On this repeat episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with NASA&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/astronauts/biographies/victor-j-glover/biography" target="_blank">Astronaut Victor Glover, Jr.&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;who will pilot NASA's mission to fly by the moon in 2026.

On this repeat episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with NASA&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/astronauts/biographies/victor-j-glover/biography" target="_blank">Astronaut Victor Glover, Jr.&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;who will pilot NASA's mission to fly by the moon in 2026.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BsB43T6P6Ns?si=YhteHw1CYZmbkFdE&amp;start=2" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680538101123.png" alt="Official crew portrait for Artemis II, from left: NASA Astronauts Christina Koch, Victor Glover, Reid Wiseman, Canadian Space Agency Astronaut Jeremy Hansen." />
 <figcaption>Official crew portrait for Artemis II, from left: NASA Astronauts Christina Koch, Victor Glover, Reid Wiseman, Canadian Space Agency Astronaut Jeremy Hansen.</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎤 Forward Ever: NASA Astronaut Victor Glover, Jr.

SALINE COUNTY —&nbsp;A house fire was to blame for the severe injuries a couple suffered in Saline County.

According to the Saline County Sheriff's Office, on Thursday deputies and Rural Fire Districts 5, 7 and 2 arrived to a working house fire in the 1500 block of N. Marymount.

Once authorities extinguished the fire, deputies rescued a couple from the home. However, it was reported that a 75-year old female received serious burns and an 83-year old male suffered smoke inhalation.

The 75-year old female resident was transported to Salina Regional and then was transferred to Ascension Via Christi in Wichita. The 83-year old male resident was transported to Salina Regional Health Center.

The cause of the fire is suspected to be due to electrical issues.&nbsp; The residence is a total loss and the amount of loss is still being evaluated, according to Saline Co. Operations Captain Jim Hughes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746798263843.jpeg" alt="Saline County Sheriff's Office Photo Courtesy" />
 <figcaption>Saline County Sheriff's Office Photo Courtesy</figcaption>
 </figure>By: SALINA POSTSALINE COUNTY —&nbsp;A house fire was to blame for the severe injuries a couple suffered in Saline County.According to the Saline County Sheriff's Office, on Thursday deputies and Rural Fire Districts 5, 7 and 2 arrived to a working house fire in the 1500 block of N. Marymount.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746798465659.png" alt="Saline County Sheriff's Office Photo Courtesy" />
 <figcaption>Saline County Sheriff's Office Photo Courtesy</figcaption>
 </figure>Once authorities extinguished the fire, deputies rescued a couple from the home. However, it was reported that a 75-year old female received serious burns and an 83-year old male suffered smoke inhalation.The 75-year old female resident was transported to Salina Regional and then was transferred to Ascension Via Christi in Wichita. The 83-year old male resident was transported to Salina Regional Health Center.The cause of the fire is suspected to be due to electrical issues.&nbsp; The residence is a total loss and the amount of loss is still being evaluated, according to Saline Co. Operations Captain Jim Hughes.

Couple Hospitalized After House Fire

Salina Unified School District (USD) 305 are providing free meals for all children ages 1 - 18 this summer with no signup, eligibility or paperwork required.&nbsp;

According to USD 305, starting June 2nd children and adults are invited to participate in the Summer Food Program. This program includes:

Breakfast and lunch with activities, provided by the Salina Educators. The Salina Area United Way will also provide book giveaways during the program.

Adults are also welcome to eat breakfast for $3.25 and lunch for $5.25.&nbsp;

The Summer Food Program will run from June 2nd - June 19th.&nbsp;

