National Library week is underway at the Salina Public Library. From April 6-12, the library invites the community to join in recognizing the many reasons people are drawn to their local library.

Is it the books that spark imagination? The quiet corners for creativity? The meaningful connections made? Whatever it is that draws patrons in, the library wants to hear about it! Throughout the week, visitors can share their favorite aspects of the library and be entered to win a prize.

Celebrate with us all week!&nbsp;Each day features a special theme to highlight the unique ways libraries serve their communities:

Throughout the week, the Salina Public Library will also be offering treats and special activities to show appreciation for the community’s continued support.

Join us in celebrating National Library Week! Stop by, share what draws you to the library, and be part of this exciting event.

For more information about Salina Public Library, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://salinapubliclibrary.org/">salinapubliclibrary.org</a>.

Salina Public Library celebrates National Library Week

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

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

Looking for a new podcast to keep you informed and connected within your local community? Look no further than Eagle Media's latest podcast, "King in the Community."&nbsp;

Join Eagle Media Salina News Director Nate King as he talks with local and regional government officials, first responders, non-profit leaders and unique individuals with fascinating stories from north central Kansas and beyond. Learn about how organizations in your neighborhood leverage their partnerships to create a more interconnected community.

Available on all your favorite platforms, including&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/king-in-the-community/id1687185014">Apple podcasts,</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://kinginthecommunity.podbean.com/">Podbean</a>,<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1ZeCj4TK3kaOZEvgQaDlio">&nbsp;Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c78f2e2e-c714-4aaf-ad4c-4864a4038889">Amazon Audible</a>, TuneIn + Alexa,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/king-in-the-community-5324914">Podchaser,</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.boomplaymusic.com/podcasts/62430">Boomplay</a>.&nbsp;

No matter what streaming service you use, we've got you covered with engaging discussions and insightful interviews that will help you understand the issues that matter most to you.&nbsp; So why wait? Tune in to the "King in the Community" podcast today and discover a new way to stay connected.

For a full list of episodes<a href="https://kinginthecommunity.podbean.com/page/2/">&nbsp;click here</a>. Thanks for listening!

🎙The latest from 'King in the Community' with Nate King

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our news tip email address. Have a breaking news story, a community event, or a feel-good story that deserves to be shared? 

Submit your news tips via email to <a href="http://newstips@salinapost.com">newstips@salinapost.com</a>

Whether you're a Salina local, a native Kansan, or have moved out of state, we want to hear from you. Your contributions help us keep our community informed and engaged. 

So, if you have a story to tell or a photo of breaking news we should know about, send it to newstips@salinapost.com.

Salina Post news tip email address

Salina Post is thrilled to announce an exciting update - we are now accepting letters to the editor from our readers. We believe that our community's voices deserve to be heard, and providing a platform for open dialogue and constructive discussions is essential to a strong free press.&nbsp;

With the new letters to the editor offering, we aim to create a space where readers can express their thoughts, concerns, and ideas on a wide range of local topics that impact their daily lives.&nbsp;

Submitting a letter to the editor is simple. Just email your letter to <a href="mailto:admin@salinapost.com">admin@salinapost.com</a>

Ensure that your letter is concise and respectful. We value thoughtful and constructive discussions, so please make sure to present your arguments in a clear and coherent manner.

While we appreciate and encourage diverse perspectives, we also have certain guidelines in place. Letters should be free from hate speech, name-calling or any form of discrimination. We believe in promoting a respectful and inclusive environment for all readers.

Our editorial team will review all submissions and select letters that align with our guidelines and contribute positively to the conversation. We may edit letters for clarity, grammar, and length, but we will strive to maintain the essence of your message.

We are excited about this new opportunity to amplify your voice and encourage you to take advantage of this platform.

So, whether you have a burning issue or an important message to share, we invite you to submit a letter to the editor. Let's come together, learn from each other, and build a stronger community through the power of words.

All letters must include the author's name. No anonymous letters to the editor will be published, but if you have a news tip or an issue you would like us to know about still reach out via email at newstips@salinapost.com

<a href="https://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/advocacy/direct-action/letters-to-editor/main">Information Courtesy University of Kansas Community Toolbox</a>

You feel strongly about an issue, and you want to let people know what you think. You believe you can even influence people to take some action if you speak your mind. But, you want to reach an audience larger than just your friends or your group membership. Letters to the editor can be an effective way to get the word out.

