Deputy Chief Sean Morton has been appointed as Salina's interim police chief.&nbsp;He will begin his interim role Friday.

Earlier this month, Salina Police Chief Brad Nelson announced that he was retiring.

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/ba9eaa79-2aed-4a21-ac6d-c132b68d945e">Salina Police Chief Brad Nelson to retire</a>

"Chief Nelson intended to retire on September 2nd, but has elected to move that date to July 1 due to family medical issues," today's announcement from the City of Salina noted.

“I wish Chief Nelson well in his retirement and I appreciate Deputy Chief Morton’s willingness to serve as the interim police chief. Serving as Deputy Chief since 2014, Chief Morton will provide continuity and will continue and build upon the momentum in initiatives started under Chief Nelson’s leadership,” Salina City Manager Mike Schrage said.

Morton started his career with the Salina Police Department in 1991, according to information provided by the City of Salina. His previous roles include police officer, detective, lieutenant, captain, and deputy chief. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Kansas Wesleyan University, and is a 2016 graduate of the FBI National Academy.&nbsp;

The City of Salina has begun the process of soliciting applications for the vacant police chief position.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656620182909.jpeg" alt="Sean Morton. Photo courtesy Salina Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Sean Morton. Photo courtesy Salina Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTDeputy Chief Sean Morton has been appointed as Salina's interim police chief.&nbsp;He will begin his interim role Friday.Earlier this month, Salina Police Chief Brad Nelson announced that he was retiring.READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/ba9eaa79-2aed-4a21-ac6d-c132b68d945e">Salina Police Chief Brad Nelson to retire</a>"Chief Nelson intended to retire on September 2nd, but has elected to move that date to July 1 due to family medical issues," today's announcement from the City of Salina noted.“I wish Chief Nelson well in his retirement and I appreciate Deputy Chief Morton’s willingness to serve as the interim police chief. Serving as Deputy Chief since 2014, Chief Morton will provide continuity and will continue and build upon the momentum in initiatives started under Chief Nelson’s leadership,” Salina City Manager Mike Schrage said.Morton started his career with the Salina Police Department in 1991, according to information provided by the City of Salina. His previous roles include police officer, detective, lieutenant, captain, and deputy chief. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Kansas Wesleyan University, and is a 2016 graduate of the FBI National Academy.&nbsp;The City of Salina has begun the process of soliciting applications for the vacant police chief position.

Sean Morton named interim Salina police chief

SALINE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 6:30a.m. Thursday in Saline County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox driven by Josiah J. Hein, 21, Lincoln, Neb., was southbound on Interstate 135 three miles south of Salina.

The vehicle struck a pedestrian identified as 25-year-old David Pierre Jackson of St. Louis, Mo., who had run out onto the interstate.

Jackson was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Ryan's Mortuary. Hein and a passenger in the Equinox, Kyle W. Gordon, 52, Salina, were properly restrained and not injured, according to the KHP.

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal pedestrian accident that occurred just after 6:30a.m. Thursday on southbound Interstate 135 near the Kansas 104 Mentor Road/Smolan Road exit

KHP was notified of a two vehicle non-injury crash with one driver walking south from scene, according to a social media report from Trooper Ben Gardner. Shortly afterwards an additional crash involving a pedestrian was reported resulting in a death.

The single fatality is not a local resident, according to Gardner. Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656596897608.png" alt="First responders on the scene of the investigation Thursday morning-photo courtesy KHP" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene of the investigation Thursday morning-photo courtesy KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 6:30a.m. Thursday in Saline County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox driven by Josiah J. Hein, 21, Lincoln, Neb., was southbound on Interstate 135 three miles south of Salina.The vehicle struck a pedestrian identified as 25-year-old David Pierre Jackson of St. Louis, Mo., who had run out onto the interstate.Jackson was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Ryan's Mortuary. Hein and a passenger in the Equinox, Kyle W. Gordon, 52, Salina, were properly restrained and not injured, according to the KHP.----------SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal pedestrian accident that occurred just after 6:30a.m. Thursday on southbound Interstate 135 near the Kansas 104 Mentor Road/Smolan Road exitKHP was notified of a two vehicle non-injury crash with one driver walking south from scene, according to a social media report from Trooper Ben Gardner. Shortly afterwards an additional crash involving a pedestrian was reported resulting in a death.The single fatality is not a local resident, according to Gardner. Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

KHP IDs victim in fatal pedestrian accident on I-135

Downtown Salina is the place to be for First Friday fun!

The festivities will begin at the Salina Public Library, 301 W. Elm Street, where a reception is scheduled in Gallery 708 from 4-5:30 p.m. The work of Lisa Urban, mostly oil on canvas paintings, is the current ehxhibition in the gallery. Light snacks will be served.

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/b1a40682-092f-413d-9805-0be6a9928183">Salina Central grad's artwork next exhibition at Salina Public Library</a>

At 5 p.m. Friday at the downtown stage located near the intersection of N. Santa Fe Avenue and W. Ash Street, dancers from Della's Dance Studio are scheduled to perform.

Then, from 6-7:30 p.m., Vegan Shark is scheduled to perform. The band is described on its Facebook page as "not really that punk."

Additionally, Frostbite Shaved Ice will be selling their shaved ice to help cool you off.

Salina Downtown, Inc., encourages people to not bring their pets to the performances because of the heat.

Down the street, Peaceful Body Wellness Retreat, 148 S. Santa Fe, has scheduled an artist reception from 5-7 p.m. Friday. Karla Stangel Prickett is scheduled to present her mixed media and collage pieces made as a part of The Brooklyn Exchange, a creative process with Art Yard Brooklyn, Brooklyn, N.Y.

NOTE: Inclement weather may cause the events at the stage to be canceled, according to information from Salina Downtown, Inc.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656615687445.jpeg" alt="First Friday events are scheduled at multiple downtown locations. Salina Post photo" />
 <figcaption>First Friday events are scheduled at multiple downtown locations. Salina Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTDowntown Salina is the place to be for First Friday fun!The festivities will begin at the Salina Public Library, 301 W. Elm Street, where a reception is scheduled in Gallery 708 from 4-5:30 p.m. The work of Lisa Urban, mostly oil on canvas paintings, is the current ehxhibition in the gallery. Light snacks will be served.READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/b1a40682-092f-413d-9805-0be6a9928183">Salina Central grad's artwork next exhibition at Salina Public Library</a>At 5 p.m. Friday at the downtown stage located near the intersection of N. Santa Fe Avenue and W. Ash Street, dancers from Della's Dance Studio are scheduled to perform.Then, from 6-7:30 p.m., Vegan Shark is scheduled to perform. The band is described on its Facebook page as "not really that punk."Additionally, Frostbite Shaved Ice will be selling their shaved ice to help cool you off.Salina Downtown, Inc., encourages people to not bring their pets to the performances because of the heat.Down the street, Peaceful Body Wellness Retreat, 148 S. Santa Fe, has scheduled an artist reception from 5-7 p.m. Friday. Karla Stangel Prickett is scheduled to present her mixed media and collage pieces made as a part of The Brooklyn Exchange, a creative process with Art Yard Brooklyn, Brooklyn, N.Y.NOTE: Inclement weather may cause the events at the stage to be canceled, according to information from Salina Downtown, Inc.