Central High School on 650 E. Crawford St. from&nbsp;7:45 am - 8:15 am

Heusner Elementary on 1300 Norton St. from&nbsp;7:45 am - 8:15 am

Schilling Elementary on 3121 Canterbury Dr. from&nbsp;7:45 am - 8:15 am

Central High School from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Heusner Elementary&nbsp;from&nbsp;12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Schilling Elementary from 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Salina Fieldhouse on 140 N. 5th St. from&nbsp;12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Heartland Early Education on 700 Jupiter Ave. from&nbsp;12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.usd305.com/">www.usd305.com</a>&nbsp;and click on the Summer Food Program banner to view menus, activities and other information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584738604512.jpeg" alt="USD 305 Photo Courtesy" />
 <figcaption>USD 305 Photo Courtesy</figcaption>
 </figure>By: NICOLAS FIERROSalina Unified School District (USD) 305 are providing free meals for all children ages 1 - 18 this summer with no signup, eligibility or paperwork required.&nbsp;According to USD 305, starting June 2nd children and adults are invited to participate in the Summer Food Program. This program includes:Breakfast and lunch with activities, provided by the Salina Educators. The Salina Area United Way will also provide book giveaways during the program.Adults are also welcome to eat breakfast for $3.25 and lunch for $5.25.&nbsp;The Summer Food Program will run from June 2nd - June 19th.&nbsp;<h2>The list of locations for breakfast:</h2>Central High School on 650 E. Crawford St. from&nbsp;7:45 am - 8:15 amHeusner Elementary on 1300 Norton St. from&nbsp;7:45 am - 8:15 amSchilling Elementary on 3121 Canterbury Dr. from&nbsp;7:45 am - 8:15 am<h2>For lunch:</h2>Central High School from 11:00 am - 1:00 pmHeusner Elementary&nbsp;from&nbsp;12:00 pm - 1:00 pmSchilling Elementary from 12:00 pm - 1:00 pmSalina Fieldhouse on 140 N. 5th St. from&nbsp;12:00 pm - 1:00 pmHeartland Early Education on 700 Jupiter Ave. from&nbsp;12:00 pm - 1:00 pmVisit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.usd305.com/">www.usd305.com</a>&nbsp;and click on the Summer Food Program banner to view menus, activities and other information.

USD 305 Starts Summer Food Program This Summer

The Central Kansas Mental Health Center (CKMHC) is wanting to raise awareness over the importance of mental health.

In the wake of Mental Health Month (May 1 - May 31st), CKMHC is encouraging the community to not only raise awareness, but to turn it into action. 

According to the organization, they are asking community members to sign up for a "Mental Health First Aid"&nbsp;class or to request someone from your workplace, school or organization. This course is meant to&nbsp;teach participants about mental health and substance use challenges.&nbsp;

Along with the call to action, CKMHC will hold an event today at their Crossroads building on 800 Elmhurst Blvd., from 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm. The event will consist of free hot dog meals and helpful mental health resources. &nbsp;

"Kansas Impact Coalition Summer Kick-Off"&nbsp;on Saturday, May 10th from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm at Thomas Park in North Salina (1525 N 9th St).&nbsp;

"CKF Out of School Bash" on Friday, May 23rd from 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm at the District Eat and Play located inside Salina Central Mall (2259 S 9th St).&nbsp;

"Roots of Resilience: A Rural Mental Health Gathering" on Saturday, June 7th from 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm at the&nbsp;Minneapolis Public Library Meeting Room (519 Delia Ave. Minneapolis, KS).

RSVP is encouraged but not required.&nbsp;

To learn more about CKMHC, sign up for classes or to make a donation go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ckmhc.org/">https://www.ckmhc.org/</a>&nbsp;or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:gboyum@ckmhc.org">gboyum@ckmhc.org</a>.

CKMHC’s 24/7 crisis line is&nbsp;785-823-6322, or dial&nbsp;988 for the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://e5gr6dbbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tfkjNnMBGxzWfA_dJRR4MZtdKfdMPolKk1KuOgBcbg-RsM2ALesa8ef_cclYnBRhfVp5DbexJUS0tJObFJAGKCLV3_TyhimMp3FOti_iYwaRtfcObCpyeGwCXlrTSH9W30s37jlJIl6YdOW17KTNRQ==&amp;c=opfsoP-cmc1HPfz7uF9pqpUlJhhhtJNdUe-1bkcQd8FEdnyxssx5HQ==&amp;ch=dhe-Tq-2t4_Fp2HlQ7NGWnaLm1uhlMUGhCPBK_2utLoVklt9j2BbaA==">Suicide and Crisis Lifeline</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746725505452.png" alt="Central Kansas Mental Health Center logo courtesy of CKMHC" />
 <figcaption>Central Kansas Mental Health Center logo courtesy of CKMHC</figcaption>
 </figure>By: NICOLAS FIERROSalina PostThe Central Kansas Mental Health Center (CKMHC) is wanting to raise awareness over the importance of mental health.In the wake of Mental Health Month (May 1 - May 31st), CKMHC is encouraging the community to not only raise awareness, but to turn it into action. According to the organization, they are asking community members to sign up for a "Mental Health First Aid"&nbsp;class or to request someone from your workplace, school or organization. This course is meant to&nbsp;teach participants about mental health and substance use challenges.&nbsp;Along with the call to action, CKMHC will hold an event today at their Crossroads building on 800 Elmhurst Blvd., from 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm. The event will consist of free hot dog meals and helpful mental health resources. &nbsp;Other community events include:"Kansas Impact Coalition Summer Kick-Off"&nbsp;on Saturday, May 10th from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm at Thomas Park in North Salina (1525 N 9th St).&nbsp;"CKF Out of School Bash" on Friday, May 23rd from 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm at the District Eat and Play located inside Salina Central Mall (2259 S 9th St).&nbsp;"Roots of Resilience: A Rural Mental Health Gathering" on Saturday, June 7th from 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm at the&nbsp;Minneapolis Public Library Meeting Room (519 Delia Ave. Minneapolis, KS).RSVP is encouraged but not required.&nbsp;To learn more about CKMHC, sign up for classes or to make a donation go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ckmhc.org/">https://www.ckmhc.org/</a>&nbsp;or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:gboyum@ckmhc.org">gboyum@ckmhc.org</a>.CKMHC’s 24/7 crisis line is&nbsp;785-823-6322, or dial&nbsp;988 for the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://e5gr6dbbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tfkjNnMBGxzWfA_dJRR4MZtdKfdMPolKk1KuOgBcbg-RsM2ALesa8ef_cclYnBRhfVp5DbexJUS0tJObFJAGKCLV3_TyhimMp3FOti_iYwaRtfcObCpyeGwCXlrTSH9W30s37jlJIl6YdOW17KTNRQ==&amp;c=opfsoP-cmc1HPfz7uF9pqpUlJhhhtJNdUe-1bkcQd8FEdnyxssx5HQ==&amp;ch=dhe-Tq-2t4_Fp2HlQ7NGWnaLm1uhlMUGhCPBK_2utLoVklt9j2BbaA==">Suicide and Crisis Lifeline</a>.

