The Kansas Masonic Foundation has selected the state winners of its annual scholarships. Byron Erickson, Secretary/Treasurer of Salina Lodge # 60, stated, “Over 1,000 applications were received statewide, and the Foundation was able to present 166 awards of $1,000 each. Five local students were honored at a dinner and ceremony at the Salina Masonic Lodge #60 on Thursday evening.” The five recipients were Madelyn Craft, Anna Hogeland, Mayci Ingram, Hannah Mertz, and Seth Robben.

Freemasonry has over one and a half million members in the U.S.A. Salina Lodge # 60 was chartered in 1869 and has about 200 members. 170 Masonic Lodges throughout Kansas provide philanthropic support within their communities. The

Kansas Masonic Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established to expand Masonic philanthropy in the fields of charitable, educational, and scientific programs. In 2024, Kansas Masonic Lodges collectively donated more than $425,000 to worthy charitable organizations for the betterment of their communities. Their mission is guided by the enduring principles of our fraternity– brotherly love, relief, and truth.

Local students receive Kansas Masonic Foundation scholarships

Delivered to your virtual porch during the noon hour every Monday through Friday — on time and free :-)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Salina Post news tip email address

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Salina Post accepting letters to the editor

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

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

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

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

2024 League of Women Voters General Election Candidate Forum

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

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

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

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

River bridge, road project south of Wilson closed indefinetly 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Precipitation reporting organization seeks local, area volunteers

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

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

Ask the caller specific questions.

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

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

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

Resist the pressure to donate on the spot.

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

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

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

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

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

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

FTC: How to spot and stop dishonest charity fundraisers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Beginning Tuesday, April 29, the City of Salina Public Works Department will be replacing a section of roadway on Edison Place near Ohio Street. During this time, the access to Edison Place as well as one lane of south bound traffic on Ohio Street will be closed during repairs. Any traffic needing access to Edison Place will be detoured via Westchester Drive.

Weather permitting, repairs are expected to be completed within two to three days.

Edison Place and Ohio Street pavement repair

HARVEY COUNTY —Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall is enjoying time away from Washington. On social media, he reported he stopped at Stinger Inc.,&nbsp;302 Dean Street in Burrton on Thursday.

Marshall wrote, "Thanks to the good folks at Stinger Inc. in Burrton for letting me drive their famous “Lamborghini of farming machines,” which takes hauling hay to the next level. She’s high-class machinery!"

The U.S. Senate returns to work at 3p.m. EDT on Monday.

Kan. U.S. Senator visits farm equipment manufacturer

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(S):&nbsp;Theft of prop/services;Value $1,500 to $25,000

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Driving While Suspended

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Uebelher, Christopher Joseph

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear, Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500 and Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body and Poss of hallucinogenic drug; 1 prior conviction

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Anguish, Brandon Alan

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Aggravated burglary; Dwelling for felony, theft, domestic violence, or sexually motivated crime, Crim damage to prop;w/o consent &lt;$1K, Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warran and Breach of privacy;install concealed camcorder

Saline County Jail Bookings, April 27

K-STATE RESEARCH AND EXTENSION NEWS SERVICE

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Adding lamb to the shopping list could liven up Spring meals, says Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee.

She notes that in many countries, lamb (a young sheep) is the major source of protein. In the United States, many think of lamb as a springtime food, but it can be enjoyed year-round.

Sheep are the oldest domesticated meat species, having been raised by humans beginning about 9,000 years ago in the Middle East.

“When shopping for lamb, look for meat that is fine textured and firm that has red coloring and white marbling,” Blakeslee said. Marbling is white flecks of intramuscular fat within the meat muscle.

The fat trim should be firm, white, and not too thick, she said. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ams.usda.gov/grades-standards/lamb-grades-and-standards">USDA quality grades</a>&nbsp;are reliable guides.

There are five basic major (primal) cuts into which the lamb carcass is separated: shoulder, rack, shank/breast, loin, and leg.

“Packages of fresh lamb purchased in the supermarket will be labeled with the primal cut as well as the product, such as shoulder roast or loin chop,” Blakeslee said.

For more information on different cuts of lamb and how to cook lamb meat safely, see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/meat-catfish/lamb-farm-table">USDA Lamb from Farm to Table.</a>

&nbsp; More information is also available from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html">local extension offices</a>&nbsp;in Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Food scientist suggests adding lamb to spring meals 

By CHELSI MEDVED <a href="https://www.hhs.k-state.edu/news/2025/04/07/kccto-partners-with-kansas-state-universitys-division-of-it-in-developing-statewide-directory-for-kansass-early-child-care-and-education-system/">K-State News Service</a>

MANHATTAN — Thanks to a partnership between&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kccto.org/">Kansas Child Care Training Opportunities</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/it/">Division of Information Technology</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University, early childhood professionals in Kansas will have access to a new statewide directory and professional empowerment portal.

