The Christmas spirit is kicking into high gear this weekend as the 99 KG Shane McClintock TOYATHON returns with a lofty goal: collecting 2,500 toys in 25 hours for local children and area agencies.

The TOYATHON will be held at Salina Walmart, 2900 South Ninth Street, running continuously until Sunday at noon. The event kicks off at 11 a.m. on Saturday.&nbsp;

The countdown begins after McClintock and his team pitch a tent outside Walmart’s pharmacy entrance on Saturday morning. They’ll camp out for 25 hours straight, collecting donations. Every toy received will be counted hourly and loaded into a Doug Bradley Trucking semi-sleigh, ready for distribution.

New and unwrapped toys can be donated at both Walmart entrances. Salina Police Department officers and Saline County Sheriff’s Office deputies will assist in collecting donations. All types of toys are welcome, making it easy for community members to contribute.

Santa Claus will make a special appearance on Saturday from 4 to 5:30 p.m., handing out “Believe” bells to visiting children. To add to the excitement, McClintock has teased a PlayStation 5 giveaway, and<a href="https://www.facebook.com/99KGCountry"> more details are expected to be announced during the event</a>.

Once the event concludes, partner agencies such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, CAPS, Salvation Army, Ashby House, DVAC, and others will collect the toys on Monday for distribution.

Stay tuned for updates and live counts throughout the event on 99KG's social media <a href="https://www.facebook.com/99KGCountry">here.</a>&nbsp;

99 KG Shane McClintock TOYATHON sets goal to collect 2,500 toys in 25 hours this weekend

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The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Russell public water supply system located in Russell County.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

The advisory took effect on December 5 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 at the water treatment plant resulting in potential bacterial contamination in the water entering the distribution system.

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or KDHE announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind notice following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, please contact the Russell water system at 785-483-6311, 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/1/0100019397b4d143-42ac469b-f288-4811-960a-74dbeb12bc7e-000000/eBwXKiv_Gq5UJ3YIbxx16CLFSk_WDtXpoONKGWXNux8=382">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.

City of Russell under boil water advisory issued by KDHE

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

Mid-November marks the peak of the deer rut season, a time when deer are more active as they search for mates, increasing the likelihood of vehicle collisions. Since November 11, the Saline County Sheriff’s Office has responded to 11 deer-related crashes, with only one resulting in minor injuries, according to Saline County Sheriff's Office Operations Captain Jim Hughes.

It is important not to swerve to avoid hitting a deer, as that can result in a more serious crash, potentially involving other vehicles or objects off the road.

Drivers are advised to reduce speed in areas where deer are commonly seen, especially at dawn and dusk, and to use high beams when appropriate to improve visibility.

Always wear your seatbelt and ensure children are in appropriate safety seats. Use bright headlights when there is no oncoming traffic, and scan for the reflective eyes of deer along the roadway.

Saline Co. Sheriff's Office urges caution during deer season

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

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

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

Kansas Highway Patrol It’s a busy time for farmers in Kansas with fall harvest underway. The Kansas Highway Patrol would like to remind motorists to use more caution and patience when traveling around farm trucks, tractors, combines, and other implements.

“As the busy farming season is underway, each traveler in Kansas needs to be more aware of increased farm implement and truck traffic,” said Captain Candice Breshears. “In Kansas, we have many trucks exiting and entering the roadways at any given time. Traveling around these vehicles requires extra caution.”

Most farm equipment is not designed to travel at highway speeds and may only travel 15-25 mph. Farm equipment is often wider than the lane of traffic, so extra room should be allowed when sharing the road. Caution should be practiced on all roads, but especially on busy rural roads with unmarked intersections.

Don’t assume the farmer knows you’re there.

Although most farmers regularly check for vehicles behind them, the majority of their focus must be spent looking ahead to stay on the road and watch for oncoming traffic. Implements are very loud, hindering their ability to hear your vehicle.

Don’t pass unless you can see clearly ahead of both your vehicle and the equipment you are passing. If there are curves or hills blocking your view, wait until you can clearly visualize the area you are passing in. You should not pass in a designated “No Passing Zone,” even if you are stuck behind a farm vehicle. Do not pass if you are within 100 feet of any intersection, railroad grade crossing, bridge, elevated structure, or tunnel.