Salina Organization Raises Mental Health Awareness With Events

The KWU Philharmonic Choir will celebrate Barbara Marshall Nickell, a longtime esteemed faculty member with a concert filled with selections from Disney films, religious spirituals, arias, solos and duets.

On Friday, the KWU Choir will end a successful year with a concert dedicated to Marshall Nickell, who will be retiring from her duties this year. 

According to the institution, Marshall Nickell joined the staff back in the Fall Of 1987. She has been the Associate Professor of Communication Studies and Theater Arts, where she was involved with theater at KWU and in the community as an actor, director and customer.&nbsp;

Marshall Nickell excelled in the University's debate program, earning more than 65 national championships. From 2008-2024, she led the Fine Arts Division as a key faculty members and Department Chair.

Last year, she was awarded the Kansas Speech Communication Association Collegiate Educator (KSCACE). Marshall Nickell was then inducted into the KWU Music Hall of Fame as one of the first people to do so that same year.

Marshall Nickell expounded on the importance building relationships with students and the joy she took out of it.

"Students come first and building relationships is what it's all about. The most exciting for me is to see the students grow into maturity over the years," said Marshall Nickell.

She stated that she still intends to support KWU students in the future by attending their games, events, concerts and extracurricular activities.&nbsp;

Marshall Nickell commented that she will spend her time now by visiting her twin grandchildren and family.

The concert will feature pieces of religious standards/spirituals, selections from Disney films such as "Wicked" and arias from operas. Students will also perform solos and duets, along with performances by the KWU Choir.

Friday at 7:00 pm, the concert will begin inside Sams Chapel on the campus of KWU. A special reception will follow.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746717795957.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tanner Colvin" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tanner Colvin</figcaption>
 </figure>By: NICOLAS FIERROSalina PostThe KWU Philharmonic Choir will celebrate Barbara Marshall Nickell, a longtime esteemed faculty member with a concert filled with selections from Disney films, religious spirituals, arias, solos and duets.On Friday, the KWU Choir will end a successful year with a concert dedicated to Marshall Nickell, who will be retiring from her duties this year. According to the institution, Marshall Nickell joined the staff back in the Fall Of 1987. She has been the Associate Professor of Communication Studies and Theater Arts, where she was involved with theater at KWU and in the community as an actor, director and customer.&nbsp;Marshall Nickell excelled in the University's debate program, earning more than 65 national championships. From 2008-2024, she led the Fine Arts Division as a key faculty members and Department Chair.Last year, she was awarded the Kansas Speech Communication Association Collegiate Educator (KSCACE). Marshall Nickell was then inducted into the KWU Music Hall of Fame as one of the first people to do so that same year.Marshall Nickell expounded on the importance building relationships with students and the joy she took out of it.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746717666593.jpeg" alt="Nickell Marshall, Barbara (photo courtesy of Kansas Wesleyan University)" />
 <figcaption>Nickell Marshall, Barbara (photo courtesy of Kansas Wesleyan University)</figcaption>
 </figure>"Students come first and building relationships is what it's all about. The most exciting for me is to see the students grow into maturity over the years," said Marshall Nickell.She stated that she still intends to support KWU students in the future by attending their games, events, concerts and extracurricular activities.&nbsp;Marshall Nickell commented that she will spend her time now by visiting her twin grandchildren and family.The concert will feature pieces of religious standards/spirituals, selections from Disney films such as "Wicked" and arias from operas. Students will also perform solos and duets, along with performances by the KWU Choir.Friday at 7:00 pm, the concert will begin inside Sams Chapel on the campus of KWU. A special reception will follow.Admission is free.

