Calling all pickleball enthusiasts! Prepare to serve up some goodwill at the <a href="https://www.cognitoforms.com/BeWealth/_2024PickleballRegistration">Be Assure Pickleball Tournament</a>&nbsp;on Sunday, Sept. 8 with pool play starting at 11 a.m. in Oakdale Park. According to event organizers, this inaugural tournament will be a day filled with competitive pickleball action, family-friendly activities, and community camaraderie - all in support of local charities.

The tournament will feature three levels of competition to cater to players of varying skill levels:

Bread and Butter: Perfect for families, younger players, and beginners looking to enjoy a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Classic Vlasic: Ideal for teenage and adult players with intermediate skills who are ready to compete for the title. &nbsp;Go Get It Gherkins: A challenging division for experienced players aiming for victory.

The $40 entry fee per team will cover event costs, with the remainder going to charity. Winners from each division will go home with a trophy and have the unique opportunity to choose a local charity to receive a donation from the event.

In addition to thrilling pickleball matches, participants and spectators can enjoy various yard games, music, and food trucks.

"We're thrilled to host this tournament that not only celebrates the fun of pickleball but allows us to give back to the Salina community,” said Jacob Yarochowicz, Be Assure, Vice President "With activities for all ages and skill levels, along with the chance to contribute to local charities, this event promises to be a day of fun and giving back."

<a href="https://usapickleball.org/what-is-pickleball/official-rules/rules-summary/" target="_blank">USA Pickleball Rules</a>&nbsp;will apply.&nbsp;

Secure your team’s space by registering before Sunday, September 1 2024 via the <a href="https://www.cognitoforms.com/BeWealth/_2024PickleballRegistration">registration link here.</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724176161100.png" alt="Screenshot (734).png" />
 <figcaption>Screenshot (734).png</figcaption>
 </figure>Information Courtesy Be AssuredCalling all pickleball enthusiasts! Prepare to serve up some goodwill at the <a href="https://www.cognitoforms.com/BeWealth/_2024PickleballRegistration">Be Assure Pickleball Tournament</a>&nbsp;on Sunday, Sept. 8 with pool play starting at 11 a.m. in Oakdale Park. According to event organizers, this inaugural tournament will be a day filled with competitive pickleball action, family-friendly activities, and community camaraderie - all in support of local charities.The tournament will feature three levels of competition to cater to players of varying skill levels:Bread and Butter: Perfect for families, younger players, and beginners looking to enjoy a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Classic Vlasic: Ideal for teenage and adult players with intermediate skills who are ready to compete for the title. &nbsp;Go Get It Gherkins: A challenging division for experienced players aiming for victory.The $40 entry fee per team will cover event costs, with the remainder going to charity. Winners from each division will go home with a trophy and have the unique opportunity to choose a local charity to receive a donation from the event.In addition to thrilling pickleball matches, participants and spectators can enjoy various yard games, music, and food trucks."We're thrilled to host this tournament that not only celebrates the fun of pickleball but allows us to give back to the Salina community,” said Jacob Yarochowicz, Be Assure, Vice President "With activities for all ages and skill levels, along with the chance to contribute to local charities, this event promises to be a day of fun and giving back."<a href="https://usapickleball.org/what-is-pickleball/official-rules/rules-summary/" target="_blank">USA Pickleball Rules</a>&nbsp;will apply.&nbsp;Secure your team’s space by registering before Sunday, September 1 2024 via the <a href="https://www.cognitoforms.com/BeWealth/_2024PickleballRegistration">registration link here.</a>&nbsp;

Be Assure hosts Pickleball Tournament on Sept. 8, registration open

Abilene, recognized as one of the Top 10 True Western Towns in America, will host its annual Chisholm Trail Days on August 30-31, 2024, at the historic<a href="https://oldabilenetown.org/calendar-1"> Old Abilene Town</a>.

This two-day event commemorates and celebrates the town’s role in the Wild West era, marking the first shipment of cattle from Abilene to eastern markets—a key moment in its history as one of the final destinations of the Chisholm Trail.

The festivities begin on Friday, August 30, with a variety of family-friendly activities. At 5:00 p.m., children can participate in the Kids Olympics, where they can enjoy a series of games designed to engage and entertain. Following the games, a Chuck Wagon BBQ will be served at 6:00 p.m., offering attendees a taste of authentic Western cuisine.

The evening will feature a free live music performance by local artist Jayden Evans from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. under the pavilion. Evans, known for his energetic performances, is expected to draw a crowd, making it a lively start to the weekend.

Saturday: A full Day of Western traditions

On Saturday, August 31, Old Abilene Town will be transformed into a bustling scene reminiscent of its Wild West days. From 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., attendees can immerse themselves in a variety of Western-themed activities. Highlights include a longhorn cattle parade through the streets, harkening back to the days when cattle drives through downtown Abilene were a common sight to see.

Visitors can also witness reenactments of gunfights, enjoy performances by Cancan girls, and participate in a line dance. For those looking to test their skills, a fast draw competition will be held, and the mounted color guard will display their horsemanship.

Additional attractions include stagecoach rides, kids' games, and a marketplace featuring local artisans and food vendors. The two on-site museums offer further insights into the Chisholm Trail’s history and Abilene’s development as a cattle town.

The celebration will conclude on Saturday night with a concert and dance from 8:00 to 11:00 p.m. Savannah Chestnut and the Field Hands will headline the event, performing a mix of classic and contemporary country music. Chestnut, who has opened for country star Sara Evans, is expected to deliver a memorable performance that will cap off the weekend’s festivities.

For more information about the event, visit Old Abilene Town’s website or follow them on Facebook at <a href="http://facebook.com/oldabilenetown">facebook.com/oldabilenetown</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708556571909.png" alt="Visit Abilene Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Visit Abilene Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>Visit Abilene KansasAbilene, recognized as one of the Top 10 True Western Towns in America, will host its annual Chisholm Trail Days on August 30-31, 2024, at the historic<a href="https://oldabilenetown.org/calendar-1"> Old Abilene Town</a>. This two-day event commemorates and celebrates the town’s role in the Wild West era, marking the first shipment of cattle from Abilene to eastern markets—a key moment in its history as one of the final destinations of the Chisholm Trail.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724421035353.png" alt="What began as a lightly traveled trail following the bison migration became what is known today as the Chilsom Trail. Image Courtesy Old Abilene Town" />
 <figcaption>What began as a lightly traveled trail following the bison migration became what is known today as the Chilsom Trail. Image Courtesy Old Abilene Town</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Family Fun and Entertainment on Friday</h2>The festivities begin on Friday, August 30, with a variety of family-friendly activities. At 5:00 p.m., children can participate in the Kids Olympics, where they can enjoy a series of games designed to engage and entertain. Following the games, a Chuck Wagon BBQ will be served at 6:00 p.m., offering attendees a taste of authentic Western cuisine.The evening will feature a free live music performance by local artist Jayden Evans from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. under the pavilion. Evans, known for his energetic performances, is expected to draw a crowd, making it a lively start to the weekend.<h2>Saturday: A full Day of Western traditions</h2>On Saturday, August 31, Old Abilene Town will be transformed into a bustling scene reminiscent of its Wild West days. From 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., attendees can immerse themselves in a variety of Western-themed activities. Highlights include a longhorn cattle parade through the streets, harkening back to the days when cattle drives through downtown Abilene were a common sight to see.Visitors can also witness reenactments of gunfights, enjoy performances by Cancan girls, and participate in a line dance. For those looking to test their skills, a fast draw competition will be held, and the mounted color guard will display their horsemanship.Additional attractions include stagecoach rides, kids' games, and a marketplace featuring local artisans and food vendors. The two on-site museums offer further insights into the Chisholm Trail’s history and Abilene’s development as a cattle town.<h2>Evening concert to close the celebration</h2>The celebration will conclude on Saturday night with a concert and dance from 8:00 to 11:00 p.m. Savannah Chestnut and the Field Hands will headline the event, performing a mix of classic and contemporary country music. Chestnut, who has opened for country star Sara Evans, is expected to deliver a memorable performance that will cap off the weekend’s festivities.For more information about the event, visit Old Abilene Town’s website or follow them on Facebook at <a href="http://facebook.com/oldabilenetown">facebook.com/oldabilenetown</a>.

Chisholm Trail Days celebrates Abilene’s Wild West Heritage Aug. 30-31

NWS WICHITA A heat advisory remains in effect until 8 PM CDT this evening, impacting numerous counties and cities across Central, South Central, and Southeast Kansas, including Saline, Barton, McPherson, Reno, Sedgwick, and surrounding areas.

The National Weather Service has issued this advisory due to expected heat index values reaching up to 108 degrees Fahrenheit. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity levels poses a significant risk for heat-related illnesses.

Areas affected include the counties of Russell, Lincoln, Barton, Ellsworth, Saline, Rice, McPherson, Marion, Chase, Reno, Harvey, Butler, Greenwood, Woodson, Allen, Kingman, Sedgwick, Harper, Sumner, Cowley, Elk, Wilson, Neosho, Chautauqua, Montgomery, and Labette. Cities impacted by the advisory include Wichita, Salina, Hutchinson, Great Bend, El Dorado, McPherson, Newton, Augusta, Derby, Arkansas City, Winfield, and many others.