The Division of Information Technology provided Kansas Child Care Training Opportunities, or KCCTO — a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hhs.k-state.edu/earlychildhood/professionaleducation.html">K-State-sponsored project</a>&nbsp;that provides professional development and technical assistance to early childhood professionals across Kansas — with essential expertise and support in developing internal data systems to build the framework of a statewide early childhood workforce and training management system.

This collaboration has led to the development and launch of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.yourcape.org/">Career Advancement and Professional Empowerment, or Cape</a>, which will equip early childhood professionals with a powerful tool for tracking and managing their professional development throughout their careers.

"From the initial design to the near-completion of Cape, the K-State Division of IT has been a cornerstone of this project," said Patty Peschel, executive director of KCCTO. "Their technical expertise, problem-solving skills and tireless dedication to our mission made it possible to achieve something extraordinary in less than one year. Without them, this milestone would not have been within reach.

"Key features of Cape include personalized profiles, statewide tools and resources, and the ability to view and manage professional growth over time, all on a single, centralized platform.

Built on the Salesforce platform, Cape is uniquely adaptable to meet the specific needs of early childhood professionals in Kansas. Its scalable and customizable design ensures that the system can address current workforce demands while evolving to meet future needs.

&nbsp;"From the start, we knew that KCCTO needed more than just a system — they needed a long-term solution that could evolve with the early childhood workforce," said Sarah Mattocks, director of enterprise systems in K-State's Division of Information Technology. "Our team worked closely with KCCTO and state stakeholders to identify partners that could help turn a conceptual vision into a functional, user-friendly platform. Seeing Cape come to life has been incredibly rewarding. It's a testament to what's possible when technology and user needs align to create a solution that has a real, lasting impact on a critical workforce."

Cape had its soft launch with KCCTO in January and is set for its official debut in May 2025. With ongoing support from K-State's Division of Information Technology, Cape is positioned to remain a dynamic and innovative resource for years to come.

In just 11 short weeks since its soft launch, Cape has already made a significant impact across Kansas, including more than 7,000 training enrollments and more than 4,000 Cape accounts created by users from 99 out of Kansas' 105 counties.

"KCCTO's commitment to outreach and engagement across all 105 Kansas counties aligns with and exemplifies the mission of our land-grant promise to drive economic prosperity for all Kansans, said Brad Behnke, dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences. "This commitment to supporting early childhood professionals strengthens communities, empowers the workforce, and ensures better outcomes for children and families across the state.

"The project benefitted from the expertise, collaboration and unwavering commitment of many additional statewide partners and agencies through the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.allinforkansaskids.org/">All In For Kansas Kids</a>&nbsp;collaboration, including Child Care Aware of Kansas and early childhood state agencies such as the Kansas Children's Cabinet and Trust Fund, the Kansas Department for Children and Families, the Kansas State Department of Education, and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, which served as the state lead.

K-State partnership leads to statewide early child care and education directory

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance, Interference with LEO; knowingly flee by means other than motor vehicle for felony case, Unlawful voluntary sexual relations; Sodomy with child &gt;14&lt;16 and Unlawful voluntary sexual relations; Intercourse with child &gt;14&lt;16

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500 and Trespass on railroad property

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Magenheimer, Maredith Ann

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Arson; Intentional to non-dwelling of another without consent

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;McMurray, Kacie Kay Lyn Shannon

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation, Failure to appear and Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circ; felony

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Torriente Santi, Yuniel

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Stalking; Reckless conduct causing fear to person or family

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Winston-Taylor, Rachelle Yavonne

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor and Domestic Battery: rude physical contact

Saline County Jail Bookings, April 26

SALINA, Kan.&nbsp;—&nbsp;Four Coyotes earned world championship honors, fueling another excellent effort by Kansas Wesleyan’s DECA program at the organization’s annual international competition, held earlier this month in San Francisco.

Senior Clay Gagnon and sophomore Paige Chauncey prevailed in the Sports Marketing event, while freshmen Shelby Davidson and Delanie McMullen won the Event Planning category. Chauncey, Davidson and McMullen were competing at the international meet for the first time.

The quartet of world titles gave the Coyotes 15 in the past four years and marked the third year in a row Kansas Wesleyan had world champions in multiple events.

