UPCOMING GAMES: Softball: Salina Central &amp; South at the Class 5A Regional - Continuous coverage begins at 2:00pm

UPCOMING GAMES: Softball: Chapman Irish at the Class 4A Regional - Continuous coverage begins at approx. 4:10pm

↓Minneapolis Softball at the 3A Regional - 5/19

High School Sports LIVE STREAMS

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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

OTTAWA COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 10:30p.m. Tuesday in Ottawa County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Honda HR-V driven by&nbsp;Khiet Thanh&nbsp; Le, 36, Lincoln, Nebraska, was southbound on US 81 Highway one half mile south of Rifle Road.

The SUV entered the median, traveled for an extended period in the grass before the driver overcorrected.&nbsp; The vehicle traveled across both southbound lanes, entered the west ditch, crossed over a cement drainage and went airborne.&nbsp; The Honda landed and started to turn to the left, went sideways and rolled.

EMS transported Le and a passenger Thi N. A.&nbsp;Pham, 31, Lincoln, Nebraska, to Salina Regional Health Center. Both were wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

2 hospitalized in Salina after violent rollover crash

Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas

In the wake of the devastating tornado that struck Grinnell and surrounding areas of western Kansas, Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas is actively providing both emergency relief and long-term recovery support to affected families. Thanks to the generosity of donors contributing to Catholic Charities’ Disaster Relief Fund—and a $25,000 grant from Catholic Charities USA—critical aid is already reaching those in need.

“We are incredibly grateful to Catholic Charities USA for this generous $25,000 grant, which will go directly toward helping the Grinnell community recover and rebuild,” said Megan Robl, Executive Director of Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas. “We’re also deeply thankful for the prayers and support of so many across the Salina Diocese. The road ahead is long, but we are committed to walking alongside this community for as long as we are needed—offering help, hope, and healing every step of the way.”

Later this week, Catholic Charities staff will return to Grinnell to assist families applying for financial assistance as the Red Cross opens the community’s resource coordination effort. This marks a critical step in connecting families with the funds and services they need to begin the rebuilding process.

Catholic Charities has received many inquiries about how individuals can support the Grinnell relief efforts. Here are the best ways to help:

Gifts to the&nbsp;Disaster Relief Fund&nbsp;enable Catholic Charities to respond quickly and compassionately, tailoring support to meet each family’s unique needs. Donations can be made online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.ccnks.org/disaster-relief">www.ccnks.org/disaster-relief</a>.

Essential supplies are being accepted at Catholic Charities offices in&nbsp;Hays, Salina, and Manhattan&nbsp;and will be delivered directly to families in Grinnell. Items most needed include:

Work gloves &amp; heavy-duty trash bags. Flashlights &amp; batteries. Dust masks. Storage tubs &amp; boxes. Cleaning supplies. Laundry detergent, toilet paper &amp; paper towels. Furniture &amp; household essentials. Clothing, towels, &amp; hygiene items. Visa, Walmart, Dillons, or gas gift cards

Cleanup efforts continue in Grinnell, especially in local parks and the cemetery. Volunteers should check in at the&nbsp;Grinnell VFW&nbsp;upon arrival.

If you or someone you know needs support following the storm, Catholic Charities is here to help. Call the&nbsp;Hays office&nbsp;at&nbsp;785-625-2644. Email:&nbsp;communications@ccnks.org. Fill out the online form at:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ccnks.org/disaster">www.ccnks.org/disaster</a>.

Meet with Catholic Charities staff when they are in Grinnell later this week

Catholic Charities remains committed to standing with the Grinnell community throughout the recovery process. As our response continues to evolve, we will share updates—including details on when our staff will be in Grinnell next—on our social media pages.

Media Contact:&nbsp;Jeree Hughbanks, Communications Manager, 785-825-0208,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jhughbanks@ccnks.org">jhughbanks@ccnks.org</a>, Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas

Catholic Charities responds to Grinnell tornado and shares how the public can help

The beloved Kanopolis Drive-In theater will be reopening this weekend, but back better than ever.

On Friday, May 23rd the drive-in will reopen after being closed since the fall of 2024. Jessica Eagle and her husband Tyson Moyer purchased the drive-in, after it was sold last fall. New owners, means new things and the couple decided to renovate the drive-in.

According to Eagle, they have upgraded the concession stand/snack bar, audio SFX, internet speed/connection and have added more bathrooms. These are not the only renovations that took place, but Eagle commented they plan on adding and upgrading more to the theater in the future.

"This is a hidden gem that we want people to know about. This space provides a great environment for families and that is what it's all about," said Eagle.