Residents are advised to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. Checking up on relatives and neighbors is also recommended to ensure their safety during the extreme heat.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724598086517.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>NWS WICHITA A heat advisory remains in effect until 8 PM CDT this evening, impacting numerous counties and cities across Central, South Central, and Southeast Kansas, including Saline, Barton, McPherson, Reno, Sedgwick, and surrounding areas.The National Weather Service has issued this advisory due to expected heat index values reaching up to 108 degrees Fahrenheit. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity levels poses a significant risk for heat-related illnesses.Areas affected include the counties of Russell, Lincoln, Barton, Ellsworth, Saline, Rice, McPherson, Marion, Chase, Reno, Harvey, Butler, Greenwood, Woodson, Allen, Kingman, Sedgwick, Harper, Sumner, Cowley, Elk, Wilson, Neosho, Chautauqua, Montgomery, and Labette. Cities impacted by the advisory include Wichita, Salina, Hutchinson, Great Bend, El Dorado, McPherson, Newton, Augusta, Derby, Arkansas City, Winfield, and many others.Residents are advised to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. Checking up on relatives and neighbors is also recommended to ensure their safety during the extreme heat.

Heat Advisory Sunday

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

For thousands of kids across the country, the dream of taking the field on an NFL Sunday feels every bit as distant as it does captivating.

For former Ellsworth standout Kaden Davis, that dream may very well be just one catch away.

The road to the NFL has been anything but smooth for the former Bearcat. But if you ask Davis, that suits him just fine.

“It’s taken a lot of hard work, and I’ve had to overcome a lot of obstacles throughout my journey,” he said. “One thing we talked about not too long ago is the idea that hard work without faith can’t get you where you want to be, and belief in myself has been huge.”

According to the National Football Foundation, over a million high school football players suit up to play every year.

The NFL has just 1,536 spots to award on gameday rosters each season, and only about 300 of those go to incoming talents like Davis, who is currently battling it out at receiver in Detroit Lions training camp.

Grueling schedules, light pay, and long odds have ended the dreams of thousands of NFL hopefuls. But for Davis, every step forward only serves to add fuel to his competitive fire.

“It was always a dream of mine to play in the NFL,” Davis said. “That dream only gets bigger and bigger the closer you get. You can’t take any opportunities in this league for granted, and just being here in this position competing for a spot means everything.”

From a young age, the values of hard work and sticking to your dreams were impressed upon Kaden by his grandfather, Don Lock, who took his talents on the baseball diamond from Kingman Kansas, to the MLB.&nbsp;

Lock put together an impressive eight-year career with the Washington Senators, Philadelphia Phillies, and Boston Red Sox in the 1960s. The Wichita State standout racked up over 600 hits and 100 career homers, even playing alongside Yankee greats like Lou Gehrig and Mickey Mantle.

Despite posting monstrous numbers during his time in Ellsworth, Davis has had to fight for everything he’s had from the very beginning.

His lone college offer out of high school took him to Butler College in El Dorado, Kansas. That stop earned him a small handful of offers that allowed him to take his game to Division II Northwest Missouri State.

A 714-yard, 10-touchdown senior season earned him a spot in Broncos training camp in 2022, and while he didn’t advance beyond the practice squad, his time in Denver helped forge him into a faster, stronger athlete, even hungrier for his next opportunity.

&nbsp;“Competing in Denver against guys like Patrick Surtain, Justin Simmons, and Kareem Jackson really helped me take my game to the next level, and now, I feel like I can play with anybody,” Davis said.

After being released from the Broncos in January 2023, Davis found himself without any NFL offers, but once again took it upon himself to get back up and hunt down his next opportunity.

That chance would come with the Michigan Panthers of the United States Football League (USFL), where Davis shone brightly enough to draw the eye of the Arizona Cardinals, who signed him to compete for a spot at the end of that summer.

“I felt like if I could touch the field in the USFL, I’d be able to get my tape and work my way back to the NFL. Fortunately, that’s how it worked out,” he said.

That drive and determination are defining characteristics of Davis’ story, and factors that have driven him from a young age.

“Some people would describe it as stubborn, but I’ve always defined him as determined,” Kaden’s father and Ellsworth athletic director Ron Davis said. “You couldn’t tell him that he couldn’t do anything when it came to athletics. He has that built-in confidence and the desire to do whatever he sets his mind to, that’s just who he is.”

Even those not familiar with Davis’ story, may very well be familiar with the image of him streaking past the Chief's secondary on his way to score a 61-yard touchdown at Arrowhead last week, an image now seen by more than 400,000 people on the NFL’s official Twitter account.

Despite putting himself in a position most small town football players can only dream of, Davis has remained humble through it all and has kept his ties to the Ellsworth community strong.

“For a lot of people here, I think Kade has taken the big stage and made it real for them,” Ron Davis said. “This idea that you can be anything you want, whether that’s a doctor, a lawyer, or an engineer. He’s come back and talked to grade school kids, and they see him as the same guy they watched run up and down the field in high school. I think that makes those dreams feel more attainable.”

That sentiment is shared by Kaden, who can still be found running his own drills, lifting weights and practicing footwork on Ellsworth’s field during his visits home.

“Ellsworth is where I grew up,” he said. “It’s where I learned to love the game, and it’s where I competed with a lot of my friends. It means a lot to be able to represent this place, but it also means a lot to show people that if you put in the work and the faith in that anything is attainable.”

Davis will take the field for one final preseason game this Saturday when the Lions host the Pittsburgh Steelers at Noon. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724503487548.png" alt="Former Ellsworth Bearcat Kaden Davis streaks past the Chiefs defense en route to a preseason touchdown. Photo courtesy of Kaden Davis" />
 <figcaption>Former Ellsworth Bearcat Kaden Davis streaks past the Chiefs defense en route to a preseason touchdown. Photo courtesy of Kaden Davis</figcaption>
 </figure>By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostFor thousands of kids across the country, the dream of taking the field on an NFL Sunday feels every bit as distant as it does captivating.For former Ellsworth standout Kaden Davis, that dream may very well be just one catch away.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715807615208.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>The road to the NFL has been anything but smooth for the former Bearcat. But if you ask Davis, that suits him just fine.“It’s taken a lot of hard work, and I’ve had to overcome a lot of obstacles throughout my journey,” he said. “One thing we talked about not too long ago is the idea that hard work without faith can’t get you where you want to be, and belief in myself has been huge.”According to the National Football Foundation, over a million high school football players suit up to play every year.The NFL has just 1,536 spots to award on gameday rosters each season, and only about 300 of those go to incoming talents like Davis, who is currently battling it out at receiver in Detroit Lions training camp.Grueling schedules, light pay, and long odds have ended the dreams of thousands of NFL hopefuls. But for Davis, every step forward only serves to add fuel to his competitive fire.“It was always a dream of mine to play in the NFL,” Davis said. “That dream only gets bigger and bigger the closer you get. You can’t take any opportunities in this league for granted, and just being here in this position competing for a spot means everything.”From a young age, the values of hard work and sticking to your dreams were impressed upon Kaden by his grandfather, Don Lock, who took his talents on the baseball diamond from Kingman Kansas, to the MLB.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724503698264.jpeg" alt="The official MLB baseball card of Don Lock, who played 921 MLB games from 1962-1969." />
 <figcaption>The official MLB baseball card of Don Lock, who played 921 MLB games from 1962-1969.</figcaption>
 </figure>Lock put together an impressive eight-year career with the Washington Senators, Philadelphia Phillies, and Boston Red Sox in the 1960s. The Wichita State standout racked up over 600 hits and 100 career homers, even playing alongside Yankee greats like Lou Gehrig and Mickey Mantle.Despite posting monstrous numbers during his time in Ellsworth, Davis has had to fight for everything he’s had from the very beginning.His lone college offer out of high school took him to Butler College in El Dorado, Kansas. That stop earned him a small handful of offers that allowed him to take his game to Division II Northwest Missouri State.A 714-yard, 10-touchdown senior season earned him a spot in Broncos training camp in 2022, and while he didn’t advance beyond the practice squad, his time in Denver helped forge him into a faster, stronger athlete, even hungrier for his next opportunity.&nbsp;“Competing in Denver against guys like Patrick Surtain, Justin Simmons, and Kareem Jackson really helped me take my game to the next level, and now, I feel like I can play with anybody,” Davis said.After being released from the Broncos in January 2023, Davis found himself without any NFL offers, but once again took it upon himself to get back up and hunt down his next opportunity.That chance would come with the Michigan Panthers of the United States Football League (USFL), where Davis shone brightly enough to draw the eye of the Arizona Cardinals, who signed him to compete for a spot at the end of that summer.“I felt like if I could touch the field in the USFL, I’d be able to get my tape and work my way back to the NFL. Fortunately, that’s how it worked out,” he said.That drive and determination are defining characteristics of Davis’ story, and factors that have driven him from a young age.“Some people would describe it as stubborn, but I’ve always defined him as determined,” Kaden’s father and Ellsworth athletic director Ron Davis said. “You couldn’t tell him that he couldn’t do anything when it came to athletics. He has that built-in confidence and the desire to do whatever he sets his mind to, that’s just who he is.”Even those not familiar with Davis’ story, may very well be familiar with the image of him streaking past the Chief's secondary on his way to score a 61-yard touchdown at Arrowhead last week, an image now seen by more than 400,000 people on the NFL’s official Twitter account.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724503813733.png" alt="Davis celebrates his 61-yard touchdown reception during NFL preseason. Photo courtesy of Kaden Davis" />
 <figcaption>Davis celebrates his 61-yard touchdown reception during NFL preseason. Photo courtesy of Kaden Davis</figcaption>
 </figure>Not bad for a kid from central Kansas.Despite putting himself in a position most small town football players can only dream of, Davis has remained humble through it all and has kept his ties to the Ellsworth community strong.“For a lot of people here, I think Kade has taken the big stage and made it real for them,” Ron Davis said. “This idea that you can be anything you want, whether that’s a doctor, a lawyer, or an engineer. He’s come back and talked to grade school kids, and they see him as the same guy they watched run up and down the field in high school. I think that makes those dreams feel more attainable.”That sentiment is shared by Kaden, who can still be found running his own drills, lifting weights and practicing footwork on Ellsworth’s field during his visits home.“Ellsworth is where I grew up,” he said. “It’s where I learned to love the game, and it’s where I competed with a lot of my friends. It means a lot to be able to represent this place, but it also means a lot to show people that if you put in the work and the faith in that anything is attainable.”Davis will take the field for one final preseason game this Saturday when the Lions host the Pittsburgh Steelers at Noon.

