K-State News and Communications Services, Division of Communications and Marketing

<a target="_blank" href="http://salina.ksu.edu/">Kansas State University Salina</a>&nbsp;is home to award-winning faculty and staff who demonstrate teaching excellence, service to students, innovative course and curricula design, and overall exemplary contributions to campus success.

Five outstanding faculty and staff members have been recognized for their distinct commitment and accomplishments at K-State Salina in the 2024-2025 academic year.

"As a campus, our most important resources are the people who provide valuable services to our students," said Alysia Starkey, K-State Salina CEO and dean. "The annual awards presented to faculty and staff are a small way to intentionally recognize the talent and efforts from the people who strive for excellence every day."

Doug Zerr, instructor of composites, is the recipient of the Rex and Jean McArthur Family Faculty Award. The award recognizes a distinguished faculty member who demonstrates teaching excellence in the classroom, commitment to research and innovation, and honorable service to the college, university and community.

"Doug has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to teaching excellence and has played a pivotal role in advancing K-State Salina's capabilities to serve the region," said his nominator. "His passion for composites and dedication to student success drive everything he does. His hands-on, practical approach to teaching ensures that students gain real-world experience while keeping course material accessible and engaging."

Tim Bower, professor of computer systems technology and robotics and automation engineering technology, has been recognized with the Marchbanks Memorial Award for Teaching Excellence. The award recognizes a K-State Salina faculty member for their exemplary service to students, commitment in the classroom and overall excellence in teaching. Recipients promote excellence in education with a focus on developing students' talents and abilities.

"Tim challenges students with complex topics, presenting them in a structured and engaging manner," his nominator said. "A prime example of his meticulous approach is the online study guides he has developed. These comprehensive resources serve as textbooks for his courses, providing students with free and accessible learning materials. Because the study guides are available on the internet, they have also generated interest from people all over the world."

Chad Bailey, instructor of electronic computer engineering technology and robotics and automation engineering technology, is this year's recipient of the Delker Faculty Excellence Award. The award celebrates a faculty member who is developing innovative courses and curricula. Recipients demonstrate a passion for improving student learning opportunities and innovation in academics. This award encourages self-nominations from faculty who seek to bring new ideas into the classroom.

"One of the best parts of teaching is seeing students go from reading about robots to actually building robots," Bailey said. "My goal is to create more hands-on learning experiences where students use autonomous mobile robots to work on projects that matter. Whether it's developing navigation systems, testing out sensors or figuring out how robots can help in agriculture, I want students to learn by doing."

Devin Larm, assistant chief flight instructor, is the second-ever recipient of K-State Salina's Professional Staff of the Year award. Recipients of this award are acknowledged for their exemplary contributions to the mission and values of the campus through their commitment to service, productivity, innovation and leadership.

"Devin is an alumnus of our college and continues to provide an unwavering service to the aviation department and our students," his nominator said. "He has displayed true grit and professionalism throughout the numerous adjustments to staff, policy and curriculum. He is innovative in his teachings and creative with the students."

Sgt. Sean Morton, campus police sergeant, has been honored with the K-State Salina University Support Staff of the Year Award. This distinction recognizes an employee's contribution to the success of the campus through excellence in performance and service.

"Since setting foot on campus, Sean has been tireless in his efforts to enhance safety and security for students, staff and faculty," said his nominator. "Over the past year, he has led the effort to increase our security camera coverage on campus, which resulted in us doubling the number of cameras from this time last year."

More information about the 2025 recipients is at the K-State Salina&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/about/awards-recognition/">awards and recognition website</a>.

K-State Salina recognizes five faculty and staff members for the 2024-2025 academic year

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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

HAYS — The Wild West Festival Committee has announced details of the much-anticipated return of a carnival to the annual Fourth of July weekend celebration, with Garry Moore Amusements set to provide a variety of rides, games, and food stalls.

The carnival will operate in conjunction with the festival from Thursday, July 3, through Saturday, July 5, offering entertainment for all ages.

Garry Moore Amusements will open each evening at 5 p.m., with operations continuing as long as crowd support allows.

Wristbands for unlimited rides will be honored nightly from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Per-ride tickets will also be available for purchase during all operational hours. The carnival is expected to feature approximately 10 rides, 10 game stands, and two food stands, ensuring a diverse array of attractions for all ages.

