On this episode, Nate King sits down for a conversation with Saline County Sheriff's Office Operations Captain Jim Hughes, to learn about free trauma first aid kits and classes that will be available to the public this winter. 

Listen in and learn about what trauma first aid is and how an eight-hour training will empower and prepare you to save a life. Hughes also addresses the delays in offering the course, attributing them to a shortage of kits and supply chain slowdowns. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion on the importance of trauma first-aid training.

If you are interested in signing up for trauma first aid training, call the Saline County Sheriff's Office (785) 826-6500 and ask for Capt. Jim Hughes.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Captain Jim Hughes, Saline County Sheriff’s Office, Trauma First Aid Training" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=fj6a7-14c982c-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By SALINA POSTOn this episode, Nate King sits down for a conversation with Saline County Sheriff's Office Operations Captain Jim Hughes, to learn about free trauma first aid kits and classes that will be available to the public this winter. Listen in and learn about what trauma first aid is and how an eight-hour training will empower and prepare you to save a life. Hughes also addresses the delays in offering the course, attributing them to a shortage of kits and supply chain slowdowns. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion on the importance of trauma first-aid training.If you are interested in signing up for trauma first aid training, call the Saline County Sheriff's Office (785) 826-6500 and ask for Capt. Jim Hughes.&nbsp;

PODCAST: Free trauma first aid class — Capt. Jim Hughes shares details 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697662242045.png" alt="(Courtesy of ESPN+ &amp; Big 12 Conference)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy of ESPN+ &amp; Big 12 Conference)</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Big 12 MBB Media Day: KU head coach Bill Self" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=y64mw-14d539d-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=1b1b1b" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 LISTEN: KU MBB coach Bill Self at Big 12 Media Day

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697640788848.png" alt="(Courtesy ESPN+ &amp; the Big 12 Conference)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy ESPN+ &amp; the Big 12 Conference)</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Big 12 MBB Media Day: K-State head coach Jerome Tang" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=medr6-14d4c3d-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=1b1b1b" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 LISTEN: K-State MBB coach Jerome Tang at Big 12 Media Day

WASHINGTON (AP) — The House of Representatives has rejected Jim Jordan's nomination for speaker two weeks after the chamber ousted Kevin McCarthy from the top spot.

Jordan scrambled unsuccessfully to shore up the votes needed to clinch the speakership in the closely divided chamber. He could only afford to lose a few GOP votes to win the nod.

The Ohio congressman did even worse than Kevin McCarthy did on the first balloting of his election back in January.

Jordan lost 20 Republican votes, well more than the three he could spare to win the speaker's gavel.

More rounds of voting are expected as Jordan works to shore up support to replace McCarthy for the job and the leader of the GOP’s hard-right flank moves to take a central seat of U.S. power. But it's unclear when the next vote will take place.

The Jordan holdouts are a mix of pragmatists, ranging from seasoned legislators and committee chairs worried about governing to newer lawmakers from districts where their voters back home prefer President Joe Biden to former President Donald Trump.

Twenty Republicans voted against Jordan, an outcome way worse than his allies were hoping for.&nbsp; Republican members of the Kansas and Missouri delegation voted for Jordan.

Leading up to the vote, some Republicans were resentful of the pressure put on them by Jordan’s allies and complained they were being threatened with primary opponents if they didn't support him as speaker.

McCarthy says he does not expected another vote on House speaker right away.

The House went into recess shortly Tuesday afternoon after Jordan lost the first round of voting to become the chamber's leader.

McCarthy said the Republican conference would regroup and talk to the members who have “differences of opinion” on who the next House speaker should be.

Republicans rejected&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jim-jordan-house-speaker-republicans-0f759a46f63aa9daf9e6939e45799329">Rep. Jim Jordan</a>&nbsp;for House speaker on Tuesday on the first ballot, as holdouts denied the hard-charging ally of Donald Trump the majority needed to seize the gavel.

More voting is expected as Jordan works to shore up support to replace the ousted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mccarthy-gaetz-speaker-motion-to-vacate-congress-327e294a39f8de079ef5e4abfb1fa555">Kevin McCarthy</a>&nbsp;for the job and the leader of the GOP's hard-right flank moves to take a central seat of U.S. power.

But after two weeks of angry Republican infighting since McCarthy was removed by hard-liners, the House vote quickly has become&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/speaker-jordan-scalise-mccarthy-election-votes-explainer-db85c1d80dcc36f296245851ad1278ab">a showdown for the gavel</a>. Some 20 reluctant Republicans are refusing to give Jordan their votes, viewing the Ohio congressman as too extreme for the powerful position of House speaker, second in line to the presidency.

The holdouts are a mix of pragmatists, ranging from seasoned legislators and committee chairs worried about governing to newer lawmakers from districts where their voters back home prefer President Joe Biden to Trump.

But with public pressure bearing down on lawmakers from Trump's allies including Fox News Channel's Sean Hannity, it's unclear how long the holdouts can last. Jordan swiftly flipped dozens of detractors in a matter of days, shoring up Republicans who have few options left.

“Jim Jordan will be a great speaker,” the former president said outside the courthouse in Manhattan, where he is facing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fraud-trial-net-worth-new-york-067501b1d742d4dccba2521ac3262fdb">business fraud charges</a>. "I think he’s going to have the votes soon, if not today, over the next day or two."

The political climb has been steep for Jordan, the combative Judiciary Committee chairman and a founding member of the right-flank Freedom Caucus. He is known more as a chaos agent than a skilled legislator, raising questions about how he would lead. Congress faces daunting challenges, risking&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-mccarthy-congress-republicans-732baaa19c91f981e492fd0e6a76aba8">a federal shutdown</a>&nbsp;if it fails to fund the government and fielding President Joe Biden's requests for aid to help&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mccarthy-gaetz-speaker-motion-to-vacate-congress-327e294a39f8de079ef5e4abfb1fa555">Ukraine</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/a">Israel</a>&nbsp;in the wars abroad.

To seize the gavel, Jordan will need almost the full majority of his colleagues behind him in a House floor vote, as Democrats are certain to back their own nominee, Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York.

With the House Republican majority narrowly held at 221-212, Jordan can afford to lose only a few votes to reach the 217 majority threshold, if there are no further absences.

As the somber roll call was underway, each lawmaker verbally announcing their choice, the holdouts quickly surfaced.

One, Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., a leader of the centrists, voted McCarthy, the ousted former speaker. Murmurs rippled through the chamber. Others voted for Majority Leader Steve Scalise, who was the party's first nominee to replace McCarthy before he, too, was rejected by hardl-iners last week.

Making the official nominating speech was another top Trump ally, GOP conference chairwoman Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York, who drew from the lessons of the Old Testament before declaring Jordan will be “We the People’s speaker.”

On the other side of the aisle, Democratic caucus chairman Rep. Pete Aguilar of California nominated Jeffries and warned that handing the speaker’s gavel to a “vocal election denier” would be “a terrible message” at home and abroad.

Aguilar recited all the times Jordan voted against various measures -- abortion access, government aid and others, Democrats chanting “He said no!”

Upset that a small band of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kevin-mccarthy-republican-lawmakers-house-opponents-33c7d984964916f29d548b5b1dfe508b">hard-liners have upended the House</a>&nbsp;by ousting McCarthy, Republicans have watched their majority control of the chamber descend into public infighting. All House business has ground to a halt.

After a late-evening meeting Monday at the Capitol turned into a venting session of angry Republicans, Jordan acknowledged: “We’ve got a few more people to talk to, listen to.”

One holdout, Republican Rep. Ken Buck of Colorado, said Jordan’s role in the runup to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/capitol-siege">the Jan. 6, 2021, attack</a>&nbsp;on the Capitol and his refusal to admit that Biden, a Democrat, won the 2020 election remained an issue.

“Jim, at some point, if he’s going to lead this conference during the presidential election cycle and particularly in a presidential election year ... is going to have to be strong and say Donald Trump didn’t win the election and we need to move forward,” Buck said.

But Jordan can rely on Trump's support as well as pressure on colleagues from an army of grassroots activists who recognize him from cable news and fiery performances at committee hearings. Republicans say it will be hard for rank-and-file lawmakers to oppose him in a public floor vote.

Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., who engineered McCarthy's ouster by a handful of hard-liners, publicly praised each lawmaker who has flipped to Jordan's column — and berated those who have not.

“Thank you Rep. Ann Wagner!” Gaetz posted on social media, after the Missouri Republican announced her support.

One by one, others also announced their support. Still, it could take multiple rounds during House floor voting, not unlike in January when it took McCarthy 15 ballots to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-united-states-house-of-representatives-kevin-mccarthy-us-republican-party-0938c7358f41c83759246f8949ac7c15">win the gavel</a>.

Democrats have decried the far-right shift, calling Jordan the leader of the chaos wing of the GOP.

Jordan has been a top Trump ally, particularly during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-confirm-joe-biden-78104aea082995bbd7412a6e6cd13818">the Jan. 6 Capitol attack</a>&nbsp;by the former president's backers who were trying to overturn the 2020 election he lost to Biden. Days later, Trump awarded Jordan&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-jim-jordan-impeachments-capitol-siege-eeadab127460dd5170e79608f654aca6">a Medal of Freedom</a>.

