Equip Yourself with the Knowledge and Tools to Become a More Confident and Effective Parent

Are you looking for ways to help your children learn and grow? Salina Public Schools and Saline County are offering free training through the social-emotional program, Conscious Discipline. This eight week e-learning course will equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to become a more confident and effective parent.

The course consists of three, eight-week sessions, each offered at different times for your convenience. The content is the same in all sessions and registration closes one week before the first day of class for each session. 

Mondays from 5:30-7:30 p.m., September 11 – October 30

Saturdays 9-11:00 a.m., September 16 – November 4

Thursdays 6-8:00 p.m., September 21 – November 9 

Free childcare is also available at each session, although spaces are limited and vary by location. All adults are welcome to attend this free training regardless of their background or experience level.

Through this program, we will learn behavior management strategies that anyone can use to turn everyday situations into learning opportunities. Embracing effective behavior management strategies is a transformative step toward creating a positive and nurturing environment for our children.

 As Jody Craddock-Iselin, Director of Support Services at Salina Public Schools said, “By disciplining ourselves to become lifelong learners, we empower our children to grow into resilient, compassionate, and responsible individuals.” And there has never been a better time than now to do just that!

Register at the district website, <a href="http://usd305.com">usd305.com</a>. For more information or questions about this free training opportunity from Conscious Discipline, please contact Jody at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jody.craddockiselin@usd305.com">jody.craddockiselin@usd305.com</a>.

<h2>Equip Yourself with the Knowledge and Tools to Become a More Confident and Effective Parent</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692631830572.png" alt="Conscious Discipline Graphic. Image Courtesy Salina Public Schools" />
 <figcaption>Conscious Discipline Graphic. Image Courtesy Salina Public Schools</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedAre you looking for ways to help your children learn and grow? Salina Public Schools and Saline County are offering free training through the social-emotional program, Conscious Discipline. This eight week e-learning course will equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to become a more confident and effective parent.The course consists of three, eight-week sessions, each offered at different times for your convenience. The content is the same in all sessions and registration closes one week before the first day of class for each session. <h2>Sessions take place on:</h2>Mondays from 5:30-7:30 p.m., September 11 – October 30Saturdays 9-11:00 a.m., September 16 – November 4Thursdays 6-8:00 p.m., September 21 – November 9 Free childcare is also available at each session, although spaces are limited and vary by location. All adults are welcome to attend this free training regardless of their background or experience level.Through this program, we will learn behavior management strategies that anyone can use to turn everyday situations into learning opportunities. Embracing effective behavior management strategies is a transformative step toward creating a positive and nurturing environment for our children. As Jody Craddock-Iselin, Director of Support Services at Salina Public Schools said, “By disciplining ourselves to become lifelong learners, we empower our children to grow into resilient, compassionate, and responsible individuals.” And there has never been a better time than now to do just that!Register at the district website, <a href="http://usd305.com">usd305.com</a>. For more information or questions about this free training opportunity from Conscious Discipline, please contact Jody at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jody.craddockiselin@usd305.com">jody.craddockiselin@usd305.com</a>.

USD 305 announces conscious discipline training available to parents

Submitted&nbsp; 24/7 Travel Store kicks off its annual Food Bank Fill-Up campaign today.&nbsp; The program will run all month long in recognition of National Hunger Awareness Month and in support of nine Kansas food banks. In its 6th year, the program has returned with&nbsp;a goal to raise another $60,000 ($6,000 per store) in the fight against hunger.

“We are anticipating another successful year with this program. Last year was the program’s 5th anniversary and we were blown away by the support we received. We raised over $71,000 for the nine Kansas communities we serve. It was our most successful campaign to date. Since the program began in 2018, we’ve raised over a quarter million dollars in support of our local food banks. Our day-to-day business offers services to fuel vehicles— hosting the Food Bank Fill-Up allows us to support organizations— your local food bank, that offers services that fuel the human body. We are driving out hunger— together,” said Jackie Hynes, Director of Marketing.

On September 23, National Hunger Action Day— for one day only, 24/7 Travel Store locations will have food bank representatives onsite during select times accepting food items and monetary donations.&nbsp; “We encourage community members to plan their giving on this day, if possible. To take the opportunity to come inside and visit with their local food bank representative. Perhaps learn other ways they can be supportive or calm any doubts about the Food Bank Fill-Up funds donated staying local. We hosted this event last year and it was our biggest fundraising day, bringing in $3,674 collectively.” said Hynes.&nbsp; To learn what time your local food bank representative will be available in- store, follow the 24/7 Travel Store Facebook page.&nbsp; “We will be posting those details soon.” said Hynes.

To support this cause, stop at any 24/7 Travel Store, September 1 – 30, and make a monetary donation. If you’d like to learn more about this event, check out the 24/7 Travel Store Facebook Page.

To date, this annual event has raised $262,502 to support local food banks (2018-2022).

24/7 Travel Store supports the following &nbsp;Kansas Food Banks:

• Abilene Area Food &amp; Clothing Bank (Abilene) 

• Community Care Ministries (Maple Hill) 

• Genesis Food Pantry of Sherman County (Goodland)

 • Genesis Food Pantry of Thomas County (Colby) 

• McPherson County Food Bank (McPherson)

 • Russell County Food Pantry (Russell) 

• Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank (Salina)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692628319512.jpeg" alt="24/7 Fundraiser flyer" />
 <figcaption>24/7 Fundraiser flyer</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted&nbsp; 24/7 Travel Store kicks off its annual Food Bank Fill-Up campaign today.&nbsp; The program will run all month long in recognition of National Hunger Awareness Month and in support of nine Kansas food banks. In its 6th year, the program has returned with&nbsp;a goal to raise another $60,000 ($6,000 per store) in the fight against hunger.“We are anticipating another successful year with this program. Last year was the program’s 5th anniversary and we were blown away by the support we received. We raised over $71,000 for the nine Kansas communities we serve. It was our most successful campaign to date. Since the program began in 2018, we’ve raised over a quarter million dollars in support of our local food banks. Our day-to-day business offers services to fuel vehicles— hosting the Food Bank Fill-Up allows us to support organizations— your local food bank, that offers services that fuel the human body. We are driving out hunger— together,” said Jackie Hynes, Director of Marketing.On September 23, National Hunger Action Day— for one day only, 24/7 Travel Store locations will have food bank representatives onsite during select times accepting food items and monetary donations.&nbsp; “We encourage community members to plan their giving on this day, if possible. To take the opportunity to come inside and visit with their local food bank representative. Perhaps learn other ways they can be supportive or calm any doubts about the Food Bank Fill-Up funds donated staying local. We hosted this event last year and it was our biggest fundraising day, bringing in $3,674 collectively.” said Hynes.&nbsp; To learn what time your local food bank representative will be available in- store, follow the 24/7 Travel Store Facebook page.&nbsp; “We will be posting those details soon.” said Hynes.To support this cause, stop at any 24/7 Travel Store, September 1 – 30, and make a monetary donation. If you’d like to learn more about this event, check out the 24/7 Travel Store Facebook Page.To date, this annual event has raised $262,502 to support local food banks (2018-2022).24/7 Travel Store supports the following &nbsp;Kansas Food Banks:• Abilene Area Food &amp; Clothing Bank (Abilene) • Community Care Ministries (Maple Hill) • Genesis Food Pantry of Sherman County (Goodland) • Genesis Food Pantry of Thomas County (Colby) • McPherson County Food Bank (McPherson) • Russell County Food Pantry (Russell) • Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank (Salina) • Trego County Food Pantry (WaKeeney)

24/7 Travel Store kicks off annual food bank fill-up

In observance of the Labor Day Holiday, the 910KINA Saturday Morning Show with Dave and Sam will return on Sept. 9.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625885773462.jpeg" alt="KINA logo sq.jpg" />
 <figcaption>KINA logo sq.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>In observance of the Labor Day Holiday, the 910KINA Saturday Morning Show with Dave and Sam will return on Sept. 9. There will be no show on Sept. 2.

910 Saturday Morning Show returns Sept 9

On Tuesday through Thursday, September 5th through 7th, APAC Shears of Salina will continue the City of Salina’s annual ultrathin bonded asphalt surface project.

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

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

The $759,000 project is a major part of the City of Salina’s $4.7 million 2023 maintenance capital improvement program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693575819790.jpeg" alt="ultrathin asphalt bonding schedule " />
 <figcaption>ultrathin asphalt bonding schedule </figcaption>
 </figure>On Tuesday through Thursday, September 5th through 7th, APAC Shears of Salina will continue the City of Salina’s annual ultrathin bonded asphalt surface project.Motorists are urged to avoid work zones altogether or proceed with caution for the safety of the crews performing the work.This type of preventative maintenance is fairly new to Salina but has been used to help extend the life of many roads around the State of Kansas. It consists of a thin, coarse aggregate hot mix over a special asphalt membrane similar to a chip seal but placed in one pass with a spray paver. The membrane prevents water intrusion and provides a superior bond to the old asphalt. The overlay can disperse water quickly off the surface, which reduces roadway spray from vehicles and provides greater visibility and traction in wet weather. UBAS has performed well for other cities and provides a good friction surface in wet weather.The $759,000 project is a major part of the City of Salina’s $4.7 million 2023 maintenance capital improvement program.