Head to downtown Salina  for First Friday fun

<a href="http://salina.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus</a>&nbsp;played an integral role in an unmanned aircraft systems flight competition in Starkville, Miss., where prize money from federal innovation funding was awarded to drone teams for their emergency safety ideas. The National Institute of Standards and Technology's Public Safety Communications Research Division, along with K-State Salina and Mississippi State University, hosted the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uastriplechallenge.com/" target="_blank">First Responder UAS Triple Challenge</a>, a prize competition for drone enthusiasts to build and operate unmanned aircraft that can better help first responders in emergency situations. Prize money was awarded for each challenge in the multi-challenge competition. For Challenge 3.1, winners were selected for improving drone image detection and enhanced navigation techniques to close the distance more quickly. Team AMAV from the University of Maryland won $40,000 for first place; Team ARCC from Pennsylvania State University won $20,000 for second place; and Team Aggie from North Carolina A&amp;T State University/Purdue University won $10,000 for third place. The First Responders' Choice Award of $5,000 went to Team AMAV from the University of Maryland. In Challenge 3.2, teams were awarded prize money for innovating a cost-effective, robust and easily deployable drone solution that delivers data files in a cellular-denied area. Winning first place and $40,000 was Team ARCC from Penn State; second place and $20,000 went to Team Mantech/FLYT Aerospace; and third place and $10,000 went to Team EpiSci. The First Responders' Choice Award and $5,000 was claimed by Team ARCC from Penn State. The competition also awarded prize money to teams for developing an attack and countermeasure on open-source navigation or control software that may disrupt a drone's navigation for Challenge 3.3. The following winners were awarded $30,000 each: Team Mantech/FLYT Aerospace, Team ARCC from Penn State and Team CNA Corporation/RIIS LLC. K-State Salina, along with Capital Consulting, will be involved with the National Institute of Standards and Technology's 2023 drone challenge: the First Responder UAS Indoor Challenge. In this competition, competitors will embark on indoor disaster response and search and rescue, finding solutions for first responders in those difficult scenarios. Up to $685,000 in total prize money will be awarded to competitors as part of the First Responder UAS Indoor Challenge. For more information on the challenge and to register, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://firstresponderuaschallenge.org/" target="_blank">firstresponderuaschallenge.org/</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656610131298.jpeg" alt="In conjunction with the National Institute of Standards and Technology Public Safety Communications Research Division, K-State Salina and Mississippi State University helped award prize money to drone enthusiasts for their innovative ideas to help first responders in emergency situations. Photo courtesy K-State Salina" />
 <figcaption>In conjunction with the National Institute of Standards and Technology Public Safety Communications Research Division, K-State Salina and Mississippi State University helped award prize money to drone enthusiasts for their innovative ideas to help first responders in emergency situations. Photo courtesy K-State Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Salina<a href="http://salina.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus</a>&nbsp;played an integral role in an unmanned aircraft systems flight competition in Starkville, Miss., where prize money from federal innovation funding was awarded to drone teams for their emergency safety ideas. The National Institute of Standards and Technology's Public Safety Communications Research Division, along with K-State Salina and Mississippi State University, hosted the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uastriplechallenge.com/" target="_blank">First Responder UAS Triple Challenge</a>, a prize competition for drone enthusiasts to build and operate unmanned aircraft that can better help first responders in emergency situations. Prize money was awarded for each challenge in the multi-challenge competition. For Challenge 3.1, winners were selected for improving drone image detection and enhanced navigation techniques to close the distance more quickly. Team AMAV from the University of Maryland won $40,000 for first place; Team ARCC from Pennsylvania State University won $20,000 for second place; and Team Aggie from North Carolina A&amp;T State University/Purdue University won $10,000 for third place. The First Responders' Choice Award of $5,000 went to Team AMAV from the University of Maryland. In Challenge 3.2, teams were awarded prize money for innovating a cost-effective, robust and easily deployable drone solution that delivers data files in a cellular-denied area. Winning first place and $40,000 was Team ARCC from Penn State; second place and $20,000 went to Team Mantech/FLYT Aerospace; and third place and $10,000 went to Team EpiSci. The First Responders' Choice Award and $5,000 was claimed by Team ARCC from Penn State. The competition also awarded prize money to teams for developing an attack and countermeasure on open-source navigation or control software that may disrupt a drone's navigation for Challenge 3.3. The following winners were awarded $30,000 each: Team Mantech/FLYT Aerospace, Team ARCC from Penn State and Team CNA Corporation/RIIS LLC. K-State Salina, along with Capital Consulting, will be involved with the National Institute of Standards and Technology's 2023 drone challenge: the First Responder UAS Indoor Challenge. In this competition, competitors will embark on indoor disaster response and search and rescue, finding solutions for first responders in those difficult scenarios. Up to $685,000 in total prize money will be awarded to competitors as part of the First Responder UAS Indoor Challenge. For more information on the challenge and to register, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://firstresponderuaschallenge.org/" target="_blank">firstresponderuaschallenge.org/</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

K-State Salina-led innovation competition rewards drone enthusiasts

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

An Assaria man escaped a wrecked pickup before fire engulfed it south of Salina late Wednesday night.

Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning that Jonathan Yost, 43, of Assaria, was southbound in the 4900 block of S. Ohio in a 1969 Chevrolet C10 pickup at approximately 11:54 p.m. Wednesday when the pickup left the roadway and struck trees along the roadside.

Yost was able to get out of the pickup before fire engulfed it. Yost walked to a neighboring residence and called EMS, which transported him to Salina Regional Health Center, Soldan said.

Firefighters from Rural Fire District No. 2 put out the blaze.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656605113524.jpeg" alt="An Assaria man was able to escape this wreck south of Salina. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>An Assaria man was able to escape this wreck south of Salina. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostAn Assaria man escaped a wrecked pickup before fire engulfed it south of Salina late Wednesday night.Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning that Jonathan Yost, 43, of Assaria, was southbound in the 4900 block of S. Ohio in a 1969 Chevrolet C10 pickup at approximately 11:54 p.m. Wednesday when the pickup left the roadway and struck trees along the roadside.Yost was able to get out of the pickup before fire engulfed it. Yost walked to a neighboring residence and called EMS, which transported him to Salina Regional Health Center, Soldan said.Firefighters from Rural Fire District No. 2 put out the blaze.

Driver escapes wreck before fire engulfs pickup south of Salina

Police are looking for a teen who allegedly stabbed another teen during a fight in central Salina early Thursday morning.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that officers were dispatched to the 600 block of Montrose Street at 1 a.m. Thursday for the report of a possible stabbing.

Two brothers, ages 13 and 14, had been exchanging words with another 14-year-old boy for several days, beginning with a verbal altercation at Kenwood Cove, Forrester said. The boys decided to fight and the 14-year-old boy met the brothers in the 600 block of Montrose Street early this morning.

During the fight, the boy allegedly pulled a knife and stabbed the 14-year-old brother in the thigh and buttocks, Forrester said. The 13-year-old brother received a laceration on his leg, he added.

The father of the two brothers came out of the house and broke up the fight. 

The 14-year-old brother was taken to Salina Regional Health Center by a parent before police arrived. The 13-year-old was transported by EMS to Salina Regional, Forrester said.

Police are still looking for the 14-year-old boy who was involved in the fight with the brothers.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice are looking for a teen who allegedly stabbed another teen during a fight in central Salina early Thursday morning.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that officers were dispatched to the 600 block of Montrose Street at 1 a.m. Thursday for the report of a possible stabbing.Two brothers, ages 13 and 14, had been exchanging words with another 14-year-old boy for several days, beginning with a verbal altercation at Kenwood Cove, Forrester said. The boys decided to fight and the 14-year-old boy met the brothers in the 600 block of Montrose Street early this morning.During the fight, the boy allegedly pulled a knife and stabbed the 14-year-old brother in the thigh and buttocks, Forrester said. The 13-year-old brother received a laceration on his leg, he added.The father of the two brothers came out of the house and broke up the fight. The 14-year-old brother was taken to Salina Regional Health Center by a parent before police arrived. The 13-year-old was transported by EMS to Salina Regional, Forrester said.Police are still looking for the 14-year-old boy who was involved in the fight with the brothers.

Salina police seek boy who allegedly stabbed another during fight

By TIM UNRUH For Salina Airport Authority

An old-school go-getter has won national attention for his customer service in the aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul industry.

Swift, detailed, and accurate work is a must at 1 Vision Aviation that has mushroomed to global prominence, thanks to the approach, attitude, and staff of owner and CEO Jimmy Sponder.

“It’s quality work done in a timely fashion, getting the airplane back in the sky before anyone else,” he said. “We understand airplanes don’t make money sitting on the ground.”

The growing firm, based in Sioux City, Iowa, that opened a successful expansion in Salina in September 2019 — was listed in March among aviation’s top 10 MRO companies in the United States, by the Aerospace &amp; Defense Review, a national trade magazine.

The distinction has instilled pride in the growing business that endures despite challenging times.

“We’re still very busy. We just flew in six more planes (in mid-April) and we’ve taken on corporate jets,” said Mandy Merritt, 1 Vision’s director of quality assurance.

Salina operations are centered in a 130,000-square-foot hangar nicknamed “Big Bertha” where up to six Boeing 737s can be brought inside for repairs and other simultaneous services.

The growing staff also services regional and corporate jets in Salina and general aviation aircraft in Sioux City.

