A Lincoln County native and U.S. Army Veteran has produced and is on tour showing a documentary, that is meant help solve the problem of veteran suicide.

"Saving 22" a documentary by Gary Otte, who is on tour going across Kansas is showcasing stories of veterans who fight daily mental battles, after their years of service for the country. This Sunday, July 13th Otte will show his documentary, 'Saving 22' at VFW Post 1432 on 1108&nbsp;W. Crawford St.&nbsp;

Doors open at 1:00 pm and the documentary will show at 2:00 pm. Admission&nbsp;is $10 and all proceeds will benefit towards U.S. Veteran's overall life and health. Networks of healthcare professionals will be present during the event as veterans or families of veterans will get a chance to seek professional help for themselves or loved ones.

According to Otte, the mission of this documentary and tour is to bring community leaders, nonprofits, veterans and veterans' loved ones to create a network offering of help and hope. Otte emphasizes that community/togetherness is important in problem solving and helping eliminate veteran suicide.

"Alone we lose, together we eliminate veteran suicide," said Otte.

For more information about 'Saving 22' go to: <a href="https://www.acastleonahillproductions.com/saving-22-documentary">https://www.acastleonahillproductions.com/saving-22-documentary</a>&nbsp;

You can also follow 'Saving 22' Facebook page at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1353061889094080">https://www.facebook.com/groups/1353061889094080</a>&nbsp;

🎥 Documentary dedicated to eliminating veteran suicide showing Sunday in Salina

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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

The US National Weather Service Wichita, KS has announced that rain and storms are beginning to move east into central Kansas as of 9:45 pm, late Thursday evening.

According to the US National Weather Service Wichita, KS, the strongest storms will be capable of producing up to '60 mph winds and quarter size hail.

The National Weather Services advises to stay vigilant and have multiple ways to receive any updates or warnings.

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>.&nbsp;

UPDATE: Storms moving towards Central Kansas late Thursday evening

This is day 11 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.

Despite early drought, uneven stands and losses to wheat streak mosaic virus, some farmers are reporting better than expected yields, with test weights and protein levels starting strong before tapering off due to late rains. Overall, the 2025 season has been an improvement over recent years.

Stan Remington, CEO of Frontier Ag, described this year’s wheat harvest as average overall, though results varied across their trade territory, which stretches from the Colorado border to Ogallah along I-70, and from the Nebraska line south to Ransom and Utica along Highway 4. With harvest now about 90 percent complete in their territory, Remington noted that the 2025 season stands out as above average when compared to the past few years.

In the northwest corner of the state, yields came in a little lower than expected. Fields north of Highway 24 also struggled, with several producers reporting below-average performance. Meanwhile, the Ness County area saw a stronger crop. As with most years, weather conditions made all the difference.

One of the bigger challenges this year came from wheat streak mosaic virus, which showed up more frequently along the I-70 corridor. These areas saw some of the most disappointing harvest results across Frontier Ag’s footprint, with Oakley and locations to the east experiencing the most severe impact from the virus. The presence of the virus in concentrated pockets dragged down yields.

Protein levels were also varied across the region. Weather conditions earlier in the growing season took a toll on quality in some areas. In addition, timing of spring rains played a key role. Fields that missed those critical windows saw reduced performance. Scattered showers during harvest also caused occasional delays, slowing progress in some locations.

Brian Linin, a farmer from Goodland, reports that harvest began on July 1 and his crew has about 10 days left. Linin, who farms alongside his dad and son, says their wheat is better than it looked, averaging above 50 bushels per acre so far, much better than last year and slightly above average.&nbsp;

Last fall’s drought conditions forced the Linins to redrill some fields in early November, a decision that significantly improved both stand establishment and yields. In fact, fields drilled later in the season are outperforming the earlier-emerging wheat across the area.

Test weights have been strong, ranging from 58 to 61.5 pounds per bushel, while protein levels are above average, running between 13.5 and 14 percent. Linin reported that drought was the biggest challenge this season, adding, “If we had received rain a month earlier, yields would be so much better.”