"I'm incredibly proud of the time and efforts students commit to DECA to be exceptional,” said Dr. Trish Petak, associate professor of business and accounting and the team’s coach. “The behind-the-scenes preparation is where their growth really happens, shaping them into confident presenters and strategic collaborators."&nbsp;

All told, 13 Coyotes competed in the April event and 12 advanced to the final round. Ten recorded top-10 results.

More than 1,300 students from more than 100 institutions competed, including those from Arizona State, Clemson, Pepperdine, North Carolina and UNLV.

A full capsule of KWU’s top-10 finishers appears below.

Paige Chauncey (sophomore) and Clay Gagnon (senior)&nbsp;– Sports Marketing

Shelby Davidson (freshman) and Delanie McMullen (freshman) – Event Planning

Oriana Botz (junior) and Tru Haesemeyer (junior) – Marketing Communications&nbsp;

Courtney Auld (sophomore) and Caleigh Evans (senior)&nbsp; – Entertainment Marketing

Tiana Marion (senior) and Madelene McVey (sophomore) – International Marketing

Quartet of Coyotes earn DECA world championships

UPCOMING GAMES: Salina South Softball vs Hutchinson - 4/25 at 4pm

High School Sports LIVE STREAMS

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman continues a series on leadership and entrepreneurship. Kris Munsch discusses 'Where's My Bag of Money?"

🎤 Forward Ever: Part 3: Kris Munsch: 'Where's My Bag of Money?'

The Salina Area United Way’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program wrapped up another successful season, preparing 830 tax returns for local individuals and families — all at no cost to the clients.

From February 3 through April 3, VITA provided free, confidential tax preparation services for community members earning under $60,000 with simple returns. Of the 830 returns prepared, 770 have already been accepted by the IRS as of April 19, 2025. The service continues to be an essential support for working families, ensuring they receive the refunds and credits they deserve.

This year’s program was powered by the dedication of 34 IRS-certified volunteers, including 25 Kansas Wesleyan University students and 9 recurring community volunteers. Collectively, they contributed 1,488 volunteer hours to serve clients with professionalism and care. Through a partnership with KWU’s Business Class, students helped prepare 166 of the total returns and contributed 130 volunteer hours.

“Our volunteers are the heart of the VITA program,” said Levi Holcom, Finance Director for the Salina Area United Way. “They bring skill, care, and a true sense of service to the community. Whether they’ve returned for multiple seasons or joined us for the first time, their impact is incredible.”

Clients like Brenda and Bob B. expressed deep appreciation for the service.

“My husband and I appreciate so much your preparing our taxes and sending in the forms for us. VITA has been helping with our taxes for multiple years. We are so thankful for all of the VITA volunteers who gave their time to help individuals like us. We visited with the wonderful tax preparer and felt so taken care of," Brenda said.&nbsp;

Salina Area United Way also extends heartfelt thanks to local restaurants that donated meals to support volunteers throughout the season, including Blue Skye Brewery &amp; Eats, Martinelli's Little Italy, Chick-fil-A, La Curva Mexican Restaurant, Papa John's, Schlotzsky's, and Mokas Coffee &amp; Bistro. For more information or to get involved in future volunteer opportunities, visit unitedwaysalina.org or follow Salina Area United Way on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Salina Area United Way’s VITA program brings free tax prep to 800+ families

Kansas Wesleyan Baseball claimed its third straight KCAC Championship on Saturday, but the Coyotes will have to share. KWU swept the Avila Eagles in the regular season finale at Dean Evans Stadium to share the KCAC Regular Season Championship with Oklahoma Wesleyan.

It's the third straight championship for the Coyotes, a program first, and the Coyotes picked up their 30th KCAC win, marking the first time in school history the team has won 30 KCAC games in back-to-back seasons.

The Coyotes will be the No. 2 seed in the KCAC Tournament after conference tiebreak procedures were applied. Oklahoma Wesleyan took two of three games from Ottawa in Bartlesville, the last game completed in a downpour with the Eagles winning 18-16, after a nearly four-hour long weather delay in the seventh inning.

In Saturday's opener, Avila took a 2-0 lead in the top of the second on a laser shot homer by Jack Virden over the wall in right field.

Wesleyan drew even in the bottom of the third. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6f85e8b0-e04e-401b-be15-ee9a0685eda6?elinkdata=25777">Eric Romero</a> led off the inning with a single to third and went to second on a wild pitch. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5a0978c9-81a3-46ee-a32d-5222390e20b5?elinkdata=25777">Jacob Williamson</a> followed with a double that skipped over third base into the corner for a double to bring in the first run. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/816221e2-b678-4669-9b58-6600f6bcfcf1?elinkdata=25777">Tyler Favretto</a> moved the runner with a ground out and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ac7e05bb-fedb-4c0c-bc0e-a0c4ff049885?elinkdata=25777">Garrett Garfield</a> tied the game with a sacrifice fly.