 2023 ultrathin bonded asphalt surface placement continues

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

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

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Battery on LEO; Phys contact county/city LEO,&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor,&nbsp;Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circ; misd

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): damage to property, misdemeanor&nbsp;

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

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear,&nbsp;Agg battery; Knowingly use deadly weapon,&nbsp;Aggravated robbery

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Disorderly conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct to cause resentment,&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body,&nbsp;Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): probation violation&nbsp;

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County JailAll persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688562049999.png" alt="Bookings No Image Available" />
 <figcaption>Bookings No Image Available</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Abrego-Salas,Erick OswaldoREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Battery on LEO; Phys contact county/city LEO,&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor,&nbsp;Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circ; misd<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693574552461.jpeg" alt="Aronson,Andrew Jordan" />
 <figcaption>Aronson,Andrew Jordan</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:Aronson,Andrew JordanREQUESTED CHARGE(S): damage to property, misdemeanor&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693574615223.jpeg" alt=" Beckwith,Reagan Danyale" />
 <figcaption> Beckwith,Reagan Danyale</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:Beckwith,Reagan DanyaleREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Contempt of Court, direct&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693574668274.jpeg" alt="Degener,Jason Edward" />
 <figcaption>Degener,Jason Edward</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Degener,Jason EdwardREQUESTED CHARGE(S): failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693574730901.jpeg" alt=" Hahn,Jerrod Luke" />
 <figcaption> Hahn,Jerrod Luke</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Hahn,Jerrod LukeREQUESTED CHARGE(S): failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693574800210.jpeg" alt="Lovelace,Burney Sage" />
 <figcaption>Lovelace,Burney Sage</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:Lovelace,Burney SageREQUESTED CHARGE(S): outside warrant<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693574843745.jpeg" alt=" Lyle,Devin Joe" />
 <figcaption> Lyle,Devin Joe</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Lyle,Devin JoeREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693574996841.jpeg" alt="Picking,Matthew Scott" />
 <figcaption>Picking,Matthew Scott</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:Picking,Matthew ScottREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear,&nbsp;Agg battery; Knowingly use deadly weapon,&nbsp;Aggravated robbery<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688562049999.png" alt="Bookings No Image Available" />
 <figcaption>Bookings No Image Available</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:Sherrer,Ashley MarieREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Disorderly conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct to cause resentment,&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body,&nbsp;Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693575148327.jpeg" alt="Smith,Chloe Renee" />
 <figcaption>Smith,Chloe Renee</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Smith,Chloe ReneeREQUESTED CHARGE(S): probation violation&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693575195194.jpeg" alt="Viar,Lance Edward" />
 <figcaption>Viar,Lance Edward</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Viar,Lance EdwardREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation

Saline County Booking Activity, Sept. 1

Hot temperatures will accompany Labor Day weekend with temperatures in the 90s to near 100 degrees.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693572810683.jpeg" alt="Labor Day Holiday forecast 2023" />
 <figcaption>Labor Day Holiday forecast 2023</figcaption>
 </figure>Hot temperatures will accompany Labor Day weekend with temperatures in the 90s to near 100 degrees.

NWS-Wichita: Holiday weekend forecast

The 2023 Battle of the Badges was a successful blood drive campaign.&nbsp; Teri Novotny, account manager, Red Cross Central Plains Blood Services Region said 400 people donated at the event for a total of 151 units of blood donated.

The bragging rights and commemorative plaque for this year’s Battle of the Badges went to Salina Fire.

Blood donations to the American Red Cross help ensure new moms, premature babies, cancer patients, and accident victims have access to safe, lifesaving blood. The American Red Cross provides about 40 percent of the nation’s blood supply.&nbsp;

Eligible individuals are encouraged to schedule a blood or platelet donation appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor app, visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://redcrossblood.org/">RedCrossBlood.org</a>&nbsp;or calling 800- RED-CROSS (<a href="tel:800-733-2767">800-733-2767</a>).&nbsp;

The American Red Cross has seen a shortfall of about 25,000 blood donations in the first two months of the summer, which makes it hard to keep hospital shelves stocked with lifesaving blood products.&nbsp;By making an appointment to give blood or platelets in August, donors can keep the national blood supply from falling to shortage levels.

Right now, the Red Cross especially needs type O negative, type O positive, type B negative and type A negative blood donors, as well as platelet donors. For those who don’t know their blood type, making a donation is an easy way to find out this important personal health information. The Red Cross will notify new donors of their blood type soon after they give.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9nAk-2BdoMpFHABCOsrA-2BSZnjsmu5onQGZP1RTpkUi1o9RJg5s_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmlbd15AiojmovC2TovaCUAYI0sLBkXBHLbaB8E-2B02jJ-2F-2Bm3KncHKrB4SzfsLxHn0tb9rUQ0flGHfipESgu4PcG5-2F0SH9sAKr4w26bW4uiJthi-2F0okgsBEWbrQz6rJC5aSdwBwd92Cz87VYj0cczJ4xlHD9RsVMTojykNdP61xl3Cw-2B86oDZ-2FvS6ESf2HmJaDr8DJ-2F0uKBnXdX2g5vRW2MkxfGLEajrrE-2B8MvoLFLFLXA-3D" target="_blank">redcrossblood.org</a>&nbsp;to see available appointments at the Wichita and Salina donor centers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

To make an appointment, simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit&nbsp;RedCrossBlood.org, call&nbsp;<a href="tel:1-800-RED CROSS">1-800-RED CROSS</a>&nbsp;(<a href="tel:1-800-733-2767">1-800-733-2767</a>) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age&nbsp;in most states&nbsp;(16 with parental consent&nbsp;where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

The American Red Cross is now welcoming more donors into its lifesaving mission through updated FDA blood donation eligibility guidelines that eliminate longstanding broad, time-based deferrals based on sexual orientation.&nbsp;

All donors will now answer the same eligibility questions and will be assessed for blood donation based on individual risk factors, not on sexual orientation. This change eliminates the FDA’s previous policy that deferred men who have sex with men from giving blood.

The Red Cross celebrates this historic move as significant progress and remains committed to achieving an inclusive blood donation process that treats all potential donors with equality and respect while maintaining the safety of the blood supply. The Red Cross is committed to achieving further progress and will continue to provide data to the FDA in support of making blood donation even more inclusive.

The Red Cross welcomes everyone who wishes to be part of our humanitarian mission. You can learn more about these updates as part of our&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcUhTKkx-2FAwCsJSNKY1husBEVQMi_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmlbd15AiojmovC2TovaCUAYI0sLBkXBHLbaB8E-2B02jJ-2F-2Bm3KncHKrB4SzfsLxHn0tb9rUQ0flGHfipESgu4PcGzNAhQlcPZiCLkOnatNoHetnD2uZdOvbWz2kXjIbHUw4dmFUuQUIVp8Blvjs-2BVCMmorlOZS7BSz6ke7Xc-2Fq47vOM9C8P4Sh5TX-2Bulb9Q6ucy1Pn5J-2FfiVtj6DKd4FKmWll9eXsfz66cviJty9ZPM-2B2g-3D" target="_blank">Eligibility FAQs</a>. There is also information specific to the LGBTQ+ community on our LGBTQ+ Donors page.

