In celebration of Arbor Day this Friday, April 26, Kansas Wesleyan University will hold its sixth annual Arbor Day tree-planting ceremony by planting three trees on campus and a fruit tree in the adjacent community garden.

The public is invited to the Outdoor Living Room on campus at 1 p.m. to participate. Students, faculty and staff of KWU, and City of Salina Parks and Forestry workers will assist with the planting.

Friday’s plantings will put KWU on schedule for its sixth consecutive year of Tree Campus Higher Education recognition.

The KWU Tree Advisory Committee, composed of students, community members and faculty, has been working during the past six years on a tree inventory to identify and tag the more than 230 trees on campus.

Trees create biodiversity, provide countless ecosystem services, enhance property value and improve our quality of life and health. The city of Salina is also recognized as a long time Tree City USA Community.

For more information on the Arbor Day Foundation, visit www.arborday.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713969100395.jpeg" alt="KWU Tree Planting" />
 <figcaption>KWU Tree Planting</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedIn celebration of Arbor Day this Friday, April 26, Kansas Wesleyan University will hold its sixth annual Arbor Day tree-planting ceremony by planting three trees on campus and a fruit tree in the adjacent community garden.The public is invited to the Outdoor Living Room on campus at 1 p.m. to participate. Students, faculty and staff of KWU, and City of Salina Parks and Forestry workers will assist with the planting.Friday’s plantings will put KWU on schedule for its sixth consecutive year of Tree Campus Higher Education recognition.The KWU Tree Advisory Committee, composed of students, community members and faculty, has been working during the past six years on a tree inventory to identify and tag the more than 230 trees on campus.Trees create biodiversity, provide countless ecosystem services, enhance property value and improve our quality of life and health. The city of Salina is also recognized as a long time Tree City USA Community.For more information on the Arbor Day Foundation, visit www.arborday.org.

Kansas Wesleyan University to celebrate Arbor Day Friday

Adelaide Easter, senior in agricultural economics and global food systems leadership with minors in leadership and international agriculture,&nbsp;Salina, is Kansas State University's 39th&nbsp;<a href="https://www.truman.gov/">Harry S. Truman scholar</a>.

The Truman scholarship is a highly competitive national award that provides up to $30,000 for graduate studies, leadership training, career counseling, and special internship and fellowship opportunities in the federal government.

Truman scholars demonstrate outstanding leadership potential, a commitment to a career in government or the nonprofit sector, and academic excellence.According to the Truman Foundation, 60 scholarships were awarded this year from a candidate pool of 709 students nominated by 285 colleges and universities.

"Adelaide epitomizes K-State's commitment to excellence and service," said President Richard Linton. "Her dedication to addressing global food insecurity and promoting agricultural equity embodies the essence of our land-grant mission. Adelaide represents the next generation of leaders who will drive positive change, and we are immensely proud of her and confident in her ability to make a meaningful impact on the world."

Easter will attend the Truman Foundation's 2025 Summer Institute program, where she hopes to work as a Zero Hunger Intern for the Congressional Hunger Center in Washington, D.C., to address food insecurity. Through the summer institute, she will also participate in a seminar series focused on domestic and global hunger, advocacy, and the root causes of hunger and poverty.

 Easter said to end the summer, she will complete a research project examining hunger in her local community and present potential solutions to address the problem.In the summer of 2024, she will participate in Truman Leadership Week in Liberty, Missouri, where she will meet other Truman scholars. She will also work with K-State Research and Extension as a Local Food Fellow to establish a food recovery network at K-State.

"I am passionate about combating global hunger and committed to meeting basic needs through advocacy for education and innovation," Easter said. "I am dedicated to working to build capacity that creates long-term solutions for food security and agriculture worldwide."Before graduate study, she plans to gain field experience working in the policy and development sector, potentially with the Food Research and Action Center, the World Food Programme or the Peace Corps.

Easter intends to pursue a master's in food and agriculture law to work at the intersection of policy and development, making agriculture more equitable and addressing the root causes of hunger.She is interested in one day being a U.S. Foreign Service Officer for the U.S. Agency for International Development or serving on the congressional Senate Agriculture Committee."I want to do on-the-ground work involving intentionally and ethically interacting in communities to establish sustainable projects," Easter said.

"Ultimately, I hope to work towards addressing global food insecurity through making agriculture more accessible to women, people of color, and small-holder farmers."She has already made strides toward this goal. Through 4-H, she presented the problem of feeding an estimated 10 billion people by 2050 to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. As a Flinchbaugh Food and Agriculture Policy Fellow, she interned at the state and federal levels, including with Kansas Grain Sorghum, National Sorghum Producers and U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran's office, furthering her knowledge of agricultural policy and international food assistance issues.

Easter holds leadership positions in several campus organizations, including director of leadership programming, Blue Key Senior Honorary; director of stakeholders and public relations, Food Security Scholars; student coordinator, Global Food Systems Leadership Program; founder and president, Student Basic Needs Coalition; and For Sophomores Only co-chair, Student Alumni Board.

She is a member of the Staley School of Leadership Ambassadors, the Cats' Cupboard Advisory Board, and the University Honors Program. Easter is also a Connected 'Cat intern for the president's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/">regional community visits</a>.Easter's undergraduate research experience includes an in-depth desk review analyzing Kenyan women farmers' barriers to success for the Global Food Systems Leadership in Action course.

She also traveled to Orvieto, Italy, for the Culture and Context in Leadership program, where she learned about local and global advocacy and completed a research paper about how food insecurity disproportionately affects marginalized groups.The daughter of Monica Bachamp, D.O., and Jeff Easter, Adelaide is a graduate of Sacred Heart Junior-Senior High School in Salina."

As a Truman scholar, I am excited to join a community of changemakers making progress on all issues across the world, and I cannot wait for the experiences I will gain being a part of this network," Easter said.

