Space agency official says 22 satellites help boost U.S. agriculture production

By PAT MELGARES K-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;

MOUNDRIDGE – Of all the folks that might visit his central Kansas farm, Ray Flickner probably never figured a group from the nation’s space agency would be among them.&nbsp;

Yet, there they were: A small group of NASA scientists pulling up in SUVs to quiz Flickner about his farm just west of Moundridge.&nbsp;

In these parts, Flickner is pretty well known. He’s the fifth generation owner and operator of what is known as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/wrip/flickner/Flickner_Farm.html" target="_blank">Flickner Innovation Farm</a>, a partnership with Kansas State University to implement and test such leading agricultural technologies as moisture sensors, GPS guidance systems, drones and more.&nbsp;

But this is NASA, right? Space suits and rocket ships…&nbsp;

“Well, NASA does some great things in space,” said Brad Doorn, the program manager of the agency’s&nbsp;<a href="https://appliedsciences.nasa.gov/what-we-do/food-security-agriculture" target="_blank">agriculture and water resources program</a>, which is part of the earth science division, “but NASA also spends a lot of time providing information about Earth. And we have an agriculture program.”&nbsp;

Doorn was among five scientists who came to Flickner’s farm in late August to better understand the challenges farmers face related to agriculture and using water resources.&nbsp;

“We want to learn the decisions they’re facing, the technologies they’re working with…so that we can get better acclimated to those challenges,” Doorn said.&nbsp;

The program he leads focuses on “reaching down to end-users in agriculture and water” to understand how the information gathered daily from 22 satellites orbiting the Earth can be used for the benefit of farmers.&nbsp;

“We then reach back to NASA and explain the possibilities,” Doorn said. “It could be that it’s a future (space) mission, 10 years down the road. It could be something that we’ve already developed; we just need to say, ‘hey what’s been done over here, we need to bring over here.’”&nbsp;

“The Flickners and all agricultural producers and industry need to understand that they have an agricultural program in the nation’s space agency.”&nbsp;

Deann Presley, a soil management specialist with K-State Research and Extension, was among those who came to listen and share with the NASA scientists.&nbsp;

“I just think it’s fantastic that they’re willing to listen and have that conversation with farmers,” Presley said. “They (NASA) are the ones taking these measurements of Earth; they’re the one’s helping with drought prediction and looking at food security around the globe. But they want to take it farther; they want to learn what kinds of tools and products can be useful to farmers.”&nbsp;

Flickner said it’s important that farmers are active in the partnership.&nbsp;

“What I can offer them is I might be able to ‘ground-truth’ some of their findings,” he said. “They’ve got a lot of information that they’re getting from satellites, but is that information legitimate? Is what I’m seeing on the ground the same thing they’re seeing on the satellites?”&nbsp;

During the visit, Flickner’s grandsons – Owen, age 8, and Miles, age 5 – showed up wearing shirts that read “NASA” across the chest, eager to meet the group that had come to their grandpa’s farm. Owen proudly proclaimed he wanted to be a NASA engineer one day. The boys left with shiny ‘NASA’ pins and a backpack full of other gifts.&nbsp;

“NASA is super excited about engaging youth all the way up to college,” Doorn said. “We need agricultural expertise in the space agencies. One of our satellites coming up in the next decade…is a hyperspectral satellite in which many of the requirements came from the agricultural industry.”&nbsp;

“So,” he added, “we need those agronomy departments, biology departments (and others)…all to be thinking that there’s a capability available for assessing our vegetation and understanding our Earth. We want to get students engaged in that (type of work).”&nbsp;

Why Kansas? Why not, says NASA program leader&nbsp;

Doorn said Kansas has been important to the space agency for decades.

 “You probably didn’t even know it,” he said.&nbsp;

Doorn was among several NASA earth scientists who visited Nebraska and Kansas farms in late August to learn more about farmer’s needs – and how information gathered from outer space can help meet those needs.&nbsp;

He noted that testing in Kansas was important for helping to establish the U.S. Drought Monitor, and separately to address trade and inflation issues in the 1970s.&nbsp;

“We realized that we have satellites that can help assess those issues globally,” Doorn said. “A lot of the testing during (the 1970s) went on in Kansas and the Midwest to understand how to assess commodities.”&nbsp;

“So, it’s been a long relationship (between Kansas farmers and NASA scientists). We know times are changing, but that just means that we have to adjust to provide better information and develop better tools to assess agriculture.”

The visit by the team from NASA was organized by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment</a>, housed at Kansas State University.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661804596031.jpeg" alt="Moundridge-area farmer Ray Flickner (left) recently hosted a group of earth scientists from NASA, who were interested in learning how farmers use satellite data and other products on their farms. Photo courtesy KSRE News Service" />
 <figcaption>Moundridge-area farmer Ray Flickner (left) recently hosted a group of earth scientists from NASA, who were interested in learning how farmers use satellite data and other products on their farms. Photo courtesy KSRE News Service</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Space agency official says 22 satellites help boost U.S. agriculture production</h2>By PAT MELGARES K-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;MOUNDRIDGE – Of all the folks that might visit his central Kansas farm, Ray Flickner probably never figured a group from the nation’s space agency would be among them.&nbsp;Yet, there they were: A small group of NASA scientists pulling up in SUVs to quiz Flickner about his farm just west of Moundridge.&nbsp;In these parts, Flickner is pretty well known. He’s the fifth generation owner and operator of what is known as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/wrip/flickner/Flickner_Farm.html" target="_blank">Flickner Innovation Farm</a>, a partnership with Kansas State University to implement and test such leading agricultural technologies as moisture sensors, GPS guidance systems, drones and more.&nbsp;But this is NASA, right? Space suits and rocket ships…&nbsp;“Well, NASA does some great things in space,” said Brad Doorn, the program manager of the agency’s&nbsp;<a href="https://appliedsciences.nasa.gov/what-we-do/food-security-agriculture" target="_blank">agriculture and water resources program</a>, which is part of the earth science division, “but NASA also spends a lot of time providing information about Earth. And we have an agriculture program.”&nbsp;Doorn was among five scientists who came to Flickner’s farm in late August to better understand the challenges farmers face related to agriculture and using water resources.&nbsp;“We want to learn the decisions they’re facing, the technologies they’re working with…so that we can get better acclimated to those challenges,” Doorn said.&nbsp;The program he leads focuses on “reaching down to end-users in agriculture and water” to understand how the information gathered daily from 22 satellites orbiting the Earth can be used for the benefit of farmers.&nbsp;“We then reach back to NASA and explain the possibilities,” Doorn said. “It could be that it’s a future (space) mission, 10 years down the road. It could be something that we’ve already developed; we just need to say, ‘hey what’s been done over here, we need to bring over here.’”&nbsp;“The Flickners and all agricultural producers and industry need to understand that they have an agricultural program in the nation’s space agency.”&nbsp;Deann Presley, a soil management specialist with K-State Research and Extension, was among those who came to listen and share with the NASA scientists.&nbsp;“I just think it’s fantastic that they’re willing to listen and have that conversation with farmers,” Presley said. “They (NASA) are the ones taking these measurements of Earth; they’re the one’s helping with drought prediction and looking at food security around the globe. But they want to take it farther; they want to learn what kinds of tools and products can be useful to farmers.”&nbsp;Flickner said it’s important that farmers are active in the partnership.&nbsp;“What I can offer them is I might be able to ‘ground-truth’ some of their findings,” he said. “They’ve got a lot of information that they’re getting from satellites, but is that information legitimate? Is what I’m seeing on the ground the same thing they’re seeing on the satellites?”&nbsp;During the visit, Flickner’s grandsons – Owen, age 8, and Miles, age 5 – showed up wearing shirts that read “NASA” across the chest, eager to meet the group that had come to their grandpa’s farm. Owen proudly proclaimed he wanted to be a NASA engineer one day. The boys left with shiny ‘NASA’ pins and a backpack full of other gifts.&nbsp;“NASA is super excited about engaging youth all the way up to college,” Doorn said. “We need agricultural expertise in the space agencies. One of our satellites coming up in the next decade…is a hyperspectral satellite in which many of the requirements came from the agricultural industry.”&nbsp;“So,” he added, “we need those agronomy departments, biology departments (and others)…all to be thinking that there’s a capability available for assessing our vegetation and understanding our Earth. We want to get students engaged in that (type of work).”&nbsp;Why Kansas? Why not, says NASA program leader&nbsp;Doorn said Kansas has been important to the space agency for decades. “You probably didn’t even know it,” he said.&nbsp;Doorn was among several NASA earth scientists who visited Nebraska and Kansas farms in late August to learn more about farmer’s needs – and how information gathered from outer space can help meet those needs.&nbsp;He noted that testing in Kansas was important for helping to establish the U.S. Drought Monitor, and separately to address trade and inflation issues in the 1970s.&nbsp;“We realized that we have satellites that can help assess those issues globally,” Doorn said. “A lot of the testing during (the 1970s) went on in Kansas and the Midwest to understand how to assess commodities.”&nbsp;“So, it’s been a long relationship (between Kansas farmers and NASA scientists). We know times are changing, but that just means that we have to adjust to provide better information and develop better tools to assess agriculture.”The visit by the team from NASA was organized by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment</a>, housed at Kansas State University.&nbsp;