When a farm vehicle pulls to the right side of the road, it does not mean it is turning right or allowing you to pass.

Due to the size of some farm equipment, the farmer must execute wide left turns, so allow it plenty of room and time to turn and remain aware of any potential driveway or field they may be turning into.

Don’t assume that a farmer can move aside to let you pass. Shoulders may be soft, wet, or steep, which can cause the farm vehicle to tip, or the shoulder may not support the weight of a heavy farm vehicle. They understand you are being delayed and will move over at the first safe location available.

Think of the slow-moving vehicle emblem as a warning to adjust your speed.

When you see the slow-moving vehicle emblem, immediately slow down. While the emblems are visible from a long distance, it is difficult to judge the speed at which you are closing in on the vehicle, especially at night.

When you are not focused solely on the road, you increase your chances of a collision, especially if you should come upon a slow-moving farm vehicle.

KHP: Extra caution needed on Kansas roads during harvest

24/7 Travel Store is excited to kick off our 7th annual Food Bank Fill-Up campaign, “Driving Out Hunger. Together.” This month-long effort, which runs through September, will help local food banks across Kansas by matching donations up to $3,000 per store.

“At 24/7 Travel Store, giving back is a big part of who we are,” said Ted Augustine, President of 24/7 Travel Store. “Our Food Bank Fill-Up is a powerful way for us to team up with our customers and help those in need right here in our local communities. We’re grateful for the support we see each year and are proud to continue this tradition.”

The highlight of this year’s campaign is our “Hunger Action Day” event on Saturday, September 21, 2024. Food Bank representatives will be on-site at each of our stores, with times varying by location, to engage with customers and educate them on the available food bank services. They will also explain how the funds raised will be used and encourage individuals to give. On this day, we’ll also be accepting food donations in addition to monetary contributions.

The campaign has garnered strong support year after year, and Jackie Hynes, Director of Marketing at 24/7 Travel Store, is looking forward to this year’s efforts. "This will be my third year coordinating the Food Bank Fill-Up, and I’m continually inspired by the dedication of our team and the generosity of our community," Hynes said. "Through this campaign, I’ve had the opportunity to learn about the incredible work our Kansas food banks do, often relying solely on community support without access to state or grant funding. I’m proud of the efforts we all put in to support such a tremendous need and make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most."

We invite everyone to join us on September 21 and throughout the month to support this important cause. Whether by donating or simply spreading the word, every action counts. For more information, including event details and how to get involved, visit 24-7stores.com/news or check out our Facebook page.

Proudly Supporting These Kansas Food Banks Abilene Area Food &amp; Clothing Bank (Abilene) • Community Care Ministries (Maple Hill) • Genesis Food Pantry of Sherman County (Goodland) • Genesis Food Pantry of Thomas County (Colby) • McPherson County Food Bank (McPherson) • Russell County Food Pantry (Russell) • Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank (Salina) • Trego County Food Pantry (WaKeeney)

24/7 Travel Store launches 7th-annual food bank fill-up

Precipitation data courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/">CoCoRaHS</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">The National Weather Service</a>.

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

As of 08/01/2024 at 8:22 a.m.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/515dcf98-45ad-4e68-b2a2-ed8218a2c9e7">UPDATED: Thousands of Salinans left without power after severe thunderstorm</a>

CoCoRaHS 24-hour rain totals

The Salina Art Center Cinema is an independent art house cinema in the cultural heart of downtown Salina. It offers a wide variety of programming, including independent films, documentaries, foreign-language films, special screening events, Oscar shorts, film discussions, and Q&amp;A events with filmmakers.

The cinema,&nbsp;150 S Santa Fe Avenue, is open Friday through Wednesday at 6 p.m. each evening. You can catch a film on Saturdays &amp; Sundays at either 2 p.m. or 6 p.m. Tickets at the box office are $8 for SAC Members, $10 for Students &amp; Seniors, and General Admission is $12. Tickets are<a href="https://www.salinaartcenter.org/nowplaying"> available online</a> or at the box office.