“Jim Jordan is an insurrectionist who has no place being second in line to the presidency,” said Michael Fanone, a former District of Columbia police officer who was wounded fighting the mob on Jan. 6.

Now the Republican Party’s front-runner to challenge Biden in the 2024 election, Trump backed Jordan to replace McCarthy early on and was working against the nomination of Scalise, who withdrew last week after colleagues rejected their own rules and failed to coalesce around him.

Tensions remained high among Republicans ahead of voting. Rank-and-file Republicans are exhausted by the internal party infighting with no other work being done in Congress.

Some Republicans resent being pressured by Jordan's allies and say they are being threatened with primary opponents if they don’t support him as speaker. One aide said their office received an email from Hannity's team pushing Jordan.

Others are simply upset at the way the whole process has dragged out. One, Scalise backer Rep. Mike Kelly, R-Pa., began circulating an option to give Rep Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., the interim speaker pro-tempore, more authority to lead.

First elected in 2006, Jordan has few bills to his name from his time in office. He also faces questions about his past. Some years ago, Jordan&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-6fb5bfff7db9439883907efce5c119fb">denied allegations</a>&nbsp;from former wrestlers during his time as an assistant wrestling coach at Ohio State University who accused him of knowing about claims they were inappropriately groped by an Ohio doctor. Jordan has said he was never aware of any abuse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697564676639.png" alt="View of the House floor duing the Tuesday afternoon vote count photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>View of the House floor duing the Tuesday afternoon vote count photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The House of Representatives has rejected Jim Jordan's nomination for speaker two weeks after the chamber ousted Kevin McCarthy from the top spot.Jordan scrambled unsuccessfully to shore up the votes needed to clinch the speakership in the closely divided chamber. He could only afford to lose a few GOP votes to win the nod.The Ohio congressman did even worse than Kevin McCarthy did on the first balloting of his election back in January.Jordan lost 20 Republican votes, well more than the three he could spare to win the speaker's gavel.More rounds of voting are expected as Jordan works to shore up support to replace McCarthy for the job and the leader of the GOP’s hard-right flank moves to take a central seat of U.S. power. But it's unclear when the next vote will take place.The Jordan holdouts are a mix of pragmatists, ranging from seasoned legislators and committee chairs worried about governing to newer lawmakers from districts where their voters back home prefer President Joe Biden to former President Donald Trump.Twenty Republicans voted against Jordan, an outcome way worse than his allies were hoping for.&nbsp; Republican members of the Kansas and Missouri delegation voted for Jordan.Leading up to the vote, some Republicans were resentful of the pressure put on them by Jordan’s allies and complained they were being threatened with primary opponents if they didn't support him as speaker.McCarthy says he does not expected another vote on House speaker right away.The House went into recess shortly Tuesday afternoon after Jordan lost the first round of voting to become the chamber's leader.McCarthy said the Republican conference would regroup and talk to the members who have “differences of opinion” on who the next House speaker should be.--------Republicans rejected&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jim-jordan-house-speaker-republicans-0f759a46f63aa9daf9e6939e45799329">Rep. Jim Jordan</a>&nbsp;for House speaker on Tuesday on the first ballot, as holdouts denied the hard-charging ally of Donald Trump the majority needed to seize the gavel.More voting is expected as Jordan works to shore up support to replace the ousted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mccarthy-gaetz-speaker-motion-to-vacate-congress-327e294a39f8de079ef5e4abfb1fa555">Kevin McCarthy</a>&nbsp;for the job and the leader of the GOP's hard-right flank moves to take a central seat of U.S. power.But after two weeks of angry Republican infighting since McCarthy was removed by hard-liners, the House vote quickly has become&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/speaker-jordan-scalise-mccarthy-election-votes-explainer-db85c1d80dcc36f296245851ad1278ab">a showdown for the gavel</a>. Some 20 reluctant Republicans are refusing to give Jordan their votes, viewing the Ohio congressman as too extreme for the powerful position of House speaker, second in line to the presidency.The holdouts are a mix of pragmatists, ranging from seasoned legislators and committee chairs worried about governing to newer lawmakers from districts where their voters back home prefer President Joe Biden to Trump.But with public pressure bearing down on lawmakers from Trump's allies including Fox News Channel's Sean Hannity, it's unclear how long the holdouts can last. Jordan swiftly flipped dozens of detractors in a matter of days, shoring up Republicans who have few options left.“Jim Jordan will be a great speaker,” the former president said outside the courthouse in Manhattan, where he is facing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fraud-trial-net-worth-new-york-067501b1d742d4dccba2521ac3262fdb">business fraud charges</a>. "I think he’s going to have the votes soon, if not today, over the next day or two."The political climb has been steep for Jordan, the combative Judiciary Committee chairman and a founding member of the right-flank Freedom Caucus. He is known more as a chaos agent than a skilled legislator, raising questions about how he would lead. Congress faces daunting challenges, risking&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-mccarthy-congress-republicans-732baaa19c91f981e492fd0e6a76aba8">a federal shutdown</a>&nbsp;if it fails to fund the government and fielding President Joe Biden's requests for aid to help&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mccarthy-gaetz-speaker-motion-to-vacate-congress-327e294a39f8de079ef5e4abfb1fa555">Ukraine</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/a">Israel</a>&nbsp;in the wars abroad.To seize the gavel, Jordan will need almost the full majority of his colleagues behind him in a House floor vote, as Democrats are certain to back their own nominee, Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York.With the House Republican majority narrowly held at 221-212, Jordan can afford to lose only a few votes to reach the 217 majority threshold, if there are no further absences.As the somber roll call was underway, each lawmaker verbally announcing their choice, the holdouts quickly surfaced.One, Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., a leader of the centrists, voted McCarthy, the ousted former speaker. Murmurs rippled through the chamber. Others voted for Majority Leader Steve Scalise, who was the party's first nominee to replace McCarthy before he, too, was rejected by hardl-iners last week.Making the official nominating speech was another top Trump ally, GOP conference chairwoman Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York, who drew from the lessons of the Old Testament before declaring Jordan will be “We the People’s speaker.”On the other side of the aisle, Democratic caucus chairman Rep. Pete Aguilar of California nominated Jeffries and warned that handing the speaker’s gavel to a “vocal election denier” would be “a terrible message” at home and abroad.Aguilar recited all the times Jordan voted against various measures -- abortion access, government aid and others, Democrats chanting “He said no!”Upset that a small band of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kevin-mccarthy-republican-lawmakers-house-opponents-33c7d984964916f29d548b5b1dfe508b">hard-liners have upended the House</a>&nbsp;by ousting McCarthy, Republicans have watched their majority control of the chamber descend into public infighting. All House business has ground to a halt.After a late-evening meeting Monday at the Capitol turned into a venting session of angry Republicans, Jordan acknowledged: “We’ve got a few more people to talk to, listen to.”One holdout, Republican Rep. Ken Buck of Colorado, said Jordan’s role in the runup to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/capitol-siege">the Jan. 6, 2021, attack</a>&nbsp;on the Capitol and his refusal to admit that Biden, a Democrat, won the 2020 election remained an issue.“Jim, at some point, if he’s going to lead this conference during the presidential election cycle and particularly in a presidential election year ... is going to have to be strong and say Donald Trump didn’t win the election and we need to move forward,” Buck said.But Jordan can rely on Trump's support as well as pressure on colleagues from an army of grassroots activists who recognize him from cable news and fiery performances at committee hearings. Republicans say it will be hard for rank-and-file lawmakers to oppose him in a public floor vote.Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., who engineered McCarthy's ouster by a handful of hard-liners, publicly praised each lawmaker who has flipped to Jordan's column — and berated those who have not.“Thank you Rep. Ann Wagner!” Gaetz posted on social media, after the Missouri Republican announced her support.One by one, others also announced their support. Still, it could take multiple rounds during House floor voting, not unlike in January when it took McCarthy 15 ballots to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-united-states-house-of-representatives-kevin-mccarthy-us-republican-party-0938c7358f41c83759246f8949ac7c15">win the gavel</a>.Democrats have decried the far-right shift, calling Jordan the leader of the chaos wing of the GOP.Jordan has been a top Trump ally, particularly during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-confirm-joe-biden-78104aea082995bbd7412a6e6cd13818">the Jan. 6 Capitol attack</a>&nbsp;by the former president's backers who were trying to overturn the 2020 election he lost to Biden. Days later, Trump awarded Jordan&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-jim-jordan-impeachments-capitol-siege-eeadab127460dd5170e79608f654aca6">a Medal of Freedom</a>.“Jim Jordan is an insurrectionist who has no place being second in line to the presidency,” said Michael Fanone, a former District of Columbia police officer who was wounded fighting the mob on Jan. 6.Now the Republican Party’s front-runner to challenge Biden in the 2024 election, Trump backed Jordan to replace McCarthy early on and was working against the nomination of Scalise, who withdrew last week after colleagues rejected their own rules and failed to coalesce around him.Tensions remained high among Republicans ahead of voting. Rank-and-file Republicans are exhausted by the internal party infighting with no other work being done in Congress.Some Republicans resent being pressured by Jordan's allies and say they are being threatened with primary opponents if they don’t support him as speaker. One aide said their office received an email from Hannity's team pushing Jordan.Others are simply upset at the way the whole process has dragged out. One, Scalise backer Rep. Mike Kelly, R-Pa., began circulating an option to give Rep Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., the interim speaker pro-tempore, more authority to lead.First elected in 2006, Jordan has few bills to his name from his time in office. He also faces questions about his past. Some years ago, Jordan&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-6fb5bfff7db9439883907efce5c119fb">denied allegations</a>&nbsp;from former wrestlers during his time as an assistant wrestling coach at Ohio State University who accused him of knowing about claims they were inappropriately groped by an Ohio doctor. Jordan has said he was never aware of any abuse.

