LINCOLN COUNTY &amp; SALINE COUNTY - The US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS) has issued a flash flood warning for northern Lincoln County until late Monday evening.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), north Lincoln County is under a flash flood warning until 11:45 pm. Reportedly, radar is estimating 4 to 6 inches of rainfall across northern Lincoln county between Barnard and Lincoln.&nbsp;The storms are nearly stationary with more heavy rainfall likely.

The US National Weather Service stated this flash flood warning is a "very dangerous flooding situation" and to not drive in flooded areas. They are advising people to report any&nbsp;flooding problems to local officials.

According to the US National Weather Service, northwest Saline County is under a "high risk" of flash flooding,&nbsp;especially near the town of Glendale with slow moving thunderstorms producing 4 to 5 inches of rainfall.

Saline County Emergency Management advises people in the Saline County area to stay home during this flash flood warning. Saline County Emergency Management has stated the following:

Avoid low-lying areas and roads near creeks or ditches.

Keep headlights on and drive slowly if travel is absolutely necessary.&nbsp;

Please do not risk your safety or the safety of emergency responders.

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/">weather.gov</a>.

Flash flood warning issued for northern Lincoln County and high risk for northwest Saline County

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Salina Post news tip email address

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Salina Post accepting letters to the editor

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

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

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

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

2024 League of Women Voters General Election Candidate Forum

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

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

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

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

River bridge, road project south of Wilson closed indefinetly 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Precipitation reporting organization seeks local, area volunteers

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

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

Ask the caller specific questions.

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

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

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

Resist the pressure to donate on the spot.

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

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

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

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

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

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

FTC: How to spot and stop dishonest charity fundraisers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Salina Fire Department (SFD) has issued a statement regarding a 'small log pile on fire' near Indian Rock Park, which was separate from the publicized 'log jam' at Bill Burke Park.

The following is a statement from the SFD:

On Saturday, July 19th, the Salina Fire Department responded to a report of a small log pile on fire along the Smoky Hill River near Indian Rock Park. It is important to note that this incident was separate from the larger and more publicized log jam located at Bill Burke Park.

Recently, social media comments have proposed burning the Bill Burke Park log jam as a method of removal. The Salina Fire Department strongly advises against this approach, as burning the log jam would pose significant safety risks and could worsen the hazard. If ignited, the fire would likely burn only to the waterline, leaving submerged debris that presents ongoing dangers to the public and waterways.

Additionally, the City’s surface water intake structure is located on the west riverbank adjacent to the log jam. Use of accelerants or chemicals to burn the logs could cause contamination in our public drinking water.

The Fire Department reminds residents that starting fires on City property, including parks, is illegal and endangers first responders and civilians alike. Violators may face charges of arson or aggravated arson, with increased penalties if the fire results in injury to responders or bystanders.

The City of Salina and the Fire Department are actively working to find safe and effective solutions to manage and remediate the log jam at Bill Burke Park. In the meantime, the public is urged not to attempt burning or walking on the log jam due to the inherent safety risks.

Residents should always exercise caution near any water body and adhere to the City of Salina’s ordinance on recreational fires:

· Fires must be at least 25 feet away from structures or combustible materials unless contained in a Fire Marshal-approved container.

· Combustible materials within 25 feet of the fire must be cleared beforehand to prevent the spread.

The Salina Fire Department thanks the community for their cooperation and vigilance in ensuring the safety of our parks and waterways.

SFD issues statement regarding a 'small log pile on fire' near Indian Rock Park

It is time to design a great parade float for the Smoky Hill Museum Street Fair. 

This one‐day event of fun celebrates the history and heritage of the Smoky Hills region. The museum invites you to participate in this wonderful event by entering an Autumn or “Old West” themed parade float. 

Entries are due August 29. There is no entry fee.

Fill out an application online or download it at smokyhillmuseum.org under Street Fair. To have an application mailed to you, email <a href="http://museum@salina.org">museum@salina.org</a>, or call Rosa De La Cruz at (785) 833-8021.

