MARION COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 6p.m. Saturday in Marion County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2022 Lincoln&nbsp;Nautilus  SUV driven by Ronald D. Ludwig, 92, Florence, was southbound on Nighthawk Road at U.S. 50 in Peabody.&nbsp; The driver did not yield at the stop sign. The SUV traveled into the intersection. An eastbound 2024 Freightliner Semi driven by&nbsp; Dennis E. Smith, 35, Nampa, Idaho, struck the SUV.

A passenger in the SUV identified as Dorothy F.&nbsp;Conyers was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Jost Funeral Home.&nbsp; EMS transported Ludwig to an area hospital for treatment of minor injuries.&nbsp; The semi driver was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dead after semi, SUV crash

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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

ABILENE - Employees of Memorial Health System (MHS) wore blue jeans at work for another “Jeans Day” fundraiser on Fridays throughout the month of June. 

Employees make a donation of at least $5 and are allowed to wear blue jeans at work. A total donation of $440 was presented to Herington Hearts Core Community.&nbsp;

The Herington Hearts Core Community program offers support to individuals to help build financial, emotional, and social resources as well as economic stability.&nbsp;

The monthly Jeans Day fundraiser is organized by the MHS Employer of Choice (EOC) committee.

Memorial Health System generously donates to Herington Hearts Core Community

Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad

ABILENE - A major half million dollar track rehabilitation project on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad has been completed, an undertaking that the railroad and its construction contractor are both promising will deliver smoother, safer rides for train crews and passengers.

            Workers from R&amp;S Track Maintenance wrapped up a month long rehabilitation project this week, signaling an end to track issues that have long hampered the railroad’s growth. A staff of eight R&amp;S construction specialists has worked on a busy four day dawn-to-dusk schedule each week, tackling problems that have been beyond the budget and expertise of the A&amp;SV’s volunteer maintenance crew. 

R&amp;S staffers have replaced 1,600 badly aged wooden crossties, tightened rail joints, leveled the track, and sealed the project with 1,000 tons of granite rock ballast. 

These moves have, in effect, added years of life to the railroad’s aged infrastructure and the difference in the quality of A&amp;SV rides has been immediately noticeable.

            Funding for the project came from the Kansas Department of Transportation’s $588,395 Rail Service Improvement Grant Program. The A&amp;SV’s successful application was announced in December. R&amp;S was the successful bidder among a final list of three railroad maintenance companies. The Columbus, Nebraska, based firm has been in business since 1987 and employs a staff of 44 workers. According to senior project manager Quentin Burkel, the firm currently has projects in Wyoming, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Illinois, and routinely performs maintenance projects as well as new track construction.

            “Our primary customers are private industry—ethanol plants, coops, some short line railroads––and the Abilene and Smoky Valley has been a nice project for us,” Burkel said, who added that the heavy rains in late June were an obstacle in finishing the work by June 28, the targeted date for completion.

Burkel said the massive rehabilitation project actually began when he arrived in Abilene in late May to personally inspect the condition of the track, allowing him to gauge the enormity of the project. He rode the track with A&amp;SV maintenance manager Chris Rush, then walked the entire 5.5 miles of the main line, making note of bad ties, rail conditions, and spots where extra work would be needed.

Burkel’s inspection revealed some unexpected problems that were not covered by the initial list of needs in the KDOT grant. He worked with A&amp;SV President and General Manager Ross Boelling to make recommendations, changes that were, in turn, approved by KDOT.

“We altered the scope of the project to suit the railroad’s needs a bit better,” Burkel explained. His inspection revealed that the A&amp;SV’s original ask for 1,000 new ties was likely not enough, and he suggested altering selected items in the grant to free up more money to cover the cost of 600 additional crossties.

“We felt that the surfacing phase—the lifting and tamping of the track—would not hold up very long unless more ties were added,” he explained, noting that the crew added extra ties to some spots along the line that had proven to be problematic over the years.

“Having the expertise of maintenance professionals on hand to not only do the work but to also offer advice has been extremely helpful,” said Boelling.

“These guys have pointed out how we can best use our allotted funds to make this project even more successful.”

New granite ballast was delivered to Abilene on June 24. The new rock replaces the limestone that had been used, much of which had either washed away from heavy rains or sunk into the roadbed. The new ballast will add to the strength and durability of the rehabilitated track.

Burkel said the R&amp;S crew enjoyed their time in Abilene.

