Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information (LMI) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.8% in August. This is unchanged from 3.8% in July and an increase from 3.7% in August 2024. The labor force participation rate for Kansas increased to 67.0% in August, according to a media release from the KDOL.

The unemployment rate in Saline County remained steady at 3.8 percent in August. The rate in Dickinson County is up a tick from 4.3 percent in July to 4.4 percent in August.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment decreased by 4,700 from July. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs decreased by 1,300 over the month, while government decreased by 3,400. The largest job gains in the private sector were in&nbsp;leisure and hospitality&nbsp;(+600 jobs). The largest decrease was in trade, transportation, and utilities&nbsp;(-2,100 jobs).

Jobless rate remains steady in Saline County

Victim of domestic violence calls police several days after the incident, resulting in arrest of the suspect.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Friday, September 19 at around 4:00 pm, a 46-year old woman reported she was assaulted by a man several days earlier on September 14th.

Reportedly, at an apartment complex in the 100 block of N. 8th, the woman arrived home at around midnight on the 14th. When she arrived, her acquaintance identified as 50-year old James Blundell, was inside the apartment and became 'aggressive,' threatening her.&nbsp;

SPD stated that drugs and alcohol were believed to be a factor.

Moreover, the woman tried to leave the apartment, but Blundell blocked her from leaving and threatened to kill her if she called 9-1-1. Allegedly, Blundell grabbed the woman and threw her. She suffered injuries to her arm and finger. 

SPD said, the woman did not call police that night 'for fear of her life.' However, the woman was able to leave the apartment.&nbsp;

On the 19th, she reported the incident to SPD. Later that same day, law enforcement located and arrested Blundell in the 200 block of W. Crawford. He was booked into the Saline County Jail on the following requested charges:

Criminal Threat, Criminal Restraint, Aggravated Intimidation of a Witness, Domestic Battery, Possession of a Hallucinogenic Drug, Possession of an Opiate and Drug Paraphernalia.&nbsp;

Suspect of domestic violence arrested after victim calls several days later 

The Salina City Commission will hold its regular meeting on September 22, 2025. The meeting will begin at 4:00 pm inside Room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street.

For those who cannot attend the meeting, you can watch the livestream today on YouTube at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.

1. Consider approval of the minutes of the September 8, 2025, regular meeting.

1. Consider a project authorization for the design, purchase and installation of a splash pad for Jerry Ivey Memorial Park in the amount of $709,165.00 and authorize the City Manager to authorize the purchase and installation of a splash pad upon the fulfillment of all prerequisites under the purchasing policy.

2. Consider authorizing the City Manager to enter into an Axon Master Service and Purchasing Agreement with Axon, Inc. for the purposes of consolidating separate existing contracts.

1. Aero Plains Development Agreement Amendment and MIH-ARPA Grant Agreement Amendment (a) Consider approval of Resolution No. 25-8311 adopting Amendment No. 3 to the Building Kansas, LLC Development Agreement.

- (b) Consider approval of Resolution No. 25-8312 recommending and supporting an amendment to the Moderate Income Housing (MIH) grant agreement between Kansas Housing Resource Corporation and the City regarding Building Kansas, LLC.

2. Consider approval of Resolution No. 25-8310 authorizing the mayor to execute a License Agreement with Building Kansas, LLC for installation of a sign in the center island located at the intersection of Centennial Road and Lindbergh Lane.

3.&nbsp;Consider approval of Resolution No. 25-8309 proclaiming support for an application by KC Development, LLC to submit a Kansas Housing Investor Tax Credit (KHITC) application for properties in the Stone Lake Addition.

4. Consider an amendment to the Pioneer Presidents’ Place Planned Development District (PDD) to make the following changes:

- Repeal the limitation that all dwellings must be occupied by elderly people (ages 55+) to allow residents of all ages to occupy the apartment complex.

- Allow two (2) ground signs (one sign for each building).

- Modify the number of off-street parking spaces required for the apartment complex from 102 off-street parking spaces to 58 off-street parking spaces. 

- Amend and update the landscape planting plan.