Former Ellsworth star Kaden Davis chases the NFL dream

Salina Post proudly presents Flashback Friday in partnership with the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.smokyhillmuseum.org/">Smoky Hill Museum</a>. Enjoy a weekly tidbit of local history from the staff at Salina Post and the Smoky Hill Museum as we present "Salina-Flashback Fridays."

As Salina expanded in the 1950s the retail landscape faced a massive shift. What began as a bold experiment would change how Salinans shop and pave the way for the bustling South Ninth Street we know today. The catalyst for this transformation — Kraft Manor.

In 1953, the idea of moving retail stores away from the bustling downtown area seemed outrageous. Residents enjoyed the familiarity of shopping in the heart of Salina, where businesses had long thrived.

When local businessman Ernest Larson decided to build a shopping center two miles from downtown, in what was then a wheat field on South Ninth Street, it sparked widespread skepticism and concern.

The Salina Journal captured the public's discontent on August 20, 1953, referring to Kraft Manor as the "target of all the scorn." But Larson, who had seen the early signs of suburban expansion during his travels to larger cities, was convinced that the future of retail lay beyond the traditional central business district.

 Larson envisioned a new kind of shopping experience that catered to the growing number of suburbanites who wanted convenience without the hassle of navigating the hustle and bustle of downtown traffic.

As the development of Kraft Manor progressed, residents began to take notice. The once-quiet stretch of Ninth Street had neon signs lighting up the night. "When you drive southward on Ninth Street at night, you can make a selection of the stores you want to visit simply by glancing at their neon flashing sign, much as a hungry diner looks down the list of food on a menu."- Salina Journal August 20, 1958.

Kraft Manor, believed to be the first shopping center of its kind in Kansas, housed a diverse array of businesses. On the north side, shoppers could find Fredrick's House of Gifts, a beauty salon, Sampson Construction Company, The Verner Smith Agency, Padgett Electric Company, The Salina Color Center, Elmer's Furniture Store, Betty's Flowers, Roberts Shop, the Laundromat, St. Clair's Hobby Shop, Beau Franklin Store, and Hines Rothmen.

The south side boasted Morris Pharmacy, Kim's Steakhouse, Redfield Hardware, Jenkins Music Co., Ingram Appliance, Kraft Manor Barber Shop, Scott's Jewelry, a knit shop, and McConnell's Liquor. Above the shops, there were offices for 20 doctors, lawyers, and dentists, making Kraft Manor a one-stop destination for all kinds of needs.

Kraft Manor's success was undeniable, and it wasn't long before other shopping centers began to spring up outside of just downtown. The west, east, and especially the south sides of the city saw rapid development as more businesses followed in Larson's footsteps.

Today, South Ninth Street is a thriving hub of commerce, lined with businesses, restaurants, hotels, and car dealerships. Kraft Manor is the home of a massage business, an Asian market, a mobile phone store, a tanning salon, a travel center, a vape shop, sewing machine repair shop. a liquor store and barber shop.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691164615840.png" alt="Flashback Friday Logo" />
 <figcaption>Flashback Friday Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTSalina Post proudly presents Flashback Friday in partnership with the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.smokyhillmuseum.org/">Smoky Hill Museum</a>. Enjoy a weekly tidbit of local history from the staff at Salina Post and the Smoky Hill Museum as we present "Salina-Flashback Fridays."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724076144584.jpeg" alt="Kraft Manor circa. 1953" />
 <figcaption>Kraft Manor circa. 1953</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Kraft Manor</h2>As Salina expanded in the 1950s the retail landscape faced a massive shift. What began as a bold experiment would change how Salinans shop and pave the way for the bustling South Ninth Street we know today. The catalyst for this transformation — Kraft Manor.In 1953, the idea of moving retail stores away from the bustling downtown area seemed outrageous. Residents enjoyed the familiarity of shopping in the heart of Salina, where businesses had long thrived.When local businessman Ernest Larson decided to build a shopping center two miles from downtown, in what was then a wheat field on South Ninth Street, it sparked widespread skepticism and concern.The Salina Journal captured the public's discontent on August 20, 1953, referring to Kraft Manor as the "target of all the scorn." But Larson, who had seen the early signs of suburban expansion during his travels to larger cities, was convinced that the future of retail lay beyond the traditional central business district.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724173341120.png" alt="&nbsp;1950s Kraft Manor Photo Courtesy The Salina Journal – USA TODAY NETWORK" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;1950s Kraft Manor Photo Courtesy The Salina Journal – USA TODAY NETWORK</figcaption>
 </figure> Larson envisioned a new kind of shopping experience that catered to the growing number of suburbanites who wanted convenience without the hassle of navigating the hustle and bustle of downtown traffic.As the development of Kraft Manor progressed, residents began to take notice. The once-quiet stretch of Ninth Street had neon signs lighting up the night. "When you drive southward on Ninth Street at night, you can make a selection of the stores you want to visit simply by glancing at their neon flashing sign, much as a hungry diner looks down the list of food on a menu."- Salina Journal August 20, 1958.Kraft Manor, believed to be the first shopping center of its kind in Kansas, housed a diverse array of businesses. On the north side, shoppers could find Fredrick's House of Gifts, a beauty salon, Sampson Construction Company, The Verner Smith Agency, Padgett Electric Company, The Salina Color Center, Elmer's Furniture Store, Betty's Flowers, Roberts Shop, the Laundromat, St. Clair's Hobby Shop, Beau Franklin Store, and Hines Rothmen.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724435495231.jpeg" alt="Today Kraft Manor is the home of a massage business, BT Asian Market, a beauty salon, Boost Mobile, tanning salons, a travel center, vape shops, a sewing machine repair shop, a liquor store and a barber shop. Photo by NATE KING" />
 <figcaption>Today Kraft Manor is the home of a massage business, BT Asian Market, a beauty salon, Boost Mobile, tanning salons, a travel center, vape shops, a sewing machine repair shop, a liquor store and a barber shop. Photo by NATE KING</figcaption>
 </figure>The south side boasted Morris Pharmacy, Kim's Steakhouse, Redfield Hardware, Jenkins Music Co., Ingram Appliance, Kraft Manor Barber Shop, Scott's Jewelry, a knit shop, and McConnell's Liquor. Above the shops, there were offices for 20 doctors, lawyers, and dentists, making Kraft Manor a one-stop destination for all kinds of needs.Kraft Manor's success was undeniable, and it wasn't long before other shopping centers began to spring up outside of just downtown. The west, east, and especially the south sides of the city saw rapid development as more businesses followed in Larson's footsteps.Today, South Ninth Street is a thriving hub of commerce, lined with businesses, restaurants, hotels, and car dealerships. Kraft Manor is the home of a massage business, an Asian market, a mobile phone store, a tanning salon, a travel center, a vape shop, sewing machine repair shop. a liquor store and barber shop.&nbsp;

📸 Flashback Friday: Salina Post -Kraft Manor- Vol. 55

Airman First Class Luke David Obermeyer proudly graduated from Air Force Basic Military Training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX, on July 18. This milestone marks a significant achievement in his military career and reflects his dedication and hard work to protect our nation.

Luke is the son of Jeremy Obermeyer and Wendy Holley and the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Dean Obermeyer and Rocky and the late Dawn Christian.

Luke's brother, Senior Airman Jeremy Obermeyer Jr., graduated from Air Force Basic Military Training on January 27, 2022. Senior Airman Obermeyer is currently stationed at McGuire AFB, NJ, where he serves in Cyber Defense.

On behalf of Salina Post, congratulations to Airman Luke David Obermeyer and family on this significant achievement.