"We are incredibly excited and relieved to announce the return of a carnival to the Wild West Festival," said Julie Edgeman, committee president. "Securing a quality carnival has been a significant challenge in recent years, and we are immensely grateful to Garry Moore Amusements for stepping up to bring this exciting piece of events to the Fourth of July holiday weekend. It's an element that truly completes the festival experience for many families."

Advance wristbands for the carnival are available for $25, offering a discount from the $30 price at the carnival gate.

These advance wristbands can be purchased during Wild West Festival set-up days, Monday, June 30, through Wednesday, July 2, at the Fort Hays Tech | North Central Main St. building at 101 Main St. from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. They will also be available at the merchandise table located inside the festival grounds during open festival hours.

It is important to note that access to the carnival does not require a Wild West Festival concert ticket, as Garry Moore Amusements operates as an independent entity, despite running concurrently with the festival.

Beyond the carnival, planning for the Wild West Festival's main stage concerts and activities is proceeding smoothly.

Advance festival tickets, granting access to all three nights of concerts, remain available for $35 at local Cerv's and Dillons locations, as well as online at wildwestfestival.com.

Tickets purchased at the door will be $45 for single-night admission.

"Purchasing advance tickets for all three nights is by far the most economical way to experience the festival, even if attendees only plan to come for one night," Edgeman said. "The value of the three-night pass significantly outweighs the single-night door price, making it an attractive option for anyone looking to enjoy our incredible lineup of concerts."

For the latest updates, including concert schedules, weather statements, and any other announcements that could affect festival events, attendees are encouraged to monitor the official <a href="https://www.facebook.com/wildwestfestival/">Wild West Festival Facebook page</a>.

Wild West Festival announces carnival details and festival updates

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 CHARGES:&nbsp;DUI; 2nd conv; comp evidence of blood/breath .08+; Duty of driver to report; Unattended veh./prop.;unkn.; No Proof Of Insurance

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity; No Proof Of Insurance

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Mencanin, William Joseph

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Theft of prop./services: Value less than $1,500; Theft of prop./serv.; &lt;$1500 3 business in 72 hrs

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Failure to appear

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Agg. assault; w/ deadly weapon; Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor; Criminal restraint

NAME:&nbsp;Soto Gutierrez, Francisco

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; Improper driving on laned roadway; Interf. w/LEO; obstr./resist/oppose misd. warrant

Saline County Jail Bookings, June 29

"Daddy Bud Day," a free community block party in north Salina, will take place at Pacific Park, 701 W. Pacific, on Saturday, July 5th at 10:00 am.

Salina native James Curtis (also known as Cash Hollistah), in collaboration with the Curtis Family and local nonprofit 'Salina Shares,' will be hosting the event. 

Beginning at 10:00 am,&nbsp;Daddy Bud Day&nbsp;will feature&nbsp;free hamburgers, hot dogs and grilled onsite by the Salina Police Department. Complimentary beverages will also be provided. Dominoes and spades tables will be on hand, in addition to basketball, bounce houses and various water &amp; lawn games for the children.&nbsp;

The event will also feature prizes and giveaways throughout the day. The main highlight of the celebration&nbsp;is the 2nd annual DBD All-Star Basketball Game at 2:00 pm. Sponsored by Be Wealth, the All-Star Game will pit Hollistah's team, "Big Bank," against his younger brother John Curtis III's team, "Northside Mafia", in a rematch of last year's game in which the Mafia won, 93-84. The game will feature players such as former Harlem Globetrotter, Hannah Mortimer, Kansas food blogger JackStacksEats and Salina rapper Dee Eazy.&nbsp;

Daddy Bud Day was originally founded in 1967 by the late John “Bud” Curtis Sr., who created the event as a way to give back to Salina’s African-American community,&nbsp;though everyone was welcomed. "Bud" provided free food, organized games, and even covered swimming fees, all from his own pocket. After his passing in 1971, the event carried on for several more years, peaking with more than 400 attendees in 1974. "Bud" was posthumously honored with a Salina&nbsp;Juneteenth Award in 2014.&nbsp;&nbsp;Daddy Bud Day&nbsp;was revived in 2023 by his grandson, James.

"Hearing stories about my grandfather and what he did for the community, coupled with the lack of events that bring different parts of the community together, especially in north&nbsp;Salina,&nbsp;was what made me want to resurrect it," Curtis said. "I wanted to continue the legacy left by him, my&nbsp;father, and my mother (the late Jeannette Curtis)."

