Kansas Department of Health and Environment

SALINE COUNTY - The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the Saline Co. Rural Water District No. 3 public water supply system located in Saline County.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

The advisory took effect on July 11, 2025, and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a waterline break resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system.&nbsp; Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 785-819-0481, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kdhe.ks.gov%2F468%2FDisruption-in-Water-Service%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000197f9bcd1d7-7bca8f33-aa8b-4c85-9db1-d8f1543164ac-000000/j2G0WeqQWYT3LWyfsCgD4vXdUZvN2KTWNC12m2ngMy0=413">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Disruption-in-Water-Service</a>

Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

Boil Water Advisory issued for Saline County Rural Water District No. 3 

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Looking for a new podcast to keep you informed and connected within your local community? Look no further than Eagle Media's latest podcast, "King in the Community."&nbsp;

Join Eagle Media Salina News Director Nate King as he talks with local and regional government officials, first responders, non-profit leaders and unique individuals with fascinating stories from north central Kansas and beyond. Learn about how organizations in your neighborhood leverage their partnerships to create a more interconnected community.

Available on all your favorite platforms, including&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/king-in-the-community/id1687185014">Apple podcasts,</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://kinginthecommunity.podbean.com/">Podbean</a>,<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1ZeCj4TK3kaOZEvgQaDlio">&nbsp;Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c78f2e2e-c714-4aaf-ad4c-4864a4038889">Amazon Audible</a>, TuneIn + Alexa,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/king-in-the-community-5324914">Podchaser,</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.boomplaymusic.com/podcasts/62430">Boomplay</a>.&nbsp;

No matter what streaming service you use, we've got you covered with engaging discussions and insightful interviews that will help you understand the issues that matter most to you.&nbsp; So why wait? Tune in to the "King in the Community" podcast today and discover a new way to stay connected.

For a full list of episodes<a href="https://kinginthecommunity.podbean.com/page/2/">&nbsp;click here</a>. Thanks for listening!

🎙The latest from 'King in the Community' with Nate King

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our news tip email address. Have a breaking news story, a community event, or a feel-good story that deserves to be shared? 

Submit your news tips via email to <a href="http://newstips@salinapost.com">newstips@salinapost.com</a>

Whether you're a Salina local, a native Kansan, or have moved out of state, we want to hear from you. Your contributions help us keep our community informed and engaged. 

So, if you have a story to tell or a photo of breaking news we should know about, send it to newstips@salinapost.com.

Salina Post news tip email address

Salina Post is thrilled to announce an exciting update - we are now accepting letters to the editor from our readers. We believe that our community's voices deserve to be heard, and providing a platform for open dialogue and constructive discussions is essential to a strong free press.&nbsp;

With the new letters to the editor offering, we aim to create a space where readers can express their thoughts, concerns, and ideas on a wide range of local topics that impact their daily lives.&nbsp;

Submitting a letter to the editor is simple. Just email your letter to <a href="mailto:admin@salinapost.com">admin@salinapost.com</a>

Ensure that your letter is concise and respectful. We value thoughtful and constructive discussions, so please make sure to present your arguments in a clear and coherent manner.

While we appreciate and encourage diverse perspectives, we also have certain guidelines in place. Letters should be free from hate speech, name-calling or any form of discrimination. We believe in promoting a respectful and inclusive environment for all readers.

Our editorial team will review all submissions and select letters that align with our guidelines and contribute positively to the conversation. We may edit letters for clarity, grammar, and length, but we will strive to maintain the essence of your message.

We are excited about this new opportunity to amplify your voice and encourage you to take advantage of this platform.

So, whether you have a burning issue or an important message to share, we invite you to submit a letter to the editor. Let's come together, learn from each other, and build a stronger community through the power of words.

All letters must include the author's name. No anonymous letters to the editor will be published, but if you have a news tip or an issue you would like us to know about still reach out via email at newstips@salinapost.com

<a href="https://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/advocacy/direct-action/letters-to-editor/main">Information Courtesy University of Kansas Community Toolbox</a>

You feel strongly about an issue, and you want to let people know what you think. You believe you can even influence people to take some action if you speak your mind. But, you want to reach an audience larger than just your friends or your group membership. Letters to the editor can be an effective way to get the word out.

A letter to the editor is a written way of talking to a newspaper, magazine, or other regularly printed publication. Letters to the editor are generally found in the first section of the newspaper, or towards the beginning of a magazine, or in the editorial page. They can take a position for or against an issue, or simply inform, or both. They can convince readers by using emotions, or facts, or emotions and facts combined. 

