Two juveniles were taken to the Juvenile Detention Center after allegedly stealing over $400 worth of items from a convenience store.

According to the Salina Police Department, earlier this Wednesday morning at around 1:30 am, an individual called police after noticing the front door of Rod's 2 convenience store (1339 N. 9th) was allegedly smashed. Officers arrived to the scene and determined that a burglary had occurred.

Police stated that over $400 worth of vapes had been stolen. Throughout the investigation, officers determined that two male juveniles potentially committed the burglary.&nbsp;

Subsequently, officers located the juvenile suspects aged 15 and 17, in the 100 block of W. Otis. The vapes stolen were found and recovered among the juveniles.

Both suspects were arrested and taken into custody for requested charges of Burglary, Theft and Damage to Property. The suspects were transferred to the Juvenile Detention Center in Junction City.

Juveniles arrested after allegedly stealing over $400 worth of items from a convenience store

Delivered to your virtual porch during the noon hour every Monday through Friday — on time and free :-)

📨 Sign up today for Salina Post's Noon News Update!

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

In farm states like Kansas, consumers are never really that far from the fields where many of their foods are grown and raised.

That’s a delicious benefit that many take advantage of at weekend’ farmer’s markets, but Amanda Lindahl says the local food system reaches many more parts of our daily lives than folks sometimes know.

“Traditionally, people think of local food being found in a farmer’s market, but you also find it in your local grocery store,” said Lindahl, the program coordinator with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/kansaslocalfoods">Kansas Local Food Systems at Kansas State University</a>.

The term, ‘local food,’ generally refers to a system in which food is consumed within a short distance of where it was grown or processed. Often, local hospitals, food pantries, schools, restaurants and others purchase food locally that is then served to their customers.

“These are ways that we can keep our food dollars local,” Lindahl said. “Being able to sell in our communities is a great way to conserve that value.”

“In addition,” she adds, “when we’re able to access food in a smaller radius area, we understand that it’s generally going to be a healthier product. It’s going to have more nutrition because it doesn’t have those ‘food miles’ on it, which is another component that we are able to avoid when our food doesn’t have to travel as far.”

Lindahl said many of the issues related to selling foods locally will be presented during the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/kansaslocalfoods/local-food-summit">Kansas Local Foods Summit</a>, which will be held July 29-30 at Kansas Wesleyan University in Salina.

This is the second year of the Summit, which is open to anyone wishing to learn more about how local foods can benefit communities around the state.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/kansaslocalfoods/local-food-summit/registration.html">Registration is available online</a>&nbsp;and costs $40 through July 18, and $50 afterwards.

“We love the opportunity to bring together our communities (and) to hear from one another as K-State extension staff that have been supporting local food systems,” Lindahl said. “We think that extension is a good source of information for local food systems, but learning directly from peers and other business owners is really the best way to be inspired as well as feel like you can learn the skills and tools to make something work.”

Lindahl said the theme for this year’s conference is ‘Painting a Vibrant Future,’ which points to the goal of making local systems stronger.

The Tuesday&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/kansaslocalfoods/local-food-summit/agenda.html">summit agenda</a>&nbsp;includes such topics as grant writing, creating a Farm to Plate initiative, growing Farmer-to-Farmer communities, and Salina food system tours.

Wednesday will be a full day of networking in breakout sessions, building collaborative relationships, and the keynote speaker, Dawn Thilmany from Colorado State University speaking on Navigating Local and Regional Food Systems in Dynamic Times.

More information is available online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.ksre.k-state.edu/kansaslocalfoods/local-food-summit">www.ksre.k-state.edu/kansaslocalfoods/local-food-summit</a>.

“We’re excited to be bringing in some experts and others who have been doing this food systems work for a while and have built capacity in their communities,” Lindahl said. “We’re also looking forward to seeing how we can grow on their momentum and expand this work even more in Kansas.”

Kansas local food summit set for July 29-30 in Salina

Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for available talent to take part in this month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 16.

“Over the last six years, Kansas has become a hot spot for new and expanding businesses — and that means our career opportunities are not just growing, they’re booming,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “It’s our diligent and hardworking workforce that draws notable companies to Kansas — and now, with a wide array of opportunities across the state, there is a career path for every Kansan.”