A letter to the editor is a written way of talking to a newspaper, magazine, or other regularly printed publication. Letters to the editor are generally found in the first section of the newspaper, or towards the beginning of a magazine, or in the editorial page. They can take a position for or against an issue, or simply inform, or both. They can convince readers by using emotions, or facts, or emotions and facts combined. 

Letters to the editor are usually short and tight, rarely longer than 300 words.

Using a few carefully placed letters, you can generate plenty of community discussion. You can also keep an issue going by preventing it from disappearing from the public eye. You can stimulate the interest of the news media and create more coverage for the matters you're working on. You can also send a "good news" letter to bring recognition to people who deserve it or acknowledge the success of an effort.

Salina Post accepting letters to the editor

The Salina League of Women Voters held its 2024 General Election Forum on Oct. 20 at 1:30 in the Watson Room at the Stiefel Theatre in Salina. 

Click the link above to watch the candidates answer questions from the media and the public. Candidates present at the forum included Senate District 24-John Baker, House District 69-Lori Blake, and Clarke Sanders; Saline County Commission District 2-Annie Grevas and Kathleen Malone Crouch.

Noticeably absent from the forum was State Senator J.R. Claeys, whose empty chair and name card can be seen on the far left of the table of candidates.&nbsp;

Check Salina Post for an article about the candidate's responses on Tuesday, Oct. 22.

2024 League of Women Voters General Election Candidate Forum

Due to damages from Sunday's severe weather, the bridge and road south of Wilson, Kansas will NOT be open by Memorial Day, May 27.&nbsp;

According to the Ellsworth County Highway Department, a date has not been set for the road/bridge to reopen.&nbsp;

Plan an alternate route if you plan to travel in the area.&nbsp;

READ MORE<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3969fc82-b07d-4d4e-885d-fe75a7799560">:&nbsp;🎥UPDATED: Severe weather coverage May 19 — Salina Airport reports 100 mph winds</a>

River bridge, road project south of Wilson closed indefinetly 

Cope Notes is a text message-based service that provides individuals with randomly timed messages that contain anything from psychology facts to exercises and journaling prompts. Every subscriber’s text sequence is unique so that no two users ever receive the same message at the same time. 

Each <a href="https://copenotes.com/">Cope Notes</a> text must first undergo a thorough review process by a panel of peer-support advocates and mental health professionals, in order to ensure that the messages will have a positive effect on the subscriber’s health. The ultimate goal of the service is to train the brain to disrupt negative thoughts and promote a more positive pattern of thinking.

"We believe in the importance of mental health. We want to ensure our residents have access to the resources they need to stay healthy and thriving," said Saline County Health Officer Jason Tiller. "In my own personal experience with Cope Notes, I have found that the right messages seem to come at exactly the right time. It was been an uplifting experience for me, and I am thrilled we get to continue this service to our residents."

In 2022, Saline County initially offered the service for free to 300 residents. Because of the overwhelming response and in an effort to provide the service to more Saline County residents, the program is being offered at a 50 percent discount, according to information from the county.

To sign up for Cope Notes, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001scLNLAEK27GI7j38iOkmbBLY7glKLN0Wy6uF_d-8TLam2TPUzrfQlc9LS5oNICbDRUIbIxFeAe9F9t_3cBzqfldl0v4T9wLfMfxV5qLVYcHiyw0WBSsZFYJWzG17ByUTXv2fd3MbRsZWmxNokDZI85TAvv_DybpQ8u3RGpTS-VoOBpVKw3mIuQf0KEWbdEz2&amp;c=e8h8gccDrdCcdY1GLzjAyWQ83iic1YREdFKlJQ0cHZXKLBBGRtWzSA==&amp;ch=qH131SvBWUOQqWkIzjrjNennoWrg5mcmyLAePutxO-lGfSWshstgHw==" target="_blank">this link&nbsp;</a>and enter code&nbsp;SACOHALF&nbsp;and your credit or debit card information.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Saline County continues to offer Cope Notes at 50-percent discount

Not seeing precipitation totals from your area after a rain or snow event? Consider becoming a CoCoRaHS volunteer.