“I’ve fallen in love with that railroad. That steam locomotive is absolutely incredible, and it’s great that you’re keeping that thing alive. I can’t wait to come down and buy a ticket and ride when its rebuild is completed.”

The completion of this project coupled with the $380,000 spent in 2022 and the $60,000 upgrades in 2024, means that the A&amp;SV has now spent $1.1 million to upgrade its track. The KDOT award was a 70-30 matching grant, meaning the railroad is currently trying to raise $176,000 to cover its share of the match, coupled with the balance remaining from past maintenance work.

“We’ve funded about $658,000 of this work by ourselves,” said Boelling, “and we have about $350,000 remaining today.”

Contributions can be made at the railroad’s website, asvrr.org,  using the “2025 Track Match” link.

Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad completes major mainline track overhaul

CKF Addiction Treatment is pleased to announce the appointment of Jessica M. Eckels as its new President &amp; Chief Executive Officer. A twelve-year veteran of the organization, Eckels steps into the permanent role with the full support of the Board of Directors and a deep, demonstrated commitment to CKF’s mission.

Known for her leadership in operational strategy, program development, and community partnership, Eckels has been instrumental in many of CKF’s most impactful initiatives over the past decade. Her experience spans every level of the organization, giving her unique insight into both day-to-day service delivery and long-term system change.

“This organization is personal to me,” said Eckels. “I’ve walked alongside our teams, our patients, and our community through some of the most difficult and inspiring moments. As CEO, I’m honored to lead CKF into its next chapter; one rooted in stability, access, and the belief that recovery should be a real and reachable option for everyone.”

Eckels has been a statewide advocate for compassionate, person-centered addiction treatment and is widely recognized for her work to normalize conversations about recovery, reduce stigma, and build stronger systems of care. As a passionate Kansan, her focus remains on creating sustainable solutions that meet local needs while connecting communities to broader resources.

CKF also announced recent changes in board leadership, with Kirk L. Holt named Board Chair and Ashley R. Jarvis as Vice Chair. The newly configured board reflects strong governance and alignment, reinforcing the organization’s stability and long-term direction.

“Our Board is confident in Jessica's ability to lead CKF forward,” said Holt. “She brings both heart and strategy to the table, with the respect of our staff, our partners, and our community.”

Under Eckels' leadership, CKF will continue its focus on delivering high-quality, evidence-based treatment for individuals and families across Kansas. With a strong leadership team and engaged board, CKF is well-positioned to continue meeting the needs of the communities it serves for years to come.

CKF Addiction Treatment is a nonprofit behavioral health organization offering a full continuum of substance use disorder services across Kansas. CKF provides detox, residential treatment, outpatient care, peer support, and community-based services with a focus on dignity, access, and long-term recovery.

CKF Addiction Treatment appoints new CEO

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 CHARGE:&nbsp;Use/poss. drug paraphernalia/human body

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Use/poss. drug paraphernalia/human body; Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; Poss. of marijuana; Transporting an open container; Unlawful acts: vehicle registration violation

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Failure to appear

Saline County Jail Bookings, July 13

Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://beach.k-state.edu/">Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art</a>&nbsp;is celebrating contemporary Kansas artists with the launch of a new Kansas Triennial series and inaugural exhibition.

The "Kansas Triennial 25/26" exhibition opens on Aug. 5 in the Marion Pelton Gallery and the Archie and Dorothy Hyle Family Gallery. It runs through May 31, 2026, and features works by Kansas artists Mona Cliff, Mark Cowardin, Poppy DeltaDawn and Ann Resnick.The exhibition builds on the museum's longstanding commitment to honoring the region while providing artistic learning opportunities to Kansans. By featuring artists working today, "Kansas Triennial 25/26"connects the museum's diverse artistic history with Kansas' creative future, fostering dialogue about the relationship between past influences and present innovation.

"The Kansas Triennial isn't just an exhibition — it's a platform," said Kent Michael Smith, director of the Beach Museum of Art and curator of the triennial exhibition. "It gives us the chance to pause every few years and take stock of what artists in this state are doing, what they're grappling with and how they're innovating. It reflects the incredible depth and range of work being created here in Kansas right now. Our goal is to support those voices and make space for them in a way that feels lasting, rigorous and grounded in place."

The museum's new Kansas Triennial series will feature a curated exhibition every three years, showcasing the dynamic voices of Kansas-based artists. The series highlights the wide variety within contemporary art and Kansas' rich, ever-evolving artistic landscape.

