By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/skyler-rossi">SKYLER ROSSI</a> <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-04-28/backyard-chicken-rental-eggs">Harvest Public Media</a>

People are flocking to backyard chickens this year, in part due to the sky-high cost of eggs at the grocery store. Some first-timers have turned to chicken rentals to try out ownership for a few months.

Four chickens snack on a treat of dried mealworms, which Katie Hitt shakes into the run of their coop from a red plastic cup.

These chickens have lived in Hitt’s backyard in St. Louis since early April. She and her family have enjoyed the pale blue eggs the hens lay. And her three young kids are having fun with the birds.

“I mean, that's the first thing they're thinking of when they wake up in the morning, is like, how are the chickens and what are they doing?” Hitt said.

This is Hitt’s first time having chickens. She said she’s wanted them for a while, but she was nervous about doing something wrong. She doesn’t know anyone with a backyard flock, and there’s an overwhelming amount of advice online.

But then Hitt heard about chicken rentals.

Four Feathered Hens, a chicken rental business in St. Louis, would deliver hens and a coop right to her home. Its owners Emilie and Tom Schnitzer would provide expert advice. And, she would only need to commit to the chickens for a year.

“It was just like, boom, there we go,” Hitt said. “We didn't have chickens one day, and then we had a whole set up the next.”

Demand for backyard chickens is high this year. That’s in part because of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-01-21/eggs-expensive-bird-flu" target="_blank">expensive egg prices</a>&nbsp;and shortages at the grocery store brought on by bird flu, which led to fewer laying hens across the country. The price for a dozen large eggs&nbsp;<a href="https://data.bls.gov/timeseries/APU0000708111" target="_blank">climbed to a record $6.23</a>&nbsp;in March.

Buying or renting chickens is hardly a cost-saving measure, but those in the business say people are interested in a close-to-home egg supply.

“Our renters … they don't have to worry if the store is restricting how many eggs you can buy,” said Jenn Tompkins, the co-founder of national chicken rental business Rent The Chicken. “They don't have to worry even if the store has any eggs or not, because they just walk right outside and collect their fresh eggs.”

Rent The Chicken, which opened over a decade ago and is based in Pennsylvania, partners with farmers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rentthechicken.com/p/buy.html" target="_blank">in cities across the country</a>&nbsp;to rent backyard chickens. More people are interested in renting this year, Tompkins said.

“We've been so busy, we haven't even been able to compare numbers now versus last year,” Tompkins said. “When we looked in February, we were already about 20% ahead on this year versus last year this time.”

Hatcheries across the Midwest that supply backyard chickens also say they’re flooded with orders.

Murray McMurray Hatchery in Webster City, Iowa, sells about 3 million chicks a year to people across the U.S. Typically, the hatchery sells out about two or three weeks in advance, said President Tom Watkins. But this year, it’s sold out through October.

“That's 40 weeks of chickens that are pre-sold,” Watkins said. “We have literally sold them, you know, counted them before they hatched.”

It’s the same deal for Heartland Hatchery, which sells chicks at feed stores in Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas and Oklahoma. The hatchery had to buy a landline phone for the first time ever to keep up with the orders.

“Demand this year has been the highest I've ever seen since I've been in business for 29 years,” co-owner Alan Nieder said.

U.S. Postal Service shipping delays that have caused&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2024-09-03/usps-postal-service-slowdowns-baby-birds-dying-transit" target="_blank">chicks to die in transit</a>&nbsp;are also contributing to the high demand, Nieder said.

But even with the record-high prices for eggs, people should still expect to shell out more to keep chickens.

All the needed supplies — such as the coop, the feed and the fencing to protect the birds from predators — cost at least a few hundred dollars, said Katie Bell, an agriculture educator with the University of Illinois Extension.

“You could easily spend $500 before you even get the birds,” Bell said.

Packages from Rent The Chicken vary by location. But in several of its Midwestern cities, including Omaha, Detroit and Milwaukee, a six-month rental of two hens starts at about $500.

Four Feathered Hens in St. Louis, which opened at the beginning of this year, offers six or 12-month rentals. Its packages start at $95 per month for a yearlong commitment.

The most expensive package, at $190 a month, includes full care of the birds, co-founder Emilie Schnitzer said.

“We'll come out, we'll feed the chickens, we'll change out the bedding in the coop, make sure everything is going smoothly, just so it's pretty much the family only has to collect the eggs,” she said.

Hitt and her family are caring for the chickens themselves. She says her kids are picky eaters, but they get excited about the eggs from their chickens.

“They're already deciding whose chicken is whose,” Hitt said. “‘My chicken laid this one, I'm going to eat that one.’ It's really cute.”

This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media,</a>&nbsp;a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746020162379.png" alt="Katie Hitt and her family are renting these chickens for the next year from Four Feathered Hens in St. Louis. Her three young kids have named the birds Hei Hei, Feathers, Sweethearts and Lego Man. "Sometimes they change the names, but those are the names this week," Hitt said. Photo by Skyler Rossi/Harvest Public Media" />
 <figcaption>Katie Hitt and her family are renting these chickens for the next year from Four Feathered Hens in St. Louis. Her three young kids have named the birds Hei Hei, Feathers, Sweethearts and Lego Man. "Sometimes they change the names, but those are the names this week," Hitt said. Photo by Skyler Rossi/Harvest Public Media</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/skyler-rossi">SKYLER ROSSI</a> <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-04-28/backyard-chicken-rental-eggs">Harvest Public Media</a><h2>People are flocking to backyard chickens this year, in part due to the sky-high cost of eggs at the grocery store. Some first-timers have turned to chicken rentals to try out ownership for a few months.</h2>Four chickens snack on a treat of dried mealworms, which Katie Hitt shakes into the run of their coop from a red plastic cup.These chickens have lived in Hitt’s backyard in St. Louis since early April. She and her family have enjoyed the pale blue eggs the hens lay. And her three young kids are having fun with the birds.“I mean, that's the first thing they're thinking of when they wake up in the morning, is like, how are the chickens and what are they doing?” Hitt said.This is Hitt’s first time having chickens. She said she’s wanted them for a while, but she was nervous about doing something wrong. She doesn’t know anyone with a backyard flock, and there’s an overwhelming amount of advice online.But then Hitt heard about chicken rentals.Four Feathered Hens, a chicken rental business in St. Louis, would deliver hens and a coop right to her home. Its owners Emilie and Tom Schnitzer would provide expert advice. And, she would only need to commit to the chickens for a year.So, the chickens moved in.“It was just like, boom, there we go,” Hitt said. “We didn't have chickens one day, and then we had a whole set up the next.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746020327256.png" alt="Katie Hitt enjoys the eggs her rental chickens lay, but she and her family also like the experience of having the birds. "It's just relaxing to come out and just watch these little guys just peck around," she said. Photo by Skyler Rossi/Harvest Public Media" />
 <figcaption>Katie Hitt enjoys the eggs her rental chickens lay, but she and her family also like the experience of having the birds. "It's just relaxing to come out and just watch these little guys just peck around," she said. Photo by Skyler Rossi/Harvest Public Media</figcaption>
 </figure>Demand for backyard chickens is high this year. That’s in part because of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-01-21/eggs-expensive-bird-flu" target="_blank">expensive egg prices</a>&nbsp;and shortages at the grocery store brought on by bird flu, which led to fewer laying hens across the country. The price for a dozen large eggs&nbsp;<a href="https://data.bls.gov/timeseries/APU0000708111" target="_blank">climbed to a record $6.23</a>&nbsp;in March.Buying or renting chickens is hardly a cost-saving measure, but those in the business say people are interested in a close-to-home egg supply.“Our renters … they don't have to worry if the store is restricting how many eggs you can buy,” said Jenn Tompkins, the co-founder of national chicken rental business Rent The Chicken. “They don't have to worry even if the store has any eggs or not, because they just walk right outside and collect their fresh eggs.”Rent The Chicken, which opened over a decade ago and is based in Pennsylvania, partners with farmers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rentthechicken.com/p/buy.html" target="_blank">in cities across the country</a>&nbsp;to rent backyard chickens. More people are interested in renting this year, Tompkins said.“We've been so busy, we haven't even been able to compare numbers now versus last year,” Tompkins said. “When we looked in February, we were already about 20% ahead on this year versus last year this time.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746020423728.png" alt="Katie Hitt collected these pale blue eggs from her chickens. She said they've laid more than a dozen in the first week she's had them. Photo by Skyler Rossi/Harvest Public Media" />
 <figcaption>Katie Hitt collected these pale blue eggs from her chickens. She said they've laid more than a dozen in the first week she's had them. Photo by Skyler Rossi/Harvest Public Media</figcaption>
 </figure>Hatcheries across the Midwest that supply backyard chickens also say they’re flooded with orders.Murray McMurray Hatchery in Webster City, Iowa, sells about 3 million chicks a year to people across the U.S. Typically, the hatchery sells out about two or three weeks in advance, said President Tom Watkins. But this year, it’s sold out through October.“That's 40 weeks of chickens that are pre-sold,” Watkins said. “We have literally sold them, you know, counted them before they hatched.”It’s the same deal for Heartland Hatchery, which sells chicks at feed stores in Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas and Oklahoma. The hatchery had to buy a landline phone for the first time ever to keep up with the orders.“Demand this year has been the highest I've ever seen since I've been in business for 29 years,” co-owner Alan Nieder said.U.S. Postal Service shipping delays that have caused&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2024-09-03/usps-postal-service-slowdowns-baby-birds-dying-transit" target="_blank">chicks to die in transit</a>&nbsp;are also contributing to the high demand, Nieder said.<h2>Chickens aren’t cheap</h2>But even with the record-high prices for eggs, people should still expect to shell out more to keep chickens.All the needed supplies — such as the coop, the feed and the fencing to protect the birds from predators — cost at least a few hundred dollars, said Katie Bell, an agriculture educator with the University of Illinois Extension.“You could easily spend $500 before you even get the birds,” Bell said.And that goes for renting chickens, too.Packages from Rent The Chicken vary by location. But in several of its Midwestern cities, including Omaha, Detroit and Milwaukee, a six-month rental of two hens starts at about $500.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746020537310.png" alt="Emilie Schnitzer feeds dried mealworms to the chickens Katie Hitt is renting from her. She wants to help people get started with backyard hens through her chicken rental business. Photo by Skyler Rossi/Harvest Public Media" />
 <figcaption>Emilie Schnitzer feeds dried mealworms to the chickens Katie Hitt is renting from her. She wants to help people get started with backyard hens through her chicken rental business. Photo by Skyler Rossi/Harvest Public Media</figcaption>
 </figure>Four Feathered Hens in St. Louis, which opened at the beginning of this year, offers six or 12-month rentals. Its packages start at $95 per month for a yearlong commitment.The most expensive package, at $190 a month, includes full care of the birds, co-founder Emilie Schnitzer said.“We'll come out, we'll feed the chickens, we'll change out the bedding in the coop, make sure everything is going smoothly, just so it's pretty much the family only has to collect the eggs,” she said.Hitt and her family are caring for the chickens themselves. She says her kids are picky eaters, but they get excited about the eggs from their chickens.“They're already deciding whose chicken is whose,” Hitt said. “‘My chicken laid this one, I'm going to eat that one.’ It's really cute.”This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media,</a>&nbsp;a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.

