OTTAWA COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 3p.m. Monday in Ottawa County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Chrysler Town &amp; Country driven by Patricia&nbsp;Gillham, 54, Salina, was northbound in the 300 Block of N 90th Road.&nbsp; The driver experienced a possible medical episode.&nbsp; The van entered the west ditch, struck a fence and power pole.

EMS transported Gillham to Salina Regional Health Center. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Salina woman hospitalized after van strikes a power pole

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

The Salina Police Department (SPD) will be holding a law enforcement memorial ceremony this Thursday at Jerry Ivery Memorial Park.

This Thursday, May 15th at 8:00 am, the SPD are inviting everyone to join in honoring the fallen officers at Jerry Ivey Memorial Park on 2465 Edwards St.

During the ceremony, SPD will honor four officers who gave their lives in the line of duty. Those officers are: Officer John Stonebraker, Officer Tom Carson, Officer Olney E. Eaton, Officer Jerry R. Ivey and other officers who sacrificed their lives.

Refreshments will be provided after the ceremony.

Law enforcement memorial ceremony occurring this Thursday

CKF Addiction Treatment and Saline County Youth Substance Prevention Coalition, are proud to announce their 2025 Summer out of school bash that will occur this month.

On Friday, May 23rd CKF will host their 3rd annual Youth Out of School Bash event at the District Eat &amp; Play (Salina Central Mall) on 2259 S. 9th St. from&nbsp;12:00 pm - 2:00 pm.

According to CKF, the event is free and open to all Saline County 6th–12th graders. The event will feature free pizza, soft drinks, photobooth, a resource fair with local organizations, raffle prizes, go-karts, games, music DJ'd by Salina native DJ Cash Hollistah and more.

Parents wanting to sign up their child are required to fill out a waiver for the child's participation. Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1228180329307232&amp;set=a.472287301563209">https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1228180329307232&amp;set=a.472287301563209</a>&nbsp;to sign up by scanning the QR code with your phone on your camera app and a link will pop up when your point the camera to the screen.

You can also sign up by going to the link:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/617b24bfc8c47/web/">https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/617b24bfc8c47/web/</a>

CKF announces fun out of school event for Saline County students

Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) is wanting to remind everyone to stay alert and share the road for motorcyclists.

KDOT is spreading awareness for Kansas drivers, whether by vehicle or motorcycle to drive safely. The agency is also wanting to highlight the campaign "Motorcyclists’ Safety is Everyone’s Safety," which is a national campaign that reminds everyone on the road to follow safe and riding practices.

According to KDOT, speeding and alcohol impairment are two of the leading factors in motorcycle-related crashes. Preliminary 2024 Kansas data shows that 54 people died and more than 852 sustained injuries in crashes involving motorcycles.&nbsp;

“Motorcyclists continue to be overrepresented in traffic fatalities,” said KDOT Behavioral Safety Manager Gary Herman. “It’s essential that both riders and drivers pay attention to each other. No matter what kind of vehicle you’re operating, the emphasis must be on putting people’s lives and overall roadway safety first.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

KDOT states that drivers and motorcyclists can help reduce the number of injuries and fatalities by observing all traffic laws, obeying the speed limit, driving and riding alcohol/drug-free, avoiding distractions and focusing on the roadway.&nbsp;

Riders should wear high-visibility protective gear, a DOT-compliant motorcycle helmet and are required to have a "M" endorsement (indicates that the holder is authorized to operate motorcycles or motor-driven cycles) on their license.&nbsp;

To see a list of approved motorcycle education sites in Kansas, go to <a href="https://www.ksrevenue.gov/pdf/DrSchoolsMoto.pdf#search=motorcycle%20training">https://www.ksrevenue.gov/pdf/DrSchoolsMoto.pdf#search=motorcycle%20training</a>.