"CoCoRaHS is an acronym for the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network. CoCoRaHS is a unique, non-profit, community-based network of volunteers of all ages and backgrounds working together to measure and map precipitation (rain, hail and snow). By using low-cost measurement tools, stressing training and education, and utilizing an interactive website, our aim is to provide the highest quality data for natural resource, education and research applications," the organization noted on its website.

After rain, hail, or snow storms, CoCoRaHS volunteers take precipitation measurements. Those totals are then recorded on the CoCoRaHS&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/ViewData/StateDailyPrecipReports.aspx?state=KS">website</a>&nbsp;(Kansas reporting).

The precipitation totals are used by various organizations and individuals, including the National Weather Service, other meteorologists, hydrologists, emergency managers, insurance adjusters, farmers and ranchers, and, of course, Salina Post.

For more information about CoCoRaHS and its March recruiting efforts or to sign up as a CoCoRaHS volunteer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/marchmadness.aspx">click here</a>.

Precipitation reporting organization seeks local, area volunteers

By ROSARIO MENDEZ Attorney, Division of Consumer and Business Education, FTC

What’s worse than a bogus charity? A bogus charity with a dishonest fundraiser. The FTC has sued and stopped dishonest charity fundraisers that&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2020/09/spot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers">called people</a>&nbsp;to get them to donate to fake charities. Some prey on your kindness and desire to help people impacted by weather emergencies or a disaster. But when you get a call from a charity fundraiser, how do you know the caller is telling you the truth?

Ask the caller specific questions.

What is the charity’s name, phone number, or address? Write these down so you can confirm them later. Keep in mind that many charity names sound alike, and that sham charities often use names that are sound and look like names of legitimate charities.

How much of your donation will go directly to the programs you want to support?

Will your donation be tax-deductible? Not every call seeking a donation is from a charity. Some calls might be from Political Action Committees or other groups where donations are not deductible. See more questions to ask here.

Resist the pressure to donate on the spot.

After you’ve listened to the caller, hang up the phone and think about what they said. Then, go online and do your own research:

Search for the organization’s name and phone number, plus the word “scam” or “complaint.” What you find might help you decide if you want to make that donation.

Look up the organization’s name and address. Does it show up? If it doesn’t, that could be a sign the caller was lying to you.

See what these rating organizations say about the charity: BBB Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator, Charity Watch, and Candid.

If you get a donation request in the mail, do some research online before you donate. And if you spot a charity scam, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

If you get a donation request in the mail,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/charity">do some research online</a>&nbsp;before you donate. And if you spot a charity scam, report it to the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2020/09/www.reportfraud.ftc.gov">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

FTC: How to spot and stop dishonest charity fundraisers

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The start of a new school year is an expensive time for families. If you are struggling to pay for phone and internet services, there are programs to help you stay connected.

During Digital Connectivity and Lifeline Awareness Week, the Kansas Corporation Commission joins utility regulators nationwide in encouraging those in need of assistance to apply for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program.&nbsp; Both programs help low-income individuals and families stay connected so they can access health care, attend classes, find employment, and call for help in an emergency.

Lifeline provides federal and state discounts up to $17.02 per month on phone service (wireless or residential) and broadband. Seven million Americans currently benefit from the program, including approximately 30,000 Kansans.

The Federal Communication Commission’s Affordable Connectivity Plan&nbsp; provides a monthly internet service discount of up to $30 and a one-time device discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer or tablet. According to FCC data, more than 20 million U.S. households are currently enrolled, including approximately 120,000 in Kansas.

Eligibility&nbsp;is based on income&nbsp;(at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for Lifeline and at or below 200% for Affordable Connectivity Plan)&nbsp;or participation in certain assistance programs&nbsp;such as:

•&nbsp;&nbsp;Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) •&nbsp; Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) •&nbsp; Federal Public Housing Assistance (FHPA) •&nbsp; Veterans Pensions &amp; Survivors Pension Benefit •&nbsp; Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance •&nbsp; Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families •&nbsp; Head Start Tribal Programs (income based) •&nbsp; Food Distribution Program on Tribal Lands&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anyone who qualifies for Lifeline is automatically eligible to participate in Affordable Connectivity Plan. Others may still qualify for the plan if they meet any of the following criteria:

• Are approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including the&nbsp;USDA Community Eligibility Provision.&nbsp; • Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year.&nbsp; • Meet the eligibility criteria for a participating broadband provider’s existing low-income program.&nbsp;

Due to higher income maximums, Affordable Connectivity Plan  also has the potential to help families that may not qualify for other types of assistance. The maximum income for a family of four to qualify for the&nbsp; program is&nbsp;$60,000 per year compared to $40,500 for Lifeline. Both Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Plan offer additional discounts for subscribers living on tribal lands.