“Wheat is an excellent crop for this area,” said Linin, emphasizing that it fits well into their rotation. The stubble left behind greatly benefits the soil and improves the subsequent crop, and with decent yields, wheat can be a good cash crop.

In Lane County, farmer Ron Suppes, who grows hard white wheat, says he’s about 98 percent done with harvest and is working to finish up the last bit between rain showers. He brought in his first load about two weeks ago.

Suppes says recent rains have knocked down test weights, which started out about 61 to 63 pounds per bushel but have since dropped to 57 to 58 pounds. Protein levels have also dropped, starting out at 12 to 12.5 percent and are now sitting closer to 11 percent.

He says one of the biggest challenges this season started last fall, when wheat was planted into very dry soil. That led to uneven stands and staggered maturity across his fields, making harvest more complicated. Suppes planted KS Big Bow, KS Silverado and KS Snow Fox this year, and says all three have held up well despite the season’s challenges.

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 11: Kansas Wheat Harvest report

ABILENE - The Abilene Police Department (APD) arrested a male teenager after he was allegedly driving a stolen vehicle and believed to be connected to other crimes.

According to APD on Tuesday, July 8th, the police department received multiple reports of damaged and vehicle break-ins that took place within downtown Abilene. The following day (Wednesday, July 9th), an officer conducted a traffic stop on a white Nissan Rogue in downtown at around 4:20 am. The driver of the Nissan stopped and as the officer was approaching the vehicle, the driver drove away.

A vehicle pursuit began but shortly after, the driver lost control and wrecked near the intersections of Northwest 14th and North Cedar St.&nbsp;

The driver was identified as a 14-year boy and was taken into custody by APD without incident. It was determined that the Nissan was stolen.

After further investigation, APD believed that the teenager is responsible for the alleged crimes that were reported on Tuesday. He was placed in Juvenile Detention and is facing requested charges that include:

Theft of a Motor Vehicle, Burglary, Criminal Damage to Property, and Flee and Elude.

Male teenager arrested in Abilene after allegedly stealing a car and believed to be connected to other crimes 

TOPEKA - Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the Department of Commerce has awarded $4.1 million through the Community Service Tax Credit Program (CSP) to support significant fundraising efforts for 30 non-profit organizations across the state.

“Strong, vibrant communities are what draw new businesses, visitors and potential residents to Kansas,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“CSP allows locally led initiatives to attract additional capital support – and further expand the economic opportunities in their communities.”

The Community Service Tax Credit Program provides an opportunity for non-profit organizations and public healthcare entities to improve their ability to undertake major capital campaigns involving community service, non-governmental crime prevention, youth apprenticeship and technical training, and healthcare services.

Under the program, the state authorizes nonprofit organizations to offer tax credits to donors that make contributions towards approved projects. Organizations in rural areas with populations less than 15,000 can receive a 70% credit, while communities with more than 15,000 population can receive a 50% credit.

“We know that thriving communities are the foundation of a strong economy, and these awards empower organizations to take on bold investments in the future of Kansas,”&nbsp;Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez said. “From early childhood education to mental health services, these projects will be transformative for our Kansas communities.”

A few highlights from the latest round of awardees include:

Tax credits through this program have been issued in Kansas since 1994. Program funds are one of the many tools provided by Commerce that supports nonprofits. To view the complete list of 2025 awardees and their projects, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansascommerce.gov%2Fprogram%2Fcommunity-programs%2Fcsp%2F/1/01010197efbdda13-0cb9d3e5-2fc1-4d2d-8d12-d57eb4786593-000000/3Z7h22BaGry3YlgIG3V8IaXAFOMiTrLGm6Fblb-vElI=413">here</a>.

Commerce awards $4.1 million in tax credits to spur revitalization efforts

SALINE COUNTY &amp; MCPHERSON COUNTY - Local students are among Wichita State University's (WSU) spring 2025 graduate and Dean's Honor Roll list.&nbsp;

According to WSU, more than 1,950 students completed a total of 2,122 degrees and certificates at the institution this spring. There were a total of&nbsp;1,430 degrees and certificates for 1,340 undergraduate students. A total of&nbsp;692 degrees and certificates for 611 graduate students.

