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;Bates, Charles Edward REQUESTED CHARGE(S):Failure to appear, Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500

NAME:&nbsp;Garcia, Melissa Sue REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Poss of marijuana, Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant, Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance

NAME:&nbsp;Martinez, Aundrea Adrianna Sonjal REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Abuse of a child; torture or beat child &gt;6yo&lt;18yo, Aggravated endangering a child; Reckless situation to child &lt;18

NAME:&nbsp;Rainey, Patrick Shaun. REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity

NAME:&nbsp;Riffle, Brian Christopher REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

NAME:&nbsp;Wirtz, Patrick Jerome REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Wonder, Anthony James REQUESTED CHARGE(S):Outside warrant/NCIC hit, Criminal trespass; Property as posted per KSA 32-1013

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/2024/3/1711026490065.jpeg" alt="Bates,Charles Edward" />
 <figcaption>Bates,Charles Edward</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Bates, Charles Edward REQUESTED CHARGE(S):Failure to appear, Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711026507019.jpeg" alt="Garcia,Melissa Sue" />
 <figcaption>Garcia,Melissa Sue</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Garcia, Melissa Sue REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Poss of marijuana, Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant, Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711026666447.jpeg" alt="Martinez,Aundrea Adrianna Sonjal" />
 <figcaption>Martinez,Aundrea Adrianna Sonjal</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Martinez, Aundrea Adrianna Sonjal REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Abuse of a child; torture or beat child &gt;6yo&lt;18yo, Aggravated endangering a child; Reckless situation to child &lt;18<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711026677862.jpeg" alt="Rainey,Patrick Shaun." />
 <figcaption>Rainey,Patrick Shaun.</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Rainey, Patrick Shaun. REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711026690317.jpeg" alt="Riffle,Brian Christopher" />
 <figcaption>Riffle,Brian Christopher</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Riffle, Brian Christopher REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711026736557.jpeg" alt="Wirtz,Patrick Jerome" />
 <figcaption>Wirtz,Patrick Jerome</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Wirtz, Patrick Jerome REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711026753841.jpeg" alt="Wonder,Anthony James" />
 <figcaption>Wonder,Anthony James</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Wonder, Anthony James REQUESTED CHARGE(S):Outside warrant/NCIC hit, Criminal trespass; Property as posted per KSA 32-1013

Saline County Jail Bookings, March 21

By PAT MELGARES K-State Research and Extension news service

MANHATTAN, Kan. – In the United States, screens are everywhere.

Televisions, laptops, tablets, electronic bulletin boards and – of course – cell phones.

“Yet, what we know about positive childhood development,” said K-State Research and Extension child development specialist Bradford Wiles, “is that screens are not very helpful. Often, they are simply a mindless activity that doesn’t grow children’s brains or their social-emotional or physical development.”

Many healthcare authorities and pediatricians – among them the American Academy of Pediatrics – have published guidelines indicating children under age 2 should have no screen time, while everyone else should limit screen time outside of work or school to 1-2 hours per day.

Wiles, who has authored a K-State Research and Extension publication on the topic, says that there is an “opportunity cost” associated with screen time. “If you’re engaging in screen time, you’re not doing things that can help you with skill building in multiple domains – physical, mental and social.”

Screens, he said, are often substituted for babysitters, or a break for parents or other caregivers to get other tasks done.

“If that’s for a limited time, that’s fine; I understand the need to perform your household duties,” Wiles said. “You’re not harming your child by doing that, but be mindful of how much time is going by and do your very best to make up for that by being intentional in engaging with your children before and after screen time.”

Wiles is careful to indicate that technology, itself, is not the problem. “The problem is when you use that tool to isolate yourself or your children,” he said.

“If that tool is being used for engagement, then great. That is how children of all ages learn…through dialogue, discussion and shared experience. The ability to talk, and learn with and from each other is really a benefit to human development.”

Other things to keep in mind, according to Wiles, include:

Screen time should be severely limited for those under age 2 – ideally they should have none. Wiles said screen time is not nearly as stimulating as interaction with other humans. Spend time playing with young children instead.

Establish “screen free” zones in the home, including bedrooms. It may seem like punishment – and difficult to enforce – but the payoffs are great. If families choose to incorporate more screens into their lives, seek ways to use them in active ways, such as singing or dancing along to a favorite music video.

Tablets and smartphones may provide an opportunity for families to play interactive games, such as puzzles. Less-skilled family members learn more by asking questions, receiving instruction and getting feedback.

Decide in advance what you will view as a family. Avoid watching TV during meals or leaving the TV on for background noise. In addition, avoid texting or talking on a phone during meals or when outside with your family.

More information on child development is available online from K-State Research and Extension.

By PAT MELGARES K-State Research and Extension news serviceMANHATTAN, Kan. – In the United States, screens are everywhere.Televisions, laptops, tablets, electronic bulletin boards and – of course – cell phones.“Yet, what we know about positive childhood development,” said K-State Research and Extension child development specialist Bradford Wiles, “is that screens are not very helpful. Often, they are simply a mindless activity that doesn’t grow children’s brains or their social-emotional or physical development.”Many healthcare authorities and pediatricians – among them the American Academy of Pediatrics – have published guidelines indicating children under age 2 should have no screen time, while everyone else should limit screen time outside of work or school to 1-2 hours per day.Wiles, who has authored a K-State Research and Extension publication on the topic, says that there is an “opportunity cost” associated with screen time. “If you’re engaging in screen time, you’re not doing things that can help you with skill building in multiple domains – physical, mental and social.”Screens, he said, are often substituted for babysitters, or a break for parents or other caregivers to get other tasks done.“If that’s for a limited time, that’s fine; I understand the need to perform your household duties,” Wiles said. “You’re not harming your child by doing that, but be mindful of how much time is going by and do your very best to make up for that by being intentional in engaging with your children before and after screen time.”Wiles is careful to indicate that technology, itself, is not the problem. “The problem is when you use that tool to isolate yourself or your children,” he said.“If that tool is being used for engagement, then great. That is how children of all ages learn…through dialogue, discussion and shared experience. The ability to talk, and learn with and from each other is really a benefit to human development.”Other things to keep in mind, according to Wiles, include:<h2>Families with very young children</h2>Screen time should be severely limited for those under age 2 – ideally they should have none. Wiles said screen time is not nearly as stimulating as interaction with other humans. Spend time playing with young children instead.<h2>Families with children ages 6-17</h2>Establish “screen free” zones in the home, including bedrooms. It may seem like punishment – and difficult to enforce – but the payoffs are great. If families choose to incorporate more screens into their lives, seek ways to use them in active ways, such as singing or dancing along to a favorite music video.<h2>Family fun</h2>Tablets and smartphones may provide an opportunity for families to play interactive games, such as puzzles. Less-skilled family members learn more by asking questions, receiving instruction and getting feedback.<h2>Whole family screen time</h2>Decide in advance what you will view as a family. Avoid watching TV during meals or leaving the TV on for background noise. In addition, avoid texting or talking on a phone during meals or when outside with your family.More information on child development is available online from K-State Research and Extension.

K-State Extension: Parents encouraged to reduce children’s screen time

As wheat fields green up across Kansas, a pair of&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xfc-ceGsXV7nnRoNGMxXqvj-1U5mjshZuxCiX971gg9lrjiDSI37WVQHuB4PZCaVw_hpbPlpHHxiZD4VTTubu1JoCbOpzUh7lLpmk6Lscd_H-ktozaL_X72J5_PqxQ20L6fgp89uuj3ZX_cbSbXdhQDESMCDjrM2gqlfvZk8rIiGjVyvFm7vlageFfSdPHCG&amp;c=OU-ZUyu6qxKMamAyl4ztM8CurGm1IZoQIao1FQ7tyPyD16o6-LkwMQ==&amp;ch=YHjlcJpCb3cI9_D5oW39IffkCAb6V3bseZ-37ge87TtJlBR-bsfWSA==" target="_blank">Wheat Rx</a>&nbsp;seminars in early March delivered expert advice to growers on how to unlock the genetic potential of wheat varieties for their specific geographies and operations and use research-informed methods to produce high-yielding and high-quality wheat.&nbsp;

“Wheat Rx is the Kansas farmer’s prescription for combining best management practices and variety selection for the economical and sustainable production of high-quality winter wheat,” said Aaron Harries, vice president of research and operations for Kansas Wheat. “Informed by the research investments made by Kansas wheat producers through the Kansas Wheat Commission, these seminars are just what the doctor ordered for learning how to maximize profitability through variety selection and practices on the ground.”&nbsp;

The March seminars took place in Dodge City and Wichita. Presenters included a rundown of leading experts from Kansas State University that discussed cover crops and soil health, soil fertility, fungicides and the economics of wheat production.&nbsp;

Gregg Ibendhal and Daniel O’Brien, professors in K-State’s Department of Agricultural Economics, shared the trends and predictions for wheat profitability in Kansas. They noted that machinery costs are still the largest expense category for growers, although that category is getting smaller. It’s no surprise that fertilizer expenses have increased greatly along with interest rates but explained the futures markets have not fully captured the risk of the continued Russian/Ukraine war. They also discussed the current and future supply and demand situation for the world’s major wheat importers and exporters.&nbsp;

Outside of the kernels in the bin, Dr. Romulo Lollato, K-State associate professor of wheat and forage production, discussed the agronomic, ecological and economic benefits of diversifying crop rotations with wheat. He walked through the impacts of simplified crop rotations due to a steep reduction in wheat acreage to food security and biodiversity. Conversely, after a comprehensive review of more than 300 peer-reviewed studies, his team outlined the benefits of adding wheat back into crop rotations, including forage production, dual-purpose use for grazing, weed control, interruption of pest population cycles and other benefits.&nbsp;

Speaking of disease and pest management, Kelsey Andersen Onofre, K-State assistant professor of plant pathology, presented on the management of the major wheat diseases in Kansas. Statewide, diseases like stripe rust, Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus (WSMV), and scab are responsible for the most yield lost from 2013-2023. She walked through her research into disease management, including optimal timing of applications, the impact of dual applications, the influence of plant population and how well fungicides work in combination with variety resistance.&nbsp;

Moving from above to below ground level, Carlos Pires, a K-State agronomy post-doctoral student, discussed methods to improve soil health. He emphasized the benefits of regenerative ag practices like minimizing disturbance through no-till or minimum-till, maximizing soil cover through practices like cover crops, maximizing biodiversity through a mix of cash and cover crop or an integrated crop-livestock system and maximizing continuous living roots by reducing fallow and increasing cover cropping. He concluded that integrating cover crops into crop rotation will increase soil carbon, the amount of microbes, biological activity and aggregation to retain water, recognizing that these practices take financial investments and time.&nbsp;

The seminar ended with a discussion of fertility management specific to wheat by Dorivar Ruiz Diaz, K-State professor and soil fertility specialist. He discussed the most important nutrients to manage for wheat, including nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur, chloride and lime (for low pH soils). He also walked through how growers can manage both yield and quality, including nitrogen volatilization and placement and the interaction of protein with nitrogen management.&nbsp;

The seminars are part of Wheat Rx, a partnership between Kansas Wheat and K-State Research and Extension to disseminate the latest research recommendations for high-yielding and high-quality wheat to Kansas wheat farmers. This effort includes a series of extension publications and educational outreach like the March seminars.