No winner in House Speaker vote; Kan. GOP lawmakers vote for Jordan

During the month of Oct. the Salina Post will be publishing a series of profiles introducing the community to the six Salina City Commission candidates and school board member candidates for USD 306, USD 305, and USD 307.&nbsp;

The Salina Post sent questionnaires to the candidates asking for biographical information, initiatives they hope to champion as a board member, and why they chose to run for school board.

The general election will be Nov. 7. The deadline to register for the 2023 Election is Oct. 17 before 8 p.m.&nbsp;

If you live outside of Saline County check with your local elections officer for election deadlines.

What is your profession?Office manager for Kossow Clinic, Co-Founder of the School Marathon Program

Give a brief bio on yourself in 100 words or less:&nbsp;

My name is Dana Kossow, and I am asking for your vote for re-election to the USD 305 School Board. As a current School Board member, I have worked to ensure&nbsp;the district has held firm to our mission of being the&nbsp;best place to learn and work by embracing challenges, creating belonging, fostering pride, and inspiring hope. During the past four years, I have put time and energy into understanding the complexity of our school district. I would appreciate the opportunity to use the knowledge I have gained to continue positively impacting all Salina Public Schools.

As a school board member what specific initiatives or policies would you prioritize or improve educational outcomes and support the overall well-being of students in our community? Teacher/Staff retention is a major priority. The BOE and District Office Team have begun the work needed to address this problem, but there is still work to be done. One change initiated this year was to give student teachers a stipend. We know that teachers are more likely to stay where they student teach. Because of this change, we have increased student-teacher numbers in our buildings and attracted student-teachers from colleges that have traditionally not come to Salina to student-teach.&nbsp;6.In recent years many books have been removed from the shelves of public libraries due to their alleged inappropriate content. As a school board member where do you stand on this issue?&nbsp;&nbsp;I do not believe in book banning. USD 305 has policies that give the parents control over what their child has access to. Each school website has a library tab that gives library policies and parental oversight instructions. All parents are given the option of providing expressed permission before their student checks out any book.&nbsp; Parental engagement and community involvement are crucial for the success of any school district. What strategies would you implement to increase collaboration between parents and educators?&nbsp; &nbsp;In the past two years, I have seen incredible changes in how USD 305 creates community involvement and parental engagement. Superintendent Exline has inserted herself into the community with listening sessions in various locations. These sessions have been open to all parents and community members.&nbsp;Dr. Curtis Stevens, Director of Secondary Education, and his team have amplified USD 305's relationships with community businesses by creating the Building Bridges program. By inviting parents and community members into our schools, we are telling Salina that we are proud of our schools and want people to feel welcomed and invited to be part of the growth we hope to see with our new mission statement and strategic&nbsp;planning goals.&nbsp;

By SALINA POSTDuring the month of Oct. the Salina Post will be publishing a series of profiles introducing the community to the six Salina City Commission candidates and school board member candidates for USD 306, USD 305, and USD 307.&nbsp;The Salina Post sent questionnaires to the candidates asking for biographical information, initiatives they hope to champion as a board member, and why they chose to run for school board.The general election will be Nov. 7. The deadline to register for the 2023 Election is Oct. 17 before 8 p.m.&nbsp;If you live outside of Saline County check with your local elections officer for election deadlines.<h2>Dana Kossow</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697548305054.jpeg" alt="Dana Kassow" />
 <figcaption>Dana Kassow</figcaption>
 </figure>What is your age?&nbsp;57What is your profession?Office manager for Kossow Clinic, Co-Founder of the School Marathon ProgramAre you an incumbent?YesGive a brief bio on yourself in 100 words or less:&nbsp;My name is Dana Kossow, and I am asking for your vote for re-election to the USD 305 School Board. As a current School Board member, I have worked to ensure&nbsp;the district has held firm to our mission of being the&nbsp;best place to learn and work by embracing challenges, creating belonging, fostering pride, and inspiring hope. During the past four years, I have put time and energy into understanding the complexity of our school district. I would appreciate the opportunity to use the knowledge I have gained to continue positively impacting all Salina Public Schools.As a school board member what specific initiatives or policies would you prioritize or improve educational outcomes and support the overall well-being of students in our community? Teacher/Staff retention is a major priority. The BOE and District Office Team have begun the work needed to address this problem, but there is still work to be done. One change initiated this year was to give student teachers a stipend. We know that teachers are more likely to stay where they student teach. Because of this change, we have increased student-teacher numbers in our buildings and attracted student-teachers from colleges that have traditionally not come to Salina to student-teach.&nbsp;6.In recent years many books have been removed from the shelves of public libraries due to their alleged inappropriate content. As a school board member where do you stand on this issue?&nbsp;&nbsp;I do not believe in book banning. USD 305 has policies that give the parents control over what their child has access to. Each school website has a library tab that gives library policies and parental oversight instructions. All parents are given the option of providing expressed permission before their student checks out any book.&nbsp; Parental engagement and community involvement are crucial for the success of any school district. What strategies would you implement to increase collaboration between parents and educators?&nbsp; &nbsp;In the past two years, I have seen incredible changes in how USD 305 creates community involvement and parental engagement. Superintendent Exline has inserted herself into the community with listening sessions in various locations. These sessions have been open to all parents and community members.&nbsp;Dr. Curtis Stevens, Director of Secondary Education, and his team have amplified USD 305's relationships with community businesses by creating the Building Bridges program. By inviting parents and community members into our schools, we are telling Salina that we are proud of our schools and want people to feel welcomed and invited to be part of the growth we hope to see with our new mission statement and strategic&nbsp;planning goals.&nbsp;

2023 Election: Candidate for USD 305 School Board, Dana Kossow

Memorial Health System (MHS) is pleased to announce Allison Thompson, M.D. has joined the medical staff of Heartland Health Care Clinic at Memorial Hospital and she started seeing patients on October 9, 2023.

Dr. Thompson is a graduate of the University of Kansas School of Medicine in Salina, where she acquired many accolades. In 2016, she was named Family Medicine Interest Group President. In 2017, she received Exemplary Physician Attributes. In 2018, she was recognized for both Outstanding Leadership in Student Teaching and Overcoming Adversity and, in 2019, she was again recognized for Overcoming Adversity along with the Rural Medicine Award.

Dr. Thompson completed her residency program at McLennan County Family Medicine Residency in Waco, Texas. Just as she did in her years at the University of Kansas School of Medicine, she performed at exemplary levels and gained more achievements in 2023 including Most Compassionate Physician Award, Comprehensive Maternity Care Certification, and Global Health Care Certification.

Women’s health is a special interest for her, but she is still very much a full-scope family medicine physician; seeing patients of all ages. Toward the end of her residency, she had many patients scheduled for prenatal/postpartum care, newborn/well-child visits, mental health care, wound care, ultrasound-guided injections/minor procedures, and palliative care.   

&nbsp;“While this is something that continues to evolve with time, the one thing that stays constant is that I am happiest when talking face-to-face with patients. My biggest goal is to take the knowledge I have obtained so far (and will continue to keep growing) and make it available to each patient I encounter. More importantly, I want to use this information uniquely for patients, in the best way that will help them be where they want to be. While there can be "specific goals" for each thing in health care, my biggest drive is to figure out what each patient's personal goals are within their unique health/life circumstance and work with them to reach those goals, as these can be drastically different between individuals," Thompson said.&nbsp;

Dr.  Thompson, her high school sweetheart, Lance, whom she married in April this year, and their two Goldendoodle furbabies, bought a house in Abilene and arrived this summer.  She gives credit to her husband for his superpowers, “he keeps our lives organized, clean, and full of delicious food!”  She described herself as an old soul; enjoying things like leisurely walks with the dogs, sewing/quilting, playing the piano, playing board games/puzzles, listening to true-story podcasts/audiobooks, stargazing, or just sitting down with some good food and talking/laughing with others. “I'm always looking for new hobbies to get into, and I hope to start traveling some with my husband in the years to come,” she said.

It was important to be surrounded by a well-established and well-respected group of physicians, and she knew that she wanted to come back to a rural area in Kansas, as she had really enjoyed the rotations that she did in Colby, Holton, Concordia, and Beloit. 