Residents are invited to share their comments with the commission.

New bid for splash pad at Jerry Ivey Park to be proposed Salina City Commission Sept. 22 agenda

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

Salina Post obituary policy (subject to change)

Salina Post understands the importance of honoring the deceased and welcomes all submissions of obituaries with a full summary of their life, survivors, services, website of the funeral home and a photo.

Salina Post accepts all obituaries&nbsp;free of charge&nbsp;and you can email all obituaries:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@salinapost.com">admin@salinapost.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com">nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;and will be posted on the website within 24 business hours.

If you have an issue outside of business hours, if your obituary has not been published within 24 business hours, or if have any questions, please email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@salinapost.com">admin@salinapost.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com">nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com</a>

You can also contact:&nbsp;(785) 656-9856&nbsp;during business hours.

Recent obituaries and service times

Salina artist Rick&nbsp;Frisbie&nbsp;calls on his small-town upbringing for inspiration for “Proud Americans,” the next exhibit at The Gallery, Sams Hall of Fine Arts, on the Kansas Wesleyan campus.

The paintings and oil paintings will be on display from September, 24 to October 29. A reception for&nbsp;Frisbie&nbsp;will be from 5:00-6:30 pm on Friday, October 24.

His sense of patriotism comes from his upbringing on a cattle farm on the outskirts of Gypsum, Kan.

“The experience of growing up in a small town in middle America created a sense of responsibility and pride in me that has never left,”&nbsp;Frisbie&nbsp;said. “I hope something in this exhibition will stir you to focus your thoughts on what you are proud of.”

Frisbie is a long-time artist and teacher in the Salina area. His painting of Pioneer Hall graced the 2022 Kansas Wesleyan Christmas card.

The Gallery at KWU is free and open to the public.

Local artist showcases "Proud Americans" art exhibit at KWU

<a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Salina&amp;state=KS&amp;site=ICT&amp;lat=38.8158&amp;lon=-97.6178">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Monitor local weather updates frequently in multiple ways by listening to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/nwr/">NOAA Weather Radio</a>, checking local news and emergency notifications. You can also stay informed by following Saline County and the National Weather Service on social media.

For the latest forecast updates, visit the National Weather Service Wichita office at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">https://www.weather.gov/ict/</a>. To check forecasts frequently, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">weathe</a>

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 22 - September 24

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;Probation Violation; Failure to appear (3 requested charges)

Saline County Jail Bookings, September 22

NAME:&nbsp;Acuna Marenco, Edilso Rafael

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Failure to appear; Outside warrant/NCIC hit

NAME:&nbsp;Arneson Worley, Ashlee Nichole

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body; Poss of marijuana; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

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

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Agg intimidation of witness/victim; Threat; Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption; Criminal restraint; Domestic Battery: rude physical contact; Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor; Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

NAME:&nbsp;Breitmeyer, Caden Aldric Lee

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Contribute to a child misconduct; Unknown circumstance; Crim discharge of firearm;public road

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/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;Lawrence, Nathan Lovejoy

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body; Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose misd warrant; Poss of marijuana

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Contribute to a child misconduct; Unknown circumstance; Crim discharge of firearm;public road

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

Saline County Jail Bookings, September 21

The dates for the annual BOOM! Salina has officially been announced for the 2025 season.

Monday, September 29 - Saturday, October 4, will be a week full of breathtaking artwork from artists across the world that will showcase their murals to the community of Salina. This year will introduce four artists joining the festival's lineup such as:&nbsp;

- Drew Merritt: Clovis, New Mexico (now based in Los Angeles)

- John Matos, "Crash One": Bronx, New York&nbsp;

- Stathis Tsavalias, "Insane51": Athens, Greece

- Amy Sol:&nbsp;Las Vegas, Nevada

Please note that some artists may show up earlier than the listed dates.