For more information on&nbsp;motorcycle safety go to:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/safety-topics/motorcycle-safety">https://www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/safety-topics/motorcycle-safety</a>

KDOT spreading awareness for driving safely and sharing roads with motorcyclists

Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Salina are seeking volunteers for their of&nbsp; 36th annual Hook &amp; Slice Golf Tournament.

According to BBBS of Salina, the organization is looking for volunteers who are can help with&nbsp;check-in, setup to course support and cleanup. Those that are willing to volunteer, can do so by going to Salina Area United Way's website&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fsalinaareaunitedway.volunteerlocal.com%2Fvolunteer%2F%3Fid%3D99857%26fbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExVWRlT3BtYzFKeE9TRlp5NwEeXpXqNCkWaRFoTxgNcbxHIcYvsp1feBt0ftcjFVCxGGLPCTnz4nCqRPaFoNU_aem_jZpoCESO0EeTcQl449qFCA&amp;h=AT2fEerk2W-prSE2Rmq_E8EJo96p2qlpllmgWqibr2b9n1L5cw1uE8QVkCCwmfs2CfPyD92n0eHw73qo7TgDvjvBj7cS5UaL3-zvTOxq6KG1NApeSpsjo_T3nk0DI-r1vNkqEzBxE4kDyWMySqo5Pw&amp;__tn__=-UK*F&amp;c[0]=AT0QYyUmaUAVq1iz5LPbo8xinHAxxxwGUpH7iwtWsYu8es16tk_C-_DXnY9ZCHj4xS31k1kP-BKJKtDYJ3zesFpeduGh3GXfiPoHJbeT8YkvuUmUidbmP-pgOvXUwYxmX1DdJu5ynCPDwoTvI6Xyb1ts0QXYrDMBd31PX7jPMhEzp7QAjB0lUuzuxS5mJsS0yZhxWLH88BI7X62DDr2MdjZJjW14TvLzecoewB2hMeBpoIezs-z4jWzsLA8" target="_blank">salinaareaunitedway.volunteerlocal.com/volunteer/?id=99857</a>

The Hook &amp; Slice Golf Tournament is a fundraising event that supports their vital one-to-one mentoring programs. Funds raised through the event will help enable the organization to create more meaningful, mentoring relationships for the youth.

“We are so grateful to our community and how much they come out to support Big Brothers Big Sisters annual events. Hook &amp; Slice not only offers a fantastic day of golf, but also raises crucial funds to support our one-to-one mentoring programs,” said BBBS of Salina CEO, Amanda Otto.

The community is invited to tee off for a cause on Friday, June 6th at GreatLife Golf &amp; Fitness (1800 S. Marymount Rd.) from 8:00 am – 1:00 pm.&nbsp;

Volunteers sought for BBBS of Salina golf tournament

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;Baron, Nicholas Anthony

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Crim damage to prop;w/o consent $1K-$25K

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Theft of prop/serv;&lt;$1500 3 business in 72 hrs

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

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact; Failure to appear

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Failure to appear; Driving While Suspended

Saline County Jail Bookings, May 13

The&nbsp;City of Salina and Friends of the River Foundation, have invited the public to attend a presentation on the progress of the highly anticipated Smoky Hill River Renewal Project on Tuesday, May 13th at the Tony's Pizza Events Center.

According to the City, the presentation will focus on project costs, schedule, bridges, aesthetics and trails along the Old Smoky Hill River Channel. After the presentation,&nbsp;attendees may view maps of the project design in an open house format. 

Representatives from the City and HDR Engineering Inc., (who are responsible for developing the preliminary design of in-channel features and the project's master plan) will answer questions during the open house format.

Doors open at 5:15 pm and the presentation starts at 5:30 pm.&nbsp;

Open house stations are expected to start at&nbsp;6:30 pm till 7:30 pm.

For those unable to attend, the presentation will be streamed live on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salina.ks.gov">facebook.com/salina.ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofsalinakansas">youtube.com/cityofsalinakansas</a>

Visit <a href="https://www.salina-ks.gov/utilities-projects">www.salina-ks.gov/utilities-projects</a> for more information on the Smoky Hill River Renewal Project.