More information on income eligibility, participating providers, and the enrollment process is available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtjYy5rcy5nb3YvdGVsZWNvbW11bmljYXRpb25zL2xpZmVsaW5lP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MTEuODIzOTEwMjEifQ.SgutPMf7jc8B89ZmFqxVxA5ZBkjKYdszBMiWwbYC7oo/s/1510803030/br/225606126077-l" target="_blank">KCC’s website</a>.

Plans available to help Kansans unable to pay for phone, internet services stay connected

Friday Showers, mainly between 7am and 1pm. High near 58. East southeast wind 6 to 10 mph becoming north northeast in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 80%. Friday Night Showers likely, mainly before 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37. North wind 11 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. Saturday A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly before 1pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 49. Breezy, with a north wind 18 to 22 mph, with gusts as high as 33 mph. Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 29.SundaySunny, with a high near 60. Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 34.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NWS weekend weather forecast

The City of Salina’s 17th annual E-waste Recycling Event will be held at the Berkley Family Recreational Area, 841 Markley Rd. on Saturday, May 3 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. We are delighted to be joined by the Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank again this year to collect donations of non-perishables and personal hygiene goods.

E-waste refers to consumer electronic equipment that is obsolete and needs to be discarded properly. Examples include computers, televisions, cameras, gaming systems, phones, and microwaves.

Recycling electronic equipment not only preserves resources like aluminum, copper, gold, silver, and ferrous metals; it also diverts toxic materials like mercury, lead, and cadmium from the landfill. When electronic equipment is recycled, landfill space is also saved.

The event is open to Saline County residents, businesses, and organizations. Nearly any device with a cord or using a battery will be accepted. However, there are some exceptions. To see a detailed list of items that will and will not be accepted at the event, visit: www.salina-ks.gov/ewaste.

Most items will be recycled free of charge; however, there will be a fee collected for the following items:

· CRT TVs, CRT Computer Monitors,&nbsp; Wood Console TVs, &amp; Projection TVs&nbsp;$40.00

· LCD, LED, Plasma TVs &amp; Computer Monitors $10.00

Participants should enter the event from Markley Road at the water tower and proceed to the drop-off location by following the traffic cones and signs. Participants are asked to remain in their vehicles while staff members collect the e-waste and Food Bank donations. Once drop off is complete, participants should exit onto Markley Road at Dean Evans Stadium. Due to the popularity of the event, expect delays in the morning hours.

For more information, visit: <a href="http://www.salina-ks.gov/ewaste">www.salina-ks.gov/ewaste</a>

Recycle old electronics at Salina’s annual e-waste event on May 3

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.&nbsp;

Salina Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. To submit obituaries, email the obituary text and a photo of the deceased to newstips@salinapost.com

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Roselawnburialandcremation">Roselawn Burial and Cremation Services Facebook Page</a>

Recent obituaries and service times

April typically marks the start of the spring planting season, home improvement projects and large-scale excavations. It's also National Safe Digging Month, and Kansas Gas Service is reminding residents to contact 811 before any digging project – big or small. To celebrate those who commit to safe digging practices by taking the pledge, participants will have a chance to win a free tree.

"Safe digging is essential to protecting our communities, preventing service disruptions and keeping everyone safe,” says Trey Pool, manager of public awareness and damage prevention for Kansas Gas Service. “Through the Safe Digging Pledge and tree giveaway, we’re reminding Kansans that simply contacting 811 before digging can prevent costly damages and hazards. This initiative not only promotes responsible digging but also supports a greener, healthier environment for all."

Dig Hero Tree Giveaway
Kansas residents can prioritize safety by taking the 2025 Safe Digging Pledge at beadigherokansas.com, and recognizing the importance of contacting 811 before their shovels or excavating equipment hits the ground – regardless of the size of the digging project.