“We’ve learned a lot from the research funded by Kansas wheat farmers on the impact of variety selection and management practices on yield and quality come harvest,” Harries said. “Wheat Rx is our outreach effort to share those results with growers. We can’t control the weather, but these practices and tools are ones farmers can use to make an appreciable difference in their wheat crop.”&nbsp;

Miss the Wheat Rx seminars? Plan to attend the&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xfc-ceGsXV7nnRoNGMxXqvj-1U5mjshZuxCiX971gg9lrjiDSI37WZQXOWRbgWPV1tOD9-tvjhXc7UCWfKwFsk1BUllQSnQBdiYDTPo_qO_O819flws1SPFzi-jrLAiVZdamgDCKD1hQIrONIqbnzoAiCOVLp4PE_20z1bbhxGQ9DjRD7VavB7kkVQaPkxYk5J4Qs6LXgchIO7QrH3EbG7700AbUf-CH&amp;c=OU-ZUyu6qxKMamAyl4ztM8CurGm1IZoQIao1FQ7tyPyD16o6-LkwMQ==&amp;ch=YHjlcJpCb3cI9_D5oW39IffkCAb6V3bseZ-37ge87TtJlBR-bsfWSA==" target="_blank">Soil Health and Cropping System Sustainability Field Day</a>&nbsp;in Solomon/Gypsum on April 5 or the&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xfc-ceGsXV7nnRoNGMxXqvj-1U5mjshZuxCiX971gg9lrjiDSI37WZQXOWRbgWPVHbcMdpGt_PfILorKGvCcVgqYnuylRIcMJkUWWPI8A_lPjHdHs791tLvqPulRxy7RGdPlDDQQpiLg0YG8vy4WhiI3dUXtJgkMW04JkaaL1wk=&amp;c=OU-ZUyu6qxKMamAyl4ztM8CurGm1IZoQIao1FQ7tyPyD16o6-LkwMQ==&amp;ch=YHjlcJpCb3cI9_D5oW39IffkCAb6V3bseZ-37ge87TtJlBR-bsfWSA==" target="_blank">Wheat Rx Seminar and Field Day</a>&nbsp;in Phillipsburg on May 23. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xfc-ceGsXV7nnRoNGMxXqvj-1U5mjshZuxCiX971gg9lrjiDSI37WdNKQghN3m7X5BOZSh-lHIw0fikU42xjdKVC3EmEJLpX4mA2YDc35dE5PT8EDY7O6lQDyud1fWQ1UnofkSpPggcGnpGNT4lngsdK-0olKig5&amp;c=OU-ZUyu6qxKMamAyl4ztM8CurGm1IZoQIao1FQ7tyPyD16o6-LkwMQ==&amp;ch=YHjlcJpCb3cI9_D5oW39IffkCAb6V3bseZ-37ge87TtJlBR-bsfWSA==" target="_blank">https://kswheat.com/events</a>.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655426692793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JULIA DEBES Kansas WheatAs wheat fields green up across Kansas, a pair of&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xfc-ceGsXV7nnRoNGMxXqvj-1U5mjshZuxCiX971gg9lrjiDSI37WVQHuB4PZCaVw_hpbPlpHHxiZD4VTTubu1JoCbOpzUh7lLpmk6Lscd_H-ktozaL_X72J5_PqxQ20L6fgp89uuj3ZX_cbSbXdhQDESMCDjrM2gqlfvZk8rIiGjVyvFm7vlageFfSdPHCG&amp;c=OU-ZUyu6qxKMamAyl4ztM8CurGm1IZoQIao1FQ7tyPyD16o6-LkwMQ==&amp;ch=YHjlcJpCb3cI9_D5oW39IffkCAb6V3bseZ-37ge87TtJlBR-bsfWSA==" target="_blank">Wheat Rx</a>&nbsp;seminars in early March delivered expert advice to growers on how to unlock the genetic potential of wheat varieties for their specific geographies and operations and use research-informed methods to produce high-yielding and high-quality wheat.&nbsp;“Wheat Rx is the Kansas farmer’s prescription for combining best management practices and variety selection for the economical and sustainable production of high-quality winter wheat,” said Aaron Harries, vice president of research and operations for Kansas Wheat. “Informed by the research investments made by Kansas wheat producers through the Kansas Wheat Commission, these seminars are just what the doctor ordered for learning how to maximize profitability through variety selection and practices on the ground.”&nbsp;The March seminars took place in Dodge City and Wichita. Presenters included a rundown of leading experts from Kansas State University that discussed cover crops and soil health, soil fertility, fungicides and the economics of wheat production.&nbsp;Gregg Ibendhal and Daniel O’Brien, professors in K-State’s Department of Agricultural Economics, shared the trends and predictions for wheat profitability in Kansas. They noted that machinery costs are still the largest expense category for growers, although that category is getting smaller. It’s no surprise that fertilizer expenses have increased greatly along with interest rates but explained the futures markets have not fully captured the risk of the continued Russian/Ukraine war. They also discussed the current and future supply and demand situation for the world’s major wheat importers and exporters.&nbsp;Outside of the kernels in the bin, Dr. Romulo Lollato, K-State associate professor of wheat and forage production, discussed the agronomic, ecological and economic benefits of diversifying crop rotations with wheat. He walked through the impacts of simplified crop rotations due to a steep reduction in wheat acreage to food security and biodiversity. Conversely, after a comprehensive review of more than 300 peer-reviewed studies, his team outlined the benefits of adding wheat back into crop rotations, including forage production, dual-purpose use for grazing, weed control, interruption of pest population cycles and other benefits.&nbsp;Speaking of disease and pest management, Kelsey Andersen Onofre, K-State assistant professor of plant pathology, presented on the management of the major wheat diseases in Kansas. Statewide, diseases like stripe rust, Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus (WSMV), and scab are responsible for the most yield lost from 2013-2023. She walked through her research into disease management, including optimal timing of applications, the impact of dual applications, the influence of plant population and how well fungicides work in combination with variety resistance.&nbsp;Moving from above to below ground level, Carlos Pires, a K-State agronomy post-doctoral student, discussed methods to improve soil health. He emphasized the benefits of regenerative ag practices like minimizing disturbance through no-till or minimum-till, maximizing soil cover through practices like cover crops, maximizing biodiversity through a mix of cash and cover crop or an integrated crop-livestock system and maximizing continuous living roots by reducing fallow and increasing cover cropping. He concluded that integrating cover crops into crop rotation will increase soil carbon, the amount of microbes, biological activity and aggregation to retain water, recognizing that these practices take financial investments and time.&nbsp;The seminar ended with a discussion of fertility management specific to wheat by Dorivar Ruiz Diaz, K-State professor and soil fertility specialist. He discussed the most important nutrients to manage for wheat, including nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur, chloride and lime (for low pH soils). He also walked through how growers can manage both yield and quality, including nitrogen volatilization and placement and the interaction of protein with nitrogen management.&nbsp;The seminars are part of Wheat Rx, a partnership between Kansas Wheat and K-State Research and Extension to disseminate the latest research recommendations for high-yielding and high-quality wheat to Kansas wheat farmers. This effort includes a series of extension publications and educational outreach like the March seminars.“We’ve learned a lot from the research funded by Kansas wheat farmers on the impact of variety selection and management practices on yield and quality come harvest,” Harries said. “Wheat Rx is our outreach effort to share those results with growers. We can’t control the weather, but these practices and tools are ones farmers can use to make an appreciable difference in their wheat crop.”&nbsp;Miss the Wheat Rx seminars? Plan to attend the&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xfc-ceGsXV7nnRoNGMxXqvj-1U5mjshZuxCiX971gg9lrjiDSI37WZQXOWRbgWPV1tOD9-tvjhXc7UCWfKwFsk1BUllQSnQBdiYDTPo_qO_O819flws1SPFzi-jrLAiVZdamgDCKD1hQIrONIqbnzoAiCOVLp4PE_20z1bbhxGQ9DjRD7VavB7kkVQaPkxYk5J4Qs6LXgchIO7QrH3EbG7700AbUf-CH&amp;c=OU-ZUyu6qxKMamAyl4ztM8CurGm1IZoQIao1FQ7tyPyD16o6-LkwMQ==&amp;ch=YHjlcJpCb3cI9_D5oW39IffkCAb6V3bseZ-37ge87TtJlBR-bsfWSA==" target="_blank">Soil Health and Cropping System Sustainability Field Day</a>&nbsp;in Solomon/Gypsum on April 5 or the&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xfc-ceGsXV7nnRoNGMxXqvj-1U5mjshZuxCiX971gg9lrjiDSI37WZQXOWRbgWPVHbcMdpGt_PfILorKGvCcVgqYnuylRIcMJkUWWPI8A_lPjHdHs791tLvqPulRxy7RGdPlDDQQpiLg0YG8vy4WhiI3dUXtJgkMW04JkaaL1wk=&amp;c=OU-ZUyu6qxKMamAyl4ztM8CurGm1IZoQIao1FQ7tyPyD16o6-LkwMQ==&amp;ch=YHjlcJpCb3cI9_D5oW39IffkCAb6V3bseZ-37ge87TtJlBR-bsfWSA==" target="_blank">Wheat Rx Seminar and Field Day</a>&nbsp;in Phillipsburg on May 23. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xfc-ceGsXV7nnRoNGMxXqvj-1U5mjshZuxCiX971gg9lrjiDSI37WdNKQghN3m7X5BOZSh-lHIw0fikU42xjdKVC3EmEJLpX4mA2YDc35dE5PT8EDY7O6lQDyud1fWQ1UnofkSpPggcGnpGNT4lngsdK-0olKig5&amp;c=OU-ZUyu6qxKMamAyl4ztM8CurGm1IZoQIao1FQ7tyPyD16o6-LkwMQ==&amp;ch=YHjlcJpCb3cI9_D5oW39IffkCAb6V3bseZ-37ge87TtJlBR-bsfWSA==" target="_blank">https://kswheat.com/events</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Wheat Scoop: Wheat Rx seminars share K-State research results 

 Twelve University of Kansas graduate students from the Lawrence and KU Medical Center campuses will present their innovative research on March 21 at the state Capitol.

Legislators and the public will be able to hear from the students about the potential public and economic effects of their research during the <a href="https://www.wichita.edu/academics/graduate_school/cgrs/index.php">21st annual Capitol Graduate Research Summit</a>. Their research covers a broad range of topics, including how metabolism affects Alzheimer’s, the integration of artificial intelligence in higher education and the health effects on children who experience food insecurity.