Kansas State University students interested in applying for nationally competitive scholarships should contact Beth Powers, director of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/leadership/scholardevelopmentandundergraduateresearch/">Scholar Development and Undergraduate Research</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/leadership/scholardevelopmentandundergraduateresearch/scholardevelopment/national-scholarships/">Office of Nationally Competitive Scholarships</a>, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:bethpowers@k-state.edu">bethpowers@k-state.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713967256052.png" alt="Adelaide Easter, senior in agricultural economics and global food systems leadership, is K-State's 39th Harry S. Truman scholar." />
 <figcaption>Adelaide Easter, senior in agricultural economics and global food systems leadership, is K-State's 39th Harry S. Truman scholar.</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;MALORIE SOUGÉYAdelaide Easter, senior in agricultural economics and global food systems leadership with minors in leadership and international agriculture,&nbsp;Salina, is Kansas State University's 39th&nbsp;<a href="https://www.truman.gov/">Harry S. Truman scholar</a>.The Truman scholarship is a highly competitive national award that provides up to $30,000 for graduate studies, leadership training, career counseling, and special internship and fellowship opportunities in the federal government.Truman scholars demonstrate outstanding leadership potential, a commitment to a career in government or the nonprofit sector, and academic excellence.According to the Truman Foundation, 60 scholarships were awarded this year from a candidate pool of 709 students nominated by 285 colleges and universities."Adelaide epitomizes K-State's commitment to excellence and service," said President Richard Linton. "Her dedication to addressing global food insecurity and promoting agricultural equity embodies the essence of our land-grant mission. Adelaide represents the next generation of leaders who will drive positive change, and we are immensely proud of her and confident in her ability to make a meaningful impact on the world."Easter will attend the Truman Foundation's 2025 Summer Institute program, where she hopes to work as a Zero Hunger Intern for the Congressional Hunger Center in Washington, D.C., to address food insecurity. Through the summer institute, she will also participate in a seminar series focused on domestic and global hunger, advocacy, and the root causes of hunger and poverty. Easter said to end the summer, she will complete a research project examining hunger in her local community and present potential solutions to address the problem.In the summer of 2024, she will participate in Truman Leadership Week in Liberty, Missouri, where she will meet other Truman scholars. She will also work with K-State Research and Extension as a Local Food Fellow to establish a food recovery network at K-State."I am passionate about combating global hunger and committed to meeting basic needs through advocacy for education and innovation," Easter said. "I am dedicated to working to build capacity that creates long-term solutions for food security and agriculture worldwide."Before graduate study, she plans to gain field experience working in the policy and development sector, potentially with the Food Research and Action Center, the World Food Programme or the Peace Corps.Easter intends to pursue a master's in food and agriculture law to work at the intersection of policy and development, making agriculture more equitable and addressing the root causes of hunger.She is interested in one day being a U.S. Foreign Service Officer for the U.S. Agency for International Development or serving on the congressional Senate Agriculture Committee."I want to do on-the-ground work involving intentionally and ethically interacting in communities to establish sustainable projects," Easter said."Ultimately, I hope to work towards addressing global food insecurity through making agriculture more accessible to women, people of color, and small-holder farmers."She has already made strides toward this goal. Through 4-H, she presented the problem of feeding an estimated 10 billion people by 2050 to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. As a Flinchbaugh Food and Agriculture Policy Fellow, she interned at the state and federal levels, including with Kansas Grain Sorghum, National Sorghum Producers and U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran's office, furthering her knowledge of agricultural policy and international food assistance issues.Easter holds leadership positions in several campus organizations, including director of leadership programming, Blue Key Senior Honorary; director of stakeholders and public relations, Food Security Scholars; student coordinator, Global Food Systems Leadership Program; founder and president, Student Basic Needs Coalition; and For Sophomores Only co-chair, Student Alumni Board.She is a member of the Staley School of Leadership Ambassadors, the Cats' Cupboard Advisory Board, and the University Honors Program. Easter is also a Connected 'Cat intern for the president's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/">regional community visits</a>.Easter's undergraduate research experience includes an in-depth desk review analyzing Kenyan women farmers' barriers to success for the Global Food Systems Leadership in Action course.She also traveled to Orvieto, Italy, for the Culture and Context in Leadership program, where she learned about local and global advocacy and completed a research paper about how food insecurity disproportionately affects marginalized groups.The daughter of Monica Bachamp, D.O., and Jeff Easter, Adelaide is a graduate of Sacred Heart Junior-Senior High School in Salina."As a Truman scholar, I am excited to join a community of changemakers making progress on all issues across the world, and I cannot wait for the experiences I will gain being a part of this network," Easter said.Kansas State University students interested in applying for nationally competitive scholarships should contact Beth Powers, director of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/leadership/scholardevelopmentandundergraduateresearch/">Scholar Development and Undergraduate Research</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/leadership/scholardevelopmentandundergraduateresearch/scholardevelopment/national-scholarships/">Office of Nationally Competitive Scholarships</a>, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:bethpowers@k-state.edu">bethpowers@k-state.edu</a>.

K-State's 39th Truman scholar is from Salina 

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail.

All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Dyson,Michael Dewayne REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Glavin,Destne Donn REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;

Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500

Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

NAME:&nbsp;Haynes,Zacchaeus Bernard REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;

DUI; 1st conv; comp evidence of blood/breath .08+

NAME:&nbsp;Henderson,Lyle Reginal REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear

&nbsp;NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Kappelman,James Patrick REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Snyder,Abby Jean REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500, Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Whitley,Desiree Elizabeth REQUESTED CHARGE(S): 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/2024/4/1713964735017.jpeg" alt="Dyson,Michael Dewayne" />
 <figcaption>Dyson,Michael Dewayne</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Dyson,Michael Dewayne REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713964759927.jpeg" alt="Glavin,Destne Donn" />
 <figcaption>Glavin,Destne Donn</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Glavin,Destne Donn REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appearTheft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human bodyPoss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713964807402.jpeg" alt="Haynes,Zacchaeus Bernard" />
 <figcaption>Haynes,Zacchaeus Bernard</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Haynes,Zacchaeus Bernard REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;DUI; 1st conv; comp evidence of blood/breath .08+Improper stopping, standing, parkingDrive w/o lights when neededPoss of marijuanaTransporting an open container<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713964857450.png" alt="Henderson,Lyle Reginal" />
 <figcaption>Henderson,Lyle Reginal</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Henderson,Lyle Reginal REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713964886069.jpeg" alt="Kappelman,James Patrick" />
 <figcaption>Kappelman,James Patrick</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Kappelman,James Patrick REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713964921470.jpeg" alt="Snyder,Abby Jean" />
 <figcaption>Snyder,Abby Jean</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Snyder,Abby Jean REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500, Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713964968129.jpeg" alt="Whitley,Desiree Elizabeth" />
 <figcaption>Whitley,Desiree Elizabeth</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Whitley,Desiree Elizabeth REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation

Saline County Jail Bookings, April 24

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina Post

Salina Police Department (SPD) officers responded to an early morning food burglary on Monday, April 22, after a man claimed another person's residence and walked away with a plate of food and a television remote.

Just before 7 a.m., SPD Capt. James Feldman said a 61-year-old man returned to his home in the 600 block of Beverly Drive and found the burglar.

"Around 6:40 a.m. that morning, he [the victim] entered his residence and determined that&nbsp;his front door had been forced&nbsp;open," Feldman said. "Upon entering, there was a male, later identified as Marcos Martinez."

Martinez, a 54-year-old Salina resident, caused about $150 in damages to the door. Once the victim confronted him, Martinez claimed that he owned the residence.

Feldman said the victim demanded that Martinez leave, which he initially refused, and so the victim physically pushed him through a door out of the residence.

"Then he [Martinez] reentered the residence through the same door the victim pushed him out of," Feldman said. "The victim forced him out again, and the suspect left. The victim determined that he stole a steak, some white bread, sour cream and chives."

Officers then took his description from the victim and sent it to other officers in the area. They found him walking in the middle of Beverly Drive near the 1500 block of the neighborhood.

"An officer&nbsp;who was&nbsp;responding to the area had the suspect description observed him walking down the middle of the street," Feldman said. "He was walking down the middle of the roadway&nbsp;blocking&nbsp;a school bus from proceeding."

Feldman said the victim confirmed that Martinez was the man who burglarized his apartment, which officers confirmed when they found the victim's television remote with Martinez.

Officers then arrested Martinez and requested charges for burglary, damage to property, theft and battery.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/2a9a2706-9ca0-42c0-b621-a8ec3dddc8ee">East Salina apartment unit burglarized, suspect arrested</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573750784898.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostSalina Police Department (SPD) officers responded to an early morning food burglary on Monday, April 22, after a man claimed another person's residence and walked away with a plate of food and a television remote.Just before 7 a.m., SPD Capt. James Feldman said a 61-year-old man returned to his home in the 600 block of Beverly Drive and found the burglar."Around 6:40 a.m. that morning, he [the victim] entered his residence and determined that&nbsp;his front door had been forced&nbsp;open," Feldman said. "Upon entering, there was a male, later identified as Marcos Martinez."Martinez, a 54-year-old Salina resident, caused about $150 in damages to the door. Once the victim confronted him, Martinez claimed that he owned the residence.Feldman said the victim demanded that Martinez leave, which he initially refused, and so the victim physically pushed him through a door out of the residence."Then he [Martinez] reentered the residence through the same door the victim pushed him out of," Feldman said. "The victim forced him out again, and the suspect left. The victim determined that he stole a steak, some white bread, sour cream and chives."Officers then took his description from the victim and sent it to other officers in the area. They found him walking in the middle of Beverly Drive near the 1500 block of the neighborhood."An officer&nbsp;who was&nbsp;responding to the area had the suspect description observed him walking down the middle of the street," Feldman said. "He was walking down the middle of the roadway&nbsp;blocking&nbsp;a school bus from proceeding."Feldman said the victim confirmed that Martinez was the man who burglarized his apartment, which officers confirmed when they found the victim's television remote with Martinez.Officers then arrested Martinez and requested charges for burglary, damage to property, theft and battery.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/2a9a2706-9ca0-42c0-b621-a8ec3dddc8ee">East Salina apartment unit burglarized, suspect arrested</a>

Burglar claims residence as his own, steals food after victim forces him out

A Kansas teen was injured in an accident just before noon Tuesday in Saline County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Toyota Corolla driven by&nbsp; Lindsey Makara&nbsp; Aita, 17, Salina, was southbound on Simpson Road at&nbsp;McReynolds Road. The driver lost control of the car. It entered the west ditch, struck a culvert and overturned. 