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9uVu9yMLdsagfAEqWunWbOc-3D2kNE_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmlbd15AiojmovC2TovaCUAYI0sLBkXBHLbaB8E-2B02jJ-2F-2Bm3KncHKrB4SzfsLxHn0tb9rUQ0flGHfipESgu4PcG7R9iHe-2BK0ELx3QQdMT0f4S0imVb64OAjrsqPFnt0Qfa6gN1kYtUBdG7Pq-2FTH-2FhSX7yiwtoyDo559wh-2FBCU7OdGim9jzb9v33Unv-2FqpyYhBpI85bx-2BQWE2-2BYRYYNnAv17aGjaEvtSjf0pKJvbmP4-2BgE-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9hg41TxzbcaEuXbjP9P1v-2F1xHqem5iGAmJXa3rg2nfp-2BKAT4_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmlbd15AiojmovC2TovaCUAYI0sLBkXBHLbaB8E-2B02jJ-2F-2Bm3KncHKrB4SzfsLxHn0tb9rUQ0flGHfipESgu4PcG4QEA6HIqJ6SwqwGRPizumfnXq74mdZEeUNQqJprhUS1SzmpwOW-2F1syfaT6nzOfdAij0efK9Zrl1VELJJqZTqangTdQMFMIKFkrwSDZHyIp8uXC-2FryqUlFJi2B3a-2FyDGGMRzACdWM6kuAeAVs6FkkTY-3D" target="_blank">CruzRojaAmericana.org</a>, or visit us on Twitter at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUTj7ls6yjkF4ngJDQgTglJjv5Gpj80-2FfQbBqIKNhJzgxttuB_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmlbd15AiojmovC2TovaCUAYI0sLBkXBHLbaB8E-2B02jJ-2F-2Bm3KncHKrB4SzfsLxHn0tb9rUQ0flGHfipESgu4PcG-2BIMQYfhNNssEF7NLUekYbJQy0PluO6WvRbuffAmMXdw-2BYZlc134kCutaWEpLoOJmhrYrDCYpeQzcatLObKUkhbaI8YXB5rC3llZliXrhiQ-2FYLKk-2FwBzuXCfs5EiVHYHns4RZM1qQDG7j94U0hb-2FI7M-3D" target="_blank">@RedCross</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693570725906.jpeg" alt="Battle of the Badges 2023 Image Courtesy Salina Fire" />
 <figcaption>Battle of the Badges 2023 Image Courtesy Salina Fire</figcaption>
 </figure>BY SALINA POSTThe 2023 Battle of the Badges was a successful blood drive campaign.&nbsp; Teri Novotny, account manager, Red Cross Central Plains Blood Services Region said 400 people donated at the event for a total of 151 units of blood donated.The bragging rights and commemorative plaque for this year’s Battle of the Badges went to Salina Fire.<h2>You can still donate!</h2>Blood donations to the American Red Cross help ensure new moms, premature babies, cancer patients, and accident victims have access to safe, lifesaving blood. The American Red Cross provides about 40 percent of the nation’s blood supply.&nbsp;Eligible individuals are encouraged to schedule a blood or platelet donation appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor app, visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://redcrossblood.org/">RedCrossBlood.org</a>&nbsp;or calling 800- RED-CROSS (<a href="tel:800-733-2767">800-733-2767</a>).&nbsp;The American Red Cross has seen a shortfall of about 25,000 blood donations in the first two months of the summer, which makes it hard to keep hospital shelves stocked with lifesaving blood products.&nbsp;By making an appointment to give blood or platelets in August, donors can keep the national blood supply from falling to shortage levels.Right now, the Red Cross especially needs type O negative, type O positive, type B negative and type A negative blood donors, as well as platelet donors. For those who don’t know their blood type, making a donation is an easy way to find out this important personal health information. The Red Cross will notify new donors of their blood type soon after they give.Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9nAk-2BdoMpFHABCOsrA-2BSZnjsmu5onQGZP1RTpkUi1o9RJg5s_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmlbd15AiojmovC2TovaCUAYI0sLBkXBHLbaB8E-2B02jJ-2F-2Bm3KncHKrB4SzfsLxHn0tb9rUQ0flGHfipESgu4PcG5-2F0SH9sAKr4w26bW4uiJthi-2F0okgsBEWbrQz6rJC5aSdwBwd92Cz87VYj0cczJ4xlHD9RsVMTojykNdP61xl3Cw-2B86oDZ-2FvS6ESf2HmJaDr8DJ-2F0uKBnXdX2g5vRW2MkxfGLEajrrE-2B8MvoLFLFLXA-3D" target="_blank">redcrossblood.org</a>&nbsp;to see available appointments at the Wichita and Salina donor centers.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>How to donate blood</h2>To make an appointment, simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit&nbsp;RedCrossBlood.org, call&nbsp;<a href="tel:1-800-RED CROSS">1-800-RED CROSS</a>&nbsp;(<a href="tel:1-800-733-2767">1-800-733-2767</a>) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age&nbsp;in most states&nbsp;(16 with parental consent&nbsp;where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.<h2>Historic change</h2>The American Red Cross is now welcoming more donors into its lifesaving mission through updated FDA blood donation eligibility guidelines that eliminate longstanding broad, time-based deferrals based on sexual orientation.&nbsp;All donors will now answer the same eligibility questions and will be assessed for blood donation based on individual risk factors, not on sexual orientation. This change eliminates the FDA’s previous policy that deferred men who have sex with men from giving blood.The Red Cross celebrates this historic move as significant progress and remains committed to achieving an inclusive blood donation process that treats all potential donors with equality and respect while maintaining the safety of the blood supply. The Red Cross is committed to achieving further progress and will continue to provide data to the FDA in support of making blood donation even more inclusive.The Red Cross welcomes everyone who wishes to be part of our humanitarian mission. You can learn more about these updates as part of our&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcUhTKkx-2FAwCsJSNKY1husBEVQMi_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmlbd15AiojmovC2TovaCUAYI0sLBkXBHLbaB8E-2B02jJ-2F-2Bm3KncHKrB4SzfsLxHn0tb9rUQ0flGHfipESgu4PcGzNAhQlcPZiCLkOnatNoHetnD2uZdOvbWz2kXjIbHUw4dmFUuQUIVp8Blvjs-2BVCMmorlOZS7BSz6ke7Xc-2Fq47vOM9C8P4Sh5TX-2Bulb9Q6ucy1Pn5J-2FfiVtj6DKd4FKmWll9eXsfz66cviJty9ZPM-2B2g-3D" target="_blank">Eligibility FAQs</a>. There is also information specific to the LGBTQ+ community on our LGBTQ+ Donors page.<h2>About the American Red Cross</h2>The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9uVu9yMLdsagfAEqWunWbOc-3D2kNE_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmlbd15AiojmovC2TovaCUAYI0sLBkXBHLbaB8E-2B02jJ-2F-2Bm3KncHKrB4SzfsLxHn0tb9rUQ0flGHfipESgu4PcG7R9iHe-2BK0ELx3QQdMT0f4S0imVb64OAjrsqPFnt0Qfa6gN1kYtUBdG7Pq-2FTH-2FhSX7yiwtoyDo559wh-2FBCU7OdGim9jzb9v33Unv-2FqpyYhBpI85bx-2BQWE2-2BYRYYNnAv17aGjaEvtSjf0pKJvbmP4-2BgE-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9hg41TxzbcaEuXbjP9P1v-2F1xHqem5iGAmJXa3rg2nfp-2BKAT4_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmlbd15AiojmovC2TovaCUAYI0sLBkXBHLbaB8E-2B02jJ-2F-2Bm3KncHKrB4SzfsLxHn0tb9rUQ0flGHfipESgu4PcG4QEA6HIqJ6SwqwGRPizumfnXq74mdZEeUNQqJprhUS1SzmpwOW-2F1syfaT6nzOfdAij0efK9Zrl1VELJJqZTqangTdQMFMIKFkrwSDZHyIp8uXC-2FryqUlFJi2B3a-2FyDGGMRzACdWM6kuAeAVs6FkkTY-3D" target="_blank">CruzRojaAmericana.org</a>, or visit us on Twitter at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUTj7ls6yjkF4ngJDQgTglJjv5Gpj80-2FfQbBqIKNhJzgxttuB_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmlbd15AiojmovC2TovaCUAYI0sLBkXBHLbaB8E-2B02jJ-2F-2Bm3KncHKrB4SzfsLxHn0tb9rUQ0flGHfipESgu4PcG-2BIMQYfhNNssEF7NLUekYbJQy0PluO6WvRbuffAmMXdw-2BYZlc134kCutaWEpLoOJmhrYrDCYpeQzcatLObKUkhbaI8YXB5rC3llZliXrhiQ-2FYLKk-2FwBzuXCfs5EiVHYHns4RZM1qQDG7j94U0hb-2FI7M-3D" target="_blank">@RedCross</a>

 2023 Battle of the Badges competition winner named, 151 units donated 

On Sept. 1, 1985, a U.S.-French expedition located the wreckage of the Titanic on the floor of the Atlantic Ocean roughly 400 miles off Newfoundland.&nbsp;

In 1715, following a reign of 72 years, King Louis XIV of France died four days before his 77th birthday.

In 1897, the first section of Boston’s new subway system was opened.&nbsp;

In 1923, the Japanese cities of Tokyo and Yokohama were devastated by an earthquake that claimed some 140,000 lives.&nbsp;

In 1939, World War II began as Nazi Germany invaded Poland.

In 1942, U.S. District Court Judge Martin I. Welsh, ruling from Sacramento, California, on a lawsuit brought by the American Civil Liberties Union on behalf of Fred Korematsu, upheld the wartime detention of Japanese-Americans as well as Japanese nationals.&nbsp;

In 1945, Americans received word of Japan’s formal surrender that ended World War II. (Because of the time difference, it was Sept. 2 in Tokyo Bay, where the ceremony took place.)

In 1969, a coup in Libya brought Moammar Gadhafi to power.&nbsp;

In 1972, American Bobby Fischer won the international chess crown in Reykjavik (RAY’-kyuh-vik), Iceland, as Boris Spassky of the Soviet Union resigned before the resumption of Game 21. An arson fire at the Blue Bird Cafe in Montreal, Canada, claimed 37 lives.&nbsp;

In 1983, 269 people were killed when a Korean Air Lines Boeing 747 was shot down by a Soviet jet fighter after the airliner entered Soviet airspace.&nbsp;

In 2005, New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin issued a “desperate SOS” as his city descended into anarchy amid the flooding left by Hurricane Katrina.&nbsp;

In 2009, Vermont’s law allowing same-sex marriage went into effect.&nbsp;

In 2015, invoking “God’s authority,” Rowan County, Kentucky, Clerk Kim Davis denied marriage licenses to gay couples again in direct defiance of the federal courts, and vowed not to resign, even under the pressure of steep fines or jail. (Davis would spend five days in jail; she was released only after her staff issued the licenses on her behalf but removed her name from the form.)&nbsp;

<h2>Today’s Highlight in History:&nbsp;</h2>On Sept. 1, 1985, a U.S.-French expedition located the wreckage of the Titanic on the floor of the Atlantic Ocean roughly 400 miles off Newfoundland.&nbsp;<h2>On this date:&nbsp;</h2>In 1715, following a reign of 72 years, King Louis XIV of France died four days before his 77th birthday.In 1897, the first section of Boston’s new subway system was opened.&nbsp;In 1923, the Japanese cities of Tokyo and Yokohama were devastated by an earthquake that claimed some 140,000 lives.&nbsp;In 1939, World War II began as Nazi Germany invaded Poland.In 1942, U.S. District Court Judge Martin I. Welsh, ruling from Sacramento, California, on a lawsuit brought by the American Civil Liberties Union on behalf of Fred Korematsu, upheld the wartime detention of Japanese-Americans as well as Japanese nationals.&nbsp;In 1945, Americans received word of Japan’s formal surrender that ended World War II. (Because of the time difference, it was Sept. 2 in Tokyo Bay, where the ceremony took place.)In 1969, a coup in Libya brought Moammar Gadhafi to power.&nbsp;In 1972, American Bobby Fischer won the international chess crown in Reykjavik (RAY’-kyuh-vik), Iceland, as Boris Spassky of the Soviet Union resigned before the resumption of Game 21. An arson fire at the Blue Bird Cafe in Montreal, Canada, claimed 37 lives.&nbsp;In 1983, 269 people were killed when a Korean Air Lines Boeing 747 was shot down by a Soviet jet fighter after the airliner entered Soviet airspace.&nbsp;In 2005, New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin issued a “desperate SOS” as his city descended into anarchy amid the flooding left by Hurricane Katrina.&nbsp;In 2009, Vermont’s law allowing same-sex marriage went into effect.&nbsp;In 2015, invoking “God’s authority,” Rowan County, Kentucky, Clerk Kim Davis denied marriage licenses to gay couples again in direct defiance of the federal courts, and vowed not to resign, even under the pressure of steep fines or jail. (Davis would spend five days in jail; she was released only after her staff issued the licenses on her behalf but removed her name from the form.)&nbsp;

Today in History, Sept. 1

The availability of certified seed wheat is usually as reliable as&nbsp;bread&nbsp;on the shelves&nbsp;at&nbsp;the local grocery store. Following&nbsp;the short harvest, however, wheat farmers like Gary Millershaski near Lakin are finding sourcing the specific varieties of certified seed wheat more difficult and costly than taking a quick trip down to pick up the bags they need. Producers need to think creatively and use their available resources to secure quality seed wheat that will help make next year’s wheat harvest.&nbsp;

“I try to plant all certified seed because we invest a lot of money into seed production, Millershaski, who also serves as the chairman of the Kansas Wheat Commission, said. “This year, if you didn’t speak for it early, you don’t have the option of any particular variety you want. Now there is seed available, but it is going to cost more this year.”