Smoky Hill River Renewal progress presentation tomorrow

New and improved sand volleyball courts are expected to be established at Jerry Ivey Memorial Park.

During the Salina City Commission meeting on Monday, a bid of $94,174.50 was accepted to install USA standard sand volleyball courts at Jerry Ivey Park. This bid was submitted by Garibay Siteworks Co. LLC back on Thursday, May 1st who is the construction company that will replacing the sand volleyball courts.

A few years back, Salina's Parks and Recreation department made a priority of addressing tennis courts in the city's park system. The City then made partnerships with Salina Tennis Alliance and USD 305 to perform the maintenance of the courts.&nbsp;

Afterwards, park amenities at Jerry Ivey included a basketball court, 4 tennis courts and 2 sand volleyball courts. Overtime, the basketball court needed maintenance and was then resurfaced by USD 305. However, the sand volleyball courts were not replaced due to the space requirements needed to construct 4 additional tennis courts, making a total of 8 tennis courts.

City Commission was still committed to replacing the sand volleyball courts to improve playability and meet USA Sand Volleyball standards.

On Monday, Salina City Commissioners voted to approve the replacement of the sand volleyball courts at Jerry Ivey Memorial Park.

New and improved sand volleyball courts coming to Jerry Ivey Memorial Park

Starting Tuesday, May 20th the&nbsp;City of Salina's utilities department will&nbsp; make a temporary adjustment to the disinfection process, for healthy drinking water.

According to the City, this process will last until Saturday, June 7th. This is meant to maintain high quality in the water distribution system. This process consists of turning off the ammonia feed and increasing the free chlorine feed in order to maintain a consistent disinfection level throughout the water distribution system.

Ammonia is a chemical compound made of hydrogen and nitrogen. Studies show that&nbsp;stopping the ammonia feed will allow the nitrogen cycle to “catch up” with the nutrient load. A 25% to 50% water change will help remove some ammonia, assuming the incoming water source does not contain ammonia, which is helpful (Francis-Floyd, Watson,&nbsp;Petty,&nbsp;Pouder, n.d.).

Free Chlorine refers to the amount of chlorine in the water available to sanitize and kill harmful bacteria, viruses and other pathogens. This type of chlorine is the most reactive form, meaning it is available to react with and neutralize contaminants in the water, killing bacteria (King, 2014).

The City states that throughout this process, customers&nbsp;may notice a strong chlorine taste or odor of chlorine in their tap water. However, these temporary conditions are normal during the modified disinfection process and will not cause adverse health effects. If you are sensitive to the taste or odor of chlorine, the City recommends that you&nbsp;keep an open container of drinking water in your refrigerator for a few hours to allow the chlorine to vanish.

On Tuesday, May 27th the City plans on performing an annual flushing of fire hydrants. More information to come out soon.

If you have any questions concerning these flushing activities, you can call a Utilities Department representative at 785-826-7305.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Francis-Floyd, R., Watson, C., Petty, D., &amp; Pouder, B. D., (n.d.). "Ammonia in Aquatic Systems." Retrieved from&nbsp;<a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FA031">https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FA031</a>

&nbsp; &nbsp; King, J., (2014). "When to Measure Free Chlorine vs Total Chlorine | Expert Tips." Retrieved from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ysi.com/ysi-blog/water-blogged-blog/2024/04/free-chlorine-vs-total-chlorine-when-to-measure-what#:~:text=Free%20chlorine%20refers%20to%20the,%2D)%20when%20added%20to%20water.">https://www.ysi.com/ysi-blog/water-blogged-blog/2024/04/free-chlorine-vs-total-chlorine-when-to-measure-what#:~:text=Free%20chlorine%20refers%20to%20the,%2D)%20when%20added%20to%20water.</a>

City of Salina starts annual water flushing next week

Altrusa International of Salina, KS Inc. unveils a new, local service project affiliated with a multi-year global effort endorsed by Altrusa International.