Letters to the editor are usually short and tight, rarely longer than 300 words.

Using a few carefully placed letters, you can generate plenty of community discussion. You can also keep an issue going by preventing it from disappearing from the public eye. You can stimulate the interest of the news media and create more coverage for the matters you're working on. You can also send a "good news" letter to bring recognition to people who deserve it or acknowledge the success of an effort.

Salina Post accepting letters to the editor

The Salina League of Women Voters held its 2024 General Election Forum on Oct. 20 at 1:30 in the Watson Room at the Stiefel Theatre in Salina. 

Click the link above to watch the candidates answer questions from the media and the public. Candidates present at the forum included Senate District 24-John Baker, House District 69-Lori Blake, and Clarke Sanders; Saline County Commission District 2-Annie Grevas and Kathleen Malone Crouch.

Noticeably absent from the forum was State Senator J.R. Claeys, whose empty chair and name card can be seen on the far left of the table of candidates.&nbsp;

Check Salina Post for an article about the candidate's responses on Tuesday, Oct. 22.

2024 League of Women Voters General Election Candidate Forum

Due to damages from Sunday's severe weather, the bridge and road south of Wilson, Kansas will NOT be open by Memorial Day, May 27.&nbsp;

According to the Ellsworth County Highway Department, a date has not been set for the road/bridge to reopen.&nbsp;

Plan an alternate route if you plan to travel in the area.&nbsp;

READ MORE<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3969fc82-b07d-4d4e-885d-fe75a7799560">:&nbsp;🎥UPDATED: Severe weather coverage May 19 — Salina Airport reports 100 mph winds</a>

River bridge, road project south of Wilson closed indefinetly 

Cope Notes is a text message-based service that provides individuals with randomly timed messages that contain anything from psychology facts to exercises and journaling prompts. Every subscriber’s text sequence is unique so that no two users ever receive the same message at the same time. 

Each <a href="https://copenotes.com/">Cope Notes</a> text must first undergo a thorough review process by a panel of peer-support advocates and mental health professionals, in order to ensure that the messages will have a positive effect on the subscriber’s health. The ultimate goal of the service is to train the brain to disrupt negative thoughts and promote a more positive pattern of thinking.

"We believe in the importance of mental health. We want to ensure our residents have access to the resources they need to stay healthy and thriving," said Saline County Health Officer Jason Tiller. "In my own personal experience with Cope Notes, I have found that the right messages seem to come at exactly the right time. It was been an uplifting experience for me, and I am thrilled we get to continue this service to our residents."

In 2022, Saline County initially offered the service for free to 300 residents. Because of the overwhelming response and in an effort to provide the service to more Saline County residents, the program is being offered at a 50 percent discount, according to information from the county.

To sign up for Cope Notes, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001scLNLAEK27GI7j38iOkmbBLY7glKLN0Wy6uF_d-8TLam2TPUzrfQlc9LS5oNICbDRUIbIxFeAe9F9t_3cBzqfldl0v4T9wLfMfxV5qLVYcHiyw0WBSsZFYJWzG17ByUTXv2fd3MbRsZWmxNokDZI85TAvv_DybpQ8u3RGpTS-VoOBpVKw3mIuQf0KEWbdEz2&amp;c=e8h8gccDrdCcdY1GLzjAyWQ83iic1YREdFKlJQ0cHZXKLBBGRtWzSA==&amp;ch=qH131SvBWUOQqWkIzjrjNennoWrg5mcmyLAePutxO-lGfSWshstgHw==" target="_blank">this link&nbsp;</a>and enter code&nbsp;SACOHALF&nbsp;and your credit or debit card information.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Saline County continues to offer Cope Notes at 50-percent discount

Not seeing precipitation totals from your area after a rain or snow event? Consider becoming a CoCoRaHS volunteer.

"CoCoRaHS is an acronym for the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network. CoCoRaHS is a unique, non-profit, community-based network of volunteers of all ages and backgrounds working together to measure and map precipitation (rain, hail and snow). By using low-cost measurement tools, stressing training and education, and utilizing an interactive website, our aim is to provide the highest quality data for natural resource, education and research applications," the organization noted on its website.

