DICKINSON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 6p.m. Thursday in Dickinson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Jeep Gladiator driven by Robin Faye Hardman, 62, Bogue, and a 2011 Hyundai Sonata driven by Ernesto&nbsp;Saenz Flores, 19, Wichita, were southbound on U.S. 56 at 300 Avenue. The Hyundai struck the Jeep that had pulled into the turning lane and attempted to make a U-turn to go northbound.

EMS transported Flores to Salina Regional Health Center. Hardman and a passenger in the Jeep were not injured.&nbsp; All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kan.man hospitalized in Salina after crash during u-turn

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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

A Salina man was sent to the hospital after rolling over three times in his vehicle.

According to the Saline County Sheriff's Office on Wednesday, June 5th at 2:47 pm,&nbsp; a 65-year old man by the name of Johnny Schneider, was traveling southbound on the 4200 block of Burma Rd. in a 2012 Honda Civic. 

Schneider made an exit on Burma and suddenly lose control of his vehicle, causing him to enter into a ditch. The vehicle then rolled over three times before coming to rest on its tires.

Saline County authorities responded to the scene and Schneider was properly restrained.

He was then transported to Salina Regional Health Center by EMS with non-life threatening injuries.

There were no reports of alcohol being a factor.

Salina man sent to the hospital after rolling over three times in his vehicle

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;Use/poss. drug paraphernalian/human body; Poss. of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont. substance

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Stalking; After served a protection order prohibiting contact; 2nd or subs.; Viol. protection order; Abuse order

NAME:&nbsp;Harrington, Biagio Napoleon

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

NAME:&nbsp;Holmes,Wallace Macintosh

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Phouthavong, Mathew Ross

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Arson; Intentional to dwelling of another without consent; Crim damage to prop. (2 counts);w/o consent &lt;$1K Arson; Intentional to dwelling of another without consent; w/o consent $1K-$25K

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Battery on LEO; Physical contact with county or city officer on duty; Failure to appear (2 counts); Interf. w/LEO; obstr./resist/oppose misd. warrant;&nbsp;

NAME:&nbsp;Terry, Christopher Brian

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Aggravated indecent liberties w child; Offender =&gt;18 fondle child &lt;14

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Battery; Phys. contact rude/insult/angry manner; Interf w/LEO; obstr./resist/oppose misd warrant; Pedestrians Under Influence of Drugs or Alcohol; Criminal trespass; Property as posted per KSA 32-1013

Saline County Jail Bookings, June 6

On Monday, June 2nd the Saline County Republican Central Committee Chair, Brenda Smith was notified of the resignation of J. R. Claeys as Senator in District 24. 

According to the&nbsp;Saline County Republican Central Committee, a meeting will be held on Monday, June 16th at 7:00 pm&nbsp;at the Courtyard by Marriott in Salina, KS on 3020 Riffel Dr. Only the Convention of Republican Committee Men and Committee Women from Saline and Dickinson Counties at this meeting, will vote to elect the person to fill the Senate District 24 position effective immediately until November 2026.

There will then be a special election to fill Senate District 24 until the end of the current term of November 2028. In 2028, voters will elect a Senator for a 4-year term.

Jim Dubois, recently retired Saline County Treasurer, has advised Chairman Smith that he is interested in the position. Rep. Scott Hill from Dickinson County has also advised he is interested in the position.

Republican Convention to elect Senator J. R. Claeys replacement

Coronado Heights Road between Halstead Road and Fairchilds Road will be closed for approximately five days while Saline County Road and Bridge crews replace a crossroad structure that has failed.

Weather will determine the length of the closure.

Driving around road closure barricades is unlawful and extremely unsafe. Please obey all traffic signs for your safety and the safety of the construction workers.

Saline County announces road closure on Coronado Heights Road 

On the morning of Thursday, June 5th a semi-truck ran into a City of Salina's Water Department truck on 1020 N. 9th.

According to the Salina Police Department at around 9:00 am, a City of Salina Water Dept. truck was parked on the side of 1020 N. 9th and a few moments later, a semi-truck that was going northbound on N. 9th ran into the truck after its right-front passenger tire blew out.

The driver of the semi lost control and ran over a light pole along with a fire hydrant.&nbsp;Nobody was in the water department's truck when the accident happened and no injuries were reported.

Salina Police responded to the scene and roads were not closed.

Semi rams into City of Salina Water Department truck after its tire blew out

Salina authorities are currently investigating a crime that occurred at First Bank Kansas in Salina, where an unknown suspect broke a window and started a fire.

