SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Salina woman, arrested in January in connection with the death of a baby, is in custody in Wichita.

On Saturday police arrested 42-year-old Amanda Vinardi near Pawnee and Broadway in Wichita, according to Sedgwick County arrest records.&nbsp; Just after 6:30p.m. she was&nbsp; booked into the Sedgwick County jail, according to online jail records.&nbsp;

She walked away from a treatment facility earlier this month.&nbsp; She is currently being held on requested charges of drug possession, according to online jail records.

In January, Vinardi was arrested on requested charges of Aggravated endangering a child; Reckless &lt;18, Use/poss drug paraphernalia into human body and Possession of marijuana, according to jail records.

Saline County Sheriff's Deputies and law enforcement in Wichita are searching for a woman facing felony drug charges in Salina after she walked away from a court-ordered assessment center and treatment facility in Wichita before entering.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan, 42-year-old Amanda Vinardi was arrested in Wichita on Jan. 9 on a Saline County District Court warrant connected to a case investigated by the Salina Police Department. She was transported to Saline County Jail before being court-ordered to a facility in Wichita.&nbsp;

Vinardi was facing multiple charges, including: Possession of methamphetaminePossession of marijuanaPossession of drug paraphernaliaAggravated endangering a child Vinardi is now facing an additional charge of escape from custody. A warrant has been issued for her arrest, and Wichita Police Officers and Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office have been notified.

According to Saline County Sheriff's Office Capt. Fruits, Vinardi was transported to Miracles Inc. facility in Wichita,&nbsp;not Mirror as had been originally reported by Salina Post.

Capt. Fruits said that Vinardi was transported from the Saline County Jail to a treatment facility in Wichita on February 19 under a court order. On March 4, she failed to attend a required class, and staff later determined she had walked away from the facility.

Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to contact the Saline County Sheriff's Office at (785) 826-6500.

Salina woman who walked away from treatment facility is in custody

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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

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;Probation Violation, Failure to appear, Outside warrant/NCIC hit, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Poss of marijuana; 2 or more prior convictions and Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;De La Luz Hernandez, Juan Pedro

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit, Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity, No Proof Of Insurance and Operate a MV w/o a valid license

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Probation Violation, Driving While Suspended, Flee or attempt to elude;five or more moving violations, Interference with LEO; knowingly flee by means other than motor vehicle for felony case and Reckless Driving

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Galvan Andrade, Sergio Natividad

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Battery; Knowing/recklessly causing bodily harm, Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor, Improper driving on laned roadway and Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circ; misd

Saline County Jail Bookings, March 16

PAT MELGARES &nbsp;K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Nutrition, says Priscilla Brenes, is not just the food we eat.

Brenes, a K-State Research and Extension specialist in the Department of Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health, adds that eating healthfully also includes&nbsp;who&nbsp;you’re eating it with.

“When we eat with somebody else, that’s a connection,” Brenes said. “We might prepare food for somebody else. There’s a connection there, too.”

March is National Nutrition Month, sponsored annually by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. This year’s theme is ‘Food Connects Us.’

“Think about this: If you’re eating in front of the television, what type of connection are you making there?” Brenes said. “By contrast, if I’m eating with family or friends, you may be talking about what you did during the day, or talking about your goals. Maybe you’re talking about things that you want to accomplish.”

“Connecting with other people can help you be more mindful about the foods that you’re eating and how much you’re eating.”

Brenes said that even preparing meals, particularly when children are involved, builds connections around food that become family memories.

“Family meals are a great way to share with your children, or to teach them how to set the table, or the ingredients in the food that they are putting on the table,” she said. “There’s a family connection that starts forming there and those memories can bring good emotions when we are grown up.”

She adds: “I remember eating with my parents every Sunday after going to church or going to an event and having a conversation about what we learned. And you know, after that, the kids were in charge of cleaning the table. We learned to wash the dishes and how to share the work with our siblings.”

This month, Brenes encourages families to plan activities that capitalize on the ways that food connects people.

“Try to eat more meals together with your family,” she said. “If you like to cook…maybe one person in your family can pick one recipe per week, and you can all try that recipe. Or if you’re at school – maybe as the teacher – you can ask students to bring their favorite fruit or vegetable to class and talk about it.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Center for Nutrition Policy and Information publishes guidelines to help Americans eat a variety of foods in proper proportions.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.myplate.gov/">The campaign is called MyPlate</a>, which focuses on having one-half of the dinner plate being fruits and vegetables; one-fourth grains (preferably whole grains); and one-fourth protein.

