Wheat production lowest since 1972, USDA says

Wheat production dropped last year to its lowest level since 1972, a casualty of a drought that singed crops across the nation, the Agriculture Department said Friday.

U.S. farmers harvested 1.62 billion bushels of wheat, down 17 percent from 2001. Soybeans also were affected by the weather. U.S. production was 2.73 billion bushels, about 6 percent below 2001.

Kansas officials also reported crop declines for the state on Friday. Wheat production was down 19 percent at 267.3 million bushels. Corn production fell to 290 million bushels, down 97.4 million bushels from a year earlier. Soybeans totaled 58.4 million bushels, down 28.9 million bushels.

Aviation: United wins labor case

A bankruptcy judge on Friday ordered United Airlines’ machinists to take temporary 14 percent pay cuts, handing the carrier an important early victory in its quest to reduce labor costs sharply during Chapter 11 reorganization.

The world’s second-largest airline, which hasn’t made money since 2000, sought the court mandate to pacify lenders demanding quick progress in bankruptcy and to gain more time to negotiate new contracts.

Dillon stores: Grocer names president

The Kroger Co. on Friday named John Bays president of Dillon Stores, which operates 110 stores in Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Arkansas. He succeeds Bob Colvey, who announced his retirement after 40 years with the company.

Bays, 51, previously served as vice president of merchandising in Kroger’s Delta division in Memphis.

Colvey had been president of Dillon Stores since 1993.

Dillon Stores operates four Dillons and six Kwik Shops in Lawrence.

Lawrence: Construction industry offered review of codes

Individuals involved with the construction industry will have an opportunity to talk with Lawrence’s Code Enforcement staff and receive a review of building codes.

A seminar will be from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Lawrence Arts Center, 940 N.H. and will cover the electrical code.

Reservations are not required and there is no admission fee. For more information, call the Neighborhood Resources Department at 832-3100.