The following are bios of each artist courtesy of BOOM! Salina

Drew Merritt is a contemporary muralist and fine artist whose evocative works bridge classical portraiture with modern street art. Born on the outskirts of Clovis, New Mexico, Merritt was raised on a farm and cattle ranch, where he cultivated his artistic talents without formal training. His early exposure to graffiti-covered cargo trains ignited a passion for art that would later manifest in large-scale murals and oil paintings. Merritt’s art often explores themes of contrast and conflict, placing classical subjects in contemporary settings to evoke a broad spectrum of emotions, from pleasure to isolation. Now based in Los Angeles, Merritt continues to develop an ever-changing body of work that encompasses a variety of mediums and textures. His murals and paintings are characterized by their romanticized, timeless quality, often leaning into a neo-western aesthetic as an homage to his upbringing . By guiding his audience through a world of emotions and evoking empathy, Merritt’s work invites viewers to imagine the stories behind his subjects, offering a clear visual biography that reflects the way they are created.

John Matos, widely recognized by his moniker “Crash,” is a pioneering figure in the graffiti art movement, originating from the Bronx, New York. Embarking on his artistic journey at the tender age of 13, Crash began adorning subway cars with his distinctive style, marking the inception of a career that would bridge the gap between street art and the formal art world. His transition from the underground to mainstream recognition was catalyzed in 1980 when he curated the groundbreaking exhibition “Graffiti Art Success for America” at Fashion MODA, a pivotal event that propelled graffiti into the realm of contemporary art. Crash’s work, characterized by vivid colors and dynamic compositions, has since been showcased in numerous galleries and museums globally, cementing his status as a seminal artist in the evolution of urban art. Beyond the canvas, Crash has extended his artistic influence through collaborations with prominent brands, including Absolut Vodka, Fender Guitars, and Tumi luggage, blending commercial appeal with his unique aesthetic. Notably, his custom-painted “Crashocaster” guitars, created for legendary musician Eric Clapton, exemplify the fusion of visual art and music. As a co-owner of WallWorks New York, Crash continues to nurture emerging talent and contribute to the cultural fabric of his hometown. His enduring legacy is reflected in his commitment to authenticity and innovation, inspiring a new generation of artists to explore the transformative power of graffiti.

Stathis Tsavalias, professionally known as Insane51, is a Greek muralist born in Athens in 1992. He began his journey in street art as a graffiti writer in 2007 and studied at the Athens School of Fine Arts, with additional training in graphic and applied arts. Early in his career, he focused on experimental techniques involving color and form, but he later refined his style towards photorealism and innovative overlay mural methods. His signature technique, dubbed “Double Exposure 3D” or anaglyph murals, involves layering two distinct images—one in red, one in cyan—that reveal themselves through 3D glasses or filters, crafting an immersive visual experience. Over the past decade, Insane51 has showcased his work at prominent festivals and galleries globally—including Upfest in Bristol, Urban Nation in Berlin, and the Underdogs Gallery in Lisbon. His murals, often featuring hyperrealistic portraits overlaid with skeletal or symbolic forms, bend optics and challenge viewers’ perceptions. A Guinness World Record holder for the largest glow-in-the-dark graffiti scroll and the most expansive 3D mural, he continues to push the boundaries of street art with his blend of technical mastery, optical illusion, and emotive storytelling.

Amy Sol is an American artist of Korean descent, currently based in Las Vegas, Nevada, whose work is celebrated within the Pop‑Surreal and Lowbrow movements. Entirely self‑taught, Sol typically paints on treated wooden panels, allowing the natural grain to inform her subdued, atmospheric color palette—like a musical rhythm guiding the composition. Her serene paintings often depict delicate, young female figures interacting with oversized or mythical animals within ethereal landscapes, evoking themes of companionship, introspection, and mysticism. Over the past decade, Sol has built a strong global presence through gallery exhibitions, art fairs, and mural installations—most notably contributing to URBAN NATION’s Project M/14 in Berlin. Her visual language draws from manga, folk art, classical animation, and vintage illustration, blending narrative and figurative styles to create dreamlike realms open to individual interpretation. By merging whimsical flora and fauna with contemplative human figures in muted, pastel tones, Sol crafts evocative compositions that feel both timeless and intimately personal.