More information about healthy eating also is available online from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.k-state.edu/fndh">K-State Department of Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health</a>.

Food Connects Us: K-State nutrition expert touts value of eating with others

KHP: I-70 in northwest Kansas is back open

&nbsp;By SALINA POST The Tony’s Pizza Events Center, located at 800 The Midway, Salina, was evacuated Saturday around 1 p.m. during the state basketball tournament after a fire alarm was triggered.

According to initial reports, event staff and emergency responders were assessing the situation, including checking the building’s electrical box. Spectators, players, and staff were temporarily moved outside as a precaution.

The alarm caused a delay in the third quarter of the Ottawa and Andale boys 4A third place game.

According to Battalion Chief Kirk Stover with the Salina Fire Department, the alarm was caused by a fire alarm system error. No flames or smoke were visible at the scene. No injuries have been reported, and officials are working to determine the caused the alarm malfunction.

&nbsp;4A Boys 3rd Place Final #1 Ottawa 61 #3 Andale 36

UPDATED: 4A State basketball tournament at Tony’s Pizza Events Center evacuated after fire alarm

SHERMAN COUNTY —Interstate 70 was still closed Saturday in both directions between Goodland and Colby, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation.&nbsp;

First responders are continuing to clear the roadway from a multi-vehicle crash on Friday due to the strong winds and blowing dirt. As many as eight people died in the crash, according to Trooper Tod Heilman with the Kansas Highway Patrol. The state established a special number for family members or loved ones that are involved in the crash. It is 785-827-4437.

On social media,&nbsp; Brian James, with Goodland Fire and EMS wrote, "I must say yesterday was the toughest and most emotional draining experience in my 22 years of being in the fire service."

Trying to manage multiple agencies, over thirty patients, triaging patients, working over 55 vehicles, fighting the wind with dirt so bad you can’t see over 50 to 100 feet, and trying to keep my crews and myself safe was just something to process." 

"I don’t think people realize the dedication these men and women give to make this community safe and secure. We had to think outside the box to get patients transported to hospitals in Goodland and Colby by using our fire department support vehicle with AEMT’s in the back to using patrol vehicles from Goodland Police Department, Sherman County Sheriff’s Office and Kansas Highway Patrol."

“I’m sorry for the lives lost in this incident, but I’m grateful for the ones we could save. Goodland and Brewster Fire have to go back out today to the crash site to cut deceased people out of their vehicles. Please be praying for my crews and all Sherman County first responders.”

"A huge thank you to the following agencies who worked this massive car pile up on I-70 at MM 28 to MM 29: Goodland Fire, Brewster Fire, Northwest Kansas Ambulance Service, Colby Fire Department, Goodland Police Department, Sherman County Sheriff’s Office, Kansas Highway Patrol, Thomas County EMS, Wallace County EMS, Cheyenne County EMS, and Sherman County Dispatch for getting me the resources I needed."

Authorities have not released names of the victims or additional details.

In response to Friday's multi-vehicle accident near Brewster, the Thomas County Commission declared a State of Local Emergency, according to a statement from Thomas County. This declaration will be formalized at the Commission meeting on Monday. County officials were actively coordinating resources to address the situation and ensure the safety of residents. A shelter was also set up through the American Red Cross at the Steve Lampe Athletic Center on the Colby Community College campus.

KHP: Eight dead from NW Kan. multi-vehicle crash in dust storm

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansaspublicradio.org/people/daniel-caudill">DANIEL CAUDILL</a> <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2025-03-11/could-kansas-eliminate-taxes-on-tips-it-might-depend-on-congress">Kansas News Service</a>

A bill in Kansas would eliminate state income taxes on tips for workers like food servers. But the idea’s fate in the state likely hinges on whether Congress acts.

WICHITA — It’s a busy Friday afternoon at The Monarch bar and restaurant in downtown Wichita, and food server Kelly Bonnell is right at home.

As she grabs a customer’s sandwich and fries from the kitchen, she greets people that come and go — all the while smiling and full of energy.

“I'm not sitting in a cubicle working on a computer. I'm impacting other people, and I'm having fun,” Bonnell said. “I genuinely enjoy it.”

Bonnell’s been serving for 10 years, first in Missouri and later in Wichita. She works at two restaurants in town and said she makes enough in tips to get her through school at Wichita State University.

But her first year in Kansas, Bonnell was hit by a tax surprise. Since the minimum wage for tipped workers in Kansas is lower than in Missouri, the taxes automatically taken out of her hourly wages at a previous job didn’t cover what she owed.

