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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

SALINA, Kan.&nbsp;—&nbsp;Four Coyotes earned world championship honors, fueling another excellent effort by Kansas Wesleyan’s DECA program at the organization’s annual international competition, held earlier this month in San Francisco.

Senior Clay Gagnon and sophomore Paige Chauncey prevailed in the Sports Marketing event, while freshmen Shelby Davidson and Delanie McMullen won the Event Planning category. Chauncey, Davidson and McMullen were competing at the international meet for the first time.

The quartet of world titles gave the Coyotes 15 in the past four years and marked the third year in a row Kansas Wesleyan had world champions in multiple events.

"I'm incredibly proud of the time and efforts students commit to DECA to be exceptional,” said Dr. Trish Petak, associate professor of business and accounting and the team’s coach. “The behind-the-scenes preparation is where their growth really happens, shaping them into confident presenters and strategic collaborators."&nbsp;

All told, 13 Coyotes competed in the April event and 12 advanced to the final round. Ten recorded top-10 results.

More than 1,300 students from more than 100 institutions competed, including those from Arizona State, Clemson, Pepperdine, North Carolina and UNLV.

A full capsule of KWU’s top-10 finishers appears below.

Paige Chauncey (sophomore) and Clay Gagnon (senior)&nbsp;– Sports Marketing

Shelby Davidson (freshman) and Delanie McMullen (freshman) – Event Planning

Oriana Botz (junior) and Tru Haesemeyer (junior) – Marketing Communications&nbsp;

Courtney Auld (sophomore) and Caleigh Evans (senior)&nbsp; – Entertainment Marketing

Tiana Marion (senior) and Madelene McVey (sophomore) – International Marketing

Quartet of Coyotes earn DECA world championships

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman continues a series on leadership and entrepreneurship. Kris Munsch discusses 'Where's My Bag of Money?"

🎤 Forward Ever: Part 3: Kris Munsch: 'Where's My Bag of Money?'

The Salina Area United Way’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program wrapped up another successful season, preparing 830 tax returns for local individuals and families — all at no cost to the clients.

From February 3 through April 3, VITA provided free, confidential tax preparation services for community members earning under $60,000 with simple returns. Of the 830 returns prepared, 770 have already been accepted by the IRS as of April 19, 2025. The service continues to be an essential support for working families, ensuring they receive the refunds and credits they deserve.

This year’s program was powered by the dedication of 34 IRS-certified volunteers, including 25 Kansas Wesleyan University students and 9 recurring community volunteers. Collectively, they contributed 1,488 volunteer hours to serve clients with professionalism and care. Through a partnership with KWU’s Business Class, students helped prepare 166 of the total returns and contributed 130 volunteer hours.

“Our volunteers are the heart of the VITA program,” said Levi Holcom, Finance Director for the Salina Area United Way. “They bring skill, care, and a true sense of service to the community. Whether they’ve returned for multiple seasons or joined us for the first time, their impact is incredible.”

Clients like Brenda and Bob B. expressed deep appreciation for the service.

“My husband and I appreciate so much your preparing our taxes and sending in the forms for us. VITA has been helping with our taxes for multiple years. We are so thankful for all of the VITA volunteers who gave their time to help individuals like us. We visited with the wonderful tax preparer and felt so taken care of," Brenda said.&nbsp;

Salina Area United Way also extends heartfelt thanks to local restaurants that donated meals to support volunteers throughout the season, including Blue Skye Brewery &amp; Eats, Martinelli's Little Italy, Chick-fil-A, La Curva Mexican Restaurant, Papa John's, Schlotzsky's, and Mokas Coffee &amp; Bistro. For more information or to get involved in future volunteer opportunities, visit unitedwaysalina.org or follow Salina Area United Way on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Salina Area United Way’s VITA program brings free tax prep to 800+ families

A Salina native and longtime educator will return to her hometown this weekend for a special poetry reading and historical presentation at Ad Astra Books and Coffee.

Dr. Jennifer Rodgers Gordon will present work from her collection, Sheheroes Unsung: Women of My Village, and debut a new piece titled Say Their Names: 100 Colored Citizens of Saline County on Saturday, April 26, at 3 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Ad Astra Books and Coffee is located at 135 N. Santa Fe Avenue in downtown Salina.

Gordon, who began writing poetry in high school more than 50 years ago, has had her work published in the Salina Journal and The Kindred Spirit. After decades working in education—including 23 years with Topeka Public Schools—she is now in a phase of renewed creative energy, participating in open mic events and preparing new projects.