The Virtual Job Fair format allows anyone searching for a new job to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.

This month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as they might be asked to engage in an interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodations by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.

Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fapp.premiervirtual.com%2Fevents%2Fb4daf857-385f-4588-bff0-3708ada08f3d%2Fkansasworks-virtual-statewide-job-fair-july-16th,-2025%2Fattendee/1/01010197f0a98fad-c7561ef0-cd7f-4268-a1dc-d633499d42d7-000000/jFUPcMCfVsGR6ay6kF1Pu76wE1aN0Du-X0ORkvhdUY0=413">here</a>.

KANSASWORKS links businesses, job candidates and educational institutions to ensure that employers can find skilled workers. Services are provided to employers and job candidates through the state’s 27 workforce centers, online or virtual services&nbsp;KANSASWORKS is completely free for all Kansans to use. Learn more at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.kansasworks.com%252F%26data=04%257C01%257CKirstin.Hadel%2540ks.gov%257C1eec5adebb104b4856be08d9b9ae7699%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C637744981296484235%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C3000%26sdata=rctWTuS7I483PsTHn%252FzpM5oZjOH3SEJbyQqtVHPJaKA%253D%26reserved=0/1/01010197f0a98fad-c7561ef0-cd7f-4268-a1dc-d633499d42d7-000000/yqbBDVJ5r0qXRTsHb_-lG6gBk5bx2bJcRaRE-eaX4tg=413">KANSASWORKS.com.</a>&nbsp;State employment opportunities can be found at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fadmin.ks.gov%2Fservices%2Fstate-employment-center%2F/1/01010197f0a98fad-c7561ef0-cd7f-4268-a1dc-d633499d42d7-000000/YGfNMLx8M2ORxeldN2i3YeM_RWchEUQwi2HYqCZXGDE=413">jobs.ks.gov</a>.

KANSASWORKS highlights career opportunities at upcoming virtual job fair

LINDSBORG - Bethany College is pleased to announce the appointment of Don Robson as Associate Professor of Studio Art. An accomplished artist and educator originally from St. Joseph, Missouri, Robson brings a wealth of experience in visual arts, education, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Robson holds a Master of Fine Arts from Wichita State University and a Master of Teaching from the University of Central Missouri. His teaching career has spanned both high school and college levels, and he also brings professional experience in marketing and print production.

Prior to joining Bethany College, Robson served as professor and chair of the Art Department at Concordia University Nebraska in Seward. During his tenure, he led several innovative initiatives, including the development of an Art Therapy program, the Saturday Art School practicum for Art and Elementary Education students, and collaborative curriculum like the interdisciplinary "Studies in Composition" course, which brought together Art and English majors.

A nationally recognized and published artist, Robson has exhibited work in juried competitions, solo and group exhibitions, and his pieces are featured in galleries, museums, and private collections across the United States. His recent exhibitions include a solo show at the Walter Piehl Gallery in Minot, North Dakota, and group exhibitions at venues such as the Marxhausen Gallery, Jackson Dinsdale Gallery, Norfolk Arts Center, and Sioux City Art Center.

Robson’s work and leadership have earned him multiple honors, including Best of Show at the 2022 International All Media Exhibition hosted by the Northwest Arts Center at Minot State University. He was named Higher Education Art Educator of the Year by the Nebraska Art Teachers Association in 2017 and received Concordia University’s Outstanding Teacher Award for 2013–2014.

Bethany College is excited to welcome Don Robson and looks forward to the creativity, academic excellence, and student mentorship he will bring to the studio art program. For more information about our Fine Arts program, please visit <a href="https://www.bethanylb.edu/fine-arts">www.bethanylb.edu/fine-arts</a>.

Bethany College welcomes new Associate Professor of Studio Art

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

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Failure to appear

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Violation of restrictions on driver's license or permit; Use/poss. drug paraphernalia/human body; Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; Improper turn on approach; Poss. of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact; Use/poss. drug paraphernalia/human body; Poss. of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

*No image available for&nbsp;Stanley Townsend, Elizabeth Grace*

NAME:&nbsp;Stanley Townsend, Elizabeth Grace

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit; Interf. w/LEO; obstr./resist/oppose misd. warrant

Saline County Jail Bookings, July 9

TOPEKA - Kansas Tourism is excited to announce the launch of the 2025 Sunflower Summer program, inviting Kansas families to enjoy a season packed with unforgettable adventures across the state. Created especially for Kansas students and their families, the Sunflower Summer program offers complimentary admission to more than 230 attractions. 