 “Abilene perfectly fits the bill for its amazing people, great location, and warm home-town feel,” she said. 

Memorial Health System is fortunate to have Dr. Thompson join their team of healthcare champions, and Abilene has gained another great family for its community.

Dr. Thompson is accepting new patients. Please contact Heartland Health Care Clinic at (785) 263-4131 for more information, or visit www.CaringForYou.org and find the new patient packets on the Heartland Health Care Clinic page.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1677979493558.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Memorial Health System (MHS) is pleased to announce Allison Thompson, M.D. has joined the medical staff of Heartland Health Care Clinic at Memorial Hospital and she started seeing patients on October 9, 2023.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697470759633.png" alt="DR. ALLISON THOMPSON" />
 <figcaption>DR. ALLISON THOMPSON</figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Thompson is a graduate of the University of Kansas School of Medicine in Salina, where she acquired many accolades. In 2016, she was named Family Medicine Interest Group President. In 2017, she received Exemplary Physician Attributes. In 2018, she was recognized for both Outstanding Leadership in Student Teaching and Overcoming Adversity and, in 2019, she was again recognized for Overcoming Adversity along with the Rural Medicine Award.Dr. Thompson completed her residency program at McLennan County Family Medicine Residency in Waco, Texas. Just as she did in her years at the University of Kansas School of Medicine, she performed at exemplary levels and gained more achievements in 2023 including Most Compassionate Physician Award, Comprehensive Maternity Care Certification, and Global Health Care Certification.Women’s health is a special interest for her, but she is still very much a full-scope family medicine physician; seeing patients of all ages. Toward the end of her residency, she had many patients scheduled for prenatal/postpartum care, newborn/well-child visits, mental health care, wound care, ultrasound-guided injections/minor procedures, and palliative care. &nbsp;“While this is something that continues to evolve with time, the one thing that stays constant is that I am happiest when talking face-to-face with patients. My biggest goal is to take the knowledge I have obtained so far (and will continue to keep growing) and make it available to each patient I encounter. More importantly, I want to use this information uniquely for patients, in the best way that will help them be where they want to be. While there can be "specific goals" for each thing in health care, my biggest drive is to figure out what each patient's personal goals are within their unique health/life circumstance and work with them to reach those goals, as these can be drastically different between individuals," Thompson said.&nbsp;Dr. Thompson, her high school sweetheart, Lance, whom she married in April this year, and their two Goldendoodle furbabies, bought a house in Abilene and arrived this summer. She gives credit to her husband for his superpowers, “he keeps our lives organized, clean, and full of delicious food!” She described herself as an old soul; enjoying things like leisurely walks with the dogs, sewing/quilting, playing the piano, playing board games/puzzles, listening to true-story podcasts/audiobooks, stargazing, or just sitting down with some good food and talking/laughing with others. “I'm always looking for new hobbies to get into, and I hope to start traveling some with my husband in the years to come,” she said.It was important to be surrounded by a well-established and well-respected group of physicians, and she knew that she wanted to come back to a rural area in Kansas, as she had really enjoyed the rotations that she did in Colby, Holton, Concordia, and Beloit. “Abilene perfectly fits the bill for its amazing people, great location, and warm home-town feel,” she said. Memorial Health System is fortunate to have Dr. Thompson join their team of healthcare champions, and Abilene has gained another great family for its community.Dr. Thompson is accepting new patients. Please contact Heartland Health Care Clinic at (785) 263-4131 for more information, or visit www.CaringForYou.org and find the new patient packets on the Heartland Health Care Clinic page.

Heartland Health Care Clinic welcomes new doctor, Allison Thompson

&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/galleries/football/k-statefb-at-texas-tech/4326" target="_blank">Photo Gallery</a>

On a night in which everyone wore black, purple and white was the color of the night, as Kansas State knocked out Texas Tech, 38-21, behind a record-tying performance by true freshman quarterback Avery Johnson, who rushed for five touchdowns in his first appearance in a Big 12 Conference game on Saturday night at Jones AT&amp;T Stadium.

Johnson rushed 12 times for 91 yards and his rushing touchdowns tied the all-time record by Collin Klein in 2011 and Jonathan Beasley in 2000.

Johnson, who also completed 8-of-9 passes for 77 yards, entered the game for the first time late in the first quarter and rushed for a 2-yard touchdown. He raced five yards into the end zone in the second quarter, then scored three straight touchdowns on runs of 30, 11 and three yards in the second half, as the Wildcats went from a 21-17 deficit to a 17-point lead.

On and on it went. It was mesmerizing to watch.

“He was really good,” K-State head coach Chris Klieman said.

K-State, 4-2 overall and 2-1 in the Big 12, appeared as potent as it has been all season behind a rushing attack that gained 273 yards on 46 carries against a Red Raiders’ defense that allowed 123.0 yards on the ground per game.

Johnson and the Wildcats could’ve run for even more, but Johnson slid down after a 14-yard gain as the team ran off the final minute of their most lopsided win over the Red Raiders since 2014. They raced through Texas Tech, 3-4 and 2-2, to win their eighth straight in the series, while Johnson joined elite company.

“You see it all over the place, ‘K-State Beef,’” Johnson said. “They were opening holes for me to run through tonight. It’s not just them, it’s tight ends, wide receivers and running backs just setting stuff up. At the end of the day, they’re opening it up for me and that’s just me running and trying to get into the end zone.”

Although the defending Big 12 Champions came back from defeat to score victories last season, they had something to prove after a loss at Oklahoma State and were badly in need of a road win before back-to-back home games against TCU and Houston.

“We just needed to stay the course and block out the outside noise and listen to the inside noise, the coaches and your teammates who do believe in you all the time,” Klieman said. “I understand we needed to play better and didn’t play well last week, but it doesn’t mean we have a bad football team or a bad culture, or guys aren’t playing hard. I heard all those things this past week.

“Man, I see those kids every day. I love those kids and told them before the game that regardless how this game turned out, we got better this week. I’m so proud of the effort from the guys.”

Texas Tech outgained K-State 480-436 and the battle was tight in the beginning. Although K-State had a 17-14 lead at halftime, Texas Tech brushed that aside in a hurry behind true freshman Jake Strong, who took the Red Raiders 99 yards in 10 plays for a 21-17 lead with 9:31 left in the third quarter.

But Johnson and the Wildcats rose to the top.&nbsp;

Johnson, who split possessions with starting senior Will Howard in the first half, took control in the third quarter. He led his team 75 yards in nine plays capped by his 30-yard touchdown run on third-and-10 behind blocks from left guard Cooper Beebe, center Hayden Gillum and right guard Hadley Panzer. It was Johnson’s third touchdown of the game, and he hadn’t looked any better or comfortable.

He only appeared to gain confidence as the game wore on.

“We had a plan to play (Johnson) in the first half,” Klieman said. “He had a nice drive. Then we put Will back in and then Avery back in. We just bounced back and forth. Then in the third quarter, they were giving us the quarterback run, and that’s why we stayed with Avery, because if they’re going to play a deep safety and give you quarterback run, then we’re going to make people pay for it.”

Treshaun Ward led K-State with 15 carries for 118 yards and formed a potent one-two punch with Johnson.

“It’s just confidence and having fun, man,” Johnson said. “Me and Treshaun are laughing and having a fun time on the sideline playing the sport we love. Whenever he gets in space, he can put his foot in the ground, change direction, and get up field pretty quick.

“Tonight, he made a lot of guys miss.”

VJ Payne intercepted Strong when he stepped in front of an overthrown pass intended for Myles Price. Payne returned the ball to the 11 to set up Johnson, who strolled untouched into the end zone for his fourth touchdown and a 31-21 lead.

K-State regained the ball again when Strong threw a pass directly to Kobe Savage in the middle of the field at the K-State 28.

Strong tried to overcome his lumps, though, and fired pass after pass before Savage caught another interception off an overthrown pass, this time in the end zone for a touchback.

“I’d like to give a shoutout to the defensive line and the linebackers,” Savage said. “It’s just a credit to all the guys around me. It’s everyone and it’s not being too focused on the last play.”

Johnson threw a dart to Jayce Brown for a 21-yard gain to key another scoring drive. Ward carried the load with three straight runs of 10, nine and three yards. Then Johnson sprang into action against with a 3-yard keeper for his fifth touchdown and a 38-21 lead, prompting Texas Tech fans to head to the stadium exits.

The story of the first half was how Howard and Johnson shared the football.

Johnson took the field for the first time against Texas Tech with 5:09 left in the first quarter and led a 5-play, 59-yard drive in which Keagan Johnson powered 13 yards on a jet sweep before he was pushed out of bounds by Tyler Owens. On the next play, the speedy Avery Johnson took the ball the two yards on a keeper over the right pylon for a score to build upon an early 3-0 lead.

Texas Tech answered as quarterback Behren Morton took the Red Raiders 75 yards on 14 plays capped by his one-yard push into the end zone on fourth down to narrow the gap to 10-7.