NASA scientists visit McPherson County farm on information seeking mission 

Today is Tuesday, Aug. 30, the 242nd day of 2022. There are 123 days left in the year.

On Aug. 30, 2021, the United States completed its withdrawal from Afghanistan, ending America's longest war with the Taliban back in power, as Air Force transport planes carried a remaining contingent of troops from Kabul airport; officials put the number of Americans remaining in Afghanistan at under 200 and said they would keep working to get those people out. After watching the last U.S. planes disappear into the sky over Afghanistan, Taliban fighters fired their guns into the air, celebrating victory after a 20-year insurgency.

In 1861, Union Gen. John C. Fremont instituted martial law in Missouri and declared slaves there to be free. (However, Fremont's emancipation order was countermanded by President Abraham Lincoln.)

In 1941, during World War II, German forces approaching Leningrad cut off the remaining rail line out of the city.

In 1945, U.S. Gen. Douglas MacArthur arrived in Japan to set up Allied occupation headquarters.

In 1963, the "Hot Line" communications link between Washington and Moscow went into operation.

In 1967, the Senate confirmed the appointment of Thurgood Marshall as the first Black justice on the U.S. Supreme Court.

In 1983, Guion S. Bluford Jr. became the first Black American astronaut to travel in space as he blasted off aboard the Challenger.

In 1991, Azerbaijan declared its independence, joining the stampede of republics seeking to secede from the Soviet Union.

In 1992, the television series "Northern Exposure" won six Emmy Awards, including best drama series, while "Murphy Brown" received three Emmys, including best comedy series.

In 1993, "The Late Show with David Letterman" premiered on CBS-TV.

In 1997, Americans received word of the car crash in Paris that claimed the lives of Princess Diana, her boyfriend, Dodi Fayed, and their driver, Henri Paul. (Because of the time difference, it was August 31 where the crash occurred.)

In 2005, a day after Hurricane Katrina hit, floods were covering 80 percent of New Orleans, looting continued to spread and rescuers in helicopters and boats picked up hundreds of stranded people.

In 2007, in a serious breach of nuclear security, a B-52 bomber armed with six nuclear warheads flew cross-country unnoticed; the Air Force later punished 70 people.

Ten years ago: Mitt Romney launched his fall campaign for the White House with a rousing, personal speech to the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Florida, proclaiming that America needs "jobs, lots of jobs." Earlier in the evening, actor-director Clint Eastwood offered an endorsement of Romney that entailed using an empty chair to represent President Barack Obama. The U.S. Justice Department announced it had ended its investigation into CIA interrogations of terrorist detainees without bringing criminal charges.

Five years ago: The former Hurricane Harvey completed a U-turn in the Gulf of Mexico and rolled ashore for the second time in six days, hitting southwestern Louisiana as a tropical storm with heavy rains and winds of 45 miles an hour. Floodwaters began to recede in Houston, where thousands of homes were flooded. A federal judge in Texas temporarily blocked most of a new state law that would have let police officers ask people during routine stops whether they were in the country legally; the law also threatened sheriffs with jail time for not cooperating with federal immigration authorities. (The crackdown on "sanctuary cities" took effect the following March after a federal appeals court upheld the law.)

One year ago: Rescuers in boats, helicopters and high-water trucks brought to safety hundreds of people in Louisiana who were trapped by the floodwaters of Hurricane Ida. The entire resort city of South Lake Tahoe, California, was ordered evacuated as a ferocious wildfire raced toward Lake Tahoe on the California-Nevada state line; the city of 22,000 was normally filled with tens of thousands of summer tourists. (Improved weather conditions would help keep the flames out of the city.)

Today's Birthdays: Actor Elizabeth Ashley is 83. Actor Ben Jones is 81. Actor John Kani is 80. Cartoonist R. Crumb is 79. Olympic gold medal skier Jean-Claude Killy is 79. Comedian Lewis Black is 74. Actor Timothy Bottoms is 71. Actor David Paymer is 68. Jazz musician Gerald Albright is 65. Actor Michael Chiklis is 59. Actor Michael Michele is 56. Country singer Sherrie Austin is 51. Rock singer-musician Lars Frederiksen (Rancid) is 51. Actor Cameron Diaz is 50. TV personality Lisa Ling is 49. Rock singer-musician Aaron Barrett (Reel Big Fish) is 48. Actor Raúl Castillo is 45. Actor Michael Gladis is 45. MLB pitcher Adam Wainwright is 41. Former tennis player Andy Roddick is 40. Singer Rachael Price (Lake Street Dive) is 37. Rock musician Ryan Ross is 36. Actor Johanna Braddy is 35. Actor Cameron Finley is 35.

<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 Tuesday, Aug. 30, the 242nd day of 2022. There are 123 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On Aug. 30, 2021, the United States completed its withdrawal from Afghanistan, ending America's longest war with the Taliban back in power, as Air Force transport planes carried a remaining contingent of troops from Kabul airport; officials put the number of Americans remaining in Afghanistan at under 200 and said they would keep working to get those people out. After watching the last U.S. planes disappear into the sky over Afghanistan, Taliban fighters fired their guns into the air, celebrating victory after a 20-year insurgency.On this date:In 1861, Union Gen. John C. Fremont instituted martial law in Missouri and declared slaves there to be free. (However, Fremont's emancipation order was countermanded by President Abraham Lincoln.)In 1941, during World War II, German forces approaching Leningrad cut off the remaining rail line out of the city.In 1945, U.S. Gen. Douglas MacArthur arrived in Japan to set up Allied occupation headquarters.In 1963, the "Hot Line" communications link between Washington and Moscow went into operation.In 1967, the Senate confirmed the appointment of Thurgood Marshall as the first Black justice on the U.S. Supreme Court.In 1983, Guion S. Bluford Jr. became the first Black American astronaut to travel in space as he blasted off aboard the Challenger.In 1991, Azerbaijan declared its independence, joining the stampede of republics seeking to secede from the Soviet Union.In 1992, the television series "Northern Exposure" won six Emmy Awards, including best drama series, while "Murphy Brown" received three Emmys, including best comedy series.In 1993, "The Late Show with David Letterman" premiered on CBS-TV.In 1997, Americans received word of the car crash in Paris that claimed the lives of Princess Diana, her boyfriend, Dodi Fayed, and their driver, Henri Paul. (Because of the time difference, it was August 31 where the crash occurred.)In 2005, a day after Hurricane Katrina hit, floods were covering 80 percent of New Orleans, looting continued to spread and rescuers in helicopters and boats picked up hundreds of stranded people.In 2007, in a serious breach of nuclear security, a B-52 bomber armed with six nuclear warheads flew cross-country unnoticed; the Air Force later punished 70 people.Ten years ago: Mitt Romney launched his fall campaign for the White House with a rousing, personal speech to the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Florida, proclaiming that America needs "jobs, lots of jobs." Earlier in the evening, actor-director Clint Eastwood offered an endorsement of Romney that entailed using an empty chair to represent President Barack Obama. The U.S. Justice Department announced it had ended its investigation into CIA interrogations of terrorist detainees without bringing criminal charges.Five years ago: The former Hurricane Harvey completed a U-turn in the Gulf of Mexico and rolled ashore for the second time in six days, hitting southwestern Louisiana as a tropical storm with heavy rains and winds of 45 miles an hour. Floodwaters began to recede in Houston, where thousands of homes were flooded. A federal judge in Texas temporarily blocked most of a new state law that would have let police officers ask people during routine stops whether they were in the country legally; the law also threatened sheriffs with jail time for not cooperating with federal immigration authorities. (The crackdown on "sanctuary cities" took effect the following March after a federal appeals court upheld the law.)One year ago: Rescuers in boats, helicopters and high-water trucks brought to safety hundreds of people in Louisiana who were trapped by the floodwaters of Hurricane Ida. The entire resort city of South Lake Tahoe, California, was ordered evacuated as a ferocious wildfire raced toward Lake Tahoe on the California-Nevada state line; the city of 22,000 was normally filled with tens of thousands of summer tourists. (Improved weather conditions would help keep the flames out of the city.)Today's Birthdays: Actor Elizabeth Ashley is 83. Actor Ben Jones is 81. Actor John Kani is 80. Cartoonist R. Crumb is 79. Olympic gold medal skier Jean-Claude Killy is 79. Comedian Lewis Black is 74. Actor Timothy Bottoms is 71. Actor David Paymer is 68. Jazz musician Gerald Albright is 65. Actor Michael Chiklis is 59. Actor Michael Michele is 56. Country singer Sherrie Austin is 51. Rock singer-musician Lars Frederiksen (Rancid) is 51. Actor Cameron Diaz is 50. TV personality Lisa Ling is 49. Rock singer-musician Aaron Barrett (Reel Big Fish) is 48. Actor Raúl Castillo is 45. Actor Michael Gladis is 45. MLB pitcher Adam Wainwright is 41. Former tennis player Andy Roddick is 40. Singer Rachael Price (Lake Street Dive) is 37. Rock musician Ryan Ross is 36. Actor Johanna Braddy is 35. Actor Cameron Finley is 35.