For more information, go to:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.boomsalina.art/">https://www.boomsalina.art/</a>

BOOM! Salina 2025 dates officially announced: Four artists joining the festival's lineup

ABILENE - The Eisenhower Foundation’s "I Like Ike" Capital Campaign is well underway, raising funds for a new state-of-the-art Education Center aimed at inspiring future generations through innovative learning and civic engagement.

“We celebrated The Eisenhower Foundation’s 80th anniversary on June 22,” said Emily Miller, Director of Development for the Eisenhower Foundation. “This capital campaign is our way to make sure our organization secures Ike’s legacy for another 80 years.”

The Foundation is at 74% of its $17 million dollar goal, having already received substantial support from the Sunderland Foundation in Overland Park, the Patterson Family Foundation in Kansas City, Missouri, the William T. Kemper Foundation in Kansas City, Missouri, and the Anne C. Eagles estate. Additionally, the Foundation’s board of directors has come together to make a collective six-figure donation. 

The State of Kansas has also pledged a $5 million matching grant.

The center will serve both public and K–12 audiences through in-person and online programming. It will feature several dynamic elements, including an Oval Office replica that will offer visitors a tangible connection to Eisenhower’s time in office; a state-of-the-art Immersion Theater that will use four-wall projection to fully engage audiences in historical and educational experiences; and a Global Studio that will enable programs to be broadcast nationally and internationally.

If completed on schedule, the Education Center is set to open in 2026, coinciding with the United States’ 250th birthday.

“Only 45 individuals have held the Office of the President of the United States,” Miller said. “Here in Abilene, we have one of those individuals. This new center will be our birthday gift to America.”

For those interested in supporting the I Like Ike Capital Campaign or learning more, visit <a href="http://bit.ly/IKECapitalCampaign">bit.ly/IKECapitalCampaign</a>.

People who make between now and the end of 2025 will be entered into a leather-bound book that will be presented during the grand opening ceremonies of the Education Center.

Eisenhower Foundation at 74% of its $17 million goal for new state-of-the-art Education Center

The Salina Airport Authority is proud to welcome&nbsp;Tricrest Aviation Insurance&nbsp;as the newest tenant based at the Salina Airport Industrial Center. Officially opening its doors in 2024, <a href="https://www.tricrestinsurance.com/">Tricrest Insurance Agency LLC</a> brings a fresh, data-driven approach to aviation insurance, now backed by a physical presence in one of the Midwest’s most dynamic aviation hubs.

Founded by licensed pilot and aerospace engineer Kyri Barton, who also serves as President, and Chief Operating Officer, Tricrest was built on the belief that pilots and aviation professionals deserve insurance solutions grounded in technical expertise and a deep understanding of risk. “Flying is part of my identity,” said Barton. “After years in systems engineering and advanced risk modeling—ranging from satellite navigation to aircraft systems and predictive maintenance—it became clear that my technical experience could directly improve how aviation insurance is done. I wanted to create a firm where pilots feel understood and supported—not just quoted.”

From its new location at Building 412, 2804 Arnold Avenue, Room 116, Tricrest offers a full suite of aviation insurance products tailored to the needs of pilots, aircraft owners, charter operations, flight schools, and maintenance facilities. Services include hull and liability coverage, hangar keepers’ liability, workers’ compensation, commercial aviation policies, and more. The agency also provides face-to-face consultations, policy reviews, and claims support—all just steps from the hangars.

Tricrest’s decision to locate in Salina was no coincidence. “Salina offers unmatched access to agricultural aviation, flight training, and aerospace innovation,” said Barton. “Being based at the airport allows us to work side-by-side with our clients, building trust and providing real-time risk support that goes far beyond a phone call.”

Kyri Barton also shared why bringing Tricrest home to Salina was personal as well as professional:

“I’m proud to be a Salina native. I’ve lived in this town, across the country, and even overseas—but there’s nothing quite like your hometown. Salina has a sense of community, character, and groundedness that’s hard to find anywhere else. It’s where my love of aviation first took root, and where I learned the value of hard work, trust, and showing up for your neighbors.

