"Bowl the Rock!" is the phrase the <a href="https://www.salinairishrb.com/">Salina Irish Road Bowling</a>&nbsp;(SIRB) organization uses for its game and they want familiarize it right here in Salina.&nbsp;

Salina Irish Road Bowling, has announced their 2nd go-around of the "Salina Irish Road Bowling Championship" that will be occurring on September 6th, 2025 at Indian Rock Park. Beginning at 9:15 am, this&nbsp;game&nbsp;originating from Ireland will be played as participants will roll a 28-ounce replica of a "cannonball" over a 3/4 mile course throughout the park.

Jerry Lonergan of SIRB, stated he wants this game to gain exposure in Salina.

"This game is fun to play and anybody can play this sport," said Lonergan. "Irish Bowling is a family-oriented game and we just want to expose this game to Salina."

Imported from rural Ireland, the game has roots going back to the 1600s when Irish rebels stole cannonballs from British armories and rather than carry the 28-ounce cannonballs, they opted to roll them down Irish backroads spawning contests to determine who could roll the cannonballs (which came to be called “bullets”) the furthest.&nbsp;

In the U.S., teams of four alternate rolling the 'bullet' around a designated course, with the winner determined by which team completed the course with the fewest number of rolls.

Last year, SIRB held the game for the first time in Salina at Indian Rock Park. Proceeds collected from registration and other fees, were donated towards the Kansas Wesleyan University (KWU) Student Hygiene Pantry, where they received a total of $2,000.&nbsp;Teams paid $100 to enter the competition and all the funds, along with some added support from sponsors cumulated the total amount of $2,000.

The funds were meant for the distribution to students’ essential health and hygiene products (soap, deodorant, toothpaste, etc.), along with education materials designed to support student wellbeing and keep the campus and community healthy.

KWU also played an important part by having the 45 members of the KWU women’s basketball team serve as volunteers throughout the event helping with course management, chasing stray bullets and serving as caddies for each team.

This year, SIRB is inviting the community to register and play in the Irish Road Bowling game this Saturday, September 6th. Registration is $100 per team, with a $15 lost ball deposit. There is an optional fee of $20 for t-shirts.&nbsp;

All registration fees and donations will go towards the KWU&nbsp;Student Hygiene Pantry.&nbsp;

Deadline to register is Monday, September 1st.&nbsp;

Lonergan hopes this becomes an annual event after this year's games.

For more information or to register, go to:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salinairishrb.com/">https://www.salinairishrb.com/</a>&nbsp; and you can also follow SIRB on Facebook at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559836916589">https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559836916589</a>

🎥 Salina organization holding 'Irish Road Bowling' game in September, hopes to gain exposure 

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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

'Salina SkyFire,' presented by JRI Hospitality, City of Salina and local partners - is kicking off the beloved city's fireworks show tomorrow (Friday, July 4th, 2025).

This event is free and open to the public, with free public parking at a first come, first served basis and is available in the Berkley Family Recreation Area&nbsp;(841 Markley Rd.) parking lots south of the fireworks launch area.

Gates open at 7:00 pm at the&nbsp;Berkley Family Recreation Area (841 Markley Rd.).

It is highly recommended that you bring lawn chairs, bug spray, water/snacks, phone chargers and ear protection (if necessary and for kids).

This event is a great time to bring your friends, family and celebrate Independence Day.

Fireworks will occur at&nbsp;10:00 pm, or just after dark.

You can RSVP on Facebook at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/24843257798596385">https://www.facebook.com/events/24843257798596385</a>

Chance to see another great fireworks show for the 2025 Salina Skyfire on Friday

A juvenile was taken into custody after lighting a firework and allegedly starting a grass fire.

According to the Salina Police Department on Wednesday, July 2nd at around 5:00 pm, officers and the Salina Fire Department went to Indian Rock Park (1500 Gypsum) about a reported grass fire in the area. Police stated that the caller told them they saw a male juvenile 'throwing fireworks on the grass, near the park's bathrooms.'

After the fire was extinguished, authorities located the juvenile (aged 16) in the area and matched the caller's description. Officers then approached and questioned him. Police stated that the boy 'admitted to lighting a firework and throwing it onto the grass' where it started the fire.

Officers then took the boy into custody and is being referred for one count of Arson.