On September 27, the parade entry sign‐in will begin at 9:00 a.m. Participants must be signed in and in place by 9:45 a.m. The parade will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m.

The parade route will be on Santa Fe Avenue, between Elm Street and South Street. An information packet will be sent to everyone who enters by the deadline.

Smoky Hill Museum invites the public to participate and sign up for Street Fair Parade

The Salina Public Library turned up the volume on vocabulary this past Saturday with its first-ever&nbsp;Adult Spelling Bee Showdown, a delightfully nerdy night of competition, laughter, and community spirit.

Sponsored by Hutton Design + Build, the event brought in a full house of spellers and spectators, raising over $4,500 to support the library’s&nbsp;Re-Imagining Our Library&nbsp;initiative. Funds will go toward transforming the Library’s Youth Services department into a more dynamic, accessible, and welcoming space for Salina’s young people and families.

Ten teams of four faced off in a bracket-style tournament that proved spelling isn’t just for kids. Each player had to take the mic every round — no phones, no writing, and no spellcheck — just teamwork, guts, and a few strategic twists. Before the showdown, teams could buy limited-use “advantage passes” for a do-over or a new word, and any team following a misspelled word could steal it on the spot.

Between the nail-biting tie-breakers and the clever passes, it was clear: Salina is full of sharp spellers and quick thinkers. The result was a high-stakes, high-hilarity evening filled with gasps, giggles, and plenty of unexpected upsets — including strong finishes from the “Wildcard” teams, made up of individuals who signed up solo and were paired with strangers just before the event. With no shared history or prep time, two of these wildcard teams still cracked the top three.

“We loved seeing adults cut loose and have fun with something so classically academic,” said Allyson Walker, SPL Head of Fundraising &amp; Development. “It reminded us how powerful libraries can be in bringing people together, in smart, silly, joyful ways.”&nbsp;

Thanks to the energy and enthusiasm of the teams, audience, and sponsors, the evening was a true community win, and a big boost to an exciting library transformation. 

For more information on theRe-Imagining Our Libraryinitiative or ways to support the project, visit:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://salinapubliclibrary.org/re-imagining-our-library">salinapubliclibrary.org/re-imagining-our-library</a>

Salina Public Library’s Adult Spelling Bee raises $4,500 for youth department remodel

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

NAME:&nbsp;Delaughter, Arianna Rochelle

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Outside warrant/NCIC hit (2 requested charges)

NAME:&nbsp;George, Anthony John David

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit; Use/poss. drug paraphernalia/human body; Poss. of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance

NAME:&nbsp;Harwell, Richard Preston

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Villalpando, Tara Larae

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Failure to appear; Use/poss. drug paraphernalia/human body; Poss. of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Failure to appear; Aggravated battery; Recklessly cause great bodily harm/disfigurement; Crim. poss. weap. by felon.; firearm not used in crime

Saline County Jail Bookings, July 22

Abilene Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau&nbsp;

ABILENE - Summer travel is in full bloom in Abilene, thanks to Kansas Tourism's popular Sunflower Summer program. With nearly 2,000 admissions recorded so far, Kansas families are discovering why Abilene continues to earn national accolades as one of the Best Historic Small Towns in America.

The Sunflower Summer program, which began July 12, provides free admission for Kansas students and a parent to participating attractions. Abilene is proud to offer six must-see experiences this season:

To help families make the most of their visit, Visit Abilene Kansas released a two-day itinerary featuring the town’s award-winning attractions, historic sites, and family-friendly charm—all while keeping costs low.

"Many families are feeling the financial pinch this summer, and the Sunflower Summer program allows them to still have fun and meaningful family experiences at no cost," said Julie Roller Weeks, Director of the Abilene Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau.

Highlights of the Itinerary Include:

"With so much to see and do for families, Abilene is the perfect place to enjoy Sunflower Summer," added Roller Weeks. "We love seeing families exploring our attractions, riding the rails, and creating memories together. Students who visit Abilene’s sites will undoubtedly have plenty to write about in their back-to-school 'what I did this summer' essays."