Undergraduate students who have attained a grade point average of 3.9 out of a possible 4.0 received the summa cum laude award, those with an average of 3.55 received the magna cum laude award and those with an average of 3.25 received the cum laude.

The local students who have graduated from WSU are listed by hometown, state, name, degree, major, honors (if listed):

Bachelor of Science, Forensic Science, Cum Laude&nbsp;

Bachelor of Science, Geology BS, Magna Cum Laude, Honors Baccalaureate, Honors Baccalaureate, Magna Cum Laude, Undergraduate Certificate, Environment/Sustainability Cer

B.A. in Exercise Science, Exercise Science, Magna Cum Laude

Master of Human Resource Mgmt, Human Resource Management&nbsp;

 Bachelor of Arts in Education, ECU/Elementary Educ Apprentice, Magna Cum Laude&nbsp;

 BS in Nursing, Nursing, Summa Cum Laude&nbsp;

Bachelor of Arts, Political Science, Magna Cum Laude, Undergraduate Certificate, Tilford Diversity Studies Cert&nbsp;

 Bachelor of Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Cum Laude&nbsp;

 Bachelor of General Studies, General Studies Sociology, Cum Laude&nbsp;

Bachelor of Business Admin., Accounting&nbsp;

 Bachelor of Arts, Journalism &amp; Media Production, Cum Laude&nbsp;

Doctor of Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy&nbsp;

 Bachelor of Business Admin., Marketing, Cum Laude&nbsp;

 Bachelor of General Studies, General Studies Psychology&nbsp;

 Master of Social Work, Social Work&nbsp;

 Bachelor of Science, Chemistry (ACS)&nbsp;

 B.S. in Mechanical Engr, Mechanical Engineering

According to WSU, a total of 3,710 students who were on the Dean's Honor Roll for spring 2025.&nbsp;To be included on the Dean's Honor Roll, a student must be enrolled full time (at least 12 credit hours) and earn at least a 3.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale.&nbsp;

The local students who earned this achievement from WSU are listed by hometown, state and name:

Local students among WSU spring 2025 graduate and Dean's Honor Roll list

<a href="https://railfan.com/">Railfan &amp; Railroad Magazine</a>

ABILENE - A General Electric 44-tonner that once worked for the U.S. Army has been restored at Kansas’ Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley and named in honor of Abilene’s most famous resident, former President Dwight D. Eisenhower. 

The locomotive was dedicated last month during the anniversary of the D-Day invasion of Europe (Eisenhower was the Supreme Commander of Allied forces during World War II).&nbsp;The 44-tonner, dubbed “Ike,” was built in 1940 for the Arkansas Valley Interurban Railway. 

Two years later, that line was shut down, and the locomotive was acquired by the U.S. Army for use on a base in California. It worked there until 1969, when it was put into storage in Utah. Later, it ended up at a cement plant in Nebraska, where it operated into the 1990s. It was then purchased by a private individual and brought to Kansas. It was used on the A&amp;SV for a few years before being placed into storage again. 

A few years ago, the railroad began looking for a new locomotive and turned to the 44-tonner. Working with the mechanical staff of the Durango &amp; Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, A&amp;SV was able to put the 44-tonner back into service this year.

The engine has been painted in maroon and gold, a color scheme adopted two years ago to represent the A&amp;SV’s Rock Island Railroad heritage. The engine is numbered 34 to honor Dwight Eisenhower’s status as the 34th President, and “I Like Ike” campaign button decals are featured on the cab doors.

“I’m happy to see that after 30 years on the property here, it’s in good running condition with fresh paint. It really looks great. And I think it’s going to be a credit and of great value to the museum and the Abilene and Smoky Valley,” said A&amp;SV Founder Joe Minick.

‘Ike’ locomotive makes debut at Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad

ELLSWORTH - A golf tournament that is meant to help grow the economy of Ellsworth County is set to take place next month.

On Saturday, August 9th from 8:30 am - 3:30 pm, <a href="https://www.growellsworthcounty.com/">Grow Ellsworth County</a> will host a "Swinging for Growth" golf tournament at the Ellsworth Golf Course on 900 E. 2nd St. All proceeds accumulated during the event will benefit Grow Ellsworth County.