Benji Kaplan could be described as “a real pain.” An irreverent, clownish, bro-tastic man-child, Benji thrives on offending others but somehow gets away with it through sheer charisma and charm. Played by Kieran Culkin of Succession, Benji's sharp wit and disregard for social niceties make him a modern-day Groucho Marx. His cousin David, portrayed by Jesse Eisenberg, is far more uptight—a perfect foil reminiscent of Zeppo Marx.

Their dynamic is put to the test when they embark on a “Holocaust tour” of Poland to honor their late grandmother. Eisenberg, who also wrote and directed the film, balances biting humor with poignant emotional moments as the cousins navigate personal and historical trauma.

The film also features compelling performances from Jennifer Grey as a recent divorcee, Will Sharpe as an overly intellectual Oxford scholar, and Kurt Egyiawan as a Rwandan genocide survivor who has converted to Judaism. Eisenberg’s nuanced exploration of grief, guilt, and reconciliation elevates A Real Pain beyond typical family dramas. Smartly written and superbly acted, this comedy-drama tackles themes of maturity, forgiveness, and emotional healing.

<a href="https://prod5.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=441203~324e763b-503c-450c-8c59-54007b851949&amp;epguid=94c71b64-6119-436a-8b50-a5728e102d44&amp;">For ticket information, click here.&nbsp;</a>

Description and Narration by David Cooper Sponsored by Wedel Financial

December 13 | 8:30 p.m. December 14 &amp; 15 | 10 a.m. &amp; 8:30 p.m.

Don’t miss this rare chance to see Tony Todd in his final leading role on the big screen. The Activated Man, a genre-bending supernatural thriller and emotional drama, has earned critical acclaim and over 40 festival awards.

The film features an ensemble cast of genre icons, including Tony Todd (Candyman), Kane Hodder (Friday the 13th), Sean Young (Blade Runner), Andrew Keegan (10 Things I Hate About You), and Vladimir Kulich (The 13th Warrior), alongside rising stars Jamie Costa and Ivana Rojas.

On Friday the 13th, the screening honors Kane Hodder’s legendary portrayal of Jason Voorhees while celebrating the film’s unique blend of heartfelt drama and spine-chilling horror.

Additional Screenings: Saturday and Sunday, December 14 &amp; 15, at 10 AM and 8:30 PM.

Plot Synopsis: A grieving man, haunted by the loss of his dog and visions of a shadowy figure, uncovers long-buried secrets that force him to confront his destiny through a series of harrowing events.

Salina Art Center Cinema presents: A Real Pain and The Activated Man

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.&nbsp;

Salina Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. To submit obituaries, email the obituary text and a photo of the deceased to admin@salinapost.com&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Roselawnburialandcremation">Roselawn Burial and Cremation Services Facebook Page</a>

Recent obituaries and service times

Tonight Increasing clouds, with a low around 23. East-northeast wind 10 to 13 mph. Friday There is a chance of drizzle after 3 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 49. Southeast wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Friday Night A 40% chance of rain or drizzle before midnight. Cloudy during the early evening, then gradual clearing, with a low of around 32. Southeast wind 9 to 14 mph, becoming west after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 22 mph. Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 48. West northwest wind 8 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph. Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 28. Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 57. Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low of around 36.&nbsp;&nbsp;

To view driving conditions in your area, check out the KanDrive road conditions map here.&nbsp;

NWS weekend weather forecast

Survey participants had the opportunity to provide feedback about district services, identify strengths and areas for improvement, share concerns and more. The community survey helped the district better understand community members’ perceptions of SPS.

“Salina&nbsp;Public&nbsp;Schools&nbsp;is a vital part of our community,” said Linn Exline, superintendent. “We use the community feedback to keep our district closely aligned with the expectations and values of those we serve.”

The results were shared at the December 10 Board of Education meeting. Jennifer Camien, SPS communications director, told board members that the Salina community regards SPS as an exemplary student resource and a source of pride for patrons.

Scoring highest on a grading scale were:

⦁ Quality of school facilities ⦁ Safety of students ⦁ Preparation of students for college, career/technical training or employment ⦁ Performance of teachers ⦁ District’s efforts to communicate with patrons

Additionally, a good curriculum and teachers topped the list of strengths based on an open-ended question

. “We are proud of our teachers’ dedication and commitment to our students,” said Exline. “Their work drives academic growth and creates a supportive environment where every student can thrive.”

