The Salina Police Department (SPD) has sent out a Crimestoppers release to the public, as they are seeking tips regarding an unknown suspect(s) who allegedly stole over $6,000 worth of tools from a work trailer.

According to SPD between 2:00 pm on Friday, July 4th and 7:00 am on Monday, July 7th a construction trailer was allegedly burglarized.&nbsp;An employee of Schwerdtfager Masonry reported that a trailer belonging to their business, had several items removed in the 3800 block of S. 9th.

Reportedly, an unknown suspect(s) 'cut a lock to the trailer and stole several tools.'&nbsp;The tools that were allegedly stolen were: 

Two Stihl Concrete Saws, a Honda Generator, a Hilti Concrete Nailer, a Milwaukee Hammer Drill and a DeWalt 20-gallon air compressor. Total loss was valued at $6500.

ORIGINAL: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/75a9da74-8b68-467c-9d2f-96923d40600e">Police are searching for suspect(s) who allegedly stole over $6,000 of work tools</a>

SPD advises ff you have any information concerning this incident or identification of the individual suspect, to call Crimestoppers at&nbsp;825-TIPS.

You can also make an online tip at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#">https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#</a>. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000. Tipsters may also contact the Salina Police Department at&nbsp;(785) 826-7210, for&nbsp;case&nbsp;2025-16952.

UPDATE: Salina Police still searching for suspect(s) who allegedly stole over $6,000 of tools

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📨 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

Salina’s Noon Network AMBUCS is proud to announce the receipt of a generous $1,000 donation from Trinity United Methodist Church, raised through their “On the Road with God” Vacation Bible School (VBS) mission initiative. 

The funds will be used to provide a therapeutic AmTryke tricycle to a local child or adult with mobility challenges.

The donation was presented by Lyz Garwood, Director of Christian Education at Trinity, who was joined by Senior Pastor Eric Meyer and her daughter, Ava. Initially totaling $932.01, the gift increased to an even $1,000 following an additional contribution inspired by the church’s special edition mission newsletter.

“Each year, the VBS planning team picks a project. AMBUCS was selected after a child who uses a wheelchair attended VBS last year and church members learned about the need for adaptive technology to provide inclusive opportunities. We know that kids love helping other kids,” said Garwood. “The AMTryke is a perfect fit for our road trip with God as it gives all kids a way to do life together.”

AmTrykes are therapeutic tricycles modified to meet the specific needs of children and adults with disabilities. As the rider grows, the AmTryke can be adjusted accordingly. Because the trykes are highly adjustable and supported by a large selection of adaptive accessories, nearly every rider—regardless of diagnosis—can experience improved mobility. AmTrykes help build strength, coordination, mobility, and self-esteem, and are commonly recommended by physical and occupational therapists.

“This gift is a beautiful example of community coming together to make a real, lasting impact,” said Karen Vidricksen, President of Noon Network AMBUCS. “Thanks to Trinity’s Vacation Bible School, someone in Salina will soon be gaining mobility, confidence, and freedom.”

Founded in 1992, Salina’s Noon Network AMBUCS has over 50 members who are committed to serving the community. The group is composed mostly of women who serve in leadership and active volunteer roles, helping to drive the organization’s mission forward. The group meets every Thursday at noon at Martinelli’s Little Italy in downtown Salina.

Noon Network AMBUCS is part of National AMBUCS, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization whose mission is to inspire mobility and independence in people with disabilities. In addition to the AmTryke program, the organization also provides Scholarships for Therapists and participates in a variety of local service projects.

To learn more about how you can support Noon Network AMBUCS or to refer someone for an AmTryke, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://noonambucs.com/">noonambucs.com</a>.

Salina church sends generous donation to AMBUCS for AmTryke program

LINDSBORG -&nbsp;Bethany College has announced Janelle Adams and Megan Case as Assistant Professors of Religion.

Janelle recently earned her Ph.D. in Religion from Emory University, where she focused on social ethics and practical theology. Her research explores how faith-based communities respond to pressing social issues, with recent work examining belonging and refugee resettlement. Her scholarship has been published in Practical Theology, the Journal of Pastoral Theology, Center for Migration Studies Essays, and more.