The Kanopolis Drive-In theater reopens this Friday. For more information go to,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kanopolisdrivein.com/">https://www.kanopolisdrivein.com/</a>&nbsp;and Facebook page:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kanopolis.in">https://www.facebook.com/kanopolis.in</a>

Kanopolis Drive-In brings new additions and upgrades for its reopening this weekend

A release was sent out to all Salina USD 305 parents and guardians, regarding someone needing&nbsp; "emergency assistance." Salina USD 305 posted the following statement:

Today, May 20, at Central High School, an individual required emergency assistance. Emergency personnel were called and they addressed the issue. Students were kept in their classrooms for a short time to keep halls clear for emergency personnel. Emergency vehicles and services were present to provide support for the medical emergency.

There was no school safety issue. Our school schedule was not affected and student learning continues as normal.

USD 305 issues statement regarding an emergency incident that occurred at Central

St. John's Missionary Baptist Church in Salina, will continue in offering their annual free summer camps and programs for children this year.

According to Senior Pastor Dr. Allen Smith, St. John's will offer their food program, "Camp HYPE," "MADD Camp," "Vacation Bible School (VBS)" and a new mentoring program, "Hope in 3-D (date pending)."

Each camp and program provides learning resources, food and activities for children ages 1-18 (with the exception of Hope in 3-D) to enjoy throughout the summer. Breakfast and lunch will be served during each camp/program, free of charge.

The summer food program starts on Tuesday, May 27th - Thursday, July 31st. Free meals will be served at St. John's on 215 S. Chicago St. and at the Salina Public Library 301 W. Elm St.

Monday - Friday,&nbsp;lunch will be served at St. John's (215 S. Chicago)&nbsp;from 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm. Monday - Friday, lunch will be served at Salina Public Library (301 W. Elm)&nbsp;from 11:30 am - 12:30 pm.

Fridays only, dinner will be served in bulk at the Old Western Sizzlin Building (1708 W. Crawford) from 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm.

Camp HYPE starts on Monday, June 9th - Friday, June 20th. This camp helps the youth understand resources that are available in the community. Agencies/organizations such as, Law Enforcement, Boys &amp; Girls Club, Boy &amp; Girl Scouts, Salina Arts &amp; Humanities, etc. will educate children about the resources they offer.

MADD (music, art, dance and drama) camp starts on Monday, July 7th - Friday, July 18th.&nbsp;

VBS will occur on Monday, July 28th - Wednesday, July 30th.&nbsp;

Hope in 3-D,&nbsp;for children ages 10-18 is undecided on a date. Dr. Smith encourages parents to call at&nbsp;785-827-7082,&nbsp;to register their child.

"We care about kids. Our goal is to create a safe space for kids, expand learning opportunities, fight hunger and invest in the future of our generation," said Dr. Smith. "Kids learn better when they eat well and get in less trouble when they have structured activities."

For more information and to register your child for the camps, go to:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stjohnsmbc.com/new_2025_enrollment_forms__summer_camps_camp_hype__madd_camp_duplicate">http://www.stjohnsmbc.com/new_2025_enrollment_forms__summer_camps_camp_hype__madd_camp_duplicate</a>

St. John's offering free summer camps, programs and food for children 

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: Probation Violation

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

NAME:&nbsp;Smith-Love, Leon Dawayne

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

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

Saline County Jail Bookings, May 20

A friend of a Kansas teen's family who lost their son to a tragic accident, has started a go fund me fundraiser to help raise money for funeral costs.

Nathaniel B. Dold, passed away at age 18 on a Kansas highway in Ellsworth County on Thursday, May 15th. A friend of Nathaniel's family,&nbsp;Erin Rogers started a go fund me to help mitigate the unexpected financial obligations put on the Dold family.

Rogers left a statement on the go fund me page.

"My name is Erin Rogers, and I am a friend and fellow co-worker of DeeDee. As you are aware, they tragically lost their child, Nathaniel Dold, in a motor vehicle accident on May 15th. Due to the unexpected financial obligations that this kind of situation can incur, we are asking for donations for this family to raise money for funeral costs. This way, they can just focus on family during this trying time. Anything helps. Thank you in advance."

To donate to the Dold family, go to:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-dold-family-donations">https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-dold-family-donations</a>

Friend of a late Kansas teen's family starts go fund me fundraiser

The Smoky Hill River Festival Medallion Quest will begin this Wednesday, which marks the official countdown to the Smoky Hill River Festival.

Beginning in 2009, the Medallion Quest brings the community together to celebrate the arts in a creative and connected way. Over the years, families and friends have searched side by side, solved riddles, and endeavored to find the Medallion.

The first Medallion Quest clue will be shared live from the steps of the Smoky Hill Museum at 211 West Iron Ave., at 4:00 pm on Wednesday, May 21st.&nbsp;After that day, two different Festival Medallion Quest clues will be provided daily at 7:30 am and 4:30 pm until the Medallion is found.

