Two juveniles were taken to the Juvenile Detention Center after allegedly stealing over $400 worth of items from a convenience store.

According to the Salina Police Department, earlier this Wednesday morning at around 1:30 am, an individual called police after noticing the front door of Rod's 2 convenience store (1339 N. 9th) was allegedly smashed. Officers arrived to the scene and determined that a burglary had occurred.

Police stated that over $400 worth of vapes had been stolen. Throughout the investigation, officers determined that two male juveniles potentially committed the burglary.&nbsp;

Subsequently, officers located the juvenile suspects aged 15 and 17, in the 100 block of W. Otis. The vapes stolen were found and recovered among the juveniles.

Both suspects were arrested and taken into custody for requested charges of Burglary, Theft and Damage to Property. The suspects were transferred to the Juvenile Detention Center in Junction City.

Juveniles arrested after allegedly stealing over $400 worth of items from a convenience store

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Salina Post news tip email address

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Salina Post accepting letters to the editor

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

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

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

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

2024 League of Women Voters General Election Candidate Forum

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

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

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

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

River bridge, road project south of Wilson closed indefinetly 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Precipitation reporting organization seeks local, area volunteers

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

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

Ask the caller specific questions.

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

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

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

Resist the pressure to donate on the spot.

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

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

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

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

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

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

FTC: How to spot and stop dishonest charity fundraisers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

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

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Violation of restrictions on driver's license or permit; Use/poss. drug paraphernalia/human body; Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; Improper turn on approach; Poss. of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact; Use/poss. drug paraphernalia/human body; Poss. of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

*No image available for&nbsp;Stanley Townsend, Elizabeth Grace*

NAME:&nbsp;Stanley Townsend, Elizabeth Grace

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit; Interf. w/LEO; obstr./resist/oppose misd. warrant

Saline County Jail Bookings, July 9

TOPEKA - Kansas Tourism is excited to announce the launch of the 2025 Sunflower Summer program, inviting Kansas families to enjoy a season packed with unforgettable adventures across the state. Created especially for Kansas students and their families, the Sunflower Summer program offers complimentary admission to more than 230 attractions. 

The 2025 season opens Saturday, July 12, and runs through Sunday, August 3.

Participating attractions include museums, discovery centers, historic sites, arboretums, zoos and more. The full list of attractions participating in the 2025 Sunflower Summer program can be found on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fsunflowersummer.org%2F/1/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/6iWXPonvYPpvvXiay0tPmIcijH-XT6uRT4CZeWVPqY4=412">SunflowerSummer.org</a>&nbsp;and on the mobile app.&nbsp;

“Sunflower Summer is more than just a fun family outing – it’s an investment in our future,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “By giving Kansas students the opportunity to experience the rich history, culture and natural beauty of our state, we’re helping the next generation fall in love with Kansas. At the same time, this program drives real economic impact to our communities by supporting local attractions and generating increased visitor spending.”

The Sunflower Summer program is open to all Kansas school-aged students, pre-K through 12th grade, including public, private and homeschooled. Out-of-state students and families are not eligible to participate. The program covers admission costs for eligible students and one adult guardian per attraction, per season. Tickets can be claimed through the free Sunflower Summer app and redeemed at the venue upon arrival. You can download the Sunflower Summer app at the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fapps.apple.com%2Fus%2Fapp%2Fsunflower-summer%2Fid1574268821/1/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/lxOezytosbDVIdhQYVah2PF0bnplJ1lsAzJef2A6DzU=412">Apple App Store</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fplay.google.com%2Fstore%2Fapps%2Fdetails%3Fid=com.slcket.sunflower%26hl=en_US%26gl=US%26pli=1/1/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/Zhtt8dlFczKPsm-y6zYAOJc9AbKvg_roBJqiqXRahw4=412">Google Play Store</a>&nbsp;or at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fsunflowersummer.org%2F/2/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/Jg29JDaM5RfB1IKebpTcE0E1CxuYDp_R3qhH5InaeQ0=412">SunflowerSummer.org</a>.

“We are thrilled to launch another year of the growing and popular Sunflower Summer program,” said&nbsp;Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe. “This exciting lineup of attractions is designed to help Kansas families make the most of their summer—by exploring new places and creating unforgettable memories right here at home.”