If you would like to recognize a living military service member in your family for their official U.S. Military recognized achievements and accomplishments Send an email to <a href="http://newstips@salinapost.com">newstips@salinapost.com</a>

We will share these accomplishments on Fridays as we receive them.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724443975850.png" alt="Airman First Class Luke David Obermeyer Courtesy Photo" />
 <figcaption>Airman First Class Luke David Obermeyer Courtesy Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedAirman First Class Luke David Obermeyer proudly graduated from Air Force Basic Military Training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX, on July 18. This milestone marks a significant achievement in his military career and reflects his dedication and hard work to protect our nation.Luke is the son of Jeremy Obermeyer and Wendy Holley and the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Dean Obermeyer and Rocky and the late Dawn Christian.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724444199259.jpeg" alt="From left to right:&nbsp;Airman First Class Luke Obermeyer and his brother Senior Airman Jeremy Obermeyer Jr.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>From left to right:&nbsp;Airman First Class Luke Obermeyer and his brother Senior Airman Jeremy Obermeyer Jr.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Luke's brother, Senior Airman Jeremy Obermeyer Jr., graduated from Air Force Basic Military Training on January 27, 2022. Senior Airman Obermeyer is currently stationed at McGuire AFB, NJ, where he serves in Cyber Defense.On behalf of Salina Post, congratulations to Airman Luke David Obermeyer and family on this significant achievement.If you would like to recognize a living military service member in your family for their official U.S. Military recognized achievements and accomplishments Send an email to <a href="http://newstips@salinapost.com">newstips@salinapost.com</a>We will share these accomplishments on Fridays as we receive them.&nbsp;

Salinan graduates from Air Force Basic training, family celebrates

On Monday through Friday, August 26th through 30th, APAC Shears of Salina will continue the City of Salina’s annual ultrathin bonded asphalt surface project. The schedule is as follows, weather permitting:

Motorists are urged to avoid work zones altogether or proceed with caution for the safety of the crews performing the work.

This type of preventative maintenance has been used to help extend the life of many roads around the State of Kansas. It consists of a thin, coarse aggregate hot mix over a special asphalt membrane similar to a chip seal but placed in one pass with a spray paver. The membrane prevents water intrusion and provides a superior bond to the old asphalt. The overlay can disperse water quickly off the surface, which reduces roadway spray from vehicles and provides greater visibility and traction in wet weather. UBAS has performed well for other cities and provides a good friction surface in wet weather.

The scheduled work mentioned above is the second installment of the City of Salina’s 2024 UBAS annual maintenance project. The full project cost of all installments totals $642,400.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689115226278.jpeg" alt="City of Salina Logo" />
 <figcaption>City of Salina Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>City of SalinaOn Monday through Friday, August 26th through 30th, APAC Shears of Salina will continue the City of Salina’s annual ultrathin bonded asphalt surface project. The schedule is as follows, weather permitting:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724442602188.png" alt="Screenshot (747).png" />
 <figcaption>Screenshot (747).png</figcaption>
 </figure>Motorists are urged to avoid work zones altogether or proceed with caution for the safety of the crews performing the work.This type of preventative maintenance has been used to help extend the life of many roads around the State of Kansas. It consists of a thin, coarse aggregate hot mix over a special asphalt membrane similar to a chip seal but placed in one pass with a spray paver. The membrane prevents water intrusion and provides a superior bond to the old asphalt. The overlay can disperse water quickly off the surface, which reduces roadway spray from vehicles and provides greater visibility and traction in wet weather. UBAS has performed well for other cities and provides a good friction surface in wet weather.The scheduled work mentioned above is the second installment of the City of Salina’s 2024 UBAS annual maintenance project. The full project cost of all installments totals $642,400.

City of Salina continues 2024 ultrathin bonded asphalt

By NATE KING Salina Post

On Friday, Aug. 23, Kansas Wesleyan University (KWU) celebrated the nearly complete six-month renovation of Shriwise Dining into the new Bieber Dining Hall. 

"We expanded into space next to it [Shriwise] so we could enlarge the space," said KWU President Matt Thompson. "We went back to the studs, gutted, started again, took walls out so we could create a whole new floor plan and experience."

The updated dining hall features electric fireplaces and newly installed tabletop seating equipped with charging outlets. According to KWU, the renovation added 2,400 square feet to the dining area.

"Last year, it just felt very dull inside the cafeteria. But now, it's super vibrant. There's a lot of new things there, and I think all the new students really like it," said Pratt, Kans. native Marleigh Bates, a sophomore at KWU majoring in biology and minoring in chemistry and health science. 

Bates, who is also on the KWU softball team, said she loves the dining hall's new hours. 

"It's really nice to be able to pick up something and go to our practice or to work around conditioning and weights. The hours are nice," Bates said. "It opens at 7:30 a.m. and then late night closes at 10 p.m. So having practice super late, it's nice just to come in here, grab dinner and not have to go buy food somewhere else."

The dining hall’s new action stations, where students can watch their food being prepared, are a significant upgrade from the previous setup.

 "It [Shriwise] was very tight and hard to get to; it was very congested, and so we wanted to bring most of the cooking out into the main part of the dining hall so people can see their food being made in front of them," Thompson said.&nbsp;

Senior Ashtun Villagomez, a biomedical chemistry major at KWU, praised the university for preparing the dining center before the fall semester in 2024.&nbsp;

 "I know for sure, Dr. Thompson and all the faculty put a lot of hard work, time, and energy into making Bieber Dining Hall," Villagomez said.&nbsp;

Thompson also emphasized KWU's commitment to sustainability and sourcing food products from local farmers and ranchers.&nbsp;

"Our plan over time is to buy more locally sourced food to provide that farm-to-table experience for our students," Thompson said. "If we can go from 10 to 15 to 20% over the next few years, that's our intent. To work with local producers who are chemical-free and regenerative, producing the best healthy food locally for our students and our faculty and staff."

As KWU grows, with over 1,000 students enrolled for the first time, the university plans to continue expanding and improving campus facilities to meet student needs.

"There is more growth and expansion in our future, building on the momentum that we have," Thompson said. "We're seeing more students want to be a part of this community, and we're ready to support them."

The new dining hall is just one example of how KWU is enhancing the student experience, providing a welcoming environment that feels like a "home away from home" for many. 

One example of the university's  investment in improving the student experience sits just across the street from Bieber Dining Center— Coyote Village. The little community consists of a series of small homes on Highland Avenue that house five students apiece. The homes are two-story structures and contain kitchenettes, laundry and other accommodations. 

"For me, coming from a small town to here, it just felt super welcoming, and the community was super nice. I had a really involved community from my hometown, so coming here, I just felt like I was at home," Bates said.

A few renovations and landscaping remain before KWU's renovation project is complete towards the end of the fall semester, said Brad Salois, assistant vice president of marketing and communications at KWU.

The dining hall renovation was made possible by a donation from KWU Class of 1971 graduate, Jeff Bieber.&nbsp;

The $3 million gift helped fund the music renovations to Sam's Chapel and renovations to the dining hall. Bieber is a former chair of KWU's Board of Trustees.

After graduating from KWU, Bieber went to work for John Deere. He was assigned to visit John Deere dealerships in Missouri, eastern Kansas and eastern Nebraska.

The John Deere brand was one familiar to Bieber. His father owned a John Deere dealership in Cheyenne Wells, CO, where he grew up. After Bieber's father announced his retirement, he asked if Jeff would be interested in purchasing the dealership. Jeff said yes.