There is no cost to participate in Festival Medallion Quest. All ages are welcome to participate. Participants must be 18 years of age to claim any prize.&nbsp;

The Festival Medallion Quest 2025 prize package includes, $1,000 in cash, $2,000 in festival gift certificates, (to be used for purchases in the Fine Art and Craft Show or Art/Craft demonstration area during the festival weekend). Four complimentary festival admission wristbands, one on-grounds festival parking pass (weather permitting), an invitation for four to attend the evening premiere Art Patron Party on Thursday, June 12th and 4 Smoky Hill River Festival t-shirts.

“The Festival Medallion Quest is the perfect way to kick off the festival season,” says Smoky Hill River Festival Director Brad Anderson. “Thousands of searchers get to see the town with new eyes as they interpret clues and get creative trying to find the Medallion.”

Since the Medallion Quest’s inception, thousands have taken part. The Medallion is a unique object designed each year by an artist. The custom-designed Medallion looks different each time. It has been made from wood, paper, clay, resin, or plastic to resemble a wide variety of objects to ensure a challenging hunt.

The Medallion will be hidden on public property within the Salina city limits, which may include city parks. Curfew hours for all city parks remain in effect during the Quest and are posted at each park. It will not be hidden at Kenwood or Oakdale Parks, on private property, or on Salina Airport Authority property. 

Locating the Medallion does not require the destruction of property. All clues and notifications will be posted on the Festival Medallion Quest and Smoky Hill River Festival websites, through participating local media partners, and physically outside the west entrance of the Salina Arts &amp; Humanities Office at 211 West Iron Ave.

For more information on the Festival Medallion Quest or the Smoky Hill River Festival, call 785-309-5770, visit <a href="http://festivalmedallionquest.com">festivalmedallionquest.com</a>, <a href="http://riverfestival.com">riverfestival.com</a>, or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SHRiverFestival">Facebook.com/SHRiverFestival</a>.

To see the Medallion Quest rules, go to:&nbsp;<a href="http://festivalmedallionquest.com./">festivalmedallionquest.com.</a>

The 16th annual River festival's "Medallion Quest" kicks off this Wednesday: What to know

Director of Mobility Management for North Central Kansas

OCCK, Inc. Transportation will be closed on Monday, May 26, 2025, in observation of Memorial Day.&nbsp;

No vehicles will run on Monday, May 26, 2025, including Paratransit vans and buses, as well as Salina CityGo buses, 81 Connection buses and GoAbilene, GoConcordia, KanConnect, and OCCK OnDemand vehicles.&nbsp;

Transportation services will resume operating hours on Tuesday, May 27th.&nbsp;

OCCK, Inc. provides services in north central Kansas to anyone with any type of long or short-term disability, starting as early as birth and following people through their whole lives.&nbsp;

 OCCK provides an array of supports for success at home and in the community, including independent living skills and supports, employment and career training, Alzheimer’s supports, autism services, assistive technology, children’s services, transportation, specialized therapies, and home health care.

OCCK is committed to providing transportation services to the general public, seniors, and persons with disabilities, through a variety of programs, including a fixed route service in Salina, CityGo, a regional paratransit service that serves fourteen counties, non emergency medical transportation for people with Medicaid, as well as non emergency medical transportation for clients of Salina Regional Health Center, a regional fixed route service, 81 Connection, KANcycle – the regional bike sharing program, GoAbilene public transportation, GoConcordia public transportation, KanConnect fixed route, and the newest program, OCCK OnDemand.

For more information about OCCK, Inc., visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.occk.com/">www.occk.com</a>.&nbsp; For more information about CityGo and OCCK Transportation, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.salinacitygo.com/">www.salinacitygo.com</a>. Or, contact the OCCK Transportation Center at 785-826-1583.

OCCK closing for Memorial Day, transportation services resume the following day

Another round of severe storms are predicted to occur for Salina and the Saline County area for Monday.

According to the National Weather Service, severe storms are likely for this afternoon and evening on Monday. It has been issued that wind gusts can get as high as 25 mph. Large hail, damaging winds and a few tornadoes are possible, primarily along and east of I-135.

Residents should remain alert and take necessary precaution as needed for dangerous weather conditions.

Eagle radio/media stations&nbsp;99.9FM KSKG&nbsp;and&nbsp;910AM/107.5FM KINA&nbsp;will be giving live updates if necessary.

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Likelihood for another round of severe storms for the Salina/Saline County area

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

On Tuesday, the Abilene baseball team did it again.

Despite being on the road and underdogs in not one, but two regional games, the Cowboys came from seemingly out of nowhere to punch their ticket back to the 4A state tournament in Salina next week.

Abilene defeated Concordia 7-3 before stunning the hosts in Pratt by a final score of 4-2.