Today in History - August 30

TOPEKA –&nbsp;Thousands of vehicles will travel the Kansas roadways during the Labor Day weekend. Many families will head out on one last trip or getaway as the school year begins. 

Safe Kids Kansas, sponsored in part by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, State Farm and the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), want to encourage families to buckle up and drive safely to protect their most valuable asset, their families.

This year, through Sept. 11, a safety belt awareness campaign called “Bucks for Buckles” is being held in 45 cities across Kansas. Local volunteers distribute dollars bills to drivers who have all occupants buckled up securely in their vehicle. Those riding unrestrained will receive educational materials about the effectiveness of seat belts and child safety seats in saving lives and reducing injuries.

“No one can predict when they will be involved in a motor vehicle crash, yet almost all of us will be involved in an automobile crash in our lifetime. In 2020, 426 people lost their lives on Kansas roadways, and 52 percent were unbuckled,” said Cherie Sage, state director for Safe Kids Kansas. “The single most effective means of protecting the lives of you and your passengers is wearing seat belts and using appropriate child restraints every time you ride in the vehicle – even short distances.”

According to the 2021 KDOT Seat Belt Survey, 85 percent of Kansans surveyed were wearing their seat belts. This compares to the national average is 90 percent.&nbsp;Kansas ranked 38 in belt use in 2021 among 50 states and the District of Columbia. Seat belts save more than 15,000 lives yearly and are the best defense against drunk, aggressive and distracted drivers.

&nbsp;“Seat belts are the single most effective device you can use to save your life during a vehicle crash,” said Sage. “They also reduce your chances of having a serious injury by as much as 50 percent. It’s such a simple thing, so take your life into your own hands and buckle up.”

For more information about safety belts or child safety seat use, call (785) 296-1223 or visit <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MjQuNjI3MjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnNhZmVraWRza2Fuc2FzLm9yZy8_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.BADtzLgqLWR9e-4bB3TBHjCPboeesggPwHZRME97y_E/s/1305935158/br/143018201953-l" target="_blank">SafeKidsKansas.org</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MjQuNjI3MjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnNhZmVraWRzLm9yZy8_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.sLkBxnN3fkMT0yne59jKsWCXbAc3NncfpSZ4nIauTEE/s/1305935158/br/143018201953-l" target="_blank">SafeKids.org</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MjQuNjI3MjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmZhY2Vib29rLmNvbS9zYWZla2lkc2thbnNhcz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.9w-V3vWFIMszQvw-eIndFkSUno2zmGYUQpdLBIx4xuU/s/1305935158/br/143018201953-l" target="_blank">Facebook.com/safekidskansas</a>.

Safe Kids KansasTOPEKA –&nbsp;Thousands of vehicles will travel the Kansas roadways during the Labor Day weekend. Many families will head out on one last trip or getaway as the school year begins. Safe Kids Kansas, sponsored in part by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, State Farm and the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), want to encourage families to buckle up and drive safely to protect their most valuable asset, their families.This year, through Sept. 11, a safety belt awareness campaign called “Bucks for Buckles” is being held in 45 cities across Kansas. Local volunteers distribute dollars bills to drivers who have all occupants buckled up securely in their vehicle. Those riding unrestrained will receive educational materials about the effectiveness of seat belts and child safety seats in saving lives and reducing injuries.“No one can predict when they will be involved in a motor vehicle crash, yet almost all of us will be involved in an automobile crash in our lifetime. In 2020, 426 people lost their lives on Kansas roadways, and 52 percent were unbuckled,” said Cherie Sage, state director for Safe Kids Kansas. “The single most effective means of protecting the lives of you and your passengers is wearing seat belts and using appropriate child restraints every time you ride in the vehicle – even short distances.”According to the 2021 KDOT Seat Belt Survey, 85 percent of Kansans surveyed were wearing their seat belts. This compares to the national average is 90 percent.&nbsp;Kansas ranked 38 in belt use in 2021 among 50 states and the District of Columbia. Seat belts save more than 15,000 lives yearly and are the best defense against drunk, aggressive and distracted drivers.&nbsp;“Seat belts are the single most effective device you can use to save your life during a vehicle crash,” said Sage. “They also reduce your chances of having a serious injury by as much as 50 percent. It’s such a simple thing, so take your life into your own hands and buckle up.”For more information about safety belts or child safety seat use, call (785) 296-1223 or visit <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MjQuNjI3MjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnNhZmVraWRza2Fuc2FzLm9yZy8_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.BADtzLgqLWR9e-4bB3TBHjCPboeesggPwHZRME97y_E/s/1305935158/br/143018201953-l" target="_blank">SafeKidsKansas.org</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MjQuNjI3MjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnNhZmVraWRzLm9yZy8_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.sLkBxnN3fkMT0yne59jKsWCXbAc3NncfpSZ4nIauTEE/s/1305935158/br/143018201953-l" target="_blank">SafeKids.org</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MjQuNjI3MjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmZhY2Vib29rLmNvbS9zYWZla2lkc2thbnNhcz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.9w-V3vWFIMszQvw-eIndFkSUno2zmGYUQpdLBIx4xuU/s/1305935158/br/143018201953-l" target="_blank">Facebook.com/safekidskansas</a>.

Bucks being given to drivers who buckle up

By EIAN PRACHT Smoky View 4-H Club reporter

On Aug. 21, the Smoky View 4-H Club held an exchange meeting with the Friendly Fremont 4-H Club. The meeting took place at the Salemsborg Lutheran Church.&nbsp;

An exchange meeting is when the members from two different 4-H clubs meet together at one meeting. Typically, the members do activities together after the meeting.&nbsp;

During this exchange meeting, members from both clubs played a game of “Would You Rather?” and enjoyed ice cream afterward. “Would You Rather?” is a game in which players are given the choice between two different options. The players move to a certain spot based on what option they chose.&nbsp;

Smoky View members also helped serve at the church service at the Salemsborg Lutheran Church on Aug. 21. This was for the club's 4-H Sunday event.