Known as "The Period Project," Altrusa Salina’s new initiative kicked off informally back in December. Club members delivered more than 6,800 donated tampons and pads, plus 750 cosmetics bags for storing personal products to Salina public schools, to address local young women’s menstrual insecurity. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“Altrusa Salina is targeting a need unknown to many in our community,“ says Brandi McQueen, chair of The Period Project. “The awareness and donations generated by The Period Project will help local, school-age young women feel less stressed during a key time in their lives.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to recent national data, nearly one in four students struggle to afford feminine hygiene products. Additionally, 44% of teens report feelings of stress and embarrassment due to lack of access to feminine-hygiene products. 

It is estimated that one out of 10 menstruating youth miss school during their cycle because they cannot easily access menstrual-managing products. Adds McQueen, “As part of the global Days For Girls effort, The Period Project will help young women feel more prepared and focused for school,” furthering their education in a small yet significant way, every day.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information about how to help,&nbsp;email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:theperiodprojectsalina@gmail.com">theperiodprojectsalina@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;or visit:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573247592379">https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573247592379</a>&nbsp;.

Altrusa International of Salina, Kansas, is a civic organization dedicated to community service, with a strong emphasis on literacy and support for women and children. Chartered in 1944, the club is part of Altrusa International District Eight, encompassing clubs across Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri and Arkansas.

Altrusa announces new project to benefit local young women

A male suspect was arrested after attempting to steal a flatbed utility trailer valued at $5,000.

According to Salina Police Captain James Feldman, this past Sunday around noon a 39-year old male of Salina reported that 76-year old, Wilburn McCollum was trying to steal his trailer that was parked on 700 Plaza Dr.

Before the report, neighbors in the vicinity called the 39-year old man that McCollum was in the process of stealing the trailer. The man was away from the area at the time, but called police about the issue.

After he called police, the man arrived where the trailer was and confronted McCollum. He was able to keep McCollum from stealing the trailer without physical contact, and officers arrived shortly after the confrontation.

After further investigation, police arrested McCollum for attempting to steal the trailer.

Arrest made after suspect attempts to steal trailer valued at $5,000

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

The Southeast of Saline softball team secured yet another NCAA league title on Monday, securing a split in a Trojan War with Beloit.

SES would claim a 12-3 victory in game one before Beloit came back to take the regular season finale 6-4.

Game One: SE of Saline 12, Beloit 3

The Lady Trojans knew from the jump that they needed just one league win to claim the crown, and wasted no time making it happen, plating two runs in the first, another in the third and fifth, and four in the fourth and seventh.

Kyiah Samualson was lethal at the plate, finishing her day 3-5 with 4 RBI and three runs scored.

Everyone got in on the fun as eight different Lady Trojans recorded a hit, and four drove in at least one run.

Karlee Zurfluh was excellent in the circle, allowing just two earned runs, issuing no walks, and recording seven strikeouts, the last of which was a game-winner and her 100th of the season.

Game Two: Beloit 6, SE of Saline 4

Beloit would have the last laugh in this series, coming back with a four-run fifth inning to flip a 4-2 deficit into a 6-4 lead.

From there, pitching would allow Beloit to hold on for the win as the Southeast came up empty in the sixth and seventh innings.

Despite ending the season on a loss, Southeast of Saline will be riding high going into regionals, as undisputed league champs at 11-1, and with an overall record of 20-4.

SES will be the one seed in the Silver Lake regional, while Beloit (15-8) will enter the Minneapolis regional as the two seed.

🥎 SES claims NCAA crown, 1-seed at regionals with split at Beloit

By Ted Schultz Grinnell College Sports Information Director

GRINNELL, Iowa – Grinnell College women’s tennis player Lily Perrin ’25 has left her mark on the school record book.

Perrin completed her collegiate career as the school’s all-time leader in doubles victories with 81. She ranks 11th in career singles wins with 58 and her combined 139 victories are just four shy of the school record.