EMS transported&nbsp; Aita to Salina Regional Health Center.&nbsp; She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692220044286.png" alt="KHP" />
 <figcaption>KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTA Kansas teen was injured in an accident just before noon Tuesday in Saline County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Toyota Corolla driven by&nbsp; Lindsey Makara&nbsp; Aita, 17, Salina, was southbound on Simpson Road at&nbsp;McReynolds Road. The driver lost control of the car. It entered the west ditch, struck a culvert and overturned. EMS transported&nbsp; Aita to Salina Regional Health Center.&nbsp; She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Salina teen hospitalized after car overturns

An unknown suspect stole various construction tools from a job site in the 2700 block of Rogers Court on Saturday, April 20, and caused hundreds of dollars in damages to a duplex.

Sometime between Friday, April 19 and Saturday, April 20, an unknown suspect broke into an unfinished duplex in the area and stole more than $850 in tools.

"He noticed at about 8 a.m. on the 20th that someone had gained entry to one of the duplexes he was working on and stole his air compressor, miter saw and framing gun," said Salina Police Department (SPD) Capt. James Feldman. "Then, they had broken into the neighboring duplex — he didn't take anything but caused $500 worth of damage by breaking in."

The total amount lost in the burglary was $860 in tools and $500 in damages. Feldman said SPD officers continue to investigate the burglary.

Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/2a9a2706-9ca0-42c0-b621-a8ec3dddc8ee">East Salina apartment unit burglarized, suspect arrested</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574355645622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostAn unknown suspect stole various construction tools from a job site in the 2700 block of Rogers Court on Saturday, April 20, and caused hundreds of dollars in damages to a duplex.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2911.8017668038906!2d-97.64038606284427!3d38.78674316766315!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bcc8f110d01a39%3A0xb67894e1f12cafa8!2s2700%20Rogers%20Ct%2C%20Salina%2C%20KS%2067401!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1713889247127!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>Sometime between Friday, April 19 and Saturday, April 20, an unknown suspect broke into an unfinished duplex in the area and stole more than $850 in tools."He noticed at about 8 a.m. on the 20th that someone had gained entry to one of the duplexes he was working on and stole his air compressor, miter saw and framing gun," said Salina Police Department (SPD) Capt. James Feldman. "Then, they had broken into the neighboring duplex — he didn't take anything but caused $500 worth of damage by breaking in."The total amount lost in the burglary was $860 in tools and $500 in damages. Feldman said SPD officers continue to investigate the burglary.Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/2a9a2706-9ca0-42c0-b621-a8ec3dddc8ee">East Salina apartment unit burglarized, suspect arrested</a>

Tools stolen from duplexes under construction, officers continue investigating

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

On Monday K-State women’s basketball head coach Jeff Mittie added one of the nation’s top returning scorers, as Temira Poindexter has transferred to the Wildcats for the 2024-25 season

Prior to coming to Manhattan, Poindexter filled her trophy case at Tulsa garnering 2024 (WBCA) All-America honors, AAC Player of the Year, Two-time All-AAC First Team honors, 2022 AAC Freshman of the Year and 2022 AAC All-Freshmen Team honors.

Poindexter averaged a new Tulsa record 16.8 PPG, and ranks third in school history for career points

From the hardwood to the gridiron, earlier this morning it was announced that Kansas City Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt has agreed to contract extensions with President Mark Donovan, General Manager Brett Veach and Head Coach Andy Reid, ensuring the leadership of the Chiefs will remain in place for the long-term future.

Together since 2017, Donovan, Veach and Reid have seen the Chiefs to a 100-34 record, claiming seven consecutive AFC West Division Championships, four AFC Championships and three Super Bowl titles

And finally more locally the 2nd-ranked Sacred Heart baseball team continued to cruise last night in a clean sweep of Ell-Saline, winning 15-0 and 12-0 to improve to 16-0

Both games were streamed with live audio and video and are now available to play back on demand 100% free on our YouTube and Salina Post

That’s your sports update for today, but for even more great area sports content like this, check out the Salina Post and stay tuned to KINA.

<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/gvrYrUAW-ATjzBQNW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Kinasu 4-23-24" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
</div>Hello and happy Tuesday everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>_________On Monday K-State women’s basketball head coach Jeff Mittie added one of the nation’s top returning scorers, as Temira Poindexter has transferred to the Wildcats for the 2024-25 seasonPrior to coming to Manhattan, Poindexter filled her trophy case at Tulsa garnering 2024 (WBCA) All-America honors, AAC Player of the Year, Two-time All-AAC First Team honors, 2022 AAC Freshman of the Year and 2022 AAC All-Freshmen Team honors.Poindexter averaged a new Tulsa record 16.8 PPG, and ranks third in school history for career points_________From the hardwood to the gridiron, earlier this morning it was announced that Kansas City Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt has agreed to contract extensions with President Mark Donovan, General Manager Brett Veach and Head Coach Andy Reid, ensuring the leadership of the Chiefs will remain in place for the long-term future.Together since 2017, Donovan, Veach and Reid have seen the Chiefs to a 100-34 record, claiming seven consecutive AFC West Division Championships, four AFC Championships and three Super Bowl titles_________And finally more locally the 2nd-ranked Sacred Heart baseball team continued to cruise last night in a clean sweep of Ell-Saline, winning 15-0 and 12-0 to improve to 16-0Both games were streamed with live audio and video and are now available to play back on demand 100% free on our YouTube and Salina Post_________That’s your sports update for today, but for even more great area sports content like this, check out the Salina Post and stay tuned to KINA.

910 KINA Sports Headlines — April 23

By NATE KING News Director

On Monday, April 22, at approximately 6 p.m., a known suspect stole roughly $5,808 worth of property from a residence in Salina.&nbsp;

According to Salina Police Department Capt. James Feldman, officers responded to an apartment complex located in the&nbsp;2100 block of East Crawford Street for reports of a burglary.

The 33-year-old victim told officers the&nbsp;suspect, who also lives in the residence, stole tablets, speakers, a home projector, a camera, a couple of wedding bands, a leather-banded watch, a drill, a charger, a 65-inch TV, and some clothing.&nbsp;

The victim's roommate was identified as  51-year-old Walter Shields.

"The victim reported that on Thursday, April 11, he left the residence and locked the door to his room," Feldman said.&nbsp;"When he returned on the&nbsp;22nd,&nbsp;the locks had been changed, and&nbsp;items were missing."

Feldman said when officers located Shields, they also discovered several of the missing items.&nbsp;

Feldman said Shields&nbsp;was arrested&nbsp;on requested charges of burglary and theft, however, officers are continuing to investigate.&nbsp;

"We are still investigating this further. There are some other people to speak with," Feldman said.&nbsp;

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://salinapost.com/posts/95a4c0cb-94f9-49fc-b6f3-0949cee40f68">North Central Kansas counties prepare for 'Big Kansas Road Trip</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573750784898.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NATE KING News DirectorOn Monday, April 22, at approximately 6 p.m., a known suspect stole roughly $5,808 worth of property from a residence in Salina.&nbsp;According to Salina Police Department Capt. James Feldman, officers responded to an apartment complex located in the&nbsp;2100 block of East Crawford Street for reports of a burglary.The 33-year-old victim told officers the&nbsp;suspect, who also lives in the residence, stole tablets, speakers, a home projector, a camera, a couple of wedding bands, a leather-banded watch, a drill, a charger, a 65-inch TV, and some clothing.&nbsp;The victim's roommate was identified as 51-year-old Walter Shields."The victim reported that on Thursday, April 11, he left the residence and locked the door to his room," Feldman said.&nbsp;"When he returned on the&nbsp;22nd,&nbsp;the locks had been changed, and&nbsp;items were missing."Feldman said when officers located Shields, they also discovered several of the missing items.&nbsp;Feldman said Shields&nbsp;was arrested&nbsp;on requested charges of burglary and theft, however, officers are continuing to investigate.&nbsp;"We are still investigating this further. There are some other people to speak with," Feldman said.&nbsp;Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://salinapost.com/posts/95a4c0cb-94f9-49fc-b6f3-0949cee40f68">North Central Kansas counties prepare for 'Big Kansas Road Trip</a>

East Salina apartment unit burglarized, suspect arrested

A 23-year-old Salina resident discovered his 2016 Yamaha YZ250F missing from the side of his residence on Saturday, April 20, after another motorcycle theft in town.