“And it was hard,” she said. “I did not have the expectation of needing this massive amount of money to pay that back.”

Bonnell is now setting aside part of her tips to cover taxes, but a bill in Kansas would potentially eliminate the need for that altogether. The bill would exempt up to $25,000 in a worker’s annual tips from state income tax.

The same idea has been floated by President Donald Trump’s administration at the federal level, but its fate in Congress is uncertain. That could ultimately decide whether the state does away with income taxes on tips, too.

Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson has said it’s a commonsense measure that won’t affect the state’s bottom line.

“If the federal government takes tax off tips, how crazy would it be for (them) to have to then maintain their tips and then pay Kansas tax on those?" Masterson said.

Republican Sen. Caryn Tyson chairs the Senate’s tax committee. She introduced the bill to cut taxes on tips.

“I support Kansans — hard-working Kansans keeping more of their own money,” she said. “The more they can keep in their pockets, the better off the state is.”

If federal lawmakers do move, Kansas lawmakers seem open to following their lead. But there are some people in Topeka who believe cutting taxes on tips is not enough.

Nathan Kessler is a tax policy adviser with Kansas Action for Children. He said the tax cut would only benefit a small portion of workers.

“If the goal is to put more money in the pockets of tipped workers there are much better ways to do that,” he said. “The most efficient would be to raise the minimum wage for those workers in Kansas.”

According to the Kansas Department of Labor, the average person waiting tables makes about $34,000&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/2024%20Edition%20Statewide.xlsx" target="_blank">per year</a>. That means they often have limited tax liability in the first place.

It's also sort of an open secret that many workers don’t report their tips when it comes to taxable income, or only report some of the money. But others, like Kelly at the Monarch, are compelled to report tips as proof of income for getting an apartment or a loan.

Kansas Democrats did introduce a bill that would raise the state minimum wage to $15 an hour. It would also raise the base rate for tipped workers from about $2 an hour to $7.50.

At this time, it doesn’t appear Republican leaders are going to let it advance. They argue many local restaurants could not afford a higher minimum wage.

But Democratic House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard said Republican leaders are playing political games by not considering an increase.

“The only people who are losing by them refusing to make this increase are Kansans,” he said.

U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall initially predicted Congress could pass a tax exemption on tips by June.

That could potentially delay action at the state level, as Kansas lawmakers are set to wrap up their session in April.

Could Kansas eliminate taxes on tips? It might depend on Congress

The <a href="https://sunflowersummer.org/.">Sunflower Summer program</a>, which provides free access to over 220 museums, zoos, and parks across Kansas, is at risk of being cut. Supporters are urging the public to take action to preserve its funding.

⦁ Issued 500,000 tickets to 150,000 families.

 ⦁ Boosted local economies, with 76% of participants buying meals and 20% booking overnight stays. 

⦁ Generated $5 in economic benefits for every $1 invested

Local agencies that participate in Sunflower Summer include but are not limited to:&nbsp;

Rolling Hills Zoo: A prominent wildlife facility offering diverse animal exhibits and educational programs.

Kenwood Cove Aquatic Park: A popular destination featuring water slides, pools, and family-friendly aquatic activities.&nbsp;

Smoky Hill Museum: A museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and culture of the region. ​

The Garage: An ever-changing collection of classic and custom cars, interactive exhibits, concessions, and a gift shop for your family to enjoy. It is a must-visit car museum in Salina, KS.

Sign the Petition: <a href="https://savesunflowersummer.org/">Save Sunflower Summer. </a>

Contact Your Legislators: <a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/">Find your state representative</a>

With funding decisions happening now, public support is crucial to keep this program alive.

Sunflower Summer Program at risk – how to help

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Ahlvers,Tina Marie REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Anguiano,Braden Lee REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor

NAME:&nbsp;Dionicio-Reyes,Christian Alberto REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Everett,Robert Thomas REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;

NAME:&nbsp;Lazo-Lozano,Jorge Luis REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;DUI; 3rd in 10y;comp evidence blood/breath .08+

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Matthews,Jeffery Wayne REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Nordahl,Tony Theodore REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Peterson,Michael Gale REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; &nbsp;

NAME:&nbsp;Simental-Ibarra,Armando REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear

Saline County Jail Bookings, March 15

A widespread power outage is affecting parts of Dickinson County, including Abilene and Solomon, according to an update from DSO Electric Cooperative.

