GEARY COUNTY - A six-year old girl was pronounced dead at a Geary County hospital in Junction City after Sheriff Deputies responded to a call of a possible drowning.

According to a Facebook post from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16rTRYkuqj/">Geary County&nbsp;Sheriff's Office</a>, on Monday, June 9th at 4:57 pm, deputies responded to the call of a possible drowning in Milford State Park at the swim beach by the Splashpad and South Boat Ramp.

It was reported that a six-year old girl was transported to Stormont Vail Flint Hills campus, (Junction City) where she was pronounced dead.&nbsp;

The Geary County Sheriff's Office stated that the incident is not believed to be criminal in nature.

Investigations Lt. Zachary, is requesting anyone who was present, may have witnessed the incident and/or may have any information to contact him at (785) 238-2261.

 Six year old girl drowns at Milford State Park

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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

Kansas Wesleyan added one of the biggest names in north-central Kansas education Tuesday, when the university announced that Linn Exline, former USD 305 superintendent, will lead KWU’s Department of Teacher Education.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Few people in Salina have ever been more dedicated to its education than Linn Exline,” said Dr. Matt Thompson, KWU president. “With more than three decades of experience, she knows the region, the challenges and the opportunities. In short, she has the knowledge, background and connections to help our students be ready for the classroom like few others could. We’re truly fortunate to have her become a Coyote.”&nbsp;

Exline is a Salina native with numerous KWU graduates in her family dating back multiple generations, including a grandmother, both parents and a sister. She spent more than six years as USD 305’s leader before leaving the position at the end of this past school year. She rose from an elementary teacher to elementary principal to high school principal before entering district administration in 2014, when she became executive director of school improvement. Exline held that post for five years before becoming superintendent.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prior to joining KWU, Exline spent her entire 33-year career at USD 305. Under her leadership, the district earned a Gold Medallion award (2023) and a Golden Achievement award (2024) from the National School Public Relations Association. During the past two years, she collaborated with a small group of other superintendents in the state to lead a statewide campaign to raise awareness about the work of public schools.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We believe that Linn’s knowledge of the region and her experience in the district will be invaluable to our students,” said Dr. Damon Kraft, KWU provost. “She has not only walked in the shoes of administration, but has taught and led at different grade levels, in different disciplines and at different schools. Her example of consistent, steady work and rising through the ranks is one our students can learn from. She has led in the very halls that we’re preparing our students for, and she will ensure that they are ready to lead there, as well.”&nbsp;

Exline has a variety of leadership experiences and remains a member of the Kansas Superintendents Advisory Council, the Kansas State Superintendent’s Association Legislative Committee and the Kansas/Missouri Superintendents Leadership Forum Board of Directors. She is a past member of the Kansas Association of School Boards Leadership for Tomorrow, as well as that group’s Business Operations and Leadership Development and the KSHSAA Superintendent’s Council.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Exline is also dedicated to the community and has served on numerous advisory councils, including those of the Saline County Health Department, Kansas State University Salina (Dean’s), and Salina Area Technical College’s Police and Fire Science. She graduated from Kansas State in 1992 with a degree in Elementary Education, and went on to earn her Master’s seven years later, also from Kansas State. She earned a District Leadership License from Emporia State in 2012.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It was a great honor to lead USD 305, but retiring from that role was never the end of my career,” said Exline. “I always knew I wanted to find a way to continue to give back. I believe the most important factor in education is the quality of the teacher at the front of the classroom. I have deep respect for KWU, with its influence in the community and importance in my family's history, so when the opportunity to grow the next generation of Coyote teachers became available, it was a perfect fit. I am excited to continue to influence the lives of students and to help make the educational system in north-central Kansas even better.”&nbsp;

Exline will begin her KWU role later this summer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information on Kansas Wesleyan, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kwu.edu/news">www.kwu.edu/news</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Former USD 305 Superintendent to lead Kansas Wesleyan’s Teacher Education Department

Growing concerns have sparked, after a possibility of "vandalism" may have taken place on a memorial garden in front of The Temple in Salina.

People across Salina have raised some concerns regarding possible "vandalistic actions" that may have occurred on the Marsha P. Johnson Memorial Garden in front of The Temple on Saturday, June 7th and Monday, June 9th.&nbsp;

According to Josh Gilmore of the Smoky Hill Equality Coalition, the memorial garden was installed on June 1st and it consists of 7 flags (2 original Pride flags, 2 Progressive flags, 1 Intersex Inclusive flag, 1&nbsp; Transgender flag and 1 Gay Men Pride flag) surrounding the garden. Gilmore stated that 5 of the 7 flags were possibly "stolen" and are currently missing. Those flags include 2 Original Pride flags, 2 Progressive flags and 1 Intersex Inclusive flag.

