The Sunflower Summer Program has officially been extended until August 8th.

According to Kansas Tourism, the Sunflower Summer program which&nbsp;complimentary admission to more than 230 attractions across the state, is extending its program until Friday, August 8th.&nbsp;

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;

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>.

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>.

Sunflower Summer program officially extended until August 8

<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

The US National Weather Service has announced the heat indices around the central Kansas region for Monday.

According to the US National Weather Service, heat index values during the afternoon and early evening for Monday and Tuesday, July 29th are expected to be in the 102 to 109 degree range. Salina is expected to reach a heat index of 106 for Monday, and 105 for Tuesday.

The US National Weather Service advises everyone to be sure to stay hydrated and limit outdoor activity during the afternoon hours.

Heat indices expected to reach over 100 in Central Kansas

3-day weather forecast Salina

Salina will be under a 'Flood Watch' that takes into effect Thursday evening and into Friday, July 25.

According to the US National Weather Service, on Thursday Salina has been a issued a 'Flood Watch' for this evening. Reportedly, heavy rainfall is expected to develop into the afternoon and becoming more widespread overnight, with rainfall rates of 2 to 4 inches per hour possible.

Be aware on the roads as 'Flash Flooding' is likely, according to the US National Weather Service.&nbsp;The highest flooding risk period will occur from late this afternoon through Friday morning.&nbsp;If water begins rising near your location,&nbsp;immediately seek higher ground. 

Saline County Emergency Management states that the main concerns are low water crossings and low-lying areas, where it's difficult to see the shoulder of the road. Drivers should exercise extreme caution, especially in areas known to flood frequently.

Saline County Emergency Management has listed the flood stages for certain areas:

Mulberry Creek near Salina:&nbsp;Forecasted to crest above flood stage at 24.75 feet overnight. Exercise extreme caution around waterways and low-lying areas.

Smoky Hill River near Mentor:&nbsp;Expected crest at 17.87 feet, nearing moderate flood levels. Avoid areas prone to flooding.

Smoky Hill River near New Cambria:&nbsp;Projected crest at 23.59 feet tonight, causing minor flooding. Monitor conditions and be prepared to move to higher ground.

Everyone is encouraged to stay alert and monitor weather conditions closely.

'Flood Watch' issued in Salina for Thursday evening, heavy rainfall expected in the afternoon

Another round of storms are anticipated to occur on Wednesday evening, after the flooding from Monday evening.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), a round of storms are anticipated for Wednesday evening with the best chances occurring across central Kansas. Reportedly, the strongest storms may produce wind gusts near 60 mph and heavy rainfall.

Salina is depicted to have a 30-60% chance of storms for Wednesday night.

Another round of storms anticipated for Wednesday evening across Central Kansas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For the latest forecast updates, visit the National Weather Service Wichita office at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">https://www.weather.gov/ict/</a>. To check forecasts frequently, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">weather.gov</a>.&nbsp;

Extreme heat warning issued in Central Kansas until Wednesday evening

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.

UPDATE: Storms moving towards Central Kansas late Thursday evening

Salina Police are searching for a known suspect who allegedly stole several items from a Mexican restaurant.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Wednesday, July 30th at around 11:00 am, employees of La Casita (1601 W. Crawford) reported of an alleged burglary that occured during the overnight hours. Employees reported about 'finding a storage shed behind the restaurant that had a lock forced open.'

It was reported that a suspect had stolen a computer screen, two old cell phones, documents, a martini shaker, several storage containers and paperwork.&nbsp;

SPD stated a possible suspect has been identified.&nbsp;

Estimated loss is believed to be over $400.

Police searching for suspect who allegedly stole several items from a Mexican restaurant

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

Salina Post obituary policy (subject to change)

Salina Post understands the importance of honoring the deceased and welcomes all submissions of obituaries with a full summary of their life, survivors, services, website of the funeral home and a photo.