It is no shock that certified seed wheat supplies are limited this year due to the drought and short production from the Kansas harvest. Many seed dealers across the state are either sold out of certified seed wheat or have limited supplies.

“It’s extremely tight and it’s getting tighter by the day,” said Dan Dall, Central Plains regional commercial manager for Limagrain Cereal Seeds. “Guys need to be getting stuff ordered and taken care of so they can get what they want. I think we’re already down to second or third choice in a lot of places.”

Seed dealers and the companies they represent are trying to offset these shortages and meet the demand of their local customers by securing sources of certified seed wheat from other parts of Kansas or other states, but it may not be cost-effective to do so considering the high cost of freight.&nbsp;

Add more varieties to shopping list for seed wheat

Given the shortage of certified seed wheat supplies, wheat producers should be prepared to expand their list of preferred varieties to purchase, if they have not already locked in seed wheat.&nbsp;

“Instead of one or two options, be prepared to be thinking through three, four or five different options of the varieties you want,” said Bryson Haverkamp, Kansas Wheat Alliance CEO. “Your first or second choice may not be available.”

Luckily, Kansas growers have a wealth of resources available for this research, including K-State’s Kansas Wheat Variety Guide or the “Wheat Varieties for Kansas and the Great Plains” best choices book.&nbsp;

<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010qdliCZe6VzRgfCzVPSbykATn4ik-cGphS8iSNWUsXwyXu7pzJjnbw5XeeU3EkxWhG9NVPrZ18WbTaMPBxRou0Lk51A6W4kpSOBeRo7-vHYbFM4X2l5Oeja6ZMR7kkkXy9aKODU0QLeStibw4nAXjUZBjwFc5_9Qle-0kIqVJq2e0IYB2cTpRg==&amp;c=fMXjiOHoQUmXO-S9OiNGAzuz3-GZAnkwKj0jUiQm6QvHp4RQv-dm-Q==&amp;ch=OGsGaJsAPZzxAyUIDerePPvfvhoJa7QIumZqTZ0X0Jj93nnOgRDxYw==" target="_blank">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/mf991.pdf</a>&nbsp;

<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010qdliCZe6VzRgfCzVPSbykATn4ik-cGphS8iSNWUsXwyXu7pzJjnb1l5LXkNHxTABB-x7AoZ8arM1yrd09myU4mvBLSSwwxaFE67YEOnjKsUus6meDPJzhUl-ffCehkFx10G3m5JZqsujDJOaE8fFsgjvBfzg8vgHE_C_fKU_dVMB2IGSiye5g==&amp;c=fMXjiOHoQUmXO-S9OiNGAzuz3-GZAnkwKj0jUiQm6QvHp4RQv-dm-Q==&amp;ch=OGsGaJsAPZzxAyUIDerePPvfvhoJa7QIumZqTZ0X0Jj93nnOgRDxYw==" target="_blank">https://thewheatfarmer.com/wheat-varieties-book/</a>&nbsp;

When looking at this data, Andrew Blubaugh, wheat commercial manager for WestBred, cautioned producers not to just look at this year’s data, but to look back at two, three or four years of data to get a better picture of a variety’s performance and consistency.

“Don’t be upset that your pick for this year isn’t on the top of the list because this year’s data was skewed with the challenging harvest,” Blubaugh said. “Make sure to look at that multi-year history.”

In addition to these publications, seed dealers and company representatives can help growers walk through the list of available varieties to source ones that will work for their operations.&nbsp;

“There’s a lot of good advice out there,” Dall said. “Most company representatives can provide you with pretty good guidance on new varieties or different varieties to try. There are resources out there and we’re more than happy to help.”

Another option for growers is to try out a new or different variety. Instead of relying on a go-to variety, producers could branch out to something with similar agronomic characteristics.&nbsp;

“The marketplace is full of great varieties,” Dall said. “It might be a good time to try something new. We like to be set in our ways, but this does give us an opportunity to take&nbsp;a look at something else.”

Producers should also have confidence that the varieties for sale, even if they are not their go-to selections or the hot, new pick for the season, are the result of an extensive wheat breeding process and the varieties that make it to market are there because they were consistent top performers in their generations.

“There’s a lot of varieties in the marketplace today and they’re all very competitive,” said Dave Abel, key account lead for AgriPro wheat. “There are products that perform better than others in certain areas, but I have confidence that everything in my portfolio that’s out in the marketplace is out there because it performs.”

Select good quality seed for certified sources

One action producers should not take this planting season is to purchase seed wheat from unlicensed neighbors. Certified seed wheat is subject to plant variety protection (PVP) laws that govern the development and sale of certified seed wheat by public and private wheat breeders. While farmers can retain seed wheat from the certified seed they plant for use in their own operations, the sale of that “brown-bagged” wheat is illegal and could carry serious ramifications for not only the seller but also the buyer.&nbsp;In addition, bin-run wheat likely has not undergone the rigorous standards that certified seed producers are required to undergo to ensure that the seed they are selling is a quality product to put out to customers.&nbsp;

If&nbsp;producers are using their own retained seed wheat, they should send samples out for germination tests, especially following this year’s challenging growing season. Haverkamp emphasized the importance of germination testing specifically this year to ensure seed is up to acceptable standards, especially considering the amount of head scab present in the western part of Kansas.&nbsp;

If not a regular practice, producers should also strongly consider seed treatments this year as the extra fungicide and insecticide will offer additional protection against seed-transmitted fungal diseases and fall-season insects.

“It’s always a good idea to look at seed treatments, but especially in years like this when disease pressure was increased in the western part of the state, seed treatment is got insurance to help get your wheat crop off to a good start,” Blubaugh said.

Overall, while sourcing seed wheat will be a challenge this season, Kansas growers should be rest assured there are good wheat varieties available to make a crop next year.&nbsp;

“There’s a lot of good wheat varieties out there,” Haverkamp said. “Don’t be disappointed if you don’t get the variety you want. Each company has good varieties. Work really closely with your local seed provider and work with them on what they think would be a good fit for your operation.”&nbsp;