Up to a couple of dozen jets typically ring Big Bertha where they are stored or await service. Some jets were flown to north-central Kansas from France, Ukraine, Mexico and Australia.

“1 Vision Aviation is the partner of choice for airlines that offers qualified and trained technicians to perform aircraft maintenance, service checks, heavy checks, modifications, sheet metal work, refurbishment, fiberglass repair, and more,” according to the magazine story.

It opens by recounting a memorable experience for the company in 2017 when an American Airlines flight hit a deer during takeoff in Charlotte, N.C. A technical team from 1 Vision responded quickly “and got the aircraft in service within two days, which was incredible given the damage it had undergone,” the story reads.

Being “one of the fastest on the scene,” Sponder said, is what sets his crew apart.

The stubborn company founder figures out unique ways to solve problems, such as buying an eight-bedroom home in Salina when 1 Vision expanded there. Those digs, where Sponder and his wife, Robyne, also live, eased a housing shortage for up to 14 of his initial 35 workers. All, by the way, are considered family.

While Salina and Saline County leaders worked to add workforce housing to the burgeoning economy, Sponder himself considered a foray into real estate that would lead to a number of employers filling worker voids.

That 1 Vision Aviation roster has grown to 250 covering two shifts, with a goal of four times that many workers.

Hiring skilled airframe and power plant mechanics has presented challenges, and some of his workers have opted for flight school and are pursuing careers as commercial pilots.

To improve his chances to hire more, Sponder’s company includes an apprenticeship program. Three in April have completed necessary on-the-job training, achieved approval from the Federal Aviation Administration to test for certification, and passed. A total of 20 have gotten licensed so far. Six more are in the process.

“The FAA has to approve them to test. They look at training records to see if they’re able,” Merritt said. “(1 Vision workers) are always ready to move up in the company.”

A 1 Vision employee since 2019, Jabier Martinez completed his airframe and power plant certification April 8.

He collected on-the-job training cards with every project and have them signed by a certified A&amp;P. After 18 months in the program, with credit for his experience in the U.S. Army, Martinez passed his test and is working today as 1 Vision’s avionics manager in Salina. It came with a “big raise and a sense of pride. Jim was willing to trust me to do my job professionally. He puts a lot of trust in his guys.”

A long association with Sponder and Vice President of Operations Kevin Boyer, enticed Doug Gann, former sheet metal worker for Boeing and Cessna and operations manager at Gulf stream, to seek employment at 1 Vision. He also entered the apprenticeship program 18 months ago.

“Having my A&amp;P opens up a lot of doors. I want to move up and become a project manager,” Gann said. “During the last seven or eight jobs I’ve had, I was always looking for something better. I’m not looking any more.”

Having his A&amp;P certification is empowering, he said.

“When you see that airplane take off after a heavy check, you realize you had something to do with that,” Gann said.

He’s definitely a proponent of the 1 Vision apprenticeship.

“People with not a lot of experience can come and get their license,” Gann said.

After learning that it’s common for A&amp;P mechanics to take early retirement and move to Florida, Sponder stayed true to his mantra and hatched a plan for 1 Vision to soon open an MRO division in the warm and sunny beach state.

“We are getting a lot of calls from people wanting to work in Florida,” Sponder said.

But there’s a catch that he believes will help grow the staff elsewhere.

“To get to Florida, you’ve gotta pay your dues and prove yourself in Salina or Sioux City,” he said. “Upper managers who want to go, have to train their replacement.”

Part of 1 Vision’s way is to keep growing and avoid stagnation.

“It’s Jim’s ownership style,” Merritt said. “When the business gets to where he wants it to be, he moves on and grows it even more.”

Sponder hasn’t changed in his 31-year career.

“I keep lighting fires,” he said. “When they do get lit, we stoke ‘em like an after-burner and push it forward.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656553176956.jpeg" alt="1 Vision Aviation employees work on a jet at hangar H959 at Salina Regional Airport. Photo courtesy Salina Airport Authority" />
 <figcaption>1 Vision Aviation employees work on a jet at hangar H959 at Salina Regional Airport. Photo courtesy Salina Airport Authority</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM UNRUH For Salina Airport AuthorityAn old-school go-getter has won national attention for his customer service in the aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul industry.Swift, detailed, and accurate work is a must at 1 Vision Aviation that has mushroomed to global prominence, thanks to the approach, attitude, and staff of owner and CEO Jimmy Sponder.“It’s quality work done in a timely fashion, getting the airplane back in the sky before anyone else,” he said. “We understand airplanes don’t make money sitting on the ground.”The growing firm, based in Sioux City, Iowa, that opened a successful expansion in Salina in September 2019 — was listed in March among aviation’s top 10 MRO companies in the United States, by the Aerospace &amp; Defense Review, a national trade magazine.The distinction has instilled pride in the growing business that endures despite challenging times.“We’re still very busy. We just flew in six more planes (in mid-April) and we’ve taken on corporate jets,” said Mandy Merritt, 1 Vision’s director of quality assurance.Salina operations are centered in a 130,000-square-foot hangar nicknamed “Big Bertha” where up to six Boeing 737s can be brought inside for repairs and other simultaneous services.The growing staff also services regional and corporate jets in Salina and general aviation aircraft in Sioux City.Up to a couple of dozen jets typically ring Big Bertha where they are stored or await service. Some jets were flown to north-central Kansas from France, Ukraine, Mexico and Australia.“1 Vision Aviation is the partner of choice for airlines that offers qualified and trained technicians to perform aircraft maintenance, service checks, heavy checks, modifications, sheet metal work, refurbishment, fiberglass repair, and more,” according to the magazine story.It opens by recounting a memorable experience for the company in 2017 when an American Airlines flight hit a deer during takeoff in Charlotte, N.C. A technical team from 1 Vision responded quickly “and got the aircraft in service within two days, which was incredible given the damage it had undergone,” the story reads.Being “one of the fastest on the scene,” Sponder said, is what sets his crew apart.The stubborn company founder figures out unique ways to solve problems, such as buying an eight-bedroom home in Salina when 1 Vision expanded there. Those digs, where Sponder and his wife, Robyne, also live, eased a housing shortage for up to 14 of his initial 35 workers. All, by the way, are considered family.While Salina and Saline County leaders worked to add workforce housing to the burgeoning economy, Sponder himself considered a foray into real estate that would lead to a number of employers filling worker voids.That 1 Vision Aviation roster has grown to 250 covering two shifts, with a goal of four times that many workers.Hiring skilled airframe and power plant mechanics has presented challenges, and some of his workers have opted for flight school and are pursuing careers as commercial pilots.To improve his chances to hire more, Sponder’s company includes an apprenticeship program. Three in April have completed necessary on-the-job training, achieved approval from the Federal Aviation Administration to test for certification, and passed. A total of 20 have gotten licensed so far. Six more are in the process.“The FAA has to approve them to test. They look at training records to see if they’re able,” Merritt said. “(1 Vision workers) are always ready to move up in the company.”A 1 Vision employee since 2019, Jabier Martinez completed his airframe and power plant certification April 8.He collected on-the-job training cards with every project and have them signed by a certified A&amp;P. After 18 months in the program, with credit for his experience in the U.S. Army, Martinez passed his test and is working today as 1 Vision’s avionics manager in Salina. It came with a “big raise and a sense of pride. Jim was willing to trust me to do my job professionally. He puts a lot of trust in his guys.”A long association with Sponder and Vice President of Operations Kevin Boyer, enticed Doug Gann, former sheet metal worker for Boeing and Cessna and operations manager at Gulf stream, to seek employment at 1 Vision. He also entered the apprenticeship program 18 months ago.“Having my A&amp;P opens up a lot of doors. I want to move up and become a project manager,” Gann said. “During the last seven or eight jobs I’ve had, I was always looking for something better. I’m not looking any more.”Having his A&amp;P certification is empowering, he said.“When you see that airplane take off after a heavy check, you realize you had something to do with that,” Gann said.He’s definitely a proponent of the 1 Vision apprenticeship.“People with not a lot of experience can come and get their license,” Gann said.After learning that it’s common for A&amp;P mechanics to take early retirement and move to Florida, Sponder stayed true to his mantra and hatched a plan for 1 Vision to soon open an MRO division in the warm and sunny beach state.“We are getting a lot of calls from people wanting to work in Florida,” Sponder said.But there’s a catch that he believes will help grow the staff elsewhere.“To get to Florida, you’ve gotta pay your dues and prove yourself in Salina or Sioux City,” he said. “Upper managers who want to go, have to train their replacement.”Part of 1 Vision’s way is to keep growing and avoid stagnation.“It’s Jim’s ownership style,” Merritt said. “When the business gets to where he wants it to be, he moves on and grows it even more.”Sponder hasn’t changed in his 31-year career.“I keep lighting fires,” he said. “When they do get lit, we stoke ‘em like an after-burner and push it forward.”

