Every student’s journey to a bachelor’s degree looks different — and sometimes, students need help finding their unique paths. 

That’s why&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/">Kansas State University</a>&nbsp;is partnering with technical colleges in two of its campus communities — Manhattan and Salina — to launch new, innovative programs that meet students where they are and ensure they have a pathway to complete a bachelor’s degree.

Under these new programs, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/admissions/undergrad/manhattan/apply/other-applicant/mhk-pathway/">MHK Pathway program</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/admissions/apply/sln-pathway.html">SLN Pathway program</a>, eligible students who do not meet the academic requirements for admission to K-State as degree-seeking freshmen will be able to live in a K-State residence hall, participate in university programming and experience K-State student life their first year, all while completing courses concurrently at either&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://manhattantech.edu/">Manhattan Area Technical College</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://salinatech.edu/">Salina Area Technical College</a>.

Students will work toward K-State’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/admissions/undergrad/manhattan/apply/transfer/">transfer requirements</a>, ultimately continuing on at K-State with the completion of their bachelor’s degree within reach.

“The MHK and SLN Pathway programs are collectively just one way we demonstrate our commitment of educational access, as the programs have the potential to support hundreds of students each year who may not have believed a bachelor’s degree was within reach” said Jesse Perez Mendez, K-State provost and executive vice president. “This is all about creating opportunity, breaking down barriers and ensuring these students know their success matters to us.”

With burgeoning technological advancements, today’s corporations and businesses are evolving — and this evolution in business practices and structures is projected to drive demand for the types of skills that higher education degrees are known to develop.

According to a recent report from Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce titled "The Future of Good Jobs: Projections Through 2031,” 66% of “good jobs” by 2031 will require a bachelor’s degree.

In the report, a “good job” is defined as one that pays at least $43,000 and a median salary of $74,000 for workers ages 25–44; for workers ages 45–64, it is defined as a job that pays at least $55,000 and a median salary of $91,000. Salary numbers within the report are based on 2022 dollars.

“Making these socioeconomic boosting bachelor’s degrees possible for students within the Kansas communities where they live —or wish to live — is just one piece of the potential impact this initiative can generate,” said Richard Linton, K-State president.“Students can stay rooted within the communities that support them as they pursue their degrees and build the futures they are after, and maybe even one day, they will choose to give back to these places that helped shape them."

How Manhattan Tech and Salina Tech partnerships promote pathways to college

Under both the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/admissions/undergrad/manhattan/apply/other-applicant/mhk-pathway/">MHK Pathway program</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/admissions/apply/sln-pathway.html">Salina Pathway program</a>, students who apply for spring 2026 freshman admission to K-State but do not meet the academic requirements for admission will be reviewed for program eligibility. K-State will then extend invitations to its first cohort of MHK and SLN Pathway students to start the program in spring 2026.

While participating in these one-year programs, students will be required to take a minimum of three credit hours at K-State and nine transferable credit hours at Manhattan Tech or Salina Tech per semester during the fall and spring. They will do this while living in a K-State residence hall with full access to university programming and K-State student life.

Upon completing a minimum 24 cumulative college credit hours and earning a minimum 2.0 grade point average, MHK and SLN Pathway students will be eligible for admission to K-State as a transfer student for the following fall semester.

MHK and SLN Pathway students will pay tuition and fees for the respective courses taken at both K-State and either Manhattan Tech or Salina Tech. Students will be able to apply for financial aid for the program through their technical college of choice, who will process and award all federal and state financial aid during the students’ freshman year.

Manhattan Tech increases north central Kansas higher education access

Manhattan Tech, K-State’s partner in the Manhattan community, has a strong history of expanding educational access and a clear focus on workforce development and applied learning in high-demand fields.In 2024, Manhattan Tech&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://manhattantech.edu/news/2024/07/23/ribbon-cutting-for-advanced-technology-center">opened a 47,000-square-foot Advanced Technology Center</a>, doubling capacity in key programs such as Industrial Maintenance, Electrical, Plumbing, and Construction Technologies — all areas that align with K-State's strengths in in engineering, technology and applied sciences.