Salina Police Department Capt. James Feldman said the unknown suspect stole the motorcycle or dirt bike between Thursday, April 18 and Saturday, April 20.

"The motorcycle was valued at $10,000," Feldman said. "The dirt bike was yellow in color and a 60th Anniversary Edition. It had triple eights on the front and sides of the bike."

Feldman said there are no suspects in the motorcycle theft in the 900 block of North 13th Street. 

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/accb0f6e-c01e-4f71-95df-290ba732bb2f">Unknown suspect steals 1996 Kawasaki motorcycle from Salina resident overnight</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574355645622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostA 23-year-old Salina resident discovered his 2016 Yamaha YZ250F missing from the side of his residence on Saturday, April 20, after another motorcycle theft in town.Salina Police Department Capt. James Feldman said the unknown suspect stole the motorcycle or dirt bike between Thursday, April 18 and Saturday, April 20."The motorcycle was valued at $10,000," Feldman said. "The dirt bike was yellow in color and a 60th Anniversary Edition. It had triple eights on the front and sides of the bike."Feldman said there are no suspects in the motorcycle theft in the 900 block of North 13th Street. Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/accb0f6e-c01e-4f71-95df-290ba732bb2f">Unknown suspect steals 1996 Kawasaki motorcycle from Salina resident overnight</a>

SPD officers investigating another motorcycle theft in town

In 1889, Mattie Piper and her husband bought one-way tickets to Oregon. Within a year, Mattie was back in Kansas, living a life with plenty of hair-raising stories to tell. Join Cheryl Mullenbach, as she introduces Mattie and other brave, daring and gritty women of Kansas. 

Learn about a woman who intended to retire in Kansas, but instead became known as the “Wheat Queen.” You’ll find these women, and many others, in the pages of Mullenbach’s books. She’ll feature women from&nbsp;Stagecoach Women: Brave and Daring Women of the Wild West, and&nbsp;Grit, not Glamour: Female Farmers, Ranchers, Ropers and Herders of the American West.

The Smoky Hill Museum is hosting this free presentation, on Thursday, May 2, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Enjoy the presentation in person at the Museum or from the comfort of your own home via Zoom. Register for your Zoom link at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillmuseum.org/" target="_blank">www.smokyhillmuseum.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579661873469.jpeg" alt="smoky hill museum sq.jpg" />
 <figcaption>smoky hill museum sq.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedIn 1889, Mattie Piper and her husband bought one-way tickets to Oregon. Within a year, Mattie was back in Kansas, living a life with plenty of hair-raising stories to tell. Join Cheryl Mullenbach, as she introduces Mattie and other brave, daring and gritty women of Kansas. Learn about a woman who intended to retire in Kansas, but instead became known as the “Wheat Queen.” You’ll find these women, and many others, in the pages of Mullenbach’s books. She’ll feature women from&nbsp;Stagecoach Women: Brave and Daring Women of the Wild West, and&nbsp;Grit, not Glamour: Female Farmers, Ranchers, Ropers and Herders of the American West.The Smoky Hill Museum is hosting this free presentation, on Thursday, May 2, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Enjoy the presentation in person at the Museum or from the comfort of your own home via Zoom. Register for your Zoom link at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillmuseum.org/" target="_blank">www.smokyhillmuseum.org</a>.

Smoky Hill Museum — Brave, Daring and Gritty: Women of Kansas 

On April 23, 2005, the recently created video-sharing website YouTube uploaded its first clip, “Me at the Zoo,” which showed YouTube co-founder Jawed Karim standing in front of an elephant enclosure at the San Diego Zoo.

In 1616 (Old Style calendar), William Shakespeare died in Stratford-upon-Avon on what has traditionally been regarded as the 52nd anniversary of his birth in 1564.

In 1898, Spain declared war on the United States, which responded in kind two days later.

In 1940, about 200 people died in the Rhythm Night Club Fire in Natchez, Mississippi.

In 1954,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mlb-new-york-atlanta-braves-hank-aaron-barry-bonds-61f9c0100228d5e9aa627871e8ebfbd0">Hank Aaron</a>&nbsp;of the Milwaukee Braves hit the first of his 755 major-league home runs in a game against the St. Louis Cardinals. (The Braves won, 7-5.)

In 1969,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kennedy-assassin-sirhan-sirhan-parole-677c24ee621f6cb70b6165e741f87e65">Sirhan Sirhan</a>&nbsp;was sentenced to death for assassinating New York Sen. Robert F. Kennedy. (The sentence was later reduced to life imprisonment.)

In 1971, hundreds of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/vietnam-war">Vietnam War</a>&nbsp;veterans opposed to the conflict protested by tossing their medals and ribbons over a wire fence in front of the U.S. Capitol.

In 1988, a federal ban on smoking during domestic airline flights of two hours or less went into effect.

In 1992, McDonald’s opened its first fast-food restaurant in the Chinese capital of Beijing.

In 1993, labor leader Cesar Chavez died in San Luis, Arizona, at age 66.

In 1998, James Earl Ray, who confessed to assassinating the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and then insisted he’d been framed, died at a Nashville, Tennessee, hospital at age 70.

In 2007, Boris Yeltsin, Russia’s first freely elected president, died in Moscow at age 76.

In 2013,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-839fa7dd558b4b49aeee8912c62e1f57">France legalized same-sex marriage</a>&nbsp;after a wrenching national debate that exposed deep conservatism in the nation’s heartland and triggered huge demonstrations.

In 2018, a man plowed a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-b815753338354179bd8314ab54145b56">rental van into crowds of pedestrians in Toronto</a>, killing 10 people and leaving 16 others hurt; (Alek Minassian was later convicted of 10 counts of murder and sentenced to life in prison.)

In 2020, at a White House briefing,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-science-donald-trump-health-politics-2fa0dd7e570e098149e5300f41fd0acb">President Donald Trump&nbsp;</a>noted that researchers were looking at the effects of disinfectants on the coronavirus, and wondered aloud whether they could be injected into people.

In 2021, U.S. health officials<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-science-business-europe-coronavirus-vaccine-839bf6a7c857b25df04078402b4d7b8a">&nbsp;lifted an 11-day pause on COVID-19 vaccinations</a>&nbsp;using Johnson &amp; Johnson’s single-dose shot, after scientific advisers decided its benefits outweighed a rare risk of blood clot.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713880039694.png" alt="FILE - In this March 29, 2006 file photo, YouTube cofounders Chad Hurley, 29, left, and Steven Chen, 27, pose for a photo with their laptops at their office loft in a San Mateo, Calif. Co-founders Hurley, Chen and Jawed Karim started YouTube in February 2005 shortly after realizing there wasn't an easy way for people to share their videos on the Internet. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - In this March 29, 2006 file photo, YouTube cofounders Chad Hurley, 29, left, and Steven Chen, 27, pose for a photo with their laptops at their office loft in a San Mateo, Calif. Co-founders Hurley, Chen and Jawed Karim started YouTube in February 2005 shortly after realizing there wasn't an easy way for people to share their videos on the Internet. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar, File)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Today in History:</h2>On April 23, 2005, the recently created video-sharing website YouTube uploaded its first clip, “Me at the Zoo,” which showed YouTube co-founder Jawed Karim standing in front of an elephant enclosure at the San Diego Zoo.<h2>On this date:</h2>In 1616 (Old Style calendar), William Shakespeare died in Stratford-upon-Avon on what has traditionally been regarded as the 52nd anniversary of his birth in 1564.In 1898, Spain declared war on the United States, which responded in kind two days later.In 1940, about 200 people died in the Rhythm Night Club Fire in Natchez, Mississippi.In 1954,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mlb-new-york-atlanta-braves-hank-aaron-barry-bonds-61f9c0100228d5e9aa627871e8ebfbd0">Hank Aaron</a>&nbsp;of the Milwaukee Braves hit the first of his 755 major-league home runs in a game against the St. Louis Cardinals. (The Braves won, 7-5.)In 1969,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kennedy-assassin-sirhan-sirhan-parole-677c24ee621f6cb70b6165e741f87e65">Sirhan Sirhan</a>&nbsp;was sentenced to death for assassinating New York Sen. Robert F. Kennedy. (The sentence was later reduced to life imprisonment.)In 1971, hundreds of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/vietnam-war">Vietnam War</a>&nbsp;veterans opposed to the conflict protested by tossing their medals and ribbons over a wire fence in front of the U.S. Capitol.In 1988, a federal ban on smoking during domestic airline flights of two hours or less went into effect.In 1992, McDonald’s opened its first fast-food restaurant in the Chinese capital of Beijing.In 1993, labor leader Cesar Chavez died in San Luis, Arizona, at age 66.In 1998, James Earl Ray, who confessed to assassinating the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and then insisted he’d been framed, died at a Nashville, Tennessee, hospital at age 70.In 2007, Boris Yeltsin, Russia’s first freely elected president, died in Moscow at age 76.In 2013,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-839fa7dd558b4b49aeee8912c62e1f57">France legalized same-sex marriage</a>&nbsp;after a wrenching national debate that exposed deep conservatism in the nation’s heartland and triggered huge demonstrations.In 2018, a man plowed a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-b815753338354179bd8314ab54145b56">rental van into crowds of pedestrians in Toronto</a>, killing 10 people and leaving 16 others hurt; (Alek Minassian was later convicted of 10 counts of murder and sentenced to life in prison.)In 2020, at a White House briefing,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-science-donald-trump-health-politics-2fa0dd7e570e098149e5300f41fd0acb">President Donald Trump&nbsp;</a>noted that researchers were looking at the effects of disinfectants on the coronavirus, and wondered aloud whether they could be injected into people.In 2021, U.S. health officials<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-science-business-europe-coronavirus-vaccine-839bf6a7c857b25df04078402b4d7b8a">&nbsp;lifted an 11-day pause on COVID-19 vaccinations</a>&nbsp;using Johnson &amp; Johnson’s single-dose shot, after scientific advisers decided its benefits outweighed a rare risk of blood clot.