In a social media post made shortly after 3 p.m., DSO Electric reported that both the Abilene and Solomon substations are down, leaving 100% of those connected to those substations without power. Crews have been dispatched to address the outage, but no estimated restoration time has been given.

Residents are urged to report any emergencies by calling 1-800-376-3533.

The outage comes as the region faces an extreme wildfire risk, with strong winds and dry conditions heightening the potential for fire spread. Officials are urging residents to use caution and avoid any activities that could spark a fire.

More updates will be provided as information becomes available.

DSO Electric Cooperative reporting large outage in Dickinson County

By NATE KING Salina Post

<a href="https://www.matchmadnessgscf.org/">The Greater Salina Community Foundation’s </a>14th annual Match Madness giving day is expected to raise more than $1 million in just one day, setting a new fundraising record for the event.

According to the <a href="https://www.matchmadnessgscf.org/">Match Madness website</a>, a total of more than $837,015.91 was donated through 3,213+ gifts, supporting 103 nonprofits, with an additional $300,000 in matching funds pushing the overall impact past the million-dollar mark.&nbsp;

The $837,015.91 raised—and still growing—marks a record-breaking total for Match Madness, surpassing the $721,494.60 pledged in 2024.

The day-long fundraiser, held at the Salina Fieldhouse on March 13, provided both immediate financial support and long-term stability for local charities. Donations made during Match Madness go into each nonprofit’s permanent endowed fund at the foundation, ensuring ongoing financial growth. At the same time, every gift earns a matching grant of up to 50%, giving organizations instant access to additional funds for urgent needs.

GSCF's annual Match Madness event continues to grow, drawing both longtime supporters and new donors to contribute to local nonprofits. 

GSCF President and Executive Director Jessica Martin said she was humbled by the community's overwhelming support and participation. 

“It’s just really humbling to think that we have that many people in our community that give at Match Madness every year, and then we still find a way to attract new donors," Martin said.&nbsp;“Every year I always wonder, ‘Okay, are we going to hit a limit?’ But the community always rises to the occasion to give what they can and make it a great day for everybody.”

Throughout the day, donors and community members interested in learning more about nonprofits and area agencies contributed in person at the Fieldhouse, online, and by mail, taking part in a community-driven effort that has grown significantly over the past 14 years. Martin noted that final totals could increase as additional mailed-in donations are processed.

"Right now the leaderboard is showing $830,000, but we’re probably going to be closer to $850,000 when it’s all said and done," Martin said. "We have employer matches to put in, and some other gifts that have come in the mail that we’re still adding. We also haven’t even put in the fifth-grade donations yet – that’s another $6,000!”

This year’s Match Madness also had a more spacious setup, which received positive feedback from not only the nonprofits but attendees as well. The additional space allowed for better interaction, especially with students who participated in the giving process.

“We had tremendous positive feedback, not only from the nonprofits but from the teachers and the public," Martin said. "Everybody had a full table, and they were able to bring so much more to share about their mission.”

Not only did nonprofits have more space, but the turf at the fieldhouse provided a more conversation-friendly environment.&nbsp;

“The turf helped absorb alot of the noise, and people could actually hear the questions and comments from the fifth graders and donors," Martin said.

Susan Hawksworth, director of the Smoky Hill Museum said she loved the new setup and appreciated having more room.

"The new big space was wonderful because we were able to, with the quieter noise and more space, have good conversations with people and the fifth graders who stopped by our booth," Hawksworth said.&nbsp;"People didn’t skip us because we were already talking to someone—they were able to come and wait without feeling rushed."

Match Madness has expanded significantly since its inception 14 years ago. Hawksworth talked about how the event has grown into a major area-wide community fundraiser not just specific to Salina.&nbsp;

"It’s amazing how it’s grown from just a small little event downtown to the fieldhouse and all the charities and nonprofits from our area can be part of it. It has brought more people and more in terms of giving. People want to be a part of Salina and to move Salina forward in the future," Hawksworth said.&nbsp;

For the third year in a row, all Saline County fifth graders participated in Match Madness, each receiving $10 to donate to the endowed fund of their favorite nonprofit—an amount that will be matched up to 50% by the Foundation.

Before the event, students learned about how endowments work and the importance of charitable giving. Upon arriving at the Salina Fieldhouse, they had the opportunity to visit 10-15 nonprofit booths, learning firsthand about the impact of each organization in the community. After gathering information, students filled out donation forms and selected which nonprofit would receive their $10 contribution, which, with the Foundation’s match, could grow to $15.

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