Coming back wasn’t just about launching a business—it was about coming home. With so much growth happening at the airport and in the broader aviation community, it felt like the right time to bring everything I’ve learned back to the place that shaped me. I’m excited to grow Tricrest here and to give back to a town that’s always been part of my story.”

Initially staffed by two full-time team members, Tricrest plans to grow its Salina operation thoughtfully, with future expansions in client services and aviation risk management. The team is actively developing partnerships with local aviation businesses and programs at K-State Salina to support education, training, and safety across the region.

“We’re thrilled to add Tricrest Aviation Insurance to our community of forward-looking aviation businesses,” said Pieter Miller, Executive Director for the Salina Airport Authority. “Their technical knowledge, client-first approach, and passion for aviation make them a natural fit for the Salina Regional Airport.”

To learn more about Tricrest Aviation Insurance or schedule a consultation, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tricrestinsurance.com/" target="_blank">www.tricrestinsurance.com&nbsp;</a>or contact their Salina office (785) 333-4590, open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with 24/7 customer service available for urgent needs.

SLN welcomes aviation insurance provider to serve the flight industry

Scattered storms are possible to develop this evening across Central Kansas.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), these storms have a chance of occurring late tonight with stronger storms capable of producing hail up to quarter size. However, the severity is marginal and chances are low throughout the region.

For the latest forecast updates, visit the National Weather Service Wichita office at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">https://www.weather.gov/ict/</a>. To check forecasts frequently, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">weather.gov</a>.

Scattered storms possible to occur late tonight in Central Kansas

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 19 - September 21

Showers and thunderstorms expected to continue today and into Thursday throughout the Central Kansas region.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms have impacted central and north-central Kansas this morning. Locally heavy rainfall will be the primary hazard. However, activity should tend to gradually dissipate as the morning progresses.

A few strong to marginally severe thunderstorms are possible after 4:00 pm today, mainly along the west of Flint Hills.&nbsp;

These showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue into Thursday.

Showers and thunderstorms expected to continue into Thursday, heavy rainfall anticipated

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 17 - September 19

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 15 - September 17

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 12 - September 14

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 10 - September 12

The US National Weather Service has issued a flood warning for Saline County, that has officially taken into effect now and will remain until Wednesday of this week.

According to Saline County Emergency Management, water levels for rivers and creeks have continued to rise from Monday's heavy rainfall. It was estimated between 4 to 10 inches of rain have already fallen across the county, leading to&nbsp;flooded roadways in Brookville&nbsp;and&nbsp;many rural routes that are waterlogged or impassable.

Additional rainfall is expected to occur late tonight (Monday, September 8) into Tuesday morning.&nbsp;Scattered showers and storms are possible, mainly east of Saline County.

Moreover, additional showers and storms are expected to develop from the west on Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, bringing extra heavy rainfall.

Then late Wednesday night into Thursday morning, another round of storms are possible.

Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, allow extra time for commutes and use alternate routes where needed.

Expected to crest at 26.5 feet late tonight into Tuesday afternoon (Moderate Flood Stage). At this level, widespread agricultural flooding is expected. If high flow continues on the Saline River, water could back up on Mulberry Creek, flooding properties including the KOA campground.

Expected to crest at 26.6 feet late Wednesday morning or early afternoon (Minor Flood Stage).

UPDATE: Flood warning issued through Wednesday in Saline County

Storms from this morning throughout Central KS are expected to now continue past noon.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS) the scattered showers and thunderstorms throughout Central KS are expected to now continue past noon on Monday.

The National Weather Service also expects a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms to occur tonight in Salina.

Please be aware of the roads as localized flooding is possible.

UPDATE: Central KS storms continue past noon

TACOMA, Wash. (AP) — The Army has released the names of four soldiers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/army-helicopter-crash-washington-lewis-mcchord-8152a3942e01071d24b0540c8bb169d3">killed Wednesday when the military helicopter they were on crashed</a>&nbsp;near a base in Washington state.

The victims are chief warrant officers Andrew Cully and Andrew Kraus, and sergeants Donavon Scott and Jadalyn Good, the Army said Monday in a release.