Rent a chicken? More people take a crack at creating their own egg supply

BELOIT— The North Central Regional Planning Commission (NCRPC) Board of Directors announced that Debra Carlson Ohlde has been appointed as its new Executive Director, effective May 1.“

We are thrilled to have Deb in this top management position at NCRPC,” said Tom Claussen, Chair of the NCRPC Board. “She is extremely qualified and dedicated to North Central Kansas through her involvement in local community activities and her professional career. Deb truly loves this area of the state and will do what is best for the region and the organization.

”Deb is a long-time resident of Clyde, Kansas, with many years of experience at NCRPC. She initially joined the North Central Regional Planning Commission, which is based in Beloit, in 1994 and served in various roles, culminating in the position of Assistant Director, through 2016. 

After that, Deb stayed connected to community development while operating her consulting company, NEW Heartland Freelance. She also served as the Director of Grower Services for Kansas Corn before rejoining the NCRPC in 2022.

"After being with the organization for 22 years, I benefited from the years I spent taking on new types of work and challenges. The skills and experiences from my time away broadened my perspective and expanded my network. However, my heart lies in the community development field and North Central Kansas,” said Ohlde. 

“Helping communities solve problems and realize dreams has been a rewarding career path. I look forward to supporting our capable staff in this new role as we continue to serve the region.”Deb holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Kansas State University. She has expertise in strategic planning, small group facilitation, and proposal writing/project management within the public and non-profit sectors.

“We look forward to Deb’s leadership and vision as we continue to advance the organization,” said Claussen.For more information about the North Central Regional Planning Commission, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncrpc.org/">www.ncrpc.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746198627049.png" alt="Debra Carlson Ohlde courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Debra Carlson Ohlde courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedBELOIT— The North Central Regional Planning Commission (NCRPC) Board of Directors announced that Debra Carlson Ohlde has been appointed as its new Executive Director, effective May 1.“We are thrilled to have Deb in this top management position at NCRPC,” said Tom Claussen, Chair of the NCRPC Board. “She is extremely qualified and dedicated to North Central Kansas through her involvement in local community activities and her professional career. Deb truly loves this area of the state and will do what is best for the region and the organization.”Deb is a long-time resident of Clyde, Kansas, with many years of experience at NCRPC. She initially joined the North Central Regional Planning Commission, which is based in Beloit, in 1994 and served in various roles, culminating in the position of Assistant Director, through 2016. After that, Deb stayed connected to community development while operating her consulting company, NEW Heartland Freelance. She also served as the Director of Grower Services for Kansas Corn before rejoining the NCRPC in 2022."After being with the organization for 22 years, I benefited from the years I spent taking on new types of work and challenges. The skills and experiences from my time away broadened my perspective and expanded my network. However, my heart lies in the community development field and North Central Kansas,” said Ohlde. “Helping communities solve problems and realize dreams has been a rewarding career path. I look forward to supporting our capable staff in this new role as we continue to serve the region.”Deb holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Kansas State University. She has expertise in strategic planning, small group facilitation, and proposal writing/project management within the public and non-profit sectors.“We look forward to Deb’s leadership and vision as we continue to advance the organization,” said Claussen.For more information about the North Central Regional Planning Commission, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncrpc.org/">www.ncrpc.org</a>.

North Central Regional Planning Commission appoints Executive Director

The legal fees for the defense of the City of Salina in a federal lawsuit with the Cozy Inn has now gone above $633,000. Rosemary Mai with the Salina Group “The Granny Brigade” tells the Salina Post, they received an update from the City Manager's Office Friday that legal fees paid are now $633,335.77 . 

The case, which revolves around a dispute regarding artwork on the iconic 103-year-old establishment, has yet to go to trial but has involved multiple legal proceedings. 

The city’s legal team, Fairfield and Woods, P.C., a Denver-based law firm specializing in sign and mural-related cases, has been handling the matter as Pro Hac Vice counsel. 

The dispute stems from a mural commissioned by Cozy Inn owner Steve Howard in October 2023, which city officials flagged as a sign code violation. The controversy centers on whether the artwork is classified as a mural or a sign under Salina’s zoning regulations. 

The Granny Brigade first filed a Freedom of Information request with Interim Salina City Manager Jacob Wood in early March. If the case proceeds to trial, it will likely be in the fall.

The City of Salina has spent $538,791 in legal fees related to the ongoing case involving the Cozy Inn, according to Interim City Manager Jacob Wood. The case, which revolves around a dispute regarding artwork on the iconic 103-year-old establishment, has yet to go to trial but has involved multiple legal proceedings.

Wood stated that the city’s legal team, Fairfield and Woods, P.C., a Denver-based law firm specializing in sign and mural-related cases, has been handling the matter as Pro Hac Vice counsel.&nbsp;<a href="https://portal.laserfiche.com/Portal/PDF10/5d43cae9-029f-4733-a8a0-7ef4d85d91a4/531203">According to the firm’s engagement letter with the city,</a>&nbsp;attorneys Michael W. McConnell and Todd Messenger are representing Salina in the lawsuit. McConnell's billing rate is $400 per hour, while Messenger's rate is $485 per hour.&nbsp;Other attorneys or paralegals may also assist in the case at varying rates.

"There's certainly been lots of court actions," Wood said. "So most recently, we have filed a motion for summary judgment, and then they've [Cozy Inn Inc.] also filed a motion as well, and we're waiting for the court to hear that, and once the court makes a decision, they really have the option to grant all or part of that summary judgment, and depending on the result of that, then it could go to trial."

The firm's engagement letter, signed by former Salina City Manager Mike Schrage, states Fairfield and Woods, P.C. represents the City of Salina as an entity, not any individual city employees.

"In performing this work, our firm will be representing the City as an entity, rather than you or any other individual under the employment of the City," the letter reads. "This means our [law firm] duty is to the City and we must place its welfare and interests ahead of the interests of anyone employed by the City."

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/fc7ed532-a1ba-46b6-85c3-4ed867abb15a">Iconic restaurant, The Cozy Inn, sues Salina over right to paint a one-of-a-kind mural</a>

The dispute stems from a mural commissioned by Cozy Inn owner Steve Howard in October 2023, which city officials flagged as a sign code violation. The controversy centers on whether the artwork is classified as a mural or a sign under Salina’s zoning regulations.