1 Vision snares national attention for service to aviation

By KATHY HAGEMAN Dickinson County public information coordinator

Dickinson County employees are getting some extra help to deal with the rising cost of fuel, groceries and other increasing prices.

County commissioners, during the June 23 meeting, approved a two percent mid-year pay adjustment for employees, effective July 1. The increase will impact the existing budget by $128,000.

County Administrator Brad Homman said this is a step some other counties and cities have done due to the tremendous increases in the cost of products.

“We were talking about either a one-time stipend or a slight pay increase in the middle of the year taken from the existing budget,” Homman said. “We’re doing this to help our staff out through a period of hyperinflation we’ve never seen before in our lives.”

Homman said elected officials and department heads keep a good eye on their budgets and staff is confident the money is available in the existing budget.

Commission Chairman Lynn Peterson noted the pay adjustment is part of a regularly planned increase that would have started in January 2023.

“This money will be taken off what will be approved for Jan. 1 of the upcoming year. We’re just giving it a little early. Otherwise it, would be given at the beginning of the year,” Homman said.

Peterson commented that businesses often plan on giving wage increases that take effect at the first of the year or on an employee’s hiring anniversary.

“The pay increase would have occurred the first of the year. But because we have enough money set aside, it seemed like an appropriate time to consider this,” Peterson said.

Homman thanked the commission on behalf of county employees and Peterson responded that employees are a “great asset” for the county.

“The training that takes place, the skill set they have, it’s important we have employee retention and an attractive place for people to work,” Peterson said.

County Counselor Doug Thompson said 168 properties are on the next sale of properties with delinquent taxes. In comparison, only 34 properties were sold during the delinquent tax sale earlier this year. The spike is because no tax sale was held in 2020 or 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so several years are included.

Thompson said information already has been sent out to the two local title companies to do title searches, but he is hopeful affected people will get caught up on their taxes before the properties go into foreclosure.

●The 1510 Rain Road Bridge is nearly complete, but recent rains caused a new problem. Homman said the ground on the south side of the bridge was very wet, causing equipment to sink into the ground. However, the county’s road and bridge department was able to bring in rock so the ground would hold.

“The fact that we put the rock in, with compaction, there will be no extra cost. They (the contractor) said Dickinson County always helps them out,” Homman said.

The rain also delayed building the bridge approaches, but the hope was that guard rails would be installed soon so the bridge could reopen.

●Commissioners reviewed a draft resolution regarding placing the question of liquor by the individual drink on the November general election ballot. They are expected to approve the resolution during the June 30 meeting.

●Heard from Homman that commissioners will receive a resolution June 30 setting a minimum bond amount for township treasurers.

●Homman said railroad officials had been contacted about a car derailment by Sand Springs, but they were dealing with a 43-car derailment near Lawrence that would take weeks to clean up. So, the local derailment would have to wait.

●Homman said he is working with Herington and Solomon school districts regarding a child care project. More information will be presented to commissioners at a future meeting.

●The commission approved change orders 113 to 136 for the courthouse renovation project, amounting to $192,000. Homman said this was a “housekeeping” item since the commission was informed of the changes as they occurred. Some of the items include solar shades for the front entrance and Treasurer Leah Hern’s office, a door for a judge’s chamber, a three-way light switch and other items.

●The commission approved an application for property tax relief for a property at 1690 3100 Ave., owned by Mathew and Gaea Hock. The house was destroyed by fire on March 22. State legislation gives counties the ability to grant property tax relief due to the severity of damage and/or total loss.

Since the damage occurred before August 2022, the commission has the authority to forgive property taxes.

“Essentially you are forgiving the property taxes for this year, giving them time to regroup and rebuild their home,” Homman said.

By KATHY HAGEMAN Dickinson County public information coordinatorDickinson County employees are getting some extra help to deal with the rising cost of fuel, groceries and other increasing prices.County commissioners, during the June 23 meeting, approved a two percent mid-year pay adjustment for employees, effective July 1. The increase will impact the existing budget by $128,000.County Administrator Brad Homman said this is a step some other counties and cities have done due to the tremendous increases in the cost of products.“We were talking about either a one-time stipend or a slight pay increase in the middle of the year taken from the existing budget,” Homman said. “We’re doing this to help our staff out through a period of hyperinflation we’ve never seen before in our lives.”Homman said elected officials and department heads keep a good eye on their budgets and staff is confident the money is available in the existing budget.Commission Chairman Lynn Peterson noted the pay adjustment is part of a regularly planned increase that would have started in January 2023.“This money will be taken off what will be approved for Jan. 1 of the upcoming year. We’re just giving it a little early. Otherwise it, would be given at the beginning of the year,” Homman said.Peterson commented that businesses often plan on giving wage increases that take effect at the first of the year or on an employee’s hiring anniversary.“The pay increase would have occurred the first of the year. But because we have enough money set aside, it seemed like an appropriate time to consider this,” Peterson said.Homman thanked the commission on behalf of county employees and Peterson responded that employees are a “great asset” for the county.“The training that takes place, the skill set they have, it’s important we have employee retention and an attractive place for people to work,” Peterson said.Delinquent property listCounty Counselor Doug Thompson said 168 properties are on the next sale of properties with delinquent taxes. In comparison, only 34 properties were sold during the delinquent tax sale earlier this year. The spike is because no tax sale was held in 2020 or 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so several years are included.Thompson said information already has been sent out to the two local title companies to do title searches, but he is hopeful affected people will get caught up on their taxes before the properties go into foreclosure.Other●The 1510 Rain Road Bridge is nearly complete, but recent rains caused a new problem. Homman said the ground on the south side of the bridge was very wet, causing equipment to sink into the ground. However, the county’s road and bridge department was able to bring in rock so the ground would hold.“The fact that we put the rock in, with compaction, there will be no extra cost. They (the contractor) said Dickinson County always helps them out,” Homman said.The rain also delayed building the bridge approaches, but the hope was that guard rails would be installed soon so the bridge could reopen.●Commissioners reviewed a draft resolution regarding placing the question of liquor by the individual drink on the November general election ballot. They are expected to approve the resolution during the June 30 meeting.●Heard from Homman that commissioners will receive a resolution June 30 setting a minimum bond amount for township treasurers.●Homman said railroad officials had been contacted about a car derailment by Sand Springs, but they were dealing with a 43-car derailment near Lawrence that would take weeks to clean up. So, the local derailment would have to wait.●Homman said he is working with Herington and Solomon school districts regarding a child care project. More information will be presented to commissioners at a future meeting.●The commission approved change orders 113 to 136 for the courthouse renovation project, amounting to $192,000. Homman said this was a “housekeeping” item since the commission was informed of the changes as they occurred. Some of the items include solar shades for the front entrance and Treasurer Leah Hern’s office, a door for a judge’s chamber, a three-way light switch and other items.●The commission approved an application for property tax relief for a property at 1690 3100 Ave., owned by Mathew and Gaea Hock. The house was destroyed by fire on March 22. State legislation gives counties the ability to grant property tax relief due to the severity of damage and/or total loss.Since the damage occurred before August 2022, the commission has the authority to forgive property taxes.“Essentially you are forgiving the property taxes for this year, giving them time to regroup and rebuild their home,” Homman said.

Dickinson County employees get early pay adjustment

Warm today with breezy conditions throughout the day. 

Storms are possible along and north of Interstate 70 this evening through the overnight hours.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656590496704.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>National Weather ServiceWarm today with breezy conditions throughout the day. Storms are possible along and north of Interstate 70 this evening through the overnight hours.

National Weather Service: Hot today, storms possible tonight

Today is Thursday, June 30, the 181st day of 2022. There are 184 days left in the year.