The college's recognition earlier this year&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://manhattantech.edu/manhattan-tech-carnegie-classifications-2025">as an Opportunity College and University by the Carnegie Foundation</a>&nbsp;for both student access and post-graduation earnings underscores its commitment to serving learners from all backgrounds and connecting education to economic opportunity.Manhattan Tech's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://manhattantech.edu/manhattan-tech-expands-to-fort-riley-offering-courses-for-soldiers-veterans-and-the-public">expansion to Fort Riley</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://manhattantech.edu/manhattan-tech-is-awarded-668k-grant-for-rural-workforce">regional outreach funded through the Patterson Family Foundation</a>&nbsp;further demonstrate its dedication to making career and technical education accessible across north-central Kansas, especially in rural communities that can benefit most from local training and degree pathways.

Building on this commitment,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://manhattantech.edu/national-initiative-to-support-adult-learners">Manhattan Tech's recent partnership with the Lumina Foundation</a>, through the prestigious Rural Community College Adult Learner Engagement initiative, brings national attention and innovative resources to the region. Backed by this initiative, the college is launching dynamic, data-driven outreach to re-engage adults with some college but no degree, expanding flexible learning options and strengthening local workforce pipelines.This exciting collaboration positions Manhattan Tech as a leader in rural education transformation, ensuring more Kansans have access to life-changing credentials and career opportunities.

“At Manhattan Tech, we meet students where they are and provide the support they need to learn, grow and reach their full potential,” said James Genandt, Manhattan Tech president and chief executive officer. “The MHK Pathway program combines the strengths of two strong institutions of higher education to guide students in achieving ambitious goals. Through this collaboration, participants gain valuable skills for the careers of today and tomorrow, improving their quality of life while strengthening our region’s workforce, economy and communities.”

Salina Tech creates opportunities for central Kansans

Similarly, Salina Tech represents a forward-looking partner for K-State’s efforts to broaden educational opportunity across central Kansas.

Salina Tech has more than doubled enrollment over the past decade and continues to add new programs that respond directly to workforce needs, such as its&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://salinatech.edu/programs/industrial-maintenance-and-automation/">Industrial Maintenance and Automation Technology program</a>&nbsp;and newly approved&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://salinatech.edu/programs/associate-degree-nursing/">associate degree in nursing</a>.

With&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://carnegieclassifications.acenet.edu/institution/salina-area-technical-college/">recent recognition from the Carnegie Foundation</a>&nbsp;for offering access to hands-on, career-driven programs while supporting students from a wide array of backgrounds to careers that earn competitive wages, Salina Tech demonstrates how accessible, affordable and quality education creates upward mobility for Kansans.

Salina Tech's close relationships with local employers and investment in modern facilities,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://salinatech.edu/current-campaign/">such as its $1.8 million Industrial Maintenance Automation building</a>, demonstrate a shared commitment with K-State to preparing students for meaningful careers while strengthening regional industries and communities.

“This collaborative effort propels student access into student success and demonstrates real value that exists in higher education, which maximizes the return on student investment,” said Gregory Nichols, Salina Area Technical College president.

“Together, we’re building a more accessible and connected future for higher education — one that uses our collective strengths to expand opportunities, streamline pathways and prepare the next generation of innovators," said Alysia Starkey, CEO and dean of K-State Salina.

Pathways programs build on K-State's commitment to engage with every Kansas community

As K-State leads the nation as&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/next-gen/">a next-generation land-grant</a>, the university is doubling down on its&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/next-gen/plan/themes/integrate-engagement.html">commitment to engage</a>&nbsp;and work with institutions, communities and most importantly, people, all across the state.

The university has recently joined forces with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/news/newsreleases/2024-12/Garden-City-Community-College-partnership-brings-bachelors-degree-path-to-southwest-kansas.html">Garden City</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/news/articles/2025/10/dodge-city-collaboration-brings-bachelors-southwest-kansas.html">Dodge </a>City Community&nbsp;colleges to build bridges that leverage the colleges' local networks and accessibility and connect students with the breadth and depth of a four-year bachelor's degree offered by K-State.

These new partnerships, in addition to the new MHK and SLN pathway programs, represent growth upon an already strong foundation of partnerships with Kansas community colleges.

"Creating these new points of access to K-State is truly a mission-centered initiative," said Linton. "These types of programs built with our technical and community college partners help students stay embedded within Kansas communities while they work toward their goals — this is meeting students where they are, and it’s good for Kansas.”