Salina Post accepts all obituaries&nbsp;free of charge&nbsp;and you can email all obituaries:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@salinapost.com">admin@salinapost.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com">nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;and will be posted on the website within 24 business hours.

If you have an issue outside of business hours, if your obituary has not been published within 24 business hours, or if have any questions, please email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@salinapost.com">admin@salinapost.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com">nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com</a>

Recent obituaries and service times

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;Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; Fail to yield at stop or yield sign

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Theft of prop./services; Felony; Crim. damage to prop.;w/o consent &lt;$1K; Theft of prop./serv.;&lt;$1500 2 or more conv. in 5yr

Saline County Jail Bookings, July 31

By&nbsp;ZANE IRWIN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/politics-elections-and-government/2025-07-29/kansas-snap-funding-harvesters-food-banks">Kansas News Service</a>

State lawmakers must soon decide whether to cover the extra costs to provide food assistance. If they don’t, food banks and pantries alone can’t make up the difference.

On Steve Vossler’s 56th volunteer shift of the year at the Harvesters food bank distribution center in Lawrence, Kansas, he packed corn and cucumbers.

“I like the assembly line aspect of it,” he chuckled.

He was one of a dozen or so volunteers on a July morning cheerfully chatting and packing produce into red mesh bags, ready to stock the shelves at a local food pantry.

Aside from volunteer work, Vossler said, he reads the news. He knew that Congress just approved&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2025/07/03/nx-s1-5454841/house-republicans-trump-tax-bill-medicaid" target="_blank">historic changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program</a>, which could cause many more low-income families to rely on food banks like Harvesters.

“I don't like it and I'm sure there will be some changes,” Vossler said. “But who knows what they’ll be.”

In a major policy shift for SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, individual states will have to shoulder some of the costs to help feed low-income families.

Administrative costs will jump for every state. New work eligibility requirements will shut some recipients out, while creating more work for state agencies that run the program. And states will face steep penalties if they don’t run SNAP to a certain degree of precision.

Supporters of those measures don’t see them as “cuts,” so much as policies that force states to run SNAP more responsibly. Critics, like the progressive Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, say the changes could cause millions of low-income people to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbpp.org/research/food-assistance/senate-republican-leaders-proposal-risks-deep-cuts-to-food-assistance-some#states-snap-error-rates-vary-cbpp-anchor" target="_blank">lose some or all of their food assistance.</a>

Either way, individual states must figure out how to fill significant budget holes when the policies take effect in 2028. Those decisions will affect how many of&nbsp;<a href="https://fns-prod.azureedge.us/sites/default/files/resource-files/snap-state-factsheet-ks.pdf" target="_blank">Kansas’ 180,000 SNAP recipients</a>&nbsp;are able to rely on federal food assistance to get by.

Faced with steep cost-sharing expectations, some states are feeling the same kind of financial panic as families who may see their food benefits dwindle.

SNAP costs for the state of Kansas will rise against the backdrop of an uncertain fiscal future. While the state&nbsp;<a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/KSOG/2025/06/02/file_attachments/3279686/11_May_Revenue_FY2025_06-02-2025_Final.pdf" target="_blank">recently took in far more tax revenues</a>&nbsp;than expected, it is still slated to spend more money each year than it raises — leaving an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbpp.org/research/state-budget-and-tax/roundup-state-budgets-increasingly-strained-as-house-senate#kansas-cbpp-anchor" target="_blank">estimated $731 million shortfall by 2029</a>.

Kansas Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly said changes to SNAP in President Trump’s recent tax and spending package — known as the One Big Beautiful Bill — could mean more than $50 million in extra costs.

Part of that comes from the boring stuff: administrative expenses. It costs money to hire SNAP case workers, train them and invest in technology to make sure the program is running as it should.

Now, states will pay 75% of those costs rather than half — raising Kansas’ obligation by $15 million.

The bill also expands the range of people who must work or attend training programs for at least 80 hours per month to receive benefits.