On June 30, 1982, the proposed Equal Rights Amendment to the U.S. Constitution expired, having failed to receive the required number of ratifications for its adoption, despite having its seven-year deadline extended by three years.

In 1918, labor activist and socialist Eugene V. Debs was arrested in Cleveland, charged under the Espionage Act of 1917 for a speech he'd made two weeks earlier denouncing U.S. involvement in World War I. (Debs was sentenced to prison and disenfranchised for life.)

In 1921, President Warren G. Harding nominated former President William Howard Taft to be chief justice of the United States, succeeding the late Edward Douglass White.

In 1934, Adolf Hitler launched his "blood purge" of political and military rivals in Germany in what came to be known as "The Night of the Long Knives."

In 1958, the U.S. Senate passed the Alaska statehood bill by a vote of 64-20.

In 1971, the Supreme Court ruled, 6-3, that the government could not prevent The New York Times or The Washington Post from publishing the Pentagon Papers. A Soviet space mission ended in tragedy when three cosmonauts aboard Soyuz 11 were found dead of asphyxiation inside their capsule after it had returned to Earth.

In 1985, 39 American hostages from a hijacked TWA jetliner were freed in Beirut after being held 17 days.

In 1986, the Supreme Court, in Bowers v. Hardwick, ruled 5-4 that states could outlaw homosexual acts between consenting adults (however, the nation's highest court effectively reversed this decision in 2003 in Lawrence v. Texas).

In 1994, the U.S. Figure Skating Association stripped Tonya Harding of the national championship and banned her for life for her role in the attack on rival Nancy Kerrigan.

In 2009, American soldier Pfc. Bowe R. Bergdahl went missing from his base in eastern Afghanistan, and was later confirmed to have been captured by insurgents after walking away from his post. (Bergdahl was released on May 31, 2014 in exchange for five Taliban detainees; he pleaded guilty to desertion and misbehavior before the enemy, but was spared a prison sentence by a military judge.)

In 2013, 19 elite firefighters known as members of the Granite Mountain Hotshots were killed battling a wildfire northwest of Phoenix after a change in wind direction pushed the flames back toward their position.

In 2016, saying it was the right thing to do, Defense Secretary Ash Carter announced that transgender people would be allowed to serve openly in the U.S. military, ending one of the last bans on service in the armed forces.

In 2020, Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves signed a landmark bill retiring the last state flag bearing the Confederate battle emblem. Boston's arts commission voted unanimously to remove a statue depicting a freed slave kneeling at Abraham Lincoln's feet.

Ten years ago: Islamist Mohammed Morsi became Egypt's first freely elected president as he was sworn in during a pair of ceremonies. An international conference in Geneva accepted a U.N.-brokered peace plan calling for creation of a transitional government in Syria, but at Russia's insistence the compromise left the door open to Syria's president being a part of it. Former Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Shamir died at age 96.

Five years ago: President Donald Trump and South Korea's new leader, Moon Jae-in, concluding two days of talks at the White House, showed joint resolve on North Korea despite their divergent philosophies for addressing the nuclear threat.

One year ago: Pennsylvania's highest court threw out Bill Cosby's sexual assault conviction and released him from prison, ruling that the prosecutor who brought the case was bound by his predecessor's agreement not to charge Cosby; the comedian had served nearly three years of a three- to 10-year sentence. Sharply split along party lines, the House launched a new investigation of the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection, approving a special committee to probe the violent attack. TV actor Allison Mack was sentenced to three years in prison for manipulating women into becoming sex slaves for the spiritual leader of the cult-like group NXIVM.

Today's Birthdays: Actor Lea Massari is 89. Actor Nancy Dussault is 86. Songwriter Tony Hatch is 83. Singer Glenn Shorrock is 78. Actor Leonard Whiting is 72. Jazz musician Stanley Clarke is 71. Actor David Garrison is 70. Rock musician Hal Lindes (Dire Straits) is 69. Actor-comedian David Alan Grier is 66. Actor Vincent D'Onofrio is 63. Actor Deirdre Lovejoy is 60. Actor Rupert Graves is 59. Former boxer Mike Tyson is 56. Actor Peter Outerbridge is 56. Rock musician Tom Drummond (Better Than Ezra) is 53. Actor-comedian Tony Rock (TV: "Living Biblically") is 53. Actor Brian Bloom is 52. Actor Monica Potter is 51. Actor Molly Parker is 50. Actor Rick Gonzalez is 43. Actor Tom Burke is 41. Actor Lizzy Caplan is 40. Actor Susannah Flood is 40. Rock musician James Adam Shelley (American Authors) is 39. Country singer Cole Swindell is 39. R&amp;B singer Fantasia is 38. Olympic gold medal swimmer Michael Phelps is 37. Actor Sean Marquette (TV: "The Goldbergs") is 34.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Thursday, June 30, the 181st day of 2022. There are 184 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On June 30, 1982, the proposed Equal Rights Amendment to the U.S. Constitution expired, having failed to receive the required number of ratifications for its adoption, despite having its seven-year deadline extended by three years.On this date:In 1918, labor activist and socialist Eugene V. Debs was arrested in Cleveland, charged under the Espionage Act of 1917 for a speech he'd made two weeks earlier denouncing U.S. involvement in World War I. (Debs was sentenced to prison and disenfranchised for life.)In 1921, President Warren G. Harding nominated former President William Howard Taft to be chief justice of the United States, succeeding the late Edward Douglass White.In 1934, Adolf Hitler launched his "blood purge" of political and military rivals in Germany in what came to be known as "The Night of the Long Knives."In 1958, the U.S. Senate passed the Alaska statehood bill by a vote of 64-20.In 1971, the Supreme Court ruled, 6-3, that the government could not prevent The New York Times or The Washington Post from publishing the Pentagon Papers. A Soviet space mission ended in tragedy when three cosmonauts aboard Soyuz 11 were found dead of asphyxiation inside their capsule after it had returned to Earth.In 1985, 39 American hostages from a hijacked TWA jetliner were freed in Beirut after being held 17 days.In 1986, the Supreme Court, in Bowers v. Hardwick, ruled 5-4 that states could outlaw homosexual acts between consenting adults (however, the nation's highest court effectively reversed this decision in 2003 in Lawrence v. Texas).In 1994, the U.S. Figure Skating Association stripped Tonya Harding of the national championship and banned her for life for her role in the attack on rival Nancy Kerrigan.In 2009, American soldier Pfc. Bowe R. Bergdahl went missing from his base in eastern Afghanistan, and was later confirmed to have been captured by insurgents after walking away from his post. (Bergdahl was released on May 31, 2014 in exchange for five Taliban detainees; he pleaded guilty to desertion and misbehavior before the enemy, but was spared a prison sentence by a military judge.)In 2013, 19 elite firefighters known as members of the Granite Mountain Hotshots were killed battling a wildfire northwest of Phoenix after a change in wind direction pushed the flames back toward their position.In 2016, saying it was the right thing to do, Defense Secretary Ash Carter announced that transgender people would be allowed to serve openly in the U.S. military, ending one of the last bans on service in the armed forces.In 2020, Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves signed a landmark bill retiring the last state flag bearing the Confederate battle emblem. Boston's arts commission voted unanimously to remove a statue depicting a freed slave kneeling at Abraham Lincoln's feet.Ten years ago: Islamist Mohammed Morsi became Egypt's first freely elected president as he was sworn in during a pair of ceremonies. An international conference in Geneva accepted a U.N.-brokered peace plan calling for creation of a transitional government in Syria, but at Russia's insistence the compromise left the door open to Syria's president being a part of it. Former Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Shamir died at age 96.Five years ago: President Donald Trump and South Korea's new leader, Moon Jae-in, concluding two days of talks at the White House, showed joint resolve on North Korea despite their divergent philosophies for addressing the nuclear threat.One year ago: Pennsylvania's highest court threw out Bill Cosby's sexual assault conviction and released him from prison, ruling that the prosecutor who brought the case was bound by his predecessor's agreement not to charge Cosby; the comedian had served nearly three years of a three- to 10-year sentence. Sharply split along party lines, the House launched a new investigation of the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection, approving a special committee to probe the violent attack. TV actor Allison Mack was sentenced to three years in prison for manipulating women into becoming sex slaves for the spiritual leader of the cult-like group NXIVM.Today's Birthdays: Actor Lea Massari is 89. Actor Nancy Dussault is 86. Songwriter Tony Hatch is 83. Singer Glenn Shorrock is 78. Actor Leonard Whiting is 72. Jazz musician Stanley Clarke is 71. Actor David Garrison is 70. Rock musician Hal Lindes (Dire Straits) is 69. Actor-comedian David Alan Grier is 66. Actor Vincent D'Onofrio is 63. Actor Deirdre Lovejoy is 60. Actor Rupert Graves is 59. Former boxer Mike Tyson is 56. Actor Peter Outerbridge is 56. Rock musician Tom Drummond (Better Than Ezra) is 53. Actor-comedian Tony Rock (TV: "Living Biblically") is 53. Actor Brian Bloom is 52. Actor Monica Potter is 51. Actor Molly Parker is 50. Actor Rick Gonzalez is 43. Actor Tom Burke is 41. Actor Lizzy Caplan is 40. Actor Susannah Flood is 40. Rock musician James Adam Shelley (American Authors) is 39. Country singer Cole Swindell is 39. R&amp;B singer Fantasia is 38. Olympic gold medal swimmer Michael Phelps is 37. Actor Sean Marquette (TV: "The Goldbergs") is 34.