“The KU graduate students presenting at the Capitol Graduate Research Summit are working to develop solutions to society’s greatest questions and challenges,” said Ric Steele, associate vice provost for graduate studies. “They serve as examples of the vital contributions of our student researchers and of the university’s commitment to impactful research that addresses problems of worldwide significance and delivers solutions that make a difference to the state, nation and the world.”

Graduate students from Emporia State University, Fort Hays State University, Kansas State University, Pittsburg State University and Wichita State University will also present at the research summit.

The top presenters from each university will earn a certificate and a $500 award.

Annie Chuning, doctoral student in clinical child psychology, “Rates of Food Insecurity Influence Parent/Child Mental Health and BMI in Rural Kansas.”

Cassie Sutton, doctoral student in psychology, “Ultra-processed, Hyper-palatable, and Energy-dense Foods in the U.S. Food Supply: Prevalence Across 30 Years.”

Kara Hageman, doctoral student in bioengineering, “Preventing Orthopedic Joint Infection by Developing Antibacterial Bone Cement.”

Luke Parker, doctoral student in educational curriculum &amp; instruction, “Transforming Academic Landscapes: A Comprehensive Study of Artificial Intelligence's Integration in Higher Education at the University of Kansas.”

Merve Akin Tas, doctoral student in educational psychology, “Comparing the Use of Bayesian Network Analysis and Spatial Analysis to Identify the Social Determinants of Health and Education in Kansas Counties and School Districts.”

Mohsen Fatemi, doctoral student in public administration, “Navigating Transformative Change: Insights into City Information Processing and Disaster Preparedness Evolution in Public Management.”

Natalie Lind, doctoral student in chemistry, “Uranium Catch and Release as a Strategy for Nuclear Fuel Recycling.”

Susan Koerner, doctoral student in speech language pathology, “Tiered Virtual Coaching as a Professional Development Model for Speech-Language Pathologists in AAC Intervention Strategies.”

Riley Kemna, doctoral student in neuroscience, “Energy Metabolism Impacts Alzheimer’s Disease Pathology.”

Kelley Nelson-Strouts, doctoral student in speech-language-pathology, “Supporting Reading Through Developing an Assessment of Meaningful Word Parts.”

Jordan Trant, doctoral student in cell biology and physiology, “A New Factor Involved in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease Progression.”

Deena Woodall, doctoral student in nursing, “Longitudinal Evaluation of Practice Readiness for a Rural Nurse Residency Program Using an Interactive Computerized Decision Tool.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710967377046.jpeg" alt="Jayhawks present at the 2023 Capitol Graduate Research Summit in 2023. Twelve KU graduate students will present to legislators and the public at the 2024 event March 21 in the state Capitol in Topeka. Credit: KU Marketing" />
 <figcaption>Jayhawks present at the 2023 Capitol Graduate Research Summit in 2023. Twelve KU graduate students will present to legislators and the public at the 2024 event March 21 in the state Capitol in Topeka. Credit: KU Marketing</figcaption>
 </figure>KU News Service Twelve University of Kansas graduate students from the Lawrence and KU Medical Center campuses will present their innovative research on March 21 at the state Capitol.Legislators and the public will be able to hear from the students about the potential public and economic effects of their research during the <a href="https://www.wichita.edu/academics/graduate_school/cgrs/index.php">21st annual Capitol Graduate Research Summit</a>. Their research covers a broad range of topics, including how metabolism affects Alzheimer’s, the integration of artificial intelligence in higher education and the health effects on children who experience food insecurity.“The KU graduate students presenting at the Capitol Graduate Research Summit are working to develop solutions to society’s greatest questions and challenges,” said Ric Steele, associate vice provost for graduate studies. “They serve as examples of the vital contributions of our student researchers and of the university’s commitment to impactful research that addresses problems of worldwide significance and delivers solutions that make a difference to the state, nation and the world.”Graduate students from Emporia State University, Fort Hays State University, Kansas State University, Pittsburg State University and Wichita State University will also present at the research summit.The top presenters from each university will earn a certificate and a $500 award.<h2>KU Lawrence participants</h2>Annie Chuning, doctoral student in clinical child psychology, “Rates of Food Insecurity Influence Parent/Child Mental Health and BMI in Rural Kansas.”Cassie Sutton, doctoral student in psychology, “Ultra-processed, Hyper-palatable, and Energy-dense Foods in the U.S. Food Supply: Prevalence Across 30 Years.”Kara Hageman, doctoral student in bioengineering, “Preventing Orthopedic Joint Infection by Developing Antibacterial Bone Cement.”Luke Parker, doctoral student in educational curriculum &amp; instruction, “Transforming Academic Landscapes: A Comprehensive Study of Artificial Intelligence's Integration in Higher Education at the University of Kansas.”Merve Akin Tas, doctoral student in educational psychology, “Comparing the Use of Bayesian Network Analysis and Spatial Analysis to Identify the Social Determinants of Health and Education in Kansas Counties and School Districts.”Mohsen Fatemi, doctoral student in public administration, “Navigating Transformative Change: Insights into City Information Processing and Disaster Preparedness Evolution in Public Management.”Natalie Lind, doctoral student in chemistry, “Uranium Catch and Release as a Strategy for Nuclear Fuel Recycling.”Susan Koerner, doctoral student in speech language pathology, “Tiered Virtual Coaching as a Professional Development Model for Speech-Language Pathologists in AAC Intervention Strategies.”<h2>KU Medical Center participants</h2>Riley Kemna, doctoral student in neuroscience, “Energy Metabolism Impacts Alzheimer’s Disease Pathology.”Kelley Nelson-Strouts, doctoral student in speech-language-pathology, “Supporting Reading Through Developing an Assessment of Meaningful Word Parts.”Jordan Trant, doctoral student in cell biology and physiology, “A New Factor Involved in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease Progression.”Deena Woodall, doctoral student in nursing, “Longitudinal Evaluation of Practice Readiness for a Rural Nurse Residency Program Using an Interactive Computerized Decision Tool.”

KU graduate students to present research to legislators, public at state Capitol

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

EquiFest of Kansas returned to Salina and brought international presenters, vendors from across the nation and horse fans from Kansas all packed into and around <a href="https://www.tonyspizzaeventscenter.com/">Tony's Pizza Events Center</a>, 800 The Midway, Salina, Kan.

On its opening day, EquiFest celebrated with the World of Horses showcase that evening, featuring various presenters and clinicians for the rest of the event.

Sparklers lit up the central arena at the Events Center around 7 p.m., Thursday, March 14, to kick off the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses presentation.

After a short presentation from the Fort Riley Commanding General's Mounted Color Guard, the Diaz Family and another trainer, the Little Head Horse Dancers entered the stage to showcase their nationally recognized skills in traditional Native American dance.

Once the dancers concluded the traditional Horse Dance, North American indigenous education continued with Tashina and Shane Red Hawk, the Sicangu Lakota Nation members.

There, the father-daughter duo shared the ways of Lakota horsemanship and the deep connections they found while raising and training Heritage Appaloosa horses.

The Red Hawks finished the celebration, but throughout the day outside the arena, dozens of vendors sold various goods, ranging from rugged saddles to delicate Nepal-made jewelry.

More than 100 vendors visited this year's EquiFest, with a majority representing Kansas businesses, but some traveled from out of state to attend the large equine expo.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/50df5de1-f834-47bf-ba8b-450d2ef603bf">Bowl For Kids’ Sake fundraiser returns to Salina in April</a>

John Nocar, owner of the <a href="https://www.australiansaddleco.com/">Australian Saddle Company</a> from Mt. Vernon, Ohio, began attending various festivals and expos nationwide 18 years ago. In 2008, Nocar brought the Australian Saddle Company to EquiFest of Kansas.

"I like helping the people," Nocar said. "We fit saddles to the horse and our trees are made with aluminum, so it allows us to bend the tree to custom fit it to the horse. We're not just selling the saddle that's been made off of a tree that's previously made."

The tree of a saddle is the inner structure of a horse saddle. Since it is often made of wood, giving it the name "tree," some riders have difficulty finding the right saddle for their horses. 

Nocar began in the saddle business with a different company until it sold, and he started looking for new opportunities. He found one with an Australian leather conditioning recipe.

From there, Nocar built up the Australian Saddle Company, where he and his team attend nearly a dozen shows throughout the year, four of which are back-to-back alongside the EquiFest of Kansas.

Australian Saddle Company is an online business, so attending shows allows customers to review the product to consider it later or buy it in person during the show.

"It pushes your online business, and people still want to feel in touch," Nocar said. "I don't mind them buying online because it can't find anywhere else."

Another out-of-town vendor, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/handcraftedsterlingsilver/">Earth Delights</a>, owned by Joanna Donavan from Madison, Wisconsin, visits EquiFest of Kansas yearly to sell her Nepal-made sterling silver jewelry.

Donavan said she designs and performs the stone cutting for the various gemstones in her jewelry, but her business partners in Nepal finish the pieces with sterling silver.

"I was trained as a goldsmith with them, and then I slowly switched over to making lapidary and doing stone cutting," Donavan said.