Cully, 35, was from Sparta, Missouri. Kraus, 39, was from Sanibel, Florida. Scott, 25, was from Tacoma, Washington, and Good, 23, was from Mount Vernon, Washington.

The helicopter was on a routine flight training west of Joint Base Lewis-McChord, according to the U.S. Army Special Operations Command.

The base is about 10 miles (16 kilometers) south of Tacoma under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Joint Base Headquarters.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation. The skies in the area were mostly clear with light winds from the south around the time of the crash, according to the National Weather Service.

The soldiers “embodied the unwavering dedication, selflessness, and excellence that define the very spirit of the Army and Army Special Operations,” Col. Stephen Smith said in the release.

They were part of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, an elite team that does nighttime missions, when their MH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crashed about 9 p.m.

The regiment’s mission is to organize, equip and employ Army special operations aviation forces around the world, according to the Army’s website.

“Known as Night Stalkers, these soldiers are recognized for their proficiency in nighttime operations,” the website said. “They are highly trained and ready to accomplish the very toughest missions in all environments, anywhere in the world, day or night, with unparalleled precision.”

This was the second deadly crash of this elite unit in recent years.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/helicopter-crash-military-mediterranean-496af1a724bced44fc6bcd674c226f2a">Five Army aviation special operations forces</a>&nbsp;were killed when a helicopter crashed in the Eastern Mediterranean in 2023 during a routine air refueling mission as part of military training. They were all part of the Army’s 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment based at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

In March 2024, two soldiers from the Joint Base Lewis-McChord SOAR unit&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jblm-military-helicopter-crash-bccebea6ab1001e89c7c09c949273698">were hospitalized</a>&nbsp;when their Apache helicopter crashed at the base during a routine training exercise.

Army identifies 4 soldiers killed in Black Hawk helicopter crash 

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a drive by shooting have made three arrests.

&nbsp;Just before 7p.m. September 17, police were dispatched to a drive-by shooting at a residence in the 2300 block of South Lulu in Wichita, according to a media release. The home, occupied by a 56-year-old man and a 23-year-old man, was struck by gunfire. Fortunately, no one was injured.

Responding patrol officers, supported by the Patrol South Community Response Team, immediately began collecting evidence and quickly identified a suspect vehicle.

On September 18, 2025, officers from the Property Crimes Response Team and the Violent Crimes Response Team continued the investigation. Working with detectives, they located the suspect vehicle at a residence in south Wichita. When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the suspects fled. With assistance from the Kansas Highway Patrol Air Support Unit, officers tracked the vehicle until it stopped, and the three suspects fled on foot.

All three suspects, 42-year-old Bruce Mabry, 46-year-old Phillip Peach Two Hatchett, identified in Sedgwick County booking records, and a a 22-year-old woman were apprehended shortly after. Officers also recovered two handguns from the suspect vehicle.

Following interviews conducted by detectives with the Major Crimes Unit Mabry was booked on requested charges of&nbsp;Aggravated Assault, Criminal Discharge of a Firearm, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Two Hatchett was booked on requested charges of&nbsp;Aggravated Assault and Criminal Discharge of a Firearm.

The facts of this case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office for formal charging consideration.

Suspects accused of shooting at a Kansas home

K-State wants to waive 120 credit hour minimum, offer 90-hour BS in drone science

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents paused review of a proposal from Kansas State University to offer a 90 credit hour bachelor’s degree in uncrewed aircraft systems that necessitated waiver of state policy mandating 120 hours of course credit to earn an undergraduate degree.

The hesitancy resulted from questions about how approval of K-State’s plan could alter the academic landscape of the state’s system of 32 public universities, community colleges and technical colleges. On Thursday, members of the Board of Regents raised issues with how potential students and higher education institutions, as well as business and industry, might respond if Kansas amended the foundational premise of a four-year degree.

The Board of Regents agreed to convene a task force to consider development of a systemwide policy before taking up proposals to sidestep existing rules requiring a bachelor’s degree to represent at least 120 credit hours of study.