“This is a darn good (Texas Tech) team,” Klieman said. “They’re really good. They get after you.”

Howard completed 6-of-9 passes for 86 yards. He and Johnson teamed up to regain a double-digit advantage at 17-7. Howard hit Ben Sinnott with a 5-yard pass and Sinnott ran another 37 yards to the Texas Tech 31. Then Johnson took over and drove the Wildcats the rest of the way. Sinnott, who caught six passes for 72 yards, took out two defenders as a run blocker and Johnson ran through the gap on a 5-yard keeper for his second touchdown.

However, the Red Raiders responded after the Wildcats’ score and got another touchdown of their own when they scurried 89 yards in the final 77 seconds of the first half. Brooks’ 2-yard rush with 23 seconds remaining narrowed the Wildcats’ lead to 17-14. Brooks finished the game with 17 carries for 98 yards and one score.

Although Brooks entered the game with the sixth most rushing yards in the FBS, the night belonged to the Wildcats.&nbsp;

“We’re just going to have to throw this game behind us like we did after Oklahoma State,” Savage said. “We need to stay neutral. We don’t need to get too high after having this win, even though it was a great win.

“We just need to throw it away tomorrow and get back to work Monday with the same mentality and same physicality we had throughout last week.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697467134372.jpeg" alt="Johnson’s 5 TDs Helps K-State Run Past Texas Tech, 38-21. K-State&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Johnson’s 5 TDs Helps K-State Run Past Texas Tech, 38-21. K-State&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/galleries/football/k-statefb-at-texas-tech/4326" target="_blank">Photo Gallery</a>By D. SCOTT FRITCHENOn a night in which everyone wore black, purple and white was the color of the night, as Kansas State knocked out Texas Tech, 38-21, behind a record-tying performance by true freshman quarterback Avery Johnson, who rushed for five touchdowns in his first appearance in a Big 12 Conference game on Saturday night at Jones AT&amp;T Stadium.Johnson rushed 12 times for 91 yards and his rushing touchdowns tied the all-time record by Collin Klein in 2011 and Jonathan Beasley in 2000.Johnson, who also completed 8-of-9 passes for 77 yards, entered the game for the first time late in the first quarter and rushed for a 2-yard touchdown. He raced five yards into the end zone in the second quarter, then scored three straight touchdowns on runs of 30, 11 and three yards in the second half, as the Wildcats went from a 21-17 deficit to a 17-point lead.On and on it went. It was mesmerizing to watch.“He was really good,” K-State head coach Chris Klieman said.K-State, 4-2 overall and 2-1 in the Big 12, appeared as potent as it has been all season behind a rushing attack that gained 273 yards on 46 carries against a Red Raiders’ defense that allowed 123.0 yards on the ground per game.Johnson and the Wildcats could’ve run for even more, but Johnson slid down after a 14-yard gain as the team ran off the final minute of their most lopsided win over the Red Raiders since 2014. They raced through Texas Tech, 3-4 and 2-2, to win their eighth straight in the series, while Johnson joined elite company.“You see it all over the place, ‘K-State Beef,’” Johnson said. “They were opening holes for me to run through tonight. It’s not just them, it’s tight ends, wide receivers and running backs just setting stuff up. At the end of the day, they’re opening it up for me and that’s just me running and trying to get into the end zone.”Although the defending Big 12 Champions came back from defeat to score victories last season, they had something to prove after a loss at Oklahoma State and were badly in need of a road win before back-to-back home games against TCU and Houston.Mission accomplished.“We just needed to stay the course and block out the outside noise and listen to the inside noise, the coaches and your teammates who do believe in you all the time,” Klieman said. “I understand we needed to play better and didn’t play well last week, but it doesn’t mean we have a bad football team or a bad culture, or guys aren’t playing hard. I heard all those things this past week.“Man, I see those kids every day. I love those kids and told them before the game that regardless how this game turned out, we got better this week. I’m so proud of the effort from the guys.”Texas Tech outgained K-State 480-436 and the battle was tight in the beginning. Although K-State had a 17-14 lead at halftime, Texas Tech brushed that aside in a hurry behind true freshman Jake Strong, who took the Red Raiders 99 yards in 10 plays for a 21-17 lead with 9:31 left in the third quarter.But Johnson and the Wildcats rose to the top.&nbsp;Johnson, who split possessions with starting senior Will Howard in the first half, took control in the third quarter. He led his team 75 yards in nine plays capped by his 30-yard touchdown run on third-and-10 behind blocks from left guard Cooper Beebe, center Hayden Gillum and right guard Hadley Panzer. It was Johnson’s third touchdown of the game, and he hadn’t looked any better or comfortable.He only appeared to gain confidence as the game wore on.“We had a plan to play (Johnson) in the first half,” Klieman said. “He had a nice drive. Then we put Will back in and then Avery back in. We just bounced back and forth. Then in the third quarter, they were giving us the quarterback run, and that’s why we stayed with Avery, because if they’re going to play a deep safety and give you quarterback run, then we’re going to make people pay for it.”Treshaun Ward led K-State with 15 carries for 118 yards and formed a potent one-two punch with Johnson.“It’s just confidence and having fun, man,” Johnson said. “Me and Treshaun are laughing and having a fun time on the sideline playing the sport we love. Whenever he gets in space, he can put his foot in the ground, change direction, and get up field pretty quick.“Tonight, he made a lot of guys miss.”VJ Payne intercepted Strong when he stepped in front of an overthrown pass intended for Myles Price. Payne returned the ball to the 11 to set up Johnson, who strolled untouched into the end zone for his fourth touchdown and a 31-21 lead.K-State regained the ball again when Strong threw a pass directly to Kobe Savage in the middle of the field at the K-State 28.Strong tried to overcome his lumps, though, and fired pass after pass before Savage caught another interception off an overthrown pass, this time in the end zone for a touchback.“I’d like to give a shoutout to the defensive line and the linebackers,” Savage said. “It’s just a credit to all the guys around me. It’s everyone and it’s not being too focused on the last play.”Johnson threw a dart to Jayce Brown for a 21-yard gain to key another scoring drive. Ward carried the load with three straight runs of 10, nine and three yards. Then Johnson sprang into action against with a 3-yard keeper for his fifth touchdown and a 38-21 lead, prompting Texas Tech fans to head to the stadium exits.The story of the first half was how Howard and Johnson shared the football.Johnson took the field for the first time against Texas Tech with 5:09 left in the first quarter and led a 5-play, 59-yard drive in which Keagan Johnson powered 13 yards on a jet sweep before he was pushed out of bounds by Tyler Owens. On the next play, the speedy Avery Johnson took the ball the two yards on a keeper over the right pylon for a score to build upon an early 3-0 lead.Texas Tech answered as quarterback Behren Morton took the Red Raiders 75 yards on 14 plays capped by his one-yard push into the end zone on fourth down to narrow the gap to 10-7.“This is a darn good (Texas Tech) team,” Klieman said. “They’re really good. They get after you.”Howard completed 6-of-9 passes for 86 yards. He and Johnson teamed up to regain a double-digit advantage at 17-7. Howard hit Ben Sinnott with a 5-yard pass and Sinnott ran another 37 yards to the Texas Tech 31. Then Johnson took over and drove the Wildcats the rest of the way. Sinnott, who caught six passes for 72 yards, took out two defenders as a run blocker and Johnson ran through the gap on a 5-yard keeper for his second touchdown.However, the Red Raiders responded after the Wildcats’ score and got another touchdown of their own when they scurried 89 yards in the final 77 seconds of the first half. Brooks’ 2-yard rush with 23 seconds remaining narrowed the Wildcats’ lead to 17-14. Brooks finished the game with 17 carries for 98 yards and one score.Although Brooks entered the game with the sixth most rushing yards in the FBS, the night belonged to the Wildcats.&nbsp;“We’re just going to have to throw this game behind us like we did after Oklahoma State,” Savage said. “We need to stay neutral. We don’t need to get too high after having this win, even though it was a great win.“We just need to throw it away tomorrow and get back to work Monday with the same mentality and same physicality we had throughout last week.”