KSU partners with Manhattan Tech & Salina Tech to expand higher education access for Kansas students

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 CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving While Suspended; No Proof Of Insurance

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke; Domestic Battery: rude physical contact

*No image available for&nbsp;Cooley, Braiden Allen*

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance; Poss of stolen property; Value $1,500 to $25,000

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Distribute opiates, opium, narcotics or stimulants; Unknown quantity; Use/poss drug paraphernalia/human body; Poss para w/intent to manuf contr subst; Poss of marijuana; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Crim damage to prop;w/o consent &lt;$1K; Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner; Outside warrant/NCIC hit

NAME:&nbsp;Noyes, Forrest Christopher Oscar

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGE: Failure to appear

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance; Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body; Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose misd warrant; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

NAME:&nbsp;Segura-Deluna, Jessica Patricia

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit; Domestic Battery: rude physical contact

NAME:&nbsp;Valenzuela Diaz, Jorge Luis

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity; Outside warrant/NCIC hit

Saline County Jail Bookings, October 18

My name is Amy Freelove and I’m running for USD 305 School Board this November.

I was born, raised, and publicly educated in the near western suburbs of Chicago.

About 35 years ago I began my college education at The University of Kansas. I graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Education with an emphasis in Athletic Training. While my husband, Rob, was finishing his education and training, we moved around Kansas until we settled in Salina 25 years ago.

We were lucky to raise our kids here and send them through USD 305.&nbsp; While we raised our kids, I was fortunate to be a stay-at-home parent who volunteered in their classrooms, went on field trips, served on site councils, and was a team parent and Scout Leader. I volunteered in the Heusner Library, long after my kids had moved on from elementary school. I love books and reading and love seeing kids get excited about reading, too.&nbsp; When Salina was redrawing its boundaries, I was asked to be on the committee. I learned a lot during that process, and am proud of the work we did. In 2012 I completed my Master Gardener training and have been an active member since then.

Even though I have worked outside of our home, raising our children to be successful, thoughtful and kind humans is definitely my biggest accomplishment.&nbsp; Our daughter, Mary, graduated from Columbia College in Chicago with her Bachelor of Fine Arts.&nbsp; She is an artist and Art Director at a publisher in Chicago.&nbsp; Our son, Lukas, is a recent K-State grad with a Masters in Landscape Architecture.&nbsp; He’s a Landscape Designer in Boston.&nbsp; And while I know I have invested in my children, I also believe Salina schools and teachers have as well. Our children wouldn’t be who they are today without all of us working together. All children deserve that support and investment.

I believe all children should have a public education available and accessible to them.&nbsp; We must invest in and support our children. Teachers are an integral part of a good education. We must invest in and support them as well.

A healthy public school system in Salina, where people know their children can learn, grow, and build a foundation for success, makes for a thriving Salina. A strong and vital Salina helps ensure our community can not only continue to entice new businesses, people, and teachers, but also help our young citizens want to return and stay.

Most importantly, I believe our leaders and decision-makers must be level-headed, good listeners who are able to listen without judgment, be flexible, and work towards solutions that work for everyone.&nbsp; Generally, I am not a person who is comfortable being in front. Much of my life I have been a supportive behind-the-scenes person, and I’m good at it. I’ve learned over the years that being a good support person requires all the qualities a good leader needs.&nbsp; Anyone who knows me well would say that I am a smart, thoughtful, kind, level-headed and capable person; driven by compassion and common sense.&nbsp; 

I believe those attributes would allow me to serve the USD 305 School Board well.

Meet USD 305 School Board Candidate: Amy Freelove

For the second straight year, Kansas Wesleyan will hold its "School Days" initiative." 

The program kicks off Saturday, November 8 and will see KWU provide two free tickets to designated games for students, educators, administrators and staff in particular school districts.

“Community is such an important part of our success at Kansas Wesleyan,” said Ken Oliver, executive vice president. “It’s our pleasure to continue to give back and, in the process, hopefully create some new Coyote fans!”

Saturday, November 8 marks Saline County Education Day as KWU football takes on McPherson. All associated with USD 305, homeschools in the county or Saline County private schools are eligible for a pair of free tickets to this critical divisional matchup.

The scene shifts to basketball on&nbsp;Saturday, November 15 for USD 305 Night, and Homeschool Night follows on Saturday,&nbsp;December 6, when KWU faces Friends.

Saline County Private Schools night is Saturday,&nbsp;December 13, and USDs 239 and 240 will be eligible for tickets at Ottawa County Schools Night on Saturday, January 10, 2026.