“Tennis has given me so many wonderful experiences. I have met incredible people and played some tough competitors. I am proud to have had so much success at Grinnell,” Perrin said.

Her collegiate career ended on Saturday in the second round of the NCAA Division III Women’s Tennis Championships in St. Louis, MO. Grinnell was eliminated with a 4-0 loss to eventual regional winner Washington University.

On Friday, Perrin got her final doubles win which helped Grinnell College to a 4-1 victory over the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in the first round. Perrin was competing in the NCAA tournament with the Grinnell women’s team for the fourth straight year.

Perrin, a Sacred Heart graduate, was the 2020 Class 3-2-1A Singles State Champion and helped the Knights win the team championship that year.

Former Sacred Heart grad wraps up phenomenal college tennis career

UPLAND, Ind. - The Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes trailed No. 2 seeded and No. 17 ranked Bellevue 3-1 heading into the seventh inning of Monday's NAIA Opening Round game at Winterholter Field at Taylor University.

The Coyotes, who have come back in late game situations several times, were ready to do it again.

Wesleyan got a seventh inning homer by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/29bd1823-e61e-4e96-a5ec-f37c3860dd3c?elinkdata=26645">Blake Dale</a>, and two 2-run shots by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/bbe25a25-31ef-44bc-a35e-4d5774ce93a0?elinkdata=26645">Garrett Garfield</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/eb07ba63-0fe9-4375-ace1-3d7dae16738f?elinkdata=26645">Carter Allen</a> in the eighth to complete the rally and pick up a 6-4 win over the Bruins.

The victory moves the Coyotes along in the winner's bracket of the Opening Round, where they will face top-seeded and No. 9 ranked Taylor on Tuesday at 3 p.m. Central, 4 p.m. Eastern time. Taylor beat Grand View 13-3 in Monday's other first round game.

The Coyotes opened with a 1-0 lead in the top of the first. Garfield singled with two outs and then scored when <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1fc0f40b-dd61-48dc-a9e5-665bd207b29f?elinkdata=26645">Fernando Ruvalcaba</a> singled and a throwing error would bring in Garfield.

Bellevue jumped into the lead 2-1 in the bottom of the fourth inning on a 2-run homer and in the sixth inning pushed the lead out to 3-1 on a sacrifice fly.

Then it was Wesleyan's turn. Dale brought the Coyotes within a run in the top of the seventh on a solo homer and the Coyotes took the lead in the eighth.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ddfbbe90-f9d2-42b8-a572-ab5bd03d6a01?elinkdata=26645">Jacob Williamson</a> led off the inning with a walk and moved to second on a passed ball, but was thrown out trying to score on a double by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d3c35432-5b8b-4986-9c12-d33525e2450e?elinkdata=26645">Tyler Favretto</a>. Garfield then stepped up and smashed a ball out to left field for a 2-run homer putting the Coyotes up 4-3.

After Ruvalcaba singled, Allen stepped up and crushed another ball out to left to put the Coyotes up 6-3.

Bellevue got one back in the bottom of the eighth, and in the ninth, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b43a7fad-2668-4da2-ae79-1b5c09dcbe76?elinkdata=26645">Ritter Steinmann</a> came in and closed the door, recording his ninth save of the season recording all three outs in the inning.

Garfield had three of KWU's 12 hits in the game and drove in two runs. Ruvalcaba, Dale and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e7ca5ba9-f03a-4479-8923-296f262cc136?elinkdata=26645">Eric Romero</a> had two hits each.

⚾️ Coyotes rally past Bellevue for 6-4 win in first game of Opening Round

WICHITA, Kan. (<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4b0da90a-b3b9-4167-9cf5-7e1163269c99?elinkdata=26614">2024-25 Commissioner's Cup Standings</a>) - Kansas Wesleyan University has won the KCAC Commissioner's Cup for the 2024-25 academic year, the conference office announced Monday.