Kansas artists featured in new exhibition at Beach Museum of Art

Four Kansas artists will be featured in the inaugural Kansas Triennial exhibition, and their work ranges from sculpture and beadwork to woodburning and weaving.

Mona Cliff,&nbsp;Lawrence, is a multidisciplinary visual artist and an enrolled member of the Aaniiih, Gros Ventre, Tribe who contributes beadwork-based wall hangings that combine traditional Indigenous techniques with contemporary design. Her works merge natural forms and cultural resilience, offering vibrant and dimensional compositions rooted in heritage and experimentation.

Mark Cowardin,&nbsp;Lawrence, presents sculptural installations constructed from wood, metal, ceramics and industrial components. His practice navigates themes of consumption, sacredness and interconnected systems, often incorporating functional elements like ladders and lighting to represent both utility and metaphor.

Poppy DeltaDawn,&nbsp;Lawrence, is a conceptual textile artist who creates intricately woven and woven-inspired works that explore identity, bodily autonomy, resistance and perseverance. Through bold palettes and complex textures, her pieces speak to transformation, visibility and presence.

Ann Resnick,&nbsp;Wichita,contributes emotionally resonant works created through pyrography and monoprinting. Her practice is rooted in personal and collective memory, with materials — often humble and minimal — serving as vessels for grief, reflection and the passage of time.

Learn more about "Kansas Triennial 25/26" art and artists with free public events

The community has several opportunities to engage with the artists of the "Kansas Triennial 25/26" exhibition during free events at the Beach Museum of Art this fall.

The exhibition opening and reception event will take place at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, and all triennial artists will be in attendance as special guests.

The public can also learn more about the work in the exhibition from the artists at several Artist Talk events:

The Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art at 701 Beach Lane at the southeast corner of the K-State campus in Manhattan. Opened in 1996, the museum is dedicated to connecting regional art, culture and communities, with a mission to collect, preserve, research and present the visual art of Kansas and the surrounding region.

Through exhibitions, educational programs, and campus and community partnerships, the Beach Museum of Art serves as a vital cultural resource for students, scholars and the broader public. Its hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Thursdays; and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturdays.

Admission is free, and free parking is available adjacent to the building. Visit the museum's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://beach.k-state.edu/">website</a>&nbsp;for livestream events and online exhibitions, and view special programs on the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1obT2UdtQU6U0j0uz2gJzQ">museum's YouTube channel</a>. For more information about upcoming programs and events, visit the museum's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://beach.k-state.edu/calendar">calendar</a>.

New Beach Museum of Art signature exhibition spotlights contemporary Kansas art

Birger Sandzén Memorial Art Gallery

LINDSBORG - Lawrence, Kansas, based sculptor Mark Cowardin will be doing a “chit chat” at the Birger Sandzen Memorial Gallery on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 2 p.m. The talk is a part of his Tallgrass Artist Residency and is free and open to the public.&nbsp;

Cowardin’s work examines the complicated, sometimes troubling and always compelling intersection between humans and the natural world. At the core is a keen awareness of a personal connection to the delicate environs of which he speaks. Much of the work begins with the observation of the absurd, illuminating the extreme beauty that ironically exists in some of humankind's' most damaging examples of consumption.

Mark Cowardin is a father, husband, artist, and educator. He received an MFA in sculpture from the University of Arizona and a BFA from the University of Kansas. His work is included in numerous private and public collections including the John Michael Kohler Art Center, Kohler Corporation, the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art, and Rockhurst University.

The Tallgrass Artist Residency is a program of the Kansas Arts Commission and is funded in part by the National Endowment for the Arts. 

Learn more at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://tallgrassartistresidency.org/">tallgrassartistresidency.org</a>.

Sandzen Gallery hosts 'chit chat' with artist from Lawrence, KS 

LINDSBORG - Bethany College is pleased to announce the appointment of Kurt Siklar as Assistant Professor of Business.

 An experienced professional with nearly 25 years of background in international logistics and supply chain management, he brings a unique combination of practical industry knowledge and a deep passion for education to his new role.

Siklar’s career includes experience at various organizations, from a small export merchant firm and a mid-sized high-tech manufacturer to a large exporting paper mill, where he oversaw overseas shipments of about twenty thousand ocean containers annually as Export Transportation Manager. His varied professional background, including roles as International Operations Manager, has given him a thorough understanding of global business operations.

A naturalized U.S. citizen since the early 1990s, Siklar has lived in five different states across the country due to his career, which has further expanded his perspective on business and culture. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Management, an M.B.A. in Business Management, and an M.A. in International Management Studies, and he is currently completing his Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) program at Wichita State University.