Cost of damage was estimated to be at $100.

Juvenile taken into custody after allegedly starting a grass fire 

Salina USD 305 is now hiring substitute teachers and substitute paraprofessionals for Salina Public Schools.

Go here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mykelly.com/find-jobs/education-jobs">https://www.mykelly.com/find-jobs/education-jobs</a> to apply.

Salina CityGo Bus routes getting faster and more efficient

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, about the Big Beautiful Bill.

🎤 Forward Ever: Senator Moran on the Big Beautiful Bill

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Failure to appear

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

*No image available for&nbsp;Limon, Israel A*

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Assault; Battery on LEO; Physical contact with county or city officer on duty; Interf. w/LEO; obstr./resist/oppose misd. warrant; Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Driving While Suspended

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Making False Information; Theft by deception; Value less than $1,500

NAME:&nbsp;Primeaux, Joseph Jeffrey

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving While Suspended; Driving while habitual violator; Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Lewd and lascivious; Exposing to person =&gt;16

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Viol. protection order; Pre-trial order

Saline County Jail Bookings, July 3

This is day 8 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While yields and protein levels remain generally average, Kansas wheat farmers are facing significant challenges this year, including the widespread impact of wheat streak mosaic virus and related diseases, drought during the growing season and scattered rainfall during harvest.&nbsp;

Mike McClellan, who farms in Rooks County with his nephew Cade Beesley, started harvest about five days ago. Their crew includes hired hand Dave and Cade’s son, Coy. With about two-thirds left to cut, they’re making steady progress.

Yields have been above average compared to the past three years and are landing around average overall. Protein levels are ranging from 11.5 to 15.5 percent, and test weights on their better fields, those not hit by wheat streak mosaic virus, have been coming in at 58 to 60 pounds per bushel.

McClellan said their biggest challenges this year have been drought and wheat streak mosaic virus. The virus hit hard in the spring, with large pockets showing up across fields, more widespread than usual. The impact has been noticeable, with lower yields, reduced plant height, and lighter test weights in affected areas. Scattered rain showers during harvest have added to the test weight struggles.

Jackson Hoelker with Skyland Grain in Kingman County says harvest is nearly a month in, with cutting beginning the first week of June. Yields are coming in between 50 and 55 bushels per acre. Protein levels range from 10.5 to 11.5 percent, and test weights, which began around 60 to 63 pounds, have dropped slightly and are now closer to 58.

Hoelker estimates harvest is 85 to 90 percent complete. For the most part, everything that can be cut has been, but growers will need fields to finish drying out before they can finish the rest. While they haven’t seen much sprouting in the area, the biggest challenge this year has simply been how long the harvest is taking to complete.

Jason Ochs, who farms in Hamilton County, reported that harvest began on June 20, but some of the wheat has had several rain showers since it has been ripe. Other areas have received very little rain the past three years. Wheat in the area is short and hard to get it all in the header. The moisture came a little too late, but they did have perfect grainfill weather, cool and rainy. Yields are ranging based on conditions, but test weights have been decent, ranging from 59 to 61 pounds per bushel. He mentioned some wheat streak mosaic virus in the area. Ochs has seen some wind shatter from 40 mile per hour winds. While the wheat is short, the residue out there “makes a huge difference for the next crop,” he said. “It retains moisture and protects from sun and wind.”

The 2025 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on social media, use #wheatharvest25. Tag at @kansaswheat to share your harvest story and photos.

Day 8: Kansas Wheat Harvest report

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Fireandiron27/">Fire and Iron Station 27</a>,&nbsp;a nonprofit organization has announced a fundraiser for the support of two people who have been diagnosed with cancer.

"Ride For Hope" is a fundraiser set up by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Fireandiron27/">Fire and Iron Station 27</a>&nbsp;for the support of Karlie Miller and 2-year old, Macie Heller who have been battling cancer. This fundraiser is a two day event that will start at the Blind Pig (2501 Market Pl. #A) on Friday, July 11th and&nbsp;will continue at the Tumblweed event facility on Saturday, July 12th.

Janet Beemer of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Fireandiron27/">Fire and Iron Station 27</a>,&nbsp;describes that part of the proceeds from the Blind Pig and Tumblweed will go towards the Tammy Walker Cancer Center, Fire and Iron Station 27 (to continue the benefactor events) and for Miller/Heller.&nbsp;

Beemer stated that Fire and Iron Station 27 have been holding these fundraisers for individuals battling cancer since 2010.

