High School Sports LIVE STREAMS

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

For Kansas road conditions check out the <a href="http://Kandrive.gov">Kandrive.gov </a>map.

Travel should be limited to emergencies. If you must travel, ensure you have a winter survival kit and stay with your vehicle if stranded. Carry an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. For up-to-date road conditions, call 511.&nbsp;

Stay tuned to Salina Post for weather updates and safety information.

&nbsp;As local organizations plan to change their schedules for inclement weather, Salina Post wants to remind you that the easiest way to get your event on our cancellation list is to email newstips@salinapost.com

We will post the cancellations or postponements here.

The “Emergency Accident Reporting Plan” has been implemented due to severe weather and/or hazardous driving conditions as the number of motor vehicle accidents exceeds the Department’s ability to respond in a timely manner.

Eligible accidents: Any non-hit and run, non-personal injury motor vehicle accident that does not require towing, and does not involve alcohol or drugs.

Driver requirements: Exchange personal information with the other driver(s) involved or property owner.

Complete an Emergency Accident Reporting Plan accident report form as completely as possible and mail or deliver the completed report to the Salina Police Department within 48 hours.

Emergency Accident Reporting Plan forms are available at the Salina Police Department. They are also available on-line at https://www.salina-ks.gov/police by selecting the Emergency Accident Report Form.

The local media will be notified when the Emergency Accident Reporting Plan has ended.

 USD 306 went ahead and closed for today. Campus is closed with no activities. 

Salina USD 305 is canceled for Friday, January 10. This is due to new and expected snow accumulation on top of existing conditions. We appreciate everyone's patience as we work through continuing weather challenges.

Sacred Heart vs. Beloit-St. John’s has been postponed, with a make-up date to be determined.

Salina Central’s games with Andover have also been postponed, with a make-up date to be determined.

Salina South’s games at Campus will be split, with the girls’ game set for Monday, January 27, and the boys’ game scheduled for Friday, January 31.

Abilene’s games with Halstead have been rescheduled for January 28.

Chapman’s games with Marysville have been postponed to February 3.

Southeast vs. Minneapolis has been postponed, with a make-up date to be determined.

The TMP vs. Sacred Heart game has been postponed, with a make-up date to be determined.

Southeast of Saline’s contests with Sacred Heart have been rescheduled for January 13.

Salina South vs. Hutchinson has been postponed, with a make-up date to be determined.

Chapman vs. Concordia has been rescheduled for January 28.

The Salina Food Bank will be closed Friday, Jan. 10.

Transportation is announcing service changes for CityGo because of winter weather for Friday, January 10, 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp; Rolling Hills Zoo will RE-OPEN&nbsp;on Saturday, January 11th.&nbsp;&nbsp; The Wildlife Museum will open&nbsp;at 9 a.m.&nbsp;and the Zoo will open&nbsp;at Noon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

UPDATED: NWS 2025 Winter Storm, USD 305 cancels school Friday 

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!

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

Mid-November marks the peak of the deer rut season, a time when deer are more active as they search for mates, increasing the likelihood of vehicle collisions. Since November 11, the Saline County Sheriff’s Office has responded to 11 deer-related crashes, with only one resulting in minor injuries, according to Saline County Sheriff's Office Operations Captain Jim Hughes.

It is important not to swerve to avoid hitting a deer, as that can result in a more serious crash, potentially involving other vehicles or objects off the road.

Drivers are advised to reduce speed in areas where deer are commonly seen, especially at dawn and dusk, and to use high beams when appropriate to improve visibility.

Always wear your seatbelt and ensure children are in appropriate safety seats. Use bright headlights when there is no oncoming traffic, and scan for the reflective eyes of deer along the roadway.

Saline Co. Sheriff's Office urges caution during deer season

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

Kansas Highway Patrol It’s a busy time for farmers in Kansas with fall harvest underway. The Kansas Highway Patrol would like to remind motorists to use more caution and patience when traveling around farm trucks, tractors, combines, and other implements.

“As the busy farming season is underway, each traveler in Kansas needs to be more aware of increased farm implement and truck traffic,” said Captain Candice Breshears. “In Kansas, we have many trucks exiting and entering the roadways at any given time. Traveling around these vehicles requires extra caution.”