According to the Salina Police Department on Wednesday June, 4th at around 8:00 am, officers responded to a call from First Bank Kansas employees on 1333 W. Crawford. It was reported that a window along the west side of the building had been broken out.&nbsp;

It was determined that an unknown suspect damaged the window and started a fire in the area of it. The fire caused damage to the window trim and carpet just inside the damaged window. However, no entry was made into the bank.

The investigation is currently ongoing and Salina&nbsp;Fire Department Fire Inspectors, are assisting the Police Department with the investigation.

Unknown suspect breaks window and starts fire at a Salina bank, investigation ongoing 

NAME:&nbsp;Eagle Feather, Julius Dakota

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;DUI; 3rd conv in 10yrs; BAC .08 &gt;;w/in 3 hrs; Driving While Suspended; Ignition interlock device; Operate a car without a required device; Interf. w/LEO; obstr./resist/oppose misd warrant; Transporting an open container

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation;&nbsp;Failure to appear (4 counts

NAME:&nbsp;Hockett, Ronald Christopher

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

NAME:&nbsp;Langston, Karen Michelle

NAME:&nbsp;McDowell, Tristian Pacey

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Failure to appear; Poss. of marijuana

Saline County Jail Bookings, June 5

After a strong showing of 450 people from the soft opening at CupKates, owner Kate Jennings is looking forward to meet the demand for the grand opening and days to come.

CupKates, a brand new bakery/restaurant that will open this Friday, June 6th is expecting to see another large crowd of people who are excited to try the gluten-free, all natural, made from scratch recipes.

Jennings' motivation is to serve people who are limited to a gluten-free diet and still want to have a delicious treat.&nbsp;

"I know what it feels like to walk in somewhere and not being able to eat as many things as everyone else," said Jennings.&nbsp;

Back in college, Jennings discovered she has a gluten intolerance. She then started to work at Ad Astra Books &amp; Coffee House, where she baked gluten-free products. Jennings told the owner at Ad Astra that her dream was to always open up her own cafe. She received the support from Ad Astra and understood that she could only cater to those who had a similar intolerance as her.

"I loved my time at Ad Astra, but I could not cater to the celiac population or those who have a severe allergy as much as I wanted to," stated Jennings. "I just wanted to have a place where they can walk in and know everything here is safe."

Nothing at CupKates is frozen and Jennings is all about providing her customers with the best quality items as possible. Many people have approached Jennings and wondered if there is a texture/taste difference between gluten-free and non-gluten-free products. However, that is not the case.

"There's not much of a difference. I had lots of people come in who were not gluten-free and they enjoyed their pastry just as the next person," said Jennings.

The recipes are not a secret, and Jennings commented that she is open to sharing her recipes if customers are curious. She is also set to teach a gluten-free baking class at the Salina Art Center this Fall.

"I think it's a beautiful thing for people to learn how to cook for themselves. I am more than happy to help others and share my recipes," said Jennings.

Jennings plans to add more recipes and items to the menu in the future. This includes gluten-free sourdough bread, hamburger buns, custom birthday cakes and much more.

"There are definitely going to be more recipes coming, but we will slowly add those once everyone feels confident with all the recipes we have," stated Jennings.&nbsp;

Breakfast and lunch items are looking to come soon on a ribbon cutting event that will happen on Friday, June 20th. Sandwich bread will be available during the grand opening while supplies last.

CupKates will currently serve cookies, cupcakes, scones (savory &amp; sweet), muffins, sweet rolls, sweet breads coffee, oatmeal cream pies, fresh-pressed juices, real fruit smoothies and more.

Tuesday - Saturday from 6:00 am - 3:00 pm (every "First Fridays" will operate from 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm)

For more information, go to<a href="https://cupkatescafe.com/">&nbsp;https://cupkatescafe.com/</a>

CupKates ready for the grand opening on Friday, owner shares how it started

Get ready to have some fun this Sunday as the VFW Post 1432 and the American Legion Post 62, will host the 2nd annual "Family Fun Day."

On Sunday, June 8th this free community event will occur from&nbsp;10 am - 8 pm. There will be over 40 local vendors present at the event (from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm), along with Wanderlust Foodies LLC food truck serving smashburgers, Kona Ice and live bands ("Unchained," “Fed Up" and Nick Taylor). A Dunk tank, Bounce House, farm animals and much more will be present at the game.

Local non-profits will also make an appearance and will be conducting games throughout the event. Cooling stations will be available inside the VFW building as well.

Raffles will be going on during the event. All money collected will help the event for next year, local veterans and local youth organizations.

"We are just going to have a whole bunch of fun," said event organizer and American Legion Post Commander,&nbsp;Richard Kinney. "I am happy everybody has been sharing this event to the public. This has been a joint effort and I would to thank everyone who has helped with this event."