After rain, hail, or snow storms, CoCoRaHS volunteers take precipitation measurements. Those totals are then recorded on the CoCoRaHS&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/ViewData/StateDailyPrecipReports.aspx?state=KS">website</a>&nbsp;(Kansas reporting).

The precipitation totals are used by various organizations and individuals, including the National Weather Service, other meteorologists, hydrologists, emergency managers, insurance adjusters, farmers and ranchers, and, of course, Salina Post.

For more information about CoCoRaHS and its March recruiting efforts or to sign up as a CoCoRaHS volunteer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/marchmadness.aspx">click here</a>.

Precipitation reporting organization seeks local, area volunteers

By ROSARIO MENDEZ Attorney, Division of Consumer and Business Education, FTC

What’s worse than a bogus charity? A bogus charity with a dishonest fundraiser. The FTC has sued and stopped dishonest charity fundraisers that&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2020/09/spot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers">called people</a>&nbsp;to get them to donate to fake charities. Some prey on your kindness and desire to help people impacted by weather emergencies or a disaster. But when you get a call from a charity fundraiser, how do you know the caller is telling you the truth?

Ask the caller specific questions.

What is the charity’s name, phone number, or address? Write these down so you can confirm them later. Keep in mind that many charity names sound alike, and that sham charities often use names that are sound and look like names of legitimate charities.

How much of your donation will go directly to the programs you want to support?

Will your donation be tax-deductible? Not every call seeking a donation is from a charity. Some calls might be from Political Action Committees or other groups where donations are not deductible. See more questions to ask here.

Resist the pressure to donate on the spot.

After you’ve listened to the caller, hang up the phone and think about what they said. Then, go online and do your own research:

Search for the organization’s name and phone number, plus the word “scam” or “complaint.” What you find might help you decide if you want to make that donation.

Look up the organization’s name and address. Does it show up? If it doesn’t, that could be a sign the caller was lying to you.

See what these rating organizations say about the charity: BBB Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator, Charity Watch, and Candid.

If you get a donation request in the mail, do some research online before you donate. And if you spot a charity scam, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

If you get a donation request in the mail,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/charity">do some research online</a>&nbsp;before you donate. And if you spot a charity scam, report it to the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2020/09/www.reportfraud.ftc.gov">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

FTC: How to spot and stop dishonest charity fundraisers

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The start of a new school year is an expensive time for families. If you are struggling to pay for phone and internet services, there are programs to help you stay connected.

During Digital Connectivity and Lifeline Awareness Week, the Kansas Corporation Commission joins utility regulators nationwide in encouraging those in need of assistance to apply for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program.&nbsp; Both programs help low-income individuals and families stay connected so they can access health care, attend classes, find employment, and call for help in an emergency.

Lifeline provides federal and state discounts up to $17.02 per month on phone service (wireless or residential) and broadband. Seven million Americans currently benefit from the program, including approximately 30,000 Kansans.

The Federal Communication Commission’s Affordable Connectivity Plan&nbsp; provides a monthly internet service discount of up to $30 and a one-time device discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer or tablet. According to FCC data, more than 20 million U.S. households are currently enrolled, including approximately 120,000 in Kansas.

Eligibility&nbsp;is based on income&nbsp;(at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for Lifeline and at or below 200% for Affordable Connectivity Plan)&nbsp;or participation in certain assistance programs&nbsp;such as:

•&nbsp;&nbsp;Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) •&nbsp; Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) •&nbsp; Federal Public Housing Assistance (FHPA) •&nbsp; Veterans Pensions &amp; Survivors Pension Benefit •&nbsp; Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance •&nbsp; Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families •&nbsp; Head Start Tribal Programs (income based) •&nbsp; Food Distribution Program on Tribal Lands&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anyone who qualifies for Lifeline is automatically eligible to participate in Affordable Connectivity Plan. Others may still qualify for the plan if they meet any of the following criteria:

• Are approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including the&nbsp;USDA Community Eligibility Provision.&nbsp; • Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year.&nbsp; • Meet the eligibility criteria for a participating broadband provider’s existing low-income program.&nbsp;

Due to higher income maximums, Affordable Connectivity Plan  also has the potential to help families that may not qualify for other types of assistance. The maximum income for a family of four to qualify for the&nbsp; program is&nbsp;$60,000 per year compared to $40,500 for Lifeline. Both Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Plan offer additional discounts for subscribers living on tribal lands.