Today in History, April 23

NAME:&nbsp;Carter,Alan Michael REQUESTED CHARGE(S):Harass by telecom device; Transmit obscene comment/image/text, Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500

NAME:&nbsp;Dickerman,Wade Erin REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance

NAME:&nbsp;Everhart,Dallas Aaron REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Franco,Gamaliel REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;

Traffic contraband in corr/care facility; Intro item on grounds

Aggravated endangering a child; Reckless situation to child &lt;18

Agg battery; Knowingly cause great body harm

NAME:&nbsp;Greenwich-Blue,Steven Nathaniel REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Abuse of a child; torture or beat child; vic&lt;6yo

NAME:&nbsp;Martinez,Marcos Benavidez REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;

Battery; Knowing/recklessly causing bodily harm

Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft, domestic violence or sexually motivated crime

Criminal Damage to Property; Value Unknown

NAME:&nbsp;Neff,August Brittany REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;

NAME:&nbsp;Perez Perez,Noe&nbsp; REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;

Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity

Failure to stop at accident; 1st offense in a year damage &lt; $1000

NAME:&nbsp;Shields,Walter Cornelius REQUESTED CHARGE(S):Burglary; Locked dwelling to commit felony, theft, domestic violence or sexually motivated crime

NAME:&nbsp;Wilson,Dylan Wayne REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Probation Violationd

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/2024/4/1713878363671.jpeg" alt="Carter,Alan Michael" />
 <figcaption>Carter,Alan Michael</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Carter,Alan Michael REQUESTED CHARGE(S):Harass by telecom device; Transmit obscene comment/image/text, Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713878433760.jpeg" alt="Dickerman,Wade Erin" />
 <figcaption>Dickerman,Wade Erin</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Dickerman,Wade Erin REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713878453294.jpeg" alt="Everhart,Dallas Aaron" />
 <figcaption>Everhart,Dallas Aaron</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Everhart,Dallas Aaron REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713878466743.jpeg" alt="Franco,Gamaliel" />
 <figcaption>Franco,Gamaliel</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Franco,Gamaliel REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human bodyPoss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulantTraffic contraband in corr/care facility; Intro item on groundsAggravated endangering a child; Reckless situation to child &lt;18Agg assault; w/ deadly weaponAgg battery; Knowingly cause great body harmAgg battery; Knowingly use deadly weaponAggravated robbery<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713878480528.jpeg" alt="Greenwich-Blue,Steven Nathaniel" />
 <figcaption>Greenwich-Blue,Steven Nathaniel</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Greenwich-Blue,Steven Nathaniel REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Abuse of a child; torture or beat child; vic&lt;6yo<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713878499679.jpeg" alt="Martinez,Marcos Benavidez" />
 <figcaption>Martinez,Marcos Benavidez</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Martinez,Marcos Benavidez REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Battery; Knowing/recklessly causing bodily harmBurglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft, domestic violence or sexually motivated crimeCriminal Damage to Property; Value Unknown<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713878513142.jpeg" alt="Neff,August Brittany" />
 <figcaption>Neff,August Brittany</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Neff,August Brittany REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Contempt of Court; DirectFailure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713878532133.jpeg" alt="Perez Perez,Noe" />
 <figcaption>Perez Perez,Noe</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Perez Perez,Noe&nbsp; REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severityFailure to stop at accident; 1st offense in a year damage &lt; $1000Operate a MV w/o a valid license<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713878566559.png" alt="Shields,Walter Cornelius" />
 <figcaption>Shields,Walter Cornelius</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Shields,Walter Cornelius REQUESTED CHARGE(S):Burglary; Locked dwelling to commit felony, theft, domestic violence or sexually motivated crime<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713878594833.jpeg" alt="Wilson,Dylan Wayne" />
 <figcaption>Wilson,Dylan Wayne</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Wilson,Dylan Wayne REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Probation Violationd

Saline County Jail Bookings, April 23

More than 600 runners gathered in downtown Salina on Saturday for the 2024 Love, Chloe Family Fun Run, which offered three different race routes for families and individual runners to enjoy.

Heidi Feyerherm-Smith, the founder and executive director of the Love, Chloe Foundation, said the race had about 540 total entries last year, but the final entries totaled 680 this year.

About 600 entries were in-person runners, while the rest counted as virtual.

The funds raised from the event will go directly toward helping families with children battling cancer — ranging from holiday packages to providing funds for food and gas expenses when traveling to and from cancer treatments.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/cc209d89-36f4-460f-b073-85452f51d36a">Earth Day a vital platform — Kernza® pushing for mainstream acceptance</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713807176575.jpeg" alt="Runners begin the Love, Chloe Family Fun Run early Saturday morning, April 20, near the intersection of Ash Street and Santa Fe Avenue. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Runners begin the Love, Chloe Family Fun Run early Saturday morning, April 20, near the intersection of Ash Street and Santa Fe Avenue. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostMore than 600 runners gathered in downtown Salina on Saturday for the 2024 Love, Chloe Family Fun Run, which offered three different race routes for families and individual runners to enjoy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713807427893.jpeg" alt="Anna Albers, middle, races over to tag Daryan Dickerson, left, after getting tagged by Ryan Harman, badge number 365 on the right, and Hunter Harman, 7, badge number 366, on Saturday, April 20, at the 2024 Love, Chloe Fun Run in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Anna Albers, middle, races over to tag Daryan Dickerson, left, after getting tagged by Ryan Harman, badge number 365 on the right, and Hunter Harman, 7, badge number 366, on Saturday, April 20, at the 2024 Love, Chloe Fun Run in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Heidi Feyerherm-Smith, the founder and executive director of the Love, Chloe Foundation, said the race had about 540 total entries last year, but the final entries totaled 680 this year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713807791787.jpeg" alt="Zane Weis, 11, left, sprints to the finish line with his father, Michael Weis, right, during the 2024 Love, Chloe Family Fun Run on Saturday, April 20, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Zane Weis, 11, left, sprints to the finish line with his father, Michael Weis, right, during the 2024 Love, Chloe Family Fun Run on Saturday, April 20, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>About 600 entries were in-person runners, while the rest counted as virtual.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713807982537.jpeg" alt="Runners race down Santa Fe Avenue for the 2024 Love, Chloe Family Fun Run for various races including a one-mile fun run/walk, a 5K run/walk and a complete 10K course for runners on Saturday, April 20, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Runners race down Santa Fe Avenue for the 2024 Love, Chloe Family Fun Run for various races including a one-mile fun run/walk, a 5K run/walk and a complete 10K course for runners on Saturday, April 20, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>The funds raised from the event will go directly toward helping families with children battling cancer — ranging from holiday packages to providing funds for food and gas expenses when traveling to and from cancer treatments.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713808072756.jpeg" alt="The 2024 Love, Chloe Family Fun Run sign near the City Lights Stage on Saturday, April 20, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The 2024 Love, Chloe Family Fun Run sign near the City Lights Stage on Saturday, April 20, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/cc209d89-36f4-460f-b073-85452f51d36a">Earth Day a vital platform — Kernza® pushing for mainstream acceptance</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713808188438.jpeg" alt="Signs with the stories of various children helped by the Love, Chloe Foundation lined Santa Fe Avenue and the rest of the race course to show runners the people that the organization assists on Saturday, April 20, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Signs with the stories of various children helped by the Love, Chloe Foundation lined Santa Fe Avenue and the rest of the race course to show runners the people that the organization assists on Saturday, April 20, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>