As the vendors continued their sales, various clinicians inside two different arenas continually shared information about horsemanship and training.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710885438213.jpeg" alt="Ruben Little Head Jr. performs a traditional horse dance during the Celebrate EquiFest of Kansas opening evening on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina.&nbsp;Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Ruben Little Head Jr. performs a traditional horse dance during the Celebrate EquiFest of Kansas opening evening on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina.&nbsp;Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostEquiFest of Kansas returned to Salina and brought international presenters, vendors from across the nation and horse fans from Kansas all packed into and around <a href="https://www.tonyspizzaeventscenter.com/">Tony's Pizza Events Center</a>, 800 The Midway, Salina, Kan.On its opening day, EquiFest celebrated with the World of Horses showcase that evening, featuring various presenters and clinicians for the rest of the event.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710885770881.jpeg" alt="An American Freedom Riders Drill Team rider flies the Kansas Horse Council flag during the Celebrate EquiFest of Kansas opening evening on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>An American Freedom Riders Drill Team rider flies the Kansas Horse Council flag during the Celebrate EquiFest of Kansas opening evening on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Sparklers lit up the central arena at the Events Center around 7 p.m., Thursday, March 14, to kick off the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses presentation.After a short presentation from the Fort Riley Commanding General's Mounted Color Guard, the Diaz Family and another trainer, the Little Head Horse Dancers entered the stage to showcase their nationally recognized skills in traditional Native American dance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710885627597.jpeg" alt="Staci Anderson-Diaz performs with her stallion during the Celebrate EquiFest of Kansas opening evening on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Staci Anderson-Diaz performs with her stallion during the Celebrate EquiFest of Kansas opening evening on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Once the dancers concluded the traditional Horse Dance, North American indigenous education continued with Tashina and Shane Red Hawk, the Sicangu Lakota Nation members.There, the father-daughter duo shared the ways of Lakota horsemanship and the deep connections they found while raising and training Heritage Appaloosa horses.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710885857095.jpeg" alt="Tashina Red Hawk rides with her father, Shane Red Hawk, on Heritage Appaloosas bred and trained by their family during the Celebrate EquiFest of Kansas opening evening on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Tashina Red Hawk rides with her father, Shane Red Hawk, on Heritage Appaloosas bred and trained by their family during the Celebrate EquiFest of Kansas opening evening on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>The Red Hawks finished the celebration, but throughout the day outside the arena, dozens of vendors sold various goods, ranging from rugged saddles to delicate Nepal-made jewelry.More than 100 vendors visited this year's EquiFest, with a majority representing Kansas businesses, but some traveled from out of state to attend the large equine expo.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/50df5de1-f834-47bf-ba8b-450d2ef603bf">Bowl For Kids’ Sake fundraiser returns to Salina in April</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710885935943.jpeg" alt="Australian Saddle Company saddles sit on stands ready for visitors to view during EquiFest of Kansas on Saturday, March 16, in the Great Plains Convention Hall at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Australian Saddle Company saddles sit on stands ready for visitors to view during EquiFest of Kansas on Saturday, March 16, in the Great Plains Convention Hall at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>John Nocar, owner of the <a href="https://www.australiansaddleco.com/">Australian Saddle Company</a> from Mt. Vernon, Ohio, began attending various festivals and expos nationwide 18 years ago. In 2008, Nocar brought the Australian Saddle Company to EquiFest of Kansas."I like helping the people," Nocar said. "We fit saddles to the horse and our trees are made with aluminum, so it allows us to bend the tree to custom fit it to the horse. We're not just selling the saddle that's been made off of a tree that's previously made."The tree of a saddle is the inner structure of a horse saddle. Since it is often made of wood, giving it the name "tree," some riders have difficulty finding the right saddle for their horses. Nocar began in the saddle business with a different company until it sold, and he started looking for new opportunities. He found one with an Australian leather conditioning recipe.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886042776.jpeg" alt="A tin of Aussie Leather Keep sits on an Australian Saddle Company saddle during EquiFest of Kansas on Saturday, March 16, in the Great Plains Convention Hall at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina.&nbsp;Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>A tin of Aussie Leather Keep sits on an Australian Saddle Company saddle during EquiFest of Kansas on Saturday, March 16, in the Great Plains Convention Hall at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina.&nbsp;Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>From there, Nocar built up the Australian Saddle Company, where he and his team attend nearly a dozen shows throughout the year, four of which are back-to-back alongside the EquiFest of Kansas.Australian Saddle Company is an online business, so attending shows allows customers to review the product to consider it later or buy it in person during the show."It pushes your online business, and people still want to feel in touch," Nocar said. "I don't mind them buying online because it can't find anywhere else."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886107192.jpeg" alt="Earth Delights' various sterling silver jewelry pieces on display during EquiFest of Kansas on Saturday, March 16, in the Great Plains Convention Hall at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Earth Delights' various sterling silver jewelry pieces on display during EquiFest of Kansas on Saturday, March 16, in the Great Plains Convention Hall at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Another out-of-town vendor, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/handcraftedsterlingsilver/">Earth Delights</a>, owned by Joanna Donavan from Madison, Wisconsin, visits EquiFest of Kansas yearly to sell her Nepal-made sterling silver jewelry.Donavan said she designs and performs the stone cutting for the various gemstones in her jewelry, but her business partners in Nepal finish the pieces with sterling silver."I was trained as a goldsmith with them, and then I slowly switched over to making lapidary and doing stone cutting," Donavan said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886168642.jpeg" alt="Percheron horses Ace, left and Chip, right, drink from a tub of water after pulling carriage rides during EquiFest of Kansas on Saturday, March 16, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Percheron horses Ace, left and Chip, right, drink from a tub of water after pulling carriage rides during EquiFest of Kansas on Saturday, March 16, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>As the vendors continued their sales, various clinicians inside two different arenas continually shared information about horsemanship and training.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886487447.jpeg" alt="The Fort Riley Commanding General's Mounted Color Guard strides into the arena during the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The Fort Riley Commanding General's Mounted Color Guard strides into the arena during the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886529860.jpeg" alt="Sparklers light up the arena in Tony's Pizza Events Center to begin the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Sparklers light up the arena in Tony's Pizza Events Center to begin the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886596678.jpeg" alt="Staci Anderson-Diaz performs with her Spanish stallion during the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Staci Anderson-Diaz performs with her Spanish stallion during the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886682561.jpeg" alt="Saddles line the wall of a vendor at EquiFest of Kansas in the Great Plains Convention Hall at Tony's Pizza Events Center on Saturday, March 16, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Saddles line the wall of a vendor at EquiFest of Kansas in the Great Plains Convention Hall at Tony's Pizza Events Center on Saturday, March 16, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886783443.jpeg" alt="A dancer with Little Head Horse Dancers performs a traditional horse dance during the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>A dancer with Little Head Horse Dancers performs a traditional horse dance during the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886833028.jpeg" alt="Nicolas Diaz, a fifth-generation horseman, performs with his stallion during the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Nicolas Diaz, a fifth-generation horseman, performs with his stallion during the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>

EquiFest of Kansas celebrates horsemanship with heritage and innovation

By NATE KING KING and OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

Earlier this month, the Kansas Corporation Commission, or KCC, ordered Sundowner, LLC, owner Scott Kolling, to remove the locks he placed on water meters at Sundowner West Mobile Home and Trailer Park.

Following the adoption of a report by the KCC Utilities Division, staff found that Kolling was out of compliance as a public utility.

Sundowner, LLC’s failure to obtain proper documentation could lead to an almost $1 million fine. The fine is from K.S.A. 66-138, which prescribes a civil penalty of no less than $100 a day for providers who fail to comply with a provision of the public utilities statutes. The report stated that the fine would begin on Aug. 26, 2021.

One of these statutes requires filing for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, or COC, before providing the service. According to the KCC analysis, staff found that Sundowner, LLC owner Scott Kolling had not obtained a COC.

“<a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch66/066_001_0004.html">K.S.A. 66-104</a>&nbsp;defines a public utility as any company that furnishes water service,” the report by the KCC Utilities Division stated. “In addition to obtaining a COC to operate as a public utility, <a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch66/066_001_0017.html">K.S.A. 66-117</a>&nbsp;requires public utilities to seek approval for any rates or changes to its customers.”

Misty Livingston-Holmes, a longtime resident at Sundowner, said she voiced her concerns with the KCC about whether or not the founder of Sundowner, Frank Norton, ever applied for a COC when he established the park or if he was required to do so.

“I said, ‘I want clarification on this,” Livingston-Holmes said. “[Saline County]&nbsp; told me to call the KCC, and they will handle it.”

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/fbf51323-7eb3-4f6c-8e69-37dea91cc2e6">Years of neglect causes water crisis at Sundowner Mobile Home and Trailer Park</a>

When Livingston-Holmes called the KCC’s consumer helpline in 2023 and again in January 2024, the KCC staff told her that the commission knew nothing about the water issue at Sundowner or that Sundowner’s public utility even existed.

According to a statement from Linda Berry, the KCC Public Affairs and Consumer Protection director, the KCC staff are unsure when the subdivision Norton founded became a public utility. Berry said if Norton sold water to private homes while he owned the park, it would qualify as a public utility under <a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch66/066_001_0004.html">K.S.A. 66-104</a>.

This unknown qualification status for a COC or other oversight continued through each subsequent owner of Sundowner, LLC.

“They didn't know anything about it because he [Kolling] was never registered with the state,” Livingston-Holmes said. “Sundowner originated with Frank Norton owning the property. We bought lots, so with Frank, though, owning all of this, he didn't have to register.”

Residents at Sundowner, including Livingston-Holmes, continue to experience alternating days of black water with sandy sediment or strong-smelling chlorinated water coming from their faucets. Livingston-Holmes said the water quality issues have ruined her kitchen and bathroom appliances.&nbsp;

“This is the third time that I've had to run my dishwasher. I'm currently running it empty because I ran my washer, and I had all kinds of nasty sand all over my dishes,” Livingston-Holmes said. “The water has ruined our clothes and appliances because of all the black yuck.”

On top of black or heavily chlorinated water, Kolling allegedly provided water bills late to residents, with some Sundowner residents reporting bills that totaled almost $1,000.

Billing issues continue to affect the residents of Sundowner, and Livingston-Holmes said she felt burdened with anger and disgust.

“I got my water bill for February, and according to Scott, my consumption showed that I had used almost 16,000 gallons,” Livingston-Holmes said. “We use it to shower, which we try to do minimally, run our dishwasher, and wash our clothes. If you compare my bills from the past, we have never even come close to using 16,000 gallons of water.”

Livingston-Holmes and other Sundowner residents first raised their concerns with the Saline County Commission, starting with Saline County District 5 Commissioner and Commission Chair Joe Hay.

The only significant change the Saline County Commission could make to remedy the issue was to impose eminent domain, but that process is lengthy, and Hay said it would take too long to get the residents the help they need.

Instead, Hay began conversations with the KCC and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, or KDHE, and provided as much information as possible. The recent KCC Utilities Division report outlined some things Hay found in his initial review of the issue.

“I think they looked at it like he's [Kolling] neglected so much stuff,” Hay said. “He's never applied for the permit — he never applied to be able to raise their rates.”

State Representative Susan Concannon became aware of the ongoing situation at Sundowner after hearing about billing errors and inconsistent water quality from Hay.&nbsp;

LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/90be1788-5134-4e53-abd2-48415a7901c5">🎙King in the Community: State Rep. Susan Concannon</a>

Concannon later found more evidence for Kolling’s alleged neglect when KDHE staff told her that a local individual sent the water samples to the state department. KDHE staff confirmed this was the standard when testing privately owned wells, and staff do not visit the site.

“When I first found out about it that weekend, when I came home, I just drove to Sundowner and walked around, met some people,” Concannon said. “I had to see and hear about it myself before I could be a big advocate for them in Topeka.”

The following week, Concannon spoke with KDHE and a representative from Gov. Laura Kelly’s office to find a solution for residents.

“I just could not find anybody who would respond in a way that I felt was reactive,” Concannon said.

One way Concannon later saw an issue of slow response was in the Utilities Division report. Staff recommended that the KCC order Kolling to “Show Cause” or explain why Sundowner, LLC, would not need to apply for a COC within 30 days — possibly 30 more days of residents living with a compromised water system.

To Concannon, this issue was more than just part of her job. As she began interacting with Livingston-Holmes and other residents, she found the importance of opening dialogue channels for them.