Since the artwork progress has been halted, hundreds of patrons of the Cozy Inn have voiced their support of Howard, and their disapproval of the City's response.&nbsp;

Under Salina’s commercial sign regulations, businesses are allowed a specific amount of signage based on building frontage. In the C-4 commercial district, where the Cozy Inn is located, businesses are allotted three square feet of signage per linear foot of street frontage.

With a 20.8-foot frontage, the Cozy Inn is permitted approximately 63 square feet of signage. The restaurant already utilizes 52.88 square feet for existing signs, leaving just 10 square feet available. The new mural, estimated at 528 square feet, exceeds the allotted limit by nearly nine times.

The case, which is being heard in federal court, could either be resolved through the summary judgment ruling or proceed to trial in fall 2025, tentatively between October and November. Howard, with legal support from the Kansas Justice Institute, filed a lawsuit against the City of Salina in February 2024, arguing that the mural is a form of protected speech under the First Amendment.

The ongoing legal battle between the City of Salina and The Cozy Inn over its mural has sparked strong opinions in the community. How does this case make you feel? Do you believe the city's sign code is being fairly enforced, or do you see this as a fight for artistic expression?

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699905373563.jpeg" alt="Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By Randy Picking Salina PostThe legal fees for the defense of the City of Salina in a federal lawsuit with the Cozy Inn has now gone above $633,000. Rosemary Mai with the Salina Group “The Granny Brigade” tells the Salina Post, they received an update from the City Manager's Office Friday that legal fees paid are now $633,335.77 . The case, which revolves around a dispute regarding artwork on the iconic 103-year-old establishment, has yet to go to trial but has involved multiple legal proceedings. The city’s legal team, Fairfield and Woods, P.C., a Denver-based law firm specializing in sign and mural-related cases, has been handling the matter as Pro Hac Vice counsel. The dispute stems from a mural commissioned by Cozy Inn owner Steve Howard in October 2023, which city officials flagged as a sign code violation. The controversy centers on whether the artwork is classified as a mural or a sign under Salina’s zoning regulations. The Granny Brigade first filed a Freedom of Information request with Interim Salina City Manager Jacob Wood in early March. If the case proceeds to trial, it will likely be in the fall.------------------------The City of Salina has spent $538,791 in legal fees related to the ongoing case involving the Cozy Inn, according to Interim City Manager Jacob Wood. The case, which revolves around a dispute regarding artwork on the iconic 103-year-old establishment, has yet to go to trial but has involved multiple legal proceedings.Wood stated that the city’s legal team, Fairfield and Woods, P.C., a Denver-based law firm specializing in sign and mural-related cases, has been handling the matter as Pro Hac Vice counsel.&nbsp;<a href="https://portal.laserfiche.com/Portal/PDF10/5d43cae9-029f-4733-a8a0-7ef4d85d91a4/531203">According to the firm’s engagement letter with the city,</a>&nbsp;attorneys Michael W. McConnell and Todd Messenger are representing Salina in the lawsuit. McConnell's billing rate is $400 per hour, while Messenger's rate is $485 per hour.&nbsp;Other attorneys or paralegals may also assist in the case at varying rates."There's certainly been lots of court actions," Wood said. "So most recently, we have filed a motion for summary judgment, and then they've [Cozy Inn Inc.] also filed a motion as well, and we're waiting for the court to hear that, and once the court makes a decision, they really have the option to grant all or part of that summary judgment, and depending on the result of that, then it could go to trial."The firm's engagement letter, signed by former Salina City Manager Mike Schrage, states Fairfield and Woods, P.C. represents the City of Salina as an entity, not any individual city employees."In performing this work, our firm will be representing the City as an entity, rather than you or any other individual under the employment of the City," the letter reads. "This means our [law firm] duty is to the City and we must place its welfare and interests ahead of the interests of anyone employed by the City."READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/fc7ed532-a1ba-46b6-85c3-4ed867abb15a">Iconic restaurant, The Cozy Inn, sues Salina over right to paint a one-of-a-kind mural</a><h2>Legal background and mural dispute</h2>The dispute stems from a mural commissioned by Cozy Inn owner Steve Howard in October 2023, which city officials flagged as a sign code violation. The controversy centers on whether the artwork is classified as a mural or a sign under Salina’s zoning regulations.Since the artwork progress has been halted, hundreds of patrons of the Cozy Inn have voiced their support of Howard, and their disapproval of the City's response.&nbsp;Under Salina’s commercial sign regulations, businesses are allowed a specific amount of signage based on building frontage. In the C-4 commercial district, where the Cozy Inn is located, businesses are allotted three square feet of signage per linear foot of street frontage.With a 20.8-foot frontage, the Cozy Inn is permitted approximately 63 square feet of signage. The restaurant already utilizes 52.88 square feet for existing signs, leaving just 10 square feet available. The new mural, estimated at 528 square feet, exceeds the allotted limit by nearly nine times.<h2>Next steps in the case</h2>The case, which is being heard in federal court, could either be resolved through the summary judgment ruling or proceed to trial in fall 2025, tentatively between October and November. Howard, with legal support from the Kansas Justice Institute, filed a lawsuit against the City of Salina in February 2024, arguing that the mural is a form of protected speech under the First Amendment.The ongoing legal battle between the City of Salina and The Cozy Inn over its mural has sparked strong opinions in the community. How does this case make you feel? Do you believe the city's sign code is being fairly enforced, or do you see this as a fight for artistic expression?

Cost of Salina’s legal fees for Cozy Inn artwork case continues to climb

SALINE COUNTY —An assistant county attorney for Saline County is no longer in custody after his arrest for allegedly driving under the influence.

Just before just after 10a.m. Wednesday,&nbsp; police booked 64-year-old Vance E. White into the Saline County jail.&nbsp; He met the requirement for bond just before 2a.m. Thursday and is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

The County Attorney's office still lists White on their web site.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746215715182.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —An assistant county attorney for Saline County is no longer in custody after his arrest for allegedly driving under the influence.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746103644232.png" alt="Vance Edward White photo Saline County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Vance Edward White photo Saline County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before just after 10a.m. Wednesday,&nbsp; police booked 64-year-old Vance E. White into the Saline County jail.&nbsp; He met the requirement for bond just before 2a.m. Thursday and is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.The County Attorney's office still lists White on their web site.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Assistant county attorney no longer in jail after accused of DUI

SALINE COUNTY — Authorities are asking for the public's help to locate a stolen trailer and UTV.

According to a CrimeStoppers report,&nbsp; on Friday, February 16th, deputies responded to a report of a stolen trailer and UTV in the 7000 block of S Solomon Road, Rural Saline County. It was discovered that unknown suspects had stolen a red 2009 Titan 26-foot Gooseneck Livestock Trailer, which they then used to steal a 2011 Polaris Ranger 800 sometime between Friday, February 7, 2025, and the date of the report.

The total estimated loss is approximately $15,000.

SALINE COUNTY — Authorities are asking for the public's help to locate a stolen trailer and UTV.According to a CrimeStoppers report,&nbsp; on Friday, February 16th, deputies responded to a report of a stolen trailer and UTV in the 7000 block of S Solomon Road, Rural Saline County. It was discovered that unknown suspects had stolen a red 2009 Titan 26-foot Gooseneck Livestock Trailer, which they then used to steal a 2011 Polaris Ranger 800 sometime between Friday, February 7, 2025, and the date of the report.The total estimated loss is approximately $15,000.

Sheriff: Search continues for stolen trailer and UTV

DICKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement and school district officials provided an update to their investigation of a reported school threat at Chapman Middle School.

Just before 8p.m. Wednesday, a concerned parent of a Chapman Middle School student contacted police about a gun that was going to be brought to school, according to a media release from police. The parent told the on-duty Chapman officer that student told them that another student from the school was going to bring a gun to the school on May 2, and "start shooting everyone."

The officer immediately contacted USD 473 officials, others with the police department and the Dickinson County Sheriff's office to coordinate a quick response to the allegation.

A team of officers and deputies responded to the USD 473 District Office and met with school staff. At the same time,&nbsp; officers and deputies began several interviews of students and parents from the school district. After several hours of interviews, the investigation was suspended for the evening with no findings of a credible threat to the students or staff.

On Thursday, officers, deputies and USD 473 officials continued interviews with more students at the school. After several hours of interviews, it was concluded there is no credible threat to students or staff at Chapman Middle School.

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement and USD 473 staff are investigating an alleged threat at the middle school in Chapman.

On Wednesday, an officer with Chapman Police was notified of a potential harmful event that may occur at a later date at the Chapman Middle School, 624 Marshall Ave, Chapman, according to a social media report from the Chapman Police Department.