In honor of that legacy,&nbsp;efforts have been underway to rename Pacific Park to “Curtis Park,”&nbsp;as well as launch a broader&nbsp;renovation of the space.

Daddy Bud Day&nbsp;is free and open to the public. Bringing your own lawn chair is strongly encouraged. 

Donations are also being accepted. For more info or ways to donate, contact Cash at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:DaddyBudDay@gmail.com">DaddyBudDay@gmail.com</a>.

Cash Hollistah, Curtis Family and Salina Shares hosts block party on Saturday 

The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the launch of its first Salina Business Expo, a dynamic new event designed to connect local businesses, entrepreneurs, and the Salina community.

The Expo will take place on September 18, 2025 at Tony’s Pizza Events Center (800 The Midway) from 10am to 2pm. Open to the public, the Business Expo will showcase a diverse array of businesses from Salina and surrounding areas.

“The Salina Business Expo is all about strengthening local connections,” said Renee Duxler, president and CEO of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, “This is an opportunity for businesses of all sizes to showcase what they do best, for job seekers to explore new opportunities, and for residents to see just how much talent and innovation exists right here in Salina.”

The Chamber will be holding informational meetings at the Visit Salina Annex (120 W. Ash) for interested exhibitors and sponsors to attend and find out more about the Expo and what it will entail. Both member and non-member businesses are welcome:

For more information, visit <a href="http://www.salinakansas.org/salina-business-expo.html">www.salinakansas.org/salina-business-expo.html</a> or call Hayley Rhodes at 785-827-9301 or email at <a href="http://hrhodes@salinakansas.org">hrhodes@salinakansas.org</a>.

Chamber announces new Business Expo event for the Fall 

While fireworks and festivities are staples of Independence Day, the holiday often brings anxiety and risk for pets. Loud noises, bright flashes, unfamiliar guests and tempting table scraps can all pose threats to their health and safety.

Kansas State University veterinarian Susan Nelson encourages pet owners to start preparing early, especially if their pet has shown fear around fireworks in the past.

"One of the most important things is to keep your pet inside during the days fireworks are allowed, as it is this time of year that sees the highest numbers of lost pets," said Nelson, clinical professor at K-State's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksvhc.org/services/pet-health-center/">Veterinary Health Center</a>. "The noises and flashes are very frightening for many pets and can cause them to flee in an attempt to get away from the commotion."

If your pet must go outside, always use a leash. Ensure your pet is wearing a collar with ID tags, and consider microchipping if it's not already done, as it will provide backup if your pet's collar is lost. Keeping contact information up to date is critical in case your pet gets lost.

Nelson advises creating a calm, secure environment indoors to help reduce pet stress. For many pets, a familiar crate or closed-off room offers a comforting retreat.

"A crate or quiet room with the blinds drawn can make a big difference for dogs that feel overwhelmed," Nelson said. "Giving them a familiar, enclosed space helps them feel safe when the noise outside gets intense."

Keeping pets indoors also reduces their risk of physical harm. Fireworks, whether lit or leftover, can injure or poison animals. In neighborhoods where fireworks are frequently used, relocating pets to a quieter home or boarding facility may be the safest choice.

Additional measures can also be helpful, depending on your pet's needs. Over-the-counter calming aids are an option for some animals.

"Some pets respond well to calming supplements, especially if their anxiety is mild to moderate," Nelson said. "Just remember, many of these need to be started several days in advance to be effective, so don't wait until the fireworks begin."

Other strategies include soothing background noise — such as a television, radio or white noise machine — or offering a distraction like a food puzzle or stuffed food toy. Anxiety wraps may help some pets and can be used alone or in combination with medication.

For pets with a history of severe noise phobia, it's important to consult your veterinarian early."

There's no one-size-fits-all solution," Nelson said. "For some pets, an anxiety wrap is enough. But others with more serious phobias may need prescription medications, and for those, you need to plan ahead of time with your veterinarian."

Beyond anxiety, Nelson warns there are many holiday hazards that involve food, drinks and common party items."

We often see pets get sick around the holidays from foods that aren't meant for them," Nelson said. "Even small amounts of things like chocolate, fatty meats or xylitol can have serious consequences."

Toxic foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, macadamia nuts and salt. Doughs with yeast can expand in a pet's stomach, causing pain or more serious complications. Fatty meats can trigger life-threatening pancreatitis. Corncobs, bones and wooden skewers can also cause internal blockages or perforations if swallowed. Alcohol and energy drinks are other risks that should be kept out of reach at all times.