More information on income eligibility, participating providers, and the enrollment process is available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtjYy5rcy5nb3YvdGVsZWNvbW11bmljYXRpb25zL2xpZmVsaW5lP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MTEuODIzOTEwMjEifQ.SgutPMf7jc8B89ZmFqxVxA5ZBkjKYdszBMiWwbYC7oo/s/1510803030/br/225606126077-l" target="_blank">KCC’s website</a>.

Plans available to help Kansans unable to pay for phone, internet services stay connected

The Saline County Back to School Fair needs local volunteers to help prepare and pack&nbsp;800 backpacks&nbsp;with school supplies for area students.&nbsp;Youth volunteers are welcome.

This is a great way to help your local kids start the school year ready to succeed.

Contact:&nbsp;Brenda Gutierrez &amp; the Back to School Fair Steering Committee — (785) 577-5421

Volunteers needed for annual Saline County back to school fair

Here is the preview for the Saturday Morning Show on&nbsp;910 AM/107.5 FM KINA Salina for July 12th:

- Child Advocacy and Parenting Services (CAPS) of Salina&nbsp;

10:30 am - Gary Otte and Trish Grant

All episodes are recorded and uploaded on the&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?CFID=05fb1ecb-7d68-4542-adb3-9b7c11d9b5e5&amp;CFTOKEN=0&amp;stationCallSign=KINA&amp;onDemandAutoStart=true&amp;p92136680=true&amp;relocateURL=true">910 AM and 107.5 FM KINA website</a>, under the 'KINA Saturday Mornings'&nbsp;tab.

Saturday Morning Show preview for July 12

A male suspect from July's 2025 Most Wanted list, has been arrested according to the Saline County Sheriff's Office. The suspect is identified as 22-year old,&nbsp;Shane Richard Michael Boyett of Salina.

He was arrested on Thursday, July 10th and was booked in the Saline County Jail for the following requested charges:

Probation Violation, Failure to Appear, Interference with Law Enforcement, Obstruction and a Felony Warrant.

Suspect from July 2025 Most Wanted list arrested

Salina USD 305 has announced that online enrollment opens next week for&nbsp;new and returning Salina Public Schools students.&nbsp;

To login, go into <a href="https://skyward.usd305.com/scripts/wsisa.dll/WService=wsEAplus/skyportlogin.w">Skyward</a> July 14-28 for school registration.

Parents and guardians are asked to watch for their enrollment letter around July 12. The letter will arrive through the United States Postal Service.

Families who complete the online enrollment process before July 28, will receive $10 off curriculum fees for each student enrolled. Free and reduced-price meal applications are available during online enrollment and determine eligibility for free or reduced fees.

Walk-in enrollment for all schools and all students will be held at Salina Central High School, 650 E. Crawford, from 11:00 am – 7:00 pm&nbsp;on July 22.

Help with the online enrollment process will be available at walk-in enrollment.

Online enrollment opens July 14 for new and returning Salina USD 305 students

The Salina Police Department (SPD) has sent out a Crimestoppers release to the public, as they are seeking tips regarding a home burglary.

According to SPD on Friday, June 27th between 5:00 am and 1:00 pm, an alleged burglary occurred at a home on the 200 block of N. West Place. A victim living at the home reported that about '15 firearms were stolen.' Police stated that the firearms missing included several Walther brand handguns, a vintage British bolt action rifle and&nbsp;several other rifles and handguns.

Total loss was estimated to be around $9,000.

ORIGINAL: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5564a139-9e02-474b-b363-900ca5f97c1e">Salina Police investigating home burglary, several guns stolen</a>

SPD advises that anyone with surveillance cameras in the area of the 200 block of N. West Place is asked to contact, Detective R. Constantino at (785) 826-7210.

If you have any information concerning this incident or identification of the individual suspect, to call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS.

You can also make an online tip at: <a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#">https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#</a>. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000. Tipsters may also contact the Salina Police Department at (785) 826-7210, for&nbsp;case 2025-16952.

UPDATE: Salina Police still investigating home burglary 

Salina USD 305 will be holding a job fair on Thursday, July 24 on 1511 Gypsum Ave. from&nbsp;4:00 pm - 6:00 pm.

If you cannot attend the Job Fair, you can apply at: <a href="https://www.applitrack.com/usd305/onlineapp/">https://www.applitrack.com/usd305/onlineapp/</a>

Man arrested for an alleged assault on a motel employee in Salina

A Salina woman calls police after she was on the verge of a scam.&nbsp;

According to the Salina Police Department on Thursday, July 10th a 73-year old woman reported about an attempted scam.