In the Spring 2022 edition of KWU's Contact Magazine, Bieber said his classwork and extracurricular activities helped prepare him to tackle the challenge of leading a large business.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724441928617.jpeg" alt="The newly renovated Bieber Dining Center. Photo by NATE KING" />
 <figcaption>The newly renovated Bieber Dining Center. Photo by NATE KING</figcaption>
 </figure>By NATE KING Salina PostOn Friday, Aug. 23, Kansas Wesleyan University (KWU) celebrated the nearly complete six-month renovation of Shriwise Dining into the new Bieber Dining Hall. "We expanded into space next to it [Shriwise] so we could enlarge the space," said KWU President Matt Thompson. "We went back to the studs, gutted, started again, took walls out so we could create a whole new floor plan and experience."The updated dining hall features electric fireplaces and newly installed tabletop seating equipped with charging outlets. According to KWU, the renovation added 2,400 square feet to the dining area."Last year, it just felt very dull inside the cafeteria. But now, it's super vibrant. There's a lot of new things there, and I think all the new students really like it," said Pratt, Kans. native Marleigh Bates, a sophomore at KWU majoring in biology and minoring in chemistry and health science. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724442395645.jpeg" alt="The new floor plan at KWU's Bieber Dining Hall. Photo by NATE KING" />
 <figcaption>The new floor plan at KWU's Bieber Dining Hall. Photo by NATE KING</figcaption>
 </figure>Bates, who is also on the KWU softball team, said she loves the dining hall's new hours. "It's really nice to be able to pick up something and go to our practice or to work around conditioning and weights. The hours are nice," Bates said. "It opens at 7:30 a.m. and then late night closes at 10 p.m. So having practice super late, it's nice just to come in here, grab dinner and not have to go buy food somewhere else."The dining hall’s new action stations, where students can watch their food being prepared, are a significant upgrade from the previous setup. "It [Shriwise] was very tight and hard to get to; it was very congested, and so we wanted to bring most of the cooking out into the main part of the dining hall so people can see their food being made in front of them," Thompson said.&nbsp;Senior Ashtun Villagomez, a biomedical chemistry major at KWU, praised the university for preparing the dining center before the fall semester in 2024.&nbsp; "I know for sure, Dr. Thompson and all the faculty put a lot of hard work, time, and energy into making Bieber Dining Hall," Villagomez said.&nbsp;Thompson also emphasized KWU's commitment to sustainability and sourcing food products from local farmers and ranchers.&nbsp;"Our plan over time is to buy more locally sourced food to provide that farm-to-table experience for our students," Thompson said. "If we can go from 10 to 15 to 20% over the next few years, that's our intent. To work with local producers who are chemical-free and regenerative, producing the best healthy food locally for our students and our faculty and staff."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724443156658.jpeg" alt="Students and faculty grab a slice of pizza from the permanent pizza line at KWU's Bieber dining center. Dining Hall guests have the choice of pizza, a main hot dish that changes every day, a salad bar. The hot meal served on Friday, Aug. 23 included roast beef, sausage, rice and carrots. The dining hall also has gluten-free options. Photo by NATE KING" />
 <figcaption>Students and faculty grab a slice of pizza from the permanent pizza line at KWU's Bieber dining center. Dining Hall guests have the choice of pizza, a main hot dish that changes every day, a salad bar. The hot meal served on Friday, Aug. 23 included roast beef, sausage, rice and carrots. The dining hall also has gluten-free options. Photo by NATE KING</figcaption>
 </figure>As KWU grows, with over 1,000 students enrolled for the first time, the university plans to continue expanding and improving campus facilities to meet student needs."There is more growth and expansion in our future, building on the momentum that we have," Thompson said. "We're seeing more students want to be a part of this community, and we're ready to support them."The new dining hall is just one example of how KWU is enhancing the student experience, providing a welcoming environment that feels like a "home away from home" for many. One example of the university's investment in improving the student experience sits just across the street from Bieber Dining Center— Coyote Village. The little community consists of a series of small homes on Highland Avenue that house five students apiece. The homes are two-story structures and contain kitchenettes, laundry and other accommodations. "For me, coming from a small town to here, it just felt super welcoming, and the community was super nice. I had a really involved community from my hometown, so coming here, I just felt like I was at home," Bates said.A few renovations and landscaping remain before KWU's renovation project is complete towards the end of the fall semester, said Brad Salois, assistant vice president of marketing and communications at KWU.The dining hall renovation was made possible by a donation from KWU Class of 1971 graduate, Jeff Bieber.&nbsp;The $3 million gift helped fund the music renovations to Sam's Chapel and renovations to the dining hall. Bieber is a former chair of KWU's Board of Trustees.After graduating from KWU, Bieber went to work for John Deere. He was assigned to visit John Deere dealerships in Missouri, eastern Kansas and eastern Nebraska.The John Deere brand was one familiar to Bieber. His father owned a John Deere dealership in Cheyenne Wells, CO, where he grew up. After Bieber's father announced his retirement, he asked if Jeff would be interested in purchasing the dealership. Jeff said yes.In the Spring 2022 edition of KWU's Contact Magazine, Bieber said his classwork and extracurricular activities helped prepare him to tackle the challenge of leading a large business.

KWU unveils renovated dining hall after six-month overhaul

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Former 'Agriculture today' host Eric Atkinson about the celebration of 100 years of broadcasting at K-State.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/omYhIikaKGw?si=whYVGc_QQkq7COcY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Former 'Agriculture today' host Eric Atkinson about the celebration of 100 years of broadcasting at K-State.

🎤Forward Ever: Former 'Agriculture today' host Eric Atkinson

Today: Mostly sunny, with a high near 91°F. South-southeast wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Tonight: Partly cloudy, with a low around 77°F. Southeast wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Saturday: Sunny and hot, with a high near 103°F. Heat index values as high as 110%. South wind around 14 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Saturday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 81°F. South wind 13 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Sunday: Sunny and hot, with a high near 104°F. South-southwest wind around 14 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.

Sunday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 76°F.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724430044428.png" alt="NWS Weekend Weather Forecast" />
 <figcaption>NWS Weekend Weather Forecast</figcaption>
 </figure>Today: Mostly sunny, with a high near 91°F. South-southeast wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Tonight: Partly cloudy, with a low around 77°F. Southeast wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Saturday: Sunny and hot, with a high near 103°F. Heat index values as high as 110%. South wind around 14 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Saturday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 81°F. South wind 13 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Sunday: Sunny and hot, with a high near 104°F. South-southwest wind around 14 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.Sunday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 76°F.

NWS weekend weather forecast, triple digit heat

Red Fern Booksellers will host writer, poet, Oklahoma native and Cherokee Nation citizen, Brand Rackley at a&nbsp;Poetry Reading &amp; Book Signing event on&nbsp;Saturday, September 7, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Red Fern Booksellers,&nbsp;&nbsp;106 South Santa&nbsp;Fe Avenue Salina.

Rackley is active in the Oklahoma poetry community, where he performs and participates in the Center for Poets and Writers at OSU-Tulsa’s Live Lit Night Series and Red Dirt Poetry. Rackley also helps lead local poetry workshops. His new poetry collection,&nbsp;Call It What It Is, is out now. More of his work can be found in Outlaw Poets’ upcoming collection&nbsp;Words Apart: A Globe of Poetry,&nbsp;Canary Collective Magazine,&nbsp;Pink Apple Press, on <a href="http://NonDoc.com">NonDoc.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://OkieBookcast.com">OkieBookcast.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724429549963.jpeg" alt="Brand Rackley_Call It What It Is_ Front Cover_High Res (1).jpeg" />
 <figcaption>Brand Rackley_Call It What It Is_ Front Cover_High Res (1).jpeg</figcaption>
 </figure>Red Fern BooksellersRed Fern Booksellers will host writer, poet, Oklahoma native and Cherokee Nation citizen, Brand Rackley at a&nbsp;Poetry Reading &amp; Book Signing event on&nbsp;Saturday, September 7, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Red Fern Booksellers,&nbsp;&nbsp;106 South Santa&nbsp;Fe Avenue Salina.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724429577837.jpeg" alt="Writer, poet, Oklahoma native and Cherokee Nation citizen, Brand Rackley. Image Courtesy Red Fern Booksellers" />
 <figcaption>Writer, poet, Oklahoma native and Cherokee Nation citizen, Brand Rackley. Image Courtesy Red Fern Booksellers</figcaption>
 </figure>Rackley is active in the Oklahoma poetry community, where he performs and participates in the Center for Poets and Writers at OSU-Tulsa’s Live Lit Night Series and Red Dirt Poetry. Rackley also helps lead local poetry workshops. His new poetry collection,&nbsp;Call It What It Is, is out now. More of his work can be found in Outlaw Poets’ upcoming collection&nbsp;Words Apart: A Globe of Poetry,&nbsp;Canary Collective Magazine,&nbsp;Pink Apple Press, on <a href="http://NonDoc.com">NonDoc.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://OkieBookcast.com">OkieBookcast.com</a>.

Red Fern Booksellers hosting poetry reading, book signing by Brand Rackley Sept. 7

K-12 students and their guardians are invited to&nbsp;<a href="http://salina.ksu.edu/">Kansas State University Salina's</a>&nbsp;eighth annual&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/academics/youth-programs/girls-in-aviation/">Girls in Aviation Day</a>, a free event designed for girls to explore and experience the world of aviation on Saturday, Sept. 21.

The event, hosted by the student group Women in Aviation, is an opportunity for the girls to connect with other youth and professionals who are excited about aviation. Attendees will explore aviation and aerospace career opportunities, hear from a guest speaker, participate in hands-on activities like a flight simulation and a build-your-own airport project, and learn about the various fields of aviation.

The event will be from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Sept. 21 in the K-State Salina Aviation Maintenance Hangar, 245 Hein. Ave.,&nbsp;Salina.

Girls in Aviation Day at K-State Salina serves as an example of the campus's commitment to providing outreach opportunities to members of the community and its effort to gain more female representation in the aviation industry. It connects young aviation enthusiasts with students and faculty and provides immersive, hands-on experiences that demonstrate a day in the life of aerospace professionals.

"Girls in Aviation Day is important to our club, Women in Aviation, because we help inspire and empower young girls in the community to consider careers in the aviation and aerospace industries," said Laikyn LeFever, sophomore in aviation maintenance management and professional pilot,&nbsp;Pittsburg. "This day provides opportunities for girls to meet female role models, and it helps to break down stereotypes and encourages more women to enter and thrive in these traditionally male-dominated fields."

Visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/academics/youth-programs/girls-in-aviation/">Girls in Aviation Day website</a>&nbsp;to learn more.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724429186509.jpeg" alt="K-State Salina's Women in Aviation group, pictured above, is hosting its annual Girls in Aviation Day on Sept. 21, an opportunity for youth to experience aviation on campus and connect with K-State's world-class aviation program." />
 <figcaption>K-State Salina's Women in Aviation group, pictured above, is hosting its annual Girls in Aviation Day on Sept. 21, an opportunity for youth to experience aviation on campus and connect with K-State's world-class aviation program.</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted by K-State SalinaK-12 students and their guardians are invited to&nbsp;<a href="http://salina.ksu.edu/">Kansas State University Salina's</a>&nbsp;eighth annual&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/academics/youth-programs/girls-in-aviation/">Girls in Aviation Day</a>, a free event designed for girls to explore and experience the world of aviation on Saturday, Sept. 21.The event, hosted by the student group Women in Aviation, is an opportunity for the girls to connect with other youth and professionals who are excited about aviation. Attendees will explore aviation and aerospace career opportunities, hear from a guest speaker, participate in hands-on activities like a flight simulation and a build-your-own airport project, and learn about the various fields of aviation.The event will be from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Sept. 21 in the K-State Salina Aviation Maintenance Hangar, 245 Hein. Ave.,&nbsp;Salina.Girls in Aviation Day at K-State Salina serves as an example of the campus's commitment to providing outreach opportunities to members of the community and its effort to gain more female representation in the aviation industry. It connects young aviation enthusiasts with students and faculty and provides immersive, hands-on experiences that demonstrate a day in the life of aerospace professionals."Girls in Aviation Day is important to our club, Women in Aviation, because we help inspire and empower young girls in the community to consider careers in the aviation and aerospace industries," said Laikyn LeFever, sophomore in aviation maintenance management and professional pilot,&nbsp;Pittsburg. "This day provides opportunities for girls to meet female role models, and it helps to break down stereotypes and encourages more women to enter and thrive in these traditionally male-dominated fields."Visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/academics/youth-programs/girls-in-aviation/">Girls in Aviation Day website</a>&nbsp;to learn more.&nbsp;&nbsp;

K-12 students invited to Girls in Aviation Day at K-State Salina

By SALINA POST A Salina man died in an accident just after 10:30 p.m. Thursday in Saline County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 GMC Sierra 1500 driven by&nbsp; Brandon L&nbsp;Doherty, 37, Salina, was westbound on Kansas 143 just west of U.S. 81&nbsp; at a high rate of speed.&nbsp; The driver lost control of the pickup. It struck a guardrail and overturned into the north ditch.

Doherty was pronounced dead at the scene. He was not wearing seat belt, according to the KHP.

By SALINA POST A Salina man died in an accident just after 10:30 p.m. Thursday in Saline County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 GMC Sierra 1500 driven by&nbsp; Brandon L&nbsp;Doherty, 37, Salina, was westbound on Kansas 143 just west of U.S. 81&nbsp; at a high rate of speed.&nbsp; The driver lost control of the pickup. It struck a guardrail and overturned into the north ditch.Doherty was pronounced dead at the scene. He was not wearing seat belt, according to the KHP.

Salina man dies after pickup overturns

Hello and happy Friday, everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine…

On Thursday, Backup quarterback Tyson Bagent ran for a touchdown on the opening drive of the Bears' game against Kansas City, as Chicago went on to beat the Chiefs 34-21 in a preseason finale in which both teams sat nearly all their starters.

A scary scene briefly halted the game when Bears cornerback Douglas Coleman III made a tackle along the Kansas City sideline and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bears-chiefs-preseason-21d6f501235875a2cd24e55bd90b0718">was left motionless on the ground</a>. He was tended to by doctors as players from both teams took a knee, and eventually was immobilized on a stretcher and driven out of Arrowhead Stadium. Coleman is still being evaluated in a Kansas CIty Hospital

Speaking of the Chiefs, on Thursday <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4241385/creed-humphrey">Creed Humphrey</a>&nbsp;became the highest-paid center in NFL history on Thursday, agreeing to a four-year contract extension with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/team/_/name/kc/kansas-city-chiefs">Kansas City Chiefs</a> worth $72M

Sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter the deal includes $50M guarenteed.

In 2023, Humphrey ranked second among the NFL's interior offensive linemen in pass block win rate at 98.8%. Ahead of him was his Chiefs teammate, guard&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/2577773/joe-thuney">Joe Thuney</a>.

And finally, K-State women’s basketball announced its complete non-conference schedule for the upcoming 2024-25 season on Thursday.

The slate features 10 home games, including a visit from Big East foe Creighton, participation in the 2024 Ball Dawgs Classic in Nevada, a visit to Texas A&amp;M and a neutral-site matchup against Middle Tennessee State

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y2lLbEo8QR8"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY SALINA POST(Transcript)Hello and happy Friday, everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine…_________On Thursday, Backup quarterback Tyson Bagent ran for a touchdown on the opening drive of the Bears' game against Kansas City, as Chicago went on to beat the Chiefs 34-21 in a preseason finale in which both teams sat nearly all their starters.A scary scene briefly halted the game when Bears cornerback Douglas Coleman III made a tackle along the Kansas City sideline and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bears-chiefs-preseason-21d6f501235875a2cd24e55bd90b0718">was left motionless on the ground</a>. He was tended to by doctors as players from both teams took a knee, and eventually was immobilized on a stretcher and driven out of Arrowhead Stadium. Coleman is still being evaluated in a Kansas CIty Hospital_________Speaking of the Chiefs, on Thursday <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4241385/creed-humphrey">Creed Humphrey</a>&nbsp;became the highest-paid center in NFL history on Thursday, agreeing to a four-year contract extension with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/team/_/name/kc/kansas-city-chiefs">Kansas City Chiefs</a> worth $72MSources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter the deal includes $50M guarenteed.In 2023, Humphrey ranked second among the NFL's interior offensive linemen in pass block win rate at 98.8%. Ahead of him was his Chiefs teammate, guard&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/2577773/joe-thuney">Joe Thuney</a>._________And finally, K-State women’s basketball announced its complete non-conference schedule for the upcoming 2024-25 season on Thursday.The slate features 10 home games, including a visit from Big East foe Creighton, participation in the 2024 Ball Dawgs Classic in Nevada, a visit to Texas A&amp;M and a neutral-site matchup against Middle Tennessee State_________

910 KINA Sports Headlines — August 23

Precipitation data courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/">CoCoRaHS</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">The National Weather Service</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Following precipitation events, Salina Post will update this page with precipitation totals.&nbsp;

As of 08/23/2024 at 8:32 a.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648176291467.jpeg" alt="CoCoRaHS logo.jpg" />
 <figcaption>CoCoRaHS logo.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTPrecipitation data courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/">CoCoRaHS</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">The National Weather Service</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following precipitation events, Salina Post will update this page with precipitation totals.&nbsp;24-Hour Precipitation Totals Reported 4:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m.As of 08/23/2024 at 8:32 a.m.Salina&nbsp;—0.29 inchesEllsworth — 0.17 inchesKanopolis&nbsp;— 0.09 inchesLindsborg — 0.71 inchesAbilene — 0.06 inchesClay Center — 0.06 inchesMinneapolis — 0.18 inchesBeverly — 0.47 inchesMcPherson — 0.22 inchesGypsum — 0.07 inchesInman — 0.30 inchesPeabody — 1.13 inchesAssaria — 0.94 inches

CoCoRaHS 24-hour rain totals

Beginning Friday, August 23, the Salina Municipal Solid Waste Landfill will initiate construction activities that will impact the mainline asphalt road west of the landfill scale house. This construction is expected to continue for approximately two months.

To ensure the safety of our customers, construction company employees, and equipment, the following measures will be implemented:

Signage, flagmen, and additional traffic signals will be strategically placed along the affected route. We urge all visitors to adhere strictly to traffic rules and remain vigilant around construction areas. 

The City of Salina and the Landfill Staff sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding during this period of necessary improvements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689115226278.jpeg" alt="City of Salina" />
 <figcaption>City of Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>City of SalinaBeginning Friday, August 23, the Salina Municipal Solid Waste Landfill will initiate construction activities that will impact the mainline asphalt road west of the landfill scale house. This construction is expected to continue for approximately two months.To ensure the safety of our customers, construction company employees, and equipment, the following measures will be implemented:Signage, flagmen, and additional traffic signals will be strategically placed along the affected route. We urge all visitors to adhere strictly to traffic rules and remain vigilant around construction areas. The City of Salina and the Landfill Staff sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding during this period of necessary improvements.

Salina announces temporary traffic measures at Salina Municipal Landfill

The Local Food Works Foundation is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated annual event, Feast on the Fe, scheduled for September 14, 2024.

The culinary celebration will take place in downtown Salina, on the 200 S. Block of Santa Fe Avenue. The event brings together food enthusiasts, local farmers, and renowned chefs for an evening dedicated to showcasing the finest local produce and culinary talent.&nbsp;

Feast on the Fe is a unique opportunity for guests to indulge in a gourmet experience while supporting the Foundation’s mission to strengthen the local food system.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/53f83985-bb6f-4e39-a213-fbd2c83f7c60">Salina South High culinary interns prepare for Feast on the Fe</a>

Proceeds from the event will fund our annual grant, which supports local farmers, chefs, and food producers, helping to sustain and enhance the availability of fresh, local food in Saline County.&nbsp;

“We are so excited to showcase five local chefs, one of which will be a new chef from Lindsborg, KS along with the USD 305 culinary students, led by instructor Linda Edson” said Kirsty Hartley, board president.