To share your Sunflower Summer experiences on social media, use the hashtags&nbsp;#ToTheStarsKS&nbsp;and&nbsp;#SunflowerSummer&nbsp;as you post your travels. 

For more travel inspiration and tips about exploring Kansas, go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.travelks.com%2F/1/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/5DACAzDIlxfJ2Ka4UlTGNdoPdgDDPldn1Qi_YQgt7nY=412">TravelKS.com</a>.

2025 Sunflower Summer free program opens statewide on July 12

A man who grew up away from the country has impacted others within the country and continues to do so genuinely, without wanting anything in return.&nbsp;

Mutaz Abakar (45), originally from Sudan, Africa is a beloved employee at the Salina Family YMCA. Many employees and individuals who attend the YMCA, talk highly of Abakar as he is described as a 'man of the people.'

"Mutaz is a man of the people," said&nbsp;Director of Human Resources and Communications, Cherie Grigsby." "Each day I walk in and he’s standing there prepared to greet me, get members signed in,and share a joke with a guest whose on their way out. Mutaz is the type of human that remembers special occasions and notices the return of members who’ve been gone for a while. People feel seen when they interact with Mutaz and the Y is grateful to have such a superhero on our team."

Abakar grew up in Sudan with his family before receiving his U.S. citizenship in 2014. He lived in a village, attended school and worked with his family on a farm they owned in Sudan. Back in 2005 in his early 20's, Abakar was sent to a refugee camp in Ghana without his family after war conflicts within the country of Africa.

He talked about life within the refugee camp was 'tough,' but overcame the obstacles by building relationships with others.

"Life was tough, but it helped when I built relationships with other people," said Abakar.

After Abakar spent 5 years in the refugee camp, he went through an 18-month long process to get a travel visa in order to work in the U.S. He then arrived in Kansas City, where he improved and worked on speaking English. Abakar was not able to find a job in Kansas City, but moved to Salina where he got his first job at Sunflower Bank, where he also received his GED and earned a <a href="https://www.k-state.edu/news/articles/lists/su15/">Bachelor's Degree from KSU Salina in Engineering Technology.</a>&nbsp;

Abakar then started working at the Salina Family YMCA in 2018 and is currently a manager and membership staff member.

"I love my job and I love meeting new people," said Abakar. "I have to continue to work, I love to stay busy and I cannot imagine myself just not working. I also love to stay positive and be nice to other people."

"We’re lucky to have Mutaz on our team and in our community," said CEO, Chris Lehecka. "The only time he missed opening the Y was during a snowstorm in December 2024, so he bought a truck to make sure it wouldn’t happen again. He’s dependable, well-respected and always brings a fun personality (along with giving us a hard time when we deserve it)."

"Mutaz embodies the YMCA and truly loves his job," said Wellness Director, Hope Varela. "Every year members get him a card and generously donate to his Christmas present. If this isn’t the very definition of someone with great integrity, I do not know who is."

"Mutaz is the face of the YMCA," said Sports Director, Jonathan Barajas. "He is the unsung hero and makes that first brew of coffee for all who walk in at 4:30 am. He always makes sure that you are seen and he is a hard working man, with a sincere heart."

Abakar opens the YMCA everyday before 4:30 am and has been doing so for 7 years.&nbsp;

A 'man of the people' is beloved by the community through his service at the YMCA

The Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) has released its Independence Day Holiday activity report. The reporting period for the holiday ran from 6 p.m. on Thursday, July 3 to 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, July 6, 2025.

The Kansas Highway Patrol worked two non-DUI related fatal crashes which resulted in two non-DUI related fatalities. Information on the fatal crashes can be found on the Kansas Highway Patrol&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.gov/khp-crashlogs/">crash log</a>.

Information from activity report is compared to data from 2023 and 2024. Click <a href="https://kansashighwaypatrol.gov/khp-2025-13-patrol-reports-independence-day-holiday-activity/?utm_source=mailpoet&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source_platform=mailpoet&amp;utm_campaign=khp-2022-26-kansas-highway-patrol-to-mobilize-for-operation-clear-track-159">here</a> to see the data from a table cumulated by the KHP.

KHP releases Independence Day Holiday activity report

Salina Police are searching for a suspect(s) who allegedly stole over $6,000 of tools from a work trailer.