The Sunflower Summer program runs through&nbsp;August 3, 2025, or until funds are depleted.

For full details, download the&nbsp;Sunflower Summer app&nbsp;and plan your adventure at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.abilenekansas.org/SunflowerSummer">www.AbileneKansas.org/SunflowerSummer</a>.

Sunflower Summer program welcomes nearly 2,000 visitors to Abilene

About 400 volunteers from the Ark Church, completed a full morning and afternoon of service work around Salina on Saturday, July 19.

"Serve Day," by the Ark Church in Salina (2020 S. Ohio St.) was a day that volunteers from any background would come together and travel to 34 different businesses, parks, organizations and locations across town for service work. The service work would range from yard spruce-ups, taking care of the elderly, helping nonprofits/businesses, making hygiene bags, writing letters to first responders, law enforcement, military personnel and much more other services.

"This is just a really cool thing, and our church has accepted the call to serve Salina," said Ark Church Pastor, John Huseman. "I am glad we were able to come along side and help different ministries and organizations take some pressure off of them."

Before "Serve Day" started, all of the volunteers met at the Ark Church with their groups to find out which service they would be doing. From there, the groups would disperse from the church and arrive at their desired destination to serve.&nbsp;

"I was happy to serve for my first time," said volunteer, Jovan Suarez. "Volunteering like everyone, brings a joy to the Lord and it was fun meeting more people within our church."

"What I love about Serve Day is that our church just goes out and says, how can we help you?" said Huseman. "Serving others is a simple concept that Jesus demonstrated so well, and we try to follow His lead."

"Serve Day" is an annual occurrence by the Ark Church and happens every year in July.&nbsp;

The Ark Church also does an annual grocery giveaway, Christmas box distribution, prayer walks and other services each year.

Ark Church serves Salina for annual "Serve Day"

Executive Director, Theatre Salina&nbsp;

Theatre Salina is one of the first community groups nationally to be given the opportunity&nbsp;to produce "Come From Away." 

This amazing musical tells the story the small town of Gander, Newfoundland that doubled in size within a few hours when on 9/11 when 38 planes landed in a few hours and doubled the size of the population. This musical displays the humanity, generosity and humor that made 7,000 residents and 7,000 passengers lifelong friends and with stories worth telling. 

With a generous grant from the Jack Wilson Charitable Trust, the theatre is able to offer a free performance on September 11, 2025 at 7:00 pm&nbsp;for first responders; firemen, police, dispatchers, EMT, nurses. Each responder can also bring one person with them.&nbsp;

Twelve talented actors portray more than 50 roles from the major of Gander, to the woman who runs the animal shelter to first day on the job news reporter to Beverley Bass, the first woman to become a captain for a major airline. The story weaves stirring music, humor, and humanity into an award-winning show. 

"Come From Away" received Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Circle Critics and Olivier awards across the world. It has toured across the United States, Europe, Asia and Canada.&nbsp;Theatre Salina is one of the first community theatres honored with the opportunity&nbsp;to produce the musical. 

The creative team includes musical direction from Tyler Breneman, choreography from Maggie Spicer Brown, set design by Josh Morris, lighting and sound design by J.R. Lidgett, costume design by Jenn Morris, and direction from Michael Spicer. 

"Come From Away" will open Theatre Salina's 65th&nbsp;season on September 5th - September 28th. 

For more information about tickets, call (785) 827-6126 or visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinatheatre.com/project/come-from-away/">https://salinatheatre.com/project/come-from-away/</a>

Theatre Salina one of only community theatres to produce nationally renowned musical 

Salina Police are actively investigating a scam, after a 22-year old woman reported she lost around $2,000.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Friday, July 18th, a 22-year old woman reported she was scammed via a phone call. Allegedly, she received a call from someone claiming to be from "Evergy" and advised her she had not paid her 'electrical bill.' The caller then told her that she needed to provide the payment 'immediately' or her power would be 'shut down.'