Chapman police immediately made contact with USD 473 staff and contacted the Dickinson Co. Sheriff’s Office and an investigation began immediately.

After the investigation, the officials feel that there is no credible threat. The investigation isn’t complete.  An official statement will be released on Friday.  Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

DICKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement and school district officials provided an update to their investigation of a reported school threat at Chapman Middle School.Just before 8p.m. Wednesday, a concerned parent of a Chapman Middle School student contacted police about a gun that was going to be brought to school, according to a media release from police. The parent told the on-duty Chapman officer that student told them that another student from the school was going to bring a gun to the school on May 2, and "start shooting everyone."The officer immediately contacted USD 473 officials, others with the police department and the Dickinson County Sheriff's office to coordinate a quick response to the allegation.A team of officers and deputies responded to the USD 473 District Office and met with school staff. At the same time,&nbsp; officers and deputies began several interviews of students and parents from the school district. After several hours of interviews, the investigation was suspended for the evening with no findings of a credible threat to the students or staff.On Thursday, officers, deputies and USD 473 officials continued interviews with more students at the school. After several hours of interviews, it was concluded there is no credible threat to students or staff at Chapman Middle School.-----------DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement and USD 473 staff are investigating an alleged threat at the middle school in Chapman.On Wednesday, an officer with Chapman Police was notified of a potential harmful event that may occur at a later date at the Chapman Middle School, 624 Marshall Ave, Chapman, according to a social media report from the Chapman Police Department.Chapman police immediately made contact with USD 473 staff and contacted the Dickinson Co. Sheriff’s Office and an investigation began immediately.After the investigation, the officials feel that there is no credible threat. The investigation isn’t complete. An official statement will be released on Friday. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

Police update investigation of reported school threat in Chapman

SALINA – OCCK, Inc. Transportation is partnering with Schwan's Company to provide free transportation to Schwan’s employees starting May 5, 2025. The initiative will offer free unlimited access to Salina CityGo fixed-route bus services for Schwan’s employees.Schwan’s team members simply need to show their employee badge when boarding a CityGo bus to receive their free rides.

“This collaboration with OCCK is an exciting step forward in creating a more connected and eco-conscious campus,”&nbsp;said Madeline Garrestson, Director of Human Resources at Schwan’s. “By removing transportation barriers, we’re supporting not only our employees’ daily lives, but also a healthier future for our community.”“We are excited to work alongside Schwan's and the City of Salina to break down transportation barriers,”&nbsp;said Trell Grinter, OCCK's Director of Transportation.&nbsp;

“This program shows what’s possible when entities come together to prioritize accessibility and sustainability.”

By expanding partnerships like this one, OCCK Transportation can strengthen and grow public transit services throughout Salina and North Central Kansas—both now and in the future.Salina CityGo, operated by OCCK, Inc. in partnership with the City of Salina and the Kansas Department of Transportation, covers over 80% of Salina with five color-coded routes and more than 200 bus stops. Each CityGo bus is wheelchair accessible and designed for efficiency and comfort.This new partnership not only supports the mobility needs of Schwan’s employees but also paves the way for long-term regional growth in public transportation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746136764758.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SALINA – OCCK, Inc. Transportation is partnering with Schwan's Company to provide free transportation to Schwan’s employees starting May 5, 2025. The initiative will offer free unlimited access to Salina CityGo fixed-route bus services for Schwan’s employees.Schwan’s team members simply need to show their employee badge when boarding a CityGo bus to receive their free rides.“This collaboration with OCCK is an exciting step forward in creating a more connected and eco-conscious campus,”&nbsp;said Madeline Garrestson, Director of Human Resources at Schwan’s. “By removing transportation barriers, we’re supporting not only our employees’ daily lives, but also a healthier future for our community.”“We are excited to work alongside Schwan's and the City of Salina to break down transportation barriers,”&nbsp;said Trell Grinter, OCCK's Director of Transportation.&nbsp;“This program shows what’s possible when entities come together to prioritize accessibility and sustainability.”By expanding partnerships like this one, OCCK Transportation can strengthen and grow public transit services throughout Salina and North Central Kansas—both now and in the future.Salina CityGo, operated by OCCK, Inc. in partnership with the City of Salina and the Kansas Department of Transportation, covers over 80% of Salina with five color-coded routes and more than 200 bus stops. Each CityGo bus is wheelchair accessible and designed for efficiency and comfort.This new partnership not only supports the mobility needs of Schwan’s employees but also paves the way for long-term regional growth in public transportation.

New partnership between OCCK, Inc. Transportation and Schwan’s

See a need, fill a need. That was the vision of the Kansas wheat farmer who first proposed donating surplus Kansas grain to people in need around the world. Today, U.S. food aid programs continue to serve this goal, using about one million metric tons (36.74 million bushels) of U.S. wheat annually.&nbsp;Kansas Wheat CEO Justin Gilpin joined a recent learning journey, organized by U.S. Wheat Associates (USW), to get an up-close look at food aid programs at work in East Africa and how this goodwill lays the foundation for future trade relationships.

“Food for Peace and Food for Progress are key programs and policies that were originally started by U.S. farmers and still supported by U.S. farmers,” Gilpin said. “We are in an increasingly important environment right now with dynamic changes in policy, seeing the critical work that food aid provides for those who are in need.”

“We are also introducing our product into a market. Africa creates a unique opportunity where we can provide humanitarian assistance to those who are in need through food aid with wheat, specifically being a high priority food, but then ultimately building goodwill and developing a commercial partner.”

The food aid learning journey took U.S. wheat industry leaders to Kenya and Lesotho to examine the transportation, distribution and impact of the two main U.S. food assistance programs — Food for Peace and Food for Progress.&nbsp;

Food for Peace Feeds Hungry People

The Food for Peace program supplies in-kind donations of food products, of which wheat makes up the largest proportion of emergency food assistance. The program started as a proposal by Kansas farmer Peter O’Brien in September 1953. In 1954, U.S. Senator Andy Schoeppel, a Kansas Senator, sponsored the precursor to today’s food aid programs as legislation, which was later signed by another Kansan, President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

The team saw the impact of Food for Peace donations firsthand at the Kakuma Refugee Camp, which hosts about 300,000 refugees from a variety of countries across East and Central Africa. The camp is managed by the World Food Programme (WFP), which aims to provide refugees with the standard 2,100 calories each person needs daily. Reaching that goal is not always possible.&nbsp;

Peter Laudeman, USW director of trade policy, explained that due to other global conflicts and distribution issues, the camp was only able to provide 65 percent of the caloric need in the provided ration. At the time of the learning journey, that ration was down to 40 percent with the expectation that it could move as low as 20 percent, making it imperative to get resources — like available U.S. HRW wheat — moving into these programs.&nbsp;

“This is not a well-rounded meal of fresh fruits and vegetables; it’s truly just the basic calories of what you need for the month to live,” Laudeman said. “When you think visually about it, you’re basically getting a two-cup scoop and that’s what you get for the month. What we saw more than anything is that there is a substantial need for more food in that camp. We know we have wheat available in the United States."

The Food for Peace program is administered by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which is set to be absorbed by the U.S. Department of State. The U.S. wheat industry is actively advocating for the Food for Peace program to be administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which already administers the sourcing and procurement of commodities like wheat for the Food for Peace program.&nbsp;

“Moving Food for Peace into USDA is going to be more efficient and more effective,” Laudeman said. “Not just for farmers in the United States to have more predictability, but also for groups like the WFP to have consistency, so we are working really hard to make sure that’s a possibility.”&nbsp;

Food for Progress Builds Economies&nbsp;

The second major food aid program in the United States is the Food for Progress program. Under this program, donations of wheat are monetized, which refers to the sale of in-kind donations of U.S. food commodities in recipient countries for local currency. Through monetization, the United States, through USDA and USAID, provides food commodities, like wheat, to a cooperating sponsor, a recipient government or a non-governmental organization. The recipient then can sell that commodity to local processors or traders and the proceeds can be used for developmental projects.&nbsp;

On the learning journey, Gilpin traveled with Laudeman to Maseru, Lesotho, to get a look at the STEPS Food for Progress project run by Venture 37. The project was funded by wheat monetization in Tanzania that is building capacity for the poultry sector within Lesotho.&nbsp;

“The project in Lesotho is actively working across the entire poultry value chain to enhance productivity, target strategic long-term investments and build economic opportunity in partnership with the United States,” Laudeman said. “As an added benefit, many elements of the STEPS project connect to commercial export opportunities for U.S. farmers.”