Another open-ended question asked what needs improvement and the top answers were spending/budget, don’t know and communications. The survey results help the district refine its strategies and communication plans to better serve SPS students, families and the broader community.

Survey respondents were asked what the district’s priority should be.

⦁ Providing a good education. ⦁ Teaching life/practice skills. ⦁ Providing a safe environment for all

The survey revealed awareness of student opportunities such as CTE, clubs, athletics, fine arts and more. There was also good awareness of the special programs offered in elementary schools, such as libraries run by library media specialists and certified art teachers who teach art, PE and music classes.

“Being the largest district in the area, we offer a vast range of opportunities for students – there is something for everyone at SPS,” said Exline. “Our elementary students have art, physical education, science/social studies and library each week. The special programs are layered into our elementary curriculum.”&nbsp;

Other results included participants’ view of SPS as a workplace. Eighty-one percent indicated it was an excellent or good place to work. When asked what participants would like to hear more about from the school, the top answers were:

⦁ Career and technical education. ⦁ School safety measures. ⦁ Preparation for college, career, military, etc.

Survey results are being incorporated into district plans. The school safety information campaign continues, with a new video update planned for early 2025. Work on postsecondary success continues with the implementation of Visible Learning, an approach in which students see themselves as active learners eager to explore and grow.&nbsp;

“We appreciate everyone who took the time to participate,” said Exline. “Our&nbsp;schools&nbsp;reflect the power of community partnerships here in&nbsp;Salina. Together, we make SPS a great place to learn and work.”

*The community survey, administered by ExcellenceK12, a Kansas City-based market research firm. The community phone survey used a statistically reliable sample size, 300 randomly selected adults, who were head of household and balanced by geographic location.

SPS survey identifies strengths, areas of improvement

Get ready for a festive evening filled with Christmas cheer as Salina Mayor Bill Longbine invites the entire community to the Mayor’s Christmas Pancakes &amp; Pajama Party this Friday, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Salina Fieldhouse.

The holiday celebration promises fun for all ages. Attendees are encouraged to wear their coziest pajamas and bring their appetites for a night of Christmas-themed activities. 

Pancakes by <a href="https://www.chriscakes.com/">Chris Cakes</a>: Enjoy a delicious pancake dinner served up fresh. Hot Chocolate Station: Warm up with a festive cup of hot chocolate. Craft Stations: Create holiday-themed crafts perfect for the season.

Storytime: Listen to classic holiday stories read aloud.

Santa Visit: Meet Santa Claus and capture the holiday magic.

Mayor Longbine expressed his excitement about hosting the event.

 "Kids enjoy it, and it keeps growing and getting bigger and better every year," Mayor Longbine said. "My next-door neighbor can't wait to go. She's in third grade. We hope everyone enjoys the pancakes and Christmas cheer."

Where: Salina Fieldhouse,&nbsp;140 North Fifth Street, Salina

Admission: Free and open to the public

Salina Mayor’s Christmas Pancakes & Pajama Party set for Friday

Salina Police Department (SPD) officers are actively investigating the theft of a 2020 Hyundai Elantra reported stolen from an apartment complex parking lot at 730 Fairdale Road in Salina. According to SPD Captain James Feldman, the theft occurred between 9:30 p.m. on December 10 and 6:46 a.m. on December 11.

The victim, a 55-year-old Salina woman, discovered her vehicle missing early Wednesday morning. The stolen car is described as a white 2020 Hyundai Elantra with Kansas license plate 5413 AGU. No keys were left in the vehicle; at this time, SPD has no identified suspects.

The missing Hyundai Elantra is valued at approximately $24,000. SPD encourages residents to report any suspicious activity or potential sightings of the vehicle.

Anyone with information is urged to call the SPD non-emergency line at (785) 826-7210.

SPD investigating theft of 2020 Hyundai Elantra

Salina Police Department (SPD) officers and firefighters with Salina Fire responded to a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Ninth Street and Magnolia Road at approximately 2:15 p.m. on December 10.

SPD Captain James Feldman said the crash involved a Toyota Camry traveling north on Ninth Street and a 2016 Nissan Rogue turning east onto Magnolia Road. The Toyota Camry had a green light, while the Nissan Rogue had a flashing yellow turn signal but failed to yield, resulting in a collision.