Most farm equipment is not designed to travel at highway speeds and may only travel 15-25 mph. Farm equipment is often wider than the lane of traffic, so extra room should be allowed when sharing the road. Caution should be practiced on all roads, but especially on busy rural roads with unmarked intersections.

Don’t assume the farmer knows you’re there.

Although most farmers regularly check for vehicles behind them, the majority of their focus must be spent looking ahead to stay on the road and watch for oncoming traffic. Implements are very loud, hindering their ability to hear your vehicle.

Don’t pass unless you can see clearly ahead of both your vehicle and the equipment you are passing. If there are curves or hills blocking your view, wait until you can clearly visualize the area you are passing in. You should not pass in a designated “No Passing Zone,” even if you are stuck behind a farm vehicle. Do not pass if you are within 100 feet of any intersection, railroad grade crossing, bridge, elevated structure, or tunnel.

When a farm vehicle pulls to the right side of the road, it does not mean it is turning right or allowing you to pass.

Due to the size of some farm equipment, the farmer must execute wide left turns, so allow it plenty of room and time to turn and remain aware of any potential driveway or field they may be turning into.

Don’t assume that a farmer can move aside to let you pass. Shoulders may be soft, wet, or steep, which can cause the farm vehicle to tip, or the shoulder may not support the weight of a heavy farm vehicle. They understand you are being delayed and will move over at the first safe location available.

Think of the slow-moving vehicle emblem as a warning to adjust your speed.

When you see the slow-moving vehicle emblem, immediately slow down. While the emblems are visible from a long distance, it is difficult to judge the speed at which you are closing in on the vehicle, especially at night.

When you are not focused solely on the road, you increase your chances of a collision, especially if you should come upon a slow-moving farm vehicle.

KHP: Extra caution needed on Kansas roads during harvest

24/7 Travel Store is excited to kick off our 7th annual Food Bank Fill-Up campaign, “Driving Out Hunger. Together.” This month-long effort, which runs through September, will help local food banks across Kansas by matching donations up to $3,000 per store.

“At 24/7 Travel Store, giving back is a big part of who we are,” said Ted Augustine, President of 24/7 Travel Store. “Our Food Bank Fill-Up is a powerful way for us to team up with our customers and help those in need right here in our local communities. We’re grateful for the support we see each year and are proud to continue this tradition.”

The highlight of this year’s campaign is our “Hunger Action Day” event on Saturday, September 21, 2024. Food Bank representatives will be on-site at each of our stores, with times varying by location, to engage with customers and educate them on the available food bank services. They will also explain how the funds raised will be used and encourage individuals to give. On this day, we’ll also be accepting food donations in addition to monetary contributions.

The campaign has garnered strong support year after year, and Jackie Hynes, Director of Marketing at 24/7 Travel Store, is looking forward to this year’s efforts. "This will be my third year coordinating the Food Bank Fill-Up, and I’m continually inspired by the dedication of our team and the generosity of our community," Hynes said. "Through this campaign, I’ve had the opportunity to learn about the incredible work our Kansas food banks do, often relying solely on community support without access to state or grant funding. I’m proud of the efforts we all put in to support such a tremendous need and make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most."

We invite everyone to join us on September 21 and throughout the month to support this important cause. Whether by donating or simply spreading the word, every action counts. For more information, including event details and how to get involved, visit 24-7stores.com/news or check out our Facebook page.

Proudly Supporting These Kansas Food Banks Abilene Area Food &amp; Clothing Bank (Abilene) • Community Care Ministries (Maple Hill) • Genesis Food Pantry of Sherman County (Goodland) • Genesis Food Pantry of Thomas County (Colby) • McPherson County Food Bank (McPherson) • Russell County Food Pantry (Russell) • Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank (Salina) • Trego County Food Pantry (WaKeeney)

24/7 Travel Store launches 7th-annual food bank fill-up

Precipitation data courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/">CoCoRaHS</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">The National Weather Service</a>.