The event will feature a stellar lineup of five distinguished local chefs, each preparing an exquisite menu that highlights the best of our region’s seasonal ingredients. Attendees will enjoy a series of meticulously crafted courses, each paired with locally sourced beverages, providing a truly immersive dining experience.&nbsp;

“We are also asking all attendees to bring canned fruit or vegetables for the first annual Feast on the Fe food drive to benefit the Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank. We wanted to do more to help the food insecurity issue seen in Salina and thought this would be a good place to start” Hartley said. There will be boxes at both check-in tables, on the north and south side of Santa Fe, to put your canned food donations.&nbsp;

Time: Check-in starts at 5pm, Cash Bar opens at 5:30pm, Dinner 6-8pm&nbsp;

Location: 200 S. Block of Santa Fe between Walnut St and Mulberry St&nbsp;

Tickets for Feast on the Fe will be available for purchase starting September 1, 2024. Guests can secure their seats through Eventbrite or by visiting our website at <a href="http://www.localfoodworksfoundation.org">www.localfoodworksfoundation.org</a> and following the ticketing link.&nbsp;

Join us for an evening of culinary excellence and community spirit, as we celebrate the rich flavors of Saline County and support the vital work of local food producers. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a memorable event that makes a meaningful difference.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724344003986.jpeg" alt="The Eighth Annual Feast on the Fe will take place in Downtown Salina on Sept. 14. Courtesy Photo" />
 <figcaption>The Eighth Annual Feast on the Fe will take place in Downtown Salina on Sept. 14. Courtesy Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Local Food Works Foundation is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated annual event, Feast on the Fe, scheduled for September 14, 2024.The culinary celebration will take place in downtown Salina, on the 200 S. Block of Santa Fe Avenue. The event brings together food enthusiasts, local farmers, and renowned chefs for an evening dedicated to showcasing the finest local produce and culinary talent.&nbsp;Feast on the Fe is a unique opportunity for guests to indulge in a gourmet experience while supporting the Foundation’s mission to strengthen the local food system.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/53f83985-bb6f-4e39-a213-fbd2c83f7c60">Salina South High culinary interns prepare for Feast on the Fe</a>Proceeds from the event will fund our annual grant, which supports local farmers, chefs, and food producers, helping to sustain and enhance the availability of fresh, local food in Saline County.&nbsp;“We are so excited to showcase five local chefs, one of which will be a new chef from Lindsborg, KS along with the USD 305 culinary students, led by instructor Linda Edson” said Kirsty Hartley, board president.The event will feature a stellar lineup of five distinguished local chefs, each preparing an exquisite menu that highlights the best of our region’s seasonal ingredients. Attendees will enjoy a series of meticulously crafted courses, each paired with locally sourced beverages, providing a truly immersive dining experience.&nbsp;“We are also asking all attendees to bring canned fruit or vegetables for the first annual Feast on the Fe food drive to benefit the Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank. We wanted to do more to help the food insecurity issue seen in Salina and thought this would be a good place to start” Hartley said. There will be boxes at both check-in tables, on the north and south side of Santa Fe, to put your canned food donations.&nbsp;<h2>Event Details:&nbsp;</h2>Date: September 14, 2024&nbsp;Time: Check-in starts at 5pm, Cash Bar opens at 5:30pm, Dinner 6-8pm&nbsp;Location: 200 S. Block of Santa Fe between Walnut St and Mulberry St&nbsp;Seats Available: 200&nbsp;Tickets for Feast on the Fe will be available for purchase starting September 1, 2024. Guests can secure their seats through Eventbrite or by visiting our website at <a href="http://www.localfoodworksfoundation.org">www.localfoodworksfoundation.org</a> and following the ticketing link.&nbsp;Join us for an evening of culinary excellence and community spirit, as we celebrate the rich flavors of Saline County and support the vital work of local food producers. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a memorable event that makes a meaningful difference.&nbsp;

Local Food Works Foundation announces eighth annual Feast on the Fe

<a href="https://salinatheatre.com/">Theatre Salina</a> warned the public via a social media post on Thursday about the growing threat of ticket scams targeting their productions, including the theatre's upcoming highly anticipated Disney's The Little Mermaid.

Theater Salina emphasized the importance of purchasing tickets exclusively through their official website or their authorized ticketing provider, etix.

Tickets can be purchased online at <a href="http://salinatheatre.com">salinatheatre.com</a>&nbsp;or by calling the theatre's box office at&nbsp;(785) 827-3033. Box office hours are&nbsp;

11:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The theater highlighted that any tickets acquired through sources other than their designated ticket portal could be invalid. This warning extends to individuals who may appear to be selling tickets on social media platforms, even in cases where the seller claims they are unable to attend the show and are looking to transfer their tickets.

Theatre Salina said it strongly advises potential ticket buyers to protect themselves by verifying the legitimacy of the ticket purchase process. The theater encourages anyone with doubts to contact their box office directly for confirmation before making any transactions.

For secure ticket purchases, patrons are directed to use the link provided on the Theatre Salina website: <a href="http://salinatheatre.com/tickets">salinatheatre.com/tickets</a>. Additionally, the box office can be contacted at 785-827-3033 for further assistance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724343428283.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy Theatre Salina" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy Theatre Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POST<a href="https://salinatheatre.com/">Theatre Salina</a> warned the public via a social media post on Thursday about the growing threat of ticket scams targeting their productions, including the theatre's upcoming highly anticipated Disney's The Little Mermaid.Theater Salina emphasized the importance of purchasing tickets exclusively through their official website or their authorized ticketing provider, etix.Tickets can be purchased online at <a href="http://salinatheatre.com">salinatheatre.com</a>&nbsp;or by calling the theatre's box office at&nbsp;(785) 827-3033. Box office hours are&nbsp;

11:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.The theater highlighted that any tickets acquired through sources other than their designated ticket portal could be invalid. This warning extends to individuals who may appear to be selling tickets on social media platforms, even in cases where the seller claims they are unable to attend the show and are looking to transfer their tickets.Theatre Salina said it strongly advises potential ticket buyers to protect themselves by verifying the legitimacy of the ticket purchase process. The theater encourages anyone with doubts to contact their box office directly for confirmation before making any transactions.For secure ticket purchases, patrons are directed to use the link provided on the Theatre Salina website: <a href="http://salinatheatre.com/tickets">salinatheatre.com/tickets</a>. Additionally, the box office can be contacted at 785-827-3033 for further assistance.

Theatre Salina warns of ticketing scams — reminds patrons 'only purchase through etix'

By JULIA DEBES Kansas Wheat

Long, long ago in a land far, far away, bread wheat came into existence. Researchers are still unlocking the secrets of the wild relatives of that ancient wheat to improve modern-day varieties - and a collection of seeds housed on Kimball Avenue in Manhattan is key to this work.&nbsp;

Bikram Gill and John Raupp with K-State’s Wheat Genetics Resource Center sat down with Aaron Harries, Kansas Wheat vice president of research and operations, on a recent episode of the “Wheat’s on Your Mind” podcast to share wheat’s origin story and how the collection continues to provide valuable genetic resources for modern wheat breeding programs.&nbsp;

To understand this potential, one must go way back to the origin of wheat as a species in the Fertile Crescent - where the crop helped start human civilization more than 10,000 years ago. At that time, wheat did not yet exist. It would take two major evolutionary events that mixed three different grass species to make the first bread wheat genome.&nbsp;

The first stop on this timeline was the merger of two wild ancestors that resulted in the eventual creation of wild emmer wheat (genome formula AB).&nbsp;

“As a species in nature, nature produced bread wheat around half a million years ago,” Gill said. “Two grasses, they happened to have fun. They hybridized - and that produced bread wheat.”&nbsp;

The second stop on the timeline came more than 10,000 years ago when that wild emmer wheat was combined with an ancient goatgrass (genome formula D). That genetic mix resulted in the first crop cultivated by humankind.&nbsp;

“In some farmer’s field, some goat grass hybridized with emmer wheat, which originated in Syria,” Gill said. “And that farmer was smart enough, he selected that plant. And that’s our bread wheat.”&nbsp;

From there, Mother Nature kept mixing in wild wheat relatives to this new bread wheat - and farmers selected the most successful versions to plant again.&nbsp;

“After wheat originated, these wild wheats kept cross-hybridizing with domesticated wheat,” Gill said. “There were no breeders, but nature was doing breeding for the first 10,000 years. They were cross-pollinating and farmers were selecting new types out of that.”&nbsp;

This origin story is important because it explains why the wheat genome is so complex. Wheat is a hexaploid, meaning it has six sets of seven chromosomes. Most genes in wheat exist in three copies - one each from those A, B and D genomes. As a result, there are 16 billion DNA letters in the wheat genome - the human genome has three billion letters - meaning you could type out the genetic code of wheat in 12-point font and the type will go around the world.&nbsp;

This triplication and redundancy make wheat very hard to genetically analyze.&nbsp;