 After taking the pledge, residents are automatically entered into a random drawing to win a free tree in partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation, the largest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to planting trees in the U.S. Winners of the tree giveaway will have the opportunity to pick the type of tree they wish to plant and receive information about energy savings gained from their tree.

Why contact 811?
With any digging project, whether planting a tree or repairing a sprinkler system, there is a high probability of underground facilities below the site, such as natural gas pipelines, electric cables or water lines. The best way to avoid damage and injury or loss of service is to contact 811 at least two full working days before digging starts to learn the approximate location of buried facilities in your area. Contacting 811 is free, and it’s the law.

By calling 811 or submitting a request at kansas811.com, professional locators will mark the underground facilities within the designated project area with flags and/or paint at no cost to the home or business owner. Once the project is marked, be aware of the tolerance zone: a minimum of 24 inches. Hand or soft dig techniques should be used within this area.

Learn more about safe digging and take the pledge at <a href="http://beadigherokansas.com">beadigherokansas.com</a> for your chance to win a free tree.

Kansas Gas Service launches tree giveaway for Safe Digging Month 

Saddle up for a legendary road trip through the heart of Kansas’ Wild West on the Kansas Gunsmoke Trail—an unforgettable journey through Abilene, Hays, Dodge City, and Wichita. Each town is steeped in cowboy lore, frontier history, and Old West charm, with Abilene and Dodge City recently named among the Best True Western Towns to Visit.

Stop #1: Abilene – The town that tamed the West

Known as the first Cowtown of the West, Abilene was the endpoint of the Chisholm Trail where thousands of cattle were shipped east by rail. Today, its cowboy legacy lives on through immersive experiences and unique attractions:

Before heading west, enjoy a hearty meal at a local steakhouse and soak in the town’s trailblazing spirit.

Once home to legends like Buffalo Bill Cody and Wild Bill Hickok, Hays blends its gritty frontier past with modern-day vibrance.

Stop #3: Dodge City – The wickedest town in the West

No Wild West journey is complete without Dodge City. Known for its lawless past, the town once needed legendary figures like Wyatt Earp to keep order.

Stop #4: Wichita – The cowboy crossroads

As a major cattle drive stop in the 1870s, Wichita earned its place in western history and continues to celebrate its heritage.

The Kansas Gunsmoke Trail invites travelers to walk the same dusty streets as legends like Hickok, Earp, and Cody. Whether you’re a history buff, western movie fan, or a traveler looking for something new, this trail is your ticket to the past.

Plan your own adventure along the Kansas Gunsmoke Trail at <a href="https://www.kansasgunsmoketrail.com">KansasGunsmokeTrail.com</a> and discover the Best True Western Towns in America.

Follow the Kansas Gunsmoke Trail: A true western adventure

Are you passionate about delivering timely, accurate, and engaging local news? Eagle Media in Salina is hiring a full-time news director to lead newsroom operations across SalinaPost.com and Eagle Radio stations — including 99KG, KINA, and 94.5 Prime FM.

As news director, you’ll be responsible for writing and reporting news for Salina Post while also producing and delivering daily audio newscasts. You’ll work closely with community leaders, law enforcement, and other stakeholders to keep the public informed about what matters most in Salina and the surrounding areas.

Publishing news content on SalinaPost.com

Producing and delivering audio newscasts on-air

Conducting interviews and covering community events

Building relationships with local newsmakers

Utilizing social media to enhance audience engagement

Eagle is seeking a strong journalist with experience in reporting or broadcasting, solid writing and audio production skills, and a passion for community news.

Includes health insurance, 401(k), paid vacation, and participation in Eagle Communications’ Employee Stock Ownership Plan.

This position offers a salary range of $35,000 to $45,000 annually, based on experience.

Ready to lead the conversation in Salina?

<a href="https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=7c09ab04-f576-4f5a-bdb8-f914cdd1f344&amp;ccId=19000101_000001&amp;lang=en_US&amp;source=CC4&amp;selectedMenuKey=CareerCenter">Click here to apply.</a>

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Finalists will be subject to a criminal background and motor vehicle check. Eagle Communications, Inc. is an employee-owned company and an EEO employer.