Kinney shouted out the sponsors for the event:

Lincoln Park Home Health, Nex-Tech Wireless, Express Employment Professionals, Jab it PC, First Bank Kansas and Bennington State Bank, American Legion Post 62 and the American Legion Riders chapter 62.

VFW Post 1432 to host 2nd annual "Family Fun Day" this Sunday

Just before 2:00 am on Wednesday, June 4th, the Salina Fire Department responded to reports of a commercial fire at the Country Inn and Suites located at 2760 S. 9th St. Initial reports indicated a fire in a storage room on the second floor.

Upon arrival, fire crews encountered an active fire that appeared to be coming from the exterior of a HVAC unit with fire extending into the adjacent storage room. The building's sprinkler system had activated, containing the fire to the room of origin. Firefighters initiated suppression operations, extinguishing the remaining flames. The fire was brought under control and extinguished within 10 minutes of arrival of the first due engine company.

During the incident, all guests and hotel staff were safely evacuated from the building and there were no reported injuries.

Preliminary investigation suggests that the fire originated due to a faulty HVAC unit.

In addition to the Salina Fire Department, the Salina Police Department responded and provided assistance with evacuation, crowd management, and traffic control.

Hotel fire in South Salina quickly contained by Salina Fire Department

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Maikel Garcia homered, doubled and scored three times, and the Kansas City Royals beat the St. Louis Cardinals 7-5 in the second game of a day-night doubleheader on Thursday night.

Royals starter Cole Ragans pitched three innings in his return from the 15-day injured list with a left groin strain. He allowed five runs on five hits, struck out four and walked three.

Angel Zerpa (3-0) pitched three scoreless innings in relief, giving up one hit, one walk and striking out four. Carlos Estévez earned his 18th save in 21 tries.

Cardinals starter Matthew Liberatore (3-5) was pulled after four-plus innings with fatigue-related issues. He allowed a season-high seven runs on eight hits.

The Cardinals rallied to take game one of the doubleheader 6-5 on Willson Contreras' RBI single in the tenth.

Garcia's two-run homer in the first gave the Royals a 2-0 lead in the nightcap.

Freddy Fermin hit a curveball 406 feet into the third deck in left field to lead off the third, sparking a three-run rally. Jonathan India singled and scored and Garcia doubled and scored on a Salvador Perez single to give the Royals a 5-1 lead.

Contreras singled home the Cardinals' first run in the first inning and jump started a four-run third with a two-run double. Nolan Arenado followed with a two-run homer to tie the game at 5-all.

Nick Loftin's RBI single scored Mark Canha to break the tie in the fourth. Garcia walked and scored on a Perez single in the fifth.

Liberatore left the game after surrendering a leadoff walk to Garcia in the fifth.

Garcia's homer gave the Royals a first-inning home run for the third straight game.

The Royals are at the Chicago White Sox on Friday night to open a series, while the Cardinals are home against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

⚾️ Garcia homers as the Royals beat the Cards to split doubleheader

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Willson Contreras had an RBI single in the 10th inning to give the St. Louis Cardinals a 6-5 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Thursday in the first game of a day-night doubleheader.

Yohel Pozo scored on a fielder’s choice to tie it for the Cardinals before Contreras singled to left against Carlos Estévez (2-1) to score Lars Nootbaar.

Vinnie Pasquantino singled in a run in the top of the 10th to give the Royals a 5-4 lead.

Cardinals starter Miles Mikolas allowed three runs on eight hits in six innings. JoJo Romero (2-3) allowed a run in one inning.

Noah Cameron continued his string of impressive starts for the Royals with six scoreless innings. He struck out three, walked two and gave up two hits while lowering his ERA to 0.85 in five starts this season.

Jonathan India homered on the second pitch of the game — a 401-foot shot to left-center. Jac Caglianone added to the lead in the fourth with his first major league hit, a double that scored Salvador Perez to make it 2-0.

Contreras doubled and scored, and Nolan Arenado scored on Yohel Pozo's sacrifice fly in the seventh to cut the deficit to 3-2.

Iván Herrera’s two-run homer in the eighth inning gave the Cardinals a 4-3 lead. India’s sacrifice fly off Ryan Helsley scored Nick Loftin to tie it in the ninth.

With the bases loaded in the bottom of the seventh and the Cardinals down 3-1, manager Oliver Marmol called on Nolan Gorman to pinch hit. Royals manager Matt Quatraro countered with left-hander Daniel Lynch IV out of the bullpen, forcing Marmol to use Yohel Pozo from the right side. Lynch limited Pozo to a sacrifice fly and got out of the jam by retiring Nootbaar.