“It's part of my job, but the part that I really enjoy is being able to fix a problem and help my constituents,” Concannon said. “Getting to know Misty has been just a pleasure. She really is a fighter for her community.”

Inspired by the strength of Livingston-Holmes and other residents at Sundowner, Concannon continued to push the issue and decided to contact Kansas Sen. J. R. Claeys, chair of the Utilities Division. After notifying Claeys, he sought further clarification on Sundowner’s history.

“The issue was that they [Kansas Attorney General’s Office] was under the assumption that the KCC would regulate based on it being from utility,” Claeys said. “Once they found out that there was a landlord-tenant issue, that gave them the clarification they could pursue.”

According to KDHE Communications Director Jill Bronaugh, the KDHE is responsible for complying with and enforcing federal and state regulations regarding public water supply systems.&nbsp;

Bronaugh said in the statement, “If the water system is privately owned, the KCC also has oversight authority regarding water rates.”&nbsp;

With the analysis of the Sundowner issue complete and on public record, KCC staff and other departments continue to wait for Kolling to “Show Cause” as to why he may not need a COC to continue business as Sundowner, LCC.

“This is a major health concern,” Livingston-Holmes. “I am very disappointed. I'm irritated. I'm just disgusted.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706028886080.jpeg" alt="Sundowner West Meadows Mobile Home Park resident Misty Livingston-Holmes holds up a water bottle filled with water from a spigot in her back yard on Wednesday, Jan. 17, near Hedville. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Sundowner West Meadows Mobile Home Park resident Misty Livingston-Holmes holds up a water bottle filled with water from a spigot in her back yard on Wednesday, Jan. 17, near Hedville. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By NATE KING KING and OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostEarlier this month, the Kansas Corporation Commission, or KCC, ordered Sundowner, LLC, owner Scott Kolling, to remove the locks he placed on water meters at Sundowner West Mobile Home and Trailer Park.Following the adoption of a report by the KCC Utilities Division, staff found that Kolling was out of compliance as a public utility.Sundowner, LLC’s failure to obtain proper documentation could lead to an almost $1 million fine. The fine is from K.S.A. 66-138, which prescribes a civil penalty of no less than $100 a day for providers who fail to comply with a provision of the public utilities statutes. The report stated that the fine would begin on Aug. 26, 2021.One of these statutes requires filing for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, or COC, before providing the service. According to the KCC analysis, staff found that Sundowner, LLC owner Scott Kolling had not obtained a COC.“<a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch66/066_001_0004.html">K.S.A. 66-104</a>&nbsp;defines a public utility as any company that furnishes water service,” the report by the KCC Utilities Division stated. “In addition to obtaining a COC to operate as a public utility, <a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch66/066_001_0017.html">K.S.A. 66-117</a>&nbsp;requires public utilities to seek approval for any rates or changes to its customers.”Misty Livingston-Holmes, a longtime resident at Sundowner, said she voiced her concerns with the KCC about whether or not the founder of Sundowner, Frank Norton, ever applied for a COC when he established the park or if he was required to do so.“I said, ‘I want clarification on this,” Livingston-Holmes said. “[Saline County]&nbsp; told me to call the KCC, and they will handle it.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706028816067.jpeg" alt="A bottle filled with water from an outside spigot at Sundowner West Meadows Mobile Home Park resident Misty Livingston-Holmes' house on Wednesday, Jan. 17, near Hedville. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>A bottle filled with water from an outside spigot at Sundowner West Meadows Mobile Home Park resident Misty Livingston-Holmes' house on Wednesday, Jan. 17, near Hedville. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/fbf51323-7eb3-4f6c-8e69-37dea91cc2e6">Years of neglect causes water crisis at Sundowner Mobile Home and Trailer Park</a>When Livingston-Holmes called the KCC’s consumer helpline in 2023 and again in January 2024, the KCC staff told her that the commission knew nothing about the water issue at Sundowner or that Sundowner’s public utility even existed.According to a statement from Linda Berry, the KCC Public Affairs and Consumer Protection director, the KCC staff are unsure when the subdivision Norton founded became a public utility. Berry said if Norton sold water to private homes while he owned the park, it would qualify as a public utility under <a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch66/066_001_0004.html">K.S.A. 66-104</a>.This unknown qualification status for a COC or other oversight continued through each subsequent owner of Sundowner, LLC.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709938771635.jpeg" alt="The corrosion on a kitchen sink in Misty Livingston-Holme's home at Sundowner West Mobile Home and Trailer Park in early March. Image courtesy Misty Livingston-Holmes." />
 <figcaption>The corrosion on a kitchen sink in Misty Livingston-Holme's home at Sundowner West Mobile Home and Trailer Park in early March. Image courtesy Misty Livingston-Holmes.</figcaption>
 </figure>“They didn't know anything about it because he [Kolling] was never registered with the state,” Livingston-Holmes said. “Sundowner originated with Frank Norton owning the property. We bought lots, so with Frank, though, owning all of this, he didn't have to register.”Residents at Sundowner, including Livingston-Holmes, continue to experience alternating days of black water with sandy sediment or strong-smelling chlorinated water coming from their faucets. Livingston-Holmes said the water quality issues have ruined her kitchen and bathroom appliances.&nbsp;“This is the third time that I've had to run my dishwasher. I'm currently running it empty because I ran my washer, and I had all kinds of nasty sand all over my dishes,” Livingston-Holmes said. “The water has ruined our clothes and appliances because of all the black yuck.”On top of black or heavily chlorinated water, Kolling allegedly provided water bills late to residents, with some Sundowner residents reporting bills that totaled almost $1,000.Billing issues continue to affect the residents of Sundowner, and Livingston-Holmes said she felt burdened with anger and disgust.“I got my water bill for February, and according to Scott, my consumption showed that I had used almost 16,000 gallons,” Livingston-Holmes said. “We use it to shower, which we try to do minimally, run our dishwasher, and wash our clothes. If you compare my bills from the past, we have never even come close to using 16,000 gallons of water.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709938977502.jpeg" alt="Residue on Misty Livingston-Holmes' shower at Sundowner West Mobile Home and Trailer Park. Image courtesy Misty Livingston-Holmes." />
 <figcaption>Residue on Misty Livingston-Holmes' shower at Sundowner West Mobile Home and Trailer Park. Image courtesy Misty Livingston-Holmes.</figcaption>
 </figure>Livingston-Holmes and other Sundowner residents first raised their concerns with the Saline County Commission, starting with Saline County District 5 Commissioner and Commission Chair Joe Hay.<h2>The early efforts from the local scene</h2>The only significant change the Saline County Commission could make to remedy the issue was to impose eminent domain, but that process is lengthy, and Hay said it would take too long to get the residents the help they need.Instead, Hay began conversations with the KCC and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, or KDHE, and provided as much information as possible. The recent KCC Utilities Division report outlined some things Hay found in his initial review of the issue.“I think they looked at it like he's [Kolling] neglected so much stuff,” Hay said. “He's never applied for the permit — he never applied to be able to raise their rates.”State Representative Susan Concannon became aware of the ongoing situation at Sundowner after hearing about billing errors and inconsistent water quality from Hay.&nbsp;LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/90be1788-5134-4e53-abd2-48415a7901c5">🎙King in the Community: State Rep. Susan Concannon</a>Concannon later found more evidence for Kolling’s alleged neglect when KDHE staff told her that a local individual sent the water samples to the state department. KDHE staff confirmed this was the standard when testing privately owned wells, and staff do not visit the site.“When I first found out about it that weekend, when I came home, I just drove to Sundowner and walked around, met some people,” Concannon said. “I had to see and hear about it myself before I could be a big advocate for them in Topeka.”The following week, Concannon spoke with KDHE and a representative from Gov. Laura Kelly’s office to find a solution for residents.“I just could not find anybody who would respond in a way that I felt was reactive,” Concannon said.One way Concannon later saw an issue of slow response was in the Utilities Division report. Staff recommended that the KCC order Kolling to “Show Cause” or explain why Sundowner, LLC, would not need to apply for a COC within 30 days — possibly 30 more days of residents living with a compromised water system.To Concannon, this issue was more than just part of her job. As she began interacting with Livingston-Holmes and other residents, she found the importance of opening dialogue channels for them.“It's part of my job, but the part that I really enjoy is being able to fix a problem and help my constituents,” Concannon said. “Getting to know Misty has been just a pleasure. She really is a fighter for her community.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709939066435.jpeg" alt="The toilet tank filled with black water at Misty Livingston-Holmes' residence at Sundowner West Mobile Home and Trailer Park. Image courtesy Misty Livingston-Holmes." />
 <figcaption>The toilet tank filled with black water at Misty Livingston-Holmes' residence at Sundowner West Mobile Home and Trailer Park. Image courtesy Misty Livingston-Holmes.</figcaption>
 </figure>Inspired by the strength of Livingston-Holmes and other residents at Sundowner, Concannon continued to push the issue and decided to contact Kansas Sen. J. R. Claeys, chair of the Utilities Division. After notifying Claeys, he sought further clarification on Sundowner’s history.“The issue was that they [Kansas Attorney General’s Office] was under the assumption that the KCC would regulate based on it being from utility,” Claeys said. “Once they found out that there was a landlord-tenant issue, that gave them the clarification they could pursue.”According to KDHE Communications Director Jill Bronaugh, the KDHE is responsible for complying with and enforcing federal and state regulations regarding public water supply systems.&nbsp;Bronaugh said in the statement, “If the water system is privately owned, the KCC also has oversight authority regarding water rates.”&nbsp;With the analysis of the Sundowner issue complete and on public record, KCC staff and other departments continue to wait for Kolling to “Show Cause” as to why he may not need a COC to continue business as Sundowner, LCC.“This is a major health concern,” Livingston-Holmes. “I am very disappointed. I'm irritated. I'm just disgusted.”

Kansas Corporation Commission orders Sundowner, LLC owner to remove meter locks immediately

As spring approaches, Lisa Newman always looks forward to getting outside and enjoying the sunshine. As a K-State Research and Extension Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent, she also looks forward to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.walkkansas.org/">Walk Kansas</a>, a program that has been fostering movement for nearly a quarter-century.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK11795/#:~:text=Among%20U.S.%20adults%2C%20more%20than,alcohol%20consumption%20(Willett%202002).">Two-thirds of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis, can be prevented or delayed by lifestyle changes.</a>&nbsp;Such changes include regularly going for walks or other exercise. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity each week or about 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

Newman oversees the team-based challenge designed to promote healthier living through activities such as walking, jogging, running, biking, swimming, or any other form of physical exercise. She said the new online dashboard makes tracking your progress easy, regardless of participant location.&nbsp;

"Walk Kansas was founded on the principle that if teams of six people would meet the minimum guidelines for physical activity over eight weeks, they could collectively and virtually walk across the state of Kansas, which is 423 miles," said Sharolyn Jackson, the state leader of the Walk Kansas program.