Join the team: Eagle Media hiring full-time news director in Salina

The Saline County Food Action Community Team

The Saline County Food Action Community Team is launching a county-wide food assessment survey on April 3, 2025, to better understand the food system, including food access, availability, and affordability for residents. The survey is open to all Saline County community members and will help guide future efforts to improve food systems in the region.

“We want to hear directly from residents about their experiences accessing healthy, affordable food, and their thoughts around the complete food system,” said Michelle Coats, Chair of the Saline County Food Action Community Team.&nbsp; “This survey will help us identify gaps, challenges, and opportunities to ensure that everyone in Saline County has access to nutritious, local, and culturally appropriate food.”

The survey takes only 10 minutes to complete and is available online at on eatwellsalinecounty.com.&nbsp; A QR code flyer will be posted at local grocery stores, food pantries, schools, and other community centers for easy access. Paper copies will also be available.

The information gathered will be used to develop action plans, programs, and policies that address food insecurity and improve food options in Saline County. Survey responses are confidential and will directly inform future projects and funding opportunities to enhance the local food system.

This project is made possible through the generous support of the Salina Regional Health Foundation and the Kansas Health Foundation.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Saline County Food Action Community Team (FACT)&nbsp;is a coalition of local organizations, businesses, and community members dedicated to improving food access and security in Saline County. FACT works collaboratively to identify food system challenges, support local food initiatives, and develop strategies that ensure all residents have access to healthy, affordable food. Through partnerships, advocacy, and community-driven solutions, FACT aims to strengthen the local food network, reduce food insecurity, and promote sustainable food practices across the county.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.eatwellsalinecounty.com/">www.eatwellsalinecounty.com</a>&nbsp;or email the Saline County Food Action Community Team at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:salinecountyfact@gmail.com">salinecountyfact@gmail.com</a>

Saline County Food Action Team wants your input: Food survey opens April 3

The Kansas Wesleyan Theatre Program and Theatre Salina are co-producing “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.” Performances will be on Fridays to Sundays from April 4 to 19, plus Thursday, April 17, at Theatre Salina in downtown Salina.

Tickets are available at <a href="http://salinatheatre.com">salinatheatre.com</a>

The story of the barber who seeks vengeance and justice by cutting his customers’ throats and the landlady who makes grisly meat pies from his victims has grown in importance since its premiere in 1979, with music by Stephen Sondheim and book by Hugh Wheeler.

“I would call it the great American opera,” said David Corman, the production’s music director and KWU director of vocal music. “As musicals go, it truly goes into the operatic world, as far as the complexity of music. It’s an important piece in American music history. From the 1980s, it is entering the opera houses of the world.”

Corman likens it to Shakespearean in its tragedy.

“It reminds me a lot of the darkness of Macbeth,” he said.

Vickee Spicer, of Theatre Salina, is directing “Sweeney Todd,” and Kansas Wesleyan students and faculty will have much to do in the collaborative production. Fifteen current KWU students have taken parts from the leads to the ensemble in the collaborative production. 

“The ensemble is super important,” Corman said, with several of the members having solos.

KWU students are playing in the orchestra, which will be conducted by Tyler Breneman, KWU pianist, and Dr. Leonardo Rosario, director of the KWU strings program. Breneman and Dr. Gustavo do Carmo, KWU assistant professor of music, each will play the piano and Rosario will play the violin for the performances.

Corman has introduced understudies for this collaboration, with some students covering two other roles in addition to learning their own parts. Corman called understudying “the hardest job in theatre.”

It’s important that KWU students have a wide range of experiences, said Michelle Dolan, executive director of music at Kansas Wesleyan — types of music, performance venues and directors.

This semester alone, KWU students have participated or will in “A Night at the Opera,” a fundraiser for The Temple in Salina, in March; the “Sweeney Todd” collaboration in April; and Mozart’s Requiem with the Salina Symphony in May.

For tickets to “Sweeney Todd,” call Theatre Salina or go online to <a href="http://salinatheatre.com/tickets/">salinatheatre.com/tickets/</a>.

Visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://salinatheatre.com/get-involved/" target="_blank">Audition Page</a>&nbsp;for more information!

KWU, Theatre Salina present 'Sweeney Todd: Demon Barber of Fleet Street' opening this weekend

The 41st Salina Spring Poetry Series, sponsored and organized by Salina Arts &amp; Humanities, continues on Tuesday, April 8, with a reading by Brad Modlin.