According to the Salina Police Department on Monday, July 7th at around 6:45 am, an employee of&nbsp;Schwerdtfager Masonry reported that an unknown suspect(s) 'cut a lock off a work trailer' that was on the 3800 block of S. 9th and allegedly stole several tools from it. Police stated the alleged crime occurred sometime between 2:00 pm on the 4th of July and 6:30 am on Monday.

The tools that were reportedly stolen were: 

Stihl concrete saws (2), Honda Generator, Hilti Concrete Nailer, Milwaukee Hammer drill and a black Dewalt 20-gallon air compressor.

Total loss was valued to be around $6,500.

Police are searching for suspect(s) who allegedly stole over $6,000 of work tools

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circ.; misd/; Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

Saline County Jail Bookings, July 8

This is day 9 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

Kansas wheat farmers have been facing a challenging wheat harvest due to persistent rains on mature wheat. While test weights have suffered because of this, the 2025 crop has shown stronger yields than the past three drought-stricken years.

Officially, the Kansas wheat harvest is 82 percent complete, behind 90 percent complete last year but ahead of 77 percent average, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service crop progress report for the week ending July 6, 2025.&nbsp;

Josh Debes, a wheat farmer in northern Barton County, is among those still navigating the final stretch of harvest. Rainfall over the past week has forced Debes to chase dry fields across the county in hopes of finishing before another rain delay sets in. His wheat crop, already stressed by drought and a high incidence of wheat streak mosaic virus, is now facing quality declines due to the rain.

“We started with test weights at 60 pounds per bushel on our better fields,” Debes said. “But test weights have dropped since the wheat has been rained on.” Equally stressful has been a constant stream of equipment breakdowns that have kept one or both combines out of fields when Mother Nature has opened up a window for cutting.

Despite the setbacks, Debes expects to harvest&nbsp;more bushels this year than in either of the past two years, when extreme drought nearly wiped out his wheat entirely. “Morale is low, but at least we’ve got bushels to sell to cover the costs of getting this fall’s sorghum crop in the ground,” he added.

Jeff Boyd, CEO of Garden City Coop, reported that wheat harvest in their trade territory is 90 to 95 percent complete. Rains over the holiday weekend have slowed progress, and it may be another two days before combines can roll again in Finney County. Recent storms have also caused lodging in some fields.&nbsp;

Harvest began June 14 at their Hooker, Oklahoma, location. Boyd noted that test weights are averaging around 59 pounds per bushel, and protein levels are coming in at 11.8 percent. Overall, Boyd expects an average to above-average crop in terms of total bushels, with quality landing around average. Yields have ranged widely from the 30s to the 80s, with some of the strongest wheat coming from Finney and Lane counties. Yields have tended to decrease further north. The wheat streak mosaic virus complex has impacted yields and test weights in certain areas, while unusually high humidity has caused threshing issues with some varieties.

In Atchison County, Jay Armstrong wrapped up his Soft Red Winter wheat harvest on July 2 with a farm-wide average of 119 bushels per acre. Only 4.2% of wheat grown in Kansas is SRW, according to USDA/NASS’s winter wheat variety survey for 2025. While Armstrong reported good — but not exceptional — quality and test weights, the biggest challenge this season was getting the crop out between frequent rain delays. His harvested acres have already been planted to doublecrop soybeans.

The 2025 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on social media, use #wheatharvest25. Tag at @kansaswheat to share your harvest story and photos.

Day 9: Kansas Wheat Harvest report

 In keeping with Christ Cathedral’s “Heart of the City” mantra, Mother Shay Craig and Cathedral staff are challenging their church family this summer to work more intentionally to reduce local food insecurity.

Since 1978, when late parishioner and local writer Jo Reed began to hand out sack lunches near the Iron Street bridge, Christ Cathedral has provided daily food to downtown neighbors in need. For the past seven years, Cathedral staff and members have prepared and distributed daily to-go or hot lunches.

The daily hot midday meals previously served at the Cathedral now are provided at Salina Grace Community Resource Center’s newer location on Broadway. The number of Welcome Table meals served in 2024 numbered 14,018 - almost 3,000 more meals that the 10,175 served in 2023.

For 2025, the number of meals served will likely reach 18,000 to 20,000.