The club will meet again on Sept. 25 to choose officers for the upcoming 4-H year, which starts in October. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661825788622.jpeg" alt="Smoky View 4-H Club members participate in 4-H Sunday on Aug. 21. Members helped serve food to church members after church services at Salemsborg Lutheran Church. Photo courtesy&nbsp;Smoky View 4-H Club" />
 <figcaption>Smoky View 4-H Club members participate in 4-H Sunday on Aug. 21. Members helped serve food to church members after church services at Salemsborg Lutheran Church. Photo courtesy&nbsp;Smoky View 4-H Club</figcaption>
 </figure>By EIAN PRACHT Smoky View 4-H Club reporterOn Aug. 21, the Smoky View 4-H Club held an exchange meeting with the Friendly Fremont 4-H Club. The meeting took place at the Salemsborg Lutheran Church.&nbsp;An exchange meeting is when the members from two different 4-H clubs meet together at one meeting. Typically, the members do activities together after the meeting.&nbsp;During this exchange meeting, members from both clubs played a game of “Would You Rather?” and enjoyed ice cream afterward. “Would You Rather?” is a game in which players are given the choice between two different options. The players move to a certain spot based on what option they chose.&nbsp;Smoky View members also helped serve at the church service at the Salemsborg Lutheran Church on Aug. 21. This was for the club's 4-H Sunday event.The club will meet again on Sept. 25 to choose officers for the upcoming 4-H year, which starts in October.

Smoky View 4-H Club holds exchange meeting

From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaKSPD">Salina Police Department Facebook page</a>:

Today we had the opportunity to swear-in two new police officers. Officer Mikayla Rix began her law enforcement journey as an Evidence Technician for the Salina Police Department on Nov 22, 2021. Officer Heather Surface also began her career as a Dispatcher for the Salina Police Department, in Jan 18, 2021. Both have shown success in their assignments, and both decided to take the step to becoming Commissioned Police Officers. The Officers will be attending the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center to become certified. We welcome Mikayla and Heather to the police officer ranks. Pictured left to right, Officer Rix, Training Sergeant Tim Brown, and Officer Surface.&nbsp;&nbsp;

From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaKSPD">Salina Police Department Facebook page</a>:Today we had the opportunity to swear-in two new police officers. Officer Mikayla Rix began her law enforcement journey as an Evidence Technician for the Salina Police Department on Nov 22, 2021. Officer Heather Surface also began her career as a Dispatcher for the Salina Police Department, in Jan 18, 2021. Both have shown success in their assignments, and both decided to take the step to becoming Commissioned Police Officers. The Officers will be attending the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center to become certified. We welcome Mikayla and Heather to the police officer ranks. Pictured left to right, Officer Rix, Training Sergeant Tim Brown, and Officer Surface.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661791484737.jpeg" alt="Officer Mikayla Rix, Training Sergeant Tim Brown, and Officer Heather Surface. Photos courtesy <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaKSPD">Salina Police Department Facebook page</a>" />
 <figcaption>Officer Mikayla Rix, Training Sergeant Tim Brown, and Officer Heather Surface. Photos courtesy <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaKSPD">Salina Police Department Facebook page</a></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661791592711.jpeg" alt="Rix is sworn in." />
 <figcaption>Rix is sworn in.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661791637644.jpeg" alt="Surface is sworn in." />
 <figcaption>Surface is sworn in.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Salina Police Department swears in two new officers

By PAT MELGARES K-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;

MANHATTAN – Cool-season grasses, like the Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue lawns common to many parts of Kansas, have had about enough of summer.&nbsp;

The state’s high temperatures and sporadic rainfall often cause cool-season varieties to become thin by summer’s end. September typically signals a good time to replenish those stands, said Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham.&nbsp;

“Start by mowing the grass short (1 to 1 ½ inches) and removing the clippings,” he said. “This will make it easier to achieve good seed-soil contact and increase the amount of light that will reach the young seedlings.”&nbsp;

Then, he says, check the lawn’s layer of thatch – an organic layer of dead and living shoots, stems and roots that develops between the zone of green vegetation and the soil surface.&nbsp;

“Normally, we’d want ¼ inch of thatch or less when overseeding,” Upham said. “If the thatch layer is ¾ inch or more, it is usually easier to use a sod cutter to remove it and start over with a new lawn. A power rake can be used to reduce a thatch layter that is less than ¾ inch, but more than ¼ inch.”&nbsp;

Once thatch is under control, Upham said homeowners can use a hand rake to roughen up soil in small areas. For larger areas, he suggests either a verticut machine or core aerator.&nbsp;

“A verticut machine has solid vertical blades that can be set to cut furrows in the soil,” he said. “A slit seeder is a verticut machine with a seed hopper added so the soil prep and seeding operation are combined.”&nbsp;

By contrast, a core aerator literally punches holes in the soil, depositing the cores on the surface of the ground.&nbsp;

“Each hole produces an excellent environment for seed germination and growth,” Upham said. “Make 3-4 passes with the core aerator to ensure enough holes for the seed.”&nbsp;

A core aerator also reduces the amount of water needed to germinate the seed. Aeration increases the water infiltration rate, decreases compaction and increases the amount of oxygen in the soil.&nbsp;

“Of the three methods (for large areas), I prefer the slit seeder for obtaining good seed to soil contact,” Upham said. “However, if watering is difficult, core aeration may be a better option.”&nbsp;

Upham noted that fertilizer should be applied to the lawn at rates suggested on the bag, regardless of which overseeding method is used.&nbsp;

Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;available to view online&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu">wupham@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;local K-State Research and Extension office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By PAT MELGARES K-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;MANHATTAN – Cool-season grasses, like the Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue lawns common to many parts of Kansas, have had about enough of summer.&nbsp;The state’s high temperatures and sporadic rainfall often cause cool-season varieties to become thin by summer’s end. September typically signals a good time to replenish those stands, said Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham.&nbsp;“Start by mowing the grass short (1 to 1 ½ inches) and removing the clippings,” he said. “This will make it easier to achieve good seed-soil contact and increase the amount of light that will reach the young seedlings.”&nbsp;Then, he says, check the lawn’s layer of thatch – an organic layer of dead and living shoots, stems and roots that develops between the zone of green vegetation and the soil surface.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/q-PTrB68cho" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>“Normally, we’d want ¼ inch of thatch or less when overseeding,” Upham said. “If the thatch layer is ¾ inch or more, it is usually easier to use a sod cutter to remove it and start over with a new lawn. A power rake can be used to reduce a thatch layter that is less than ¾ inch, but more than ¼ inch.”&nbsp;Preparing the soil&nbsp;Once thatch is under control, Upham said homeowners can use a hand rake to roughen up soil in small areas. For larger areas, he suggests either a verticut machine or core aerator.&nbsp;“A verticut machine has solid vertical blades that can be set to cut furrows in the soil,” he said. “A slit seeder is a verticut machine with a seed hopper added so the soil prep and seeding operation are combined.”&nbsp;By contrast, a core aerator literally punches holes in the soil, depositing the cores on the surface of the ground.&nbsp;“Each hole produces an excellent environment for seed germination and growth,” Upham said. “Make 3-4 passes with the core aerator to ensure enough holes for the seed.”&nbsp;A core aerator also reduces the amount of water needed to germinate the seed. Aeration increases the water infiltration rate, decreases compaction and increases the amount of oxygen in the soil.&nbsp;“Of the three methods (for large areas), I prefer the slit seeder for obtaining good seed to soil contact,” Upham said. “However, if watering is difficult, core aeration may be a better option.”&nbsp;Upham noted that fertilizer should be applied to the lawn at rates suggested on the bag, regardless of which overseeding method is used.&nbsp;Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;available to view online&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;&nbsp;Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu">wupham@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;local K-State Research and Extension office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎥Lawn stressed? September is time for relief

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Police are looking for the driver of a white SUV involved in a hit-and-run collision in west Salina early Saturday morning.

A man living in the 1700 block of Beach Street heard a crash and ran outside to find that his legally parked 2011 Chevrolet Malibu had been damaged along the driver's side and front, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. A northbound vehicle struck the southbound parked Malibu, leaving white paint transfer on the car.

The wreck occurred at approximately 12:30 a.m. Saturday.