Southeast of Saline Night is on Saturday, January 17, 2026.&nbsp;Ell-Saline Night is on Wednesday, January 28, 2026&nbsp;and Dickinson County Schools Night&nbsp;is on Saturday, February 7 to&nbsp;wrap up the planned events.

Dickinson County’s recognized schools will include USDs 481, 487, 435, 473 and 393.

School Days promotions for basketball games are valid for one or both of the day’s contests.

Tickets are available at the gate only. The use of USD IDs, where applicable, is appreciated but not required. 

All giveaways are subject to availability. For additional information on the School Days program, please contact the KWU Athletic Department at (785) 833-4567.

For more information on Kansas Wesleyan University, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kwu.edu/news">www.kwu.edu/news</a>.

More information on KWU Athletics can be found at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kwucoyotes.com/">www.kwucoyotes.com</a>.

KWU to resume School Days Initiative November 8

LINDSBORG - A Maine and Florida resident, John Goff will present a guest lecture and slideshow titled "Growing Up Greenough" at the Sandzen Gallery (401 North First Street, Lindsborg, KS) on Sunday, October 26, at 2:00 pm.

The talk will cover the family story of Charles Pelham Greenough III (1908-1983), who became one of the chief organizers and benefactors of the Birger Sandzen Memorial Gallery in Lindsborg. 

It will trace Pelham’s descent from many prominent old English and East Coast Greenoughs, along with his time growing up in Boston, Massachusetts. It also focuses on his aunt, Ethel Greenough Holmes (1879-1964) of Boston and Kansas City, and her association with the mobile, talented, and artistic Swedish American Birger, Alfrida, and Margaret Sandzen. 

“Aunt Ethel,” as she became known among the family, was initially an art student of Birger Sandzen (1871-1954) before she introduced her nephew Pelham to Sandzen’s daughter, Margaret (1909-1993). 

The presentation considers the growing and diverse art interests in both the Sandzen and Greenough families, as well as how these exceptional individuals helped Lindsborg become a distinguished art center.

The presenter, John Goff, is a retired architect and historian. He is also the grandson of Barbara Greenough Bradley (1913-2002), Pelham Greenough’s first cousin.

The presentation is free and open to the public.

For further information, please call the Gallery at (785) 227-2220 or email sandzengallery@gmail.com.

Historical free presentation of Birger Sandzen Gallery's establishment set for late October

High School Sports LIVE STREAMS

This week, the Salina Family YMCA leadership team was honored to welcome Korleone Young, former NBA player and founder of the One and Done Foundation, for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation on leadership, community service and youth mentorship.

Young, who now dedicates his life to mentoring young people through his nonprofit organization, shared personal experiences and valuable lessons drawn from both his basketball career and his journey beyond the court. His foundation focuses on guiding young athletes not only in basketball but also in life skills and personal development, emphasizing that success goes far beyond the game.

Speaking to the leadership team, Young highlighted the importance of servant leadership, leading by example and putting others first, and the lasting impact mentorship can have on a child’s future.

“Being an athlete is a privilege,” Young said during his visit. “Giving back and teaching the youth is a rewarding experience that effects the community as a whole.”

His message resonated deeply with staff, reinforcing the YMCA’s mission to help guide the youth and being a positive beacon in the community. As the Y continues its work to strengthen community and support youth development, Young’s words will remain a meaningful source of inspiration.

For more information on Korleone Young’s work, visit: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/oneanddoneeliteskillstraining/">www.facebook.com/oneanddoneeliteskillstraining/</a>

Former NBA Player inspires Salina YMCA leadership team with powerful message on servant leadership

Over 30 high school students from Saline and Dickinson Counties, participated in this year's annual "Disability Mentoring Day."

On Wednesday, October 15 students with disabilities had the privilege to go on job tours around the Salina area. Those tours included sites such as,&nbsp;Martinelli’s, Crestwood, Schwan’s, City of Salina Fire Department, Salina Regional Health Center, Old Navy and the USD 305 Kitchen.

Throughout this event, the students had an opportunity to learn about different employers in the community and expectations for jobs in different industries.

This event was planned by members of the <a href="https://www.kansasyouthtransition.org/about/pilot-sites#:~:text=Salina%20(USD%20305),%2DETS)%2C%20and%20more!">Saline County Transition Council</a>.&nbsp;Disability Mentoring Day occurs nationwide in October, which is also during&nbsp;National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

Various organizations partnered together to make this event happen. Those organizations included, <a href="https://indconnectinc.com/">Independent Connection Inc.</a>, <a href="https://occk.com/">OCCK Inc.</a>, <a href="https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/RS/Pages/Employment-Services.aspx">Vocational Rehabilitation – Pre-ETS</a>, <a href="https://www.305ckcie.com/">USD 305/Central Kansas Cooperative in Education</a>, and other passionate community members as well.