Today in History - June 30

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For more information, or to apply, please go to&nbsp;<a href="http://occk.com/">OCCK.com</a>&nbsp;and click on the CAREERS tab.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592535783410.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OCCK, Inc. is growing!We have openings in Salina, Abilene, Beloit, and Concordia.We are currently looking for:●Home Care Attendants●Direct Support Professionals●Independent Living Specialists●Physician Therapy Assistant●Team Leaders●Drivers●Master Level Autism Specialist●Master Social Worker●Targeted Case ManagersWe offer many options for employment – you can work as little or as much as you want!For more information, or to apply, please go to&nbsp;<a href="http://occk.com/">OCCK.com</a>&nbsp;and click on the CAREERS tab.

FHSU releases spring 2022 Dean’s Honor Roll

By JULIA DEBES Kansas Wheat

Combines are now on the roll in northwest and north central Kansas with the return of hot, windy weather. Mid-harvest rains have reduced test weights, but variety selection and farming practices are making a big difference in how the crop is finishing out.

Tanner Durham was cutting south of Randall in Jewell County on Wednesday. The family also farms in neighboring Mitchell County. Harvest here in north central Kansas is on time, having started on Monday and hoping to finish up by Friday without rain delays. Yields are coming in from the upper 30 bushels per acre up to the 60s bushels per acre range. Proteins are averaging around 12 percent. Test weights started at 62 pounds per bushel, but after some mid-harvest rains are now at 57 pounds per bushel.

Overall, Durham reported it’s been a good harvest with clean wheat and decent seed size. The wheat is short compared to a normal year, but nowhere near as short as in other parts of the state. With spring planting also complete, farm life in north central Kansas is right on track.

Closer to the Colorado border, the Schemm family — son Clay and parents Lisa and David — started harvest in Logan County on June 21 and now have moved west to Wallace County. The family operation has more wheat acres this year, so they are harvesting about a third of their acres and hiring custom cutters to cut the other two-thirds. Altogether, they hope to be done cutting by the upcoming holiday.

Clay Schemm noted there was not much fall growth, but a hefty early spring snow of 24 inches brought much-needed moisture during an otherwise dry year. The snow and May rains helped the wheat significantly.

As a result, their farm yields — while still below normal — are averaging around 50 bushels per acre. Test weights are heavy at 61 to 63 pounds per bushel. Proteins are averaging 12.5 percent and above. Clay Schemm noted two varieties — KS Dallas from the Kansas Wheat Alliance and AgriPro/Syngenta's SY Wolverine — are performing particularly well.

Fields have a little weed pressure where stands are thin but no disease pressure. The operation recently switched back to minimum tillage, where the family tills the ground before planting wheat to control perennial grasses that are resistant to chemical applications. Clay Schemm said they would ideally use a cost-effective herbicide to control the weeds, but without that option, tilling the soil is essential to keeping weeds down to preserve soil moisture.

Tillage is a tool also used by Mosbarger Family Farms, which grows wheat in three northwest Kansas counties. Wheat is an important part of their crop rotation, building residue for next year’s crop.

“That’s the way we make two years of dryland corn work,” said John Mosbarger, who is based in Goodland. They plan to continue their normal crop rotation regardless of price changes for the different crops.

Mosbarger explained their operation was entirely no-till until three years ago when they decided to start making two to three passes with the sweep before drilling wheat. Working the ground is giving them larger soil particle size, less wind erosion and better wheat emergence.

“We like to pull from a lot of different practices so that we have the most tools in our toolbox,” he said.

In addition, they’ve been fighting palmer amaranth and kochia, two weeds that are resistant to herbicides.

“They aren’t resistant to steel yet,” he joked.

This year’s wheat harvest just started for Mosbarger Family Farms on June 27 and is expected to last about two weeks.

While harvesting a field of KS Hamilton in Cheyenne County, Mosbarger said, “Wheat is pretty amazing,” noting that they didn’t get the stand they wanted in the fall and there was limited moisture throughout the growing season. Variability from field to field is based on emergence last fall. Regardless, he expects their farm to average 45 bushels per acre this year. Test weights are averaging 60 pounds per bushel and protein is right around 12 percent.

Mosbarger noted their expectations of yield have changed over the years, normally hoping to grow at least 60-bushel wheat. Even though this year’s crop isn’t meeting those expectations, it’s much better than they anticipated in March.