Kansas WheatThe availability of certified seed wheat is usually as reliable as&nbsp;bread&nbsp;on the shelves&nbsp;at&nbsp;the local grocery store. Following&nbsp;the short harvest, however, wheat farmers like Gary Millershaski near Lakin are finding sourcing the specific varieties of certified seed wheat more difficult and costly than taking a quick trip down to pick up the bags they need. Producers need to think creatively and use their available resources to secure quality seed wheat that will help make next year’s wheat harvest.&nbsp;“I try to plant all certified seed because we invest a lot of money into seed production, Millershaski, who also serves as the chairman of the Kansas Wheat Commission, said. “This year, if you didn’t speak for it early, you don’t have the option of any particular variety you want. Now there is seed available, but it is going to cost more this year.”It is no shock that certified seed wheat supplies are limited this year due to the drought and short production from the Kansas harvest. Many seed dealers across the state are either sold out of certified seed wheat or have limited supplies.“It’s extremely tight and it’s getting tighter by the day,” said Dan Dall, Central Plains regional commercial manager for Limagrain Cereal Seeds. “Guys need to be getting stuff ordered and taken care of so they can get what they want. I think we’re already down to second or third choice in a lot of places.”Seed dealers and the companies they represent are trying to offset these shortages and meet the demand of their local customers by securing sources of certified seed wheat from other parts of Kansas or other states, but it may not be cost-effective to do so considering the high cost of freight.&nbsp;Add more varieties to shopping list for seed wheatGiven the shortage of certified seed wheat supplies, wheat producers should be prepared to expand their list of preferred varieties to purchase, if they have not already locked in seed wheat.&nbsp;“Instead of one or two options, be prepared to be thinking through three, four or five different options of the varieties you want,” said Bryson Haverkamp, Kansas Wheat Alliance CEO. “Your first or second choice may not be available.”Luckily, Kansas growers have a wealth of resources available for this research, including K-State’s Kansas Wheat Variety Guide or the “Wheat Varieties for Kansas and the Great Plains” best choices book.&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010qdliCZe6VzRgfCzVPSbykATn4ik-cGphS8iSNWUsXwyXu7pzJjnbw5XeeU3EkxWhG9NVPrZ18WbTaMPBxRou0Lk51A6W4kpSOBeRo7-vHYbFM4X2l5Oeja6ZMR7kkkXy9aKODU0QLeStibw4nAXjUZBjwFc5_9Qle-0kIqVJq2e0IYB2cTpRg==&amp;c=fMXjiOHoQUmXO-S9OiNGAzuz3-GZAnkwKj0jUiQm6QvHp4RQv-dm-Q==&amp;ch=OGsGaJsAPZzxAyUIDerePPvfvhoJa7QIumZqTZ0X0Jj93nnOgRDxYw==" target="_blank">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/mf991.pdf</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010qdliCZe6VzRgfCzVPSbykATn4ik-cGphS8iSNWUsXwyXu7pzJjnb1l5LXkNHxTABB-x7AoZ8arM1yrd09myU4mvBLSSwwxaFE67YEOnjKsUus6meDPJzhUl-ffCehkFx10G3m5JZqsujDJOaE8fFsgjvBfzg8vgHE_C_fKU_dVMB2IGSiye5g==&amp;c=fMXjiOHoQUmXO-S9OiNGAzuz3-GZAnkwKj0jUiQm6QvHp4RQv-dm-Q==&amp;ch=OGsGaJsAPZzxAyUIDerePPvfvhoJa7QIumZqTZ0X0Jj93nnOgRDxYw==" target="_blank">https://thewheatfarmer.com/wheat-varieties-book/</a>&nbsp;When looking at this data, Andrew Blubaugh, wheat commercial manager for WestBred, cautioned producers not to just look at this year’s data, but to look back at two, three or four years of data to get a better picture of a variety’s performance and consistency.“Don’t be upset that your pick for this year isn’t on the top of the list because this year’s data was skewed with the challenging harvest,” Blubaugh said. “Make sure to look at that multi-year history.”In addition to these publications, seed dealers and company representatives can help growers walk through the list of available varieties to source ones that will work for their operations.&nbsp;“There’s a lot of good advice out there,” Dall said. “Most company representatives can provide you with pretty good guidance on new varieties or different varieties to try. There are resources out there and we’re more than happy to help.”Another option for growers is to try out a new or different variety. Instead of relying on a go-to variety, producers could branch out to something with similar agronomic characteristics.&nbsp;“The marketplace is full of great varieties,” Dall said. “It might be a good time to try something new. We like to be set in our ways, but this does give us an opportunity to take&nbsp;a look at something else.”Producers should also have confidence that the varieties for sale, even if they are not their go-to selections or the hot, new pick for the season, are the result of an extensive wheat breeding process and the varieties that make it to market are there because they were consistent top performers in their generations.“There’s a lot of varieties in the marketplace today and they’re all very competitive,” said Dave Abel, key account lead for AgriPro wheat. “There are products that perform better than others in certain areas, but I have confidence that everything in my portfolio that’s out in the marketplace is out there because it performs.”Select good quality seed for certified sourcesOne action producers should not take this planting season is to purchase seed wheat from unlicensed neighbors. Certified seed wheat is subject to plant variety protection (PVP) laws that govern the development and sale of certified seed wheat by public and private wheat breeders. While farmers can retain seed wheat from the certified seed they plant for use in their own operations, the sale of that “brown-bagged” wheat is illegal and could carry serious ramifications for not only the seller but also the buyer.&nbsp;In addition, bin-run wheat likely has not undergone the rigorous standards that certified seed producers are required to undergo to ensure that the seed they are selling is a quality product to put out to customers.&nbsp;If&nbsp;producers are using their own retained seed wheat, they should send samples out for germination tests, especially following this year’s challenging growing season. Haverkamp emphasized the importance of germination testing specifically this year to ensure seed is up to acceptable standards, especially considering the amount of head scab present in the western part of Kansas.&nbsp;If not a regular practice, producers should also strongly consider seed treatments this year as the extra fungicide and insecticide will offer additional protection against seed-transmitted fungal diseases and fall-season insects.“It’s always a good idea to look at seed treatments, but especially in years like this when disease pressure was increased in the western part of the state, seed treatment is got insurance to help get your wheat crop off to a good start,” Blubaugh said.Good wheat varieties still availableOverall, while sourcing seed wheat will be a challenge this season, Kansas growers should be rest assured there are good wheat varieties available to make a crop next year.&nbsp;“There’s a lot of good wheat varieties out there,” Haverkamp said. “Don’t be disappointed if you don’t get the variety you want. Each company has good varieties. Work really closely with your local seed provider and work with them on what they think would be a good fit for your operation.”&nbsp;

Industry offers resources to help; short supplies of certified seed wheat

Editor’s note: Fieldwork provides invaluable insights about real-world environments and processes, expanding and reinforcing what researchers learn in classrooms, labs and collections. KU faculty, staff and students across a spectrum of disciplines are taking their inquiry directly to rivers, prairies, dig sites, glaciers, islands, burial grounds and more this summer. Through the #KUFieldWorks series, we'll join them on their adventures.

Q&amp;A with Dianna Krejsa, Mammals Collection Manager

LAWRENCE — More than 100 years ago, a field crew from KU's Biodiversity Institute &amp; Natural History Museum journeyed through a unique mix of Kansas counties to document the mammals, birds, amphibians and wildlife flourishing in those environments. Now Dianna Krejsa and her team are retracing their steps to evaluate changes in multiple Kansas ecosystems.&nbsp;

What methods, approaches, experiments, etc. are you using?

In our current in-state field activities, we are conducting work supported by state grant funds to survey Kansas species. Our fieldwork is structured by resurveying sites that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Birds-Bones-Beetles.../dp/0700627731">Charles Bunker</a>, a curator of the KU Natural History Museum in the early 1900s, visited in 1911 and 1912.

These unique locales and habitats included the Gypsum Hills of southern Kansas (Clark, Comanche and Barber counties), the desert and shortgrass prairie of west-central Kansas (Trego and Stafford counties), the high plains of far western Kansas (Cheyenne, Wallace and Hamilton counties), and mixed oak-hickory woodlands of eastern Kansas (Doniphan, Woodson, Greenwood and Cherokee counties.

Our resurvey — more than 100 years later — is producing important new county records and helps inform wildlife managers of the conservation status of certain species, provides data on population cycles and fluctuations, and serves as a new baseline for future examinations of change through time. 

Our methods for surveying and collecting are not dissimilar to Bunker’s, so our group is able to replicate the work and effort he and his field crew put in to getting the records they did, and we can compare them to species diversity and abundances found today. 

These surveys include mammals, birds and herpetofauna (amphibians and reptiles), and each resurvey at a given county site generates a short report of species found there that can be used by wildlife managers as well as private landowners in the area.

Why does your study matter to your field or for society?

We are providing new data on Kansas native species that will be used to look backward — to examine changes in the last 100 years — as well as to serve as a baseline for changes in the next 50 to 100 years. What can new hybridization dynamics among birds tell us about encroachment of eastern species on western ones? Are some species getting sequestered to “islands” of ideal habitat, where they are no longer able to disperse and add to their species-wide gene pool? Or are previously rare or imperiled species stabilizing or growing? We’re helping to add to those datasets and work with state agencies and landowners who are invested in our natural resources.&nbsp;

What do you enjoy most about being in the field?

I enjoy being in the field because, of course, it involves getting back into nature — and that is why many of us entered a field like biology, natural resources management or conservation: a love for the outdoors and wonders of the natural world. I also love the near-constant business of fieldwork — that there is always something to work on next. And with the camaraderie of good colleagues and new students getting to experience fieldwork for the first time, there is nearly limitless energy among us.

What are some memorable (funny, scary, surprising, etc.) moments from the field?

Each day walking a trapline or driving to survey is going to be full of surprises — you don’t know what you’ll see on the landscape. One evening survey, we stopped the vehicle to get a better look at a jackrabbit, angling the headlights for a better view. In doing so, we happened to catch sight of a striped skunk walking into the brush. Then, when we got out binoculars to have a closer look, the rabbit and skunk were gone but new eye shine on the hillside proved to be a badger. Who can ask for a better evening drive?

When is fieldwork frustrating, challenging or overwhelming?

The only thing that can stop a good field experience in its tracks is lack of food or coffee. Make sure the crew is well-fed and caffeinated as needed, and the rest will fall into place. Regardless of frustrating moments or challenges, nearly everyone looks back on their time in the field fondly (perhaps after they’ve had a shower and nap after returning home).

How does fieldwork complement the work you do elsewhere?