Before, certain able-bodied adults without dependents, or ABAWDs, were exempt. Now, people in that category who are aged 55 to 64, parents with children aged 14 or older, veterans, former foster children and people experiencing homelessness must prove they meet new requirements — or lose access to food assistance.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees SNAP,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fns.usda.gov/research/snap/characteristics-fy23" target="_blank">over two-thirds of recipients are children, elderly or disabled.</a>

Some analyses suggest stricter work requirements do not lead to increased work or earnings. Rather, such restrictions often keep eligible individuals from starting or remaining on food assistance,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/20250407_THP_SNAPWorkRequirements_Paper.pdf" target="_blank">according to the center-left Brookings Institute</a>.

Work requirements do, however, create more work for state agencies. Kelly estimates Kansas will have to hire and train 40 new employees to keep up with new reporting requirements.

Of all the changes to SNAP, the most difficult to plan for involves payment error rates.

States sometimes overpay or underpay SNAP recipients. That’s usually due to incorrect applications or administrative mistakes.

Payment error rates surged throughout the country during the COVID-19 pandemic, topping 12% in Kansas and reaching as high as 60% in Alaska.

The problem has since eased. The 2024 error rate in Kansas dropped under 10%,&nbsp;<a href="https://fns-prod.azureedge.us/sites/default/files/resource-files/snap-fy24QC-PER.pdf" target="_blank">below the national average</a>. But many state and federal officials remain dissatisfied, and Congress used its latest budget bill to penalize payment inaccuracies.

Now, states with error rates above 6% must pay anywhere from 5% to 15% of the cost of SNAP benefits themselves, on top of regular administrative expenses.

If Kansas keeps its current error rate when the penalty takes effect in 2028, it will need to pay an extra $41 million per year to operate SNAP at the same level. That would bring the total increased cost to $56 million — a total that could vary widely based on the error rate.

“It is part of the state having skin in the game,” said Republican Ty Masterson, president of the Kansas Senate.

He said the panic over added SNAP costs for states is overwrought, and that the Kansas Legislature can easily account for added costs — so long as the state gets its payment error rate down.

Kelly said Kansas has until October 2026 to reduce errors and avoid penalties.

“We are all hands on deck out there right now,” she said. “Hiring, training our folks, working on our technology systems, our computer systems, programming, to bring that down.

“Because if we don't, it'll just cost us so much more,” she said.

Stephen Davis, who is president and CEO of the food bank Harvesters, said his family relied on food assistance when he was young.

“We struggled the way that many other families struggle on a daily basis,” he said. “So I know firsthand what it means to be food insecure.”

Harvesters&nbsp;<a href="https://www.harvesters.org/learn-about-hunger/hunger-in-our-region" target="_blank">defines food insecurity</a>&nbsp;as “a lack of consistent access to enough food for every person in a household to live an active, healthy life.”

In the 17 counties that Harvesters serves in Kansas, Davis said 375,000 people, or 1 in 7 individuals, are food insecure.

Davis is concerned cuts to SNAP will make the state’s hunger problem more severe. Even if Kansas finds the funds to continue operating as before, he worries that work requirements will strip people of their benefits.

There’s only so much his organization can do to help. For every meal Harvesters provides, Davis said, SNAP provides nine.

At the same time, the Trump administration has scaled back federal assistance for food banks, in one recent instance&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-03-28/harvesters-food-bank-deliveries-trump-administration-missouri-kansas" target="_blank">canceling dozens of truckloads of expected food shipments</a>&nbsp;for Harvesters.

Davis said all of those policies combined will result in more people going hungry.

“Those families that lose their SNAP benefits ... will likely try to turn to the charitable food system,” he said. “And we already don't have the capacity to meet the current need.”

Kansas could lose millions after Congress cut SNAP funds. Thousands may go hungry

You can also call:&nbsp;(785) 656-9856

Salina Police accuse a woman of assault charges after an incident at a Dollar General parking lot, that involved a man and a child.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Tuesday, July 29th they received multiple calls regarding a disturbance between two people at the parking lot of Dollar General (2000 S. 9th). Allegedly a 39-year old man who also called SPD, stated that he was the victim in the disturbance involving a 29-year old woman and acquaintance identified as&nbsp;Courtney Vaughns.