Her dissertation, “Lessons in Shared Sufficiency: How Refugees and Community Partners Practice Belonging at a Faith-Based Community Hub,” employs qualitative methods to investigate practices of belonging in the context of refugee resettlement.

Before coming to Bethany, Adams taught at Spelman College and Candler School of Theology and served as a researcher with the Forum for Theological Exploration’s Discernment Labs initiative. She holds a Master of Divinity from Candler School of Theology and a B.A. in Religious Studies from Rhodes College. Prior to her academic career, Adams worked in refugee resettlement and spiritual care education.

Adams’ appointment comes at a time when Bethany College is deepening its engagement with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Since taking office in May, President Dr. Laura Crawley has been actively reconnecting the college with ELCA partners across the region and nationally. Her recent activities include:

Speaking with the Swedish Friendship Group at Bethany Lutheran Church.&nbsp;

Speaking about Bethany College at the Central States Synod Assembly back in June, at the request of Bishop Candea.

Participating in the Network of ELCA Colleges and Universities (NECU).

Presidents Summer Seminar and the Vocation of Lutheran Higher Education Conference in July at Augsburg University.

Planning visits with Pastor Melissa to ELCA congregations across Kansas this fall and spring.

Attending the upcoming ELCA Churchwide Assembly in Phoenix at the end of July.

These efforts underscore Bethany's ongoing commitment to its Lutheran identity and mission, particularly in welcoming faculty whose scholarship and vocation align with values of faith, service, and social responsibility.

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Adams to Bethany College,” said Rev. Melissa Woeppel, Campus Pastor. “As an ethicist, she will enhance vocational reflection and explore questions of meaning and purpose both in and out of the classroom.”

When Adams is not teaching or writing, she enjoys reading mystery novels and dabbling in stand-up and improvisational comedy.

Bethany College is excited to welcome Janelle Adams to the faculty and looks forward to the meaningful contributions her research and community-centered approach will bring to the religion program. 

For more information about Bethany College's religion program, visit <a href="http://www.bethanylb.edu/religion-philosophy">www.bethanylb.edu/religion-philosophy</a>.

Case earned her doctorate from the University of Texas at Austin in 2016 in Ancient Mediterranean Religions with a graduate portfolio in Women's and Gender Studies. She had previously received degrees from Gettysburg College (2006, B.A. in Anthropology and Religion), Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary (2011, M.Div.), and the University of Texas at Austin (2013, M.A. in Religious Studies).

Since graduation, she has taught at several institutions, including Elon University, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Drury University, and Luther College. Her main area of research is the Hebrew Bible, especially questions involving gender and sexuality in the Deuteronomistic History. 

Case has published articles in Vetus Testamentum, Biblical Interpretation, and the Journal of Religion and Popular Culture, as well as in various edited volumes. She is currently the editor of the Poetical and Wisdom Books for the upcoming King James Version Study Bible from Oxford University Press. Her first book, “The Productive and Disordered Bodies of Judges 19–21: Pre-Monarchic Israel as a Somatic Society,” is in its final stages with Sheffield Phoenix Press.

Case’s appointment comes at a time when Bethany College is deepening its engagement with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Since taking office in May, President Dr. Laura Crawley has been actively reconnecting the college with ELCA partners across the region and nationally. Her recent activities include:

Speaking with the Swedish Friendship Group at Bethany Lutheran Church

Speaking about Bethany College at the Central States Synod Assembly back&nbsp;in June, at the request of Bishop Candea

Participating in the Network of ELCA Colleges and Universities (NECU)&nbsp;Presidents Summer Seminar and the Vocation of Lutheran Higher Education&nbsp;Conference in July at Augsburg University

“Dr. Case brings a wealth of teaching experience to Bethany College, along with a depth of biblical study,” said Rev. Melissa Woeppel, Campus Pastor. “Her engagement in the classroom will serve our students well and we are excited to welcome her!”

In her free time, Case enjoys tabletop games, reading, playing the flute and piano, and being annoyed by her nephews.

Bethany College is excited to welcome Megan Case to the faculty and looks forward to the contributions she will bring to the religion program. 

Two new Assistant Professors of Religion welcomed by Bethany College 

As summer temperatures climb, a Kansas State University veterinarian urges pet owners to take precautions against seasonal hazards to keep their pets safe and healthy.