Fieldwork is how we build collections at the Biodiversity Institute, and those collections are at the root of our research efforts and student involvement. To remain relevant, a natural history collection must be dynamic and adaptive in its methodologies (being perceptive to current and proactive toward future research needs) and be ever-growing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693063390938.jpeg" alt="Ben Wiens, Dianna Krejsa and Bailey Dixon prepare specimens in the field in Trego County. KU photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Ben Wiens, Dianna Krejsa and Bailey Dixon prepare specimens in the field in Trego County. KU photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>KU Office of ResearchEditor’s note: Fieldwork provides invaluable insights about real-world environments and processes, expanding and reinforcing what researchers learn in classrooms, labs and collections. KU faculty, staff and students across a spectrum of disciplines are taking their inquiry directly to rivers, prairies, dig sites, glaciers, islands, burial grounds and more this summer. Through the #KUFieldWorks series, we'll join them on their adventures.<h2>Q&amp;A with Dianna Krejsa, Mammals Collection Manager</h2>LAWRENCE — More than 100 years ago, a field crew from KU's Biodiversity Institute &amp; Natural History Museum journeyed through a unique mix of Kansas counties to document the mammals, birds, amphibians and wildlife flourishing in those environments. Now Dianna Krejsa and her team are retracing their steps to evaluate changes in multiple Kansas ecosystems.&nbsp;What methods, approaches, experiments, etc. are you using?In our current in-state field activities, we are conducting work supported by state grant funds to survey Kansas species. Our fieldwork is structured by resurveying sites that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Birds-Bones-Beetles.../dp/0700627731">Charles Bunker</a>, a curator of the KU Natural History Museum in the early 1900s, visited in 1911 and 1912. These unique locales and habitats included the Gypsum Hills of southern Kansas (Clark, Comanche and Barber counties), the desert and shortgrass prairie of west-central Kansas (Trego and Stafford counties), the high plains of far western Kansas (Cheyenne, Wallace and Hamilton counties), and mixed oak-hickory woodlands of eastern Kansas (Doniphan, Woodson, Greenwood and Cherokee counties.Our resurvey — more than 100 years later — is producing important new county records and helps inform wildlife managers of the conservation status of certain species, provides data on population cycles and fluctuations, and serves as a new baseline for future examinations of change through time. Our methods for surveying and collecting are not dissimilar to Bunker’s, so our group is able to replicate the work and effort he and his field crew put in to getting the records they did, and we can compare them to species diversity and abundances found today. These surveys include mammals, birds and herpetofauna (amphibians and reptiles), and each resurvey at a given county site generates a short report of species found there that can be used by wildlife managers as well as private landowners in the area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693063602892.jpeg" alt="Ben Wiens holds an evening bat documented in the resurvey after it was caught in a mist net in Trego County. KU photo" />
 <figcaption>Ben Wiens holds an evening bat documented in the resurvey after it was caught in a mist net in Trego County. KU photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Why does your study matter to your field or for society?We are providing new data on Kansas native species that will be used to look backward — to examine changes in the last 100 years — as well as to serve as a baseline for changes in the next 50 to 100 years. What can new hybridization dynamics among birds tell us about encroachment of eastern species on western ones? Are some species getting sequestered to “islands” of ideal habitat, where they are no longer able to disperse and add to their species-wide gene pool? Or are previously rare or imperiled species stabilizing or growing? We’re helping to add to those datasets and work with state agencies and landowners who are invested in our natural resources.&nbsp;What do you enjoy most about being in the field?I enjoy being in the field because, of course, it involves getting back into nature — and that is why many of us entered a field like biology, natural resources management or conservation: a love for the outdoors and wonders of the natural world. I also love the near-constant business of fieldwork — that there is always something to work on next. And with the camaraderie of good colleagues and new students getting to experience fieldwork for the first time, there is nearly limitless energy among us.What are some memorable (funny, scary, surprising, etc.) moments from the field?Each day walking a trapline or driving to survey is going to be full of surprises — you don’t know what you’ll see on the landscape. One evening survey, we stopped the vehicle to get a better look at a jackrabbit, angling the headlights for a better view. In doing so, we happened to catch sight of a striped skunk walking into the brush. Then, when we got out binoculars to have a closer look, the rabbit and skunk were gone but new eye shine on the hillside proved to be a badger. Who can ask for a better evening drive?<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693063687785.jpeg" alt="Photo of a tree-dotted field in Cheyenne County. KU photo" />
 <figcaption>Photo of a tree-dotted field in Cheyenne County. KU photo</figcaption>
 </figure>When is fieldwork frustrating, challenging or overwhelming?The only thing that can stop a good field experience in its tracks is lack of food or coffee. Make sure the crew is well-fed and caffeinated as needed, and the rest will fall into place. Regardless of frustrating moments or challenges, nearly everyone looks back on their time in the field fondly (perhaps after they’ve had a shower and nap after returning home).How does fieldwork complement the work you do elsewhere?Fieldwork is how we build collections at the Biodiversity Institute, and those collections are at the root of our research efforts and student involvement. To remain relevant, a natural history collection must be dynamic and adaptive in its methodologies (being perceptive to current and proactive toward future research needs) and be ever-growing.

#KUFieldWorks: Tracking changes in western Kansas ecological history

Hear Leslie Bishop, Executive Director for Salina Downtown Inc. talk about all the exciting things happening downtown- click <a href="https://fb.watch/mNNUTeDKh-/?mibextid=v7YzmG">here!</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693570441015.jpeg" alt="Don Wagner and Friends will perform at City Lights Stage this evening" />
 <figcaption>Don Wagner and Friends will perform at City Lights Stage this evening</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693570508147.jpeg" alt="First Friday Art downtown.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>First Friday Art downtown.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Hear Leslie Bishop, Executive Director for Salina Downtown Inc. talk about all the exciting things happening downtown- click <a href="https://fb.watch/mNNUTeDKh-/?mibextid=v7YzmG">here!</a>

Sept. First Friday, Don Wagner and Friends, downtown artwork

Sir Ben Kingsley has played gangsters, artists, a Marvel movie villain, and Mahatma Gandhi. But strangely enough, it’s his portrayal of Milton Robinson, a lonely widower frittering away his remaining years in a sleepy town in Pennsylvania, which just might be his&nbsp;tour de force.

Friday showtimes 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Saturday showtimes 2:00 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Sunday showtimes 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.

 Estranged from his son, Milton’s at least on polite, though rather distant, terms with his grown daughter (Zöe Winters). But as he approaches the early stages of Alzheimer’s, Milton’s got little to energize him except for the weekly town hall meetings where he asserts himself with petty grievances. In other words, this is a character familiar to us, a type that’s irritating at times but also rather sad. And Kingsley, with middle-America accent and withdrawn, nervous demeanor, is sublime and totally relatable as a fellow who just wants to be noticed (but not too much). In director Marc Turtletaub’s low-key comedy, Milton gets his wish when an alien crashes in his backyard. Sort of like a version of&nbsp;E.T.&nbsp;for seniors, Milton and two acquaintances, Sandy (Harriett Sansom Harris) and Joyce (Jane Curtin), decide to nurse the injured alien (stuntwoman Jade Quon) back to health while keeping its presence a secret. 

Though “Jules” (as two members of the trio dub the creature) never speaks, its silent, fascinated bemusement with our world is engaging and sympathetic. The real joy, though, is to see a sci-fi/comedy driven by older actors, bringing unique emotional insights into issues like aging, mortality, family, and the challenges of making “human” connections. Kingsley, Curtin, and Martin have terrific chemistry and help ground the potential wackiness of the film’s premise, giving&nbsp;Jules&nbsp;genuine sweetness without any saccharin.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693513595178.jpeg" alt="Poster for 'Jules'" />
 <figcaption>Poster for 'Jules'</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Arts Center CinemaSir Ben Kingsley has played gangsters, artists, a Marvel movie villain, and Mahatma Gandhi. But strangely enough, it’s his portrayal of Milton Robinson, a lonely widower frittering away his remaining years in a sleepy town in Pennsylvania, which just might be his&nbsp;tour de force.<h2>"Jules" Showtimes</h2>Friday showtimes 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.Saturday showtimes 2:00 p.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday showtimes 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.<h2>About Jules</h2> Estranged from his son, Milton’s at least on polite, though rather distant, terms with his grown daughter (Zöe Winters). But as he approaches the early stages of Alzheimer’s, Milton’s got little to energize him except for the weekly town hall meetings where he asserts himself with petty grievances. In other words, this is a character familiar to us, a type that’s irritating at times but also rather sad. And Kingsley, with middle-America accent and withdrawn, nervous demeanor, is sublime and totally relatable as a fellow who just wants to be noticed (but not too much). In director Marc Turtletaub’s low-key comedy, Milton gets his wish when an alien crashes in his backyard. Sort of like a version of&nbsp;E.T.&nbsp;for seniors, Milton and two acquaintances, Sandy (Harriett Sansom Harris) and Joyce (Jane Curtin), decide to nurse the injured alien (stuntwoman Jade Quon) back to health while keeping its presence a secret. Though “Jules” (as two members of the trio dub the creature) never speaks, its silent, fascinated bemusement with our world is engaging and sympathetic. The real joy, though, is to see a sci-fi/comedy driven by older actors, bringing unique emotional insights into issues like aging, mortality, family, and the challenges of making “human” connections. Kingsley, Curtin, and Martin have terrific chemistry and help ground the potential wackiness of the film’s premise, giving&nbsp;Jules&nbsp;genuine sweetness without any saccharin.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(Rated PG-13 for profanity.)Runtime: 87 Minutes

Salina Arts Cinema showing 'Jules' this weekend

The next Saline County commodities distribution will be Sept. 20.

Volunteers from Sunrise Presbyterian Church will be distributing the food from 9-10 a.m. Wednesday at Kenwood Hall, 900 Greeley Avenue.

Food items for this distribution include the following, according to information from the church: black beans, tomato soup, fresh peaches, rice, garbanzo beans, cheddar cheese, almonds, spaghetti, milk, pork patties, dates, pulled pork, mixed vegetables, salmon, strawberries and chicken drumsticks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

One box per household will be distributed.

Persons picking up food will need a Saline County photo ID and proof of income for a month. If you are picking up for someone else, you will need copies of that person's ID and proof of income.

The monthly income for one person cannot exceed $1,580, with $557 added for each additional person in the household.

The commodities distribution group has a new phone number. If you have questions, please call 785-416-9352.

By SALINA POSTThe next Saline County commodities distribution will be Sept. 20.Volunteers from Sunrise Presbyterian Church will be distributing the food from 9-10 a.m. Wednesday at Kenwood Hall, 900 Greeley Avenue.Food items for this distribution include the following, according to information from the church: black beans, tomato soup, fresh peaches, rice, garbanzo beans, cheddar cheese, almonds, spaghetti, milk, pork patties, dates, pulled pork, mixed vegetables, salmon, strawberries and chicken drumsticks.&nbsp;&nbsp;One box per household will be distributed.Persons picking up food will need a Saline County photo ID and proof of income for a month. If you are picking up for someone else, you will need copies of that person's ID and proof of income.The monthly income for one person cannot exceed $1,580, with $557 added for each additional person in the household.The commodities distribution group has a new phone number. If you have questions, please call 785-416-9352.

Next commodities distribution for Saline County, Sept. 20

MARION (AP) —One of the reporters who works at the small Kansas newspaper that was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marion-kansas-newspaper-raid-aca057365ea3925328a69acd615c9893">raided by authorities</a>&nbsp;earlier this month filed a federal lawsuit against the police chief Wednesday.

Deb Gruver believes Marion Police Chief Gideon Cody violated her constitutional rights when he abruptly snatched her personal cellphone out of her hands during a search where officers also seized computers from the Marion County Record's office, according to the lawsuit. That Aug. 11 search and two others conducted at the homes of the newspaper's publisher and a City Council member have thrust the town into the center of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marion-county-record-kansas-newspaper-raid-f1e49c4e542ddb3cf19c9ca02a0a21fb">debate over the press protections</a>&nbsp;in the First Amendment.