The 2025 season opens Saturday, July 12, and runs through Sunday, August 3.

Participating attractions include museums, discovery centers, historic sites, arboretums, zoos and more. The full list of attractions participating in the 2025 Sunflower Summer program can be found on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fsunflowersummer.org%2F/1/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/6iWXPonvYPpvvXiay0tPmIcijH-XT6uRT4CZeWVPqY4=412">SunflowerSummer.org</a>&nbsp;and on the mobile app.&nbsp;

“Sunflower Summer is more than just a fun family outing – it’s an investment in our future,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “By giving Kansas students the opportunity to experience the rich history, culture and natural beauty of our state, we’re helping the next generation fall in love with Kansas. At the same time, this program drives real economic impact to our communities by supporting local attractions and generating increased visitor spending.”

The Sunflower Summer program is open to all Kansas school-aged students, pre-K through 12th grade, including public, private and homeschooled. Out-of-state students and families are not eligible to participate. The program covers admission costs for eligible students and one adult guardian per attraction, per season. Tickets can be claimed through the free Sunflower Summer app and redeemed at the venue upon arrival. You can download the Sunflower Summer app at the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fapps.apple.com%2Fus%2Fapp%2Fsunflower-summer%2Fid1574268821/1/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/lxOezytosbDVIdhQYVah2PF0bnplJ1lsAzJef2A6DzU=412">Apple App Store</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fplay.google.com%2Fstore%2Fapps%2Fdetails%3Fid=com.slcket.sunflower%26hl=en_US%26gl=US%26pli=1/1/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/Zhtt8dlFczKPsm-y6zYAOJc9AbKvg_roBJqiqXRahw4=412">Google Play Store</a>&nbsp;or at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fsunflowersummer.org%2F/2/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/Jg29JDaM5RfB1IKebpTcE0E1CxuYDp_R3qhH5InaeQ0=412">SunflowerSummer.org</a>.

“We are thrilled to launch another year of the growing and popular Sunflower Summer program,” said&nbsp;Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe. “This exciting lineup of attractions is designed to help Kansas families make the most of their summer—by exploring new places and creating unforgettable memories right here at home.”

To share your Sunflower Summer experiences on social media, use the hashtags&nbsp;#ToTheStarsKS&nbsp;and&nbsp;#SunflowerSummer&nbsp;as you post your travels. 

For more travel inspiration and tips about exploring Kansas, go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.travelks.com%2F/1/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/5DACAzDIlxfJ2Ka4UlTGNdoPdgDDPldn1Qi_YQgt7nY=412">TravelKS.com</a>.

2025 Sunflower Summer free program opens statewide on July 12

A man who grew up away from the country has impacted others within the country and continues to do so genuinely, without wanting anything in return.&nbsp;

Mutaz Abakar (45), originally from Sudan, Africa is a beloved employee at the Salina Family YMCA. Many employees and individuals who attend the YMCA, talk highly of Abakar as he is described as a 'man of the people.'

"Mutaz is a man of the people," said&nbsp;Director of Human Resources and Communications, Cherie Grigsby." "Each day I walk in and he’s standing there prepared to greet me, get members signed in,and share a joke with a guest whose on their way out. Mutaz is the type of human that remembers special occasions and notices the return of members who’ve been gone for a while. People feel seen when they interact with Mutaz and the Y is grateful to have such a superhero on our team."

Abakar grew up in Sudan with his family before receiving his U.S. citizenship in 2014. He lived in a village, attended school and worked with his family on a farm they owned in Sudan. Back in 2005 in his early 20's, Abakar was sent to a refugee camp in Ghana without his family after war conflicts within the country of Africa.

He talked about life within the refugee camp was 'tough,' but overcame the obstacles by building relationships with others.

"Life was tough, but it helped when I built relationships with other people," said Abakar.