"Summer is a great time to be outside with your pets, but it also comes with some seasonal risks," said Susan Nelson, clinical professor and veterinarian at the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksvhc.org/services/pet-health-center/">Veterinary Health Center</a>&nbsp;in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/">College of Veterinary Medicine</a>. "By taking a few simple precautions, you can help ensure that your pet stays safe, healthy and happy all season long."

Nelson advises pet owners to begin or continue year-round protection against fleas, ticks and mosquitoes, all of which become more prevalent during the warmer months. These parasites can transmit serious illnesses such as Lyme disease, Plague and heartworm disease, which can be fatal if left untreated. Fortunately, many heartworm preventives also protect against common intestinal parasites, and many of the newer heartworm preventives on the market also kill fleas and ticks as well.

"It is important to keep your pet on preventives year-round due to variation in seasons and 'microclimates' that have developed in more urban areas, as they extend the duration we typically see some parasites, such as mosquitoes," Nelson said. "Because there are so many choices available now, it is important to speak to your veterinarian about which products are optimal for your pet, as they know both you and your pet the best."

Beyond parasite control, Nelson offers several key recommendations to help pets enjoy summer safely:

Summer also brings increased risk of toxic exposures and seasonal irritants.

"Be cautious with summer landscaping and gardening products," Nelson said. "Some mulches, fertilizers and plants — such as lilies, azaleas and rhododendrons — can be toxic to pets."

Increased time outdoors can also trigger seasonal allergies, causing itching, sneezing or watery eyes in pets. Grass awns, chiggers and other hidden irritants may also cause skin infections or more serious complications.

Finally, Nelson reminds pet owners to always provide fresh food, water and shade. Food spoils more easily in warm weather and attracts insects. Dehydration can happen quickly when water bowls are not kept filled. For outdoor pets, be sure to check your yard at various times throughout the day to ensure there is always access to shade so pets can get relief from the heat.

"Summertime is a season many of us look forward to, but it is important to take basic precautions to help prevent our furry friends from physical hazards, toxins and parasites that accompany this time of year," Nelson said. "The keys to a healthy summer for your pet are to provide consistent fresh food, water and parasite preventives, as well as keeping them up to date on their vaccinations. Exercise your pets in the early morning or late evening to help avoid heat exhaustion, and follow the suggestions to avoid exposure to hazardous situations."

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

KSU veterinarian urges pet owners to take precautions against seasonal hazards

A two vehicle crash occurred on Friday morning at the intersection of E. Crawford and S. Ohio streets.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) at around 9:45-9:50 am, a red Ford truck allegedly crashed into a green Plymouth Voyager minivan. SPD stated the driver of the Ford was cited with a 'Failure to Yield.' Both drivers did not receive any medical treatment at this time.

A full report will be given by the SPD next week.

Two vehicle crash on E. Crawford and S. Ohio, updates to follow

LINDSBORG - Bethany College is pleased to announce the appointment of Audrey Saxton as the new Assistant Professor of English. Originally from Oregon, Saxton earned both her Master of Arts and Ph.D. in English from Penn State University, where she taught courses in writing and composition, world literature, and pre-1800 literature. 

Her research focuses on reception, translation, and reading habits in late-medieval England. She studies how manuscripts and book histories reveal the ways people engaged with texts during that period and works to introduce students to both physical and digital archival research. Her current project examines the transmission of Middle English health texts, often called “dietaries,” in both manuscripts and early printed books. These texts offer insight into popular beliefs about health and wellness in late-medieval England and provide a foundation for contemporary self-help literature. Saxton has presented her research at both national and international conferences and will continue her work next summer as a Dibner Research Fellow in the History of Science and Technology at the Huntington Library.

Outside of her academic work, Saxton enjoys reading contemporary fantasy and science fiction, spending time outdoors, and quilting. Bethany College is excited to welcome Audrey Saxton to the faculty and looks forward to the expertise and student-focused approach she brings to the English program. 

For more information about our English program, please visit <a href="http://www.bethanylb.edu/english">www.bethanylb.edu/english</a>.