Gilmore stated that on Saturday afternoon a wedding was held at The Temple. Before the wedding, the memorial garden was intact and was not "possibly vandalized." After the wedding ceremony was finished, Gilmore arrived to The Temple at 6:30 pm and noticed soil from the memorial garden was spread or "possibly kicked" across the sidewalk.

Then again on Monday, Gilmore received a call from his secretary stating that the garden was "possibly vandalized" between the times of 4:00 pm and 9:00 pm. This time is when the 5 flags went missing.

Gilmore stated that no reports have been made to authorities, because there have been no eye-witness accounts or proof if this was in fact vandalism.

Concerns have sparked after a possibility of "vandalism" may have occured in front of The Temple

ELLSWORTH COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30a.m. Tuesday in Ellsworth.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Peterbilt semi driven by Justin C. Cook, 41, Lorraine, was eastbound on Kansas 140 just west of the Ellsworth/Saline County line.

The right front tire dropped off the roadway onto the shoulder as the driver to attempted to avoid a deer. The vehicle rolled onto its side.

EMS transported the driver to Salina Regional Health Center. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kan. man hospitalized in Salina after semi overturns

Four unidentified male suspects cooperate to steal around $3,000 worth of electrical equipment from Menards.

According to the Salina Police Department on Monday, June 9th at around 2:00 pm, employees from Menards (805 Virginia Ct.) contacted police regarding a theft.&nbsp;

It was reported that the day before on June 8th at about 2:15 pm, two male suspects had entered the store, picked up a Menards bucket and went over to the electrical aisle. Once they arrived in the electrical aisle, the two then loaded the bucket with different sized electrical breakers. Once they loaded the bucket, they then took the bucket of electrical breakers and placed it in a different aisle.

Around 15 minutes later, two different male suspects enter the store, grabbed a shopping cart and placed two backpacks in it. Afterwards, they walked over to the aisle where the former two suspects placed the bucket of electrical breakers and allegedly grabbed the breakers to put them in the backpacks.

Once they placed the breakers inside the backpacks, the two suspects then walked out of the store and left in grey pickup truck. The make and model of the truck was not given at this time.

Throughout the investigation, Salina Police have indicated that 62 electrical breakers were stolen.&nbsp;

Loss of value was listed at around $3,000.

Four unidentified male suspects cooperate to steal electrical equipment from Menards

SALINA—Law enforcement are investigating the report of a Shih Tzu which a family reported was missing from a home in the 1600 Block of Beverly in Salina, according to Salina Police Captain James Feldman.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The reporting party told police they had a delivery of food through Door Dash on June 7, and a surveillance camera shows the delivery person picking up the dog, but it does not show the person taking the dog.

 Officers have contacted Door Dash and are waiting for a response on the identity of the driver so police can interview them.&nbsp;

Police investigate if delivery driver took dog from Salina home

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.

*No image available for&nbsp;Bolen, Lucas Isiah Matthew*

NAME:&nbsp;Bolen, Lucas Isiah Matthew

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Use/poss. drug paraphernalia/human body Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circ.; felony; Outside warrant/NCIC hit; Poss. of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

*No image available for&nbsp;George, Anthony John David*

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Failure to appear; Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Driving While Suspended

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation;&nbsp;Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance;&nbsp;Failure to appear (2 counts)

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving While Suspended; Driving while habitual violator

Saline County Jail Bookings, June 10

Salina Post has made a correction regarding a fight that occurred between 20 - 30 people in Salina on Sunday, June 8th.&nbsp;

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD)&nbsp;on Sunday, June 8th between 8:40 pm and 11:00 pm, SPD was called to respond to a street fight that involved 20 - 30 people in the 1600 block of Beverly. SPD told Salina Post that before the fight, "a dispute occurred at a quinceanera in the 4-H building (Bob Flaherty Dr.) on Saturday, June 7th.”

However according to multiple secondary sources, this information was not correct. Secondary sources advised Salina Post that on Saturday, June 7th a dispute took place&nbsp;“outside the&nbsp;quinceanera parking lot and that those involved were not apart of the event.” It was also stated that security at the quinceanera handled the situation at the parking lot and nobody who attended the event was involved.

SPD however did state that a fight between 20 - 30 people did take place on the 1600 block of Beverly. Those involved in that fight, fought each other with&nbsp;weapons that included baseball bats, sticks, beer bottles and a pickaxe.&nbsp;It was reported that one unidentified Salina person was struck in the back of the head with a beer bottle. The person received medical treatment.