After Abakar spent 5 years in the refugee camp, he went through an 18-month long process to get a travel visa in order to work in the U.S. He then arrived in Kansas City, where he improved and worked on speaking English. Abakar was not able to find a job in Kansas City, but moved to Salina where he got his first job at Sunflower Bank, where he also received his GED and earned a <a href="https://www.k-state.edu/news/articles/lists/su15/">Bachelor's Degree from KSU Salina in Engineering Technology.</a>&nbsp;

Abakar then started working at the Salina Family YMCA in 2018 and is currently a manager and membership staff member.

"I love my job and I love meeting new people," said Abakar. "I have to continue to work, I love to stay busy and I cannot imagine myself just not working. I also love to stay positive and be nice to other people."

"We’re lucky to have Mutaz on our team and in our community," said CEO, Chris Lehecka. "The only time he missed opening the Y was during a snowstorm in December 2024, so he bought a truck to make sure it wouldn’t happen again. He’s dependable, well-respected and always brings a fun personality (along with giving us a hard time when we deserve it)."

"Mutaz embodies the YMCA and truly loves his job," said Wellness Director, Hope Varela. "Every year members get him a card and generously donate to his Christmas present. If this isn’t the very definition of someone with great integrity, I do not know who is."

"Mutaz is the face of the YMCA," said Sports Director, Jonathan Barajas. "He is the unsung hero and makes that first brew of coffee for all who walk in at 4:30 am. He always makes sure that you are seen and he is a hard working man, with a sincere heart."

Abakar opens the YMCA everyday before 4:30 am and has been doing so for 7 years.&nbsp;

A 'man of the people' is beloved by the community through his service at the YMCA

The Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) has released its Independence Day Holiday activity report. The reporting period for the holiday ran from 6 p.m. on Thursday, July 3 to 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, July 6, 2025.

The Kansas Highway Patrol worked two non-DUI related fatal crashes which resulted in two non-DUI related fatalities. Information on the fatal crashes can be found on the Kansas Highway Patrol&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.gov/khp-crashlogs/">crash log</a>.

Information from activity report is compared to data from 2023 and 2024. Click <a href="https://kansashighwaypatrol.gov/khp-2025-13-patrol-reports-independence-day-holiday-activity/?utm_source=mailpoet&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source_platform=mailpoet&amp;utm_campaign=khp-2022-26-kansas-highway-patrol-to-mobilize-for-operation-clear-track-159">here</a> to see the data from a table cumulated by the KHP.

KHP releases Independence Day Holiday activity report

Salina Police are searching for a suspect(s) who allegedly stole over $6,000 of tools from a work trailer.

According to the Salina Police Department on Monday, July 7th at around 6:45 am, an employee of&nbsp;Schwerdtfager Masonry reported that an unknown suspect(s) 'cut a lock off a work trailer' that was on the 3800 block of S. 9th and allegedly stole several tools from it. Police stated the alleged crime occurred sometime between 2:00 pm on the 4th of July and 6:30 am on Monday.

The tools that were reportedly stolen were: 

Stihl concrete saws (2), Honda Generator, Hilti Concrete Nailer, Milwaukee Hammer drill and a black Dewalt 20-gallon air compressor.

Total loss was valued to be around $6,500.

Police are searching for suspect(s) who allegedly stole over $6,000 of work tools

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circ.; misd/; Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

Saline County Jail Bookings, July 8

This is day 9 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

Kansas wheat farmers have been facing a challenging wheat harvest due to persistent rains on mature wheat. While test weights have suffered because of this, the 2025 crop has shown stronger yields than the past three drought-stricken years.

Officially, the Kansas wheat harvest is 82 percent complete, behind 90 percent complete last year but ahead of 77 percent average, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service crop progress report for the week ending July 6, 2025.&nbsp;

Josh Debes, a wheat farmer in northern Barton County, is among those still navigating the final stretch of harvest. Rainfall over the past week has forced Debes to chase dry fields across the county in hopes of finishing before another rain delay sets in. His wheat crop, already stressed by drought and a high incidence of wheat streak mosaic virus, is now facing quality declines due to the rain.

“We started with test weights at 60 pounds per bushel on our better fields,” Debes said. “But test weights have dropped since the wheat has been rained on.” Equally stressful has been a constant stream of equipment breakdowns that have kept one or both combines out of fields when Mother Nature has opened up a window for cutting.