Reportedly, the man and Vaughns were inside the store with a 5-year old child (relative of the man), when an argument occurred between the man and Vaughns. Vaughns then exited the store as the man followed her, but the man stated that Vaughns 'began swinging at him and eventually struck him.'

The man then 'took car keys from Vaughns' and placed the child inside the vehicle, as Vaughs 'continued to physically strike him.' When the man got inside the vehicle with the child, it was reported that Vaughns 'sprayed pepper spray at the man,' which got on the child as well. The man however, was able to leave the area with the child.

Later in the day, officers located Vaughns in the 1800 block of S. 9th and took her into custody. Vaughns was booked into the Saline County Jail and is facing the following requested charges:

Domestic Battery (2 counts), Battery (2 counts), Endangering a Child and Interference with Law Enforcement.

Woman accused of assault charges after an incident at Dollar General

NAME:&nbsp;Berndt, Kristi Kathleen

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit; Failure to appear (2 requested charges)

NAME:&nbsp;Cunningham, Nathan Michael

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit; Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

*No image available for&nbsp;Nelson, Allen Gregory*

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Interf. w/LEO; obstr./resist/oppose misd. warrant; Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

NAME:&nbsp;Osorio-Romero, Kelvin Jose

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit; Theft of prop,/services;Value $1,500 to $25,000

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

NAME:&nbsp;Vaughns, Courtney Lashay

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Battery; Knowing/recklessly causing bodily harm; Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm; Endangering a child; Interf. w/LEO; obstr./resist/oppose misd. warrant

Saline County Jail Bookings, July 30

An 'end of summer estate sale' by a Salina estate salesman, invites the community to make some quick cash and clean out homes, garages or sheds.

Owner of All American Estate Sales + Darren Irwin, wants the community of Salina to know about an 'end of summer estate sale' that is a first come, first serve basis with reserved slots. Irwin stated that items can be sold any price if it is an 'good condition.' Large items including functioning appliances and furniture will be accepted (if it's in good condition). Smaller items must have a resale value of $5 or more.

This estate sale will run from Thursday, August 28th - Saturday, August 30th at 1124 W. Crawford near Broadway&nbsp;(former NAPA Auto Parts store next to Dollar Tree across from Dillons Sunset).

According to Irwin, anyone wishing to participate can do so by calling (785) 577-3479 or by email: allamericansales25@gmail.com to inquire or to reserve one or more slots (slots are limited).

To reserve a spot, a $30 good-faith deposit is required to secure the particpant's estate sale slot. Sellers/participants will receive 55% of total gross sale proceeds of all items, at the actual price sold. All American will retain 45% for organizing, promoting and producing the 'end of summer estate sale' for the seller/participant.

Those who are participating can expect a staff member from&nbsp;All American Estate Sales + to organize, price and display all items. The seller's items will be marked with a unique price tag assigned to them, to track all items that sell. Those who have details to the value of any items can be given to a staff member as well and there is no need to pre-tag individual items - a name/phone number is only required.

People participating must drop off their items by Wednesday, August 13 - Saturday, August 16 from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm each day at&nbsp;1124 W. Crawford.

Irwin first started&nbsp;All American Estate Sales + in February and has described of having much success since then.

"I have been in sales all my life and I find and learn something new every estate sale," said Irwin.&nbsp;

Irwin stated he is always open and willing to negotiate with sellers. He commented he is all about keeping the estate sale process 'simple, easy and relaxed.'&nbsp;Any leftover items that are not sold is then donated to local nonprofits/charities.&nbsp;

Irwin will be speaking about the 'end of summer estate sale' live on-air during the Saturday Morning Show with Dave Foor on August 2nd at 10:00 am. Tune in on&nbsp;910 AM/107.5 FM KINA Salina.