“It has been a true blessing to see how our Welcome Table efforts and leadership has grown in the last three years,” says Cathedral office administrator and Welcome Table chef/coordinator Crissy Cook. “The Welcome Table program helps us connect and build community.” Adds Cathedral dean Shay Craig, who tracks food insecurity and other key issues as part of her leadership within the Episcopal Church, “Christ tells us to show our love by feeding his sheep and we are doing just that, and we are inviting others to join us in that high-impact effort.”

Families, individuals, businesses or nonprofits interested in supporting the Welcome Table may donate usable day-old or fresh foodstuffs directly to Christ Cathedral, where the hot lunches are prepared, weekdays 9 to 11 a.m., or to Salina Grace, 315 S. Broadway Blvd., from 11:30am to 12 noon Monday to Friday.

To make a financial donation, give a gift earmarked for “The Welcome Table” to the Cathedral. Those wishing to adopt a day or week to underwrite all needed hot lunches for that time, may donate $120 to sponsor a day or $600 for an entire week, to feed about 80 people a day.

For the last three years, Crissy Cook has ordered all daily-meal foodstuffs, which the Cathedral fully underwrites. She plans and does the daily cooking for each midday meal, which is served three days a week by Cathedral staff or volunteers. Other area churches that also serve the hot lunches are First Presbyterian and Sunrise Presbyterian Church.

On-site volunteers say many Welcome Table participants know each other by name, caring for one another on and off-site. Services that Salina Grace guests can utilize on-site include those of Central Kansas Foundation and other entities. The Salina Grace day shelter most recently added shower and laundry facilities, plus a clothes closet.

“Along with feeding our flock spiritually, the Cathedral understands the practical aspect of nourishing body and spirit,” says Craig. “We feel these ministries go hand-in hand, as the Cathedral continues its 120-year+ legacy as a responsive downtown partner and good neighbor.”

For more details on Christ Cathedral volunteer opportunities, worship times or small group activities, contact Cathedral staff at christcathedral@christcathedralsalina.org, call (785) 827-4440 or find Christ Cathedral at: <a href="https://www.christcathedralsalina.org/">https://www.christcathedralsalina.org/</a>

<a href="https://www.christcathedralsalina.org/"></a>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/christcathedralsalina">https://www.facebook.com/christcathedralsalina/ </a>

Youtube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChristCathedralSalina">https://www.youtube.com/@ChristCathedralSalina</a>&nbsp;

Downtown Salina church works to reduce area food insecurity

Kansas Corporation Commission&nbsp;

TOPEKA - This afternoon, the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) approved two settlement agreements which allow Evergy Kansas Central (EKC) to recover the cost of three new generation facilities intended to meet increasing electric demand and improve reliability. 

Last fall, the utility announced plans to build two gas plants and a solar facility. Evergy filed an application with the Commission in November, requesting a determination of how costs incurred will be recovered from customers.

The application generated a great deal of interest. In addition to Evergy and Commission Staff, 31 parties sought and were granted the right to intervene and formally participate in the proceedings. As a result of their work, the Commission was presented with two settlement agreements for consideration: a unanimous settlement agreement regarding the solar facility, and a non-unanimous settlement agreement on the gas plants.

Evergy is proposing the new solar facility (Kansas Sky) to be located in Douglas County and owned 100% by Evergy Kansas Central. The estimated cost of construction is $228.1 million. After careful review, the Commission found the unanimous settlement agreement related to Kansas Sky was supported by substantial, competent evidence, will result in just and reasonable rates, and is in the public interest.&nbsp; In making this finding, the Commission found the arguments regarding resource diversification compelling.&nbsp; To date, very little utility-scale solar generation has been successfully developed in Kansas, and the profile and attributes of solar energy, if developed, will be complimentary to existing generation in the region, including wind generation.

Evergy’s gas plant proposal calls for two 710 MW combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) plants. The Viola plant will be located near Evergy’s Viola Substation in Sumner County and is expected to operate by January 1, 2029. The McNew plant will be built in Reno County and is expected to operate by January 1, 2030. Evergy Kansas Central and Evergy Missouri West will each have 50% ownership in the gas plants. The cost of construction to Evergy Kansas Central is estimated at $788.75 million for the Viola plant and $800.52 million for the McNew plant.

The Commission finds approving the CCGT Settlement is in the public interest.&nbsp; The Commission believes the CCGT Settlement is an efficient and reliable plan to add generation capacity to Evergy’s fleet.&nbsp; Furthermore, the Commission believes the CCGT Settlement contains sufficient safeguards and guardrails to protect customers in the event of cost overruns.