Her upcoming work aims to highlight Black history in Kansas, particularly the untold stories of Salina’s African American residents. Her family research includes tracing her ancestry to Black Exodusters who migrated to Dunlap, Kansas, alongside Benjamin “Pap” Singleton.

Gordon holds advanced degrees in education and has raised seven children with her husband, Loring, during their 50 years of marriage. Her future plans include publishing children’s books and a comprehensive account of Black history in Salina.

Salina native to share poetry and Black history at Ad Astra event

On Tuesday, February 25, 2025, a subject entered Menard’s, 805 Virginia Court, Salina, Kansas, at about 9:00 a.m. The subject picked up numerous items to include a Noco battery charger, laser distance meter, 3 Dot laser self-level, a utility knife, 360 cross line laser, Worx Battery Charger, Worx battery, Hex impact set, Quadrant folding knife, Gerber folding knife, and a Buck Knife. The male then walked out of the business with&nbsp; the items totaling $875 without paying. The subject left the area in a silver 4 door sedan.

The subject returned to the store on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at about 8:00 a.m. The subject picked up a 3 Dot laser self-levels, a Universal laser receiver, a Bosch 18v batter and charger and leaves the store with paying. Total loss was valued at $581. The subject then leaves the area in a vehicle described as a late 90’s, early 2000’s silver Buick LeSabre.

If you have any information concerning this incident or identification of the individual involved, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS. You can also make an on—line 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, case 2025-1499 &amp; 2025-6112.

CRIMESTOPPERS: Repeat tool thief strikes Menards twice

Precipitation data courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://maps.cocorahs.org/">CoCoRaHS.</a>

Following precipitation events, Salina Post will update this page with precipitation totals.

CoCoRahs 24 hour rain totals

Salina Arts &amp; Humanities announced this week the details for the 49th <a href="https://www.riverfestival.com/">Smoky Hill River Festival</a>, happening June 12–15 in Oakdale Park.

The energetic and epic arts party returns in less than 50 days, featuring new food offerings, new activities for kids, new roving and mainstage entertainers, new art installations, and new artists selling their work in the Fine Arts and Craft Show.

Festival Medallion Quest kicks off May 21

The Festival Medallion Quest begins at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21 at the front steps of the Smoky Hill Museum. Salina Arts &amp; Humanities Commissioners will reveal the first clue for a $3,000 prize package.

Twice daily clues will be released at 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. until the Medallion is found.

Thursday night: Food, art, and a jam-packed night of music

Festival gates open at 4 p.m. Thursday, June 12, with 35 food booths, an Art Patron Party, and the legendary Festival Jam produced by S.M. Hanson Music.

The Festival Jam starts at 5:45 p.m. and rocks on for four hours with 17 bands taking the stage.

"For the last fourteen months, our staff has worked closely with committees, artists, City of Salina staff, and partner organizations to shape the 2025 Festival," says Anna Pauscher Morawitz, Operations &amp; Development Manager. "The Smoky Hill River Festival is more than an epic celebration of the arts; it’s a place where friendships are made, creativity thrives, and our community grows stronger through connection and shared creative expression. We look forward to seeing everyone in the park!"

The Festival’s entertainment lineup features some of the best talent from the region, nation, and beyond — offering a wide range of musical styles, from the familiar to the wildly unconventional.

"We have a mix of familiar faces and brand-new acts this year. The music will have something for everyone, from those who enjoy sitting and listening to those who love dancing along with the performers," says Sarah Keck, Entertainment Coordinator.

Full artist lineup available at <a href="https://www.riverfestival.com/">www.riverfestival.com</a>.

Visual artists from 21 states will sell, demonstrate, and install their work across the Festival grounds. It’s a once-a-year opportunity to purchase original artwork directly from over 125 visual artists — with 52 artists making their River Festival debut this year across the Fine Arts and Craft Show and Art Demonstration areas.

"This season always feels like the perfect storm: chaos, excitement, hard work, and, most importantly, abundant creativity," says Chrystal Hammerschmidt, Visual Arts Coordinator. "There is an undeniable energy that surrounds the work everyone is putting in and what comes to fruition in Oakdale Park."

Art Patron Program – support creativity, get special access

The Festival’s Art Patron Program offers art lovers and collectors special perks, including:

Artists seek out shows with strong community support and art patronage, and Salina delivers. Become an Art Patron by May 22 at <a href="https://www.riverfestival.com/patron/">https://www.riverfestival.com/patron/</a> or by calling 785-309-5770.