Cost is $280 per team, formatted as a '4-man scramble' type tournament. Golf-cart rentals are $18 per person and will be available at the golf course.

Highlights of the golf tournament will include, raffles/prizes, generous flight payouts for 3 flights and lunch provided for free by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellsworthcountycancerfund.org/">Ellsworth County Cancer Fund.</a>

You can register by calling (785) 472-4236 or (785) 906- 1371. Entries are&nbsp;limited.

Visit Grow Ellsworth County's Facebook page by clicking <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/620248270581163/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22surface%22%3A%22home%22%7D%2C%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22attachment%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22newsfeed%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D">here</a>&nbsp;for any additional information.

Grow Ellsworth County is a registered 501(c)(6) governed by a Board of Directors representing the County of Ellsworth. The organization is funded through a variety of sources, including taxing entities (county and municipalities) and through business investments.

Golf tournament to help grow the economy of Ellsworth County set for August 

Thunderstorms are expected to occur on Thursday evening throughout parts of central Kansas.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), scattered thunderstorms are expected to move into central Kansas this evening with a few strong to severe storms possible. The storms are expected to occur around 7:00 pm and likely last till about 2:00 am, early Friday morning.

The National Weather Service encourages to ensure you have a plan if you are outdoors and storms start to approach your location.

Eagle radio/media stations&nbsp;99.9FM KSKG&nbsp;and&nbsp;910AM/107.5FM KINA&nbsp;will be giving live updates on air if necessary.

Thunderstorms expected throughout central Kansas on Thursday evening

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;Failure to appear

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Harrison, Kenneth Wayne

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Violation of restrictions on driver's license or permit; Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; Improper driving on laned roadway

Saline County Jail Bookings, July 10

A male suspect was allegedly 'jumped' before stealing items from a business and is currently facing requested warrants for his arrest.

According to the Salina Police Department On Wednesday, July 9th at around 2:30 pm, employees from Gordine Auto Service on 500 W. North St. reported a burglary that occurred at the business. Employees stated that they left the business at around noon when the burglary happened.&nbsp;

When they returned, the employees reported that they saw food on the floor of the business. Afterwards they reviewed security footage and saw a man enter business without forced entry. Police stated the man allegedly stole a Dell laptop, a bag of chips and bread.

Officers arrived to the scene and reviewed security footage. They were able to identify the suspect.

Later on at around 6:00 pm, officers went to the 100 block of S. Ohio after reports of man 'lying in the grass.' They identified the man as the suspect who burglarized&nbsp;Gordine Auto Service. Officers then interviewed the suspect and noticed he had 'facial injuries.'

According to police, the suspect stated that prior to the burglary he was in the area of 781 N. Broadway and was 'jumped by several people.' The suspect said that medication and a bike was stolen from him.&nbsp;He was then transported to Salina Regional Health Center, where the suspect was treated for facial fractures and an injury to his eye that required surgery. 

The suspect is currently facing warrants that were requested by police.

Suspect gets 'jumped' before allegedly stealing items from a business

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

The Sacred Heart football program finds itself in an interesting position ahead of the next KSHSAA reclassification cycle.

With 8-man eligibility increasing from an enrollment cap of 100 students to 110, the question of whether to remain in 1A or move to 8-man looms large over the community.

A survey conducted by Sacred Heart earlier this week sheds insight into the views of students, faculty, parents, and alumni on the issue ahead of what’s sure to be another challenging football season.

Since the 2014 season, the Knights have a combined record of 29-71, with a high watermark of 5-5 back in 2015.

In that 11-season span, Sacred Heart has utilized six different head coaches, including five in the last six seasons.

Like many other schools around the state, lowered participation has played a role in this decline and helps to make the case for making the move to 8-man football, but despite all that, it’s a move that many in Salina strongly oppose.

According to the survey conducted by Sacred Heart, 79% of parents (42 responses) and 89% of students (9 responses) oppose the move to 8-man.