KWU Choir Honors Longtime Esteemed Faculty Member 

Public Relations Coordinator, Salina Regional Health Center

Salina Regional Health Center recently expanded its robotic surgical capabilities with the addition of the da Vinci SP from Intuitive Surgical. The “SP” stands for single-port and allows for complex surgeries to be performed through a single, small incision – typically 2.5 cm to 4 cm in length.

Like the multi-port da Vinci systems that have been utilized at Salina Regional since 2009, the single-port system offers the surgeon a highly-magnified view of the surgical field while seated at a computer console a few feet away from the patient table where hand and foot controls are utilized to maneuver the robotic instruments. 

The single-port utilizes three multi-jointed, wristed instruments and a 3D HD camera that is contained within the single cannula and connected to the robotic arm of the machine. The technology is utilized for urologic surgeries of the prostate, bladder and kidney.

“For many urologic surgeries the single-port technology allows us to take advantage of the precision and minimally-invasive benefits of robotic surgery through a single, small incision,” said Salina Urologist Ryan Payne, M.D. “Through our first cases with the technology, patients are clearly having less pain, fewer side effects and quicker recoveries. About half of them go home without the use of narcotic pain medicine, and don’t require any pain medicine other than Tylenol or ibuprofen.”

The single-port technology is advantageous for most urologic cases because of the direct approaches utilized in the pelvis or back of the abdomen. 

The more direct approach with the single-port technology may also make surgical time quicker than compared to the use of multi-port robotic surgery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746719121515.jpeg" alt="Salina Urologists JuliAnne Rathbun, M.D., and Ryan Payne, M.D., utilize the new da Vinci single-port surgical system for a variety of urologic surgeries.&nbsp;Courtesy Photo of Salina Regional Health Center." />
 <figcaption>Salina Urologists JuliAnne Rathbun, M.D., and Ryan Payne, M.D., utilize the new da Vinci single-port surgical system for a variety of urologic surgeries.&nbsp;Courtesy Photo of Salina Regional Health Center.</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;JOHN BERGGRENPublic Relations Coordinator, Salina Regional Health CenterSalina Regional Health Center recently expanded its robotic surgical capabilities with the addition of the da Vinci SP from Intuitive Surgical. The “SP” stands for single-port and allows for complex surgeries to be performed through a single, small incision – typically 2.5 cm to 4 cm in length.Like the multi-port da Vinci systems that have been utilized at Salina Regional since 2009, the single-port system offers the surgeon a highly-magnified view of the surgical field while seated at a computer console a few feet away from the patient table where hand and foot controls are utilized to maneuver the robotic instruments. The single-port utilizes three multi-jointed, wristed instruments and a 3D HD camera that is contained within the single cannula and connected to the robotic arm of the machine. The technology is utilized for urologic surgeries of the prostate, bladder and kidney.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746719391260.jpeg" alt="Courtesy Photo of Salina Regional Health Center" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Photo of Salina Regional Health Center</figcaption>
 </figure>“For many urologic surgeries the single-port technology allows us to take advantage of the precision and minimally-invasive benefits of robotic surgery through a single, small incision,” said Salina Urologist Ryan Payne, M.D. “Through our first cases with the technology, patients are clearly having less pain, fewer side effects and quicker recoveries. About half of them go home without the use of narcotic pain medicine, and don’t require any pain medicine other than Tylenol or ibuprofen.”The single-port technology is advantageous for most urologic cases because of the direct approaches utilized in the pelvis or back of the abdomen. The more direct approach with the single-port technology may also make surgical time quicker than compared to the use of multi-port robotic surgery.

Salina Regional Health Center Expands Surgery Capabilities

Every day, public servants carry out critical work that allows our society to function. We rely on public servants for our daily safety through emergency services and preventing crime and terrorism; to ensure we build and maintain the physical infrastructure allowing us to move from place to place, communicate across long distances, power our homes or drink clean water; to educate our children; to administer critical social programs like Social Security and Medicare; and much more. 

In Kansas, Federal employees carry out programs that help conserve our soil and water resources, provide stability to our agricultural economy, support our armed forces, process our Social Security Checks and tax refunds, deliver our mail, and more.

Too often their work goes unnoticed until something goes wrong. Yet public servants work every day to provide a stable foundation for all of us to enjoy our lives and our freedom. 