Johnson’s 5 TDs Helps K-State Run Past Texas Tech, 38-21

Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes Coachs Show 6 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>)

Chiefs Kingdom Show 7 p.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com) </a>

Kpreps Kansas Pregame Show 6 p.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com) </a>

Southeast of Saline Trojans Football Pregame Show 6:30 p.m. (<a href="http://910KINA">Listen on KINA</a> or Watch and Listen Live on Salina Post)

Southeast of Saline Trojans vs. Ellsworth Bearcats Football at Ellsworth Jr./Sr. High School, Ellsworth, Ks 7 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA</a> or Watch and Listen Live on Salina Post)

Sacred Heart Knights vs. Republic County Buffaloes at Gene Bissell Field, Salina, Ks  7 p.m.  (Watch and Listen on Salina Post)

KIN Scoreboard Show 10 p.m.&nbsp; (<a href="http://910KINA.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>)

MRN Nascar Live 8 a.m. (<a href="http://910KINA.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>)

Kansas Wesleyan University Coyotes Football Pregame Show 4 p.m. (<a href="http://910KINA.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>)

Kansas Wesleyan University Coyotes VS Saint Mary University Spires at Kansas Wesleyan University Graves Sports Complex, JRI Stadium, Gene Bissell Field, 5pm. (<a href="http://910KINA.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>

PRN  The Pit Reporters  9 a.m.  (Listen on KINA and 910kina.com) 

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Los Angeles Chargers at Arrowhead Stadium, GEHA Field, Kansas City, Mo&nbsp; 2 p.m. (<a href="http://910KINA.com">Listen on KINA</a> and <a href="https://99kg.live/#//">99.9FM KSKG</a>)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591971280271.jpeg" alt="KINA New logo Blue Black" />
 <figcaption>KINA New logo Blue Black</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Monday</h2>Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes Coachs Show 6 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>) Chiefs Kingdom Show 7 p.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com) </a><h2>Friday</h2>Kpreps Kansas Pregame Show 6 p.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com) </a>Southeast of Saline Trojans Football Pregame Show 6:30 p.m. (<a href="http://910KINA">Listen on KINA</a> or Watch and Listen Live on Salina Post)Southeast of Saline Trojans vs. Ellsworth Bearcats Football at Ellsworth Jr./Sr. High School, Ellsworth, Ks 7 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA</a> or Watch and Listen Live on Salina Post)Sacred Heart Knights vs. Republic County Buffaloes at Gene Bissell Field, Salina, Ks 7 p.m. (Watch and Listen on Salina Post)KIN Scoreboard Show 10 p.m.&nbsp; (<a href="http://910KINA.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>) <h2>Saturday </h2>MRN Nascar Live 8 a.m. (<a href="http://910KINA.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>) Kansas Wesleyan University Coyotes Football Pregame Show 4 p.m. (<a href="http://910KINA.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>)Kansas Wesleyan University Coyotes VS Saint Mary University Spires at Kansas Wesleyan University Graves Sports Complex, JRI Stadium, Gene Bissell Field, 5pm. (<a href="http://910KINA.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a><h2>Sunday</h2>PRN The Pit Reporters 9 a.m. (Listen on KINA and 910kina.com) Kansas City Chiefs vs. Los Angeles Chargers at Arrowhead Stadium, GEHA Field, Kansas City, Mo&nbsp; 2 p.m. (<a href="http://910KINA.com">Listen on KINA</a> and <a href="https://99kg.live/#//">99.9FM KSKG</a>)

910KINA weekly sports schedule 10/16/23

Quivira’s water rights supersede most farms in the region, but irrigation upstream has severely limited water access

By ALLISON KITE,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/10/04/evergy-regulators-near-deal-on-kansas-electric-rates/">Kansas Reflector</a>

Federal officials have agreed to pause their demand for water for the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge in favor of working with state and local agencies to find a solution.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service operates the Quivira refuge in Stafford County. Its rare inland marshes provide a vital stopping point for migratory birds.

But in recent years, Rattlesnake Creek, which normally flows into the refuge, has been all but dry. The refuge received less than its fair share of water in two out of every three years between 2008 and 2021, a report by the state found, because of irrigation upstream from the refuge.&nbsp;

The continued lack of sufficient water led the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to write to the state in February requesting that the state ensure the refuge’s fair share of water.

Quivira holds a state water right, entitling it to more than 14,000 acre-feet of water each year. And establishment of that water right in 1957 makes it a more senior user than many farms in the region, giving it higher priority to water flows.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in February filed a “request to secure water” with the Kansas Department of Agriculture, a process by which water right holders with seniority, like Quivira, can request that the state force junior water right holders to cut back.&nbsp;

The move was criticized by elected officials and farm groups.

Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, said forcing farmers to cut back their water use “could devastate the entire region.”

In a letter to the Kansas Department of Agriculture on Wednesday, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service agreed to press pause on its request to secure water in favor of a collaborative approach to solving the issue.

“We remain open to and supportive of a collaborative approach that makes meaningful progress in addressing the impairment of the water right at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge while minimizing the impact to other water users and the local communities in which they live,” the service wrote.

But if that approach doesn’t work, the letter says, the service will again request to secure water for the refuge.

Kelly and U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, celebrated the service’s pledge in a news release.

“I am pleased that both parties have agreed to collaborate on a sustainable solution for all who rely on the Rattlesnake Creek Basin,” Kelly said. “By working together, we can show how agricultural producers and all water rights holders can rise to the challenge to meet our state’s water needs now and into the future.”

Moran said he appreciated the service’s effort to listen to Kansans.

“It is important we establish long-term solutions that support the refuge and the regional economy,” Moran said, “and I am pleased that all parties are working together towards a sustainable future for the watershed and our Kansas producers.”

The Kansas Farm Bureau’s president, Joe Newland, commended Kelly and Moran’s bipartisan approach to finding a resolution.

“Kansas Farm Bureau, working directly alongside impacted farmers and ranchers within the watershed, looks forward to working together to ensure the economic driver that is Kansas agriculture continues to prosper for decades to come under our priority-based water allocation system supplemented by augmentation,” Newland said in a news release.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696013446266.png" alt=" A flock of green-winged teal settle on the marsh at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge. (Rachel Laubhan/USFWS)" />
 <figcaption> A flock of green-winged teal settle on the marsh at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge. (Rachel Laubhan/USFWS)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Quivira’s water rights supersede most farms in the region, but irrigation upstream has severely limited water access</h2>By ALLISON KITE,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/10/04/evergy-regulators-near-deal-on-kansas-electric-rates/">Kansas Reflector</a>Federal officials have agreed to pause their demand for water for the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge in favor of working with state and local agencies to find a solution.The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service operates the Quivira refuge in Stafford County. Its rare inland marshes provide a vital stopping point for migratory birds.But in recent years, Rattlesnake Creek, which normally flows into the refuge, has been all but dry. The refuge received less than its fair share of water in two out of every three years between 2008 and 2021, a report by the state found, because of irrigation upstream from the refuge.&nbsp;The continued lack of sufficient water led the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to write to the state in February requesting that the state ensure the refuge’s fair share of water.Quivira holds a state water right, entitling it to more than 14,000 acre-feet of water each year. And establishment of that water right in 1957 makes it a more senior user than many farms in the region, giving it higher priority to water flows.The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in February filed a “request to secure water” with the Kansas Department of Agriculture, a process by which water right holders with seniority, like Quivira, can request that the state force junior water right holders to cut back.&nbsp;The move was criticized by elected officials and farm groups.Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, said forcing farmers to cut back their water use “could devastate the entire region.”In a letter to the Kansas Department of Agriculture on Wednesday, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service agreed to press pause on its request to secure water in favor of a collaborative approach to solving the issue.“We remain open to and supportive of a collaborative approach that makes meaningful progress in addressing the impairment of the water right at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge while minimizing the impact to other water users and the local communities in which they live,” the service wrote.But if that approach doesn’t work, the letter says, the service will again request to secure water for the refuge.Kelly and U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, celebrated the service’s pledge in a news release.“I am pleased that both parties have agreed to collaborate on a sustainable solution for all who rely on the Rattlesnake Creek Basin,” Kelly said. “By working together, we can show how agricultural producers and all water rights holders can rise to the challenge to meet our state’s water needs now and into the future.”Moran said he appreciated the service’s effort to listen to Kansans.“It is important we establish long-term solutions that support the refuge and the regional economy,” Moran said, “and I am pleased that all parties are working together towards a sustainable future for the watershed and our Kansas producers.”The Kansas Farm Bureau’s president, Joe Newland, commended Kelly and Moran’s bipartisan approach to finding a resolution.“Kansas Farm Bureau, working directly alongside impacted farmers and ranchers within the watershed, looks forward to working together to ensure the economic driver that is Kansas agriculture continues to prosper for decades to come under our priority-based water allocation system supplemented by augmentation,” Newland said in a news release.

Federal officials step back from water request at Kan. wildlife refuge 

Join 910KINA's Saturday Morning Show hosts Dave and Sam this Saturday from 9-11 a.m. on 910AM.

Hear highlights about community events, public affairs, and all things happening in Salina. Their approach is friendly, informative, and entertaining. They're committed to making a difference in their community and keeping listeners up-to-date with updates from new and returning guests.