This sentiment is in stark contrast to the alumni and faculty, who voiced support of the move by margins of 53% (30 responses) and 80% (10 responses) respectively.

Current players who support staying in a 1A 11-man format cited it as being the “traditional and correct form of football” and pointed out that 11-man football allows for deeper participation, more positions, and a better chance to specialize, while those opposed cited the move to 8-man as a “better fit for a small school with the potential to increase competitiveness.”

Parents who oppose the move to 8-man brought up Sacred Heart’s rich football tradition, and stated that a move like this could be construed as a weakness, while those in favor brought up issues like player safety, and highlighted that the choice to move back to 11-man in the future will always be there.

That tradition did see the Knights post a .500 or better season 16 times in the 17 years between 1992-2008, with a 10-1 finish in 1999, a 12-1 finish in 2002, and a 10-1 season in 2007.

On the other hand, the success of Ell-Saline and the improvement of Bennington during their time in 8-man have set a precedent for teams that make the move from traditional 11-man football.

Regardless of what the school and community decide, the Knights will remain in 1A 11-man and the NCAA for the upcoming 2025 season, where they will open a new campaign with Ellsworth on September 5th.

Sacred Heart ponders potential move to 8-man football

TOPEKA, Kan. - The KSHSAA State Basketball Tournament format and sites have been selected for the next two seasons. In 2026, the 1A Division I semifinals and finals will be played at United Wireless Arena in Dodge City. The 2A and 1A Division II semifinals and finals will be played at White Auditorium in Emporia while 3A and 4A semifinals and finals will be played at The Hutchinson Sports Arena at Hutchinson Community College. In the largest school classifications, 5A and 6A semifinals and finals will be played at Koch Arena at Wichita State University. This will mark the first time since 1953 when state championship games of multiple classes were played at the same place.&nbsp;

In 2027, both Divisions of 1A semifinals and finals will be played at Tony’s Pizza Events Center in Salina. Class 2A and Class 4A semifinals and finals will be played at Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan. The 3A semifinals and finals will be played at The Sports Arena at Hutchinson Community College. The 5A and 6A semifinals will be played at White Auditorium in Emporia.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://soundcloud.com/kshsaa-covered/state-basketball-format-change-discussed/s-mtMTeCFwSTy?utm_source=clipboard&amp;utm_medium=text&amp;utm_campaign=social_sharing&amp;si=e90a0c798e0e45afa89c0a88b29820f7" target="_blank">Listen to the companion podcast to this release – KSHSAA Covered – State Basketball Format Change</a>&nbsp;

“The KSHSAA is an association of member schools, and the school leaders have asked for class consolidation of championships.” said KSHSAA Executive Director Bill Faflick. “This new format will achieve that result and provide a greater focus on the student athletes competing at the highest level with four state title games being played consecutively on championship Saturday. This modification allows basketball to follow the recently implemented format for championship soccer and football championship games.&nbsp; With more titles being determined at one location, the atmosphere in the championship arenas will be at an all-time high.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The state tournament begins with the quarterfinal round which will be hosted at seven venues in five cities. To advance to the semifinals and finals sites, teams will need to win the state quarterfinal round games which will be played at United Wireless Arena, Tony’s Pizza Events &nbsp;Center in Salina, Mabee Arena at Kansas Wesleyan University, Koch Arena, Garvey Center at Friends University, White Auditorium, and the Kansas City Kansas Community College Fieldhouse in Kansas City.&nbsp;&nbsp;

2026 State Basketball Tournament Quarterfinal Schedule:&nbsp;

6A, 4A, 2A Girls, 5A, 3A, 1A Boys Quarterfinals – March 10 (United Wireless Arena, Koch Arena, Friends University, Tony’s Pizza Events Center, Kansas Wesleyan University, White Auditorium, KCKCC Fieldhouse)&nbsp;

5A, 3A, 1A Girls, 6A, 4A, 2A Boys Quarterfinals – March 11 (United Wireless Arena, Koch Arena, Friends University, Tony’s Pizza Events Center, Kansas Wesleyan University, White Auditorium, KCKCC Fieldhouse)&nbsp;

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