Since 1985, the first week of May has been designated as Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW) to recognize those who serve our communities and our country.

John Ourada, Salina, Retired NRCS-USDA Engineer and

President, Kansas Federation of National Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE)

John Ourada (Salina), is a retired NRCS-USDA Engineer and President, Kansas Federation of National Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE)

The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Media. The editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.

You can send us your opinions/letters to the editor, along with your name, city and or county location to newstips@salinapost.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By: JOHN OURADASalina, KSEvery day, public servants carry out critical work that allows our society to function. We rely on public servants for our daily safety through emergency services and preventing crime and terrorism; to ensure we build and maintain the physical infrastructure allowing us to move from place to place, communicate across long distances, power our homes or drink clean water; to educate our children; to administer critical social programs like Social Security and Medicare; and much more. In Kansas, Federal employees carry out programs that help conserve our soil and water resources, provide stability to our agricultural economy, support our armed forces, process our Social Security Checks and tax refunds, deliver our mail, and more.Too often their work goes unnoticed until something goes wrong. Yet public servants work every day to provide a stable foundation for all of us to enjoy our lives and our freedom. Since 1985, the first week of May has been designated as Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW) to recognize those who serve our communities and our country.John Ourada, Salina, Retired NRCS-USDA Engineer andPresident, Kansas Federation of National Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE)John Ourada (Salina), is a retired NRCS-USDA Engineer and President, Kansas Federation of National Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE)The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Media. The editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.You can send us your opinions/letters to the editor, along with your name, city and or county location to newstips@salinapost.com

OPINION: Don't Forget To Recognize Public Servants This Week

Salina Police are searching for two male suspects who assaulted a teenager.

According to Police Captain James Feldman, on Wednesday an 18-year old male reported that sometime between 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm he was attacked by two men in the parking lot of Pump Mart on 1118 N. 9th.

Reportedly, the victim was hit multiple times in the face. He was not able to provide the motives of the attackers, but stated both suspects were either hispanic or black.&nbsp;

The victim was sent to Salina Regional Health Center for facial injuries. 

Salina Police are investigating the crime.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574453792382.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By: SALINA POST&nbsp;Salina Police are searching for two male suspects who assaulted a teenager.According to Police Captain James Feldman, on Wednesday an 18-year old male reported that sometime between 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm he was attacked by two men in the parking lot of Pump Mart on 1118 N. 9th.Reportedly, the victim was hit multiple times in the face. He was not able to provide the motives of the attackers, but stated both suspects were either hispanic or black.&nbsp;The victim was sent to Salina Regional Health Center for facial injuries. Salina Police are investigating the crime.

Two Male Suspects Assault Teenager, Police Investigating

The United Soybean Board, which oversees the funds of the national checkoff, is seeking farmer-leaders to serve on the national board. Kansas has two director positions to fill following December term completions for Kurt Maurath, Oakley, and Lance Rezac, Onaga.

The mission of the soybean checkoff is to create value for U.S. soybean farmers by investing in research, education and promotion of U.S.-grown soy. Farmer-leaders are able to elevate their perspectives and direct those investments through service on the board. The checkoff’s current return-on-investment of $12.30 back to farmers for each dollar invested demonstrates the checkoff’s efficacy in driving profitability for every acre of soybeans.

Dennis Gruenbacher, Andale, sought a USB director position in 2018 because he saw an opportunity to find more end uses for soybeans and ultimately improve prices for growers. He remarks that the checkoff has done just that through developing tires from soybean oil and other value-added projects.

“I enjoyed serving on USB to work with Clean Fuels Alliance America and see trade development through the U.S. Soybean Export Council,” Gruenbacher says. “The best experience from USB was traveling to Germany with USSEC to meet with 120 soybean buyers. We were able to discuss high oleic soybeans with Egypt and much more.”

Though he stepped back from USB in 2023, Gruenbacher continues to serve as a Kansas Soybean Commissioner.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, which handles the appointment process, eligible nominees include “soybean producers within the U.S. who own or share ownership and risk of loss of soybean production.” Board members are required to attend the February, July and December meetings annually as well as various conference calls and other events. Leaders volunteer their time to serve but are reimbursed for travel and other expenses related to attending meetings and events on behalf of USB.