On Friday, proceeds will be collected from a taco bar at the Blind Pig starting at 6:00 pm. On Saturday, proceeds will be collected from raffle tickets, a live auction and 'a game of chance.'&nbsp;

"We do this because we want to help families who are battling cancer with their loved ones," said Beemer. "Whether we help them make a house payment or pay bills, this is our way to give back to the community."

Those wanting to participate in the fundraiser can do so by registering their vehicles for a bike/car route at Tumblweed for the Saturday event. Vehicle registration starts at 9:00 am and the route starts at 11:00 am. The route starts from Tumblweed then towards, Brookville, Bennington, Solomon, Speakeasy (Salina) and ending back at Tumblweed at around 4:00 pm.

Afterwards, the benefit auction will occur at Tumblweed.

"This is such a great event and it is really special," said Jenni Jones of Tumblweed.

Miller is currently battling colon cancer and Heller is battling acute lymphoblastic cancer.

"This is very emotional and tears are shed throughout these event," said Beemer. "We are very happy, knowing that we are able to help families during their time of this low moment."

Fire and Iron Station 27 is a motorcycle club full of Firefighters and EMS members mostly from the Salina area.

Nonprofit holding fundraiser event for the support of two locals battling cancer

A musician/rapper from Salina is seeking encouragement and support locally, after qualifying for a national competition that&nbsp;aims to discover the 'next big musical talent.'

Payton Patterson, aka 'Trap Set' is from Salina and has made noise with his musical talent. After going viral with his hit song "Peach Crown," Patterson has been putting up averages of 1 million views a month on TikTok from his content. With Patterson's hard work and talent, this has put him in a great opportunity to become the 'next big musical talent' as he made it to the Top 5 in the "<a href="https://tophitmaker.org/">RollingStones Americas Next Top Hitmaker competition</a>."

Patterson has experienced great support from his fans around the world, but would also love to gain that support from his hometown.

"I have alot of support from all over the world, but it would mean everything to see Salina come along for the ride," said Patterson.

Patterson did not start rapping until last year, but always knew how to. He did many behind the scenes work for about 10 years, but was finally able to record his first song last year. His first release was on April 18, 2025 and hit a million each day on TikTok for the first 10 days he released the song.

He is a publisher as a member of the&nbsp;performing rights organization 'ASCAP' which is also 'PLEASEREMEMBERP8N.' Patterson is writer for ASCAP as well.

"I believe my sounds do amazing, but I have no support from my hometown," said Patterson.

Patterson was born in Salina in 1991, went to Kansas City for his junior and senior year of high school and then lived in Chicago for some time. His two kids Aiyana and&nbsp;Jaiden both attend Salina public schools.

Patterson made it to the Top 5 of the&nbsp;<a href="https://tophitmaker.org/">RollingStones Americas Next Top Hitmaker competition</a>&nbsp;and hopes people from Salina can vote him in to win the competition.&nbsp;Voting is free once daily and you can also donate to the <a href="https://www.globalcitizen.org/en/involved/donate/usa/">Global Citizen Foundation</a>, who puts together a music festival (Global Citizens Festival) in New York, headlined by artists such as Post Malone, Doja Cat, and The Weeknd.

Patterson has a chance to win and if he does, he gets the opportunity to perform at the <a href="https://www.globalcitizen.org/en/festival/">Global Citizens Festival</a>. This potential win can get Patterson into the RollingStone magazine as "America's Next Top Hitmaker" and walk away with $50,000.

Voting for finalists ends on Thursday, July 3rd and you can vote for 'Trap Set' free once a day by going to:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://tophitmaker.org/2025/trap-set">https://tophitmaker.org/2025/trap-set</a>

For 'Trap Set' music, go to:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/2U5oDxlU3LsPHOHMCNt2L1?si=Xhiyb-eaSdSsPUT-zQZnLQ">https://open.spotify.com/artist/2U5oDxlU3LsPHOHMCNt2L1?si=Xhiyb-eaSdSsPUT-zQZnLQ</a>

Local rapper qualifies for national competition, seeks encouragement from the community