📸 Love, Chloe Family Fun Run — Saturday, April 20, 2024

Join us for the latest episode of the King in the Community podcast with Salina Post News Director Nate King. Listen in as we discuss the latest from Topeka with Clarke Sanders, State Representative for the 69th Kansas House District.&nbsp;

 We cover topics such as tax reform, late-night conference committee discussions, special education funding, the Nov. election, and where bills stand before lawmakers return to finish the session.

For more insightful conversations tackling the pressing issues impacting the lives of Kansans, check out other episodes of King in the Community.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="State Rep. Clarke Sanders, legislative update" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=nb975-15f3149-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By SALINA POSTJoin us for the latest episode of the King in the Community podcast with Salina Post News Director Nate King. Listen in as we discuss the latest from Topeka with Clarke Sanders, State Representative for the 69th Kansas House District.&nbsp; We cover topics such as tax reform, late-night conference committee discussions, special education funding, the Nov. election, and where bills stand before lawmakers return to finish the session.For more insightful conversations tackling the pressing issues impacting the lives of Kansans, check out other episodes of King in the Community.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="King in the Community" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=skmut-558a99-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=publish_time&publish_start=&publish_end=2024-04-22&ss=244ef7a2ea94f6d5ee50ec90bb9036da&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
</div>

🎙King in the Community: State Rep. Clarke Sanders, legislative update

On Friday last week, just after 1 p.m., Saline County Sheriff's Office deputies stopped and arrested a Culligan employee after multiple witnesses reported a Culligan box truck dragging along a barbed wire fence.

Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said that just north of the junction of Interstates 135 and 70, the driver, later identified as 35-year-old Salina resident Thomas Norton, reported falling asleep and veering from the roadway.

"The box truck was going southbound, left the highway, went down off and through the interstate fence," Soldan said. "Then we get a second report, a third report that the thing had come back up onto the interstate, back in through a field, and was dragging a chunk of barbed wire fence."

Norton then drove eastbound on Interstate 70 with the portion of the fence, exited the interstate at Ninth Street, and parked at a gas station near Ninth Street and Euclid Avenue.

Once stopped, Soldan said Saline County deputies then began conversations with Norton, who reported he fell asleep, leading him to veer off the highway.

"Thomas [Norton] ended up being arrested for possession of marijuana, possession of paraphernalia, leaving the scene of an accident, improper driving on a laned roadway and no seatbelt," Soldan said. "The fence that was damaged belonged to KDOT [Kansas Department of Transportation]."

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/cc209d89-36f4-460f-b073-85452f51d36a">Earth Day a vital platform — Kernza® pushing for mainstream acceptance</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713804268923.jpeg" alt="Saline County Sheriff's Office deputies chat with the driver of the Culligan box truck on Friday, April 19, at the Rod's 2 at Euclid Avenue and Ninth Street in Salina. Photo by Nate King" />
 <figcaption>Saline County Sheriff's Office deputies chat with the driver of the Culligan box truck on Friday, April 19, at the Rod's 2 at Euclid Avenue and Ninth Street in Salina. Photo by Nate King</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostOn Friday last week, just after 1 p.m., Saline County Sheriff's Office deputies stopped and arrested a Culligan employee after multiple witnesses reported a Culligan box truck dragging along a barbed wire fence.Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said that just north of the junction of Interstates 135 and 70, the driver, later identified as 35-year-old Salina resident Thomas Norton, reported falling asleep and veering from the roadway.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713804331122.jpeg" alt="The location where the Culligan box truck driver, Thomas Norton, veered through an interstate fence on Friday, April 19, just north of the junction of Interstates 135 and 70 on I-135. Image courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>The location where the Culligan box truck driver, Thomas Norton, veered through an interstate fence on Friday, April 19, just north of the junction of Interstates 135 and 70 on I-135. Image courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>"The box truck was going southbound, left the highway, went down off and through the interstate fence," Soldan said. "Then we get a second report, a third report that the thing had come back up onto the interstate, back in through a field, and was dragging a chunk of barbed wire fence."Norton then drove eastbound on Interstate 70 with the portion of the fence, exited the interstate at Ninth Street, and parked at a gas station near Ninth Street and Euclid Avenue.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713804390720.jpeg" alt="Saline County Sheriff's Office deputies arrest 35-year-old Culligan employee Thomas Norton on Friday, April 19, at Rod's 2 in Salina. Photo by Joyce" />
 <figcaption>Saline County Sheriff's Office deputies arrest 35-year-old Culligan employee Thomas Norton on Friday, April 19, at Rod's 2 in Salina. Photo by Joyce</figcaption>
 </figure>Once stopped, Soldan said Saline County deputies then began conversations with Norton, who reported he fell asleep, leading him to veer off the highway."Thomas [Norton] ended up being arrested for possession of marijuana, possession of paraphernalia, leaving the scene of an accident, improper driving on a laned roadway and no seatbelt," Soldan said. "The fence that was damaged belonged to KDOT [Kansas Department of Transportation]."READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/cc209d89-36f4-460f-b073-85452f51d36a">Earth Day a vital platform — Kernza® pushing for mainstream acceptance</a>

Culligan truck destroys fence on I-135, Sheriff's Office arrests driver in town

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter

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

On Sunday, one of the hottest teams in the nation laid claim to another conference crown when the Kansas Wesleyan baseball team pulled off a clean sweep of Oklahoma Wesleyan to make it back-to-back regular season KCAC championships

With wins of 6-3, 3-1, and 3-0, the Coyotes continue one of the nations most impressive runs, having now won 24 straight conference games, good for a KCAC record of 29-4, and an overall record of 38-8.

Saturday’s finale was also a special one as head coach Bill Neale collected his 300th win at Kansas Wesleyan, showing no signs of slowing down any time soon

Speaking of baseball, over the weekend the Kansas City Royals tangled with one of the hottest teams in MLB as the Baltimore Orioles came to town for a three-game set

Kansas City would prevail in a thrilling 9-4 win on Friday but the O’s jumped back ahead with wins of 9-7 on Saturday and 5-0 on Sunday to take the series.

The Royals will be right back at it starting tomorrow at 6:40 when they entertain the Toronto Blue Jays

And finally tonight, our Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine Game of the Week resumes as the Sacred Heart baseball team, still undefeated at 14-0, gets set to host the Ell-Saline Cardinals.