She stated she was trying to access her bank account via iPad, but was not able to do so. She then called her bank and they told her the issue was probably due to 'pop-up ads' and to download Google Chrome onto her device. The woman then did what the bank told her and received a&nbsp;pop-up claiming to be from Apple that stated 'she had been hacked' and to 'call the attached phone number,' which she did.

Furthermore after the woman called the number, she got in touch with someone telling her that IP address had been 'hacked by people in other countries.' The caller requested she state her customer service number on the back of her bank debit card, and that they would contact them to connect them to her.

Subsequently, the woman then got in contact with a man who claimed 'to be with her bank.' According to police, the man was able to reveal her bank account information and told the woman there were 'several charges on her account' and a 'pre-approved loan up to $10,000.' The man then advised the woman he could 'stop the charges, but not the loan' which was supposedly going to used for the 'subscription of a website.'

The woman then ended the call with the man and she began to receive text messages stating the 'FDIC was trying to contact her, to answer their call and to not avoid the situation.' She then went to her bank and told bank employees what has happening and changed her account number with the bank.

Police stated the woman did not provide the scammers with any money. After further investigation, the phone number used by the scammers revealed they were associated with other similar scam calls throughout the country.&nbsp;

Police disclosed the scam number as (747) 320-9903.

The following is a statement from the Salina Police Department:&nbsp;

The Salina Police Department wants to remind everyone, if you are having issues with accounts when on-line, do not “click” on pop-ups advising they can assist with issues. Please reach out directly to your bank or check your bills and find the legitimate service numbers on how to contact your bank/credit card companies. Also, anytime you asked to take money and deposit it in a bit coin or purchase “gift cards” it is a scam. If you suspect a possible scam, contact your bank or local law enforcement who can provide you information and assistance.

Salina woman calls police after being on the verge of a scam

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Boyett, Shane Richard Michael

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Failure to appear; Interf. w/LEO; obstr./resist/oppose felony warrant

NAME:&nbsp;Carver, Thomas Jonathan

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Crim. damage to prop.;w/o consent &lt;$1K; Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving While Suspended; Violate offender reg. act; 1st conv.; person

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Contract housing

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Failure to appear

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact

NAME:&nbsp;Robertson, Catherine Annmarie

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Failure to appear; Probation Violation; Use/poss. drug paraphernalia/human body; Poss. of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Agg. assault; w/ deadly weapon; Crim. damage to prop.;w/o consent $1K-$25K; DUI; 1st conv.; comp. evidence of blood/breath .08+; Driving While Suspended

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation (2 requested charges); Failure to appear

Saline County Jail Bookings, July 11

The US National Weather Service Wichita, KS has announced that rain and storms are beginning to move east into central Kansas as of 9:45 pm, late Thursday evening.

According to the US National Weather Service Wichita, KS, the strongest storms will be capable of producing up to '60 mph winds and quarter size hail.

The National Weather Services advises to stay vigilant and have multiple ways to receive any updates or warnings.

Monitor local weather updates frequently in multiple ways by listening to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/nwr/">NOAA Weather Radio</a>, checking local news and emergency notifications. You can also stay informed by following Saline County and the National Weather Service on social media.

For the latest forecast updates, visit the National Weather Service Wichita office at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">https://www.weather.gov/ict/</a>. To check forecasts frequently, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">weather.gov</a>.&nbsp;

UPDATE: Storms moving towards Central Kansas late Thursday evening

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—Major League Baseball announced today that Royals right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Carlos Estévez&nbsp;has been added to the American League All-Star team. He will join&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;and&nbsp;Kris Bubic&nbsp;as Kansas City’s representatives at the All-Star Game on Tuesday, July 15 at Truist Park in Atlanta, Ga.

This marks Estévez’s second All-Star selection, following 2023 with the Angels.

Estévez, 32, has recorded 25 saves and a 2.03 ERA (9 ER in 40.0 IP) in 39 appearances with the Royals this season, after signing with Kansas City as a free agent on Jan. 31. His 25 saves are tied with&nbsp;Josh Hader&nbsp;for the American League lead and are just 2 behind&nbsp;Robert Suarez&nbsp;(27) for the Major League lead.

Estévez’s 25 saves are already tied for the most by a Royal before the All-Star break, with&nbsp;Jeff Montgomery&nbsp;(1993),&nbsp;Joakim Soria&nbsp;(2008, 2010) and&nbsp;Greg Holland&nbsp;(2014).