Following precipitation events, Salina Post will update this page with precipitation totals.&nbsp;

As of 08/01/2024 at 8:22 a.m.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/515dcf98-45ad-4e68-b2a2-ed8218a2c9e7">UPDATED: Thousands of Salinans left without power after severe thunderstorm</a>

CoCoRaHS 24-hour rain totals

Kansas is turning 164 years old this year, and the Smoky Hill Museum plans to offer a FREE public celebration&nbsp;on Saturday, February 1, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.&nbsp;

The whole family can enjoy learning how to make butter and shell corn at the Kansas Day Open House and Birthday Bash. Plus, there will be make-and-take crafts and delicious birthday cupcakes. Also, be sure to stop by the Museum Store&nbsp;for a wide variety of regional and Kansas products, local artwork and gifts for all ages.

The Smoky Hill Museum is a nationally accredited history museum in downtown Salina, Kansas. This FREE museum is open Tuesdays- Fridays 11-5 and Saturdays 10-5.&nbsp;

For needed accommodations, please call Nona Miller at&nbsp;309-5776&nbsp;between the hours of&nbsp;8:00 a.m.&nbsp;and&nbsp;5:00 p.m.&nbsp; Every effort will be made to accommodate known disabilities. For material or speech access, please call at least five working days prior to the event.

Smoky Hill Museum invites public to Kansas Day celebration

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;Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant, Speeding; maximum limits and Transporting an open container

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

Saline County Jail Bookings, Jan. 22

Disney in Concert: Once Upon a Time, featuring the Salina Symphony, is coming to the Stiefel Theatre Sat., March 1, at 7 p.m.

Experience iconic songs from your favorite Disney movies live with the Salina Symphony. Brought to life by the talents of four Broadway caliber singers and featuring clips from the original films, Disney in Concert: Once Upon a Time features beloved music from Encanto, Frozen, Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, The Little Mermaid, Tangled, The Lion King and more. Fun for the whole family!

Tickets start at $45 for adults ($30 for children/students) and may be purchased at the Stiefel Theatre Box Office, by calling 785-827-1998 or online at salinasymphony.org. Salina Symphony family concerts are recommended for children ages 3+. Child/student tickets must be purchased at the Stiefel Theatre Box Office.

The Salina Symphony is dedicated to enriching lives through artistic music performance and education. For more information, contact Adrienne Allen at (785) 823-8309 or visit <a href="http://salinasymphony.org">salinasymphony.org</a>.

Disney in Concert with Salina Symphony at the Stiefel Theatre March 1

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

Saline County appraiser points to inconsistency in state law regarding trailer usage

TOPEKA — Saline County Appraiser Sean Robertson touted a bill exempting off-road vehicles as well as boats and trailers from personal property tax in Kansas by outlining the distinction in state law between usage of a trailer for hauling hay to a barn and junk to a landfill.

Robertson, who represents the Kansas County Appraiser’s Association, said the legislation endorsed by two-thirds of the Senate would address unfairness in application of property taxes in Kansas.

He offered an example involving three people who owned the same trailer. The first hauled hay with the trailer, and wasn’t subject to property taxes for that equipment. Same for the second purchaser, who relied on the trailer to haul mowers for a landscaping business. The third, who relied on the trailer for a variety of uses around the home, wasn’t as fortunate.

“If you use it to haul an old couch to the dump, you pay taxes,” Robertson said. “That’s some of the inconsistency.”

On Tuesday, the Senate Assessment and Taxation Committee gathered testimony on Senate Bill 10. It would slash state and local tax revenue by adding exemptions to the dreaded property tax. Exclusions would be for any off-road vehicle not operated on a highway, including motorcycles, snowmobiles, golf carts, all-terrain vehicles and electric-assisted bicycles. Qualifying trailers would need to have a gross weight of less than 15,000 pounds. Also exempted would be watercraft, including the trailers used to launch, transport and store boats.

If implemented as introduced, the bill would apply to the 2026 tax year. The measure would reduce general state property tax revenue by $190,000 and trim property taxes collected for K-12 public schools by $2.5 million annually.

The Kansas Department of Revenue didn’t offer an estimate of how much the change would lower tax collections among local government. The Kansas Association of Counties and League of Kansas Municipalities said local property tax collections would decline, but neither had data to make a precise estimate.