“It’s essentially three different genomes coexisting in one,” Gill said. “It’s like three married people living in one house. Each can be independent, so that causes the problem. How do you sleep in one room without messing it up? Wheat is a very elegant genetic system.”&nbsp;

While hard to pick through, that complexity also makes wheat a more durable crop.&nbsp;

“This is called genetic buffering,” Gill said. “It’s almost like there are three soldiers or three genes. So, one goes out, the second one is there. The second goes out, the third one is there. Wheat can tolerate the extremes of environment because of this buffering caused by the redundancy of the genes.”&nbsp;

With this understanding of the origin and complexity of wheat - how does that relate to wheat breeding programs? Fast forward to 1979 when Gill did a postdoctoral fellowship at K-State and was first exposed to the genetic stocks used to map genes and breed wheat. He took that experience with him to his second postdoctoral fellowship at the University of California-Riverside, where he was blown away by the genetic diversity of a collection of wild weeds.&nbsp;

Gill started to form a vision of a resource that would combine the two - a collection of wild wheat relatives with unlocked genetic potential and a wheat breeding program that could replicate Mother Nature’s process of pulling in traits to make better varieties for farmers to plant.&nbsp;

In 1980, Gill wrote a grant and flew on a small plane to Hutchinson, the then-headquarters of the Kansas Wheat Commission to pitch his idea.&nbsp;

“They had never funded K-State until then,” Gill said. “I presented my vision - we want to establish the Wheat Genetics Resource Center because that’s where we’re going next. A yield bump is going to come from this because of that genetic diversity. Nobody knew what wild wheats were in the Great Plains at that time. I said I know that this is where the next big evolution is.”&nbsp;

Backed by approval from K-State’s wheat breeder at the time, the commissioners agreed to provide the seed money. Gill gathered an initial collection of 500 genetic lines, including seeds from collections in Japan, Israel, Russia and other countries. He immediately dove into early projects identifying Hessian fly resistance and leaf rust resistance in lines of Aegilops tauschii (Tausch's goatgrass), which was relatively easy to cross into wheat.&nbsp;

“We are just doing what happened in nature,” Gill said. “That’s how bread wheat arose, so we are essentially repeating the same process except we’re doing it in the lab.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724161348857.png" alt="Kansas Wheat" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Wheat</figcaption>
 </figure>By JULIA DEBES Kansas WheatLong, long ago in a land far, far away, bread wheat came into existence. Researchers are still unlocking the secrets of the wild relatives of that ancient wheat to improve modern-day varieties - and a collection of seeds housed on Kimball Avenue in Manhattan is key to this work.&nbsp;Bikram Gill and John Raupp with K-State’s Wheat Genetics Resource Center sat down with Aaron Harries, Kansas Wheat vice president of research and operations, on a recent episode of the “Wheat’s on Your Mind” podcast to share wheat’s origin story and how the collection continues to provide valuable genetic resources for modern wheat breeding programs.&nbsp;To understand this potential, one must go way back to the origin of wheat as a species in the Fertile Crescent - where the crop helped start human civilization more than 10,000 years ago. At that time, wheat did not yet exist. It would take two major evolutionary events that mixed three different grass species to make the first bread wheat genome.&nbsp;The first stop on this timeline was the merger of two wild ancestors that resulted in the eventual creation of wild emmer wheat (genome formula AB).&nbsp;“As a species in nature, nature produced bread wheat around half a million years ago,” Gill said. “Two grasses, they happened to have fun. They hybridized - and that produced bread wheat.”&nbsp;The second stop on the timeline came more than 10,000 years ago when that wild emmer wheat was combined with an ancient goatgrass (genome formula D). That genetic mix resulted in the first crop cultivated by humankind.&nbsp;“In some farmer’s field, some goat grass hybridized with emmer wheat, which originated in Syria,” Gill said. “And that farmer was smart enough, he selected that plant. And that’s our bread wheat.”&nbsp;From there, Mother Nature kept mixing in wild wheat relatives to this new bread wheat - and farmers selected the most successful versions to plant again.&nbsp;“After wheat originated, these wild wheats kept cross-hybridizing with domesticated wheat,” Gill said. “There were no breeders, but nature was doing breeding for the first 10,000 years. They were cross-pollinating and farmers were selecting new types out of that.”&nbsp;This origin story is important because it explains why the wheat genome is so complex. Wheat is a hexaploid, meaning it has six sets of seven chromosomes. Most genes in wheat exist in three copies - one each from those A, B and D genomes. As a result, there are 16 billion DNA letters in the wheat genome - the human genome has three billion letters - meaning you could type out the genetic code of wheat in 12-point font and the type will go around the world.&nbsp;This triplication and redundancy make wheat very hard to genetically analyze.&nbsp;“It’s essentially three different genomes coexisting in one,” Gill said. “It’s like three married people living in one house. Each can be independent, so that causes the problem. How do you sleep in one room without messing it up? Wheat is a very elegant genetic system.”&nbsp;While hard to pick through, that complexity also makes wheat a more durable crop.&nbsp;“This is called genetic buffering,” Gill said. “It’s almost like there are three soldiers or three genes. So, one goes out, the second one is there. The second goes out, the third one is there. Wheat can tolerate the extremes of environment because of this buffering caused by the redundancy of the genes.”&nbsp;With this understanding of the origin and complexity of wheat - how does that relate to wheat breeding programs? Fast forward to 1979 when Gill did a postdoctoral fellowship at K-State and was first exposed to the genetic stocks used to map genes and breed wheat. He took that experience with him to his second postdoctoral fellowship at the University of California-Riverside, where he was blown away by the genetic diversity of a collection of wild weeds.&nbsp;Gill started to form a vision of a resource that would combine the two - a collection of wild wheat relatives with unlocked genetic potential and a wheat breeding program that could replicate Mother Nature’s process of pulling in traits to make better varieties for farmers to plant.&nbsp;In 1980, Gill wrote a grant and flew on a small plane to Hutchinson, the then-headquarters of the Kansas Wheat Commission to pitch his idea.&nbsp;“They had never funded K-State until then,” Gill said. “I presented my vision - we want to establish the Wheat Genetics Resource Center because that’s where we’re going next. A yield bump is going to come from this because of that genetic diversity. Nobody knew what wild wheats were in the Great Plains at that time. I said I know that this is where the next big evolution is.”&nbsp;Backed by approval from K-State’s wheat breeder at the time, the commissioners agreed to provide the seed money. Gill gathered an initial collection of 500 genetic lines, including seeds from collections in Japan, Israel, Russia and other countries. He immediately dove into early projects identifying Hessian fly resistance and leaf rust resistance in lines of Aegilops tauschii (Tausch's goatgrass), which was relatively easy to cross into wheat.&nbsp;“We are just doing what happened in nature,” Gill said. “That’s how bread wheat arose, so we are essentially repeating the same process except we’re doing it in the lab.”&nbsp;Raupp has served as the curator of the Wheat Genetics Resource Center since August 1980. He noted the collection is up to about 4,200 lines, ranging from Aegilops tauschii which grows anywhere from Turkey to western China to one species that is only found in the Sinai peninsula of Egypt and a little bit into Israel.&nbsp;It’s his job to maintain the stocks of this genetic material, making sure scientists and breeders have access to the seeds they need to complete projects. That doesn’t mean these seeds only sit in a gigantic refrigerator. To maintain their integrity, the seeds must be planted, grown either in a greenhouse or an outdoor plot and often hand-harvested to replenish seeds before they are no longer viable.&nbsp;“While they’re easy to grow, they require a lot of time to clean and maintain,” Raupp said. “My biggest job is just maintaining the collection so we have enough seed on hand to provide the researchers so that they can do their work.”Today, Raupp noted he annually fulfills about 100 different requests for those seeds from researchers in neighboring states to those in countries on the other side of the planet. Aided by modern research techniques like genetic sequencing and CRISPR, these researchers continue to unlock more of that ancient genetic potential to improve the wheat varieties of tomorrow - from sawfly resistance to higher protein content to how root morphologies aid drought resistance.&nbsp;“It’s been a gold mine,” Harries said. “You go treasure hunting in this collection that you’ve created here. A lot of the traits that we have for stripe rust, leaf rust and viral traits all come from those wild wheat relatives. And that work is far from over.”&nbsp;Learn more about wheat’s origin story and K-State’s Wheat Genetics Resource Center by listening to the full “Wheat’s on Your Mind” podcast episode at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001JuOekSeJQqvEsujwaZSZNxLe0ZyeBIEgstQoJpvLmFuUXIi29D2C02uDZ499BedEw7UHcLBpWTLslTbhkJdw5X3g96NAyiBolKzO5SNJTvA95NJFULCjpFVGT9lR8dAbhKRaBUBHKt52n3u7DvwBXuGjC4KCcJoj&amp;c=Z6hOwKg7yAzjOfPkqpA97z8KZYYk4R6Q27NRbpwlgmq3PL341IqdAg==&amp;ch=9hbAooPnAROPBq9viPE2wdFiy7wtc73joU1SH152VClPJhiQOrkXAg==" target="_blank">WheatsOnYourMind.com</a>.&nbsp;