"I enjoyed the experience, and I learned teamwork and communication skills," a commented student.

"I want to work for the fire department, and I am glad I learned how it all happens," a student said.

Youth Outreach Navigator for Independent Connection, Amanda Mong said this event helps students learn more about what job best suits them.

"I talked to alot of the students, and they are identifying jobs that they want to learn more about and what the next steps should be," she said.

Elyse Pfizenmaier from Independent Connection stated she saw all of the students were engaged.

"We went to the fire station with them and all of our students were really engaged and asking questions" she said. "It was just a good experience for them and the fire station were really active, engaging and super kind."

The Saline County Transition Council is dedicated to supporting youth and young adults with disabilities as they plan for life after high school. It is under the Kansas Youth Transition Network.

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasyouthtransition.org/">https://www.kansasyouthtransition.org/</a>

Local high school students with disabilities benefit from Disability Mentoring Day

Two Salina businesses were recognized with awards during the Kansas Department of Commerce's 2025 "To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards Ceremony."

On Thursday night at the Robert W. Plaster Center at Pittsburg State University, GeoProbe Systems was honored with the with the 2025 Governor's Exporter of the Year, and VP of Great Plains Manufacturing, James Hall was honored with the inaugural&nbsp;Randi Tveitaraas Jack International Business Development Award.

The Governor’s Exporter of the Year award has been given to a Kansas company for more than three decades. The award brings statewide recognition to companies for their export efforts and showcases companies as role models of exporting success in Kansas.&nbsp;

The 2025 Governor’s Exporter of the Year winner, GeoProbe Systems, was founded in 1987 by two engineers who manufactured and introduced the first direct push machines and tooling to the environmental industry — changing the way soil, groundwater, and soil gas samples are collected. Since those first methods went to the field, GeoProbe has invested heavily in engineering to continue developing new designs and innovative techniques for fieldwork, diversified across a wide range of drilling industries – garnering a global reputation as a drilling industry leader.&nbsp;

The ceremony had at least nearly 500 people in attendance.

Grey Snow Management Solutions won the 2025 Governor’s Award of Excellence.

“Grey Snow and GeoProbe have dynamic missions and visions that align with our commitment to moving Kansas forward and supporting customers and communities across the state,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “Companies like these advance our state’s exporting efforts, contribute significantly to their local economies, and are more than deserving of these awards.”&nbsp;

A record 431 businesses, organizations, and individuals were nominated in 11 different categories for this year’s&nbsp;To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards. 

Nominees were reviewed and scored for various criteria, including business expansion, employee recruitment and retention practices, training and educational programs, capital investment, and support for local community events. A total of 372 Merit Awards and 59 Regional Awards were presented at the event. Additionally, one nominee in each category was designated a Statewide Winner, making them finalists for the Governor’s Award of Excellence.&nbsp;

“Kansas businesses are the backbone of the record-setting success our state has experienced over the last six years,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “All the businesses recognized at&nbsp;To The Stars&nbsp;are worthy of celebration because they exemplify our famous work ethic and determination, further solidifying Kansas as the best place in the nation to do business.”&nbsp;

To kick off the awards ceremony, emcee Melissa Vincent recognized two Kansans who have been inducted into the Kansas Business Hall of Fame for their significant contributions to economic growth. This year’s contemporary honoree, Marci Penner, is a rural champion and author from Inman who is the executive director of the Kansas Sampler Foundation. The historical honoree, Emerson Carey, Sr., is an entrepreneur and philanthropist from Hutchinson known as a salt manufacturer and industrial leader.&nbsp;

The Kansas Department of Commerce also introduced two new award categories: the Small Business Champion – Corporate Partner Award that highlights corporations demonstrating exceptional commitment to small business — and the Mainstreet Momentum Award that honors a business continuously working to improve downtown areas and commercial districts through growth and engagement.

The 2025 Statewide Award winners are below:&nbsp;

Agribusiness&nbsp;– Liquid Art Winery and Estate, Manhattan

Apprenticeship Champions and Partners&nbsp;– American Implement, Garden City

Business Innovation&nbsp;– Shed Lifestyles, LLC, Kansas City

Healthcare/Nonprofit&nbsp;– Special Olympics Kansas, Inc.