Both games will be streamed starting at 4:00 100% free with live audio and video on Salina Post

<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/gPCYA8zX-ATjzBQNW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Kinasu 4-22-24" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
</div>By TYLER HENRY Lead SportswriterHello and happy Monday everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>_________On Sunday, one of the hottest teams in the nation laid claim to another conference crown when the Kansas Wesleyan baseball team pulled off a clean sweep of Oklahoma Wesleyan to make it back-to-back regular season KCAC championshipsWith wins of 6-3, 3-1, and 3-0, the Coyotes continue one of the nations most impressive runs, having now won 24 straight conference games, good for a KCAC record of 29-4, and an overall record of 38-8.Saturday’s finale was also a special one as head coach Bill Neale collected his 300th win at Kansas Wesleyan, showing no signs of slowing down any time soon_________Speaking of baseball, over the weekend the Kansas City Royals tangled with one of the hottest teams in MLB as the Baltimore Orioles came to town for a three-game setKansas City would prevail in a thrilling 9-4 win on Friday but the O’s jumped back ahead with wins of 9-7 on Saturday and 5-0 on Sunday to take the series.The Royals will be right back at it starting tomorrow at 6:40 when they entertain the Toronto Blue Jays_________And finally tonight, our Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine Game of the Week resumes as the Sacred Heart baseball team, still undefeated at 14-0, gets set to host the Ell-Saline Cardinals.Both games will be streamed starting at 4:00 100% free with live audio and video on Salina Post_________That’s your sports update for today, but for even more great area sports content like this, check out the Salina Post and stay tuned to KINA.

910 KINA Sports Headlines — April 22

A simple plant that began to take root as a grain crop several decades ago, has been refined in Kansas to reach revolutionary potential.

With the help of researchers and proponents,&nbsp;Kernza® is rising in popularity and has some thinking it could change the way the world is fed, while simultaneously providing fixes for an ailing environment.

The crop with seeds suitable for inclusion in human foods, is set for a grand opening in Kansas during Earth Day weekend April 19 through 22.

“It’s the Wild West of food exploration for&nbsp;Kernza®,” said James Bowden, a Saline County farmer-rancher and former researcher at The Land Institute near Salina, where the perennial wheatgrass was domesticated as a grain crop.

FACTOID:&nbsp;While Kernza® is a perennial plant, researchers are trying to extend the longevity of the crop in the field. Yields typically drop after the third year, said James Bowden, farmer-rancher and Kernza® proponent.

Packed with protein and fiber, and containing fewer carbohydrates than annual wheat, the crop that doesn’t have to be replanted every year, holds a wealth of possibilities.

“There’s a lot of opportunities that we have yet to realize in&nbsp;Kernza®&nbsp;because it is a very versatile grain,” Bowden said.

“People have used it in beers and pasta, in desserts, as a part of breakfast, and in flat breads like Naan,” he said. “My personal favorite things made with Kernza are pancakes.”

The Earth Day weekend event, dubbed&nbsp;Kernza®4Kansas, will feature the grain in food and beverages at restaurants, breweries and other sights from Wichita north to Courtland, west to Wilson, and Sylvan Grove and east/southeast to Council Grove and Emporia.&nbsp;

Salina will serve as the epicenter, and local experts — Bowden, Brandon Schlautman, Kathryn Turner and others will be on hand to answer questions about&nbsp;Kernza® and sing its praises.

“Kernza® was developed in Kansas. It’s being grown by farmers in Kansas. It’s better for the environment and better for the people,” said Schlautman, of&nbsp;Moundridge-based Sustain-A-Grain, a business that he co-founded with Brandon Kaufman. They have been growing, processing and marketing&nbsp;Kernza® since 2018. Schlautman doubles as lead scientist at The Land Institute, working on perennial legumes.

FACTOID: Kernza® is on the schedule and menus after Earth Day weekend. During the Kansas Road Trip, a pancake feed, beginning at 10:30 a.m. April 27 is planned at Midland Railroad Hotel in Wilson. Food made with Kernza® will remain on the menu at Fly Boys Brewery &amp; Eats in Sylvan Grove.&nbsp;

“The Land Institute domesticated this awesome crop. (Scientists and technicians) did all the research, breeding, and early education,” he said. “We at Sustain-A-Grain are co-hosting&nbsp;Kernza®4Kansas with The Land Institute to let Kansas people know about the crop, taste it and get better access to it.”

Pushing&nbsp;Kernza® into the mainstream of agriculture involves improving the crop, influencing more farmers to produce it, and dazzling the palates of consumers, with tasty and healthy options both at home kitchens and on restaurant menus.

Proponents aim for all of the above to improve after Earth Day as the new grain gains notoriety. Kernza® is now being grown and studied around the globe.

“It has been a long&nbsp;time in the making, built on the foundation and principles of the prairie,” said Turner, lead scientist in crop protection and genetics at The Land Institute.

For the potential to be realized, she said,&nbsp;Kernza®&nbsp;must be put to use.

“I would like 50 percent of farmers to know about it in Kansas and at least 10 percent to have tried it in their fields within the next 10 years,” Turner said.

FACTOID:&nbsp;A good Kernza® yield, in ideal conditions, approaches 700 pounds to the acre, James Bowden said, compared to approximately 3,000 pounds an acre for annual wheat, or 50 bushels an acre based on industry standard test weights of 60 pounds per bushel.A Kernza® grower in Montana once reported a test weight of 28 pounds a bushel, according to a 2020 report from&nbsp;<a href="http://projects.sare.org/" target="_blank">projects.sare.org</a>. Factoring a bulk weight with 700 pounds per acre, the bushel yield would be 25.&nbsp;&nbsp;

From there,&nbsp;proponents aim for&nbsp;Kernza®&nbsp;to find its way to more tables.

“If we had 10 percent of Kansas businesses selling and making items with&nbsp;Kernza®&nbsp;in a year, and then we increase by five percent every year, that’s what I want to see,” she said. “I want every person in Kansas to have tried&nbsp;Kernza®&nbsp;within the next 10 years.”

While hopes are high for the grain crop, Lee DeHaan PhD,&nbsp;lead scientist for the domestication of&nbsp;Kernza® at&nbsp;The Land Institute, cautions that the crop “is a work in progress,” with a number of improvements pending.

“The important thing to know is there is lots of work still to be done, to increase the yield and other properties of the crop,” he said. “Using modern breeding techniques, we may achieve yield similar to wheat in about 15 years.”

While&nbsp;Kernza® improves over&nbsp;time,&nbsp;central Kansas has the infrastructure in place right now to further develop and grow the market, Schlautman said.

“There's barely 1,000 acres in Kansas right now and Sustain-A-Grain has been working with nearly every one of those producers. We need 100,000 or more acres,” he said, “We want to be able to help more Kansas farmers grow&nbsp;Kernza®, but to do that, we need to build demand and markets locally and nationally. Doing that will require more&nbsp;time, more capital, more collaboration with The Land Institute, and organizations like the Kansas Department of Agriculture, while adding to our team at Sustain-A-Grain,&nbsp;including full-time people like James (Bowden), and a marketer for national food brands.”

Earth Day could add momentum to build demand for the promising crop, for the sake of both the farm economy and Earth.

“If everything were to fall into place with this event, the sky is the limit,” Bowden said. “Kernza®&nbsp;would be incorporated into every kitchen, restaurant, food retailer, and grocery store across the country. So much demand for this product would be created that we would have to double, or even triple the number of farmers and acreage to grow the supply needed to fulfill the orders coming in.”

Producers would be fairly compensated and&nbsp;Kernza® would be part of all farms, he said, “regardless of age, race, gender or any of the other silos of diversity. Everyone from farmer to factory worker, would be well aware of the benefits this crop provides to their environment, whether through soil conservation, carbon sequestration, or its ability to maintain clean, quality water.

“This is the dream, but the market has to be there to make the dream come true.”