Aligned with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's recommendation of 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week, Walk Kansas provides a tangible framework for individuals to enhance their fitness levels.

"These challenges we've come up with try to meet that level of recommended exercise and some of the challenges go a little beyond that, like the Little Balkans to Nicodemus or the US Route 56 challenge," Newman said.&nbsp;

The "The Eight Wonders of Kansas" challenge provides a uniquely Kansas option for participants allowing them to complete their exercise and learn about the Eight Wonders of Kansas.&nbsp;

The Eight Kansas Wonders include the <a href="https://www.bigwell.org/">Big Well</a> in Greensburg, Kansas, <a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/KDWP-Info/Locations/Wildlife-Areas/Southwest/Cheyenne-Bottoms">Cheyenne Bottoms</a> in Barton County, <a href="https://cosmo.org/">The Cosmosphere</a> in Hutchinson, <a href="https://www.eisenhowerlibrary.gov/">The Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library</a> in Abilene, <a href="https://underkansas.org/">The Kansas Underground Salt Museum</a> in Hutchinson, <a href="https://www.travelks.com/things-to-do/parks-and-nature/scenic-areas/castle-rock-and-monument-rocks-oakley-and-quinter/#:~:text=Two%20sets%20of%20striking%20rock,by%20the%20Kansas%20Sampler%20Foundation.">Monument Rocks and Castle Rock</a> in Gove County, <a href="https://www.stfidelischurch.com/">The Basilica of St. Fidelis in Victoria</a> and the <a href="https://kpbs.konza.k-state.edu/">Konza Tall Grass Prairie National Preserve</a>.&nbsp;

Walk Kansas also offers a solo challenge for those who don’t have a team or just prefer to take on the challenge themselves. Participants do not have to live in Kansas to be on a team or to do the solo challenge.

"The other nice thing I like about this program, and it's not a requirement or anything like that, but if folks want to monitor their fruits and veggies and their water consumption, there is a place on the dashboard where you can enter that information," Newman said.

Beyond the physical benefits, Walk Kansas offers a holistic approach to well-being.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.walkkansas.org/newsletter/">Weekly newsletters</a>&nbsp;provide valuable insights into various aspects of healthy living, including sleep, diet, strength and balance – enhancing participants' overall wellness journey.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.walkkansas.org/">Registration is open</a>, with the program slated to run from March 31 to May 25. Registration closes for Saline and Ottawa counties on April 7.&nbsp;

Walk Kansas isn't confined to state lines; participants from across the nation and even globally are welcomed, allowing friends and family separated by distance to partake in the program together.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710949935271.jpeg" alt="Participate as a team or individually with K-State Research and Extension's Walk Kansas program. Image Courtesy Walk Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Participate as a team or individually with K-State Research and Extension's Walk Kansas program. Image Courtesy Walk Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTAs spring approaches, Lisa Newman always looks forward to getting outside and enjoying the sunshine. As a K-State Research and Extension Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent, she also looks forward to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.walkkansas.org/">Walk Kansas</a>, a program that has been fostering movement for nearly a quarter-century.<div><iframe title="Libsyn Player" style="border: none" src="//html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/29770628/height/90/theme/custom/thumbnail/yes/direction/forward/render-playlist/no/custom-color/512888/" height="90" width="100%" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen></iframe></div><a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK11795/#:~:text=Among%20U.S.%20adults%2C%20more%20than,alcohol%20consumption%20(Willett%202002).">Two-thirds of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis, can be prevented or delayed by lifestyle changes.</a>&nbsp;Such changes include regularly going for walks or other exercise. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity each week or about 30 minutes a day, five days a week.Newman oversees the team-based challenge designed to promote healthier living through activities such as walking, jogging, running, biking, swimming, or any other form of physical exercise. She said the new online dashboard makes tracking your progress easy, regardless of participant location.&nbsp;"Walk Kansas was founded on the principle that if teams of six people would meet the minimum guidelines for physical activity over eight weeks, they could collectively and virtually walk across the state of Kansas, which is 423 miles," said Sharolyn Jackson, the state leader of the Walk Kansas program.Aligned with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's recommendation of 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week, Walk Kansas provides a tangible framework for individuals to enhance their fitness levels."These challenges we've come up with try to meet that level of recommended exercise and some of the challenges go a little beyond that, like the Little Balkans to Nicodemus or the US Route 56 challenge," Newman said.&nbsp;The "The Eight Wonders of Kansas" challenge provides a uniquely Kansas option for participants allowing them to complete their exercise and learn about the Eight Wonders of Kansas.&nbsp;The Eight Kansas Wonders include the <a href="https://www.bigwell.org/">Big Well</a> in Greensburg, Kansas, <a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/KDWP-Info/Locations/Wildlife-Areas/Southwest/Cheyenne-Bottoms">Cheyenne Bottoms</a> in Barton County, <a href="https://cosmo.org/">The Cosmosphere</a> in Hutchinson, <a href="https://www.eisenhowerlibrary.gov/">The Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library</a> in Abilene, <a href="https://underkansas.org/">The Kansas Underground Salt Museum</a> in Hutchinson, <a href="https://www.travelks.com/things-to-do/parks-and-nature/scenic-areas/castle-rock-and-monument-rocks-oakley-and-quinter/#:~:text=Two%20sets%20of%20striking%20rock,by%20the%20Kansas%20Sampler%20Foundation.">Monument Rocks and Castle Rock</a> in Gove County, <a href="https://www.stfidelischurch.com/">The Basilica of St. Fidelis in Victoria</a> and the <a href="https://kpbs.konza.k-state.edu/">Konza Tall Grass Prairie National Preserve</a>.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710949590111.png" alt="The various walking, excercise challenges available to those particpating in Walk Kansas 2024. Image Courtesy Walk Kansas" />
 <figcaption>The various walking, excercise challenges available to those particpating in Walk Kansas 2024. Image Courtesy Walk Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>Walk Kansas also offers a solo challenge for those who don’t have a team or just prefer to take on the challenge themselves. Participants do not have to live in Kansas to be on a team or to do the solo challenge."The other nice thing I like about this program, and it's not a requirement or anything like that, but if folks want to monitor their fruits and veggies and their water consumption, there is a place on the dashboard where you can enter that information," Newman said.Beyond the physical benefits, Walk Kansas offers a holistic approach to well-being.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.walkkansas.org/newsletter/">Weekly newsletters</a>&nbsp;provide valuable insights into various aspects of healthy living, including sleep, diet, strength and balance – enhancing participants' overall wellness journey.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.walkkansas.org/">Registration is open</a>, with the program slated to run from March 31 to May 25. Registration closes for Saline and Ottawa counties on April 7.&nbsp;Walk Kansas isn't confined to state lines; participants from across the nation and even globally are welcomed, allowing friends and family separated by distance to partake in the program together.

Ready, Set…Walk Kansas registration is open

On March 20, 1996, a jury in Los Angeles convicted Erik and Lyle Menendez of first-degree murder in the shotgun slayings of their wealthy parents. (They were sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.)

In 1413, England’s King Henry IV died; he was succeeded by Henry V.

In 1815, Napoleon Bonaparte returned to Paris after escaping his exile on Elba, beginning his “Hundred Days” rule.

In 1852, Harriet Beecher Stowe’s influential novel about slavery, “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” was first published in book form after being serialized.

In 1854, the Republican Party of the United States was founded by slavery opponents at a schoolhouse in Ripon, Wisconsin.

In 1922, the decommissioned USS Jupiter, converted into the first U.S. Navy aircraft carrier, was recommissioned as the USS Langley.

In 1952, the U.S. Senate ratified, 66-10, a Security Treaty with Japan.

In 1969, John Lennon married Yoko Ono in Gibraltar.

In 1976, kidnapped newspaper heiress Patricia Hearst was convicted of armed robbery for her part in a San Francisco bank holdup carried out by the Symbionese Liberation Army. (Hearst was sentenced to seven years in prison; she was released after serving 22 months, and was pardoned in 2001 by President Bill Clinton.)

In 1995, in Tokyo, 12 people were killed, more than 5,500 others sickened when packages containing the deadly chemical sarin were leaked on five separate subway trains by Aum Shinrikyo (ohm shin-ree-kyoh) cult members.

In 2013, making his first visit to Israel since taking office, President Barack Obama affirmed Israel’s sovereign right to defend itself from any threat and vowed to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.

In 2014, President Barack Obama ordered economic sanctions against nearly two dozen members of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s inner circle and a major bank that provided them support, raising the stakes in an East-West showdown over Ukraine.

In 2017, U.S. Supreme Court nominee&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/423b14b3ac454920b4b0bedba009b476">Neil Gorsuch pledged to be independent</a>&nbsp;or “hang up the robe” as the Senate began confirmation hearings on President Donald Trump’s conservative pick for the nation’s highest bench.

In 2018, in a phone call to Vladimir Putin, President Donald Trump offered&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-b050254e616a46d686e88112d8168a93">congratulations on Putin’s re-election victory</a>; a senior official said Trump had been warned in briefing materials that he should not congratulate Putin.

In 2020, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/3f95f06cca841a929f46535bc9cc5b43">governor of Illinois ordered residents to remain in their homes&nbsp;</a>except for essential needs, joining similar efforts in California and New York to limit the spread of the coronavirus. Stocks tumbled again on Wall Street, ending their worst week since the 2008 financial crisis; the Dow fell more than 900 points to end the week with a 17% loss.

In 2022, Ukrainian authorities said<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-zelenskyy-kyiv-business-europe-7d2f30478f5fb2d80ba6c38fef38129a">&nbsp;Russia’s military bombed an art school sheltering about 400 people</a>&nbsp;in the port city of Mariupol, where refugees described how “battles took place over every street,” weeks into a devastating siege.