Avila took the lead in the fourth and held advantage until the bottom of the fifth. After a walk to Favretto, Garfield reached on an error. Two batters later <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f6d574ad-de66-4304-a832-43eaa667d8de?elinkdata=25777">Carter Allen</a> launched a ball out to left for a 3-run homer to put the Coyotes up 5-3.

The Coyotes added another in the sixth when <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/cc303b02-ee7d-4cc2-8712-a9d7d1393a56?elinkdata=25777">Blake Dale</a> was hit by a pitch and then scored on Williamson's single to left.

The Eagles got a run in the eighth, but the Coyotes had an answer. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/de37d06b-3acb-4349-953b-3ca2af273c84?elinkdata=25777">Coulson Riggs</a> singled and two batters later, Williamson launched a ball out to left center to make it 8-4.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2bffe832-c886-4854-8a23-a50ff410c04a?elinkdata=25777">Ritter Steinmann</a> closed the door in the ninth, striking out the side for the save, his seventh of the season after entering the game in the top of the eighth.

Williamson had three of KWU's eight hits in the game and drove in four runs. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/529e0f55-854b-4d61-b76c-21ef2c739e52?elinkdata=25777">Nathan Righi</a> got the win to improve to 7-2 on the season allowing three runs on six hits with six strikeouts.

The Coyotes got an incredible pitching performance by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/505481af-375a-4bbe-925a-fa19d2228008?elinkdata=25777">Shaw Lee</a> in the series finale.

Lee took a no hitter into the seventh inning before Avila's Zach Dillman pushed one through the left side to end the no-hit bid.

Williamson continued to swing a hot bat, breaking the scoreless tie with a homer to lead off the bottom of the third inning.

The Coyotes added two more in the fourth. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b4b01250-fef1-46bc-9b51-a4e2296ef4db?elinkdata=25777">Joe Finder</a> led off with a double and then scored on a hit by Riggs. After a wild pitch, Romero singled home Riggs to make it 3-0.

Wesleyan added one more run in the sixth as Finder was hit by a pitch to start the inning and later in the inning pinch runner <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3258dc3a-5bb4-4fb2-a052-69ff4227ad23?elinkdata=25777">Alex Garcia</a> scored on a wild pitch.

The seventh inning hit was only the second base runner that Avila had in the entire game, the only other a leadoff walk to start the game.

Favretto and Riggs had two hits each for the Coyotes.

Lee improved to 5-0 with the 1-hit win, striking out six and walking one.

⚾️ KWU claims share of KCAC Championship after sweeping Avila

(<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6881be86-dcdb-4ef3-9b0d-ba3559e572f4?elinkdata=25808">BRACKET</a> | <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8e60cbd2-9126-471b-92d9-81926913dfc8?elinkdata=25808">TOURNAMENT INFORMATION</a>) Kansas Wesleyan Softball is the No. 8 seed and will face top seeded Friends University in the first round of the 2025 KCAC Softball Championships on Tuesday at 11 a.m. at the Branson RecPlex in Branson, Missouri.

The Coyotes reached the tournament by winning three of their last four games ending up in a tie for seventh with Tabor and Saint Mary, and earned the eighth seed after conference tiebreak procedures were followed.

KWU enters the tournament with a 23-21 overall record and finished with a 14-12 record in the KCAC. The Coyotes swept Bethany in the regular season finale doubleheader that was delayed three days by weather before coming away with a 3-0 win in the second game to close out the sweep.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d37ac346-cb9a-4c51-b671-b3d719f4fdd8?elinkdata=25808">Keira Hammen</a> leads the Coyote hitters with a .389 average, eight homeruns and 27 RBI. She ranks sixth in the KCAC in homers and 30th in the KCAC in RBI and in the Top 20 in batting average.

As a team the Coyotes rank ninth in the KCAC in batting average, hitting .284 as a team. They rank third in the conference with 22 homers and sixth in doubles with 63.