Later on Saturday morning, a witness reported seeing a white 2013 Buick Enclave with damage consistent with the hit-and-run parked in the 1200 block of Apache Drive. The Enclave had its emergency lights flashing and an unopened can of Natural Light beer was in the center console, Forrester said.

Police have been unable to contact the owner of the SUV, he said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice are looking for the driver of a white SUV involved in a hit-and-run collision in west Salina early Saturday morning.A man living in the 1700 block of Beach Street heard a crash and ran outside to find that his legally parked 2011 Chevrolet Malibu had been damaged along the driver's side and front, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. A northbound vehicle struck the southbound parked Malibu, leaving white paint transfer on the car.The wreck occurred at approximately 12:30 a.m. Saturday.Later on Saturday morning, a witness reported seeing a white 2013 Buick Enclave with damage consistent with the hit-and-run parked in the 1200 block of Apache Drive. The Enclave had its emergency lights flashing and an unopened can of Natural Light beer was in the center console, Forrester said.Police have been unable to contact the owner of the SUV, he said.

SUV sought in hit-and-run located; driver still at large

Position Title:&nbsp;Service Technician / Quality Control Specialist

The Service Technician at Weddle and Sons will be tasked with assessing leaks, planning and performing many different small to medium-size roof repairs on steep/low slope roofs along with other company projects. Ability to perform repairs on the following materials: composition shingles; single ply membranes and built-up roof systems. This person will be able to work independently with little or no supervision; must also be able to work well with a team and know when to ask for outside input and support.

The Quality Control Specialist (QCS) at Weddle and Sons will develop and demonstrate skill in overseeing the day-to-day operations of a residential roofing crew and will show an advanced level of initiative in communication with supervisors, subordinates, and clients. A QCS must be committed to the core values of the company and must show the potential to coach others to higher levels of execution.

The starting hourly rate in the range of $16.00 - $20.00 based upon level of experience, paid biweekly, per 40 hours worked in a week with overtime paid at time-and-a-half.

The company provides 5 days of paid vacation and seven paid holiday days annually. Employees are eligible to join a company-sponsored health insurance plan after 30 days of employment. Employees are eligible for a company-sponsored 401k plan after 12 months of employment.

Weddle and Sons team members must support our Mission of “Building Better Lives” and embody our Core Values. We make hiring, retention, and advancement decisions largely on how well team members exemplify our core values in each aspect of their job. Our Core Values are:

1. Commitment to Clients: We will act in the best interest of those we serve

2. Responsibility: We will hold ourselves and each other accountable for excellent work

3. Integrity: We will exemplify fairness and honesty in our actions, decisions, and communications

4. Positivity: We choose to view and respond to life and work in a positive way

5. Never Settle: We are committed to constantly improving personally and professionally

1. Successfully solve client problems through effective issue identification, troubleshooting, and repairs

2. Demonstrate professionalism in all interactions with clients and team, communicating clearly and with a positive attitude, actively listening to customer concerns, and explaining our recommendations, options, and timing

3. Maintain current and accurate records of existing conditions, recommendations, work performed, time spent, and materials purchased for each project

4. Manage multiple tasks, prioritizing and carefully planning to maximize daily efficiency and minimize down time and unnecessary trips while quickly responding to urgent needs

5. Proactively seek service leads in the Salina area by networking and initiating with key service clients and potential clients

1. Keeping the client informed of the re-roof process

2. Keeping sub-contractors informed and scheduled ahead of time so that the client may plan appropriately.

4. Ensuring materials delivery is timely, accurate and correct

6. Informing the crew of safety requirements and promptly addressing violations

7. Managing the quality of installation by the sub-contractor

8. Maintain industry-best cleanliness of the job site, with specific attention to trash and nail clean up

9. Completing roof inspection form before leaving the job-site

11. Performing the installation of custom chimney flashing and skylight installation

13. Proper documentation of job notes on company platform

14. Regular communication with the Production Manager on ways to improve processes

1. Basic knowledge of roofing systems (and ability to learn quickly) with overall technical proficiency

2. Physical fitness sufficient to perform tasks that can be demanding at times

3. Problem-solving ability to troubleshoot roofing (and related) issues: ability to identify symptoms and systematically eliminate potential causes until solving the issue

a. Customer service skills (listening, positive communication, patience)

b. Competence in grammar and spelling preferred

c. Ability to send clear and mistake-free written communications

5. Ability to organize many competing and concurrent workstreams, while prioritizing and following through on commitments

Working Environment and Expectations:

Hours: A typical work week is expected to be not less than 40 hours. Given the seasonality of this business, we expect that there will be many weeks in middle of the year that require well over 40 hours of work. At the same time, there will be many weeks in the winter that may require somewhat less than 40 hours. At any time, and especially during the winter months, the service technician may be asked to assist with various company initiatives.

Travel: A service technician role is likely to involve occasional travel for company training, and projects. At times, business demand or weather events may require that the QCS spend time working in other company locations.

This is an “At Will” employment agreement. Nothing in the company’s policies, actions, or this document shall be construed to alter the “At Will” nature of Employee’s status with the company, and Employee understands that the company may terminate his/her employment at any time for any reason or for no reason, provided it is not terminated in violation of state or federal law. Likewise, the company recognizes the employee’s right to resign from employment for any reason.

Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weddleandsons.com/apply/">https://www.weddleandsons.com/apply/</a>&nbsp;and select the “Salina” branch and “Service Technician/Quality Control Specialist” job.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656094503581.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Position Title:&nbsp;Service Technician / Quality Control SpecialistLocation:&nbsp;Salina, KSReports to:&nbsp;Branch ManagerGeneral Description:The Service Technician at Weddle and Sons will be tasked with assessing leaks, planning and performing many different small to medium-size roof repairs on steep/low slope roofs along with other company projects. Ability to perform repairs on the following materials: composition shingles; single ply membranes and built-up roof systems. This person will be able to work independently with little or no supervision; must also be able to work well with a team and know when to ask for outside input and support.The Quality Control Specialist (QCS) at Weddle and Sons will develop and demonstrate skill in overseeing the day-to-day operations of a residential roofing crew and will show an advanced level of initiative in communication with supervisors, subordinates, and clients. A QCS must be committed to the core values of the company and must show the potential to coach others to higher levels of execution.Compensation:The starting hourly rate in the range of $16.00 - $20.00 based upon level of experience, paid biweekly, per 40 hours worked in a week with overtime paid at time-and-a-half.The company provides 5 days of paid vacation and seven paid holiday days annually. Employees are eligible to join a company-sponsored health insurance plan after 30 days of employment. Employees are eligible for a company-sponsored 401k plan after 12 months of employment.Mission and Core Values:Weddle and Sons team members must support our Mission of “Building Better Lives” and embody our Core Values. We make hiring, retention, and advancement decisions largely on how well team members exemplify our core values in each aspect of their job. Our Core Values are:1. Commitment to Clients: We will act in the best interest of those we serve2. Responsibility: We will hold ourselves and each other accountable for excellent work3. Integrity: We will exemplify fairness and honesty in our actions, decisions, and communications4. Positivity: We choose to view and respond to life and work in a positive way5. Never Settle: We are committed to constantly improving personally and professionallyResponsibilities:Service Technician1. Successfully solve client problems through effective issue identification, troubleshooting, and repairs2. Demonstrate professionalism in all interactions with clients and team, communicating clearly and with a positive attitude, actively listening to customer concerns, and explaining our recommendations, options, and timing3. Maintain current and accurate records of existing conditions, recommendations, work performed, time spent, and materials purchased for each project4. Manage multiple tasks, prioritizing and carefully planning to maximize daily efficiency and minimize down time and unnecessary trips while quickly responding to urgent needs5. Proactively seek service leads in the Salina area by networking and initiating with key service clients and potential clientsQuality Control Specialist1. Keeping the client informed of the re-roof process2. Keeping sub-contractors informed and scheduled ahead of time so that the client may plan appropriately.3. Being available: cell phone; email4. Ensuring materials delivery is timely, accurate and correct5. Abiding by OSHA laws6. Informing the crew of safety requirements and promptly addressing violations7. Managing the quality of installation by the sub-contractor8. Maintain industry-best cleanliness of the job site, with specific attention to trash and nail clean up9. Completing roof inspection form before leaving the job-site10. Removing left over inventory11. Performing the installation of custom chimney flashing and skylight installation12. Managing weather hazards13. Proper documentation of job notes on company platform14. Regular communication with the Production Manager on ways to improve processesSkills:1. Basic knowledge of roofing systems (and ability to learn quickly) with overall technical proficiency2. Physical fitness sufficient to perform tasks that can be demanding at times3. Problem-solving ability to troubleshoot roofing (and related) issues: ability to identify symptoms and systematically eliminate potential causes until solving the issue4. Written and verbal professionalisma. Customer service skills (listening, positive communication, patience)b. Competence in grammar and spelling preferredc. Ability to send clear and mistake-free written communicationsd. Good phone demeanor and tone5. Ability to organize many competing and concurrent workstreams, while prioritizing and following through on commitmentsWorking Environment and Expectations:Hours: A typical work week is expected to be not less than 40 hours. Given the seasonality of this business, we expect that there will be many weeks in middle of the year that require well over 40 hours of work. At the same time, there will be many weeks in the winter that may require somewhat less than 40 hours. At any time, and especially during the winter months, the service technician may be asked to assist with various company initiatives.Travel: A service technician role is likely to involve occasional travel for company training, and projects. At times, business demand or weather events may require that the QCS spend time working in other company locations.Employment Terms:This is an “At Will” employment agreement. Nothing in the company’s policies, actions, or this document shall be construed to alter the “At Will” nature of Employee’s status with the company, and Employee understands that the company may terminate his/her employment at any time for any reason or for no reason, provided it is not terminated in violation of state or federal law. Likewise, the company recognizes the employee’s right to resign from employment for any reason.To apply:Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weddleandsons.com/apply/">https://www.weddleandsons.com/apply/</a>&nbsp;and select the “Salina” branch and “Service Technician/Quality Control Specialist” job.