In 2023, Russian President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-china-xi-putin-meeting-d989e5c65ff762c1af91215d6dd2cf6e">Vladimir Putin welcomed Chinese leader Xi Jinping</a>&nbsp;to the Kremlin, sending a powerful message to Western leaders that their efforts to isolate Moscow over the fighting in Ukraine have fallen short.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710940977694.png" alt="Attorney Barry Levin, left, defendant Erik Menendez, center, and attorney Leslie Abramson listen as the verdicts are read at the Van Nuys Superior Court in Los Angeles, Wednesday, March 20, 1996. Erik Mendendez and his brother Lyle were found guilty of first-degree murder and conspiracy for the 1989 shotgun murders of their parents Kitty and Jose Menendez. In the background is Superior Court Judge Stanley Weisberg. (AP Photo/Hans Gutknecht, Pool)" />
 <figcaption>Attorney Barry Levin, left, defendant Erik Menendez, center, and attorney Leslie Abramson listen as the verdicts are read at the Van Nuys Superior Court in Los Angeles, Wednesday, March 20, 1996. Erik Mendendez and his brother Lyle were found guilty of first-degree murder and conspiracy for the 1989 shotgun murders of their parents Kitty and Jose Menendez. In the background is Superior Court Judge Stanley Weisberg. (AP Photo/Hans Gutknecht, Pool)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Today in History:</h2>On March 20, 1996, a jury in Los Angeles convicted Erik and Lyle Menendez of first-degree murder in the shotgun slayings of their wealthy parents. (They were sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.)<h2>On this date:</h2>In 1413, England’s King Henry IV died; he was succeeded by Henry V.In 1815, Napoleon Bonaparte returned to Paris after escaping his exile on Elba, beginning his “Hundred Days” rule.In 1852, Harriet Beecher Stowe’s influential novel about slavery, “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” was first published in book form after being serialized.In 1854, the Republican Party of the United States was founded by slavery opponents at a schoolhouse in Ripon, Wisconsin.In 1922, the decommissioned USS Jupiter, converted into the first U.S. Navy aircraft carrier, was recommissioned as the USS Langley.In 1952, the U.S. Senate ratified, 66-10, a Security Treaty with Japan.In 1969, John Lennon married Yoko Ono in Gibraltar.In 1976, kidnapped newspaper heiress Patricia Hearst was convicted of armed robbery for her part in a San Francisco bank holdup carried out by the Symbionese Liberation Army. (Hearst was sentenced to seven years in prison; she was released after serving 22 months, and was pardoned in 2001 by President Bill Clinton.)In 1995, in Tokyo, 12 people were killed, more than 5,500 others sickened when packages containing the deadly chemical sarin were leaked on five separate subway trains by Aum Shinrikyo (ohm shin-ree-kyoh) cult members.In 2013, making his first visit to Israel since taking office, President Barack Obama affirmed Israel’s sovereign right to defend itself from any threat and vowed to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.In 2014, President Barack Obama ordered economic sanctions against nearly two dozen members of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s inner circle and a major bank that provided them support, raising the stakes in an East-West showdown over Ukraine.In 2017, U.S. Supreme Court nominee&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/423b14b3ac454920b4b0bedba009b476">Neil Gorsuch pledged to be independent</a>&nbsp;or “hang up the robe” as the Senate began confirmation hearings on President Donald Trump’s conservative pick for the nation’s highest bench.In 2018, in a phone call to Vladimir Putin, President Donald Trump offered&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-b050254e616a46d686e88112d8168a93">congratulations on Putin’s re-election victory</a>; a senior official said Trump had been warned in briefing materials that he should not congratulate Putin.In 2020, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/3f95f06cca841a929f46535bc9cc5b43">governor of Illinois ordered residents to remain in their homes&nbsp;</a>except for essential needs, joining similar efforts in California and New York to limit the spread of the coronavirus. Stocks tumbled again on Wall Street, ending their worst week since the 2008 financial crisis; the Dow fell more than 900 points to end the week with a 17% loss.In 2022, Ukrainian authorities said<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-zelenskyy-kyiv-business-europe-7d2f30478f5fb2d80ba6c38fef38129a">&nbsp;Russia’s military bombed an art school sheltering about 400 people</a>&nbsp;in the port city of Mariupol, where refugees described how “battles took place over every street,” weeks into a devastating siege.In 2023, Russian President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-china-xi-putin-meeting-d989e5c65ff762c1af91215d6dd2cf6e">Vladimir Putin welcomed Chinese leader Xi Jinping</a>&nbsp;to the Kremlin, sending a powerful message to Western leaders that their efforts to isolate Moscow over the fighting in Ukraine have fallen short.

Today in History, March 20

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Contempt of Court; Direct

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

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Failure to Appear and Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Rivas Martinez, Jose Miguel

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Driving While Suspended, Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance and Special Speed Limitations Applicable to Certain Vehicles

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/2024/3/1710936589768.png" alt="Ebinger, Casey Allan" />
 <figcaption>Ebinger, Casey Allan</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Ebinger, Casey AllanREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Contempt of Court; Direct<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710936638655.png" alt="McCarter, Christopher Lee" />
 <figcaption>McCarter, Christopher Lee</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;McCarter, Christopher LeeREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Failure to Appear and Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710936687036.png" alt="Mitcheam, George Curtis" />
 <figcaption>Mitcheam, George Curtis</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Mitcheam, George CurtisREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710936747326.png" alt="Rivas Martinez, Jose Miguel" />
 <figcaption>Rivas Martinez, Jose Miguel</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Rivas Martinez, Jose MiguelREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Failure to Appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710936790186.png" alt="Viayra, Michael Raymond" />
 <figcaption>Viayra, Michael Raymond</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Viayra, Michael RaymondREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Driving While Suspended, Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance and Special Speed Limitations Applicable to Certain Vehicles

Saline County Jail Bookings, March 20

LAWRENCE — Preliminary groundwater level measurements compiled by the Kansas Geological Survey show mixed results for western and south-central Kansas in 2023, with some areas in the northwest and west-central part of the state experiencing increases for the first time in three or more years.

“In the Ogallala portion of the High Plains aquifer, the aquifer had a chance to ‘reset’ in 2023, given some timely rains in the summer months,” said Brownie Wilson, KGS water-data manager.

Measurements in those areas reflect a rebound from lower-than-normal groundwater levels caused by the extreme drought conditions seen in 2022.

“Unfortunately, south-central Kansas missed out on those rains, and the dry conditions persist today,” Wilson said.

The KGS, based at the University of Kansas, and the Division of Water Resources (DWR) of the Kansas Department of Agriculture measure water levels in about 1,400 wells every year to monitor the health of the High Plains aquifer and other aquifers in western and south-central Kansas.

Those measurements showed an overall average decline of 0.17 feet last year, marking the fourth straight year of overall declines. Groundwater levels across the region fell 1.9 feet in 2022, about a foot in 2021 and 0.87 feet in 2020.

The High Plains aquifer is a network of water-bearing rock that extends into eight states. In Kansas, the aquifer comprises three components – the Ogallala aquifer, the Great Bend Prairie aquifer and the Equus Beds. Of these, the Ogallala underlies most of western Kansas and consists mainly of the Ogallala Formation, a geologic unit that formed from sediment eroded off the uplifting Rocky Mountains.&nbsp;

Most of the wells in the network monitored by the KGS and DWR are within the boundaries of the state’s five groundwater management districts, which are organized and governed by area landowners and local water users to address water-resources issues.

Northwest Kansas GMD 4, which saw well-above-average precipitation in 2023, experienced the largest increase in water levels, at 0.35 feet, after declines of 1.32 feet in 2022 and 0.55 feet in 2021. Groundwater levels last increased in the district, by 0.61 feet, in 2019. GMD 4 covers Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, and parts of Cheyenne, Decatur, Gove, Graham, Logan, Rawlins and Wallace counties. Groundwater there is pumped from the Ogallala aquifer and shallow alluvial sources associated with streams.

Western Kansas GMD 1, where the majority of wells are drilled into the Ogallala aquifer, also saw an overall average increase of 0.27 feet, following declines of 1.13 feet in 2022 and 0.55 feet in 2021. The monitoring program has recorded increases in district water levels only three times since 1996, the last time in 2004. GMD 1 includes portions of Greeley, Lane, Scott, Wallace and Wichita counties. Water levels in the district, one of the first areas of the state to have large-capacity wells drilled in the 1940s-1950s, have fallen to a point that yields for irrigation have greatly diminished.

“Another factor in play is both GMDs 1 and 4 have active enhanced management plans in place to conserve water. Initial studies have shown water users are reducing both total amounts diverted and how much is applied to irrigated fields,” Wilson said.&nbsp;

In Southwest Kansas GMD 3, average groundwater levels declined by 0.19 feet. The region experienced the most severe drought conditions in the state in 2022, with widespread areas receiving 50% to 75% of long-term precipitation averages. The same area in 2023 saw above-average precipitation amounts of up to 150% to 200% of normal. Much of that came during the growing months of April through July.

“The timeliness and gentle nature of the precipitation events allowed many producers to shut down their wells for several weeks, which in turn reduces the overall stress on the aquifer,” Wilson said.

Water levels in GMD 3 declined by 2.83 feet in 2022 and 2.08 feet in 2021. The district includes all or part of Finney, Ford, Grant, Gray, Hamilton, Haskell, Kearny, Meade, Morton, Seward, Stanton and Stevens counties. Most of the wells monitored in the district are drilled into the Ogallala aquifer, except in a few areas where they can also draw from the deeper Dakota aquifer.

Water levels in south-central Kansas saw a second straight year of larger than normal decline rates amid continuing drought conditions.

Equus Beds GMD 2, a significant source of water for Wichita, Hutchinson and surrounding towns, experienced the largest drop at 1.62 feet, after declines of 2.11 feet in 2022 and 0.14 feet in 2021. GMD 2 covers portions of Harvey, McPherson, Reno and Sedgwick counties.

Water levels in Big Bend GMD 5, centered on the Great Bend Prairie aquifer, fell 1.12 feet in 2023, following declines of 2.32 feet in 2022 and 0.81 feet in 2021. GMD 5 includes Pratt and Stafford counties and parts of Barton, Edwards, Kiowa, Pawnee, Reno and Rice counties.

"Despite the prolonged drought conditions and lingering groundwater declines, both districts have a greater potential to recover when the rains do return,” Wilson said.

The KGS measured 577 wells in western Kansas, and DWR staff from field offices in Stockton, Garden City and Stafford measured 221, 264 and 350 wells, respectively, in western and south-central Kansas. Most of the wells, spread over 49 counties, are used for irrigation and have been measured for decades with landowners’ permission.

Measurements are taken primarily in January, when water levels are least likely to fluctuate due to seasonal irrigation. The measurement results, available on the KGS&nbsp;<a href="https://geohydro.kgs.ku.edu/geohydro/wizard/">Water Well Levels web page</a>, are provisional and subject to revision based on additional analysis.

The Kansas Geological Survey is a nonregulatory research and service division of the University of Kansas. KGS researchers study and provide information about the state’s geologic resources and hazards, including groundwater, oil and natural gas, rocks and minerals, and earthquakes.