<a>Major League Baseball announced its June Awards and the Wichita Wind Surge outfielder Kala’i Rosario was named player of the month for the Texas League.</a>

Wichita Wind Surge (Twins) outfielder&nbsp;Kala’i Rosario&nbsp;batted .282/.419/.529 and led the league in RBI (23) and was second in runs (18). He finished third in doubles (eight), triples (two), walks (18) and OPS (.948) and was fourth in total bases (45) and fifth in stolen bases (eight). He hit safely in eight straight games June 17-26 and hit for the cycle on June 25 against Springfield as he tied his career-high with four hits. Rosario, 22, was selected by Minnesota in the fifth round of the 2020 MLB Draft out of Waiakea High School in Hilo, Hawaii.

It’s the first time a Surge player has ever won the award.&nbsp; Wichita garnered a pair of Texas League Pitcher of the Month awards in the past.&nbsp; Simeon Woods Richardson in April of 2022 and Pierson Ohl in August of 2023.f

Wichita Wind Surge outfielder Kala’i Rosario named player of the month

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced this afternoon that infielder&nbsp;Maikel Garcia&nbsp;and right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Seth Lugo&nbsp;have been named Royals Player and Pitcher of the Month, respectively, for June. The awards are determined by a local media vote.

Garcia slashed .296/.343/.490 (29-for-98) over 25 games last month and ranked 2nd among all Royals with 12 extra-base hits, including 8 doubles, 1 triple and 3 home runs. On June 18 against the Rangers in Arlington, he hit his 8th home run of the season, already establishing a new career high and passing his 7 home runs in 157 games last season. He recorded multiple hits in 9 of his 25 games in June, which tied for the 13th-most such games in the American League last month, trailing leader&nbsp;Yandy Díaz&nbsp;(14). Overall, Garcia is putting together one of the best seasons of his career, as he leads all Royals with 29 multi-hit efforts, which are tied for 3rd most in the American League, 5 such games behind leaders&nbsp;Jacob Wilson&nbsp;and&nbsp;Aaron Judge&nbsp;(34 each). He also ranks tied for 3rd in the AL with 22 doubles, 5th with a .309 batting average, 6th with 18 stolen bases and 96 hits and 12th with an .843 OPS. This marks the second straight monthly honor for Garcia, who in May ranked tied for 3rd in the American League with 37 hits.

Lugo finished the month of June with a 2-0 record and 1.26 ERA (4 ER in 28.2 IP) over 5 starts, which marked the 2nd-best ERA in the month of June in franchise history (min. 5 starts), trailing only&nbsp;Mark Gubicza&nbsp;(1.18) in 1988. Among the 111 Major League pitchers who made at least 5 starts last month, his ERA ranked 3rd behind Philadelphia’s&nbsp;Zack Wheeler&nbsp;(0.58) and Houston’s&nbsp;Hunter Brown&nbsp;(1.19). He held opponents to 2 runs or fewer in all 5 starts, including 1 or no runs allowed in 4 of those 5 outings. Lugo recorded 2 scoreless starts in June, which came against the two teams who faced off in the 2024 World Series, as he held the Yankees scoreless over 5.2 frames on June 12 in Kansas City, before tossing another 5.2 scoreless innings on June 28 vs. the reigning champion Dodgers. He tallied 31 strikeouts over his 28.2 innings (9.7 K/9), and his 27.4% strikeout rate was the 12th-highest mark in the American League, trailing leader&nbsp;Garrett Crochet&nbsp;(34.8%). With his dominant month, Lugo lowered his season ERA to 2.74 (27 ER in 88.2 IP), which is the 8th-lowest mark in the AL, trailing leader Brown (1.74). This unanimous selection marks Lugo’s fourth honor since signing as a free agent with Kansas City prior to the start of the 2024 season, as he won the award in three straight months from March/April-June last year, a season in which he finished as the runner up in the AL&nbsp;Cy Young&nbsp;Award voting.

Maikel Garcia, Seth Lugo Named Royals Player, Pitcher of the Month for June

SEATTLE (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Mariners/status/1940620263231836630">Julio Rodriguez hit a go-ahead RBI single in the seventh inning</a>&nbsp;and Randy Arozarena drove in two runs as the Seattle Mariners beat the Kansas City Royals 3-2 on Wednesday night.