Despite the setbacks, Debes expects to harvest&nbsp;more bushels this year than in either of the past two years, when extreme drought nearly wiped out his wheat entirely. “Morale is low, but at least we’ve got bushels to sell to cover the costs of getting this fall’s sorghum crop in the ground,” he added.

Jeff Boyd, CEO of Garden City Coop, reported that wheat harvest in their trade territory is 90 to 95 percent complete. Rains over the holiday weekend have slowed progress, and it may be another two days before combines can roll again in Finney County. Recent storms have also caused lodging in some fields.&nbsp;

Harvest began June 14 at their Hooker, Oklahoma, location. Boyd noted that test weights are averaging around 59 pounds per bushel, and protein levels are coming in at 11.8 percent. Overall, Boyd expects an average to above-average crop in terms of total bushels, with quality landing around average. Yields have ranged widely from the 30s to the 80s, with some of the strongest wheat coming from Finney and Lane counties. Yields have tended to decrease further north. The wheat streak mosaic virus complex has impacted yields and test weights in certain areas, while unusually high humidity has caused threshing issues with some varieties.

In Atchison County, Jay Armstrong wrapped up his Soft Red Winter wheat harvest on July 2 with a farm-wide average of 119 bushels per acre. Only 4.2% of wheat grown in Kansas is SRW, according to USDA/NASS’s winter wheat variety survey for 2025. While Armstrong reported good — but not exceptional — quality and test weights, the biggest challenge this season was getting the crop out between frequent rain delays. His harvested acres have already been planted to doublecrop soybeans.

The 2025 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on social media, use #wheatharvest25. Tag at @kansaswheat to share your harvest story and photos.

Day 9: Kansas Wheat Harvest report

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– A pair of former K-State men’s basketball players –&nbsp;Keyontae Johnson&nbsp;and&nbsp;Markquis Nowell&nbsp;– will join recent alum&nbsp;Coleman Hawkins&nbsp;at the upcoming NBA 2K26 Summer League that starts Thursday (July 10) and runs until Sunday, July 20 at the Thomas &amp; Mack Center and Pavilion in Las Vegas.

NBA teams will play round-robin games for a week starting Thursday until July 17 before the playoffs run from July 18-19 capped by the championship game on July 20.

Johnson will play for the Denver Nuggets after playing for the Charlotte Hornets’ G-League team – the Greensboro Swarm, where he averaged 17.7 points, 4.7 rebounds and 2.7 assists in 34 games in 2024-25. Nowell will play for the Milwaukee Bucks after playing for the Houston Rockets’ G-League team – the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, where he averaged 17.3 points, 8.1 assists and 3.1 rebounds in 33 games last season.

Hawkins recently signed a summer league contract with the Golden State Warriors and began his pro career at the California Classic, averaging 8.0 points on 60 percent shooting with 4.0 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game in 2 games, July 5, 6 and 8 at the Chase Center in San Francisco.

Johnson and Nowell will face off against each other on the tournament’s first day (July 10), as the Nuggets will play the Bucks at 8:30 p.m., CT on NBA TV. Hawkins and the Warriors will get started on Friday (July 11) against the Portland Trail Blazers at 10 p.m., CT on ESPN2.

Nowell and the Bucks will be back in action on Saturday (July 12) against the Cleveland Cavaliers and former teammate&nbsp;Nae’Qwan Tomlin&nbsp;at 2:30 p.m. CT on NBA TV Canada. Johnson and the Nuggets will play Saturday night at 9 p.m., CT vs. the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Nowell and Hawkins will both play on Sunday (July 13) with the Bucks playing the L.A. Clippers at 8:30 p.m., CT on NBA TV Canada and the Warriors playing the Utah Jazz at 9 p.m., CT on ESPN2.

Johnson and the Nuggets will play on Tuesday (July 15) against the Toronto Raptors at 7 p.m., CT on ESPN+ followed by Hawkins and the Warriors against the Memphis Grizzlies at 9:30 p.m., CT on NBA TV.

Other games include the Bucks and the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday (July 16) at 4:30 p.m., CT on ESPN2, the Warriors and Raptors on Thursday (July 17) at 9 p.m., CT on NBA TV and the Nuggets and Clippers on Thursday (July 17) at 10 p.m., CT on ESPN2.

More information on the NBA 2K26 Summer League can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nba.com/summer-league/2025" target="_blank">here</a>.