The Nissan Rogue rolled upon impact, and both vehicles were towed from the scene. The driver of the Rogue, identified as John Avalos, 24, of Salina, was cited for failure to yield. The driver of the Toyota Camry was transported to the hospital with neck pain, while Avalos later went to the hospital on his own for evaluation.

The northbound traffic lane was temporarily closed, and traffic was diverted east onto Magnolia during the emergency response.

Salina Police Department officers and firefighters with Salina Fire are on the scene of a vehicle crash at the intersection of Ninth and Magnolia in Salina.

The northbound traffic lane was temporarily closed. Traffic was diverted east onto Magnolia.&nbsp;

Salina Post has contacted the Salina Police Department for additional details regarding the vehicle crash and is awaiting their response.

Few additional details, including injuries, are currently available. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

UPDATED: Driver cited for failure to yield in Ninth and Magnolia vehicle crash

By ARI LAZARUS Consumer Education Specialist, FTC&nbsp;&nbsp;

Scammers love a good disguise. One day they show up texting you about a&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/sites/www.consumer.ftc.gov/files/fedex_phishing_text_social_media_graphic_01142021.png">delivery you missed</a>, the next they say you need to sort an&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/sites/default/files/netflixscreenshot.jpg">issue with your Netflix account</a>. Here’s how to avoid these phishing scams.

<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams">Phishing emails and text messages</a>&nbsp;often tell a story to trick you into clicking on a link or opening an attachment. Maybe it’s an unexpected email or text message pretending to be from a company you know or trust, like a utility company asking you to make a payment. Or maybe it’s an unexpected party invitation that looks like it’s from a friend or family member.

Don’t click on links or download attachments in these messages. It might lead to a request for personal information, like your Social Security, credit card, or bank account number — and&nbsp;<a href="https://ftc.gov/idtheft">identity theft</a>. Or, the link or attachment could download harmful&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-remove-and-avoid-malware">malware</a>&nbsp;onto your device.

How can you spot these scams? If you get an email or text message that asks you to click on a link or open an attachment, ask yourself:&nbsp;Do I have an account with the company or know the person who contacted me?

If the answer is “No,”&nbsp;it’s likely a phishing scam. While real companies might communicate with you by email, legitimate companies won’t unexpectedly email or text with a link to update your payment or account information. For other signs of phishing, check out&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams#recognize">How to recognize phishing</a>.

If the answer is “Yes,”&nbsp;contact the company using a phone number or website you know is real —&nbsp;not&nbsp;the information in the email.&nbsp;Or contact your friend directly on a separate email or text string to confirm it’s really them. They’ll understand if you’re suspicious about that unexpected invitation to click a link.&nbsp;

Phishing scams can be hard to spot

Salina residents and those passing through town can enjoy a meal while giving back to the community on Thursday, December 12. Applebee’s locations, including the one in Salina, will donate 25% of proceeds from orders to The Salvation Army of Salina when customers mention the fundraiser or present the official flyer to their server.

The fundraiser will run all day, making breakfast, lunch, or dinner plans convenient. Proceeds from the event will help The Salvation Army continue supporting local families and individuals in need.

Dine at Applebee’s this Thursday and help make a difference in the Salina community.

To learn more about the Salina Salvation Army, <a href="https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/salina/">click here.</a>&nbsp;

Dine at Applebee's today to support Salina Salvation Army

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.

NAME:&nbsp;Jones,Tatyana Lynn REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;

Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500

NAME:&nbsp;Pacheco,Tolen Shane REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm

NAME:&nbsp;Rykiel,Joseph Jeffrey REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;

Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance

NAME:&nbsp;Troxel,Kayla Gene REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Probation Violation

Saline County Jail Bookings, Dec. 12

Middle Tennessee (7-3, 0-0 CUSA) vs. (13/12) Kansas State (10-1, 0-0 Big 12)

Saturday, December 14, 2024&nbsp; |&nbsp; 5 p.m. |&nbsp; Civic Arena (3,500)&nbsp; |&nbsp; St. Joseph, Missouri

<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com</a>

SERIES HISTORY vs. Middle Tennessee

• K-State leads the series between the schools, 2-1.