The CCGT settlement will not immediately impact rates. Other than the Construction Work in Progress (CWIP) rider recently authorized by the Legislature, which Evergy can begin utilizing 365 days after construction begins on each plant, no other costs will be added to rates until Evergy files a subsequent rate case.

The frequency of rate cases is also addressed by the Commission in today’s order.

“The Commission is troubled by the frequency and magnitude of rate cases and strongly encourages Evergy to focus on pacing investment to better align with load growth and mitigate large rate increases. The Commission understands new investment is needed to support reliability and economic development in Kansas. However, affordability must be a major priority and proactively pursued as Evergy addresses a seemingly endless list of “justifiable” projects and initiatives. To meet future capacity needs, for example, the Commission will expect Evergy to demonstrate its serious consideration of less capital-intensive options like demand response, utilization of surplus interconnection sites and grid-enhancing technologies.”

Today’s order is available&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Festar.kcc.ks.gov%2Festar%2FViewFile.aspx%2F20250707160058.pdf%3FId=f3d2fd2f-6005-4568-bfca-79feb1e5a4b1%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010197e6c329a9-7ffe92da-dbc2-487e-b524-0531585d5ca5-000000/X4BKq9SmF4rGXiEYpfxgnymDWRqYGPyoaMwonZzQTDU=412">here</a>.

The Kansas Sky unanimous settlement agreement is available&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Festar.kcc.ks.gov%2Festar%2FViewFile.aspx%2FS202506191320136620.pdf%3FId=6874a3e4-30d9-4ed1-98f3-bb3ea669343e%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010197e6c329a9-7ffe92da-dbc2-487e-b524-0531585d5ca5-000000/Wrwu82R9xaeQfkB1iLWZuXa7EuZ7uk1JRm-2KWQPvm8=412">here</a>.

The CCGT non-unanimous settlement agreement is available&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Festar.kcc.ks.gov%2Festar%2FViewFile.aspx%2FS202506191321464995.pdf%3FId=7ea9a1a2-7ab0-4370-92b5-ded2709ee839%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010197e6c329a9-7ffe92da-dbc2-487e-b524-0531585d5ca5-000000/YiZ5GYGbUJu-7DxIu6tFlwwUA7ceW1Cor8_-hwvI1p0=412">here</a>.

A recording of today’s Business Meeting featuring comments by Commissioners, is available on the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery%26v=zqpXhi0C7Rs/1/01010197e6c329a9-7ffe92da-dbc2-487e-b524-0531585d5ca5-000000/uWOejgOEfBhOtbcY5LjeObD8UEAWGts2NjbK6mc6Z5c=412">KCC YouTube channel.</a>

KCC approves settlement agreements allowing Evergy to recover costs to build two gas plants and a solar facility

Three suspects from the July's 2025 Most Wanted list have been arrested according to the Saline County Sheriff's Office.&nbsp;

Tyler Bastin,&nbsp;Sevijon Davis and Brook Gray.

Booking photos with requested charges are listed in order below.

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony FTA / Agg. Burg. / Interf. w/ LEO / Batt. On LEO x3 / Theft / Agg. Endanger Child x2 / DUI / Batt. / Theft / DMG. To Prop. / Crim. Tress.

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Theft of prop/services: Value less than $1,500; Failure to appear (2 requested charges); Use/poss. drug paraphernalia/human body; Poss. of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont. substance; Criminal Discharge of firearm; Vehicle w/person; Unlawful discharge of firearm in city limits; Interf. w/LEO; obstr./resist/oppose felony warrant; Crim. poss. weapon by a convicted felon

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Failure to appear (2 requested charges)

Three suspects from July 2025 Most Wanted list arrested 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Nick Loftin hit a go-ahead two-run homer in the seventh inning, then won it in the ninth with a one-out RBI single as the Kansas City Royals beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 4-3 on Tuesday night.

Rookie Jac Caglianone homered for the Royals,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MLB/status/1942737397579669574">a 421-foot drive</a>&nbsp;leading off the second inning that was his first extra-base hit in 14 games at Kauffman Stadium. He had been 5 for 46 at home before Tuesday.