The schedule for the second week of the legislative session allowed the committee to begin consideration of amendments to the bill on Wednesday, said Sen. Caryn Tyson, a Parker Republican and chair of the Senate tax committee. She credited Robertson for bringing common-sense legislation on property taxes to the Capitol.

Hesston Sen. Stephen Owens, a Republican on the committee and owner of a powersports business, suggested lawmakers also delete property tax on leisure aircraft. Currently, Kansas aircraft was exempted from property tax if tied to a business purpose, was more than 30 years of age or built from a kit.

“Southcentral Kansas bills itself as the air capital of the world. Was there any discussion of exempting personal-use aircraft from property taxes as well?” he said.

Robertson said he wouldn’t object to a blanket exemption for aircraft based in Kansas, and the committee was likely to consider that as an amendment to the bill.

Sen. Mary Ware, D-Wichita, said the Senate committee ought to be focused on reducing the property tax burden for lower-income Kansans rather than coming to the aid of people financially comfortable enough to afford recreational vehicles.

“We have so many people living in poverty in our state,” Ware told Robertson. “Is there any room for that in your proposal?”

Robertson said there was potential for local governments to reduce property tax levies once they no longer had to expend resources to monitor taxation of off-road trailers, motorcycles, ATVs, golf carts and comparable vehicles.

Kari Sue Vosburgh, a Republican precinct committee member in Sedgwick County, echoed Ware’s sentiment. Vosburgh said she opposed the bill because the 2025 Legislature should make it a priority to provide substantial residential property tax relief.

She said it made sense to exempt essential equipment such as motorized wheelchairs, but including luxury or recreational&nbsp; items was misguided.

“It is concerning that this bill prioritizes tax exemptions for recreational property, effectively selecting winners and losers in tax relief efforts,” she said. “While my horse trailer might qualify for exemption under SB 10, I would rather see policies that address the broader issue of high real estate taxes that can threaten homeowners’ financial stability.”

Michael Kelly, who represented Kansas chapters of the Military Officers Association of America, requested the committee amend the bill so wheeled and seated mobility devices were on the list of property tax exemptions. The idea would be to diminish the tax applicable to veterans with medical conditions that compromised their mobility, he said.

Kansas Senate bill exempts off-road vehicles, boats and trailers from property taxes

By JASON GRAVES K-State Research and Extension Central District&nbsp;Horticulturist

Winter is the perfect time to plan your garden and explore new tomato varieties. Each year, the Central Kansas District Extension Master Gardeners participate in a statewide trial organized by K-State Research and Extension, testing new tomato varieties alongside trusted favorites. The 2024 trial results provide valuable insight into which varieties can thrive in Kansas’s unique climate.

Determinate tomatoes are perfect for gardeners seeking a concentrated harvest for preserving or sharing. These varieties stay compact, grow to a set size, and produce fruit within a shorter time frame, making them ideal for those wanting a manageable, high-yield crop.

The top three determinate varieties from the trial include&nbsp;Celebrity, which served as the trial check variety and emerged as the top performer with an impressive yield of 428 lbs. Renowned for its excellent disease resistance and medium-sized, flavorful fruit, Celebrity is a reliable choice for both fresh eating and preserving.

Close behind was&nbsp;Grand Marshall, which produced 395 lbs. of slightly larger fruits, averaging 8–12 ounces. Combining high yield, outstanding flavor, and robust disease resistance, Grand Marshall is an excellent option to consider for gardeners who value both quality and quantity in their harvest.

Florida 91, a heat-set determinate variety, delivered a solid 384 lbs. during the trial. Its ability to pollinate at slightly higher temperatures than other varieties allow it to withstand hot conditions and still provide consistent production.&nbsp; This resilience makes it a dependable choice for gardeners preparing for the heatwaves of Kansas summers.

For gardeners who enjoy fresh tomatoes all season long, indeterminate varieties are an excellent choice. These plants grow larger, produce continuously, and provide a steady harvest over time.