The 2022 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers and the Kansas Grain and Feed Association. To follow along with harvest updates on Twitter, use&nbsp;#wheatharvest22. Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001AuygtUsLKsx1SFAs1QsQ79NruvfTykWWATgCsSMFl9Qsn9mclipB1kpA6XhLUO4q9-DlkyQzwVhdfCLizFOrUA6t2csft_eIgpaprl73fbj2qdsVrDweRXcKHlG6YsU1Qgeu_khcPRicliyrWA5wYd71MgxWdkc0&amp;c=56Xdu9Rj3QXsiVpAIL9VRtcqcGdy78bg4xth8KNqtx8aAdP9H51jHw==&amp;ch=awpQV7tw5jHdY7aZM1w5fUBRM4kgn6z0UI2-RvteBdmvMkA-IWhxTQ==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001AuygtUsLKsx1SFAs1QsQ79NruvfTykWWATgCsSMFl9Qsn9mclipB1psNEm09WU6X3JKbiuPbQrLo4WdAOFIi2TRaYjguEfv-4aL7uiSWakwoHNUJQCSnDECI1mAZBSZ-tUhHoTL-Vszxn3VH8If1qctuUThVLCf-&amp;c=56Xdu9Rj3QXsiVpAIL9VRtcqcGdy78bg4xth8KNqtx8aAdP9H51jHw==&amp;ch=awpQV7tw5jHdY7aZM1w5fUBRM4kgn6z0UI2-RvteBdmvMkA-IWhxTQ==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001AuygtUsLKsx1SFAs1QsQ79NruvfTykWWATgCsSMFl9Qsn9mclipB1uYnkwVvigbtK1nGbNzHKvmDZJrNZS1R2a_OFkecQCTPJSXR0Y09SETM07GTsIDXkb3tyrpXevQzPfJrQ0uampikAI9npUU4N8qHnO1dPoM3&amp;c=56Xdu9Rj3QXsiVpAIL9VRtcqcGdy78bg4xth8KNqtx8aAdP9H51jHw==&amp;ch=awpQV7tw5jHdY7aZM1w5fUBRM4kgn6z0UI2-RvteBdmvMkA-IWhxTQ==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656549131094.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JULIA DEBES Kansas WheatCombines are now on the roll in northwest and north central Kansas with the return of hot, windy weather. Mid-harvest rains have reduced test weights, but variety selection and farming practices are making a big difference in how the crop is finishing out. Tanner Durham was cutting south of Randall in Jewell County on Wednesday. The family also farms in neighboring Mitchell County. Harvest here in north central Kansas is on time, having started on Monday and hoping to finish up by Friday without rain delays. Yields are coming in from the upper 30 bushels per acre up to the 60s bushels per acre range. Proteins are averaging around 12 percent. Test weights started at 62 pounds per bushel, but after some mid-harvest rains are now at 57 pounds per bushel. Overall, Durham reported it’s been a good harvest with clean wheat and decent seed size. The wheat is short compared to a normal year, but nowhere near as short as in other parts of the state. With spring planting also complete, farm life in north central Kansas is right on track. Closer to the Colorado border, the Schemm family — son Clay and parents Lisa and David — started harvest in Logan County on June 21 and now have moved west to Wallace County. The family operation has more wheat acres this year, so they are harvesting about a third of their acres and hiring custom cutters to cut the other two-thirds. Altogether, they hope to be done cutting by the upcoming holiday. Clay Schemm noted there was not much fall growth, but a hefty early spring snow of 24 inches brought much-needed moisture during an otherwise dry year. The snow and May rains helped the wheat significantly. As a result, their farm yields — while still below normal — are averaging around 50 bushels per acre. Test weights are heavy at 61 to 63 pounds per bushel. Proteins are averaging 12.5 percent and above. Clay Schemm noted two varieties — KS Dallas from the Kansas Wheat Alliance and AgriPro/Syngenta's SY Wolverine — are performing particularly well. Fields have a little weed pressure where stands are thin but no disease pressure. The operation recently switched back to minimum tillage, where the family tills the ground before planting wheat to control perennial grasses that are resistant to chemical applications. Clay Schemm said they would ideally use a cost-effective herbicide to control the weeds, but without that option, tilling the soil is essential to keeping weeds down to preserve soil moisture. Tillage is a tool also used by Mosbarger Family Farms, which grows wheat in three northwest Kansas counties. Wheat is an important part of their crop rotation, building residue for next year’s crop. “That’s the way we make two years of dryland corn work,” said John Mosbarger, who is based in Goodland. They plan to continue their normal crop rotation regardless of price changes for the different crops. Mosbarger explained their operation was entirely no-till until three years ago when they decided to start making two to three passes with the sweep before drilling wheat. Working the ground is giving them larger soil particle size, less wind erosion and better wheat emergence. “We like to pull from a lot of different practices so that we have the most tools in our toolbox,” he said. In addition, they’ve been fighting palmer amaranth and kochia, two weeds that are resistant to herbicides. “They aren’t resistant to steel yet,” he joked. This year’s wheat harvest just started for Mosbarger Family Farms on June 27 and is expected to last about two weeks. While harvesting a field of KS Hamilton in Cheyenne County, Mosbarger said, “Wheat is pretty amazing,” noting that they didn’t get the stand they wanted in the fall and there was limited moisture throughout the growing season. Variability from field to field is based on emergence last fall. Regardless, he expects their farm to average 45 bushels per acre this year. Test weights are averaging 60 pounds per bushel and protein is right around 12 percent. Mosbarger noted their expectations of yield have changed over the years, normally hoping to grow at least 60-bushel wheat. Even though this year’s crop isn’t meeting those expectations, it’s much better than they anticipated in March.The 2022 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers and the Kansas Grain and Feed Association. To follow along with harvest updates on Twitter, use&nbsp;#wheatharvest22. Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001AuygtUsLKsx1SFAs1QsQ79NruvfTykWWATgCsSMFl9Qsn9mclipB1kpA6XhLUO4q9-DlkyQzwVhdfCLizFOrUA6t2csft_eIgpaprl73fbj2qdsVrDweRXcKHlG6YsU1Qgeu_khcPRicliyrWA5wYd71MgxWdkc0&amp;c=56Xdu9Rj3QXsiVpAIL9VRtcqcGdy78bg4xth8KNqtx8aAdP9H51jHw==&amp;ch=awpQV7tw5jHdY7aZM1w5fUBRM4kgn6z0UI2-RvteBdmvMkA-IWhxTQ==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001AuygtUsLKsx1SFAs1QsQ79NruvfTykWWATgCsSMFl9Qsn9mclipB1psNEm09WU6X3JKbiuPbQrLo4WdAOFIi2TRaYjguEfv-4aL7uiSWakwoHNUJQCSnDECI1mAZBSZ-tUhHoTL-Vszxn3VH8If1qctuUThVLCf-&amp;c=56Xdu9Rj3QXsiVpAIL9VRtcqcGdy78bg4xth8KNqtx8aAdP9H51jHw==&amp;ch=awpQV7tw5jHdY7aZM1w5fUBRM4kgn6z0UI2-RvteBdmvMkA-IWhxTQ==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001AuygtUsLKsx1SFAs1QsQ79NruvfTykWWATgCsSMFl9Qsn9mclipB1uYnkwVvigbtK1nGbNzHKvmDZJrNZS1R2a_OFkecQCTPJSXR0Y09SETM07GTsIDXkb3tyrpXevQzPfJrQ0uampikAI9npUU4N8qHnO1dPoM3&amp;c=56Xdu9Rj3QXsiVpAIL9VRtcqcGdy78bg4xth8KNqtx8aAdP9H51jHw==&amp;ch=awpQV7tw5jHdY7aZM1w5fUBRM4kgn6z0UI2-RvteBdmvMkA-IWhxTQ==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Day 13: Kansas wheat harvest report

LINDSBORG - Saline County's Peterson Farm Bros are celebrating 10 years of making parody music videos about farming with a free concert Saturday evening.

The concert is scheduled for 7 p.m. Saturday at The Heights, located just outside Lindsborg at 2951 13th Avenue.

Ten years ago this month, the Peterson Farm Bros, who farm with their families near Assaria, filmed and posted their first music video parody, "I'm Farming and I Grow It." The song was a viral hit on YouTube and received more than five million views in over 200 countries in two weeks, according to information on the <a href="https://petersonfarmbrothers.com/">brothers' website</a>.

Since that time, the trio has made 18 music video parodies and many other videos that that combined have more that 150 million views on social media.

On Saturday, there will be chairs available for up to 500 people, however, those attending also are welcome to take their own lawn chairs. Bottled water and some other concessions will be for sale, but there will not be a meal during the event, according to information on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PetersonFarmBros">Peterson Farm Bros Facebook page</a>.

According to the event post on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PetersonFarmBros">Peterson Farm Bros Facebook page</a>, the schedule for Saturday is as follows.

●Optional tour of main farmstead at 5 p.m. The tour will leave from The Heights for an approximate 15 minute drive to the farm. "We normally charge for these tours but this will be a shortened version and will be a free will donation!" the Peterson Farm Bros noted.

●Meet and greet/merchandise sales with Peterson family from 6-7 p.m. at The Heights.

●Peterson Farm Bros will perform parodies and speak a little from 7-8:30 p.m.

●Meet and greet afterward for those who didn't do the one before and then finish the night with a few fireworks!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656540698669.png" alt="The Peterson Farm Bros have been making music video parodies for 10 years. On Saturday, they plan to celebrate with a free concert. Photo courtesy the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PetersonFarmBros">Peterson Farm Bros Facebook page</a>" />
 <figcaption>The Peterson Farm Bros have been making music video parodies for 10 years. On Saturday, they plan to celebrate with a free concert. Photo courtesy the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PetersonFarmBros">Peterson Farm Bros Facebook page</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTLINDSBORG - Saline County's Peterson Farm Bros are celebrating 10 years of making parody music videos about farming with a free concert Saturday evening.The concert is scheduled for 7 p.m. Saturday at The Heights, located just outside Lindsborg at 2951 13th Avenue.Ten years ago this month, the Peterson Farm Bros, who farm with their families near Assaria, filmed and posted their first music video parody, "I'm Farming and I Grow It." The song was a viral hit on YouTube and received more than five million views in over 200 countries in two weeks, according to information on the <a href="https://petersonfarmbrothers.com/">brothers' website</a>.Since that time, the trio has made 18 music video parodies and many other videos that that combined have more that 150 million views on social media.On Saturday, there will be chairs available for up to 500 people, however, those attending also are welcome to take their own lawn chairs. Bottled water and some other concessions will be for sale, but there will not be a meal during the event, according to information on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PetersonFarmBros">Peterson Farm Bros Facebook page</a>.According to the event post on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PetersonFarmBros">Peterson Farm Bros Facebook page</a>, the schedule for Saturday is as follows.●Optional tour of main farmstead at 5 p.m. The tour will leave from The Heights for an approximate 15 minute drive to the farm. "We normally charge for these tours but this will be a shortened version and will be a free will donation!" the Peterson Farm Bros noted.●Meet and greet/merchandise sales with Peterson family from 6-7 p.m. at The Heights.●Peterson Farm Bros will perform parodies and speak a little from 7-8:30 p.m.●Meet and greet afterward for those who didn't do the one before and then finish the night with a few fireworks!