Pittsburgh's Oneil Cruz tied it in the fourth with&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MLB/status/1942743739161596193">a 458-foot shot</a>&nbsp;over the fountains in right field on the day he was announced as a participant&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oneil-cruz-pirates-home-run-derby-e0d48db4b4f6792bbca476b590a1dac1">in next-week's Home Run Derby</a>.

Nick Gonzales put the Pirates ahead with a homer in the top of the seventh before Loftin's drive made it 3-2.

Bryan Reynolds tied it with an RBI grounder in the eighth.

Maikel Garcia singled leading off the ninth against Dennis Santana (2-2) and Salvador Perez followed with a base hit. With one out, Isaac Mattson came in and gave up Loftin's game-ending hit on a 1-0 fastball.

The Pirates fell to 0-5 to start their nine-game trip ahead of the All-Star Break. Kansas City has won five of six.

Carlos Estevez (3-2) worked a scoreless ninth for Kansas City.

The Pirates' Mitch Keller and the Royals' Seth Lugo, both rumored to be trade candidates before the July 31 deadline, were nearly identical through six innings. Each allowed one run on three hits with five strikeouts.

The Pirates loaded the bases with one out in the eighth against Lucas Erceg, who gave up Reynolds' tying fielder's-choice grounder and then retired Gonzales on another groundball.

The Royals had their second straight multi-homer game after not having done that all season.

The teams complete their three-game series Wednesday night with Pittsburgh's Bailey Falter (6-4, 3.69 ERA) facing Kris Bubic (7-6, 2.36).

⚾ Nick Loftin hits 2-run homer in 7th as Royals beat the Pirates

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. and Salvador Perez hit two of Kansas City's four home runs to back a strong start by rookie Noah Cameron, and the Royals beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 9-3 on Monday night.

Cameron (3-4) struck out seven in a season-high seven innings. The left-hander allowed three hits, a walk, and two runs — on Tommy Pham's two-run shot in the third.

Witt went 2 for 3 and scored twice to extend his hitting streak to 11 games.&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1942388380320387120">Witt hit his 13th homer</a>, a two-run shot the opposite way to right-center field off reliever Chase Shugart to give the Royals a 6-2 lead in the fourth. He added a sacrifice fly in the sixth.

Witt finished off a seven-game trip Sunday by extending his club-record hitting streak on the road to 25 games.

<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1942391158166151263">Perez hit his 11th</a>&nbsp;homer, a solo shot to left in the fifth for a five-run advantage. He hit his 24th double off the top of the wall in left to drive in a run for a 3-2 lead in the third.

Vinnie Pasquantino hit a two-out pitch from Andrew Heaney in the first for his 15th homer and a 1-0 lead. Nick Loftin hit his second, a one-out solo shot off Génesis Cabrera in the eighth. Heaney (4-8) threw 76 pitches and allowed four runs in three innings.

Pham's homer was his third. It snapped Pittsburgh's 30-inning scoreless streak and gave the Pirates a 2-1 lead.

Steven Cruz pitched a scoreless eighth and Jonathan Bowlan allowed Alexander Canario's RBI single in the ninth to finish for Kansas City.

Cameron didn't surrender a hit after Bryan Reynolds' leadoff single in the third.

The Royals hit more home runs in their first home game of July than they did in the month of June.

⚾ Witt Jr. and Perez homer as Royals beat the Pirates

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State junior linebacker&nbsp;Austin Romaine&nbsp;and senior tight end&nbsp;Will Swanson&nbsp;earned nods on the 2025 Preseason All-Big 12 team as voted on by media representatives who cover the league, the conference office announced Monday.

Both players are coming off All-Big 12 seasons as Romaine earned second-team honors and Swanson was an honorable mention pick.

A product of Hillsboro, Missouri, Romaine played in every game a year ago with 12 starts, leading the team with 96 tackles to go along with 7.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, three forced fumbles and two pass breakups. He tied for fifth in the Big 12 in forced fumbles and finished ninth in tackles as he also earned All-Big 12 Second Team accolades from the Associated Press.

Romaine tallied the most tackles in a season by a Wildcat since Jayd Kirby had 99 in 2017 thanks to at least five stops in 11 games, including a career-high 12 tackles at West Virginia, Houston and Iowa State. His first in the line of 12-tackle performances against the Mountaineers were the most by a Wildcat in a single game since Daniel Green had 13 at Baylor in 2020.

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