New Assistant Professor of English announced for Bethany College

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

NAME:&nbsp;Chamberlain, Darius Rashawn

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption; Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Coleman, Casey Elizabeth

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Use/poss. drug paraphernalia/human body; Poss. of marijuana; 2 or more prior convictions; Poss. of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

NAME:&nbsp;Eilrich, Jessica Coraleann

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor; Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance

NAME:&nbsp;Martinez Vaquera, Gilberto

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Failure to appear; Agg. battery; Knowingly cause great body harm; Criminal restraint; Domestic Battery: Know cause phy. cont. 3rd/subs.

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact

Saline County Jail Bookings, July 18

The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service on Wednesday, July 16 its intent to terminate a national program to support the development of small farms, local food businesses, and regional food supply chains.&nbsp;

The announcement allows for the 5-state Heartland Regional Food Business Center to continue normal operations until September 15, 2025, and prepare a plan for a skeleton crew to support 90 Round 1 Business Builder grant awards. USDA funding for Round 2 of the grant&nbsp;program&nbsp;will not proceed.&nbsp;

The Heartland Center is administered by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in cooperation with co-director New Growth and the Center’s Governance Council.&nbsp;The Governance Council will continue deliberations about maintaining the Heartland Center as a network of collaborating support organizations with or without alternative funding. Kansas Rural Center is a Heartland Center support organization and member of the Governance Council.

The Regional Food Business Centers (RFBC) program was part of a national security effort to strengthen the nation’s food supply.&nbsp;

The RFBC program provided seed funding for on-the-ground organizations to build stronger and ongoing support for local and regional farm and food businesses, including needed supply chain infrastructure, such as delivery logistics, food processing equipment, and financing. RFBCs worked to build food supply strength for everyday health and wellness and greater resilience through shocks, such as terror attacks and the kind of economic disruption the country experienced with empty grocery shelves during the Covid-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The Heartland Regional Food Business Center is one of 12 RFBCs across the country. It started up in 2023 with USDA seed funding to serve local food and farm entrepreneurs in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and nine northwest Arkansas counties.&nbsp;

The Heartland Center’s 32 on-the-ground partner organizations have already assisted more than 2,500 food and farm enterprises across this region. Program termination will eliminate USDA funding for business development&nbsp;supportstaff working at partner organizations.

“It is devastating that USDA seed funding for this regional effort to build small food and farm businesses and supply chains will end two years earlier than expected,” said Katie Nixon with rural Missouri community development corporation New Growth.

“Our 32 partner organizations are committed to the work. We will continue collaboration to the best of our ability and seek further investment in this important economic development effort.”

Nearly half of Heartland Center total funding ($25 million over four years) was dedicated to directly supporting business expansion projects among small food and farm businesses in the region through Business Builder Subaward grants.&nbsp;

The group of 90 Round 1 finalists is just one-fifth of the 479 applications the Heartland Center received with requests totaling more than $20 million. Round 1 will provide $3.7 million for finalists’ projects.

The Heartland Center had expected as many as 1,000 applicants for its planned Round 2 funding pool of $8.3 million.

Kansas Rural Center issues statement regarding USDA to 'end regional food business center funding'

Saline County Commissioners voted to 'cut' a proposed mill levy tax rate (property taxes) for the 2026 county budget, during a county commission meeting on Tuesday.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, July 15th during the Saline County Commission meeting, county commissioners discussed and reviewed a proposed mill levy (property tax) rate for the 2026 year. During the meeting, Saline County Administrator Phillip Smith-Hanes presented the proposed 2026 mill levy rate for commissioners and gave options for further decisions.

A mill levy rate is the tax rate that is derived from applying the 'County's budget,' less 'other income' (grants, service fees, assessments, etc.) to the total assessed valuation of taxable properties within the specific County.

(For example, if a 'residential value' is $150,000 it would then be multiplied by Kansas' statewide&nbsp;residential assessment rate (11.5%), which equals to an 'assessed value' of $17,250. The county will then multiply the total mill levies for all applicable taxing jurisdictions by the 'assessed value,' which will make up the 'property tax amount').