Peterson Farm Bros to celebrate 10 years of music video parodies

Kellie Warren believes her policy experience and conservativism make her the ideal candidate to be the next attorney general in Kansas.

Warren, of Leawood, is one of three Republicans who have filed to run for attorney general in Kansas. Warren currently represents District 11 in Johnson County in the Kansas Senate. The other two Republicans are Kris Kobach and Tony Mattivi. Chris Mann is the lone Democrat who has filed for the position.

Warren was campaigning in Salina earlier this week and stopped by the Salina Post office to talk about her candidacy. 

"I tell you who I am. I'm honest about it and then I go be that in elected office. And I have the policy experience. I've had to vote on all policy as a state elected official for four years, whether it's energy, education, taxes, commerce, law and order. And Kansans then can look at the record of policy leading that I have," Warren said.

Should she be elected in November, Warren said she would probably do two things first: set up her team in the attorney general's office and create a new division in the office to look at federal overreach.

"I would probably create a new division, whether it's called 'federal overreach' or the 10th Amendment to make sure that we're looking at federalism essentially. That we don't have the government overreaching from Washington, D.C., what we're doing here in Kansas, and so either create a task force, maybe, or a new division," she said.

Warren said that Kansas Republicans need to make sure they select the right nominee to vie for the attorney general position in the November general election.

"We can't select a conservative Republican who doesn't win, and we can't select a person who tells us they're a conservative Republican but doesn't have a record, so how do we know?" Warren said. "With me, you have the record you can depend on of a battle-tested conservative who fights and wins. I win tough elections. I win policy battles that you care about. And I win in the courtroom as well. That's what we need in our next attorney general."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656537462040.jpeg" alt="Kellie Warren is a Republican candidate for attorney general in Kansas. Photo courtesy Warren's Kansas Senate webpage" />
 <figcaption>Kellie Warren is a Republican candidate for attorney general in Kansas. Photo courtesy Warren's Kansas Senate webpage</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostKellie Warren believes her policy experience and conservativism make her the ideal candidate to be the next attorney general in Kansas.Warren, of Leawood, is one of three Republicans who have filed to run for attorney general in Kansas. Warren currently represents District 11 in Johnson County in the Kansas Senate. The other two Republicans are Kris Kobach and Tony Mattivi. Chris Mann is the lone Democrat who has filed for the position.Warren was campaigning in Salina earlier this week and stopped by the Salina Post office to talk about her candidacy. "I tell you who I am. I'm honest about it and then I go be that in elected office. And I have the policy experience. I've had to vote on all policy as a state elected official for four years, whether it's energy, education, taxes, commerce, law and order. And Kansans then can look at the record of policy leading that I have," Warren said.Should she be elected in November, Warren said she would probably do two things first: set up her team in the attorney general's office and create a new division in the office to look at federal overreach."I would probably create a new division, whether it's called 'federal overreach' or the 10th Amendment to make sure that we're looking at federalism essentially. That we don't have the government overreaching from Washington, D.C., what we're doing here in Kansas, and so either create a task force, maybe, or a new division," she said.Warren said that Kansas Republicans need to make sure they select the right nominee to vie for the attorney general position in the November general election."We can't select a conservative Republican who doesn't win, and we can't select a person who tells us they're a conservative Republican but doesn't have a record, so how do we know?" Warren said. "With me, you have the record you can depend on of a battle-tested conservative who fights and wins. I win tough elections. I win policy battles that you care about. And I win in the courtroom as well. That's what we need in our next attorney general."

Warren cites policy experience, conservatism in run for Kansas AG

Do you work with a local non-profit? Does your organization need funding to make physical changes that adapt to the post-pandemic environment? 

Then join us Friday at 11 a.m.(via Zoom) for an informational webinar on Saline County's latest American Rescue Plan Grant program: Capital Improvements for Non-profits Grant (CING).

The CING program, funded by $250,000 of the county's&nbsp;Business &amp; Non-Profit Recovery&nbsp;allocation, will provide grants of up to $75,000 each for non-profits looking to fund capital projects that adapt the organization's ability to serve the public to the new realities created by COVID-19 and its associated economic and staffing impacts. 

You can find more information on our <a href="https://www.saline.org/ARPA">ARPA webpage</a> and get answers to your questions on the webinar.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Saline CountyDo you work with a local non-profit? Does your organization need funding to make physical changes that adapt to the post-pandemic environment? Then join us Friday at 11 a.m.(via Zoom) for an informational webinar on Saline County's latest American Rescue Plan Grant program: Capital Improvements for Non-profits Grant (CING). The CING program, funded by $250,000 of the county's&nbsp;Business &amp; Non-Profit Recovery&nbsp;allocation, will provide grants of up to $75,000 each for non-profits looking to fund capital projects that adapt the organization's ability to serve the public to the new realities created by COVID-19 and its associated economic and staffing impacts. You can find more information on our <a href="https://www.saline.org/ARPA">ARPA webpage</a> and get answers to your questions on the webinar.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Saline County plans ARPA grant webinar for non-profits

Attention Salina dinosaur lovers! Walk among the dinosaurs at Jurassic Quest in Tony’s Pizza Events Center Aug. 16-28.

The classic indoor adventure is back! Jurassic Quest and its skyscraping dinosaurs bring supersized family fun – only here can you get up close to life-size, realistic dinos, and even see them move and roar! Whether the dinos had skin that was scaly, feathers or fur, Jurassic Quest has spared no expense to bring the dinosaurs to life.

Walk through the Cretaceous, Jurassic and Triassic periods, and “Deep Dive” into the “Ancient Oceans” exhibit with ancient ocean dwellers including the largest apex predator that ever existed – a moving, life-size, 50-footlong Megalodon!

Fan-favorite, can’t-miss-moments include:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656531006345.jpeg" alt="You can get up close to life-size, realistic dinosaurs during the Jurassic Quest event at Tony's Pizza Events Center Aug. 16-28. Photos courtesy Tony's Pizza Events Center" />
 <figcaption>You can get up close to life-size, realistic dinosaurs during the Jurassic Quest event at Tony's Pizza Events Center Aug. 16-28. Photos courtesy Tony's Pizza Events Center</figcaption>
 </figure>Tony's Pizza Events CenterAttention Salina dinosaur lovers! Walk among the dinosaurs at Jurassic Quest in Tony’s Pizza Events Center Aug. 16-28.The classic indoor adventure is back! Jurassic Quest and its skyscraping dinosaurs bring supersized family fun – only here can you get up close to life-size, realistic dinos, and even see them move and roar! Whether the dinos had skin that was scaly, feathers or fur, Jurassic Quest has spared no expense to bring the dinosaurs to life.Walk through the Cretaceous, Jurassic and Triassic periods, and “Deep Dive” into the “Ancient Oceans” exhibit with ancient ocean dwellers including the largest apex predator that ever existed – a moving, life-size, 50-footlong Megalodon!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656531273816.jpeg" alt="The indoor dino adventure has a number of fan favorites." />
 <figcaption>The indoor dino adventure has a number of fan favorites.</figcaption>
 </figure>Fan-favorite, can’t-miss-moments include:• Walk among animatronic dinosaurs created with paleontologists to be true-to-detail (and size – watch the teeth)!• Climb aboard some of the largest rideable dinosaurs in North America!• Get your giggles going at our interactive Baby &amp; Walking Dinosaur Shows• Live your best dinosaur life with activities like fossil digs, fossil science exhibit, inflatables, a “Triceratots” soft play area, and more!• Meet the babies – hatched only at Jurassic Quest – Cammie the Camarasaurus, Tyson the T-Rex and Trixie the Triceratops. And you may even catch one of our star dino trainers: Safari Sarah, Dino Dustin, Captain Caleb, Prehistoric Nick or Park Ranger Marty!• Dig for fossils, and check out a real T-Rex teeth, a triceratops horn and life-size dino skull at our fossil exhibit.With exciting and unique experiences for the whole family, Jurassic Quest guests have a dino-mite time! Get your tickets before they go extinct at <a href="http://www.jurassicquest.com">www.jurassicquest.com</a>. Timed tickets are available and advance ticket purchase is strongly encouraged.

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