Moreover, the caller told her she would not be able to provide the payment to 'Evergy' and instead pay it by going to a store using 'Green Dot' (prepaid card company).

The woman then went to bank and withdrew around $500 and went to Walgreens to make the Green Dot transaction. After she made the payment, she contacted the caller from "Evergy" that the payment was made. She was then told that the payment was 'only a minimum payment with an outstanding balance of $1,000.' Afterwards, she went and obtained $500 more.&nbsp;

The scammer then told her that her transaction could not be accepted, because it had to be 'one payment of $1,000' instead of two separate payments. The woman then went back to Green Dot to make the single transaction, but was not allowed to do so. According to SPD, Green Dot does not allow a single transaction over $500.

Afterwards, the woman spoke with an associate from her bank and advised her that she was being scammed. The woman then contacted SPD about the incident.

Total loss was valued to be around $2,000.&nbsp;

SPD warns that 'no legitimate business will ever ask you to make a transaction from Green Dot and if you have concerns, contact the actual phone number of the business.'

Woman reportedly loses around $2,000 after a scam

The US National Weather Service has issued an 'extreme heat warning' for Central Kansas until Wednesday evening.

According to the&nbsp;US National Weather Service, on Saturday, July 19th an 'extreme heat warning' was issued to be in effect from now until Wednesday evening (July 23rd). Heat indices were reported to be as high as 110 degrees, with high's being over 100 degrees. 

It was reported that humidity will also remain in place through this period, which will make it feel even hotter. Chances of showers and storms could occur through the week, with the best chances occurring on Thursday, July 24th.

The US National Weather Service has left some tips about staying safe during this advisory:

Work outdoors early or late in the day, and take breaks in the shade as often as possible

Check up on the elderly, sick and those without A/C

Never leave children or pets unattended in your vehicles ('look before you lock')

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>.&nbsp;

Extreme heat warning issued in Central Kansas until Wednesday evening

Kansas Department of Transportation

OTTAWA COUNTY - On Monday, July 28, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) plans to begin bridge repair work on K-106/Mill Street over Solomon River in Minneapolis.

Throughout the project, temporary traffic signals will direct one lane of traffic through bridge repair work. Motorists should expect minimal delays. 

During the final phase of construction, the sidewalk will be closed for patching. This phase of construction is expected to begin in September, conditions permitting.

Wildcat Construction Co. Inc., of Wichita, is the prime contractor for this $735,403 project. Work is scheduled to be completed in November, conditions permitting.

KDOT urges all road users to stay alert and follow posted signs in all work zones. 

For current road conditions, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fkandrive.gov%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/010101982db967cb-7def7c13-b7a1-4fdc-bed4-807bf8074b05-000000/Pa6Y_g0UAsSVdQQcR5w0itLr_PWg1T5WQS1Gmur44Wk=414">kandrive.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 5-1-1.

For updates on highway projects in north central Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.ksdot.gov%2Fbureaus%2FoffTransInfo%2FNCNRelese.asp%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/010101982db967cb-7def7c13-b7a1-4fdc-bed4-807bf8074b05-000000/IY3RtGc67ZwNu-0bMB2Fd69NzdGGlr8LEZzHgD6SsuY=414">https://www.ksdot.gov/bureaus/offTransInfo/NCNRelese.asp</a>.

K-106 bridge repair in Minneapolis set to begin July 28

CHICAGO (AP) — Salvador Perez homered twice and drove in four runs, Jac Caglianone and John Rave added solo shots and the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago Cubs 12-4 on Monday night.

Chicago’s Matt Shaw and Carson Kelly went deep off Noah Cameron (4-4) in the second, but the rookie lefthander was in control for most of the first six innings. He allowed all four Cubs runs and seven hits while striking out six to help the Royals win their second straight.

Ben Brown (4-7), recalled earlier in the day from Triple-A Iowa, replaced opener Ryan Brasier in the second and gave up six earned runs and seven hits while striking out four over the next four innings. Caglianone had a solo shot off Brown in the second and Perez added a two-run homer in the fourth.