To listen to past 910KINA Saturday Morning Shows head on over to the KINA podcast homepage&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KINA&amp;embedOpened=true&amp;embedOpenedApp=song&amp;embedOpenedSong=910683and6831076845683KINA&amp;embedOpenedArtist=&amp;embedOpenedAlbum=">here.</a>

9:05 a.m.&nbsp; Amanda Otto, Executive Director Big Brothers Big Sisters on Frosty Fun Run

9:20 a.m.&nbsp; Jill Ade on Gypsum Fall Festival

9:30 a.m.&nbsp; Mandy McIntire on Veterans Day Parade and Kansas Honor Flight

10:05 a.m.&nbsp; Curtis Stevens, USD 305, Director of Secondary Programs and Building Bridges

10:30 a.m.&nbsp; Mike Peterson, Community Housing Development Corporation of Central Kansas

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691172591916.png" alt="Dave and Sam" />
 <figcaption>Dave and Sam</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTJoin 910KINA's Saturday Morning Show hosts Dave and Sam this Saturday from 9-11 a.m. on 910AM.Hear highlights about community events, public affairs, and all things happening in Salina. Their approach is friendly, informative, and entertaining. They're committed to making a difference in their community and keeping listeners up-to-date with updates from new and returning guests.To listen to past 910KINA Saturday Morning Shows head on over to the KINA podcast homepage&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KINA&amp;embedOpened=true&amp;embedOpenedApp=song&amp;embedOpenedSong=910683and6831076845683KINA&amp;embedOpenedArtist=&amp;embedOpenedAlbum=">here.</a><h2>Saturday Morning Lineup</h2>9:05 a.m.&nbsp; Amanda Otto, Executive Director Big Brothers Big Sisters on Frosty Fun Run9:20 a.m.&nbsp; Jill Ade on Gypsum Fall Festival9:30 a.m.&nbsp; Mandy McIntire on Veterans Day Parade and Kansas Honor Flight10:05 a.m.&nbsp; Curtis Stevens, USD 305, Director of Secondary Programs and Building Bridges10:30 a.m.&nbsp; Mike Peterson, Community Housing Development Corporation of Central Kansas

910KINA Saturday Morning Show lineup

<a href="https://kuathletics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/23-FB-GameNotes7-OSU2a.pdf">GAME NOTES</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxsports.com/live/fs1">WATCH</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/jayhawk-sports-network/">LISTEN</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://stats.statbroadcast.com/broadcast/?id=473271&amp;vislive=kan">LIVE STATS</a>

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Ranked No. 23 in the AP Top 25, the Kansas Jayhawks will travel to Stillwater, Oklahoma to take on the Oklahoma State Cowboys on Saturday, October 14 at 2:30 p.m. CT. The game will be broadcast on FS1 with Jeff Levering (Play-by-Play) and Mark Helfrich (Analyst) on the call.

Kansas (5-1, 2-1 Big 12) is 5-1 in back-to-back seasons for the first time since 2008-09. The Jayhawks are fresh off a 51-22 victory over UCF, in which Kansas rushed for 399 yards and five touchdowns, marking the most rushing yards and touchdowns in a game by KU in the Big 12 Conference era.

The Jayhawks are 2-1 in Big 12 play entering the weekend, following wins against newcomers BYU (Sept. 23, 38-27) and UCF (Oct. 7, 51-22), marking Kansas’ second-straight 2-1 Big 12 Conference start for the first time since 2008-09.

Kansas running back Devin Neal is among the nation’s leaders in rushing, averaging 7.70 yards per attempt, while his seven touchdowns this season are tied for the most in the Big 12 this season. Defensively, defensive end Austin Booker ranks atop the Big 12 Conference in sacks with five through six games.

Oklahoma State (3-2, 1-1 Big 12) enters Saturday’s game coming off a 29-21 Friday night victory over Kansas State on October 6, in which running back Ollie Gordon ran for 136 yards and a touchdown and defensive back Cameron Epps recorded two interceptions, returning one for a touchdown. The Cowboys are one of the more effective teams in the country in the red zone, converting 94.1% of the time, which is the best in the Big 12 to date.

The matchup between the Jayhawks and the Cowboys will be the 74th in the series history, with Oklahoma State leading all-time, 40-30-3. In Stillwater, the Cowboys are 18-14-2 against the Jayhawks all-time, while Kansas won the last matchup with Oklahoma State, 37-16, in Lawrence in 2022, clinching bowl eligibility for the first time since 2008.

Following this weekend’s game in Stillwater, Kansas will enter its open week, before playing Oklahoma on Saturday, October 28 in Lawrence. The meeting with the Sooners will be the 134th in the series history, in which Oklahoma leads 80-27-6 all-time and a 37-14-3 advantage in games played in Lawrence.

Tickets for the Kansas’ Homecoming matchup against Oklahoma and the remaining three home games can be&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/ticket-information/">purchased here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696869758447.png" alt="(Courtesy Kansas Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy Kansas Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://kuathletics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/23-FB-GameNotes7-OSU2a.pdf">GAME NOTES</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxsports.com/live/fs1">WATCH</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/jayhawk-sports-network/">LISTEN</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://stats.statbroadcast.com/broadcast/?id=473271&amp;vislive=kan">LIVE STATS</a>Courtesy of Kansas AthleticsLAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Ranked No. 23 in the AP Top 25, the Kansas Jayhawks will travel to Stillwater, Oklahoma to take on the Oklahoma State Cowboys on Saturday, October 14 at 2:30 p.m. CT. The game will be broadcast on FS1 with Jeff Levering (Play-by-Play) and Mark Helfrich (Analyst) on the call.Kansas (5-1, 2-1 Big 12) is 5-1 in back-to-back seasons for the first time since 2008-09. The Jayhawks are fresh off a 51-22 victory over UCF, in which Kansas rushed for 399 yards and five touchdowns, marking the most rushing yards and touchdowns in a game by KU in the Big 12 Conference era.The Jayhawks are 2-1 in Big 12 play entering the weekend, following wins against newcomers BYU (Sept. 23, 38-27) and UCF (Oct. 7, 51-22), marking Kansas’ second-straight 2-1 Big 12 Conference start for the first time since 2008-09.Kansas running back Devin Neal is among the nation’s leaders in rushing, averaging 7.70 yards per attempt, while his seven touchdowns this season are tied for the most in the Big 12 this season. Defensively, defensive end Austin Booker ranks atop the Big 12 Conference in sacks with five through six games.Oklahoma State (3-2, 1-1 Big 12) enters Saturday’s game coming off a 29-21 Friday night victory over Kansas State on October 6, in which running back Ollie Gordon ran for 136 yards and a touchdown and defensive back Cameron Epps recorded two interceptions, returning one for a touchdown. The Cowboys are one of the more effective teams in the country in the red zone, converting 94.1% of the time, which is the best in the Big 12 to date.The matchup between the Jayhawks and the Cowboys will be the 74th in the series history, with Oklahoma State leading all-time, 40-30-3. In Stillwater, the Cowboys are 18-14-2 against the Jayhawks all-time, while Kansas won the last matchup with Oklahoma State, 37-16, in Lawrence in 2022, clinching bowl eligibility for the first time since 2008.Following this weekend’s game in Stillwater, Kansas will enter its open week, before playing Oklahoma on Saturday, October 28 in Lawrence. The meeting with the Sooners will be the 134th in the series history, in which Oklahoma leads 80-27-6 all-time and a 37-14-3 advantage in games played in Lawrence.Tickets for the Kansas’ Homecoming matchup against Oklahoma and the remaining three home games can be&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/ticket-information/">purchased here</a>.

🏈 No. 23 KU travels to Stillwater on Saturday afternoon

<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=22745&amp;type=Archive" target="_blank">Watch Coach Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/chris-klieman-press-conference-october-10-2023/4836" target="_blank">Listen to Coach Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/player-breakout-interviews-october-10-2023/4837" target="_blank">Listen to Player Breakout Interviews</a>&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;and select players met with members of the media on Tuesday inside the Vanier Family Football Complex as the Wildcats face Texas Tech in Lubbock, Texas, on Saturday night. Links to video and audio of Klieman’s press conference – which was streamed live on Big 12 Now on ESPN+ – are above in addition to an audio link of player breakout interviews. A transcript of Klieman’s opening statement is below.

“Good afternoon, everyone. Another tough road trip this week heading to Lubbock. Another night game on the road. They’ve got a really good football team. Coach (Joey) McGuire has done a phenomenal job. I’ve got a ton of respect for him and his program. I think they've got one of the best running backs, for sure in the Big 12, and probably in the country. He’s probably not getting recognized enough. He is in the Big 12, but nationally I think he's one of the best that we've got to do a phenomenal job of trying to – you're not going to shut it down – but trying to control the rush game. Then on defense, they do a great job of getting pressure with their front four. Their front four is really good. They’ve got dynamic guys, and then they've got really physical, long DB’s and linebackers. So, bottom line for us is we need to be better across the board. It doesn’t matter if it’s by a position, it's by unit – offense, defense, and special teams. We had a good practice yesterday coming off a couple quote ‘off days’ on Saturday and Sunday even though we met on Saturday. The guys had a good workout yesterday, and we got to come up with great plans because it's going to be a big challenge.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697028559055.jpeg" alt="Coach Klieman" />
 <figcaption>Coach Klieman</figcaption>
 </figure> <a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=22745&amp;type=Archive" target="_blank">Watch Coach Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/chris-klieman-press-conference-october-10-2023/4836" target="_blank">Listen to Coach Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/player-breakout-interviews-october-10-2023/4837" target="_blank">Listen to Player Breakout Interviews</a>&nbsp; MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;and select players met with members of the media on Tuesday inside the Vanier Family Football Complex as the Wildcats face Texas Tech in Lubbock, Texas, on Saturday night. Links to video and audio of Klieman’s press conference – which was streamed live on Big 12 Now on ESPN+ – are above in addition to an audio link of player breakout interviews. A transcript of Klieman’s opening statement is below.CHRIS KLIEMAN, HEAD COACHOpening Statement…“Good afternoon, everyone. Another tough road trip this week heading to Lubbock. Another night game on the road. They’ve got a really good football team. Coach (Joey) McGuire has done a phenomenal job. I’ve got a ton of respect for him and his program. I think they've got one of the best running backs, for sure in the Big 12, and probably in the country. He’s probably not getting recognized enough. He is in the Big 12, but nationally I think he's one of the best that we've got to do a phenomenal job of trying to – you're not going to shut it down – but trying to control the rush game. Then on defense, they do a great job of getting pressure with their front four. Their front four is really good. They’ve got dynamic guys, and then they've got really physical, long DB’s and linebackers. So, bottom line for us is we need to be better across the board. It doesn’t matter if it’s by a position, it's by unit – offense, defense, and special teams. We had a good practice yesterday coming off a couple quote ‘off days’ on Saturday and Sunday even though we met on Saturday. The guys had a good workout yesterday, and we got to come up with great plans because it's going to be a big challenge.”