• Head coach Jeff Mittie is facing Middle Tennessee for the first time in his career.

• The Wildcats are 15-13 against current members of CUSA.

(13/12) K-State Squares Off with MTSU in Bill Snyder Classic

MANHATTAN, Kansas -&nbsp;(13/12) K-State (10-1) takes part in the second annual Bill Snyder Basketball Classic in St. Joseph, Missouri, as the Wildcats face Middle Tennessee (7-3) on Saturday evening at 5 p.m.

• Saturday’s game will air on ESPN+, as Kyle Schmidt (play-by-play) and Rob Edmisson (analyst) will have the call.

Five names, numbers or storylines about K-State women’s basketball

• K-State head coach Jeff Mittie collected the 200th win of his K-State tenure at Texas A&amp;M on Dec. 8. Mittie joins Deb Patterson (350) and Judy Akers (206) as the only K-State coaches to win 200 or more games with the Wildcats.

• K-State leads the Big 12 in seven categories: scoring offense (88.5 ppg), scoring margin (+38.18), field goal percentage (.514), field goal percentage defense (.316), assists per game (23.36), assist/turnover ratio (1.98), defensive rebounds per game (32.36) and defensive rebound percentage (.777).

• K-State leads the Big 12 and is second in the nation for assists per game (23.4). The Wildcats have registered an assist on 68.2 percent of its made field goals this season, which ranks 11th in the nation.

• Sophomore guard Taryn Sides has been on a hot streak from beyond the arc over the last five games, as she is shooting .686 (24-of-35) from long range. Sides has already established a career season-high for 3-point field goals made this season (33).

• With 38 points, senior guard Jaelyn Glenn would become the 46th player in program history to score 1,000 or more points during their time at K-State. Glenn would join current teammates Ayoka Lee (2,336 pts) and Serena Sundell (1,390 pts) on the list. When Glenn reaches the mark, she would be the fourth active player on the roster with 1,000 or more career points with Lee, Sundell and Temira Poindexter (1,673 pts; 1,560 at Tulsa).

• K-State has seen four different players register four or more made 3-point field goals in a game this season.

• The four players to card four or more makes are: Taryn Sides (3x), Temira Poindexter, Jaelyn Glenn, Zyanna Walker.

• A season ago, K-State topped out at three made 3-point field goals in a game by a player, with seven different players reaching the mark.

• For the season, K-State is averaging 8.8 three-point field goals made per game. The school record for 3-point field goals made per game in a season is 8.78 in the 2012-13 season.

2024-25 K-State Coach &amp; Player Milestones to Watch

• Needs seven wins to move into second on the K-State Women’s Basketball wins list (Judy Akers, 206)

• Needs four double-doubles to move into second in Big 12 history for career double-doubles

• Needs 222 rebounds to move into second in Big 12 history for career rebounds

• Needs 40 made free throws to set the school record for career free throws made

• Needs 85 points to reach 1,500 career points

• Needs 38 points to reach 1,000 career points

• Needs 70 steals to move into third on K-State career steals list

• Needs 11 rebounds to move into 28th on the K-State career rebounds list

• Middle Tennessee (7-3) has lost two of its last three games including a 65-52 loss at Belmont on Dec. 7.

• On the sideline, the Blue Raiders are led by 20th-year head coach Rick Insell. A 1977 graduate of Middle Tennessee, Insell has registered a record of 470-159 (.747) during his time in Murfreesboro.

• On the floor, Middle Tennessee is led by Ta’Mia Scott and Anastasiia Boldyreva.

• Scott, a junior guard from Clarksville, Tennessee, paces the Blue Raiders with 15.4 points per game while shooting .470 from the field. She has also hauled in 5.2 rebounds and dished out 2.1 assists. At Belmont, Scott tallied 15 points and four rebounds.

• Boldyreva, a 6’7” senior center from Moscow, Russia, is averaging 15.0 points and a team best 8.7 rebounds and 2.4 blocks.

• In the 57th year of women’s basketball at K-State, the Wildcats own a record of 248-103 (.707) in the month of December.

• Under head coach Jeff Mittie, K-State is 47-18 (.723) in the month of December.

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