Multiple Salina authorities arrived to the scene and were able to break up the fightings.&nbsp;

Salina Police did not take anyone into custody and are currently investigating the incident. Police are also looking into surveillance video footage.

SPD has informed that if anyone has any information regarding this incident, to report it SPD at&nbsp;(785) 826-7210.

Salina Post is dedicated to giving factual and 100% accurate information to the public. Contact the Salina Post by email: admin@salinapost.com to confirm and/or correct any information regarding police and sheriff briefings.

CORRECTION: Dispute between numerous individuals outside a quinceanera contained by event security

Salina Police are currently investigating an incident, where an unknown male suspect fired a gunshot towards an occupied vehicle in the Pancho's drive-thru.&nbsp;

According to the Salina Police Department on Saturday, June 8th between 2:30 am - 3:10 am, a black Jeep SUV-type with multiple occupants was in front of an occupied white Camaro (with a temporary Texas tag) at the Pancho's drive-thru on&nbsp;3029 Riffel Dr. 

It was reported that an unknown black male walked out of the Jeep SUV and suddenly fired a gunshot towards the white Camaro. It was not determined whether the car or person driving the Camaro was struck by the gunshot.

Afterwards, the driver of the Camaro drove away and the Jeep then chased after them. No further events were reported at this time.

As the investigation is occuring, Salina Police did find a single .30 caliber casing on the ground of the drive-thru.

Unknown male suspect fires gunshot towards an occupied vehicle in the Pancho's drive-thru, investigation ongoing

Another antique engine is now on the rails in Abilene, ready for a new life on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

A renovated 1940 General Electric center cab diesel engine was unveiled Sunday at a special ceremony at Abilene’s Rock Island Depot, becoming the latest member of the heritage railroad’s lineup of antique locomotives.&nbsp;

Rebuilt after sitting idle in the Abilene railyard for over two decades, the 85 year-old engine has a compelling story that is primarily defined by a long career of service that resulted in the locomotive earning a very special name.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

&nbsp;“This engine was once a workhorse for the United States Army,” A&amp;SV President and General Manager Ross Boelling explained to a crowd of onlookers gathered to witness the dedication ceremony.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

“Considering its military background, we thought it appropriate to name the engine in honor of Abilene’s favorite son, Dwight Eisenhower. So, on this D-Day weekend, the locomotive is being christened ‘Ike’ in the General’s honor.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Adding to the significance of the christening, Mary Eisenhower of Abilene, President Eisenhower’s granddaughter, broke a bottle of champagne on the bow of the engine to the delight of the crowd.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

&nbsp;“Trains were always my grandfather’s mode of operation,” Eisenhower recalled in reminiscing about her famous ancestor’s military and Presidential years.&nbsp;“The fact that this was a World War II engine is really special. This would certainly get my grandfather’s attention and be exciting to him,” she told the gathering.Indeed, “Ike” had a remarkable career before finding its way to the A&amp;SV’s railyard. It was the sixth center cab engine&nbsp;to be manufactured by GE and today, it is the oldest surviving unit of its class. 

The Arkansas Valley Interurban Railway in Wichita purchased the engine in 1940 to haul passengers between Wichita and Hutchinson until the line shut down two years later.The locomotive was promptly acquired by the U.S. Army for wartime use and was shipped to San Bernadino, California, for use at the Norton Air Force Base. In 1969, the engine was transferred to the Hill Air Force Base in Ogden, Utah, for storage, until it was purchased the following year by Houston Track and Equipment in Texas. 

It was then acquired by Ideal Portland Cement in Superior, Nebraska, where it worked hauling rock trains between quarries and the company’s processing plant for several years.&nbsp;

In 1995, Dan Rohrback, a collector in Wichita, acquired the 44-ton engine from Ideal Cement. Needing a place to store the vehicle, Rohrback worked out an agreement with Joe Minick to store the engine in the A&amp;SV’s Abilene rail yard, with the understanding that the railroad could use the engine for excursion runs as needed. 

Rhorback later donated the engine, which was used sparingly until 2002, when sporadic problems forced the railroad to discontinue its use.&nbsp;Interest in restoring the engine began two years ago, as the A&amp;SV began to look for alternative sources of power to back up the railroad’s much-used Alco S-4 switch engine, which has powered most of the A&amp;SV’s trains since 1993. 

An examination by technical consultants from the Durango and Silverton in Colorado revealed that the locomotive’s engine could easily be repaired and placed in service. But the wheels, which were manufactured with the engine in 1940, were so badly worn beyond repair, and new ones would be required before the engine could be put into service. The A&amp;SV Board of Directors purchased new wheels last year and restoration work began.