University of KansasLAWRENCE — Preliminary groundwater level measurements compiled by the Kansas Geological Survey show mixed results for western and south-central Kansas in 2023, with some areas in the northwest and west-central part of the state experiencing increases for the first time in three or more years.“In the Ogallala portion of the High Plains aquifer, the aquifer had a chance to ‘reset’ in 2023, given some timely rains in the summer months,” said Brownie Wilson, KGS water-data manager.Measurements in those areas reflect a rebound from lower-than-normal groundwater levels caused by the extreme drought conditions seen in 2022.“Unfortunately, south-central Kansas missed out on those rains, and the dry conditions persist today,” Wilson said.The KGS, based at the University of Kansas, and the Division of Water Resources (DWR) of the Kansas Department of Agriculture measure water levels in about 1,400 wells every year to monitor the health of the High Plains aquifer and other aquifers in western and south-central Kansas.Those measurements showed an overall average decline of 0.17 feet last year, marking the fourth straight year of overall declines. Groundwater levels across the region fell 1.9 feet in 2022, about a foot in 2021 and 0.87 feet in 2020.The High Plains aquifer is a network of water-bearing rock that extends into eight states. In Kansas, the aquifer comprises three components – the Ogallala aquifer, the Great Bend Prairie aquifer and the Equus Beds. Of these, the Ogallala underlies most of western Kansas and consists mainly of the Ogallala Formation, a geologic unit that formed from sediment eroded off the uplifting Rocky Mountains.&nbsp;Most of the wells in the network monitored by the KGS and DWR are within the boundaries of the state’s five groundwater management districts, which are organized and governed by area landowners and local water users to address water-resources issues.Northwest Kansas GMD 4, which saw well-above-average precipitation in 2023, experienced the largest increase in water levels, at 0.35 feet, after declines of 1.32 feet in 2022 and 0.55 feet in 2021. Groundwater levels last increased in the district, by 0.61 feet, in 2019. GMD 4 covers Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, and parts of Cheyenne, Decatur, Gove, Graham, Logan, Rawlins and Wallace counties. Groundwater there is pumped from the Ogallala aquifer and shallow alluvial sources associated with streams.Western Kansas GMD 1, where the majority of wells are drilled into the Ogallala aquifer, also saw an overall average increase of 0.27 feet, following declines of 1.13 feet in 2022 and 0.55 feet in 2021. The monitoring program has recorded increases in district water levels only three times since 1996, the last time in 2004. GMD 1 includes portions of Greeley, Lane, Scott, Wallace and Wichita counties. Water levels in the district, one of the first areas of the state to have large-capacity wells drilled in the 1940s-1950s, have fallen to a point that yields for irrigation have greatly diminished.“Another factor in play is both GMDs 1 and 4 have active enhanced management plans in place to conserve water. Initial studies have shown water users are reducing both total amounts diverted and how much is applied to irrigated fields,” Wilson said.&nbsp;In Southwest Kansas GMD 3, average groundwater levels declined by 0.19 feet. The region experienced the most severe drought conditions in the state in 2022, with widespread areas receiving 50% to 75% of long-term precipitation averages. The same area in 2023 saw above-average precipitation amounts of up to 150% to 200% of normal. Much of that came during the growing months of April through July.“The timeliness and gentle nature of the precipitation events allowed many producers to shut down their wells for several weeks, which in turn reduces the overall stress on the aquifer,” Wilson said.Water levels in GMD 3 declined by 2.83 feet in 2022 and 2.08 feet in 2021. The district includes all or part of Finney, Ford, Grant, Gray, Hamilton, Haskell, Kearny, Meade, Morton, Seward, Stanton and Stevens counties. Most of the wells monitored in the district are drilled into the Ogallala aquifer, except in a few areas where they can also draw from the deeper Dakota aquifer.Water levels in south-central Kansas saw a second straight year of larger than normal decline rates amid continuing drought conditions.Equus Beds GMD 2, a significant source of water for Wichita, Hutchinson and surrounding towns, experienced the largest drop at 1.62 feet, after declines of 2.11 feet in 2022 and 0.14 feet in 2021. GMD 2 covers portions of Harvey, McPherson, Reno and Sedgwick counties.Water levels in Big Bend GMD 5, centered on the Great Bend Prairie aquifer, fell 1.12 feet in 2023, following declines of 2.32 feet in 2022 and 0.81 feet in 2021. GMD 5 includes Pratt and Stafford counties and parts of Barton, Edwards, Kiowa, Pawnee, Reno and Rice counties."Despite the prolonged drought conditions and lingering groundwater declines, both districts have a greater potential to recover when the rains do return,” Wilson said.The KGS measured 577 wells in western Kansas, and DWR staff from field offices in Stockton, Garden City and Stafford measured 221, 264 and 350 wells, respectively, in western and south-central Kansas. Most of the wells, spread over 49 counties, are used for irrigation and have been measured for decades with landowners’ permission.Measurements are taken primarily in January, when water levels are least likely to fluctuate due to seasonal irrigation. The measurement results, available on the KGS&nbsp;<a href="https://geohydro.kgs.ku.edu/geohydro/wizard/">Water Well Levels web page</a>, are provisional and subject to revision based on additional analysis.The Kansas Geological Survey is a nonregulatory research and service division of the University of Kansas. KGS researchers study and provide information about the state’s geologic resources and hazards, including groundwater, oil and natural gas, rocks and minerals, and earthquakes.

Groundwater survey shows 'mixed' results in western Kansas

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Curtis Wolf, site manager at Fort Hays State University’s Kansas Wetlands Education Center at Cheyenne Bottoms.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JsvYviWXZ40?si=ipZDW49WXxoPMfq3" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Curtis Wolf, site manager at Fort Hays State University’s Kansas Wetlands Education Center at Cheyenne Bottoms.

🎤Forward Ever: Kansas Wetlands Education Center manager Curtis Wolf

Warmer weather arrives today, Tuesday, with rain chances increasing late Wednesday through early Thursday over southern Kansas.&nbsp;

Despite the warmer temperatures, remember that we remain susceptible to freezing temperatures well into April, and on rare years even into May. A heads up for those with gardening and planting interests. Below shows the typical last spring freeze date.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710864226143.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy NWS-Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy NWS-Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>NWS-WichitaWarmer weather arrives today, Tuesday, with rain chances increasing late Wednesday through early Thursday over southern Kansas.&nbsp;Despite the warmer temperatures, remember that we remain susceptible to freezing temperatures well into April, and on rare years even into May. A heads up for those with gardening and planting interests. Below shows the typical last spring freeze date.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710864061192.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy NWS-Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy NWS-Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>

NWS-Wichita four day weather forecast, last spring freeze date

News from the Oil Patch, Mar 18 John P. Tretbar

Kansas crude prices are down slightly after reaching their peak for the month last week.&nbsp; Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $71.25 per barrel after dropping 25 cents Friday. That's up a dollar from the first of the month and more than $11 dollars higher that at the first of the year. The near-month contract for light sweet crude on the Nymex settled Friday over $81 per barrel for the second day in a row, and only the second time this year. Prices were up two percent by lunchtime Monday. Nymex crude was trading over $82 a barrel and London Brent was over $86.

The latest lease sale announced by the government under the Inflation Reduction Act will include parcels in northwestern Kansas. According to the announcement from the Bureau of Land Management, this sale includes 18 parcels in New Mexico and eight in Cheyenne County, Kansas. The 30-day public protest period to receive additional public input will close April 10th, with the sale scheduled to follow on June 13th.

Statewide well-completions so far this year are running about half of the pace set last year. But the weekly report from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service shows more completions than in any week since before the pandemic. Operators completed 62 wells across Kansas in the week through March 14, the most since January of 2019.&nbsp; Out of 62 wells completed last week, just eight were dry holes. The last time operators filed that many completion reports, five years ago, the percentage of dry holes was much greater, 20 dry holes out of the 66 newly completed wells reported.

Kansas regulators okayed 15 new drilling locations last week, including one new permit in Barton County. That's 173 drilling permits so far this year, compared to 254 by this time last year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Mar 18 John P. TretbarKansas crude prices are down slightly after reaching their peak for the month last week.&nbsp; Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $71.25 per barrel after dropping 25 cents Friday. That's up a dollar from the first of the month and more than $11 dollars higher that at the first of the year. The near-month contract for light sweet crude on the Nymex settled Friday over $81 per barrel for the second day in a row, and only the second time this year. Prices were up two percent by lunchtime Monday. Nymex crude was trading over $82 a barrel and London Brent was over $86.The latest lease sale announced by the government under the Inflation Reduction Act will include parcels in northwestern Kansas. According to the announcement from the Bureau of Land Management, this sale includes 18 parcels in New Mexico and eight in Cheyenne County, Kansas. The 30-day public protest period to receive additional public input will close April 10th, with the sale scheduled to follow on June 13th.Statewide well-completions so far this year are running about half of the pace set last year. But the weekly report from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service shows more completions than in any week since before the pandemic. Operators completed 62 wells across Kansas in the week through March 14, the most since January of 2019.&nbsp; Out of 62 wells completed last week, just eight were dry holes. The last time operators filed that many completion reports, five years ago, the percentage of dry holes was much greater, 20 dry holes out of the 66 newly completed wells reported.Kansas regulators okayed 15 new drilling locations last week, including one new permit in Barton County. That's 173 drilling permits so far this year, compared to 254 by this time last year.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes rose by seven rigs from a week earlier. The count in Louisiana was up five rigs, Texas was up three and New Mexico was up one. Oklahoma was down one rig. The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service notes 18 active rigs in Western Kansas, which is up three for the week. Drilling was underway or about to start on leases in Barton and Stafford counties.U.S. operators exported a record 1.9 million barrels of propane per day in December. That's the largest such tally since 1973, when the government started keeping track. The Energy Information Administration reports the spike in exports stems mainly from the huge price spread between the U.S. Gulf Coast and from East Asia, the biggest spread in ten years.&nbsp; During the second half of last year, Saudi propane exports to Asia fell by 22%, while U.S. exports to Asia grew six percent.Crude exports set a record last year, up 13% from the previous record set the year before. The government says exports for the year averaged over four million barrels per day.&nbsp; The Energy Information Administration says U.S. sales abroad have increased in every year since the ban on most exports was lifted in 2015.&nbsp; The new report from EIA suggests record-high production is supporting the spike in exports. Many U.S. refineries are optimized to run heavy, sour crude, while much of the output here in the U.S. is light, sweet crude. The report suggests this creates export incentives.The government says both crude imports and exports dropped last week.*U.S. crude oil imports averaged 5.5 million barrels per day last week, a decline of 1.7 million barrels per day from the previous week. Over the past four weeks, crude oil imports averaged about 6.4 million barrels per day. That's 183-thousand barrels or nearly three percent higher than the same four-week average last year.*Crude-oil exports dropped last week by nearly 1.5 million barrels per day. The EIA says operators shipped out of country 3,147,000 barrels per day in the week through March 8. The four-week average for crude exports drops to 4.3 million barrels per day, down about six percent from the four-week average a year ago.Output from the U.S. oil patch slid back from recent record highs but remained above 13 million barrels per day for a seventh straight week. U.S. crude production dropped last week by more than 100,000 barrels per day from the week before, to 13,132,000 barrels per day. Current output beats the same week a year ago by 888,000 barrels per day. Average production over the last four weeks reached 13,225,000 barrels per day, which is up eight percent from a year ago.Domestic crude inventories dropped by 1.5 million barrels last week. The Energy Information Administration reports stockpiles of 447 million barrels as of March 8.&nbsp; EIA said inventories are about three percent below the five-year average for this time of year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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