Kansas City got RBI hits from Jonathan India and Bobby Witt Jr. to start a four-run fifth. The two scored on a throwing error and wild pitch, respectively.

Rave homered in the seventh off Chris Flexen, who gave up Perez’s two-run shot in a four-run eighth that ensured the Cubs’ second straight loss. Relievers John Schreiber and Andrew Hoffman kept Chicago scoreless, and Witt and Rave each finished with a pair of RBIs.

Shaw drove in three runs for the Cubs, who gave All-Star centerfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong the night off due to knee soreness.

Witt made the most of his at-bat in the fifth inning. He drove in Kyle Isbel with a single to put the Royals in front for good, stole second and went to third on Kelly’s errant pickoff throw, then scored on Brown’s wild pitch for the final run of the inning.

The top third of the Cubs’ order — Nico Hoerner, Kyle Tucker and Seiya Suzuki — was a combined 0 for 11.

Cubs LHP Matthew Boyd (10-3, 2.34 ERA) makes his first post-All Star break appearance Tuesday. Kansas City has not named a starter.

⚾ Perez, Caglianone and Rave homers power Royals over the Cubs

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;C.J. Jones&nbsp;will return to K-State for his senior season in 2025-26 after withdrawing from the transfer portal.

The East St. Louis, Ill., native was one of four players who played in all 33 games in 2024-25, earning 9 starts, after two seasons (2022-24) at UIC. He averaged 5.7 points on 40.7 percent (70-of-172) shooting, including 30.9 percent (17-of-55) from 3-point range, with 1.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 0.5 steals in 18.9 minutes per game as a junior.

Jones scored in double figures in 5 games in his first season as a Wildcat, including a season-high 12 points vs. Mississippi Valley State on Nov. 19 and at UCF on Feb. 26.

Jones has seen action in 95 games with 59 starts in his college career, including 62 games with 50 starts at UIC. He has scored 744 points during his college career on 39.7 percent (286-of-720) shooting from the field, including 34.6 percent (71-of-205) from 3-point range and 64.7 percent (101-of-156) from the free throw line.

Jones has 31 career double-digit scoring games, including three 20-point performances. His career-high of 25 points came against Bradley on Jan. 13, 2024, while at UIC. He led the Flames in assists (159) and minutes played (1,102) as a sophomore in 2023-24, while he was second in scoring (11.4 ppg.) and steals (1.0 spg.).Jones is one of four players who are returning to K-State in 2025-26, joining rising juniors&nbsp;Mobi Ikegwuruka&nbsp;and&nbsp;Taj Manning&nbsp;and sophomore&nbsp;David Castillo.

Jones to Return for his Senior Season

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, welcome back. Great to be back (at) Missouri Western State University, man. We love this place, and it’s a great place to have training camp. We appreciate all the people and the jobs that they do for us here. They roll out the red carpet and again, take care of us like no other. So, we appreciate all of that and we look forward to getting this camp going. As far as any of the injuries go, I can update you real quick. PUP, the people that will start on PUP, (Kristian) Fulton will start on PUP, Jawaan Taylor and Tre Watson. Those three will start there but everybody else is good to go. We should be ripping and ready by tomorrow. We jump right into it with testing tomorrow and then we have meetings, both business meetings for the NFL and also meetings for the football part of it. Other than that, we look forward to the season getting started. It should be a great environment up here for learning and for conditioning with the heat that we are going to have – and we normally have up here. It should get us ready and build a nice foundation for us to start the season. As far as Rashee (Rice) goes, I mean that is obvious news out there. Now, we’re going to progress as normal with him, he’ll go in and take all the reps that he'd normally take. We always rotate that position, so depending on what happens here, in the future, whoever needs to play will be able to step in, and they’ll know what they’re doing and be in good shape to do it. But like I said, just progress as normal. Other than that, time is yours.”

Q: Do you have any idea of the timeline for the punishment handed down from the NFL for Rashee Rice?

REID:&nbsp;“No. I don’t have anything.”

Q: Have you had any conversations about it?

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