“It was one step after another mechanically, then we started stripping paint off, last summer” said Dr. Steve Schwarting, coordinator of the restoration project.“By the time we got the old paint removed, it was too cold to apply new paint, so we turned out attention to the inside of the cab. When the weather got warmer, we were able to apply new paint and do cosmetic work.”The engine has been painted in maroon and gold, a color scheme that was adopted two years ago to signify the A&amp;SV’s Rock Island Railroad legacy. The engine is numbered 34 to signify Dwight Eisenhower’s status as the 34th&nbsp;President, and “I Like Ike” campaign button decals are featured on the cab doors. 

Adding to the locomotive’s historical significance, Schwarting’s crew mounted the type of horn that was used by the Rock Island’s famous passenger train, the&nbsp;Rocket.“We got a Leslie A200 air horn, the type that would have been used on many of the diesels that pulled Rock Island passenger trains,” said staff member Dylan Miller, who collects and assembles air horns and whistles as a hobby.Ike’s refurbishment is being paid for by a combination of grant monies, donations, and bank loans. The engine is expected to be in the A&amp;SV’s regular lineup in a few weeks, and its use will be alternated with the Alco diesel switch engine, which has been powering A&amp;SV trains since 1993.The significance of the engine’s name, its historical significance, and its modernized appearance were noted by comments from spectators.

&nbsp;“I was there when we got it and initially got it running,” said A&amp;SV founder Joe Minick, “it really looks nice.”As the person who donated the engine thirty years ago, Rohrback said seeing the newly named and painted engine was a special feeling.“I’m happy to see that after 30 years on the property here, it’s in good running condition with fresh paint. It really looks great. And I think it’s going to be a credit and of great value to the museum and the Abilene and Smoky Valley.”

For Mary Eisenhower, the engine’s restoration adds to its already special historical aura.“There’s a history lesson involved here. The generation of this engine and what it did during World War II is significant,” she said, “I think the soul of the war years and the legacy of the Greatest Generation that was fighting then and saved the world, that’s an important thing to remember with this engine’s restoration. Its soul has been restored.”

“Ike” engine debuts on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad 

A male suspect was arrested after assaulting a woman and resisting Salina officers.

According to the Salina Police Department on Friday, June 6th between 6:30 pm - 6:59 pm, officers were sent to the 600 block of Jameson in reference to a domestic disturbance. It was reported that a 30-year old male suspect identified as Devin Thurston, physically assaulted a 29-year old Salina female. The two are acquainted&nbsp;

Reportedly, Thurston assaulted the woman in which she received injuries to her neck, face and other parts of her body. Thurston also damaged a bathroom door, along with the victim's eyeglasses. Damaging costs were $200.

Officers then arrived to the home, but Thurston was not present. Moments later, Thurston was seen walking back to the residence and when police attempted to arrest him, he resisted. However, officers subdued Thurston and he was arrested.

Thurston was booked into the Saline County Jail for Aggravated Domestic Battery, Criminal Damage to Property and Interference with Law Enforcement.

It was not reported whether the victim received or needed medical treatment.

Male suspect arrested after assaulting a woman and resisting law enforcement 

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—Major League Baseball announced today that&nbsp;Vinnie Pasquantino&nbsp;has been named the American League Player of the Week presented by Chevrolet for the period of June 2-8. This is Pasquantino’s second career weekly honor, and first since Aug. 8-14, 2022. He is the Royals first AL Player of the Week winner this season, and first since&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;won twice last year, from May 20-26 and July 15-21.

Vinnie tied for the Major League lead last week in batting average (.500) and hits (13) with Athletics shortstop&nbsp;Jacob Wilson. He also tied four others for the most go-ahead RBI (3) in the AL, while ranking 2nd in total bases (20), 3rd in on-base percentage (.536) and OPS (1.305), tied for 4th in RBI (7) and 5th in slugging percentage (.769).

Pasquantino hit safely in all 6 games last week, including 4 multi-hit efforts. He drove in at least 1 run in 5 consecutive games from Tuesday-Saturday, including 2 RBI in&nbsp;back-to-back games in St. Louis on Tuesday and Game 1 of Thursday’s doubleheader. He homered in consecutive games Friday and Saturday at Rate Field in Chicago, including back-to-back home runs with&nbsp;Maikel Garcia&nbsp;on Friday night that flipped a 0-1 deficit into a 2-1 lead. Entering play this week, he carries both a 9-game hitting streak and a career-long 24-game on-base streak that dates back to May 12. Only Cleveland’s&nbsp;José Ramírez’s&nbsp;active 34-game on-base streak is longer.