This marks the fifth time the Coyotes have taken home the KCAC Commissioner's Cup in the award's history (dating back to the 2012-13 academic year), and the fifth time in the past six years that Kansas Wesleyan has earned this honor. This year's Commissioner Cup win is also the third straight win for KWU, something that no other institution has done in the history of the award.

"KWU Athletics is honored to once again earn the Commissioner's Cup," <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/db910da8-d5a7-4f4e-81f6-dc647158850f?elinkdata=26614">Miguel Paredes</a>, Athletic Director at Kansas Wesleyan University, remarked. "This win belongs to everyone in the Coyote family, the Salina community, our alumni, faculty, staff and our university leadership. This goes to show our commitment to excellence in everything we do, from top to bottom. Our student-athletes, the coaches and our staff are top-notch and have dedicated countless hours to making us the best we can be. To be the first institution to win the Cup for a third straight year reinforces our commitment to being to the best in everything we do."

The Coyotes led the conference with 185.5 total points, with 66 accumulated in the fall season, 44 picked up in the winter, and 75.5 accumulated in the spring. Friends University was not far behind in the standings, finishing second with 180 points. The third and fourth place institutions were only separated by half a point, with Evangel University finishing third with 162.5 points and the University of Saint Mary taking home fourth place with 162 points. Rounding out the top five was Ottawa University with 156 total points.

"Congratulations to Kansas Wesleyan for winning the KCAC Commissioner's Cup for the third consecutive year," Ted Breidenthal, KCAC commissioner, stated. "Expectations for excellence on and off the field have never been higher at Kansas Wesleyan. These results are proof that the challenge was met by an extraordinary group of student-athletes, coaches and administration."

Kansas Wesleyan found success in a variety of sports throughout the fall, winter, and spring seasons.

In an effort to further recognize the achievements of its student-athletes and member institutions, the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference developed an award for the institution that performs the greatest over the fall, winter, and spring athletic seasons. The KCAC Commissioner's Cup will be awarded annually as a symbol of excellence in athletics representing 20 championships. Member institutions can earn points for their finish of each varsity team in those 20 officially recognized conference sports.

Points are assigned based on regular-season finish for men's and women's soccer, volleyball, men's and women's basketball, baseball, softball, and men's and women's tennis. In football, points are assigned based on overall conference record in the regular season. In competitive cheer, competitive dance, cross country, indoor track &amp; field, men's and women's golf, and outdoor track &amp; field, the conference championship meet results will determine point values. To be a conference sport there must be six member institutions competing in that sport at the varsity level.

Teams who finish in first place will be awarded a maximum number of points equivalent to the total number of teams competing in that respective sport. Point tallies will continue in reverse order until the last place team has been awarded its corresponding point value (i.e. if a sport only has seven teams, point values will be given from the maximum 7 to 1). When two or more teams tie for final placing in the conference standings, each team will be awarded the average of the respective placing. For example, if three teams tied for second place in a sport with 11 teams, those three teams will be given the score of nine points because those three teams are occupying the second (10 points), third (9 points) and fourth (8 points) positions in the standings. The sum of those three positions (27 points) divided by the three teams yields an average score of nine points for each of the teams.

Kansas Wesleyan claims KCAC Commissioner's Cup for third straight year

HOUSTON (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. and Jonathan India each drove in two runs to help Michael Wacha and the Kansas City Royals beat the Houston Astros 7-5 on Monday night.

Michael Massey homered as Kansas City improved to 8-2 in its last 10 games. India finished with three hits, and Witt, Vinnie Pasquantino and Kyle Isbel each had two.

Wacha (3-4) allowed two runs and eight hits in 6 1/3 innings. Carlos Estévez got three outs for his 12th save.

Massey sparked Kansas City's four-run second with a leadoff drive against rookie Ryan Gusto (3-2) for his second homer. India hit a two-out RBI single and scored on Witt's first triple of the season. Pasquantino added a run-scoring single.

Local

Region

Sports

Announcements