The position is open to all individuals without regard to their protected statuses including race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital or family status, political beliefs, parental status, or other protected information. KSC works to ensure that its nominees to USB reflect the diversity in the size of enterprise, experience, methods of production and distribution, marketing strategies, and other distinguishing factors that represent Kansas soybean farmers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692745881332.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS SOYBEAN COMMISSIONThe United Soybean Board, which oversees the funds of the national checkoff, is seeking farmer-leaders to serve on the national board. Kansas has two director positions to fill following December term completions for Kurt Maurath, Oakley, and Lance Rezac, Onaga.The mission of the soybean checkoff is to create value for U.S. soybean farmers by investing in research, education and promotion of U.S.-grown soy. Farmer-leaders are able to elevate their perspectives and direct those investments through service on the board. The checkoff’s current return-on-investment of $12.30 back to farmers for each dollar invested demonstrates the checkoff’s efficacy in driving profitability for every acre of soybeans.Dennis Gruenbacher, Andale, sought a USB director position in 2018 because he saw an opportunity to find more end uses for soybeans and ultimately improve prices for growers. He remarks that the checkoff has done just that through developing tires from soybean oil and other value-added projects.“I enjoyed serving on USB to work with Clean Fuels Alliance America and see trade development through the U.S. Soybean Export Council,” Gruenbacher says. “The best experience from USB was traveling to Germany with USSEC to meet with 120 soybean buyers. We were able to discuss high oleic soybeans with Egypt and much more.”Though he stepped back from USB in 2023, Gruenbacher continues to serve as a Kansas Soybean Commissioner.According to the United States Department of Agriculture, which handles the appointment process, eligible nominees include “soybean producers within the U.S. who own or share ownership and risk of loss of soybean production.” Board members are required to attend the February, July and December meetings annually as well as various conference calls and other events. Leaders volunteer their time to serve but are reimbursed for travel and other expenses related to attending meetings and events on behalf of USB.The position is open to all individuals without regard to their protected statuses including race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital or family status, political beliefs, parental status, or other protected information. KSC works to ensure that its nominees to USB reflect the diversity in the size of enterprise, experience, methods of production and distribution, marketing strategies, and other distinguishing factors that represent Kansas soybean farmers.

Soybean growers invited to apply for national checkoff board seat

ABILENE - A full day of learning history, enjoying great food and entertainment in dedication for Mother's day is set to occur this Saturday.

The Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad (ASSVR) is celebrating Mother's Day weekend with a trio of events that will start at 9:30 am on the Rock Island Depot on 200 SE. 5th St.&nbsp;

According to Steve Smethers of ASSVR, attendees will get the chance to experience the "roots of Kansas and the history of America" right in Abilene.

"We have alot to offer and this weekend will be a great opportunity for people to enjoy themselves," said Smethers.

Starting at 9:30 am will be the&nbsp;Flint Hills Express excursion train ride that will take off from Abilene’s 1887 Rock Island Depot. During the ride, participants can experience a two-hour mansion tour of the historic Seelye Mansion at 10:00 am. People will get to understand what the life of the Seelye's (A.B. and Jennie Seelye) was like.&nbsp;

This will then be followed by a tea party on the train, occuring at 1:00 pm. Food will be served which will consist of chicken salad finger sandwiches with a hit of curry, scones with Devonshire style cream, fruit salad, cheese puffs, devil's food cake with Seelye chocolate icing and old fashioned lemon bars. The tea party will also have some recreated dessert recipes that were made from Jennie Seelye. Black English breakfast tea or Seelye old fashioned fruit punch will also be served.

Tickets for 1:00 pm train ride are only on sale until 1:00 pm on Thursday, May 8th.&nbsp;

Furthermore, a matinee performance "Steel Magnolias" will be held at Abilene's Great Plains Theater, starting at 2:00 pm on 215 N. Campbell St. Ended by a Mother's Day dinner at 6:00 pm in the ASSVR Limited Dinner Train. The dinner and theater package is $120 per person and can be purchased only through the Great Plains Theater site: <a href="https://www.greatplainstheatre.com/steel-magnolias">https://www.greatplainstheater.com/steel-magnolias.</a>