“We don’t want to stymie the process,” said Alysia Johnston, a member of the Board of Regents. “This needs a whole lot of thought and input.”

Jesse Perez Mendez, provost at K-State, said the university welcomed the opportunity to participate in the task force’s debate. He said the drone bachelor’s degree for K-State’s aviation campus in Salina had been under consideration along with reduced-credit degrees related to artificial intelligence.

“This is a little bit of a game changer overall and we need to be very cautious,” Mendez said. “What this conversation is not about? It’s not about taking a bachelor’s degree in psychology and reduce that down to three years. It’s with degrees we don’t have on the books.”

He said K-State was committed to collaborating with two-year community colleges and technical colleges on alternative degree offerings.

Board of Regents policy, but not state law, established a bachelor’s degree consist of at least 120 credit hours. Policy says 45 credits must be in upper-division courses. Kansas higher education has been under pressure to recruit students as the U.S. college-age population fell. At the same time, the cost of delivering college instruction kept escalating with inflation.

Heather Morgan, executive director of the Kansas Community College Association, said the 19 community colleges in Kansas had taken a keen interest in reform of laws or policies related to reduced-credit degrees.

She said issues to consider included retention of policy permitting community college students to transfer credits in core subject classes to a university. Supplemental degree models should respond to industry demands and tap into combined potential of the state’s higher education institutions, she said.

“One of the things we’ve been talking about is how do we use the assets we already have more efficiently and deploy expertise from a faculty perspective across all our colleges,” Morgan said.

Rusty Monhollon, vice president for academic affairs with the state Board of Regents, said the system had sought for the past decade to increase on-time graduation rates by reducing baccalaureate programs to 120 credit hours. The percentage of undergraduate programs in the Board of Regents system with more than 120 required credit hours decreased from 67% to 8%.

Nationally, he said, the movement to accredit reduced-credit bachelor’s degrees was deepening. In September 2024, the Higher Learning Commission, which accredits Kansas colleges and universities, released guidelines reduced-credit bachelor’s degrees.

Since March, nine U.S. colleges received HLC accreditation of alternative degrees. The list included business administration, information technology, pre-physical therapy, pre-athletic training, fashion business management, semiconductor materials and devices and applied cybersecurity.

“Proponents of these degrees claim they are affordable and match up well with workplace skills demand,” Monhollon said. “Others dismiss them, arguing industry does not recognize them and that they lack the scope and the depth of traditional bachelor’s degrees.”

He offered a range of questions that might be weighed: Would three-year degrees be valued by students, industry and in academic circles? Could reduced-credit bachelor’s degrees cheapen the value of a four-year degree? What would be cut — basic subjects or advanced classes — to shrink course requirements? What should a reduced-credit degree be called? Could Kansas run a pilot program to test supply and demand? What was the range for reduced-credit programs — 90 to 105 credit hours? How would it impact the system’s general education agreements? How should graduate school process applications from students with three-year degrees?

“Not all segments could fit into the three-year degree,” said Neelima Parasker, a member of the Board of Regents. “We have to go to industry and ask them for their feedback instead of just floating this and seeing what they do.”

Blake Benson, chairman of the Board of Regents, said he was curious if estimates could be made for how many new students would enroll in the state’s public education system if reduced-credit bachelor’s degrees were an option.

Board of Regents member Diana Mendoza said the term used to describe a reduced-credit degree was consequential. She asked if it could be referred to as a workforce specialist degree to help potential employers differentiate between three- and four-year diplomas.

Kathy Wolfe Moore, another member of the state board, said she was concerned Kansas’ higher education system could become “a bit of a slave to the employment fluctuations” in the business cycle.

“I’m quite sure this board … would have no interest in moving our system backward,” said Blake Flanders, who serves as CEO and president of the Board of Regents.

Flanders said expansion of reduced-credit degree programs in Kansas would be complex, but possible if crafted with attention to detail. The cost of eroding confidence in the value of a Kansas bachelor’s degree could be significant, he said.

“If we’re thinking&nbsp; about, ‘Well, let’s just skinny down or gut that systemwide general education and get all of our savings out of those credits,’ I think, obviously, this board would believe that would be a huge mistake,” he said.