Festival-goers will encounter more than 20 outdoor, site-specific Art Installations around Oakdale Park, including:

Festival Print – Nick Perry’s bold new vision

The commissioned Festival Print is created by Nick Perry of Red Legger Studio (Lawrence, KS). His foundation in drawing and printmaking leads to a semi-psychedelic, illustrative style of pop surrealism.

Donate $100 or more and pick up your exclusive print at the Salina Arts &amp; Humanities office before June 10.

Festival T-shirt – fresh, energetic design

This year’s t-shirt features original artwork by Paul Punzo of Lawrence, KS. His design combines rich red brushstrokes with stencil and relief cut printmaking to form a vivid Festival landscape inside the shape of a guitar.

Artyopolis – Fun for kids and kids at heart

The Artyopolis area is a festival in itself! It features:

First Treasures returns Saturday, June 14! At this special tent, kids ages 4–13 can shop from hundreds of items priced from $1 to $5, provided by exhibiting artists.

“Kids will get to experience hands-on activities in Creation Crossing while having their own entertainment at Arty’s Stage, with performers like Duke Otherwise and Count Everyone. I also love supporting young collectors with purchasing their art in First Treasures on the Saturday of Festival,” said Allie Fischer, Artyopolis Coordinator. 


Festival food – nostalgic and new favorites

Taste buds, get ready! This year’s new food vendors bring incredible new options:

"I’m excited about the Korean corn dogs, birria tacos, and ice cream nachos! There’s truly something for everyone," says Maira Mota, Food Coordinator.

See the full food vendor list at <a href="https://www.riverfestival.com/">www.riverfestival.com</a>.

The Festival depends on approximately 2,000 volunteers each year! Help with:

Sign up online at <a href="https://salinaareaunitedway.volunteerlocal.com/volunteer/?id=87807">https://salinaareaunitedway.volunteerlocal.com/volunteer/?id=87807</a>.

On Saturday morning, June 14, the Salina Regional Health Center hosts the 44th Smoky Hill River Run including:

Register now at <a href="https://srhc.com/riverrun/">https://srhc.com/riverrun/</a>.

Sunday at the Festival – Chill out and hunt for "seeds"

 The “seeds” are handmade by Margaret Craig, a Festival Installation artist, and will be released into the wild on Sunday, throughout the day, but you will be able to see them in full bloom near the demonstration area Friday and Saturday at the “Setting Seed” installation near the art demonstration area. 

Find participating retailers for advance wristbands starting May 1 at <a href="https://www.riverfestival.com/participating-retailers/">www.riverfestival.com/participating-retailers</a>.

For more details, volunteer info, entertainment schedules, and more, visit <a href="https://www.riverfestival.com/">www.riverfestival.com</a> or call 785-309-5770.

Salina Arts and Humanities announces Smoky Hill River Festival details

Dozens of Kansans gathered on Wednesday, April 23, at the Salina Public Library for a Community Conversation on Medicaid hosted by the Alliance for a Healthy Kansas. The event gave residents the opportunity to voice their concerns over proposed federal Medicaid cuts that could impact hundreds of thousands of Kansans who get care through the state’s Medicaid program, KanCare. The message was clear: Kansas lawmakers should protect and expand access to Medicaid in Kansas.

The one-hour forum drew a wide audience, including Medicaid recipients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and advocates, who shared powerful stories about the critical role Medicaid plays in their lives. Members of Kansas’s 1st Congressional district were invited to attend in-person or through the live stream on Facebook. Attendees urged Senator Jerry Moran, Senator Roger Marshall, and Representative Tracey Mann to oppose proposed Medicaid cuts and expand access to the program for more Kansans.

Cori Sherman North&nbsp;told the story of how access to Medicaid successfully intervened in her family’s life. Her son fell into a severe depression upon entering high school, and began receiving Medicaid through the Serious Emotional Disturbance (SED) Medicaid waiver. This waiver provides intensive support to children experiencing some mental health conditions to allow them to receive support while continuing to live at home and in their communities.

“I wasn’t going to tell our little Medicaid story, because I did think it was kind of little, but then I realized it’s a real success. It’s a successful Medicaid intervention that helped out,” Sherman North said. “[The SED waiver] took care of all his medical bills, all the wild medications he was on, then finally that spring we were able to be referred down to [Wichita], so he was helped.”

Access to Medicaid also helped Sherman North’s son when he broke his knee playing basketball and had to be taken by ambulance to Wichita.