This project is an example of the vision of the Food for Progress program — how government-facilitated commercial scales can build up economies and establish relationships with future trading partners. The wheat industry actively advocates for this program, including recent support to ensure a spring food aid shipment of 286,000 metric tons (10.5 million bushels) of HRW wheat proceeded as planned.&nbsp;

That shipment came through the port of Mombasa in Kenya, which the team visited earlier in the learning journey, along with the mill that worked to bring in the shipment of wheat and move it through Kenya to the end destination of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. While no subsequent shipments are currently scheduled, this shipment represented the work needed to ensure food aid programs provide the right resources in the right places without market distortions.&nbsp;

“We worked to make sure that shipment went out to commercial partners in different markets that were planning on receiving that wheat,” Laudeman said. “We’re hopeful that once we have a better vision of how food aid will be structured in the long-term there will be more opportunities to share how shipments of wheat like this one work well in these programs, whether it is in Kenya or anywhere else.”&nbsp;

Overall, the USW learning journey underscored the enduring legacy and critical role of U.S. wheat in food aid programs. For Kansas wheat farmers, this work serves as a strong reminder of the power of feeding the world — both those in need today and those who will buy tomorrow.&nbsp;

“This USW learning journey gave us a great opportunity to learn about these important food aid programs that were originally started by farmers and still supported by farmers,” Gilpin said. “We were able to see tremendous growth through East Africa, including the role wheat plays in that market as humanitarian assistance and the market potential for future commercial activity.”

Learn more about the USW learning journey&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-YFFLUtXHVhXWy9B_djoMSzDAvECfOXQF-UWFTThNrM6KDfqGE7vbGLN-Mzt-EB0LQhL1HXyeCrtVRoOH4csKG-byEvmss89AuqHkH_zc0lHtQhhGCLEHGJH9ZzSNl0rkl1lsZb7DMh2zYqaE53eHNvzw0Q_Cl1PrS_08Ydp-zezRz9kqn56sFjAQ27tfetE0AXB1IGTNm5wP3ZJtFqfgYTjZSBbdZMkz2WQYnuWrZwiDJ1ZBt1OCZw0Ea3LL8ETBnFTH2C1gSQO5lkofPIaOA==&amp;c=-D3Lhsc_Onm7CTzRy82X_-_JUn6aAu2l0CgQ-DPPP3NpYXmNHZ704A==&amp;ch=moq893EM9Z8QrEemTeq6g8pCPRBq_mvNYUP5JArAR4ipF7ceOR5ZGg==">here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684379707210.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS WHEAT COMMISSIONSee a need, fill a need. That was the vision of the Kansas wheat farmer who first proposed donating surplus Kansas grain to people in need around the world. Today, U.S. food aid programs continue to serve this goal, using about one million metric tons (36.74 million bushels) of U.S. wheat annually.&nbsp;Kansas Wheat CEO Justin Gilpin joined a recent learning journey, organized by U.S. Wheat Associates (USW), to get an up-close look at food aid programs at work in East Africa and how this goodwill lays the foundation for future trade relationships.“Food for Peace and Food for Progress are key programs and policies that were originally started by U.S. farmers and still supported by U.S. farmers,” Gilpin said. “We are in an increasingly important environment right now with dynamic changes in policy, seeing the critical work that food aid provides for those who are in need.”“We are also introducing our product into a market. Africa creates a unique opportunity where we can provide humanitarian assistance to those who are in need through food aid with wheat, specifically being a high priority food, but then ultimately building goodwill and developing a commercial partner.”The food aid learning journey took U.S. wheat industry leaders to Kenya and Lesotho to examine the transportation, distribution and impact of the two main U.S. food assistance programs — Food for Peace and Food for Progress.&nbsp;Food for Peace Feeds Hungry PeopleThe Food for Peace program supplies in-kind donations of food products, of which wheat makes up the largest proportion of emergency food assistance. The program started as a proposal by Kansas farmer Peter O’Brien in September 1953. In 1954, U.S. Senator Andy Schoeppel, a Kansas Senator, sponsored the precursor to today’s food aid programs as legislation, which was later signed by another Kansan, President Dwight D. Eisenhower.The team saw the impact of Food for Peace donations firsthand at the Kakuma Refugee Camp, which hosts about 300,000 refugees from a variety of countries across East and Central Africa. The camp is managed by the World Food Programme (WFP), which aims to provide refugees with the standard 2,100 calories each person needs daily. Reaching that goal is not always possible.&nbsp;Peter Laudeman, USW director of trade policy, explained that due to other global conflicts and distribution issues, the camp was only able to provide 65 percent of the caloric need in the provided ration. At the time of the learning journey, that ration was down to 40 percent with the expectation that it could move as low as 20 percent, making it imperative to get resources — like available U.S. HRW wheat — moving into these programs.&nbsp;“This is not a well-rounded meal of fresh fruits and vegetables; it’s truly just the basic calories of what you need for the month to live,” Laudeman said. “When you think visually about it, you’re basically getting a two-cup scoop and that’s what you get for the month. What we saw more than anything is that there is a substantial need for more food in that camp. We know we have wheat available in the United States."The Food for Peace program is administered by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which is set to be absorbed by the U.S. Department of State. The U.S. wheat industry is actively advocating for the Food for Peace program to be administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which already administers the sourcing and procurement of commodities like wheat for the Food for Peace program.&nbsp;“Moving Food for Peace into USDA is going to be more efficient and more effective,” Laudeman said. “Not just for farmers in the United States to have more predictability, but also for groups like the WFP to have consistency, so we are working really hard to make sure that’s a possibility.”&nbsp;Food for Progress Builds Economies&nbsp;The second major food aid program in the United States is the Food for Progress program. Under this program, donations of wheat are monetized, which refers to the sale of in-kind donations of U.S. food commodities in recipient countries for local currency. Through monetization, the United States, through USDA and USAID, provides food commodities, like wheat, to a cooperating sponsor, a recipient government or a non-governmental organization. The recipient then can sell that commodity to local processors or traders and the proceeds can be used for developmental projects.&nbsp;On the learning journey, Gilpin traveled with Laudeman to Maseru, Lesotho, to get a look at the STEPS Food for Progress project run by Venture 37. The project was funded by wheat monetization in Tanzania that is building capacity for the poultry sector within Lesotho.&nbsp;“The project in Lesotho is actively working across the entire poultry value chain to enhance productivity, target strategic long-term investments and build economic opportunity in partnership with the United States,” Laudeman said. “As an added benefit, many elements of the STEPS project connect to commercial export opportunities for U.S. farmers.”This project is an example of the vision of the Food for Progress program — how government-facilitated commercial scales can build up economies and establish relationships with future trading partners. The wheat industry actively advocates for this program, including recent support to ensure a spring food aid shipment of 286,000 metric tons (10.5 million bushels) of HRW wheat proceeded as planned.&nbsp;That shipment came through the port of Mombasa in Kenya, which the team visited earlier in the learning journey, along with the mill that worked to bring in the shipment of wheat and move it through Kenya to the end destination of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. While no subsequent shipments are currently scheduled, this shipment represented the work needed to ensure food aid programs provide the right resources in the right places without market distortions.&nbsp;“We worked to make sure that shipment went out to commercial partners in different markets that were planning on receiving that wheat,” Laudeman said. “We’re hopeful that once we have a better vision of how food aid will be structured in the long-term there will be more opportunities to share how shipments of wheat like this one work well in these programs, whether it is in Kenya or anywhere else.”&nbsp;Food Aid Makes Good CentsOverall, the USW learning journey underscored the enduring legacy and critical role of U.S. wheat in food aid programs. For Kansas wheat farmers, this work serves as a strong reminder of the power of feeding the world — both those in need today and those who will buy tomorrow.&nbsp;“This USW learning journey gave us a great opportunity to learn about these important food aid programs that were originally started by farmers and still supported by farmers,” Gilpin said. “We were able to see tremendous growth through East Africa, including the role wheat plays in that market as humanitarian assistance and the market potential for future commercial activity.”Learn more about the USW learning journey&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-YFFLUtXHVhXWy9B_djoMSzDAvECfOXQF-UWFTThNrM6KDfqGE7vbGLN-Mzt-EB0LQhL1HXyeCrtVRoOH4csKG-byEvmss89AuqHkH_zc0lHtQhhGCLEHGJH9ZzSNl0rkl1lsZb7DMh2zYqaE53eHNvzw0Q_Cl1PrS_08Ydp-zezRz9kqn56sFjAQ27tfetE0AXB1IGTNm5wP3ZJtFqfgYTjZSBbdZMkz2WQYnuWrZwiDJ1ZBt1OCZw0Ea3LL8ETBnFTH2C1gSQO5lkofPIaOA==&amp;c=-D3Lhsc_Onm7CTzRy82X_-_JUn6aAu2l0CgQ-DPPP3NpYXmNHZ704A==&amp;ch=moq893EM9Z8QrEemTeq6g8pCPRBq_mvNYUP5JArAR4ipF7ceOR5ZGg==">here</a>.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Wheat Scoop: Building tomorrow’s markets- Wheat’s role in food aid programs in East Africa

Salina Tech graduation ceremony for the Class of 2025 is scheduled for Saturday, May 3rd at 2:00 PM at Tony’s Pizza Event Center. The live stream will be available on the college’s social media.