• 25 pounds of perennial whole grain, $68.75.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713795946871.jpeg" alt="James Bowden, left, a Saline County farmer-rancher, and Kyle Banman, brewer at The Farm &amp; The Odd Fellows in Minneapolis, Kansas, toast the upcoming Kernza4Kansas event, with glasses of “10 Foot Roots” Kernza® beer. The beverage is exclusive to The Farm &amp; Odd Fellows. Photo by Anna Andersson" />
 <figcaption>James Bowden, left, a Saline County farmer-rancher, and Kyle Banman, brewer at The Farm &amp; The Odd Fellows in Minneapolis, Kansas, toast the upcoming Kernza4Kansas event, with glasses of “10 Foot Roots” Kernza® beer. The beverage is exclusive to The Farm &amp; Odd Fellows. Photo by Anna Andersson</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;TIM UNRUHA simple plant that began to take root as a grain crop several decades ago, has been refined in Kansas to reach revolutionary potential.With the help of researchers and proponents,&nbsp;Kernza® is rising in popularity and has some thinking it could change the way the world is fed, while simultaneously providing fixes for an ailing environment.The crop with seeds suitable for inclusion in human foods, is set for a grand opening in Kansas during Earth Day weekend April 19 through 22.“It’s the Wild West of food exploration for&nbsp;Kernza®,” said James Bowden, a Saline County farmer-rancher and former researcher at The Land Institute near Salina, where the perennial wheatgrass was domesticated as a grain crop.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713795720252.jpeg" alt="A sample of Kernza® raised in a greenhouse at The Land Institute near Salina, Kansas, sports a different look than annual winter wheat. Photo by Tim Unruh" />
 <figcaption>A sample of Kernza® raised in a greenhouse at The Land Institute near Salina, Kansas, sports a different look than annual winter wheat. Photo by Tim Unruh</figcaption>
 </figure>FACTOID:&nbsp;While Kernza® is a perennial plant, researchers are trying to extend the longevity of the crop in the field. Yields typically drop after the third year, said James Bowden, farmer-rancher and Kernza® proponent.Packed with protein and fiber, and containing fewer carbohydrates than annual wheat, the crop that doesn’t have to be replanted every year, holds a wealth of possibilities.“There’s a lot of opportunities that we have yet to realize in&nbsp;Kernza®&nbsp;because it is a very versatile grain,” Bowden said.“People have used it in beers and pasta, in desserts, as a part of breakfast, and in flat breads like Naan,” he said. “My personal favorite things made with Kernza are pancakes.”The Earth Day weekend event, dubbed&nbsp;Kernza®4Kansas, will feature the grain in food and beverages at restaurants, breweries and other sights from Wichita north to Courtland, west to Wilson, and Sylvan Grove and east/southeast to Council Grove and Emporia.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713796107990.png" alt="FACTOID: Blue Skye Brewery &amp; Eats, 116 N. Santa Fe, of Salina; Walnut River Brewing Company of El Dorado; and River City Brewing of Wichita, plan to have beer made with Kernza® by early May, but will just miss the Kernza4Kansas event, said James Bowden, of Salina, one of the organizers." />
 <figcaption>FACTOID: Blue Skye Brewery &amp; Eats, 116 N. Santa Fe, of Salina; Walnut River Brewing Company of El Dorado; and River City Brewing of Wichita, plan to have beer made with Kernza® by early May, but will just miss the Kernza4Kansas event, said James Bowden, of Salina, one of the organizers.</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina will serve as the epicenter, and local experts — Bowden, Brandon Schlautman, Kathryn Turner and others will be on hand to answer questions about&nbsp;Kernza® and sing its praises.“Kernza® was developed in Kansas. It’s being grown by farmers in Kansas. It’s better for the environment and better for the people,” said Schlautman, of&nbsp;Moundridge-based Sustain-A-Grain, a business that he co-founded with Brandon Kaufman. They have been growing, processing and marketing&nbsp;Kernza® since 2018. Schlautman doubles as lead scientist at The Land Institute, working on perennial legumes.FACTOID: Kernza® is on the schedule and menus after Earth Day weekend. During the Kansas Road Trip, a pancake feed, beginning at 10:30 a.m. April 27 is planned at Midland Railroad Hotel in Wilson. Food made with Kernza® will remain on the menu at Fly Boys Brewery &amp; Eats in Sylvan Grove.&nbsp;“The Land Institute domesticated this awesome crop. (Scientists and technicians) did all the research, breeding, and early education,” he said. “We at Sustain-A-Grain are co-hosting&nbsp;Kernza®4Kansas with The Land Institute to let Kansas people know about the crop, taste it and get better access to it.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713796031686.jpeg" alt="Martinelli’s Little Italy owner Tony Dong, of Salina, is stoked to put these Kernza® products to work during the Kernza®4Kansas event over Earth Day weekend. Photo by Tim Unruh" />
 <figcaption>Martinelli’s Little Italy owner Tony Dong, of Salina, is stoked to put these Kernza® products to work during the Kernza®4Kansas event over Earth Day weekend. Photo by Tim Unruh</figcaption>
 </figure>Pushing&nbsp;Kernza® into the mainstream of agriculture involves improving the crop, influencing more farmers to produce it, and dazzling the palates of consumers, with tasty and healthy options both at home kitchens and on restaurant menus.Proponents aim for all of the above to improve after Earth Day as the new grain gains notoriety. Kernza® is now being grown and studied around the globe.“It has been a long&nbsp;time in the making, built on the foundation and principles of the prairie,” said Turner, lead scientist in crop protection and genetics at The Land Institute.For the potential to be realized, she said,&nbsp;Kernza®&nbsp;must be put to use.“I would like 50 percent of farmers to know about it in Kansas and at least 10 percent to have tried it in their fields within the next 10 years,” Turner said.FACTOID:&nbsp;A good Kernza® yield, in ideal conditions, approaches 700 pounds to the acre, James Bowden said, compared to approximately 3,000 pounds an acre for annual wheat, or 50 bushels an acre based on industry standard test weights of 60 pounds per bushel.A Kernza® grower in Montana once reported a test weight of 28 pounds a bushel, according to a 2020 report from&nbsp;<a href="http://projects.sare.org/" target="_blank">projects.sare.org</a>. Factoring a bulk weight with 700 pounds per acre, the bushel yield would be 25.&nbsp;&nbsp;From there,&nbsp;proponents aim for&nbsp;Kernza®&nbsp;to find its way to more tables.“If we had 10 percent of Kansas businesses selling and making items with&nbsp;Kernza®&nbsp;in a year, and then we increase by five percent every year, that’s what I want to see,” she said. “I want every person in Kansas to have tried&nbsp;Kernza®&nbsp;within the next 10 years.”While hopes are high for the grain crop, Lee DeHaan PhD,&nbsp;lead scientist for the domestication of&nbsp;Kernza® at&nbsp;The Land Institute, cautions that the crop “is a work in progress,” with a number of improvements pending.“The important thing to know is there is lots of work still to be done, to increase the yield and other properties of the crop,” he said. “Using modern breeding techniques, we may achieve yield similar to wheat in about 15 years.”While&nbsp;Kernza® improves over&nbsp;time,&nbsp;central Kansas has the infrastructure in place right now to further develop and grow the market, Schlautman said.“There's barely 1,000 acres in Kansas right now and Sustain-A-Grain has been working with nearly every one of those producers. We need 100,000 or more acres,” he said, “We want to be able to help more Kansas farmers grow&nbsp;Kernza®, but to do that, we need to build demand and markets locally and nationally. Doing that will require more&nbsp;time, more capital, more collaboration with The Land Institute, and organizations like the Kansas Department of Agriculture, while adding to our team at Sustain-A-Grain,&nbsp;including full-time people like James (Bowden), and a marketer for national food brands.”Earth Day could add momentum to build demand for the promising crop, for the sake of both the farm economy and Earth.“If everything were to fall into place with this event, the sky is the limit,” Bowden said. “Kernza®&nbsp;would be incorporated into every kitchen, restaurant, food retailer, and grocery store across the country. So much demand for this product would be created that we would have to double, or even triple the number of farmers and acreage to grow the supply needed to fulfill the orders coming in.”Producers would be fairly compensated and&nbsp;Kernza® would be part of all farms, he said, “regardless of age, race, gender or any of the other silos of diversity. Everyone from farmer to factory worker, would be well aware of the benefits this crop provides to their environment, whether through soil conservation, carbon sequestration, or its ability to maintain clean, quality water.“This is the dream, but the market has to be there to make the dream come true.”FACTOID: Kernza® costs:• 25 pounds of perennial whole grain, $68.75.• 15 pounds of Kernza® whole grain flour, $74.99• 15 pounds of rolled Kernza®, $67.99 (Schlautman estimated regular oatmeal would be roughly half that price).“We’re trying to address that problem through plant breeding and plant selection,” he said. “The goal is a longer&nbsp;timeframe without tilling the ground.”“We want to be supportive of The Land Institute’s efforts in any way possible. It fits our model to buy local, drink local, and shop local,” said Monte Shadwick, Blue Skye owner.“We would prefer to have all of the businesses as long term partners anyway,” Bowden said.