Mission. Mainstreet Momentum&nbsp;– Grand Central Hotel and Grill, Cottonwood Falls

Manufacturing/Distribution&nbsp;– LeDuc Memorial Designs, Concordia

 Non-Traditional Talent Pools&nbsp;– AllMetal Recycling, LLC, Wichita

 Retail/Service&nbsp;– Grey Snow Management Solutions, Cloud

 Small Business Champion – Corporate Partner&nbsp;– Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center, Inc., Norton

 Under 30 Entrepreneur&nbsp;– Braiden Werth, Werth Eye Group, P.A., Hays

 Welcome Back&nbsp;– Davey and Kim Froman, Miners and Monroe, Pittsburg&nbsp;

Other Exporter of the Year finalists were SOR Controls Group of Lenexa and Harlan Global Manufacturing of Kansas City.&nbsp;

At the end of the awards ceremony, the agency introduced the new&nbsp;Randi Tveitaraas Jack International Business Development Award. It will recognize individuals who have made outstanding contributions to advancing Kansas in the global economy. 

The award was named in honor of Randi Tveitaraas Jack, who recently retired from the Kansas Department of Commerce after more than 37 years of outstanding service to the state. The agency recognized James “Jamie” Hall, Vice President of Great Plains Manufacturing in Salina, as the inaugural recipient.&nbsp;

A full list of the 2025&nbsp;To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards&nbsp;winners and photographs from the event can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.governor.ks.gov/?splash=https%3a%2f%2fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2f%3furl%3dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Fwww.kansascommerce.gov%25252Ftothestars%25252Fto-the-stars-kansas-business-awards-2025%25252F%252F1%252F01010199f355b85e-5cc601f3-037e-4cf6-9508-46fe3c4d84d4-000000%252F_2GaMr7DRbhz8pucKja_RNGqoaTWJn-0gLQgRnXGENc%253D427%26data%3d05%257C02%257Cgrace.hoge%2540ks.gov%257C94c898d46031421eee6108de0da73c7a%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C638963209077124447%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3dNGSiSzET8aLTRwaFbzeJBE8K8STJmggcT0BwShU450s%253D%26reserved%3d0&amp;____isexternal=true" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;

Two Salina businesses honored during state awards ceremony 

Governor Laura Kelly has announced a total of 14 appointments to the state's different boards, committees and advisory groups. 

<a href="https://www.cml-law.com/attorneys/peter-s-johnston/">Peter Johnston</a> from Salina has been appointed to serve on the Kansas Board of Regents

The following is a list of members representing the Kansas Board of Regents, Wichita State University Board of Trustees, Emergency Medical Services Board,&nbsp;Workers Compensation and Employment Services Board Nominating Committee,&nbsp;Kansas Advisory Group on Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention and the&nbsp;Board of Cosmetology.

Purpose:&nbsp;A nine-member body which governs six state universities, and supervises and coordinates 19 community colleges, five technical colleges, six technical schools, and a municipal university.

Wichita State University Board of Trustees

Purpose:&nbsp;To manage property, estate, and funds given, transferred, and pledged to Wichita State University.

- Laurie Labarca, Wichita (reappointment)

Purpose:&nbsp;To regulate, enforce, allocate, and make decisions in compliance with the Emergency Medical Act for all emergency medical services and providers.

Workers&nbsp;Compensation and Employment Services Board Nominating Committee

Purpose:&nbsp;To provide the workers compensation and employment security board of review appointing authorities with nominees for appointments to the positions of workers compensation administrative law judges, workers compensation appeals board members, and the employment security board of review.

- Elizabeth Maisberger-Clark, Carbondale (reappointment)

Kansas Advisory Group on Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention

Purpose:&nbsp;To review juvenile justice policy, advise policymakers on issues affecting the juvenile justice system, and keep Kansas in compliance with the federal JJDPA act.

Purpose:&nbsp;To regulate the profession of cosmetology and its educational institutions.

Peter Johnston appointed by Gov. Kelly to serve on Kansas Board of Regents

Kansas Wesleyan is finalizing preparations for its annual Homecoming Weekend festivities, an event that kicks off Thursday, October 23, and will include locations throughout the Salina area.