The commencement speaker is Renee Duxler, the President and CEO of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce.

A total of 188 students are candidates for graduation.

Other facts about students in the Class of 2025:

· Our graduates range in age from 17 to 46.

· 44 of them are first-generation college students.

· 2 of our graduates are earning their high school diplomas while simultaneously earning their associate degrees!

· 6 of our graduates are currently serving in the military or are military veterans.

· Salina Tech celebrates the first Pharmacy Technician graduate this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673715940863.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Tech graduation ceremony for the Class of 2025 is scheduled for Saturday, May 3rd at 2:00 PM at Tony’s Pizza Event Center. The live stream will be available on the college’s social media.The commencement speaker is Renee Duxler, the President and CEO of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce.A total of 188 students are candidates for graduation.Other facts about students in the Class of 2025:· Our graduates range in age from 17 to 46.· 44 of them are first-generation college students.· 2 of our graduates are earning their high school diplomas while simultaneously earning their associate degrees!· 6 of our graduates are currently serving in the military or are military veterans.· Salina Tech celebrates the first Pharmacy Technician graduate this year.

188 students to graduate Saturday from Salina Tech

KANSAS DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Governor Laura Kelly issued a state of disaster emergency proclamation Wednesday, April 30, to allow a waiver for hours of service for motor carriers in Kansas. Areas within Kansas and surrounding states are experiencing a fuel shortage causing long lines at fuel terminals thereby causing a disruption in supply delivery and a need for drivers to increase the number of hours of service to deliver product. &nbsp;Diesel has been the earliest affected, but gasoline could be affected as well.

“I am issuing this declaration to help alleviate the delay in getting the fuel to the end user,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This is not just a Kansas issue; our neighboring states are experiencing the same delays.”

“In support of Governor Kelly’s Disaster Emergency Proclamation, the Kansas Corporation Commission has issued an order granting a temporary 14-day waiver of federal regulations limiting hours of service for all intrastate and interstate motor carriers or drivers operating commercial motor vehicles who are providing direct assistance,” said Andrew French, Chairman of the Kansas Corporation Commission. “This action will assist in efforts to prevent a disruption in supply delivery related to the current fuel shortage by allowing drivers to increase their hours to deliver products.”

“The Kansas Highway Patrol acknowledges the Governor’s proclamation and will ensure enforcement efforts concerning commercial motor vehicles are consistent with these developments,” said Colonel Erik Smith, Superintendent of the Kansas Highway Patrol.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684348530032.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENTGovernor Laura Kelly issued a state of disaster emergency proclamation Wednesday, April 30, to allow a waiver for hours of service for motor carriers in Kansas. Areas within Kansas and surrounding states are experiencing a fuel shortage causing long lines at fuel terminals thereby causing a disruption in supply delivery and a need for drivers to increase the number of hours of service to deliver product. &nbsp;Diesel has been the earliest affected, but gasoline could be affected as well.“I am issuing this declaration to help alleviate the delay in getting the fuel to the end user,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This is not just a Kansas issue; our neighboring states are experiencing the same delays.”“In support of Governor Kelly’s Disaster Emergency Proclamation, the Kansas Corporation Commission has issued an order granting a temporary 14-day waiver of federal regulations limiting hours of service for all intrastate and interstate motor carriers or drivers operating commercial motor vehicles who are providing direct assistance,” said Andrew French, Chairman of the Kansas Corporation Commission. “This action will assist in efforts to prevent a disruption in supply delivery related to the current fuel shortage by allowing drivers to increase their hours to deliver products.”“The Kansas Highway Patrol acknowledges the Governor’s proclamation and will ensure enforcement efforts concerning commercial motor vehicles are consistent with these developments,” said Colonel Erik Smith, Superintendent of the Kansas Highway Patrol.

Gov. Kelly issues state of disaster emergency to allow for motor carrier waiver 

On Wednesday, an officer with Chapman Police was notified of a potential harmful event that may occur at a later date at the Chapman Middle School,  624 Marshall Ave, Chapman, according to a social media report from the Chapman Police Department.

Chapman police immediately made contact with USD 473 staff and contacted the Dickinson Co. Sheriff’s Office and an investigation began immediately. 

After the investigation, the officials feel that there is no credible threat. The investigation isn’t complete.&nbsp; An official statement will be released on Friday.&nbsp; Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement and USD 473 staff are investigating an alleged threat at the middle school in Chapman.On Wednesday, an officer with Chapman Police was notified of a potential harmful event that may occur at a later date at the Chapman Middle School, 624 Marshall Ave, Chapman, according to a social media report from the Chapman Police Department.Chapman police immediately made contact with USD 473 staff and contacted the Dickinson Co. Sheriff’s Office and an investigation began immediately. After the investigation, the officials feel that there is no credible threat. The investigation isn’t complete.&nbsp; An official statement will be released on Friday.&nbsp; Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

Police investigating alleged threat at Chapman middle school

GM recalls nearly 600,000 Cadillac, Chevrolet and GMC cars due to engine failure risks

ABILENE —Employees of Memorial Health System (MHS) in Abilene wore blue jeans at work for another “Jeans Day” fundraiser on Fridays throughout the month of April. 

Employees make a donation, of at least $5, and are allowed to wear blue jeans at work.&nbsp;A total donation of $820 is being used to purchase diapers for the Community Baby Shower event.&nbsp;The event, organized by the Dickinson County Health Department, invites all Dickinson County women who are pregnant and new moms (up to three months postpartum) to attend. 

Information is available on community resources, plus, there are gifts, raffles, prizes, and more. The Community Baby Shower will be held on May 8th, at Sterl Hall, in Abilene with registration from 4:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and the event beginning at 5:00 p.m.&nbsp;

The monthly Jeans Day fundraiser is organized by the MHS Employer of Choice (EOC) committee. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746105349767.png" alt="Tanya Rader, MHS employee; Harold Courtois, MHS employee; Jenny Stuck, MHS employee; Haley Jones, EOC committee member; and Matilda Calvin, MHS employee." />
 <figcaption>Tanya Rader, MHS employee; Harold Courtois, MHS employee; Jenny Stuck, MHS employee; Haley Jones, EOC committee member; and Matilda Calvin, MHS employee.</figcaption>
 </figure>ABILENE —Employees of Memorial Health System (MHS) in Abilene wore blue jeans at work for another “Jeans Day” fundraiser on Fridays throughout the month of April. Employees make a donation, of at least $5, and are allowed to wear blue jeans at work.&nbsp;A total donation of $820 is being used to purchase diapers for the Community Baby Shower event.&nbsp;The event, organized by the Dickinson County Health Department, invites all Dickinson County women who are pregnant and new moms (up to three months postpartum) to attend. Information is available on community resources, plus, there are gifts, raffles, prizes, and more. The Community Baby Shower will be held on May 8th, at Sterl Hall, in Abilene with registration from 4:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and the event beginning at 5:00 p.m.&nbsp;The monthly Jeans Day fundraiser is organized by the MHS Employer of Choice (EOC) committee.

MHS employees donate to purchase diapers for community baby shower event 

SALINA —On Wednesday, police responded to the 900 block of E. Ash, reference several windows on a vehicle shot out, according to Salina Police Captain James Feldman.

Officers made contact with a 47-year-old man at the residence who reported that the rear window, the back passenger window, the back passenger door, and front passenger door of his 2013 Ford Expedition had been damaged.

 Two windows on the residence had also been damaged. It was reported the suspect(s) were in a white passenger car which drove east on Ash. It was determined pellets had been used to damage the windows.

 Estimated total damage was valued at around $1000. The victim could not advise of any possible suspects.

SALINA —On Wednesday, police responded to the 900 block of E. Ash, reference several windows on a vehicle shot out, according to Salina Police Captain James Feldman.Officers made contact with a 47-year-old man at the residence who reported that the rear window, the back passenger window, the back passenger door, and front passenger door of his 2013 Ford Expedition had been damaged. Two windows on the residence had also been damaged. It was reported the suspect(s) were in a white passenger car which drove east on Ash. It was determined pellets had been used to damage the windows. Estimated total damage was valued at around $1000. The victim could not advise of any possible suspects.

Police: Pellet gun shot out windows on SUV

Salina, KS — In celebration of National Bike Month, Lakewood Discovery Center and Great Plains Manufacturing are teaming up to host Bike the Park—a free, family-friendly outdoor event on Saturday, May 17th from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Lakewood Park.

Get ready to explore the beauty of Lakewood Park on foot or by bike! Registration for all riders and hikers begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Lakewood Discovery Center. Whether you're biking the trails or taking a leisurely nature walk, there’s something for everyone.