Scooter pursuit ends with arrest of Salina man

A few showers and storms with isolated heavy downpours will remain possible in southeast Kansas through late afternoon. However, we are looking for strong to possibly severe storms to develop across portions of central Kansas late this afternoon and early evening. If so, they will be capable of 50 to 65 mph wind gusts, nickel size hail and locally heavy rainfall which may result in minor lowland flooding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661807398409.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>National Weather ServiceA few showers and storms with isolated heavy downpours will remain possible in southeast Kansas through late afternoon. However, we are looking for strong to possibly severe storms to develop across portions of central Kansas late this afternoon and early evening. If so, they will be capable of 50 to 65 mph wind gusts, nickel size hail and locally heavy rainfall which may result in minor lowland flooding.

Strong, severe storms could pop up in our area Monday p.m.

Forecast heat indices for this afternoon will reach approximately 100 degrees for many in the area.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661775431271.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>National Weather ServiceForecast heat indices for this afternoon will reach approximately 100 degrees for many in the area.

NWS: Heat indices to hover near 100 degrees on Monday

China has now surpassed the United States in the number of most-cited papers according to an annual study of the most cited science research papers by Japan’s National Institute of Science and Technology Policy. This is the fourteenth major report in the last year documenting the decline of U.S. science research papers, STEM doctorates, international patents, and other indicators of former American science supremacy.&nbsp; And now we have lost first place in highly-cited research.

Many of these reports express concern over the low performance of U.S. K–12 students in math and science and their low numbers entering university to pursue STEM majors. They stress the need to increase the inflow of foreign students to ensure future U.S. advances in science research. Without foreign students, many U.S. universities would have to close their physics, engineering, chemistry and other graduate departments. But none have addressed our K–12 pipeline. In Singapore, China and some other countries, half of their university students pursue STEM majors. But less than 18 percent of U.S. college students pursue STEM majors as undergraduates. If the U.S. is to have a future in science, our K–12 educational systems governed by 47 state boards of education and four state education czars must dramatically increase the quantity and quality of science education in our public school curriculum.

1. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Kansas is one of only eleven states to require secondary science teachers to specialize in biology, chemistry, physics or earth sciences. The other 39 states certify or license weakly-trained one-size-fits-all science teachers barely qualified to teach middle school science. These states and D.C. must switch to this in-depth education in each science discipline, immediately.

2.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Training of these teachers must include at least 50 credit hours of genuine on-site science courses for biology teachers and 40 for chemistry, physics or earth science teachers. Our disastrous experiences with distance learning during the pandemic provided clear evidence that only face-to-face coursework with genuine hands-on reality-based labwork and fieldwork is acceptable for teachers and students.

3.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Mathematics underlies science understanding, including students not pursuing a science career. Algebra should begin to be taught in fourth grade, as it is in Asia. Math-heavy sciences such as physics can then be taught at the beginning of high school rather than wait until the end.

4.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;A detailed high school human anatomy and physiology course with full hands-on labs is essential for every student to understand their owner’s manual. This high school requirement in Germany has resulted in citizens who can self-refer themselves to a specialist and reduces per capita healthcare costs to less than half those costs in the U.S.&nbsp; Americans pay a heavy stupidity-tax. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

5.&nbsp; A minimum of 20 percent of the school day in middle and high school should be spent in science classes. This recommendation by the late John Moore of UC-Riverside has long been ignored.

6.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Elementary teachers must be trained in universities with a minimum of 24 credit hours of science that includes basic college introductory biology, chemistry, physics and earth science courses with labs, and also courses with hands-on science activities for elementary students. Surveys have shown that many scientists developed their interest in science when of elementary school age. Currently China’s high school graduates learn more science than today’s college-graduated U.S. elementary science teachers.

7. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Standardized state testing in science must end. Students are not standardized assembly-line products; they enter school different and should leave school different. Professional teachers design and administer their own evaluations based on their unique student populations.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

8.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Until a higher level of teacher training is achieved, a distinction must be made between fully-qualified and undertrained teachers, with a pay difference that promotes moving to higher competency.

There was a time in the 1800s when a grade school education was enough. In the early 1900s a high school education became “needed.” Life improves due to science and technology and the future will require citizens who understand even more science. India’s Nehru said “the future belongs to countries who make friends with science.” Without immediate and major changes in U.S. science education, this future is not ours.&nbsp;&nbsp;

John Richard Schrock has trained biology teachers for more than 30 years in Kansas. He also has lectured at 27 universities during 20 trips to China. He holds the distinction of “Faculty Emeritus” at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573490075841.jpeg" alt="John Richard Schrock" />
 <figcaption>John Richard Schrock</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN RICHARD SCHROCK China has now surpassed the United States in the number of most-cited papers according to an annual study of the most cited science research papers by Japan’s National Institute of Science and Technology Policy. This is the fourteenth major report in the last year documenting the decline of U.S. science research papers, STEM doctorates, international patents, and other indicators of former American science supremacy.&nbsp; And now we have lost first place in highly-cited research. Many of these reports express concern over the low performance of U.S. K–12 students in math and science and their low numbers entering university to pursue STEM majors. They stress the need to increase the inflow of foreign students to ensure future U.S. advances in science research. Without foreign students, many U.S. universities would have to close their physics, engineering, chemistry and other graduate departments. But none have addressed our K–12 pipeline. In Singapore, China and some other countries, half of their university students pursue STEM majors. But less than 18 percent of U.S. college students pursue STEM majors as undergraduates. If the U.S. is to have a future in science, our K–12 educational systems governed by 47 state boards of education and four state education czars must dramatically increase the quantity and quality of science education in our public school curriculum. 1. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Kansas is one of only eleven states to require secondary science teachers to specialize in biology, chemistry, physics or earth sciences. The other 39 states certify or license weakly-trained one-size-fits-all science teachers barely qualified to teach middle school science. These states and D.C. must switch to this in-depth education in each science discipline, immediately. 2.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Training of these teachers must include at least 50 credit hours of genuine on-site science courses for biology teachers and 40 for chemistry, physics or earth science teachers. Our disastrous experiences with distance learning during the pandemic provided clear evidence that only face-to-face coursework with genuine hands-on reality-based labwork and fieldwork is acceptable for teachers and students. 3.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Mathematics underlies science understanding, including students not pursuing a science career. Algebra should begin to be taught in fourth grade, as it is in Asia. Math-heavy sciences such as physics can then be taught at the beginning of high school rather than wait until the end. 4.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;A detailed high school human anatomy and physiology course with full hands-on labs is essential for every student to understand their owner’s manual. This high school requirement in Germany has resulted in citizens who can self-refer themselves to a specialist and reduces per capita healthcare costs to less than half those costs in the U.S.&nbsp; Americans pay a heavy stupidity-tax. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 5.&nbsp; A minimum of 20 percent of the school day in middle and high school should be spent in science classes. This recommendation by the late John Moore of UC-Riverside has long been ignored. 6.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Elementary teachers must be trained in universities with a minimum of 24 credit hours of science that includes basic college introductory biology, chemistry, physics and earth science courses with labs, and also courses with hands-on science activities for elementary students. Surveys have shown that many scientists developed their interest in science when of elementary school age. Currently China’s high school graduates learn more science than today’s college-graduated U.S. elementary science teachers. 7. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Standardized state testing in science must end. Students are not standardized assembly-line products; they enter school different and should leave school different. Professional teachers design and administer their own evaluations based on their unique student populations.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 8.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Until a higher level of teacher training is achieved, a distinction must be made between fully-qualified and undertrained teachers, with a pay difference that promotes moving to higher competency. There was a time in the 1800s when a grade school education was enough. In the early 1900s a high school education became “needed.” Life improves due to science and technology and the future will require citizens who understand even more science. India’s Nehru said “the future belongs to countries who make friends with science.” Without immediate and major changes in U.S. science education, this future is not ours.&nbsp;&nbsp;John Richard Schrock has trained biology teachers for more than 30 years in Kansas. He also has lectured at 27 universities during 20 trips to China. He holds the distinction of “Faculty Emeritus” at Emporia State University.