The Coyote pitching staff is solid, ranking second in the KCAC in ERA at 3.01. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/55b384da-c0b3-4006-88ca-089b5b65939d?elinkdata=25808">Alli Mickelsen</a> paces KWU's staff with a 10-2 record, ranking third in the KCAC with a 2.09 ERA and nine in strikeouts with 67. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7326e11b-6fde-4cb1-ba33-61442676f795?elinkdata=25808">Caitlyn Collier</a> ranks 10th in the conference in strikeouts with 65 and ninth in ERA at 2.87. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2a26ef58-97a3-4b54-bb54-57c49102fe72?elinkdata=25808">Bella Allen</a> also is solid with a 3.48 ERA ranking 14th in the KCAC.

Friends is the No. 1 seed and enters the tournament with a 33-11 record overall and finished with a 21-5 in the KCAC.

The Falcons lead the KCAC in homers with 46 and rank second in batting average, hitting .358 as a team. Elena Montoya ranks fifth in the KCAC with a .441 batting average. Becca Dunn ranks second in the KCAC with 57 RBI. Priscilla Mora's 15 homers leads the KCAC.

Friends' pitching staff revolves around Riley Wertz, who ranks second in the KCAC in ERA and second in the NAIA in strikeouts.

Friends swept the regular season meetings between teams, winning 8-0 and 15-5.

🥎 Coyotes are No. 8 seed in KCAC Tournament, face No. 1 Friends in first round

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;Two more Kansas State football players received the call of a lifetime from NFL franchises on Saturday as running back&nbsp;DJ Giddens&nbsp;and safety&nbsp;Marques Sigle&nbsp;were selected on the final day of the 2025 NFL Draft.

Giddens was chosen with the 14th&nbsp;pick of the fifth round – No. 151 overall – by the Indianapolis Colts, while Sigle was selected nine picks later with the 23rd&nbsp;pick of the round – No. 160 overall – by the San Francisco 49ers.

With&nbsp;Jacob Parrish’s selection in the third round by Tampa Bay on Friday night, the Wildcats have now had 10 players drafted over the last three years, their most over a three-year stretch since 12 players were selected between 2002 and 2004.

A product of Junction City, Kansas, Giddens became the sixth Wildcat all time to be selected by Indianapolis, including the second in the last three years as he joins cornerback Julius Brents, who was taken in the second round of the 2023 draft. Sigle is the seventh Wildcat to be selected by San Francisco and the first since DJ Reed in 2018.

Giddens finished his three-year K-State career by ranking in the top 10 in school history in 11 career categories, most notably a No. 2 ranking in rushing yards per attempt (5.97), third in rushing yards (3,087), fourth in total scrimmage yards (3,766) and receiving yards by a running back (679). He became just the fourth player in school history to produce multiple 1,000-yard rushing seasons, joining fellow NFL Draft picks Darren Sproles, Daniel Thomas, Deuce Vaughn.

Giddens was a Doak Walker Award semifinalist and All-Big 12 Second Team selection a year ago after rushing for 1,343 yards and seven touchdowns on 205 carries, while he hauled in 21 catches for 258 yards and a touchdown. He set a school record by averaging 6.55 yards per carry in 2024, breaking the previous record of 6.49 yards per carry by Darren Sproles in 2003. It was the sixth-highest average in Big 12 history (minimum 200 carries). Additionally, he finished eighth in the country in scrimmage yards per game (133.42), 10th in all-purpose yards per game (133.42), 13th in rushing yards per game (111.92) and 14th in in total rushing yards.

Giddens had 13 career 100-yard rushing games with seven of those coming in 2024, including a 187-yard effort against Oklahoma State and a 182-yard output the next game at Colorado to become the first Wildcat with at least 180 rushing yards in consecutive games in six years.

Sigle played in 50 career games – including the final 25 at K-State after transferring in from North Dakota State – as he totaled 174 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, seven interceptions and 26 total passes defended. As a senior, the Omaha, Nebraska, native posted career highs with three interceptions – including one he returned for a touchdown at West Virginia – and 6.5 tackles for loss in addition to 60 tackles and three pass breakups. He tied for eighth in the Big 12 in interceptions and ranked third in interception-return yards (93).

During his first season in Manhattan in 2023, Sigle earned All-Big 12 honors after tallying a career-high 63 tackles and 10 total passes defended as he also earned votes for the Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year.

K-State’s Giddens, Sigle Selected on Final Day of 2025 NFL Draft

GREEN BAY, Wis.&nbsp;– The Kansas Jayhawks had a pair of players drafted on Saturday as running back Devin Neal and offensive lineman Bryce Cabeldue were selected in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

Neal was picked by the New Orleans Saints at pick No. 184, while Cabeldue went to the Seattle Seahawks at pick No. 192. With two draft picks for the second-consecutive season, the Jayhawks have now had multiple selections in back-to-back drafts for the first time since 1996-97.&nbsp;

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