The reading will begin at 7pm at Red Fern Booksellers (106 S Santa Fe Ave). Admission will be $5 at the door and free for students with ID.

Traci Brimhall, Kansas Poet Laureate, curated this year’s series. Brimhall selected poets with a broad range of perspectives, who will share their work in Salina this April.

“Brad’s work is always the best blend of comfort and surprise. His poems are gently intimate, like a conversation on a neighbor’s porch, and I always walk away feeling a greater sense of both wisdom and mystery. There’s a genuine generosity of spirit in every line he writes,” says Brimhall.

Brad Aaron Modlin is the Reynolds Endowed Chair of Creative Writing at University of Nebraska, Kearney, where he teaches undergrads &amp; in the online master’s program in Creative Writing. His words appear in The Pushcart Prize 2025, Brevity, Poetry Unbound, The Slowdown, orchestral scores, art exhibits, &amp; social media viral moments. His poetry book, Everyone at This Party Has Two Names, is available from Black Lawrence Press. His work is often about hope or embarrassment because he believes in humans’ goodness &amp; is very clumsy at the gym.

For needed accommodations, please call Amanda Morris at Salina Arts &amp; Humanities at 785-309-5770 between 8:00 am - 6:00 pm. Every effort will be made to accommodate known disabilities. For material or speech access, please call at least five working days prior to the event.

Brad Modlin opens Salina's spring poetry series April 8

After a 2024 meet that saw 11 of its 16 competitors bring home first-place awards, Kansas Wesleyan’s DECA program is finalizing preparations for the 2025 international competition April 6-8 in San Francisco.

The team enters after another strong state meet, where it took home six first-place honors. Those included a clean sweep of the main team (duo) events and another first-place in an individual event.

“The state event is always a great experience for our team,” said Dr. Trish Petak, who serves as the team’s coach. “We have a lot of newcomers and the DECA has grown significantly in the state of Kansas in recent years, with competitors nearly doubling at this level. Our Kansas competition is a crucial preparation for the international competition.”

“Our team really showed its continued dominance at State in February,” Petak continued. “Our Coyotes have grown tremendously since the start of the year and are ready to excel on the international stage. We are excited to make KWU proud in San Francisco and do our best to bring home more hardware!”

A full capsule of KWU’s results at the Feb. 28 state meet (Hillsboro, Kan.) is below.

First Place: Nico Horvat, Financial Accounting

Second Place: Joaquin Toledo, Food and Restaurant Service Management

Second Place: Darius Horvath, Travel and Tourism

First: Delanie McMullen and Shelby Davidson, Event Planning

First: Courtney Auld and Caleigh Evans, Entertainment Marketing

First: Tiana Marion and Madelene McVey, International Marketing

First: Oriana Botz and Tru Haesemeyer, Marketing Communications

First: Paige Chauncey and Clay Gagnon, Sports Marketing

Second: McMullen and Davidson, Business Ethics

Second: Marion and McVey, Business-to-Business Marketing

Second: Auld and Gagnon, Business Research

Third: Collin Phelps, Entrepreneurship: Starting a Business

DECA is an organized business competition that provides students with problems and requires them to present solutions. Some disciplines require a report written beforehand, while others involve an exam taken prior to the competition. All involve presentations with varying amounts of time to prepare, sometimes as little as 30 minutes.

KWU prepares for international DECA competition 

HILLSBORO - Kansas Wesleyan Softball split its doubleheader with the Tabor Bluejays on Wednesday at Bluejay Softball Field.

The Coyotes won game 1 10-9 in extra innings, but dropped a pitchers duel in the second game 1-0.

In the opener, the Coyotes took advantage of an error in the first inning as <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c06f10e8-b76a-4a28-85b5-e7fa1a143a82?elinkdata=23731">Hailey Summers</a> reached on the miscue and then scored on <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/20f3d6a1-f76d-44b5-80e3-52d4b45cdb7a?elinkdata=23731">Trenity Miller's</a> double.

Tabor took a 2-1 lead in the bottom of the inning with a pair of runs.