He also played error-free defense, converting 40 total chances in 5 games at first base, including&nbsp;<a href="https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/sporty-videos?playId=fd6fdf5c-eec3-3c9e-942f-882ab0daff51&amp;videoType=AWAY" target="_blank">this web gem</a>&nbsp;in which he robbed former-Royal&nbsp;Andrew Benintendi&nbsp;of a base hit with a dive to his right, before spinning and firing a strike to&nbsp;Seth Lugo&nbsp;covering first base.

Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino named AL Player of the Week

CHICAGO (AP) — Jonathan India hit a tiebreaking double in Kansas City's two-run seventh inning, and the Royals beat the Chicago White Sox 7-5 on Sunday to avoid a series sweep.

Salvador Perez and Bobby Witt Jr. each hit a two-run homer for Kansas City, which had lost three of four. Jac Caglianone went 4 for 4 in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-jac-caglianone-7cf37caa0c43f86a4cfb462cb8689512">his sixth major league game</a>.

The Royals also got a big lift from Michael Lorenzen (4-6), who pitched six effective innings for his first win since April 29. The right-hander went 0-3 with a 6.89 ERA in his previous six starts.

Miguel Vargas homered and drove in three runs for Chicago, which had won three in a row, matching a season high.

Vargas drew a bases-loaded walk and Edgar Quero added an RBI single as the White Sox rallied for three runs in the ninth. But then Witt robbed Austin Slater of a run-scoring hit with a terrific diving catch at shortstop.

With two out and the bases loaded, Carlos Estévez earned his 19th save when he struck out Tim Elko swinging.

White Sox right-hander Mike Vasil allowed two runs and five hits over 3 1/3 innings in his first major league start.

Perez's fifth homer tied it at 2 in the fourth, and the Royals went ahead to stay in the seventh.

India drove in pinch-runner Drew Waters with a grounder down the third base line. After Witt popped out, Maikel Garcia made it 4-2 with an RBI single off Jordan Leasure.

India tacked on a run-scoring single in the ninth.

Tyler Alexander (3-6) took the loss in his first game with Chicago, allowing one run and five hits in three innings. The lefty&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/white-sox-mlb-5177234aef93c9fe46b1288e176e1ec2">signed a one-year deal</a>&nbsp;with the White Sox before the game.

The Royals finished with 16 hits, but they hit into five double plays.

Witt made it 7-2 when he connected for his eighth homer in the ninth against Bryse Wilson.

Caglianone went 2 for 21 in his first five games with Kansas City.

Royals: Following an off day, LHP Noah Cameron (2-1, 0.85 ERA) starts Tuesday night in the opener of a three-game series at home against the New York Yankees.

White Sox: RHP Shane Smith (2-3, 2.45 ERA) takes the mound Tuesday night at Houston. RHP Lance McCullers Jr. (1-1, 4.44) starts for the Astros.

⚾India hits a tiebreaking double as the Royals beat the White Sox

CHICAGO (AP) — Tim Elko hit a two-run homer, Adrian Houser pitched six strong innings and the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 4-1 on Saturday.

Chase Meidroth also went deep for the White Sox, who have won three straight for the second time this season.

Houser (2-1) gave up a run and six hits while striking out six and walking one. It was the 32-year-old right-hander's fourth quality start since signing with the White Sox on May 20.

Cam Booser and Steven Wilson each gave up a hit in a scoreless inning, and Dan Altavilla got the last three outs for his second career save — first since 2020 while pitching for Seattle.

Michael Wacha (3-5) allowed three runs and six hits in six innings. He walked one and struck out five.

Royals first baseman Vinny Pasquantino had was 3 for 3, including his 10th homer in the second inning for a 1-0 lead.

Elko's homer in the bottom of the second gave the White Sox a 2-1 lead. Meidroth pushed the advantage to two runs with his shot in the third, and Edgar Quero capped the scoring with a sacrifice fly in the eighth.

With runners on the corners and two outs in the eighth, Wilson struck out veteran catcher Salvador Pérez swinging to end the inning. Pérez struck out four times in four at-bats.

Other than Pasquantino, the rest of the Royals' lineup went 5 for 30 with nine strikeouts.

⚾ Elko hits 2-run HR as White Sox beat the Royals 

CHICAGO (AP) — Luis Robert Jr. drove in three runs in his return to the lineup, and the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 7-2 on Friday night.

Mike Tauchman homered to help the last-place White Sox to their third win in four games. Davis Martin struck out seven while pitching six innings of two-run ball.

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