To purchase tickets go to,&nbsp;<a href="https://asvrr.org/rides/">https://asvrr.org/rides/&nbsp;</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746639079818.png" alt="Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad Courtesy Photo" />
 <figcaption>Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad Courtesy Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By: NICOLAS FIERROSalina PostABILENE - A full day of learning history, enjoying great food and entertainment in dedication for Mother's day is set to occur this Saturday.The Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad (ASSVR) is celebrating Mother's Day weekend with a trio of events that will start at 9:30 am on the Rock Island Depot on 200 SE. 5th St.&nbsp;According to Steve Smethers of ASSVR, attendees will get the chance to experience the "roots of Kansas and the history of America" right in Abilene."We have alot to offer and this weekend will be a great opportunity for people to enjoy themselves," said Smethers.Starting at 9:30 am will be the&nbsp;Flint Hills Express excursion train ride that will take off from Abilene’s 1887 Rock Island Depot. During the ride, participants can experience a two-hour mansion tour of the historic Seelye Mansion at 10:00 am. People will get to understand what the life of the Seelye's (A.B. and Jennie Seelye) was like.&nbsp;This will then be followed by a tea party on the train, occuring at 1:00 pm. Food will be served which will consist of chicken salad finger sandwiches with a hit of curry, scones with Devonshire style cream, fruit salad, cheese puffs, devil's food cake with Seelye chocolate icing and old fashioned lemon bars. The tea party will also have some recreated dessert recipes that were made from Jennie Seelye. Black English breakfast tea or Seelye old fashioned fruit punch will also be served.Tickets for 1:00 pm train ride are only on sale until 1:00 pm on Thursday, May 8th.&nbsp;Furthermore, a matinee performance "Steel Magnolias" will be held at Abilene's Great Plains Theater, starting at 2:00 pm on 215 N. Campbell St. Ended by a Mother's Day dinner at 6:00 pm in the ASSVR Limited Dinner Train. The dinner and theater package is $120 per person and can be purchased only through the Great Plains Theater site: <a href="https://www.greatplainstheatre.com/steel-magnolias">https://www.greatplainstheater.com/steel-magnolias.</a>To purchase tickets go to,&nbsp;<a href="https://asvrr.org/rides/">https://asvrr.org/rides/&nbsp;</a>

Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad Hosting Multiple Events This Weekend

SALINE COUNTY — A jury found a Salina man guilty for a shooting death in 2021.

A Saline County jury found 38-year-old, Juan Doroteo-Morales guilty of first-degree, premeditated murder, aggravated assault and criminal possession of a firearm by a felon in the death of 25-year-old Camilo Renaldo Ramirez of Salina, according to the Kansas Attorney General's office.

In August 2021,&nbsp;Ramirez and his dog were shot near the intersection of Front Street and E. Iron Avenue. Police, who were dispatched to the area for the report of gunshots, found Ramirez in the street.&nbsp; He later died at a hospital.

According to information from police, surveillance videos near the shooting scene showed a vehicle circling the area. It then stopped and two people got out and began shooting.

A front window at Fresh Market, 511 E. Iron Avenue, and a nearby CityGo bus stop sign sustained damage from bullets during the shooting.

As part of the investigation, detectives learned that Ramirez was lured to the location by Morales and co-defendants&nbsp;Jaime Leos, Jacob Leos and Kiera Stewart.

Investigators found firearms used in the shooting in a drainage system a few blocks from a residence associated with the crime.

“Everyone involved in Camilo Ramirez’s murder has now been held accountable for their actions. I am pleased that justice was served,” said Jessica Domme, Deputy Attorney General.

Stewart entered guilty pleas to intentional murder in the second Degree, attempted aggravated robbery, and conspiracy to commit aggravated robbery on Oct. 18, 2022.&nbsp; Stewart testified during Morales’ trial.

Jaime Leos entered guilty pleas to voluntary manslaughter and conspiracy to commit murder in the second degree on July 29, 2024.

Jacob Leos entered guilty pleas to intentional murder in the second degree, conspiracy to commit murder in the first degree, and aggravated assault on May 2, 2024.

Stewart and Jaime Leos are scheduled to be sentenced on May 16. Jacob Leos is scheduled to be sentenced May 20.&nbsp;Morales will be sentenced in Saline County District Court on August 15th.

The Salina Police Department with the assistance of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746639820085.png" alt="Morales photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Morales photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY — A jury found a Salina man guilty for a shooting death in 2021.A Saline County jury found 38-year-old, Juan Doroteo-Morales guilty of first-degree, premeditated murder, aggravated assault and criminal possession of a firearm by a felon in the death of 25-year-old Camilo Renaldo Ramirez of Salina, according to the Kansas Attorney General's office.In August 2021,&nbsp;Ramirez and his dog were shot near the intersection of Front Street and E. Iron Avenue. Police, who were dispatched to the area for the report of gunshots, found Ramirez in the street.&nbsp; He later died at a hospital.According to information from police, surveillance videos near the shooting scene showed a vehicle circling the area. It then stopped and two people got out and began shooting.A front window at Fresh Market, 511 E. Iron Avenue, and a nearby CityGo bus stop sign sustained damage from bullets during the shooting.As part of the investigation, detectives learned that Ramirez was lured to the location by Morales and co-defendants&nbsp;Jaime Leos, Jacob Leos and Kiera Stewart.Investigators found firearms used in the shooting in a drainage system a few blocks from a residence associated with the crime.“Everyone involved in Camilo Ramirez’s murder has now been held accountable for their actions. I am pleased that justice was served,” said Jessica Domme, Deputy Attorney General.Stewart entered guilty pleas to intentional murder in the second Degree, attempted aggravated robbery, and conspiracy to commit aggravated robbery on Oct. 18, 2022.&nbsp; Stewart testified during Morales’ trial.Jaime Leos entered guilty pleas to voluntary manslaughter and conspiracy to commit murder in the second degree on July 29, 2024.Jacob Leos entered guilty pleas to intentional murder in the second degree, conspiracy to commit murder in the first degree, and aggravated assault on May 2, 2024.Stewart and Jaime Leos are scheduled to be sentenced on May 16. Jacob Leos is scheduled to be sentenced May 20.&nbsp;Morales will be sentenced in Saline County District Court on August 15th.The Salina Police Department with the assistance of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.