In the third, the Coyotes regained the lead as Summers singled, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8a3493dc-6cde-4ecf-867e-343ce2fcebe2?elinkdata=23731">Jenna Soule</a> walked and then <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/59837f7b-d433-4edf-a20e-5c69edfe72cf?elinkdata=23731">Keira Hammen</a> brought in a run with a hit. Three batters later <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fbe5eaa1-08d9-4c05-9011-5e7b93eac0d6?elinkdata=23731">Briannah Kutschkau</a> singled to bring in the go-ahead run.

Tabor scored five runs in the bottom of the fourth inning to take the lead back.

Back came the Coyotes to start the fifth. Hammen homered, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a4a63682-166a-44fb-b778-ad56359dce6e?elinkdata=23731">Elli Han</a> singled and Kutschkau reached on an error to set up pinch hitter <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b1697b7c-8602-4c1d-8d0d-efea714117b6?elinkdata=23731">Cadence Mallet's</a> RBI single. Summers followed with an RBI single and after Soule singled, Hammen singled for two more runs as the Coyotes put six on the board.

Tabor added a run in the fifth, and the Coyotes held a 9-8 lead into the bottom of the seventh, but the Bluejays were able to tied it and force extras.

Miller drove in the game-winning run in the top of the eighth, and the KWU defense stepped up and got Tabor to go in order for the win.

Summers and Hammen had three hits each for the Coyotes. Hammen drove in four runs. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ba8f4896-20bf-460f-bef4-bea657cae75e?elinkdata=23731">Caitlyn Collier</a> went all the way for the Coyotes allowing nine runs on 13 hits, improving to 8-7.

The second game was a pitcher's duel between <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e11547ad-1ca6-400f-ac74-d9d6040bf14a?elinkdata=23731">Alli Mickelsen</a> for the Coyotes and Madison Nelson for Tabor.

Neither team could push a run across until Tabor scored the only run of the game in the fifth.

Miller led off the KWU second with a hit, but the Coyotes couldn't capitalize.

KWU softball splits with Bluejays

LEAVENWORTH -&nbsp;Kansas Wesleyan Flag Football jumped out to a 38-0 lead before giving up some late points as the Coyotes toppled the Spires of the University of Saint Mary 38-15 on Wednesday night at Berkel Stadium.

Wesleyan scored on its second drive as&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3fce5b0d-5bc8-4def-89bf-071e0549802f?elinkdata=23700" target="_blank">Chihiro Iwata</a>&nbsp;hit&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c7b913e2-2b7b-4e6b-bb45-8f4078330491?elinkdata=23700" target="_blank">Ciaran DeCuir</a>&nbsp;for a 68-yard touchdown pass and the PAT made it 7-0.On KWU's next drive, the Coyotes scored again, this time a 12-yard pass to DeCuir and the PAT was good to make it 14-0.KWU turned over Saint Mary on the next drive with an interception by&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ed8241d3-0bc1-46f6-8aa3-3a8b638470a9?elinkdata=23700" target="_blank">Aliyah Wood</a>&nbsp;which set up another Coyote touchdown to make it 20-0.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5f8ad601-86c0-4a87-b55d-479eb6905c9e?elinkdata=23700" target="_blank">Addison Cadwell</a>&nbsp;scored on a 23-yard run on KWU's next drive to make it 26-0 and after the Coyotes got another interception, this one by&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5dc4fb7f-d9e3-4e15-9d1f-20b01a07f894?elinkdata=23700" target="_blank">Angel Roman</a>, the Coyotes scored again, a 24-yard play to DeCuir to make it 32-0 at the half.

Saint Mary scored on the first drive of the third quarter, twice converting on fourth down to keep the drive going.

Wesleyan answered right back with a 3-yard touchdown pass to&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c7d93737-a07c-4836-ab09-45e7ca8b257a?elinkdata=23700" target="_blank">Jazmine Whitfield</a>&nbsp;to make it 38-6.

The Coyotes would give up a score to the Spires in the fourth and then Saint Mary got a safety to make it the final score of 38-15.KWU gets a week off before the final stretch of the season. KWU plays the conference game with Baker on April 12 in Baldwin City, then hosts non-conference games with Ottawa on April 15 and Midland on April 17 in Salina before the KCAC Tournament April 25-27 in Kansas City.

Local

Region

Sports

Announcements