During the event, Lakewood Discovery Center will host an Open House with refreshments and snacks available, providing a perfect pit stop for families and adventurers of all ages.

Bonus highlight: All registered participants will be entered into a drawing at 11:00 a.m. for a chance to win one of two bikes—just for showing up and enjoying the outdoors!

Don't miss this opportunity to connect with nature, get active, and celebrate the joy of biking with your community.

For more information, contact Lakewood Discovery Center at 785.826.7335 or on Facebook using @LakewoodDiscoveryCenter.

For more information about Bike Month activities across the state of Kansas and Kansas Mobility Management, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.ksrides.org/">www.ksrides.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746023126869.png" alt="Photo Lakewood Discovery Center" />
 <figcaption>Photo Lakewood Discovery Center</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina, KS — In celebration of National Bike Month, Lakewood Discovery Center and Great Plains Manufacturing are teaming up to host Bike the Park—a free, family-friendly outdoor event on Saturday, May 17th from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Lakewood Park.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Flakewooddiscoverycenter%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02KQyNxUqBPSaDT3pKXXsnfGubMwX5qWwidUx7Qx47mcG7gvWP5RctfpqCHHgWB6d9l&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="612" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>Get ready to explore the beauty of Lakewood Park on foot or by bike! Registration for all riders and hikers begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Lakewood Discovery Center. Whether you're biking the trails or taking a leisurely nature walk, there’s something for everyone.During the event, Lakewood Discovery Center will host an Open House with refreshments and snacks available, providing a perfect pit stop for families and adventurers of all ages.Bonus highlight: All registered participants will be entered into a drawing at 11:00 a.m. for a chance to win one of two bikes—just for showing up and enjoying the outdoors!Don't miss this opportunity to connect with nature, get active, and celebrate the joy of biking with your community.Event Details:<ul>
 <li>What: Bike the Park – Family-Friendly Biking &amp; Nature Event</li><li>When: Saturday, May 17, 2025 | 9:00–11:00 a.m.(Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.)</li><li>Where: Lakewood Discovery Center, 250 Lakewood Drive, Salina</li><li>Cost: FREE</li>
 </ul>For more information, contact Lakewood Discovery Center at 785.826.7335 or on Facebook using @LakewoodDiscoveryCenter.For more information about Bike Month activities across the state of Kansas and Kansas Mobility Management, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.ksrides.org/">www.ksrides.org</a>.

Celebrate National Bike Month with “Bike the Park” at Lakewood

JEWELL COUNTY— Law enforcement and animal rescue agencies assisted Jewell County Sheriff's Deputies seize multiple dogs at a residence in the rural community of Esbon April 25, according to a social media report from the sheriff's office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Authorities found the dogs in "unimaginable conditions," according to the Humane Society of Greater Kansas City. Dozes of other animals were already dead.&nbsp; The Humane Society of Greater Kansas City took in 40 of the dogs.&nbsp; The Hutchinson Animal Shelter also took dogs.&nbsp; Authorities have not reported possible charges in the case.

The sheriff's office encouraged the public to help.&nbsp; If you would like to make a donation to help support the shelter in getting food and proper equipment for the animals that they hold, please send to:

Hutchison Animal Shelter, 1501 S. Severance Stteet, Hutchison, KS 67501

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746065749869.png" alt="Photo Humane Society of Greater Kansas City" />
 <figcaption>Photo Humane Society of Greater Kansas City</figcaption>
 </figure>JEWELL COUNTY— Law enforcement and animal rescue agencies assisted Jewell County Sheriff's Deputies seize multiple dogs at a residence in the rural community of Esbon April 25, according to a social media report from the sheriff's office.&nbsp;&nbsp;Authorities found the dogs in "unimaginable conditions," according to the Humane Society of Greater Kansas City. Dozes of other animals were already dead.&nbsp; The Humane Society of Greater Kansas City took in 40 of the dogs.&nbsp; The Hutchinson Animal Shelter also took dogs.&nbsp; Authorities have not reported possible charges in the case.The sheriff's office encouraged the public to help.&nbsp; If you would like to make a donation to help support the shelter in getting food and proper equipment for the animals that they hold, please send to:Hutchison Animal Shelter, 1501 S. Severance Stteet, Hutchison, KS 67501<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FHSGKCOfficial%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02sgHgkRrWqcTnLAds33qmnwgQeQZj6H3rhXVvqiQ8414EHo6FPme68jSHDVSeNhMil&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="931" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Dogs rescued, more found dead in north-central Kansas

The City of Salina’s 17th annual E-waste Recycling Event will be held this Saturday, May 3rd from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at the Berkley Family Recreational Area, 841 Markley Rd. We are delighted to be joined by the Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank again this year to collect donations of non-perishable food items and personal hygiene goods.

E-waste refers to consumer electronic equipment that is obsolete and needs to be discarded properly. Examples include computers, televisions, cameras, gaming systems, phones, and microwaves.

Recycling electronic equipment not only preserves resources like aluminum, copper, gold, silver, and ferrous metals; it also diverts toxic materials like mercury, lead, and cadmium from the landfill. When electronic equipment is recycled, landfill space is also saved.

The event is open to Saline County residents, businesses, and organizations. Nearly any device with a cord or using a battery will be accepted. However, there are some exceptions. To see a detailed list of items that will and will not be accepted at the event, visit: www.salina-ks.gov/ewaste.

Most items will be recycled free of charge; however, there will be a fee collected for the following items:

· CRT TVs, CRT Computer Monitors, $40.00 Wood Console TVs, &amp; Projection TVs

· LCD, LED, Plasma TVs &amp; Computer Monitors $10.00

Participants should enter the event from Markley Road at the water tower and proceed to the drop-off location by following the traffic cones and signs. Participants are asked to remain in their vehicles while staff members collect Food Bank donations, and then the e-waste. Once drop off is complete, participants should exit onto Markley Road at Dean Evans Stadium. Due to the popularity of the event, expect delays in the morning hours.

The City of Salina’s 17th annual E-waste Recycling Event will be held this Saturday, May 3rd from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at the Berkley Family Recreational Area, 841 Markley Rd. We are delighted to be joined by the Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank again this year to collect donations of non-perishable food items and personal hygiene goods.E-waste refers to consumer electronic equipment that is obsolete and needs to be discarded properly. Examples include computers, televisions, cameras, gaming systems, phones, and microwaves.Recycling electronic equipment not only preserves resources like aluminum, copper, gold, silver, and ferrous metals; it also diverts toxic materials like mercury, lead, and cadmium from the landfill. When electronic equipment is recycled, landfill space is also saved.The event is open to Saline County residents, businesses, and organizations. Nearly any device with a cord or using a battery will be accepted. However, there are some exceptions. To see a detailed list of items that will and will not be accepted at the event, visit: www.salina-ks.gov/ewaste.Most items will be recycled free of charge; however, there will be a fee collected for the following items:· CRT TVs, CRT Computer Monitors, $40.00 Wood Console TVs, &amp; Projection TVs· LCD, LED, Plasma TVs &amp; Computer Monitors $10.00Participants should enter the event from Markley Road at the water tower and proceed to the drop-off location by following the traffic cones and signs. Participants are asked to remain in their vehicles while staff members collect Food Bank donations, and then the e-waste. Once drop off is complete, participants should exit onto Markley Road at Dean Evans Stadium. Due to the popularity of the event, expect delays in the morning hours.

City's E-wast recycling event is Saturday

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

TOPEKA — Fear that federal funding cuts will mean loved ones won’t receive nutritional food and safety checks through Meals on Wheels is driving an increase of calls to agencies across Kansas.

“It’s scary,” said Laurel Alkire, executive director of Senior Services Inc. of Wichita. “I’ve had a lot of families call me about their mom or dad. We’re trying to not overreact, but it’s very concerning.”

The fear is generated by potential federal funding cuts from multiple sources that could affect Meals on Wheels budgets nationwide, said Josh Protas, an advocate at the organization’s national office, Meals on Wheels America.&nbsp;

“I think there’s a lot of confusion and a lot of anxiety that we’re hearing from across our network that is in response to multiple threats that are happening all at once,” he said.

Programs facing federal cuts include those funded by Health and Human Services, which has faced “massive” cuts of budget and personnel, Protas said. A leaked budget document signaled intentions to cut and split apart some programs that serve older adults.&nbsp;

Also of concern is the ongoing budget reconciliation process, which among other things may include elimination of social services block grants and cuts to the Older Americans Act, he said.&nbsp;

“Social Services Block Grants are a critical source of funding for many Meals on Wheels programs to help fill in the gaps where there are shortfalls in other funding sources,” Protas said.&nbsp;

Proposed cuts to Medicaid also could harm Meals on Wheels budgets because those funds sometimes offer reimbursements, he said.&nbsp;

Isys Schmitt, director of nutrition at the Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging, said her agency serves 18 counties at 28 sites in northwest Kansas.&nbsp;

“I do hear the concerns from participants,” she said. “I think it’s more they hear these things on the news, and they automatically think it’s going to affect our program very badly.”