Siklar’s dedication to education became clear early in his career. While still working full-time in the industry, he served as an adjunct instructor for twenty years, teaching international business courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels, following his initial experience with onsite instruction at a community college. This extensive teaching background, combined with his&nbsp;participation in various international business roundtables and export advisory boards, strengthened his commitment to nurturing the next generation of global business leaders. 

In 2017, Siklar moved to full-time teaching, embracing what he calls his true passion: sharing his real-world knowledge and fostering academic growth in higher education.

“We are thrilled to welcome Professor Siklar to Bethany College,” said Angie Martin, Associate Professor of Accounting and Undergraduate Business Coordinator. “His extensive experience in international business, marketing, and data analytics, combined with his passion for teaching, will greatly enhance our program. He brings a real-world perspective that will help prepare our students to navigate today’s complex global economy.”

Outside of his professional and academic pursuits, Siklar enjoys traveling, exploring the arts, reading, and following sports, particularly soccer and track and field.

Bethany College is excited to welcome Kurt Siklar to campus in the fall. His global perspective, commitment to teaching, and wealth of real-world experience will be a valuable asset to our students and the college community. 

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

Bethany College welcomes new Assistant Professor of Business

A number of local hospitals have been designated as Blue Distinction® Centers (BDC) or Blue Distinction Centers+ (BDC+) for Spine Surgery and Knee and Hip Replacements by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS) as part of the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program.

Blue Distinction Center Specialty Programs identify hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) that demonstrate expertise in patient safety, deliver better health outcomes, and are more cost-effective. Quality assessments are based on objective measures developed from the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association’s (BCBSA) partnership with the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).

"The dedication of our provider partners to ensuring patients receive exceptional care is truly commendable," said Matt All, president/CEO of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas. "Each facility recognized as a Blue Distinction Center meets stringent quality standards across all aspects of spine surgery or knee and hip replacements, thereby delivering superior care to our members and all Kansans."

BCBSKS is proud to recognize the following BDC and BDC+ facilities. BDC are facilities that deliver quality care, safely and effectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;They include:

&nbsp;Salina Regional Health Center, Salina

University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus, Topeka

BDC+ are facilities that deliver quality care, safely and effectively, in addition to demonstrating more affordable care. BDC+ designated facilities also achieve cost savings of 23% for spine surgery and 30% for knee and hip replacements compared to all other facilities for these specialty care areas. They include:

Kansas Surgery and Recovery Center, Wichita

University of Kansas Health Systems St Francis Campus, Topeka

Facilities designated under the Knee and Hip Replacement and Spine Surgery programs demonstrate higher-quality care compared to non-Blue Distinction Center facilities, with an average of 28% fewer readmissions and 29% fewer complications within 90 days after spine surgery and 21% fewer readmissions and 21% fewer complications within 90 days of knee and hip replacement surgery.

Patients treated at designated facilities benefit from the expertise and advanced practices that lead to improved recovery times and reduced complications making a positive difference in their overall health journey.

These Blue Distinction Center programs help consumers find both quality and value for their specialty care needs, while also encouraging health care professionals to improve the overall delivery of care nationwide.

Only providers that meet nationally established quality measures will be considered for designation as both a Blue Distinction Center Spine Surgery and a Blue Distinction Center for Knee and Hip Replacement, which include:

Full accreditation by at least one of national accrediting organizations as either a hospital or ASC.

Low complication, mortality, and unplanned readmission rates within 90 days after primary spine surgery.

Have enhanced recovery after surgery processes and procedures in place for quality perioperative care.

Participation in BCBSKS BlueCard Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Network.

Full accreditation by at least one of the national accrediting organizations as either a hospital or ASC.

Low complication, mortality, and unplanned readmission rates within 90 days after elective primary total knee and hip replacements.

To further improve patient outcomes and inform treatment strategies in these specialty care areas, BCBSA utilized two robust sources for evidence-based performance measures and patient reported outcome measures: the American Spine Registry (ASR)—a collaborative effort between the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) and AAOS—and the American Joint Replacement Registry (AJRR).

Since 2005, the <a href="https://www.bcbs.com/about-us/programs-initiatives/blue-distinction-specialty-care">Blue Distinction Specialty Care program</a> has helped patients find quality specialty care—and, for those that meet the program’s cost criteria, at lower costs—in the areas of bariatric surgery, cancer care, cardiac care, cellular immunotherapy, fertility care, knee and hip replacement, maternity care, spine surgery, substance use treatment and recovery, and transplants, while encouraging health care professionals to improve the quality of care they deliver.