For more information, you can visit the All American Estate Sales + Facebook page by clicking <a href="https://www.facebook.com/p/All-American-Sales-LLC-61573694814002/">here</a>.

You can also contact Irwin at (785) 577-3479 or email:&nbsp;allamericansales25@gmail.com

Estate sales company holding first come, first serve estate sale end of August

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR STEVE SPAGNUOLO

Q: On Ashton Gillotte’s progress

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“Oh great, Ashton (Gillotte) has been great. I think we’ve got him in one spot now because we want him to just learn the defense as a defensive end, but I’m hoping at some point we can move him around a little bit – I don’t know if we will get to that this year or that’ll be down the road. But he’s one of those guys that I call a natural knee bender and he’s a big guy, but I think he has got a lot of power from the hips down and I think he’s a natural knee bender and that usually means you’re a pretty good football player. Just got to get the mental part going for all these young guys.”

Q: On the combination of heat and pads and how it affected the defense.

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“Yeah when I was looking at each guy – I’m always looking to see if they are in shape. The guys that have it the toughest in a practice like that are really the linebackers and the defensive backs. I mean, you guys watch the practice. I mean offensively a receiver might run a long ball and he’s off to the side and somebody else comes in, that doesn’t happen with us (the defense), so we are consistently in and out of the huddle. I thought for the most part they held up pretty good. What will be really interesting to me, you know, we had the three hard days, we had today was 10-10-10 – we get the day off. The tough day to come back is the next one, you know after you’ve had the day off so I’m looking for them – if we can ramp it up on that day, I’ll be pretty happy.”

Q: On Kristian Fulton’s injury and how it impacts his plan.

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“That just means other guys get more reps. We’re going to have to find out what we have in Kristian Fulton because he has missed a lot of time. It’s not like you step right in here in a multiple system like we have and know what you are doing, so it may take a little while to get him ramped up but we’re anxious to get him back and get more competition at that spot.”

Q: On finding undrafted linebackers and developing them (Cooper McDonald and Brandon George).

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“Yeah, both those guys (Cooper McDonald and Brandon George) – I don’t know how early you guys get out to practice, but if you are early to practice or early to a walkthrough you are going to see those three young linebackers always out there working on something, mentally, and that’s because that position in this defense takes a lot of volume and you got to be really smart from the chin and the hairline and those two guys in particular have done a really good job. Coop (Cooper McDonald) was a really good find. If you remember, we got him in the rookie minicamp as a three-day tryout guy, and I thought in the one on ones against the running backs he did a nice job yesterday.”

Q: On being a leader on the team and the responsibility that holds.&nbsp;

SMITH-SCHUSTER:&nbsp;“I mean, it’s a huge responsibility. You know, I take it pretty seriously. You know, we’ve got a bunch of young guys in the room, different ages; and you know, for me it’s a big responsibility for me. I take full control. I think I lead by, you know, not just by my words, but by my actions. And, you know, like I said there’s a lot of guys, a lot of experience, different ages, and everyone’s coachable, so, you know, I’m glad to take (on) that responsibility.”

Q: What was the biggest thing you learned from the older guys on the team when you were young?

SMITH-SCHUSTER:&nbsp;“Honestly, I think the biggest thing is like, you’re learning how to take care of your body, learning how to, study your playbook. For me, I kind of took that when I first started, into the league, because it’s a lot different (from college). Colleges, the hashes are much bigger, the alignments (are) a lot different. In the NFL it’s all about, your alignment, your assignment, and being able to go every single day. And I think that’s huge, right? And I think it has kind of paid off for me as far as, you know, being able to still play this game.”

Q: What are your impressions of Jalen Royals?

SMITH-SCHUSTER:&nbsp;“Man, Jalen Royals, man, he’s a rookie who is very strong, quiet dude but works really hard. I don’t know if you guys know, but he, when he’s out there, he’s aura farming and I think that’s something that you guys don’t get to see a lot. He’s a guy that’s going to show up every day and just work. You know? He doesn’t say a whole lot. He’s very coachable. He’s a sponge. He’s a great dude to be around in that room.”