Jury: Man guilty of Salina man's 2021 shooting death

CLOUD COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Wednesday in Cloud County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Chevy Silverado driven by&nbsp; Bobby Dwayne&nbsp;Heckman, 38, Tipton, was westbound on U.S. 24 Highway three miles east of U.S. 81. The pickup crossed the center line, entered the south ditch, struck a metal culvert at a field access drive, went airborne, struck a metal cattle panel section of fence while traveling over the fence and rolled&nbsp;

EMS transported&nbsp;Heckman&nbsp;North Central Kansas Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

CLOUD COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Wednesday in Cloud County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Chevy Silverado driven by&nbsp; Bobby Dwayne&nbsp;Heckman, 38, Tipton, was westbound on U.S. 24 Highway three miles east of U.S. 81. The pickup crossed the center line, entered the south ditch, struck a metal culvert at a field access drive, went airborne, struck a metal cattle panel section of fence while traveling over the fence and rolled&nbsp;EMS transported&nbsp;Heckman&nbsp;North Central Kansas Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kan. man hospitalized after violent rollover accident

Made dinner plans yet? Maybe reconsider, because K-State Salina is inviting the community to support their Student Veterans Association at Freddy's tonight.

A Fundraiser dedicated to K-State Salina's Student Veterans Association will be happening from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Freddy's Frozen Custard &amp; Steakburgers on 2420 S. 9th.

According to the organization, all proceeds will help students attend the Student Veterans of America Regional Summit that will be occurring in Kansas City this summer.

When you go support say, "I'm here for the fundraiser" before you order your meal. Another way to support is by going online or using the Freddy's mobile app and use the promo code "GIVEBACK" when you place your order.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746632348507.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of K-State Salina Student Veterans Association (Facebook page)" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of K-State Salina Student Veterans Association (Facebook page)</figcaption>
 </figure>By: NICOLAS FIERRO&nbsp;Made dinner plans yet? Maybe reconsider, because K-State Salina is inviting the community to support their Student Veterans Association at Freddy's tonight.A Fundraiser dedicated to K-State Salina's Student Veterans Association will be happening from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Freddy's Frozen Custard &amp; Steakburgers on 2420 S. 9th.According to the organization, all proceeds will help students attend the Student Veterans of America Regional Summit that will be occurring in Kansas City this summer.When you go support say, "I'm here for the fundraiser" before you order your meal. Another way to support is by going online or using the Freddy's mobile app and use the promo code "GIVEBACK" when you place your order.

Fundraiser Supports K-State Student Veterans Association

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:&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving While Suspended; Unsafe turning or stopping - Fail to Signal; FTY to Emergency vehicle; Circumvention of Ignition Interlock device; Poss. of marijuana

NAME:&nbsp;Edwards Wilson, Melynda Lanell

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Agg. Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746626063757.jpeg" alt="Adams, Angel Messiah&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Adams, Angel Messiah&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Adams, Angel MessiahREQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746626079485.jpeg" alt="Lanier, Joshua Cade" />
 <figcaption>Lanier, Joshua Cade</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Lanier, Joshua CadeREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving While Suspended; Unsafe turning or stopping - Fail to Signal; FTY to Emergency vehicle; Circumvention of Ignition Interlock device; Poss. of marijuana<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746626030436.jpeg" alt="Edwards Wilson, Melynda Lanell" />
 <figcaption>Edwards Wilson, Melynda Lanell</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Edwards Wilson, Melynda LanellREQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746626102022.jpeg" alt="Hassler, Jeramy Ronald" />
 <figcaption>Hassler, Jeramy Ronald</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Hassler,Jeramy RonaldREQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Agg. Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke

Saline County Jail Bookings, May 7

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

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

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

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

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

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

Argument Over Puppy Turns Violent 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Candidate Doug Billings wants to implement DOGE framework in Topeka

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Salina police investigate reported accidental shooting

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saline County Jail Bookings, May 6

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

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

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

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

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