Cody didn't immediately respond to an email or text message from The Associated Press on Wednesday seeking comment. He has said little publicly since the raids other than posting a defense of them on the police department's Facebook page. In&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/newspaper-raid-kansas-affidavit-07d9c856894892bff13cb014248ec866">court documents</a>&nbsp;he filed to get the search warrants, he argued that he had probable cause to believe the newspaper and City Council member Ruth Herbel, whose home was also raided, had violated state laws against identity theft or computer crimes.

But the newspaper's publisher, Eric Meyer, has said he believes the identity theft allegations provided a convenient excuse for the search, and the police chief was really upset about Gruver's investigation into his background with the Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department before he was hired in Marion earlier this year. Meyer has said he plans to file his own lawsuit.

The Record is known for its aggressive coverage of local politics and its community of 1,900 people about 150 miles (161 kilometers) southwest of Kansas City, Missouri.

Gruver — a veteran reporter with more than three decades of experience — said in a statement that by filing her lawsuit “I’m standing up for journalists across the country." She has previously worked at other newspapers in Kansas, Wyoming and Indiana and has won awards for her reporting.

“It is our constitutional right to do this job without fear of harassment or retribution, and our constitutional rights are always worth fighting for,” said Gruver, who had the words “Freedom of the press” tattooed on her right forearm the same day her lawsuit was filed.

The city administrator directed questions about the lawsuit to its attorney, Brian Bina, and outside council, Jennifer Hill. Neither attorney immediately returned phone messages from The Associated Press seeking comment.

The police department’s investigation of the newspaper began after a local restaurant owner accused reporters of improperly using personal information to access details about the status of her suspended driver’s license and her record that included a DUI arrest. A spokesman for the agency that maintains those records&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-raid-marion-county-record-ce9a8b98f05e2c4faef14e7ad6948316">has said</a>&nbsp;the reporter's search on a public website was likely legal.

The lawsuit says that the warrant expressly said that the search was supposed to focus only on equipment that was used to access those records, which was done by another reporter at the paper. But after Cody handed Gruver a copy of the warrant and she told him that she needed to call the publisher, he quickly grabbed her personal phone and took it.

“In seizing Ms. Gruver’s personal cellular phone despite the seizure exceeding the scope of the unreasonable and unlawful search warrant, Chief Cody acted in unreasonable and unnecessarily violent fashion, causing injury to plaintiff’s Gruver’s rights and her person,” the lawsuit said.

One of the officers even read Gruver, another reporter and an office administrator their Miranda rights even though they were never arrested before forcing them outside in the heat to watch the three-hour search.

After the search of the newspaper office, officers went on to search the home Meyer shared with his 98-year-old mother.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-mother-raid-video-4427af3241da82767deb76028836cffd">Video of that raid</a>&nbsp;shows how distraught his mother became as officers searched through their belongings. Meyer said he believes that stress contributed to the death of his mother, Joan Meyer, a day later.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-raid-marion-county-record-bead3f49d323c784d40154067141dc7c">Legal experts believe</a>&nbsp;the raid on the newspaper violated a federal privacy law or a state law shielding journalists from having to identify sources or turn over unpublished material to law enforcement.

Authorities returned the computers and cellphones they took during the raids after the prosecutor decided there was insufficient evidence to justify their seizure. A judge ordered investigators Tuesday to also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-raid-first-amendment-f8f375dbf48b93fc15c12893b8b49f37">destroy electronic copies</a>&nbsp;they made of the newspaper's files.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is looking into the newspaper's actions, but it hasn't provided any updates on its investigation.

It's not clear what action local officials might take. The City Council refused to discuss the raids at its meeting last week, and the mayor has told the Record that he doesn’t plan to take any action in response to them until after the KBI completes its investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692219843330.png" alt="Reporter Deb Gruver believes Marion Police Chief Gideon Cody violated her constitutional rights-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Reporter Deb Gruver believes Marion Police Chief Gideon Cody violated her constitutional rights-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>MARION (AP) —One of the reporters who works at the small Kansas newspaper that was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marion-kansas-newspaper-raid-aca057365ea3925328a69acd615c9893">raided by authorities</a>&nbsp;earlier this month filed a federal lawsuit against the police chief Wednesday.Deb Gruver believes Marion Police Chief Gideon Cody violated her constitutional rights when he abruptly snatched her personal cellphone out of her hands during a search where officers also seized computers from the Marion County Record's office, according to the lawsuit. That Aug. 11 search and two others conducted at the homes of the newspaper's publisher and a City Council member have thrust the town into the center of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marion-county-record-kansas-newspaper-raid-f1e49c4e542ddb3cf19c9ca02a0a21fb">debate over the press protections</a>&nbsp;in the First Amendment.Cody didn't immediately respond to an email or text message from The Associated Press on Wednesday seeking comment. He has said little publicly since the raids other than posting a defense of them on the police department's Facebook page. In&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/newspaper-raid-kansas-affidavit-07d9c856894892bff13cb014248ec866">court documents</a>&nbsp;he filed to get the search warrants, he argued that he had probable cause to believe the newspaper and City Council member Ruth Herbel, whose home was also raided, had violated state laws against identity theft or computer crimes.But the newspaper's publisher, Eric Meyer, has said he believes the identity theft allegations provided a convenient excuse for the search, and the police chief was really upset about Gruver's investigation into his background with the Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department before he was hired in Marion earlier this year. Meyer has said he plans to file his own lawsuit.The Record is known for its aggressive coverage of local politics and its community of 1,900 people about 150 miles (161 kilometers) southwest of Kansas City, Missouri.Gruver — a veteran reporter with more than three decades of experience — said in a statement that by filing her lawsuit “I’m standing up for journalists across the country." She has previously worked at other newspapers in Kansas, Wyoming and Indiana and has won awards for her reporting.“It is our constitutional right to do this job without fear of harassment or retribution, and our constitutional rights are always worth fighting for,” said Gruver, who had the words “Freedom of the press” tattooed on her right forearm the same day her lawsuit was filed.The city administrator directed questions about the lawsuit to its attorney, Brian Bina, and outside council, Jennifer Hill. Neither attorney immediately returned phone messages from The Associated Press seeking comment.The police department’s investigation of the newspaper began after a local restaurant owner accused reporters of improperly using personal information to access details about the status of her suspended driver’s license and her record that included a DUI arrest. A spokesman for the agency that maintains those records&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-raid-marion-county-record-ce9a8b98f05e2c4faef14e7ad6948316">has said</a>&nbsp;the reporter's search on a public website was likely legal.The lawsuit says that the warrant expressly said that the search was supposed to focus only on equipment that was used to access those records, which was done by another reporter at the paper. But after Cody handed Gruver a copy of the warrant and she told him that she needed to call the publisher, he quickly grabbed her personal phone and took it.“In seizing Ms. Gruver’s personal cellular phone despite the seizure exceeding the scope of the unreasonable and unlawful search warrant, Chief Cody acted in unreasonable and unnecessarily violent fashion, causing injury to plaintiff’s Gruver’s rights and her person,” the lawsuit said.One of the officers even read Gruver, another reporter and an office administrator their Miranda rights even though they were never arrested before forcing them outside in the heat to watch the three-hour search.After the search of the newspaper office, officers went on to search the home Meyer shared with his 98-year-old mother.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-mother-raid-video-4427af3241da82767deb76028836cffd">Video of that raid</a>&nbsp;shows how distraught his mother became as officers searched through their belongings. Meyer said he believes that stress contributed to the death of his mother, Joan Meyer, a day later.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-raid-marion-county-record-bead3f49d323c784d40154067141dc7c">Legal experts believe</a>&nbsp;the raid on the newspaper violated a federal privacy law or a state law shielding journalists from having to identify sources or turn over unpublished material to law enforcement.Authorities returned the computers and cellphones they took during the raids after the prosecutor decided there was insufficient evidence to justify their seizure. A judge ordered investigators Tuesday to also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-raid-first-amendment-f8f375dbf48b93fc15c12893b8b49f37">destroy electronic copies</a>&nbsp;they made of the newspaper's files.The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is looking into the newspaper's actions, but it hasn't provided any updates on its investigation.It's not clear what action local officials might take. The City Council refused to discuss the raids at its meeting last week, and the mayor has told the Record that he doesn’t plan to take any action in response to them until after the KBI completes its investigation.

Kan. reporter files federal lawsuit against police chief who raided office

Updated 8/31/2023 10:37 a.m.

By NATE KING Salina Post

A non-permitted garbage fire was the cause of a grass fire that completely destroyed a camper and scorched two acres of grass in Saline County Wednesday afternoon.

Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander told Salina Post that deputies received a 911 call for reports of a fire at approximately 1:06 p.m. yesterday in the 1800 block of East 40 Highway.&nbsp;

Melander said when deputies arrived at the scene they discovered a 53-year-old male, of Salina, who had been burning trash in a burn pit in the area.

"It [the fire] got out of control and started the grass on fire," Melander said. "That quickly spread to some surrounding grass and there was an old camper sitting close by."&nbsp;

The camper, owned by a 49-year-old male from Salina,&nbsp; caught fire and was completely destroyed. The camper was valued at $200.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Rural Fire District Five was on the scene to put out the flames.&nbsp;

Melander said a burn violation ticket was issued to the 53-year-old male who was burning trash. No injuries were reported.&nbsp;

---------------------------------------------------------

SALINE COUNTY —Saline County Rural Fire District 5 responded to a grass fire on Wednesday afternoon.

There was heavy smoke in the 1800 Block of Highway 40 near Salina.

Two acres had reportedly burned. There are no reports of injuries.