Her agency receives about 25% of its funding from federal sources, 25% from the state, and the rest in contributions, Schmitt said.&nbsp;

Protas said Meals on Wheels programs are all funded through different mechanisms, so it’s difficult to tell how cuts might affect each program. Some get almost no federal funding, while others may receive 80% of funds from federal sources.

Julie Govert Walter, executive director of the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging Inc., is assessing potential cuts and trying to plan for how her agency might be affected, including the Meals on Wheels program it runs.&nbsp;

“We’re right now telling people don’t panic,” she said. “We don’t want our elder Kansans to stress out over the uncertainty. At the same time, we want lawmakers in Washington to understand that the Older Americans Act programs are making significant differences in the lives of older Kansans and their caregivers and their families.”

About half of Walter’s agency budget is derived from the Older Americans Act, with about 34% of the allocation and related in-kind match donations supporting the meals program in 18 northeast Kansas counties.

Alkire said that Wichita’s Senior Services has other programs besides Meals on Wheels, including a senior employment program and four senior centers for active seniors 55 and older.&nbsp;

“Meals on Wheels is our bread and butter,” she said. “We’ve got some reserves, but that wouldn’t last long.”

Walter said she believes the programs her organization runs are aligned with Trump administration policies because they’re frugal, cost-conscious and have significant volunteer support. In addition, Meals on Wheels helps seniors live independently, which often keeps them out of more costly nursing home facilities.&nbsp;

Protas said the national organization is walking the line of not scaring seniors about funding cuts but making sure people are reaching out to make their voices heard.

“Many of these things that we’re worried about, there haven’t been final decisions made yet,” he said. “So we’re using this time to advocate and to just tell the story about Meals on Wheels. We’re advising our Meals on Wheels member programs to do some contingency planning so that in the event that there are delays or disruptions in funding, they’re not caught off guard. We’re not doing that in a way that instills panic, but we recognize that the threats are serious.”

Walter said planning right now is tough because of political uncertainties, but even more so because she doesn’t have information from the feds that she needs. Usually by this time of year, she knows what her budget is for the upcoming year. She doesn’t have those numbers yet to plan for fiscal year 2026, which will start in October.&nbsp;

In mid-March, Congress funded the Older Americans Act and other programs through September 2025 with a continuing resolution. But no one knows what will happen next, Walter said. When she considers potential cuts of up to 30% of her agency’s funding, she’s not sure how to think about what actions to take.&nbsp;

Options could include cutting the number of days they serve meals from five to two or three, but that would involve potential workforce cuts, she said.&nbsp;

“It’s a puzzle,” she said. “We’re doing what we can to communicate with members of Congress about our situation, and I will say I think most members of the Kansas congressional delegation understand the importance of the OAA.”

Walter said one of the biggest challenges is communicating with people about the importance of Meals on Wheels and other programs for aging Kansans.&nbsp;

“We all know what it’s like to be a kid, to be an adolescent, to be a young adult, and to be in middle age,” she said. “But honestly, most people don’t get what it’s like to really deal with challenges and the anxieties of being older, 75 and 80 plus, until we’re there. It’s so dependent on health and community and social relationships.”

“The stress and uncertainty is real, and it has real effects on people’s minds and hearts and spirits,” Walter said. “It’s hard to quantify, but you know it’s real. Drama is not good for older people.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746017660216.png" alt="The Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging in Hays gets 25% of its budget from federal funding sources, which are facing possible cuts. (Cade Rothenberger for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging in Hays gets 25% of its budget from federal funding sources, which are facing possible cuts. (Cade Rothenberger for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Fear that federal funding cuts will mean loved ones won’t receive nutritional food and safety checks through Meals on Wheels is driving an increase of calls to agencies across Kansas.“It’s scary,” said Laurel Alkire, executive director of Senior Services Inc. of Wichita. “I’ve had a lot of families call me about their mom or dad. We’re trying to not overreact, but it’s very concerning.”The fear is generated by potential federal funding cuts from multiple sources that could affect Meals on Wheels budgets nationwide, said Josh Protas, an advocate at the organization’s national office, Meals on Wheels America.&nbsp;“I think there’s a lot of confusion and a lot of anxiety that we’re hearing from across our network that is in response to multiple threats that are happening all at once,” he said.Programs facing federal cuts include those funded by Health and Human Services, which has faced “massive” cuts of budget and personnel, Protas said. A leaked budget document signaled intentions to cut and split apart some programs that serve older adults.&nbsp;Also of concern is the ongoing budget reconciliation process, which among other things may include elimination of social services block grants and cuts to the Older Americans Act, he said.&nbsp;“Social Services Block Grants are a critical source of funding for many Meals on Wheels programs to help fill in the gaps where there are shortfalls in other funding sources,” Protas said.&nbsp;Proposed cuts to Medicaid also could harm Meals on Wheels budgets because those funds sometimes offer reimbursements, he said.&nbsp;Isys Schmitt, director of nutrition at the Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging, said her agency serves 18 counties at 28 sites in northwest Kansas.&nbsp;“I do hear the concerns from participants,” she said. “I think it’s more they hear these things on the news, and they automatically think it’s going to affect our program very badly.”Her agency receives about 25% of its funding from federal sources, 25% from the state, and the rest in contributions, Schmitt said.&nbsp;Protas said Meals on Wheels programs are all funded through different mechanisms, so it’s difficult to tell how cuts might affect each program. Some get almost no federal funding, while others may receive 80% of funds from federal sources.<h2>Staying calm, planning ahead</h2>Julie Govert Walter, executive director of the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging Inc., is assessing potential cuts and trying to plan for how her agency might be affected, including the Meals on Wheels program it runs.&nbsp;“We’re right now telling people don’t panic,” she said. “We don’t want our elder Kansans to stress out over the uncertainty. At the same time, we want lawmakers in Washington to understand that the Older Americans Act programs are making significant differences in the lives of older Kansans and their caregivers and their families.”About half of Walter’s agency budget is derived from the Older Americans Act, with about 34% of the allocation and related in-kind match donations supporting the meals program in 18 northeast Kansas counties.Alkire said that Wichita’s Senior Services has other programs besides Meals on Wheels, including a senior employment program and four senior centers for active seniors 55 and older.&nbsp;“Meals on Wheels is our bread and butter,” she said. “We’ve got some reserves, but that wouldn’t last long.”Walter said she believes the programs her organization runs are aligned with Trump administration policies because they’re frugal, cost-conscious and have significant volunteer support. In addition, Meals on Wheels helps seniors live independently, which often keeps them out of more costly nursing home facilities.&nbsp;Protas said the national organization is walking the line of not scaring seniors about funding cuts but making sure people are reaching out to make their voices heard.“Many of these things that we’re worried about, there haven’t been final decisions made yet,” he said. “So we’re using this time to advocate and to just tell the story about Meals on Wheels. We’re advising our Meals on Wheels member programs to do some contingency planning so that in the event that there are delays or disruptions in funding, they’re not caught off guard. We’re not doing that in a way that instills panic, but we recognize that the threats are serious.”<h2>No budget numbers</h2>Walter said planning right now is tough because of political uncertainties, but even more so because she doesn’t have information from the feds that she needs. Usually by this time of year, she knows what her budget is for the upcoming year. She doesn’t have those numbers yet to plan for fiscal year 2026, which will start in October.&nbsp;In mid-March, Congress funded the Older Americans Act and other programs through September 2025 with a continuing resolution. But no one knows what will happen next, Walter said. When she considers potential cuts of up to 30% of her agency’s funding, she’s not sure how to think about what actions to take.&nbsp;Options could include cutting the number of days they serve meals from five to two or three, but that would involve potential workforce cuts, she said.&nbsp;“It’s a puzzle,” she said. “We’re doing what we can to communicate with members of Congress about our situation, and I will say I think most members of the Kansas congressional delegation understand the importance of the OAA.”<h2>Little understanding of aging</h2>Walter said one of the biggest challenges is communicating with people about the importance of Meals on Wheels and other programs for aging Kansans.&nbsp;“We all know what it’s like to be a kid, to be an adolescent, to be a young adult, and to be in middle age,” she said. “But honestly, most people don’t get what it’s like to really deal with challenges and the anxieties of being older, 75 and 80 plus, until we’re there. It’s so dependent on health and community and social relationships.”“The stress and uncertainty is real, and it has real effects on people’s minds and hearts and spirits,” Walter said. “It’s hard to quantify, but you know it’s real. Drama is not good for older people.”

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