Q: What do intense practices in the heat like yesterday’s do for you later in the season?

CONNER:&nbsp;“It does a lot for you. When it gets tough, you (can) always think back to those times when you had to push through (when it’s) hot outside. When it’s the fourth quarter, you can go back to that mindset of just having to push through when it’s hot, you’re tired, you got a lot of plays and just keep going.”

Q: What are the challenges of playing multiple positions?

CONNER:&nbsp;“I mean it’s something that I enjoy doing, (it’s) something I’ve been doing for a while now. So, I don’t see too many challenges with it, personally – but it’s definitely something I’ve been trying to continue to get better at."

Q: What did you work on this offseason?

CONNER:&nbsp;“Every year is always really the same for me. Get stronger, work on your speed. I did a lot of footwork, of course. (I did) a lot of DB work.”

Q: What stands out about Omarr Norman-Lott and Ashton Gillotte?

OMENIHU:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think starting off with Omarr (Norman-Lott), Omarr has great use of hands, very explosive, I noticed early on that he is able to grab wrist, something that it took me about three (or) four years to do that. Ashton (Gillotte) is just a guy that is going to go hard. You know exactly what you’re going to get from him. He is a guy that just wants to learn, and he is a guy that has a lot of power, so that is something he can use to his advantage as he continues to fill out his game in the league.”

Q: What have you learned about Josh Simmons so far?

OMENIHU:&nbsp;“(Josh Simmons is) a very good athlete. He knows his strengths, and he plays to them. I think he has a bright future, you know what I’m sayin? He is a guy who is a great athlete, and you can see why he is the first round pick.”

Q: You haven’t been able to play Week 1 with the Chiefs due to injury. How much are you looking forward to playing in an opening game?

Chiefs Quotes: 7-30-25

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Former conference foes Kansas State and Missouri will play a home-and-home exhibition series each of the next two seasons beginning with a matchup on Friday, Oct. 24 at Mizzou Arena to open the 2025-26 season.

The exhibition will be broadcast nationally at 9 p.m., CT with ticket information to be released at a later date. The Wildcats will host the Tigers for an exhibition during the 2026-27 season.

The two schools have played 237 times in the regular season since 1907 with K-State holding a narrow 121-116 series edge through transitions from the Missouri Valley, Big Six, Big Seven, Big Eight and Big 12 Conferences.

The schools have not met on the hardwood since an 82-67 win by K-State at the 2018 Paradise Jam.

Missouri won 22 games a season ago, tying for sixth in the SEC with a 10-8 mark, before losing to Drake in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.

The complete 2025-26 non-conference schedule has now been released and can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/schedule" target="_blank">here</a>.

Season tickets went on sale June 10 with&nbsp;a variety of ticket options. Fans can purchase tickets by calling toll free at (800) 221.CATS (2287) and/or online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>.

K-State MBB to Begin Exhibition Series with Missouri in 2025-26

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez drove in MJ Melendez with a single leading off the 10th inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Atlanta Braves 1-0 on Wednesday while matching a major league record by using nine total pitchers in the shutout.

Sam Long (1-2) was the last of the relievers for Kansas City. He had runners on the corners with nobody out in the 10th before striking out Sean Murphy and Eli White and getting Luke Williams to line out to left field.

Kansas City put Melendez on second base as a pinch runner in the bottom half, and Perez rapped the second pitch from Daysbel Hernandez (4-2) into the gap in right field to give the Royals the win.

The only other club to use nine pitchers in a shutout was Cleveland, which also did it in a 10-inning game in 2016.

Joey Wentz, claimed off waivers by the Braves earlier this month, dazzled while pitching a mere 25 minutes away from Shawnee Mission East High School, where he put together one of the best prep pitching careers in Kansas history.