“We wouldn’t have been able to manage financially through all that because we also had other things going on in our family,” she said. “So without Medicaid, I don’t think we would have made it.”

For&nbsp;John Blanchard, protecting and expanding access to Medicaid is critical for communities like Salina.

“We don’t have an extremely wealthy community. We have a lot of people that are operating in the margins all the time. They’re living paycheck to paycheck,” he said. “They need good quality health care and they can’t afford it. And they keep trying to get ahead and they can’t get there.”

He spoke directly to Kansas lawmakers and urged them to think about the legacy they want to leave behind when they are no longer in office.

“We can do difficult things, and we need you guys to have the courage to do these things,” he said. “Your terms are going to expire quicker than you can imagine, and I hope you don’t, at the end of those terms, sit back and go ‘Boy, I wish I would have fought for people, because that could really have meant something..’ Do something good for the people that really need it.”

Though only a member of Rep. Tracey Mann’s staff attended the meeting in person, the event was&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/share/v/16KwxW4FMP/">livestreamed on the Alliance’s Facebook page</a>, and a recording is being sent to their offices to ensure Kansas voices are heard before details of the cuts are decided in Washington, DC.

“In Kansas, we don’t have a lot of optional services that are covered under Medicaid,” said&nbsp;April Holman, Executive Director of the Alliance for a Healthy Kansas. “So if we have fewer Medicaid dollars coming into the state, our legislature would need to make decisions about how they would fund the difference. And we could end up in a situation where they have to cut the optional waiver services, which help people who have disabilities stay in their homes and help seniors who need care who are not yet ready to go into nursing homes.”

Other comments at the event included concerns about how low-income children and children with disabilities would receive care; concerns about the ability to receive timely care if rural hospitals lose Medicaid as a funding stream; and providers worried that kids with mental health and substance abuse issues will die waiting for access to behavioral health care.

For&nbsp;Rev. Dr. Mandy Todd, pastor of Messiah Lutheran Church in Lindsborg, supporting Medicaid is more than just a conviction of her faith. It’s based on personal experience.

“While I was working and serving the state of Colorado, the global pandemic hit and I lost my full-time job with full-time benefits. I was forced to ‘gig’ my way to survival and worked three jobs…It was a lot, especially for a parent of two young children,” she said. “The reason my children are healthy and happy today is because we had access to expanded Medicaid in the state of Colorado. Had I stayed in Kansas through the pandemic, my family would not have had health care.”

The Salina meeting was one of a series of events this week throughout the state raising the importance of Medicaid in each Congressional district. Similar events took place in Topeka (April 21), Wichita (April 22), and Kansas City (April 24). Details about those meetings can be found at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://expandkancare.com/events/">ExpandKanCare.com/events/</a>.

Members of Congress return to Washington, DC, on April 28 to resume budget negotiations. The U.S. House and Senate have proposed up to $880 billion to be cut from Medicaid to pay for tax cuts. When Congress resumes, lawmakers are expected to begin deciding the details of proposed budget cuts.

Kansans are encouraged to contact their representatives and urge them to reject budget cuts and protect Medicaid coverage.

Kansans demand leaders protect, expand Medicaid at Salina community conversation

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(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Probation Violation and Viol protection order; Abuse order

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Hall, Fredrick Christopher

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Failure to appear

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;DUI; 2nd conv; comp evidence of blood/breath .08+

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Probation Violation, Interference with LEO; knowingly flee by means other than motor vehicle for felony case, Assault of LEO; Properly identified on duty, Interference with LEO; knowingly flee by means other than motor vehicle for felony case, Flee or attempt to elude; drive into opposing lane, Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warrant, Reckless Driving, Speeding; maximum limits. Disobey traffic control device and Fail to yield at stop or yield sign

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warrant

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Petersen-Beard, Nina Anastasia

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Probation Violation, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, DUI; 3rd in 10y;comp evidence blood/breath .08+, Failure to stop at accident; Injury or damage over $1000 and Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Contempt of Court; Direct

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):  Theft of prop/services;Value $1,500 to $25,000