Estévez is 25 for 28 in save opportunities (89.3%) this season, and 2 of his 3 blown saves were in extra innings, when the Automatic Runner scored an unearned run. The other blown save was on April 22 vs. Colorado, a game the Royals won in 11 innings. The Royals are 41-0 this season when leading after the 8th inning and are one of only four teams without a loss when leading after the 8th.

Earlier this season, Estévez recorded his 100th career save, and he now has 107 saves, which are tied for the 11th most among active pitchers.

Carlos Estévez Added to 2025 All-Star Team

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -&nbsp;The NAIA's National Administrative Council (NAC) Executive Committee has approved Women's Flag Football as an invitational sport for the 2025-26 season-a significant milestone for collegiate flag football, which launched as an emerging sport in the NAIA in 2021.

"We're excited and encouraged by the continued, rapid growth of Women's Flag Football in the NAIA, and proud to be leading the way in that growth in the collegiate space," said Austin Bennett, NAIA Vice President of Championships. "Getting to invitational status is a big step in solidifying the sport on college campuses across the country."

The 2025-26 season will feature 35 programs competing in NAIA Women's Flag Football. Beginning in spring 2026, the postseason will shift to a qualification-based invitational tournament.

The NAC will begin developing the sport's competitive framework, including the format, date, and location of the inaugural NAIA Women's Flag Football Invitational.

NAIA NAC Executive Committee Approves Women’s Flag Football as Invitational Sport for 2025-26

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

The Sacred Heart football program finds itself in an interesting position ahead of the next KSHSAA reclassification cycle.

With 8-man eligibility increasing from an enrollment cap of 100 students to 110, the question of whether to remain in 1A or move to 8-man looms large over the community.

A survey conducted by Sacred Heart earlier this week sheds insight into the views of students, faculty, parents, and alumni on the issue ahead of what’s sure to be another challenging football season.

Since the 2014 season, the Knights have a combined record of 29-71, with a high watermark of 5-5 back in 2015.

In that 11-season span, Sacred Heart has utilized six different head coaches, including five in the last six seasons.

Like many other schools around the state, lowered participation has played a role in this decline and helps to make the case for making the move to 8-man football, but despite all that, it’s a move that many in Salina strongly oppose.

According to the survey conducted by Sacred Heart, 79% of parents (42 responses) and 89% of students (9 responses) oppose the move to 8-man.

This sentiment is in stark contrast to the alumni and faculty, who voiced support of the move by margins of 53% (30 responses) and 80% (10 responses) respectively.

Current players who support staying in a 1A 11-man format cited it as being the “traditional and correct form of football” and pointed out that 11-man football allows for deeper participation, more positions, and a better chance to specialize, while those opposed cited the move to 8-man as a “better fit for a small school with the potential to increase competitiveness.”

Parents who oppose the move to 8-man brought up Sacred Heart’s rich football tradition, and stated that a move like this could be construed as a weakness, while those in favor brought up issues like player safety, and highlighted that the choice to move back to 11-man in the future will always be there.

That tradition did see the Knights post a .500 or better season 16 times in the 17 years between 1992-2008, with a 10-1 finish in 1999, a 12-1 finish in 2002, and a 10-1 season in 2007.

On the other hand, the success of Ell-Saline and the improvement of Bennington during their time in 8-man have set a precedent for teams that make the move from traditional 11-man football.

Regardless of what the school and community decide, the Knights will remain in 1A 11-man and the NCAA for the upcoming 2025 season, where they will open a new campaign with Ellsworth on September 5th.

Sacred Heart ponders potential move to 8-man football

TOPEKA, Kan. - The KSHSAA State Basketball Tournament format and sites have been selected for the next two seasons. In 2026, the 1A Division I semifinals and finals will be played at United Wireless Arena in Dodge City. The 2A and 1A Division II semifinals and finals will be played at White Auditorium in Emporia while 3A and 4A semifinals and finals will be played at The Hutchinson Sports Arena at Hutchinson Community College. In the largest school classifications, 5A and 6A semifinals and finals will be played at Koch Arena at Wichita State University. This will mark the first time since 1953 when state championship games of multiple classes were played at the same place.&nbsp;