The former first-round draft pick has largely failed to live up to expectations, and he carried a 5.76 ERA into his fourth start for Atlanta. But Wentz allowed just one hit and three walks over 6 2/3 innings, striking out seven.

With their rotation ailing, the Royals countered with a contingent of relief pitchers.

Angel Zerpa started on no rest and pitched into the second, and Jonathan Bowlan was their only reliever who retired more than three batters — he went two innings. John Schreiber struck out the side in the fourth, and Hunter Harvey escaped a two-on, no-out jam in the sixth by recording three consecutive outs.

Long's escape in the 10th set up Perez's winning hit in the bottom half.

The low-scoring affair came after the Braves won the series-opener 10-7 and the Royals won 9-6 on Tuesday night.

The Braves have not announced their starter for Thursday in Cincinnati, though newly acquired RHP Carlos Carrasco is likely to get the ball. The Royals have the day off before opening a series Friday night in Toronto.

⚾️ Perez's single in 10th lifts Royals over the Braves

WICHITA, Kan. (July 29, 2025)—Pierson Ohl becomes the 39th Wichita Wind Surge player to receive a promotion to Major League Baseball with the Minnesota Twins. The 25-year-old will be the starting pitcher for the Twins tonight at Target Field against the Boston Red Sox at 6:40 PM. Ohl spent the better part of his last three seasons with the Wind Surge and holds the franchise single-season records for lowest WHIP (0.95) and fewest walks (13), both coming in 2023. The California native is also the all-time franchise wins leader (15) while coming in the Top 5 in innings pitched, starts, and strikeouts.&nbsp;

A 14th-round pick by Minnesota in the 2021 MLB Draft out of Grand Canyon University, Ohl got called up to Wichita on June 5, 2023. Ohl would pitch the remainder of the season with the Wind Surge, going 7-3 with a 2.69 ERA over 16 appearances (14 starts). He was named a Texas League Post-Season All-Star for his efforts with Wichita. Ohl’s 2024 kept him with the Wind Surge, where he was one of two pitchers on the staff to throw over 100 innings, starting 15 of the 21 games he appeared in for Wichita. He threw four quality starts throughout the year, and on August 27, 2024, he recorded a four-inning save against the Springfield Cardinals.&nbsp;

Following a rehab assignment with the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels in April, Ohl returned for the Wind Surge as a bulk reliever in 2025. In 13 appearances (2 starts) with Wichita, Ohl went 4-1 with an ERA of 2.08 with 46 strikeouts over 39 innings pitched, ahead of his callup to Triple-A St. Paul on June 23. Across the three levels he’s appeared at this season, Ohl is a combined 5-2 with a 2.17 ERA and 79 punchouts in 66.1 IP. The righthander is renowned for his control, with just 57 total walks in his professional career since his Twins system debut in the fall of 2021.&nbsp;

Pierson Ohl Debuts for Twins, Becomes The 39th Wind Surge Player Promoted To MLB

Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid Quotes

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“All right, nice warm day today. Listen, our hearts go out to the people in New York, and for, especially the families of people that passed. I mean it’s tragic. And the people at the league office that had to go through all of that, so that’s a bad deal, man. Got to try to keep (the) peace somewhere here, right? Too much of this. Other than that, injuries, Jeff (Jeffrey) Bassa, ankle sprain. Jake Briningstool, hamstring, Deon Bush, hamstring. Kristian Fulton, we talked about (the) knee. Darius Rush, hamstring, Scott, Eric Scott, hamstring. Xavier (Worthy) banged his head. Hollywood (Brown), ankle. (Cooper) McDonald illness, Skyy Moore, hamstring. So, it’s hard work. You’re out here in the heat, and it’s tough, but the guys battle through. I appreciate the tempo they set, and all the energy that they gave. Time’s yours.”

Q: On Josh Simmons and Ashton Gillotte.

REID: “Yeah, you answered it right there. Competitive spirit, man. It’s hot and you get ornery.”

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