EDUCATION FRONTLINES: More science, now or never

ABILENE – A charitable association in Abilene recently got a shot in the arm.

The Wild Bill Hickok Rodeo made a donation of $5,548.06 to the Elsie Brooks Memorial Cancer Fund of Dickinson County.

The Jeffcoat Memorial Foundation matched $5,000 of the funds raised at the rodeo, according to foundation trustee Hank Royer.

The rodeo, held Aug. 3-6, has hosted a Tough Enough to Wear Pink night during the Friday performance for the past sixteen years, with donations exceeding $42,000 for the Brooks Memorial Fund.

The money is granted to citizens of Dickinson County who are undergoing cancer treatment. Insurance covers medical expenses, but there are other costs to the family, said Janice Deal, treasurer of the Brooks Cancer Fund.

“So many of the people we help go to Kansas City or Salina” for medical treatment, she said, which may involve lodging and fuel expenses. “Just a trip or two a month to Kansas City, and staying overnight, adds up in a short time.”

Their help goes beyond a one-time gift, Deal said. “We’ve helped people for several months, and that sure means a lot to them. This isn’t a one-time thing.”

The “pink” night fundraiser at the rodeo had its most successful year ever, raising over $5,500 through voluntary donations.

When the rodeo teamed up with the Memorial Fund, chairman Jerry Marsteller was looking for something close to home. 

“We wanted to keep our money local,” he said.

The Memorial Fund is run solely by volunteers; no one is paid for their work. Deal, a retired bank worker, enjoys keeping records for the organization.

When cancer patients get help from the Fund, they also get a listening ear in Deal. She cares for everyone they’ve helped. 

“It’s a trying time for them,” she said. “I try to listen to everyone who calls, and encourage them, let them know we care.”

Oftentimes fund recipients become&nbsp;friends.

“I’ve lived here all my life,” Deal said, referring to Dickinson County. “We know some of the families and people involved. And the ones we don’t know become friends, through helping them.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661738557848.jpeg" alt="The “big check” is presented to the Elsie Brooks Memorial Cancer Fund of Dickinson County during the Aug. 5 performance of the Wild Bill Hickok Rodeo. Standing, from left to right, are volunteers with the Elsie Brooks Fund: Linda Bletscher, Deanna Dunkel, and Cindy Medina. Seated is Linda Bankes, a rodeo fan. Handing the check to the ladies are rodeo chairman Jerry Marsteller, on the left, and Jeff Anderes. Photo by Connie Stillwagon courtesy Wild Bill Hickok Rodeo" />
 <figcaption>The “big check” is presented to the Elsie Brooks Memorial Cancer Fund of Dickinson County during the Aug. 5 performance of the Wild Bill Hickok Rodeo. Standing, from left to right, are volunteers with the Elsie Brooks Fund: Linda Bletscher, Deanna Dunkel, and Cindy Medina. Seated is Linda Bankes, a rodeo fan. Handing the check to the ladies are rodeo chairman Jerry Marsteller, on the left, and Jeff Anderes. Photo by Connie Stillwagon courtesy Wild Bill Hickok Rodeo</figcaption>
 </figure>Wild Bill Hickok RodeoABILENE – A charitable association in Abilene recently got a shot in the arm.The Wild Bill Hickok Rodeo made a donation of $5,548.06 to the Elsie Brooks Memorial Cancer Fund of Dickinson County.The Jeffcoat Memorial Foundation matched $5,000 of the funds raised at the rodeo, according to foundation trustee Hank Royer.The rodeo, held Aug. 3-6, has hosted a Tough Enough to Wear Pink night during the Friday performance for the past sixteen years, with donations exceeding $42,000 for the Brooks Memorial Fund.The money is granted to citizens of Dickinson County who are undergoing cancer treatment. Insurance covers medical expenses, but there are other costs to the family, said Janice Deal, treasurer of the Brooks Cancer Fund.“So many of the people we help go to Kansas City or Salina” for medical treatment, she said, which may involve lodging and fuel expenses. “Just a trip or two a month to Kansas City, and staying overnight, adds up in a short time.”Their help goes beyond a one-time gift, Deal said. “We’ve helped people for several months, and that sure means a lot to them. This isn’t a one-time thing.”The “pink” night fundraiser at the rodeo had its most successful year ever, raising over $5,500 through voluntary donations.When the rodeo teamed up with the Memorial Fund, chairman Jerry Marsteller was looking for something close to home. “We wanted to keep our money local,” he said.The Memorial Fund is run solely by volunteers; no one is paid for their work. Deal, a retired bank worker, enjoys keeping records for the organization.When cancer patients get help from the Fund, they also get a listening ear in Deal. She cares for everyone they’ve helped. “It’s a trying time for them,” she said. “I try to listen to everyone who calls, and encourage them, let them know we care.”Oftentimes fund recipients become&nbsp;friends.“I’ve lived here all my life,” Deal said, referring to Dickinson County. “We know some of the families and people involved. And the ones we don’t know become friends, through helping them.”

Abilene rodeo raises funds for Dickinson County cancer fund

Today is Monday, Aug. 29, the 241st day of 2022. There are 124 days left in the year.

On Aug. 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast near Buras, Louisiana, bringing floods that devastated New Orleans. More than 1,800 people in the region died.

In 1632, English philosopher John Locke was born in Somerset.

In 1814, during the War of 1812, Alexandria, Virginia, formally surrendered to British military forces, which occupied the city until September 3.

In 1862, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing began operations at the United States Treasury.

In 1944, 15,000 American troops of the 28th Infantry Division marched down the Champs Elysees in Paris as the French capital continued to celebrate its liberation from the Nazis.

In 1957, the Senate gave final congressional approval to a Civil Rights Act after South Carolina Sen. Strom Thurmond (then a Democrat) ended a filibuster that had lasted 24 hours.

In 1958, pop superstar Michael Jackson was born in Gary, Indiana.

In 1966, the Beatles concluded their fourth American tour with their last public concert, held at Candlestick Park in San Francisco.

In 2008, Republican presidential nominee John McCain picked Sarah Palin, a maverick conservative who had been governor of Alaska for less than two years, to be his running mate.

In 2009, funeral services were held in Boston for Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, who was eulogized by President Barack Obama; hours later, Kennedy's remains were buried at Arlington National Cemetery outside Washington.