In 2027, both Divisions of 1A semifinals and finals will be played at Tony’s Pizza Events Center in Salina. Class 2A and Class 4A semifinals and finals will be played at Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan. The 3A semifinals and finals will be played at The Sports Arena at Hutchinson Community College. The 5A and 6A semifinals will be played at White Auditorium in Emporia.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://soundcloud.com/kshsaa-covered/state-basketball-format-change-discussed/s-mtMTeCFwSTy?utm_source=clipboard&amp;utm_medium=text&amp;utm_campaign=social_sharing&amp;si=e90a0c798e0e45afa89c0a88b29820f7" target="_blank">Listen to the companion podcast to this release – KSHSAA Covered – State Basketball Format Change</a>&nbsp;

“The KSHSAA is an association of member schools, and the school leaders have asked for class consolidation of championships.” said KSHSAA Executive Director Bill Faflick. “This new format will achieve that result and provide a greater focus on the student athletes competing at the highest level with four state title games being played consecutively on championship Saturday. This modification allows basketball to follow the recently implemented format for championship soccer and football championship games.&nbsp; With more titles being determined at one location, the atmosphere in the championship arenas will be at an all-time high.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The state tournament begins with the quarterfinal round which will be hosted at seven venues in five cities. To advance to the semifinals and finals sites, teams will need to win the state quarterfinal round games which will be played at United Wireless Arena, Tony’s Pizza Events &nbsp;Center in Salina, Mabee Arena at Kansas Wesleyan University, Koch Arena, Garvey Center at Friends University, White Auditorium, and the Kansas City Kansas Community College Fieldhouse in Kansas City.&nbsp;&nbsp;

2026 State Basketball Tournament Quarterfinal Schedule:&nbsp;

6A, 4A, 2A Girls, 5A, 3A, 1A Boys Quarterfinals – March 10 (United Wireless Arena, Koch Arena, Friends University, Tony’s Pizza Events Center, Kansas Wesleyan University, White Auditorium, KCKCC Fieldhouse)&nbsp;

5A, 3A, 1A Girls, 6A, 4A, 2A Boys Quarterfinals – March 11 (United Wireless Arena, Koch Arena, Friends University, Tony’s Pizza Events Center, Kansas Wesleyan University, White Auditorium, KCKCC Fieldhouse)&nbsp;

The quarterfinal round games are determined by proximity to the higher seed, not class. The highest four seeds of the state tournament will be placed as close to home as possible in the 28 quarterfinal round games across the state. &nbsp;If the distance from the lower seed is greater than 250 miles from where the game would be played near the higher seed, that game will be played at one of the quarterfinal sites centrally located. State brackets will not be reseeded after the state quarterfinals.&nbsp;

“With the top four seeds earning the right to play close to home, the quarterfinal rounds will provide a better environment and experience allowing more friends and family to attend the quarterfinal round,” said KSHSAA Assistant Executive Director and Basketball Administrator Kyle Doperalski.&nbsp; “This new format is a win for teams and school communities with an incredible atmosphere of four state championship games in the same venue on the same day.&nbsp; Fans and media along with non-advancing teams and coaches will have less decisions to make about what site to go to and watch the&nbsp;teams and players they want to see at the state tournament.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The dates of the quarterfinal games are March 10-11, 2026 and March 9-10, 2027.&nbsp;&nbsp;The dates of the semifinals and finals are March 12-14, 2026 and March 11-13, 2027.&nbsp;&nbsp;

State Basketball Sites and Format Set for 2026 and 2027

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez homered twice, Jac Caglianone hit the longest measured homer by a Royals rookie, and Kansas City beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 4-3 on Wednesday night to complete a three-game sweep.

Perez broke a 3-3 tie in the eighth inning with his longball off Isaac Mattson (2-1). He opened the scoring with a 444-foot shot to center in the second.

But the most impressive homer of the game belonged to Caglianone —&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MLB/status/1943109192639762689">a 466-foot, two-run drive</a>&nbsp;to center in the fourth against Bailey Falter. It was the longest homer by a Royals rookie since Statcast started tracking in 2015 and the fourth-longest by any Kansas City player at Kauffman Stadium.

The Royals have won six of seven overall. They did not have a multi-homer game this season before doing it Monday night against Pittsburgh, and now they've done it three games in a row. Kansas City hit nine homers in the series.

Pittsburgh fell to 0-6 on its nine-game trip ahead of the All-Star break after getting shut out in three straight games at Seattle.

Perez had his second multi-homer game of the season and 19th of his career, extending his franchise record.

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