Three Former Wildcats to Play in NBA 2K26 Summer League

WICHITA, Kan. (July 6, 2025)—Kala’i Rosario hit his 10th home run of the season in a 6-2 win by the Wichita Wind Surge over the San Antonio Missions at Equity Bank Park. Wichita put up four runs across the seventh and eighth innings to go ahead and seal the deal against the Missions.&nbsp;

Marcos Castañon doubled off the center field wall to score Moisés Gómez, who reached on an infield error, to give San Antonio the first run of the game in the top of the second. Ricardo Olivar tied the game 1-1 on an RBI single to left center in the home half of the frame.&nbsp;

Albert Fabian lined his first Double-A home run into the Missions bullpen on the first pitch of the third inning.&nbsp;

Rubel Cespedes yanked a chopper over the head of Romeo Sanabria and into right field to knot things up 2-2 in the bottom of the fourth. He’d give the Wind Surge the lead on a solo shot to right center after the stretch in the seventh.&nbsp;

Jacob Wosinski and Mike Paredes held San Antonio to just four hits over five innings, with Paredes earning his ninth win of the season to tie for the best in Minor League Baseball again.

Wichita got three more runs in the bottom of the eighth inning. Kaelen Culpepper slid home on a wild pitch, and then Rosario cracked a two-run home run, his 10th of the year, out to right field for a 6-2 score with the Wind Surge out in front. Tanner Andrews walked one and struck out one in the ninth to secure the series opening win for Wichita.&nbsp;

Wichita Strike Late In Win Over San Antonio

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Nick Loftin hit a go-ahead two-run homer in the seventh inning, then won it in the ninth with a one-out RBI single as the Kansas City Royals beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 4-3 on Tuesday night.

Rookie Jac Caglianone homered for the Royals,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MLB/status/1942737397579669574">a 421-foot drive</a>&nbsp;leading off the second inning that was his first extra-base hit in 14 games at Kauffman Stadium. He had been 5 for 46 at home before Tuesday.

Pittsburgh's Oneil Cruz tied it in the fourth with&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MLB/status/1942743739161596193">a 458-foot shot</a>&nbsp;over the fountains in right field on the day he was announced as a participant&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oneil-cruz-pirates-home-run-derby-e0d48db4b4f6792bbca476b590a1dac1">in next-week's Home Run Derby</a>.

Nick Gonzales put the Pirates ahead with a homer in the top of the seventh before Loftin's drive made it 3-2.

Bryan Reynolds tied it with an RBI grounder in the eighth.

Maikel Garcia singled leading off the ninth against Dennis Santana (2-2) and Salvador Perez followed with a base hit. With one out, Isaac Mattson came in and gave up Loftin's game-ending hit on a 1-0 fastball.

The Pirates fell to 0-5 to start their nine-game trip ahead of the All-Star Break. Kansas City has won five of six.

Carlos Estevez (3-2) worked a scoreless ninth for Kansas City.

The Pirates' Mitch Keller and the Royals' Seth Lugo, both rumored to be trade candidates before the July 31 deadline, were nearly identical through six innings. Each allowed one run on three hits with five strikeouts.

The Pirates loaded the bases with one out in the eighth against Lucas Erceg, who gave up Reynolds' tying fielder's-choice grounder and then retired Gonzales on another groundball.

The Royals had their second straight multi-homer game after not having done that all season.

The teams complete their three-game series Wednesday night with Pittsburgh's Bailey Falter (6-4, 3.69 ERA) facing Kris Bubic (7-6, 2.36).

⚾ Nick Loftin hits 2-run homer in 7th as Royals beat the Pirates

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. and Salvador Perez hit two of Kansas City's four home runs to back a strong start by rookie Noah Cameron, and the Royals beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 9-3 on Monday night.

Cameron (3-4) struck out seven in a season-high seven innings. The left-hander allowed three hits, a walk, and two runs — on Tommy Pham's two-run shot in the third.

Witt went 2 for 3 and scored twice to extend his hitting streak to 11 games.&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1942388380320387120">Witt hit his 13th homer</a>, a two-run shot the opposite way to right-center field off reliever Chase Shugart to give the Royals a 6-2 lead in the fourth. He added a sacrifice fly in the sixth.

Local

Region

Sports

Announcements