Nelson said common backyard and party items such as matches, lighter fluid, glow jewelry, insect coils, citronella candles and repellents — especially those containing DEET — are also dangerous if ingested or used incorrectly around pets.

Hot weather adds to the risk. Pets can overheat quickly, so access to shade and fresh water is essential. Watch for signs of heat stress and move pets indoors to cool spaces if needed.

Finally, even if your dog seems unfazed by loud sounds, it's best to leave them at home during firework shows.

"Even the most easygoing dog can react unpredictably when fireworks start," Nelson said. "Loud noises, flashing lights and big crowds are a stressful combination. It's always safer to leave your pet at home."

For more information on year-round pet health, consult your family veterinarian.

Keep pets safe this Fourth of July with tips from K-State veterinarian

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Return for court testimony

NAME:&nbsp;Carreno, Charly Orfanel

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Use/poss. drug paraphernalia/human body; Poss. of marijuana; Poss. of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont. substance

NAME:&nbsp;Fitzgeralds, Madison Kay

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit; Domestic Battery: rude physical contact

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Failure to appear; Use/poss. drug paraphernalia/human body; Interf. w/LEO; obstr./resist/oppose felony warrant; Poss. of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

Saline County Jail Bookings, June 28

ABILENE - An 'Old Fashioned' 4th of July celebration will be taking place next Friday that will feature a whole day of events, games, food, races, fireworks and more.

According to the Abilene, KS City Hall on Friday, July 4th a celebration of 4th of July will occur at Eisenhower Park with registration starting at 7:00 am.

The all day celebration will include:

7:00 am - Tournament registration begins

8:00 am - 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament ($20/per team); Mud Volleyball Tournament ($30.00/per team); Cornhole Tournament ($10/ per team); Pickleball Tournament&nbsp;($10/per team)

9:00 am - Register for Baby Beauty ($5/child) @ Bandshell; Pedal Power Tractor Pull @ Show Barn

10:00 am - Start Baby Beauty&nbsp;

Noon&nbsp;- Start Pool Activities (Pre-Registration not required)

1:00 - 5:00 pm - Free swim @ Abilene Municipal Pool

8:00 pm - Start City Band performance @ Bandshell

9:45 pm - Fireworks show (Shot from behind the Abilene Community Center,&nbsp;1020 NW. 8th)

Kansas State Fire Marshal Firework Safety Reminders:

Always read and follow label instructions.

 Always purchase high quality fireworks from a reliable, legitimate source.

 Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a "designated shooter."

 Adults should always supervise use of fireworks by older children.

 Always wear eye protection when lighting fireworks.

 Never ignite fireworks indoors. Make sure your outdoor area is safe for firework use.

 Never point or throw fireworks at a person, building, or animal.

 Have a source of water handy, in case of fire.

 Always shoot fireworks from a level surface.

 Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.

 Never attempt to re-light malfunctioning fireworks.

 When lighting fireworks, never position any part of your body over them.

 Never experiment with homemade fireworks. They are dangerous and illegal.

 Bottle rockets and other skyrockets that are mounted on a stick or wire are illegal.

 It is illegal to shoot fireworks on or under a vehicle, on any public roadway, within 50 feet of a firework stand or where fireworks are stored, and gas stations or any place liquid gas- including propane - is stored.&nbsp;

For questions or accommodation requests, contact the City of Abilene Parks and Recreation office at (785) 263-7266.

'Old Fashioned' 4th of July celebration taking place in Abilene, KS

Construction has started today&nbsp;of a raised pedestrian crossing on YMCA Drive.&nbsp;

According to the City of Salina, construction will take up the&nbsp;entire width of the roadway. As a result, YMCA Drive will be closed between the entrances to the Salina Family YMCA.

Drivers are advised to plan alternate routes and use caution near the work zone.

Accordingly, this work is part of the City of Salina’s $5.9 million 2025 maintenance capital improvement program.

Salina Family YMCA stated that improvements after this construction will include:

Installation of safety traffic signs with blinking lights at crosswalks. 

Enhanced entrances to the east parking lot.

Salina Family YMCA encourages those entering from Westchester Dr., to enter and take a sharp right in the lane created by the traffic cones all the way to the north end of the lot then proceed into the lot as usual. YMCA states that this is the 'safest way for traffic to flow and allow for normal parking.'

The project is expected to take up to 2-3 weeks.

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