Rodriguez, who left the bases loaded in the fifth inning, atoned for that missed opportunity by hitting a first-pitch cutter from reliever Steven Cruz, who entered for Angel Zerpa (3-1), to the left side. Royals third baseman Maikel Garcia got a piece of Rodriguez’s hit before it ricocheted past him, allowing the Mariners to take a 2-1 lead.

Arozarena, who hit a solo homer in the sixth inning, added an insurance run with a sacrifice fly to center in the seventh. The Mariners needed that extra run as the Royals closed within a run in the eighth inning on an RBI single from Salvador Perez.

Mariners reliever Carlos Vargas (3-5) struck out two in one inning of relieft and closer Andres Munoz picked up his 19th save.

With runners on first and third in the top of the first inning, Royals rookie right fielder Jac Caglianone lined out sharply to right. Kansas City scored just one run in the inning, but could have scored more had Caglianone's ball fallen for a hit.

<a href="https://x.com/Mariners/status/1940613533009694732">Arozarena has homered in three consecutive regular-season games for the first time in his major league career.</a>&nbsp;He also homered in three straight American League Division Series games with the Tampa Bay Rays from Oct. 5-7 in 2020.

Seattle RHP Bryan Woo (7-4, 2.93 ERA) goes against Kansas City RHP Seth Lugo (5-5, 2.74) in the finale of the four-game set.

⚾ Rodriguez go-ahead RBI single lifts the Mariners past Royals

TULSA, Okla. (July 1, 2025)—John Klein set the tone with five strong innings of one-run baseball in a 7-1 victory for the Wichita Wind Surge over the Tulsa Drillers at ONEOK Field. While jumping into the Top 5 in the Texas League in wins, he’d start a stretch of eight scoreless innings to put a cap on the sixth win for the Wind Surge in their last 10 games.&nbsp;

Damon Keith pushed a sacrifice fly to right field to get Tulsa on the board with a run scored in the bottom of the first. That would be the only run the Drillers would put up all night, as the starter Klein earned the win after giving up the earned run on four hits with a walk and four strikeouts over five frames.&nbsp;

Wichita put up four runs in the top of the second inning. Kyler Fedko slid in safely at the plate after a rundown ensued between first and second to tie the game. Kaelen Culpepper singled to left to bring around Ben Ross to give the Wind Surge the lead. Culpepper and Gabby Gonzalez later scored on a bases-loaded infield error off the bat of Walker Jenkins.&nbsp;

Jorel Ortega went the opposite way for a solo home run, his eighth of the season, in the top of the fourth. Ricardo Olivar added on with a two-run single to left before the stretch in the seventh to make the score 7-1 Wichita, which would become the future final.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cole Percival and Michael Martinez combined to no-hit Tulsa over the final four innings out of the Wind Surge bullpen. Each of the righthanders struck out three men each to get the Wichita staff to 10 punchouts on the night in the series opener.

Wichita Takes Series Opener In Tulsa

SEATTLE (AP) — Salvador Perez&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1940245133385244693">hit a pivotal two-run double</a>&nbsp;in the fifth inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Seattle Mariners 6-3 on Tuesday night for just their second win in 10 games.

Perez lofted a fly ball off Emerson Hancock (3-5) that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-perez-rodriguez-1fe79b9c6a1547e0a59408cf7e58596e">center fielder Julio Rodríguez lost in the twilight sky</a>&nbsp;and dropped for a two-run double. Rodríguez climbed the center-field wall, trying to rob a home run, but he misjudged the ball and it bounced to the wall as the Royals took a 5-1 lead.

<a href="https://x.com/Mariners/status/1940247146802135189">Ben Williamson hit an RBI double in the bottom half and scored on J.P. Crawford's single</a>&nbsp;off Michael Lorenzen.

Five relievers combined for 4 1/3 scoreless innings of one-hit relief. Lucas Erceg (3-2) entered with two on in the seventh and got a double-play grounder and a groundout, and Carlos Estévez pitched a perfect ninth for his 23rd save in 26 chances.

Kansas City built a 3-0 lead on Maikel Garcia's run-scoring single in the first and a two-run second that included an RBI double by Nick Loftin, who scored when Kyle Isbel grounded into a forceout.

Randy Arozarena homered in the bottom half, his 11th this season and third in four at-bats.

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