Saline County Jail Bookings, April 25

TOPEKA—Governor Laura Kelly on Thursday signed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kslegislature.gov%2Fli%2Fb2025_26%2Fmeasures%2Fhb2045%2F/1/0101019668fa2474-3e5847a5-d518-4d43-b55f-5a42e32ba380-000000/9ISwdF7PxGJMfE9b6L394_InVJOVFaA2C6GD5p5sSMU=402">House&nbsp;Bill&nbsp;2045</a>, a bipartisan compromise to expand access to child care services and consolidate existing early childhood programs into the Office of Early Childhood. The bill was crafted through negotiations with a bipartisan group of Kansas legislators from both the Kansas House of Representatives and the Kansas Senate. House Bill 2045 received widespread bipartisan support, passing the Kansas House of Representatives 99-23 and the Kansas Senate 30-10. This landmark piece of legislation is the most consequential early childhood education and care legislation enacted in Kansas in 15 years. Governor Kelly signed the bill into law during a ceremony at the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center in Topeka.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“House Bill 2045 is a win for businesses, early childhood providers, and most importantly, Kansas children and families,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;said.&nbsp;“Now, our early childhood system will no longer be bogged down by inefficiencies and bureaucratic red tape. Through collaboration with the Legislature, this bill will streamline access to high-quality early childhood services and make Kansas the premier place to raise a family while ensuring the highest standards for child well-being and safety.”&nbsp;

Under this legislation, nearly 20 existing state programs serving young children and families will be consolidated into the Office of Early Childhood. The office, which will officially open in mid-2026, will house child care licensing, child care subsidy, home visitation programs, and the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund. The office will be led by a director appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Kansas Senate. The office will be responsible for the state’s early childhood system, serve communities and stakeholders by developing a statewide strategy for expanding access to child care, and administer services currently spread throughout various state agencies.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Office of Early Childhood will be staffed by current state employees who will be retained in their existing roles and funded through existing state resources, as the office’s functions already exist across state government. The governor will appoint a transition director and interagency transition team to oversee the process of consolidating programs into the office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Kansas has a very urgent need for more, affordable child care and this legislation hits directly at bottlenecks in the system that, quite frankly, suppress availability and drive up cost,”&nbsp;said Speaker of the House of Representatives Dan Hawkins. “These are real solutions that will immediately increase slots by reducing overly burdensome regulations, streamlining support services for providers and families, and addressing underserved and rural shortages by increasing flexibility for home-based providers. I especially want to thank House Commerce Chair Sean Tarwater, Vice Chair Adam Turk, and Representative Laura Williams for their tireless work to solve these issues without growing government in the process.”&nbsp;

House Bill 2045 also streamlines early childhood licensure processes and regulatory structures to eliminate barriers to becoming a licensed child care provider and support the early childhood workforce. The bill sets standards for various career pathways and qualification requirements for various early childhood educator positions. The bill also authorizes the creation of pilot programs for developing new licensure categories and eliminates certain licensure fees currently charged to providers, allowing for more child care businesses to open and slots to be created.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“With over half of Kansas families struggling to find affordable child care, the child care crisis impacts children, stresses parents, and slows our economy,”&nbsp;said Senate Democratic Leader Dinah Sykes.&nbsp;“Establishing the Kansas Office of Early Childhood will help parents and children by eliminating the red tape that makes it difficult for families to access services.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

This legislation implements the recommendations of the Early Childhood Transition Task Force, which Governor Kelly established in January 2023 via&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.governor.ks.gov%2FHome%2FComponents%2FNews%2FNews%2F142%2F57%3Ffsiteid=1%26arch=1%23!%2F/1/0101019668fa2474-3e5847a5-d518-4d43-b55f-5a42e32ba380-000000/XegYpa6HqXApXFg0b0bYRV3qIWD-nVKLR_S1nvXM2RA=402">Executive Order 23-01</a>, the first of her second term. The task force, comprised of bipartisan leaders and experts, spent a year reviewing Kansas’ current early childhood system and developed this consolidation structure. Through collaboration between the Governor’s Office and legislative leaders, similar legislation was consideration during the 2024 Legislative Session but was not enacted.&nbsp;

Through partnership with the Legislature, Governor Kelly has previously signed legislation to cut child care costs for working families through $18 million in expanded tax credits, allow for more businesses to access tax credits for providing child care to their employees, and expand the Imagination Library of Kansas to all children between 0-5 years of age. Today, Kansas has more licensed child care slots than ever before, including 7,700 new licensed child care slots since Governor Kelly took office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. Kelly signs landmark bipartisan early childhood legislation 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Seth Lugo threw eight scoreless innings as the Kansas City Royals defeated the Houston Astros 2-0 Friday night.

The Royals have now won five straight games after snapping a six-game losing streak.

Coming off a double-header on Thursday, the Royals needed Lugo to go deep in the game, and he delivered. Lugo (2-3) yielded three hits with a walk and eight strikeouts. Lucas Erceg, who got his first save, pitched a 1-2-3 ninth.

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