Kansas Board of Regents to study potential of allowing reduced-credit bachelor’s degrees

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Seven people were injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Sunday in Wyandotte County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Ford Fusion driven by Julian Wahnee, 34, Topeka, was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Bonner Springs exit.&nbsp; The driver lost control and the car began to roll.&nbsp;

The car struck three pedestrians standing on the shoulder of the highway near a disabled Chevrolet Impala in the right ditch.

EMS transported Wahnee and three passengers in the car including Rebecca Unzueta, 27, Topeka, a 14-year-old girl and an 8-year-old boy to KU Medical Center.&nbsp; EMS transported two of the pedestrians Dylan Birkenbaugh, 22, Topeka and Jason Kautzman, 23, Osage City, to KU Medical Center. The other pedestrian Jesse Colwell, 26, Topeka, was transported to Overland Park Regional Medical Center.&nbsp; 

The driver and passengers in the Ford were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

7 hospitalized after rollover crash strikes pedestrians on I-70

SEDGWICK COUNTY — A Kansas teen charged for her role in an acid attack on another teen was back in court Friday.&nbsp;

Tayronnia West, who was 18 at the time of the crime, pled guilty to Reckless Aggravated Battery, severity level 5, person felony, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. She is scheduled for sentencing on November 5.

In June Judge Tyler Rousch sentenced West's accomplice Ye'Kira Acoya Hollins, who was 18, at the time of the crime, to 34 months in prison and 24 months of post-release supervision, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

In May, a jury found Hollins guilty of aggravated battery.

In May of 2024, police responded to a disturbance in the 400 block of N Dodge in Wichita, according to Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses. The victim in this case, an 18-year-old girl later arrived at an area hospital with second degree burns to the face and neck believed to be caused by a suspect throwing an acidic liquid on her during a fight.&nbsp;

Immediately following the incident, investigators with the Wichita Police Felony Assault unit along with patrol officers began looking for the suspects. On June 5, officers with the Patrol North Community Response Team located and arrested Hollins and accomplice&nbsp;Tayronnia Jontashia West. In March of 2025, police also arrested a 17-year-old girl in connection with the case.

Kansas teen enters plea for acid attack on another girl

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a woman who took a joy ride in a city bus in Lawrence.

Jut after 11a.m. Friday,&nbsp; a woman forced her way into the driver’s seat and took off in a Lawrence Transit bus, according to a statement from police.  Nobody was hurt. 

 The driver and two passengers got off the bus before the woman  left the Central Transit Station. The woman took the bus north on Iowa, east on 6th, then north on Maine traveling about 35-40 mph.

   Officers were able to surround the bus to pin her in near 2nd and Michigan. Officers safely took her into custody then to the hospital for evaluation.

Police: Kansas woman in custody after driving off in city bus 

GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;praised&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-shooting-utah-university-republicans-8357c3d102de09e3320fde761258131a">Charlie Kirk</a>&nbsp;as a “great American hero” and “martyr” for freedom as he and other prominent conservatives gathered Sunday evening to honor the slain conservative political activist whose work they say they must now advance.

The memorial service for Kirk, whom Trump credits with playing a pivotal role in his 2024 election victory, drew tens of thousands of mourners, including Vice President JD Vance, other senior administration officials and young conservatives shaped by the 31-year-old firebrand.

Elon Musk arrives at the memorial service- CSPAN

President Trump and Elon Musk shake hands&nbsp; at Charlie Kirk memorial service.

(Click below to watch a replay of the full service)

“He’s a martyr now for America’s freedom,” Trump said in his tribute. “I know I speak for everyone here today when I say that none of us will ever forget Charlie. And neither now will history.”

Speakers highlighted Kirk’s profound faith and his strong belief that young conservatives need to get married, build families and pass on their values to keep building their movement. They also repeatedly told conservative activists, sometimes in confrontational tones, that the best way to honor Kirk was doubling down on his mission to move American politics further to the right.

Local

Region

Sports

Weather