“We can’t wait to welcome our alumni and the community to what’s sure to be a great weekend,” said Ken Oliver, executive vice president. “There’s something for everyone, and we’re pleased to involve the community even more by opening the weekend in downtown Salina.”

The weekend gets underway with a special pep rally Thursday at Campbell Plaza in downtown Salina, beginning at 5 p.m. Campbell Plaza is on Santa Fe Avenue, next to Jose Pepper’s, and the event will include multiple head coaches speaking. The Howl pep band and KWU cheerleaders will be on hand to help generate excitement for the weekend’s proceedings.

Events on campus begin Thursday night with “Dracula” by Steven Dietz (based on Bram Stoker’s novel), the first of several productions of KWU’s annual fall play. The on-campus schedule starts in full Friday. The annual Veterans Recognition Ceremony, featuring Kevin Newell ’98 as the speaker, will be held at 11 a.m. and all pre-registered veterans and a guest will receive a free lunch after the ceremony.

That night, alumni from the classes of 1975 (and prior) and 2000 will be honored at the Purple W, Golden W and Beyond Social, an annual KWU gathering that recognizes individuals celebrating their 25th&nbsp;and 50th&nbsp;anniversaries of graduation. Recent years have expanded to honor those exceeding the 50-year plateau, as well. The social starts at 5 p.m. in Bieber Hall, the exterior entrance lobby to Sams Chapel.

One of the highlights of Homecoming each year is the Alumni Awards and Jerry Jones Athletic Hall of Fame induction breakfast. This year, that takes place Saturday morning. Oct. 25, in Muir Gym. Proceedings get underway at 8 a.m. and tickets are still available.

The 1999 men’s soccer team, the 2011 women’s volleyball program, Melissa (Blair) Schwieger ’15 (women’s volleyball), Jolene Mick ’09 (women’s track and field/cross country), Paul Buhl ’81 (men’s track and field/cross country), Dave Dallas (football) and Drew Dallas ’09 (post-graduate accomplishments) are this year’s Hall of Fame Inductees. Tom Wilbur (Alumni by Choice), Dr. David Laha ’79 (Alumni Service Award), Powers G. Porter 1912 (Alumni Achievement Award) and Abby Wray ’23 (Young Alumni Award), this year’s alumni award recipients, will be honored at the same event.

Shortly thereafter, KWU’s first Homecoming Parade in many years will begin in the Nursing Education Center parking area and loop past University United Methodist Church, proceeding to Ellsworth Avenue. The public is invited to observe, beginning at 10 a.m.

KWU Music will induct the second class into its Hall of Fame, as part of concert proceedings that start at 1 p.m. Judy Weber, Eric Stein, Loren Banninger ’75 and Harry Huber will be honored. Finally, KWU football will kick off a critical KCAC matchup with Sterling at 5 p.m.

To view the entire Homecoming schedule, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kwu.edu/homecoming2025">www.kwu.edu/homecoming2025</a>.

KWU preparing for Homecoming Oct. 23

<a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Salina&amp;state=KS&amp;site=ICT&amp;lat=38.8158&amp;lon=-97.6178">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

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>.

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 17 - October 19

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 15 - October 17

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 13 - October 15

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 10 - October 12

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 8 - October 10

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 6 - October 8

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 3 - October 5

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 1 - October 3

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 29 - October 1

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 26 - September 28

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —The victim in an aggravated battery that occurred on September 23rd has died from his injuries, and the suspect has been arrested and charged in his death, according to a statement from Kansas City, Kansas Police.

At approximately 10:30p.m. Sept. 23, police&nbsp; were dispatched to the 2300 block of Ridge Avenue regarding a physical altercation between two ment. When officers arrived on scene, they discovered 78-year-old Leroy Alexander lying outside his residence, unconscious and with apparent head trauma. He was transported to an area hospital where he died from his injuries on September 30. 

Police arrested Perry Allen Tilghman, Jr., 31, Kansas City, Kansas,&nbsp; and he has been charged with second- degree murder in Alexander’s death. He is currently being held in the Wyandotte County Jail on a $150,000 bond.

Police: 74-year-old Kan. man died a week after violent altercation

DEKALB COUNTY, Mo. —Three juveniles were injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Saturday in DeKalb County, Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Freightliner Straight Truck driven by a 42-year-old Wichita man was southbound on MO 33 one mile north of Osborn. The driver attempted to travel through the intersection at U.S. 36 and continue southbound on Route M. The driver failed to yield to an eastbound 2018 School bus driven by a 64-year-old Burlington Junction woman.