In 2013, in a sweeping new policy statement, the Justice Department said it would not stand in the way of states that wanted to legalize, tax and regulate marijuana as long as there were effective controls to keep marijuana away from kids, the black market and federal property.

In 2018, Sen. John McCain was remembered as a "true American hero" at a crowded service at the North Phoenix Baptist Church after a motorcade carried McCain's body from the state Capitol. Kanye West apologized on a Chicago radio station (WGCI) for calling slavery a "choice."

In 2019, President Donald Trump said the United States planned to withdraw more than 5,000 troops from Afghanistan, and would then determine future drawdowns.

Ten years ago: Seizing the Republican National Convention spotlight in Tampa, Florida, vice presidential candidate Paul Ryan promised Mitt Romney would "not duck the tough issues" if he were to win the White House and that their party would move forcefully to solve the nation's economic woes. Hurricane Isaac sidestepped New Orleans, sending the worst of its howling wind and heavy rain into a cluster of rural fishing villages.

Five years ago: North Korea flew a ballistic missile designed to carry a nuclear payload over Japan, likely the country's longest-ever launch; President Donald Trump said "all options" were on the table for a U.S. response. Federal and local agencies said they had lifted more than 13,000 people out of the floodwaters from Hurricane Harvey in the Houston area and surrounding cities and counties. Comedian Kathy Griffin retracted her apology for posing with what appeared to be the severed head of President Donald Trump, saying the anger against her was overblown.

One year ago: Hurricane Ida blasted ashore in Louisiana as one of the most powerful storms ever to hit the U.S., knocking out power to all of New Orleans, blowing roofs off buildings and reversing the flow of the Mississippi River; more than 1 million homes and businesses in Louisiana and Mississippi, including all of New Orleans, were left without power. The U.S. military carried out a drone strike in the Afghan capital that the Pentagon initially said had killed an Islamic State fighter; an investigation found that 10 Afghan civilians, including seven children, were killed, and that the vehicle was not a valid threat. President Joe Biden stood witness with grieving families at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware as the remains of 13 U.S. troops killed in a suicide bombing in Afghanistan returned home. Ed Asner, the burly and prolific character actor best known as newsman Lou Grant on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" and then in a spinoff drama, died at 91.

Today's Birthdays: Movie director William Friedkin is 87. Actor Elliott Gould is 84. Actor Deborah Van Valkenburgh is 70. Former Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew is 67. Dancer-choreographer Mark Morris is 66. Country musician Dan Truman (Diamond Rio) is 66. Actor Rebecca DeMornay is 63. Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch is 55. Singer Me'Shell NdegeOcello is 54. Actor Carla Gugino is 51. Rock musician Kyle Cook (Matchbox Twenty) is 47. Actor John Hensley is 45. Actor Kate Simses is 43. Rapper A+ is 40. Actor Jennifer Landon is 39. Actor Jeffrey Licon is 37. Actor-singer Lea Michele is 36. Actor Charlotte Ritchie is 33. Actor Nicole Gale Anderson is 32. MLB pitcher Noah Syndergaard is 30. Rock singer Liam Payne (One Direction) is 29.

<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 Monday, Aug. 29, the 241st day of 2022. There are 124 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On Aug. 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast near Buras, Louisiana, bringing floods that devastated New Orleans. More than 1,800 people in the region died.On this date:In 1632, English philosopher John Locke was born in Somerset.In 1814, during the War of 1812, Alexandria, Virginia, formally surrendered to British military forces, which occupied the city until September 3.In 1862, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing began operations at the United States Treasury.In 1944, 15,000 American troops of the 28th Infantry Division marched down the Champs Elysees in Paris as the French capital continued to celebrate its liberation from the Nazis.In 1957, the Senate gave final congressional approval to a Civil Rights Act after South Carolina Sen. Strom Thurmond (then a Democrat) ended a filibuster that had lasted 24 hours.In 1958, pop superstar Michael Jackson was born in Gary, Indiana.In 1966, the Beatles concluded their fourth American tour with their last public concert, held at Candlestick Park in San Francisco.In 2008, Republican presidential nominee John McCain picked Sarah Palin, a maverick conservative who had been governor of Alaska for less than two years, to be his running mate.In 2009, funeral services were held in Boston for Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, who was eulogized by President Barack Obama; hours later, Kennedy's remains were buried at Arlington National Cemetery outside Washington.In 2013, in a sweeping new policy statement, the Justice Department said it would not stand in the way of states that wanted to legalize, tax and regulate marijuana as long as there were effective controls to keep marijuana away from kids, the black market and federal property.In 2018, Sen. John McCain was remembered as a "true American hero" at a crowded service at the North Phoenix Baptist Church after a motorcade carried McCain's body from the state Capitol. Kanye West apologized on a Chicago radio station (WGCI) for calling slavery a "choice."In 2019, President Donald Trump said the United States planned to withdraw more than 5,000 troops from Afghanistan, and would then determine future drawdowns.Ten years ago: Seizing the Republican National Convention spotlight in Tampa, Florida, vice presidential candidate Paul Ryan promised Mitt Romney would "not duck the tough issues" if he were to win the White House and that their party would move forcefully to solve the nation's economic woes. Hurricane Isaac sidestepped New Orleans, sending the worst of its howling wind and heavy rain into a cluster of rural fishing villages.Five years ago: North Korea flew a ballistic missile designed to carry a nuclear payload over Japan, likely the country's longest-ever launch; President Donald Trump said "all options" were on the table for a U.S. response. Federal and local agencies said they had lifted more than 13,000 people out of the floodwaters from Hurricane Harvey in the Houston area and surrounding cities and counties. Comedian Kathy Griffin retracted her apology for posing with what appeared to be the severed head of President Donald Trump, saying the anger against her was overblown.One year ago: Hurricane Ida blasted ashore in Louisiana as one of the most powerful storms ever to hit the U.S., knocking out power to all of New Orleans, blowing roofs off buildings and reversing the flow of the Mississippi River; more than 1 million homes and businesses in Louisiana and Mississippi, including all of New Orleans, were left without power. The U.S. military carried out a drone strike in the Afghan capital that the Pentagon initially said had killed an Islamic State fighter; an investigation found that 10 Afghan civilians, including seven children, were killed, and that the vehicle was not a valid threat. President Joe Biden stood witness with grieving families at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware as the remains of 13 U.S. troops killed in a suicide bombing in Afghanistan returned home. Ed Asner, the burly and prolific character actor best known as newsman Lou Grant on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" and then in a spinoff drama, died at 91.Today's Birthdays: Movie director William Friedkin is 87. Actor Elliott Gould is 84. Actor Deborah Van Valkenburgh is 70. Former Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew is 67. Dancer-choreographer Mark Morris is 66. Country musician Dan Truman (Diamond Rio) is 66. Actor Rebecca DeMornay is 63. Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch is 55. Singer Me'Shell NdegeOcello is 54. Actor Carla Gugino is 51. Rock musician Kyle Cook (Matchbox Twenty) is 47. Actor John Hensley is 45. Actor Kate Simses is 43. Rapper A+ is 40. Actor Jennifer Landon is 39. Actor Jeffrey Licon is 37. Actor-singer Lea Michele is 36. Actor Charlotte Ritchie is 33. Actor Nicole Gale Anderson is 32. MLB pitcher Noah Syndergaard is 30. Rock singer Liam Payne (One Direction) is 29.

Today in History - August 29

Scattered thunderstorms are expected to impact the region later today through tonight. A handful of strong to severe storms are possible before midnight, with the strongest activity capable of pea- to dime-size hail and 50 to 65 mph winds, along with pockets of heavy rainfall.

Showers and storms are expected to develop along a frontal boundary Monday afternoon/evening. Some storms may be strong to marginally severe with quarter-size hail and wind gusts up to 60 mph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661772578986.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>National Weather ServiceScattered thunderstorms are expected to impact the region later today through tonight. A handful of strong to severe storms are possible before midnight, with the strongest activity capable of pea- to dime-size hail and 50 to 65 mph winds, along with pockets of heavy rainfall.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661736200254.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>National Weather ServiceShowers and storms are expected to develop along a frontal boundary Monday afternoon/evening. Some storms may be strong to marginally severe with quarter-size hail and wind gusts up to 60 mph.