Those decisions were either to exceed or decrease the proposed 2026 mill levy rate.&nbsp;

According to Saline County, the current mill levy rate is&nbsp;40.112 ($40.11 in property tax per $1,000 of assessed valuation/annually)&nbsp;and the proposed 2026 mill levy rate was stated to be&nbsp;41.571 ($41.57 in property tax/$1,000 value).

Before the decision was made, appeals from the county clerk's office and human resources department were presented. Those appeals were to hire a new payroll position (presented by HR) and/or to hire an extra position for the elections office (presented by the county clerk's office). The decision to either hire one or both of the positions was not required to be made at this time by the county commissioners.

According to Smith-Hanes, if the commissioners voted to approve both appeals, the proposed 2026 mill levy rate would increase from 41.571 ($41.57 in property tax/$1,000 value)&nbsp;to 41.731 ($41.73&nbsp;in property tax/$1,000 value).&nbsp;(41.647 for the approval of the elections office position only, and 41.663 for the approval of the payroll position only).

District 5 Commissioner Joe Hay, commented that he did 'not want to exceed the proposed mill levy rate.'

"We need to take care of the taxpayers, so they do not have a property tax burden," said Hay.

Vice Chairman, District 1 Commissioner Monte Shadwick stated that he was not 'willing to raise the property taxes' as well. He also commented that the food service at the Senior Services Center in Salina has a 'negative cash flow of $233,000 per year.'

Moreover,&nbsp;District 4 Commissioner James Weese stated that the county could decrease the proposed 2026 mill levy rate by 'cutting it' to 40.700 ($40.70&nbsp;in property tax/$1,000 value).&nbsp;

After further discussion, all commissioners (except for Secretary, District 2 Commissioner Annie Grevas who was not present) voted to decrease the proposed 2026 mill levy rate to 40.700 ($40.70) for next year's county budget.

Until there is an official decision on the 2026 mill levy rate, there will be a final consideration, public hearing on September 9th, 2025.&nbsp;

The date to adopt the budget would be&nbsp;October 1st, 2025.

Links to the&nbsp;2026 County Budget Direction presented on Tuesday, July 15:

<a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=10198" target="_blank">2026 County Budget Direction</a>

<a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=10199" target="_blank">Budget Appeal Letter Clerk 2026</a>

<a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=10200" target="_blank">2026 HR personnel request</a>

<a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=10201" target="_blank">Revenue Neutral Intent County</a>

Link to the 2026 Adopted Budget presented on Tuesday, July 1st:

<a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=10110">2026 Adopted Budget&nbsp;</a>

🎥 Saline County Commission votes to 'cut' proposed property tax rate for the 2026 budget

Abilene Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau

ABILENE - Abilene is ready to add another national accolade to its growing list. 

On Thursday, Newsweek announced the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum &amp; Boyhood Home in , as a nominee in its 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Presidential Attraction.

This marks the first time Abilene has been honored by Newsweek.

“Being nominated by Newsweek is a tremendous honor,” said Todd Arrington, Director of the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum. “It’s a reflection of the important work we do to preserve and share the story of Dwight D. Eisenhower—one of America’s most admired leaders.”

Nominees for Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards are selected by editors with input from travel experts across the country. Abilene’s nomination was submitted by Amy Piper, Follow the Piper, a travel writer who visited the Presidential Library and Museum through the Abilene Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau’s Travel Media Hosting Program.

"The relationships we build are invaluable, and we’re so appreciative of this nomination,” said Julie Roller Weeks, Director of the Abilene Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau. “From USA TODAY and TravelAwaits to True West Magazine, Smithsonian Magazine, and other respected outlets powered by real traveler experiences, Abilene continues to earn national recognition from those who’ve experienced it firsthand.”

Voting for Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards opens Thursday, July 17 at 11 a.m. CST and closes Thursday, August 14 at 10:59 a.m. CST.

Voters can cast their vote daily at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsweek.com/readerschoice/best-presidential-attraction-2025">https://www.newsweek.com/readerschoice/best-presidential-attraction-2025</a>

BONUS: Abilene's 'Victorian Inn Bed and Breakfast' Nominated as "Newsweek's Best Historic Bed and Breakfast"

Once the home of President Eisenhower's boyhood friend, Swede Hazlett, Abilene's Victorian Inn is now a lovely bed-and-breakfast that has been refreshed to its former glory.

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