For more information about the program and for a complete listing of the designated providers, visit the<a href="https://www.bcbs.com/"> BCBSA website</a>.

All companies and trademarks listed above are the property of their respective owners and used for identification purposes only, and are in no way associated or affiliated with the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. Use of these trademarks does not imply endorsement. The Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® names and symbols and Blue Distinction® are registered trademarks of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas

For more than 80 years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas has built a reputation of trust with its members and contracting providers by providing outstanding customer service while quickly and accurately processing claims; fairly administering benefit plans and contracts; offering programs, services and tools to help members improve or maintain their health; and operating under the highest ethical standards while being good stewards of premium dollars. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and is the state’s largest insurer, serving all Kansas counties except Johnson and Wyandotte. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.bcbsks.com/">bcbsks.com</a>

About the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association is a national federation of independent, community based and locally operated Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies that collectively provide health care coverage for one in three Americans. BCBSA provides health care insights through The Health of America Report series and the national BCBS Health IndexSM. For more information on BCBSA and its member companies, please visit <a href="https://www.bcbs.com/">bcbs.com</a>.

Blue Distinction Centers (BDC) met overall quality measures, developed with input from the medical community. A Local Blue Plan may require additional criteria for providers located in its own service area; for details, contact your Local Blue Plan. Blue Distinction Centers+ (BDC+) also met cost measures that address consumers’ need for affordable healthcare. Each provider’s cost of care is evaluated using data from its Local Blue Plan. Providers in CA, ID, NY, PA, and WA may lie in two Local Blue Plans’ areas, resulting in two evaluations for cost of care; and their own Local Blue Plans decide whether one or both cost of care evaluation(s) must meet BDC+ national criteria. National criteria for BDC and BDC+ are displayed on <a href="https://www.bcbs.com/">www.bcbs.com</a>. Individual outcomes may vary. For details on a provider’s in network status or your own policy’s coverage, contact your Local Blue Plan and ask your provider before making an appointment. Neither Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association nor any Blue Plans are responsible for non covered charges or other losses or damages resulting from Blue Distinction or other provider finder information or care received from Blue Distinction or other providers.

BCBSK recognizes facilities for higher-quality spine surgery and knee/hip replacements through speciality program

MARION COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 1a.m. Saturday in Marion County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2025 Kawasaki driven by Justin B. Williamson, 22, Weiser, Idaho, was northbound on U.S. approximately three miles north of Florence.

The motorcyclist tried to pass another vehicle and struck a southbound 2019 Toyota Camry driven by Tina Ho, 19, Wichita, head-on with

Williamson was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Jost Funeral Home. Ho was properly restrained and not transported for treatment of a minor injury. The KHP released no additional details.

Motorcyclist dies after head-on crash on Kansas highway

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

*No image available for&nbsp;Rehman, Mohammad Awais*

REQUESTED CHARGE: Probation Violation

Saline County Jail Bookings, July 12

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Nick Loftin delivered his second game-winning hit in less than a week, driving in Tyler Tolbert from second base with a single in the ninth inning to give the Kansas City Royals a 3-2 win over the New York Mets on Sunday.

Tolbert singled off Sean Manaea, who had been dominant in relief in his season debut for the Mets. And when the speedster stole second base, that gave Loftin the chance to deliver another winner after his deciding single Tuesday against Pittsburgh.

Manaea (0-1), who had been out after straining an oblique in spring training and then developing an elbow issue during his rehab outings, allowed that lone run and five hits while striking out seven in 3 1/3 innings.

Noah Cameron delivered another brilliant start for Kansas City, scattering seven hits while matching a career best with eight strikeouts over 6 2/3 scoreless innings. And the rookie left-hander was in line for his fourth win when John Schreiber and Lucas Erceg shepherded a 2-0 lead — courtesy of John Rave's second-inning double — to All-Star closer Carlos Estévez.

Ronny Mauricio led off the ninth with a double off Estévez (4-2). Jeff McNeil followed with an RBI triple off the center-field wall, and fellow pinch hitter Jared Young delivered a sacrifice fly moments later to tie the game.

Clay Holmes allowed two runs and five hits and a walk over five innings for New York.

Tolbert entered the game in the eighth for Jac Caglianone for his defense. It wound up being his offense that mattered, helping the Royals avoid a three-game sweep heading into the All-Star break.

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