K-State Discusses Contest at Texas Tech During Weekly Press Conference

The Hays USD 489 school board voted to offer free breakfast to all students at its meeting on Monday. The free breakfasts will start on Monday, Oct. 16.

During the pandemic, breakfast and lunches were provided free to all students thanks to federal funding.

Jessica Younker, director of USD 489 nutrition services, said 700 to 800 students per day were eating school breakfast when the meals were free. That has dropped to 500 meals now that families have to pay again.

The highest utilization of breakfast now is at Hays High School. The district offers a second-chance breakfast after the first period. It serves an additional 100 students off of carts during that seven-minute passing period.

If the number of students eating breakfast goes back to COVID levels, the school district should have enough funds on hand to cover the cost of the free breakfasts, Younker said.

If it increases beyond COVID levels, the nutrition program will need to dip into its reserves, Younker said.

Superintendent Ron Wilson said providing breakfast will provide a quality learning experience for all students.

Providing free breakfast to all students should eliminate the stigma of eating breakfast at school, Younker said.

"It's much easier to teach a kid who is focused on learning and not focused on their tummy growling," Younker said.&nbsp;

She said her department is working to change the breakfast menus to make them more appealing to kids.

"We are adding some new stuff and listening to kids about what they want and what they don't want," she said.

"This eliminates the money factor. If kids don’t eat at home, they can eat at school and not worry about that."

Board members applauded Younker for bringing the plan to the school board. The program was unanimously approved.

"I applaud this focus on kids," Craig Pallister, board member, said. "If a kindergartener or first grader or second grader or junior is sitting in a classroom, it's not their fault they're hungry.

"We can look at the money situation next year and see if we can extend that."

Ken Brooks said, "This is incredible work for kids."

Lincoln Elementary School received a state grant this school year to provide free breakfasts and lunches to all students due to socioeconomic factors of its students.&nbsp;

Kerri Lacy, Lincoln principal, said school meal utilization has increased by 30 to 35 percent since the free meals were offered.

The school board also reviewed two enrollment policies.

Kyzer Fox, HHS senior, spoke during the public comment session of the meeting.

"Obviously, I won't personally go to school in the new high school," he said ..."But I'm very happy that my siblings will be able to learn in an upgraded educational environment."

Ground was broken Wednesday on a new $105-million high school.

He said he is more likely to come back to Hays to raise his family because of the new school.

Three people spoke against private bathrooms planned for the new high school during the public comment session.

By CRISTINA JANNEY&nbsp;Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board voted to offer free breakfast to all students at its meeting on Monday. The free breakfasts will start on Monday, Oct. 16.During the pandemic, breakfast and lunches were provided free to all students thanks to federal funding.Jessica Younker, director of USD 489 nutrition services, said 700 to 800 students per day were eating school breakfast when the meals were free. That has dropped to 500 meals now that families have to pay again.The highest utilization of breakfast now is at Hays High School. The district offers a second-chance breakfast after the first period. It serves an additional 100 students off of carts during that seven-minute passing period.If the number of students eating breakfast goes back to COVID levels, the school district should have enough funds on hand to cover the cost of the free breakfasts, Younker said.If it increases beyond COVID levels, the nutrition program will need to dip into its reserves, Younker said.Superintendent Ron Wilson said providing breakfast will provide a quality learning experience for all students.Providing free breakfast to all students should eliminate the stigma of eating breakfast at school, Younker said."It's much easier to teach a kid who is focused on learning and not focused on their tummy growling," Younker said.&nbsp;She said her department is working to change the breakfast menus to make them more appealing to kids."We are adding some new stuff and listening to kids about what they want and what they don't want," she said."This eliminates the money factor. If kids don’t eat at home, they can eat at school and not worry about that."Board members applauded Younker for bringing the plan to the school board. The program was unanimously approved."I applaud this focus on kids," Craig Pallister, board member, said. "If a kindergartener or first grader or second grader or junior is sitting in a classroom, it's not their fault they're hungry."We can look at the money situation next year and see if we can extend that."Ken Brooks said, "This is incredible work for kids."Lincoln Elementary School received a state grant this school year to provide free breakfasts and lunches to all students due to socioeconomic factors of its students.&nbsp;Kerri Lacy, Lincoln principal, said school meal utilization has increased by 30 to 35 percent since the free meals were offered.The school board also reviewed two enrollment policies.Kyzer Fox, HHS senior, spoke during the public comment session of the meeting."Obviously, I won't personally go to school in the new high school," he said ..."But I'm very happy that my siblings will be able to learn in an upgraded educational environment."Ground was broken Wednesday on a new $105-million high school.He said he is more likely to come back to Hays to raise his family because of the new school.Three people spoke against private bathrooms planned for the new high school during the public comment session.

Hays USD 489 to offer free breakfast for all students

K-State cattle experts offer ways that cow-calf producers can incorporate practices for longevity

When building a business, many will agree it is important to incorporate management practices with long-term goals in mind.

In much the same way, many cow-calf operators are looking for ways to make their herds economically and environmentally sustainable, said the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute experts speaking on a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/10/06/whats-next-in-genetic-technologies-supplemental-protein-selecting-for-sustainability/">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast. Joining in the discussion was Bob Weaber, K-State beef cattle geneticist and head of the Eastern Kansas Research and Extension Center.

“By improving the efficiency of the cow herd we can make dramatic improvements in greenhouse gas emission,” Weaber said. “Producers that are focused on resource allocation and efficiency often capture energy in a way that yields more profitability for their operation.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696945211442.jpeg" alt="Cattle in a pasture" />
 <figcaption>Cattle in a pasture</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>K-State cattle experts offer ways that cow-calf producers can incorporate practices for longevity</h2>By LISA MOSER KSREWhen building a business, many will agree it is important to incorporate management practices with long-term goals in mind.In much the same way, many cow-calf operators are looking for ways to make their herds economically and environmentally sustainable, said the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute experts speaking on a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/10/06/whats-next-in-genetic-technologies-supplemental-protein-selecting-for-sustainability/">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast. Joining in the discussion was Bob Weaber, K-State beef cattle geneticist and head of the Eastern Kansas Research and Extension Center.“By improving the efficiency of the cow herd we can make dramatic improvements in greenhouse gas emission,” Weaber said. “Producers that are focused on resource allocation and efficiency often capture energy in a way that yields more profitability for their operation.”K-State beef cattle nutritionist Phillip Lancaster agreed with Weaber and added, “When we make the conversion of forage to calf more efficient, we are improving our sustainability and we are decreasing the amount of greenhouse gas emitted per unit of product.”The experts agree that there are tools that cow-calf producers can leverage when looking to improve the stayability of cows in the herd.One of those that has gained recent attention is a product recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration that can be used to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, said K-State veterinarian Brian Lubbers.“Now that there is a process for approval through the FDA, I expect there will be more non-genetic tools available in the near future for those who are focused on sustainability,” Lubbers said.Along with that, Weaber said that some beef breed associations are using data to help producers meet their operational goals.“A number of breed associations publish a sustained fertility or stayability EPD, but the reality is while those are important genetic evaluations, it’s a lowly heritable trait,” Weaber said.He added: “We can make meaningful improvement genetically but it also means that management and environment play a disproportionately larger role in how long a cow lasts in the herd.”Weaber said the cows need to match their environment in terms of mature cow size and metabolic efficiency. He also said that they need to be balanced in their lactation.The other measure that producers need to account for, according to K-State veterinarian Bob Larson, is reproduction.“By using the tools of breeding soundness exams, pregnancy checking and body condition evaluations, producers should have a herd with a high percentage of cows exposed to bulls that raise a healthy calf to weaning. And that is reproductive efficiency,” Larson said.To hear the full discussion, listen to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/10/06/whats-next-in-genetic-technologies-supplemental-protein-selecting-for-sustainability/">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast online or through your preferred streaming platform.