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

Updated 8/31/2023 10:37 a.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693421333788.png" alt="Photos by Nate King" />
 <figcaption>Photos by Nate King</figcaption>
 </figure>By NATE KING Salina PostA non-permitted garbage fire was the cause of a grass fire that completely destroyed a camper and scorched two acres of grass in Saline County Wednesday afternoon.Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander told Salina Post that deputies received a 911 call for reports of a fire at approximately 1:06 p.m. yesterday in the 1800 block of East 40 Highway.&nbsp; Melander said when deputies arrived at the scene they discovered a 53-year-old male, of Salina, who had been burning trash in a burn pit in the area. "It [the fire] got out of control and started the grass on fire," Melander said. "That quickly spread to some surrounding grass and there was an old camper sitting close by."&nbsp;The camper, owned by a 49-year-old male from Salina,&nbsp; caught fire and was completely destroyed. The camper was valued at $200.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rural Fire District Five was on the scene to put out the flames.&nbsp;Melander said a burn violation ticket was issued to the 53-year-old male who was burning trash. No injuries were reported.&nbsp;---------------------------------------------------------SALINE COUNTY —Saline County Rural Fire District 5 responded to a grass fire on Wednesday afternoon.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693421193335.png" alt="Photos Nate King Salina Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos Nate King Salina Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693421524975.png" alt="photos by Nate King" />
 <figcaption>photos by Nate King</figcaption>
 </figure>There was heavy smoke in the 1800 Block of Highway 40 near Salina.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693421333788.png" alt="Photos Nate King Salina Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos Nate King Salina Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Two acres had reportedly burned. There are no reports of injuries. Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

UPDATE: Saline County grass fire caused by uncontrolled garbage fire

TOPEKA — Three Kansas school districts and two organizations were recently honored for outstanding practices in Child Nutrition and Wellness programs that help support the Kansans Can vision.

The Kansans Can 2022-2023 Best Practice Awards were presented by Cheryl Johnson, Child Nutrition and Wellness (CNW) director for the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE), during the Aug. 8 Kansas State Board of Education meeting in Topeka. This is the sixth year for the awards.

The Kansans Can vision, which was established by the State Board in 2015, is Kansas leads the world in the success of each student.

First Choice Support Services, a Salina based CACFP sponsor of child care homes, received the Kansans Can Step Up to Lead award. The organization faced staffing challenges during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

“First Choice lost all personnel except the executive director and one enrollment specialist in February 2021,” Johnson said. “Lacy Schmidt stepped up to lead in a position where she was a new employee with no other experienced employees to mentor or guide her. She went above and beyond to learn and build competence in CACFP administration. She has maintained perfect attendance since her employment.”

One of Schmidt’s major accomplishments was the outreach she conducted to licensed child care home providers.

“At a time when there is a shortage of child care workers in Kansas, leadership to encourage day care home providers to participate in the CACFP, which is an indicator of quality care, is to be commended,” Johnson said.

Logan USD 326 received a Farm to Plate sub-grant from KSDE as part of a USDA Farm to School grant. The district’s objective was to educate students as to where their food comes from and give them a sense of ownership as they were allowed to grow their own food that was then used for school meals.

Logan USD 326 used grant funds to purchase grow lights for garden towers, which allowed students to increase the amount of produce grown. They also purchased a compost bin and a commercial dehydrator.

“Logan is a leader in serving local, quality foods in school meals and in teaching students where their food comes from,” Johnson said. “They are a mentor and inspiration to many other districts throughout the state showing that Kansans Can serve local foods in child nutrition programs.”

DeSoto USD 232 celebrated Farm to Fork Friday each Friday from August through October during the 2022-2023 school year. Every Friday, a different local produce item was sourced from local farms and served at lunch through the Kansas City Food Hub – a farmer cooperative wholesaler and retailer that partners with 30 local farmers.

Produce served included watermelon, grape tomatoes, sweet peppers, cucumbers, Fuji apples, romaine and sweet green peppers. Farmer information cards were posted during the lunch meal service so students could see where the produce came from.

Quality Care Services Inc. is a Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) sponsor of child care homes. The organization was awarded a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Edible Garden Turn-Key Grant effective July 2022 through June 2023. To apply for the grant, Quality Care Services needed community partnerships.

Quality Care Services partnered with Kansas Corn STEM and created a preschool curriculum that was offered free to all child care home providers through Kansas. Each of Quality Care Services’ child care home providers were given a local food bundle kit, which included a book on composting, container garden handouts and a sub-grant application for either a raised garden bed or hydroponic garden.

The organization successfully awarded 16 raised garden kits and 19 hydroponic garden kits. Providers grew more than 843 pounds of local food during the winter months.

“Quality Care is the first child care sponsor in Kansas to directly apply for a Farm to School Grant from USDA and is to be commended for its passion about serving quality local foods in day care homes, educating pre-K children about where their food comes from and creating a STEM curriculum,” Johnson said.

Lansing USD 469 received the Kansans Can Impact Wellness award. The district has an active wellness committee that meets regularly. As a team, the committee has set goals to impact wellness within Lansing USD 469. Goals include increasing visibility and interest within the community around creating a healthier school environment and incorporating social-emotional wellness into the wellness policies.

“KSDE CNW supports schools in their wellness policy implementation by offering wellness coach visits to school districts,” Johnson said. “The wellness coach that assisted Lansing … was impressed with the work of this diverse community and how their strong policies and practices are truly impacting wellness in the Lansing schools and communities.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693497641038.jpeg" alt="Representatives from First Choice Support Services posed for a photograph Tuesday, Aug. 8, with Kansas State Board of Education members, Kansas State Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson, and Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) Child Nutrition and Wellness team members. First Choice Support Services received the Kansans Can Step Up to Lead award in the Kansans Can 2022-2023 Best Practice Awards. The awards were presented to recipients during the Tuesday, Aug. 8, State Board of Education meeting in Topeka." />
 <figcaption>Representatives from First Choice Support Services posed for a photograph Tuesday, Aug. 8, with Kansas State Board of Education members, Kansas State Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson, and Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) Child Nutrition and Wellness team members. First Choice Support Services received the Kansans Can Step Up to Lead award in the Kansans Can 2022-2023 Best Practice Awards. The awards were presented to recipients during the Tuesday, Aug. 8, State Board of Education meeting in Topeka.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA — Three Kansas school districts and two organizations were recently honored for outstanding practices in Child Nutrition and Wellness programs that help support the Kansans Can vision.The Kansans Can 2022-2023 Best Practice Awards were presented by Cheryl Johnson, Child Nutrition and Wellness (CNW) director for the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE), during the Aug. 8 Kansas State Board of Education meeting in Topeka. This is the sixth year for the awards.The Kansans Can vision, which was established by the State Board in 2015, is Kansas leads the world in the success of each student.First Choice Support Services, a Salina based CACFP sponsor of child care homes, received the Kansans Can Step Up to Lead award. The organization faced staffing challenges during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.“First Choice lost all personnel except the executive director and one enrollment specialist in February 2021,” Johnson said. “Lacy Schmidt stepped up to lead in a position where she was a new employee with no other experienced employees to mentor or guide her. She went above and beyond to learn and build competence in CACFP administration. She has maintained perfect attendance since her employment.”One of Schmidt’s major accomplishments was the outreach she conducted to licensed child care home providers.“At a time when there is a shortage of child care workers in Kansas, leadership to encourage day care home providers to participate in the CACFP, which is an indicator of quality care, is to be commended,” Johnson said.Logan USD 326 received a Farm to Plate sub-grant from KSDE as part of a USDA Farm to School grant. The district’s objective was to educate students as to where their food comes from and give them a sense of ownership as they were allowed to grow their own food that was then used for school meals.Logan USD 326 used grant funds to purchase grow lights for garden towers, which allowed students to increase the amount of produce grown. They also purchased a compost bin and a commercial dehydrator.“Logan is a leader in serving local, quality foods in school meals and in teaching students where their food comes from,” Johnson said. “They are a mentor and inspiration to many other districts throughout the state showing that Kansans Can serve local foods in child nutrition programs.”DeSoto USD 232 celebrated Farm to Fork Friday each Friday from August through October during the 2022-2023 school year. Every Friday, a different local produce item was sourced from local farms and served at lunch through the Kansas City Food Hub – a farmer cooperative wholesaler and retailer that partners with 30 local farmers.Produce served included watermelon, grape tomatoes, sweet peppers, cucumbers, Fuji apples, romaine and sweet green peppers. Farmer information cards were posted during the lunch meal service so students could see where the produce came from.Quality Care Services Inc. is a Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) sponsor of child care homes. The organization was awarded a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Edible Garden Turn-Key Grant effective July 2022 through June 2023. To apply for the grant, Quality Care Services needed community partnerships.Quality Care Services partnered with Kansas Corn STEM and created a preschool curriculum that was offered free to all child care home providers through Kansas. Each of Quality Care Services’ child care home providers were given a local food bundle kit, which included a book on composting, container garden handouts and a sub-grant application for either a raised garden bed or hydroponic garden.The organization successfully awarded 16 raised garden kits and 19 hydroponic garden kits. Providers grew more than 843 pounds of local food during the winter months.“Quality Care is the first child care sponsor in Kansas to directly apply for a Farm to School Grant from USDA and is to be commended for its passion about serving quality local foods in day care homes, educating pre-K children about where their food comes from and creating a STEM curriculum,” Johnson said.Lansing USD 469 received the Kansans Can Impact Wellness award. The district has an active wellness committee that meets regularly. As a team, the committee has set goals to impact wellness within Lansing USD 469. Goals include increasing visibility and interest within the community around creating a healthier school environment and incorporating social-emotional wellness into the wellness policies.“KSDE CNW supports schools in their wellness policy implementation by offering wellness coach visits to school districts,” Johnson said. “The wellness coach that assisted Lansing … was impressed with the work of this diverse community and how their strong policies and practices are truly impacting wellness in the Lansing schools and communities.”

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