The bus struck the rear passenger side of the truck. Three girls on the bus were transported for treatment of minor injuries.

A private vehicle transported a 15-year-old Maryville girl to Mosaic in St. Joseph and a 16-year-old Maryville girl to Cameron Regional Medical Center. DeKalb-Clinton Ambulance transported a 17-year-old Maryville girl to Mosaic in St. Joseph. The drivers were both properly restrained and not injured according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

3 girls injured after truck driven by Kan. man strikes a school bus

WASHINGTON (AP) — The two survivors of an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-drug-smuggling-pentagon-strike-12820c173da3de80c1a7a559c252c743">American military strike</a>&nbsp;on a suspected drug-carrying vessel in the Caribbean will be sent to Ecuador and Colombia, their home countries, President Donald Trump said Saturday.

The military rescued the pair after striking a submersible vessel Thursday, in what was at least the sixth such attack since early September.

“It was my great honor to destroy a very large DRUG-CARRYING SUBMARINE that was navigating towards the United States on a well known narcotrafficking transit route,” Trump said in a social media post. “U.S. Intelligence confirmed this vessel was loaded up with mostly Fentanyl, and other illegal narcotics.”

After Trump’s announcement, the Pentagon posted on X a brief black-and-white video of the strike. In the clip, a vessel can be seen moving through the waves, its front portion submerged inches below the water’s surface. Then, several explosions are seen, with at least one over the back of the vessel.

The Republican president said two people onboard were killed — one more than was previously reported — and the two who survived are being sent to their home countries “for detention and prosecution.”

However, the press office for Ecuador’s government said Saturday it was not aware of the plans for repatriation.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the presidential press office in Colombia did not immediately return messages seeking comment.

With Trump’s statement on his Truth Social platform of the death toll, that would mean U.S. military action against vessels in the region have killed at least 29 people.

The president has justified the strikes by asserting that the United States is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-drugs-venezuela-911-hegseth-3db3aafed492556bb9ca7de855c4849e">engaged in an “armed conflict”</a>&nbsp;with drug cartels. He is relying on the same legal authority used by the George W. Bush administration when it declared a war on terrorism after the Sept. 11 attacks, and that includes the ability to capture and detain combatants and to use lethal force to take out their leadership. Trump is also treating the suspected traffickers as if they were enemy soldiers in a traditional war.

The repatriation would avoid questions for the Trump administration about what the legal status of the two would have been in the U.S. justice system. It may also sidestep some of the legal issues that arose out of the detention of enemy combatants in the global war on terrorism as well as challenges to the constitutionality of the current operation.

To some legal scholars, Trump's use of such military force against suspect drug cartels, along with his authorization of covert action inside Venezuela, possibly to oust President Nicolás Maduro, stretches the bounds of international law.

On Friday, Trump seemed to confirm reports that Maduro has offered a stake in Venezuela’s oil and other mineral wealth in recent months to try to stave off mounting pressure from the United States. Venezuelan government officials have also floated a plan in which Maduro would eventually leave office, according to a former Trump administration official. That plan was also rejected by the White House, The Associated Press reported.

The strikes in the Caribbean have caused unease among members of Congress from both parties and complaints about receiving insufficient information on how the attacks are being conducted. But most Republican senators backed the administration last week on a measure that would have required Trump's team to get approval from Congress before more strikes.

Meanwhile, another resolution to be considered would prevent Trump from outright attacking Venezuela without congressional authorization.

Megerian reported from West Palm Beach, Florida.

Trump releases video of US drone strike on ‘drug-carrying submarine’

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/olga-r-rodriguez">OLGA R. RODRIGUEZ</a>

San Francisco (AP) — A Northern California aquarium has raised more than $2 million for sea otter conservation in just two days. All it took was Taylor Swift wearing a vintage T-shirt.

Swift wore a vintage Monterey Bay Aquarium otter conservation T-shirt in a release party movie for her new&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-showgirl-eras-tour-disney-3a64afd94014fd6aa22436f5132acccc">“The Life of a Showgirl” album</a>, sending her ardent fans on a quest to buy the shirt last produced in the 1990s. After the aquarium was flooded with calls about buying the T-shirt showing two otters floating on their back, it decided to re-release the garment Thursday as part of a special campaign to raise $1.3 million, a nod to Swift’s favorite number, said Liz MacDonald, the aquarium’s director of content strategy.