India’s home run was the fourth he’s hit against Mikolas in his career. It was the 12th time India has led off a game with a homer,

⚾️ Contreras RBI single in 10th lifts Cards past Royals in doubleheader opener

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e9a8aa85-570d-4fe6-ad71-892ef5d79ecd?elinkdata=26986">Tyler Favretto</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ef875b48-ea54-4770-bdbb-7aebd6921d10?elinkdata=26986">Ritter Steinmann</a> have been named as 2025 NAIA Baseball All-Americans as announced by the NAIA and the American Baseball Coaches Association.

Favretto was stellar for the Coyotes finishing the season batting .423, which ranked No. 32 in the NAIA. He had a .579 on base percentage, which ranked fourth best in the NAIA and his .755 slugging average ranked 38th in the country. Favretto finished the season with 63 walks, which was the second highest total in the NAIA this season after finishing tied for the most walks in the country a year ago. He had 19 doubles on the season which tied him for 24th in the NAIA and hit 14 homeruns on the season as he finished with 35 extra base hits on the season that ranked No. 28 in the NAIA.

Steinmann was excellent as the closer for the Coyotes this season. He made 28 appearances, some in middle relief as well as closer, tossing 61 innings with 77 strikeouts and a 1.38 WHIP. He averaged 11.36 strikeouts per game. His 28 appearances was the second highest total in the NAIA this season. He led the country in saves with 10, more than double of any other player in the NAIA. His innings pitched total ranked among the country's best among relief pitchers. His strikeout total ranked No. 75 in the NAIA among all pitchers. His strikeouts per nine innings average ranked No. 24 in the NAIA.

The teams are selected by members of the American Baseball Coaches Association and the NAIA-Baseball Coaches Association All-America Committee. Starting in the 2024 season, the NAIA started recognizing a third All-America team. This year's All-America teams include 28 student-athletes who participated in the 2025 Avista NAIA World Series in Lewiston, Idaho.

The ABCA All-America team was first recognized in 1949 and now includes nine divisions: NCAA Divisions I, II and III, NAIA, NJCAA Divisions I, II and III, Pacific Association Division, and high school. ABCA/Rawlings Gold Glove teams were first recognized in 2007.

KWU had another wildly successful season in 2025, finishing 41-15 overall, marking the third straight season the team has won 40 or more games, a new school record streak. KWU also made its fourth straight NAIA Opening Round appearance, also a new school record long streak.

Favretto and Steinmann earn NAIA Baseball All-America honors

ASSISTANT HEAD COACH/SPECIAL TEAMS COORDINATOR DAVE TOUB

Q: What areas of improvement are you looking for in Matt Araiza?

TOUB:&nbsp;“That’s a good question. We’re looking for him (Matt Araiza) – he’s got a bomb of a leg; he can hit the ball long. We need more hang time on his punts, more vertical power and then we need more accuracy in the pooch area, which is getting balls inside the 20. That’s what he’s really emphasizing during this offseason.”

Q: How does the change in the kickoff return rule change what you’re looking for in a return guy?

TOUB:&nbsp;“It’s going to change – it’s not going to change the style of the guy, but it’s going to change how many reps we get because everybody’s going to kick it into the target zone now. You can’t afford to kick a touchback (and) give up the ball to the 35 (yard line) automatically. The average last year throughout the whole season I think was 29.5 yards getting the ball out that far, so it was kind of a wash to kick a touchback, you’re not giving up anything. Now, that extra five yards, that’s going to make all the difference in the world. It’s good for special teams now. Kickoff team, you have to kick it in there (the target zone) every time. Kick return, you’re going to get returns every time. I think it’s going to be 85 percent returns – to 90 percent so it’s going to be a lot more fun for the fans, better for special teams coaches and players and jobs so it’s all good.”

Q: Do you need more speed back there?

TOUB:&nbsp;“You have to make sure that you have guys that are good at it (returning kicks). I mean, the speed is always something that you’re – you’re always looking for that dynamic guy that can field it with speed. Brashard (Smith) brings that to the table, the new rookie we got. I like him back there – (Jalen) Royals has talent and then Nohl (Williams), he’s done it too in college, so we have a lot of guys, with the young guys to work with.”

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR STEVE SPAGNUOLO

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“I don’t really have anything, (I’m) just happy to be back on the field and practicing and doing this (media). I hope everybody was safe yesterday with the little scare with the tornado. That was a little new although we used to get them when I was there but anyway, I’ll open it up and we’ll roll.”

Q: What are your first impressions of Nohl Williams?

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