4A regional quarterifinal: Abilene 7, Concordia 3

First up was a Concordia team that swept the Cowboys earlier this season, but Abilene would have its revenge, rallying to put the game away late.

In the bottom of the third, Concordia doubled to take a 3-1 lead, but the Cowboys quickly overturned their advantage in the top of the fourth when Thomas Keener drove in two runs with a bases-clearing RBI single.

That lead would be the only one the Panthers would ever hold as in the top of the sixth, Abilene added three more, including two on a hard-hit Jake Bartley single.

On the hill, Thomas Keener went the distance, ensuring Concordia never sniffed another run. Keener finished the day surrendering just three runs and one walk, striking out two.

4A regional semifinal: Abilene 4, Pratt 2

At 22-4, Pratt looked like a buzzsaw coming into their own home regional, but Jake Bartley and the Abilene defense quieted the green giant, putting the Greenbacks’ hopes of another state title run to rest.

The Cowboys struck first in this game when Heath Hoekman drove in Thomas Keener on an RBI single in the top of the first.

Pratt would respond with two runs of their own in the bottom of the frame, and for a while both offenses struggled to score, but in the top of the sixth, Thomas Keener bolted home on a passed ball to re-deliver a 2-1 lead to Abilene.

The Cowboys added two more runs in the top of the seventh thanks to a sac bunt and a Levi Evans RBI single, and once again, the pitching was ready to slam the door shut.

This time, it was Jake Bartley’s time to go the distance, allowing just two runs and two walks in a complete game effort where he struck out four and surrendered just six hits.

The Cowboys will head to Salina for the 4A state tournament, joining McPherson, Mulvane, Clay Center, Paola and Rock Creek, who all punched their tickets today with two wins of their own. 

⚾️ Abilene pulls off two upsets to win regional, return to 4A state tournament

The Southeast of Saline softball postseason began right where the regular season ended, with a pair of victories over Herington and Council Grove to advance the Lady Trojans to the regional championship game.

SES will face Silver Lake in Osage City on Thursday at 5:00 for a ticket to this year’s 3A state tournament.

3A regional quarterifinal: SE of Saline 16, Herington 0

The opening round of this year’s regional bracket was pure domination for the Lady Trojans, who scored eight runs in the first and second, never needing to bat in the third inning to clear the first hurdle.

The top of the Southeast’s lineup raked in this game, as Reese Heinrich, Kyiah Samuelson and Abby Wyatt combined to hit 6-7 with 9 RBI on the day.

In the circle, Carlee Dye dominated, striking out five and issuing zero walks as part of a one-hit shutout.

3A regional semifinal: SE of Saline 5, Council Grove 2

Game two of Tuesday’s doubleheader was far from as straightforward as Council Grove put up a good fight in a low-scoring affair.

Neither team put a single run on the board until the bottom of the fifth, when the Lady Trojans finally scratched across a pair of runs.

Southeast followed that up with two more in the sixth, and by the time Council Grove got on the board, it was too late as SES survived and advanced 5-2.

This time around, Reese Heinrich and Emma Zurfluh were the only Lady Trojans with an RBI, as SES capitalized on five different Council Grove errors in the field.

In the circle, Karlee Zurfluh shut down the Lady Braves, racking up 13 strikeouts and allowing just two unearned runs on four hits in a complete game effort that saw her issue zero walks.

The Lady Trojans will travel to Osage City this Thursday to battle Silver Lake, who defeated St. Mary’s 11-0 and Riley County 11-0, at 5:00.

🥎 SES advances to regional final with pair of Tuesday wins

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Hayden Birdsong threw five sharp innings in his first start of the season and the San Francisco Giants beat the Kansas City Royals 3-2 on Tuesday night.

Birdsong (2-0) was moved from the bullpen to the rotation in place of Jordan Hicks and provided just what manager Bob Melvin hoped he would deliver when he made the move.

Birdsong allowed one unearned run, five hits and no walks to give the Giants their fourth win in the last five games.

Ryan Walker pitched the ninth for his ninth save in 11 chances.

Willy Adames hit an RBI triple in the fourth inning against Michael Lorenzen (3-5) and scored on a single by Casey Schmitt to give San Francisco a 2-1 lead.

Lorenzen allowed three runs — two earned — and seven hits in 4 2/3 innings in his shortest start of the season for Kansas City.

Kyle Isbel hit a sacrifice fly in the third and Bobby Witt Jr. had a run-scoring infield single in the eighth for the Royals, who have been held to four runs or fewer in 42 of 50 games.

The Giants added an insurance run in the fifth after Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino threw wildly to second when he tried to get a force on a grounder by Wilmer Flores. Jung Hoo Lee followed with an RBI single to make it 3-1.

San Francisco improved to 25-9 this season against right-handed starters.

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