Loki, a new variety in the 2024 trial, was the top performer, delivering an impressive yield of 443 lbs. of medium-sized fruits averaging 6–8 ounces. With vigorous growth, high yields, and consistently excellent fruit quality, Loki is a nice option for those seeking extended production throughout the growing season.

Jetstar, the trial’s check variety, produced 426 lbs. of 10-ounce fruits. Renowned for its outstanding flavor, attractive appearance, and strong disease resistance, Jetstar remains a trusted favorite among Central Kansas gardeners, providing dependable performance year after year.

Rubee Dawn&nbsp;also impressed during the 2024 trial, yielding 326 lbs. of 4–6-ounce fruits. Its steady production and reliable fruit quality make it another nice choice for gardeners seeking a consistent supply of fresh tomatoes throughout the season.

When choosing tomato varieties for your 2025 garden, consider your goals. If you want a high-yielding crop for preserving or canning, determinate varieties like Celebrity and Grand Marshall are ideal. For a steady supply of fresh tomatoes, indeterminate varieties such as Loki and Jetstar are better suited. Growing a mix of both types of tomatoes can provide the benefits of concentrated and continuous harvests.

For the complete results of the 2024 tomato trial, visit the K-State Research and Extension Central Kansas District Lawn and Garden Blog at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.ckdgardens.com/">www.ckdgardens.com</a>.

To set yourself up for success, start tomato seeds indoors by mid-to-late March. This allows seedlings 6-8 weeks to develop before outdoor planting. Gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions by hardening them off. Once the soil has warmed, apply mulch to regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and suppress weeds. Using drip irrigation can reduce disease risk by keeping foliage dry. Be vigilant about pests like hornworms and spider mites, and address issues promptly to protect your plants.

With the right varieties and proper care, your 2025 tomato garden can be both productive and rewarding. These trial-tested varieties are excellent choices to consider including in your planting plan.

GRAVES: Tomato varieties to try in 2025

A Salina man was arrested Sunday night after damaging a police car during an unrelated disturbance at the Hastings Motel, 217 South Broadway Avenue in Salina.

According to Salina Police Captain James Feldman, SPD officers were initially called to the motel around 8:30 p.m. for a disturbance between two 40-year-old residents. The dispute involved accusations of prior vehicle damage and claims that each party was armed, though it was later determined that only one subject was armed with a torch lighter. No charges were filed in connection with the incident.

"While officers were investigating this incident, a resident of the motel, identified as Ricky L. Hall, a 61-year-old Salina resident, had been in the parking lot yelling and cursing at officers," Feldman said. "He was not involved in the original call, but as an officer investigating the disturbance was speaking with hotel employees in the office, he heard loud banging and went outside and observed Hall with a logging chain striking the hood of a police car."

The officer intervened, ordering Hall to the ground at taser point. Hall complied and was taken into custody without further incident.

The hood and windshield of the police car sustained damage, estimated at $4,000. Hall was booked into the Saline County Jail on a charge of felony damage to property.

Salina man arrested for allegedly damaging police car with log chain

Lieutenant Sean Kochanowski told Salina Post this morning that the Citizen's Academy, originally scheduled to begin on February 19, 2025, has been canceled due to insufficient enrollment. He said plans are underway to reschedule the program for this fall pending an increase in participation.&nbsp;

The original article first posted on Nov. 21

The Saline County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the Salina Police Department, is now accepting applications for the 2024 Citizen's Academy. Applications are open through January 17, and the first 30 participants will be admitted. The 11-week program begins February 19 and will meet every Wednesday evening.

The academy provides a unique opportunity for community members to gain insight into local law enforcement's daily operations and training. Participants will tour the sheriff's office, police department, and training center while learning about crash investigations, DUIs, crime scene investigations, K-9 units, drone operations, and more. Half the class will engage with the force-use simulator, while the other half will participate in mounted patrol sessions alternating weekly.

"They will learn more about what these guys are doing, how they're trained and why they do some of the things they do," Saline County Lieutenant Sean Kochanowski said. "You see things that come up in the news about this happened and that- 'Well, why did we do it that way?'&nbsp; It just gives them that basic knowledge of what their law enforcement officers do and why they do it."

Attendees will also hear from prosecutors, crisis intervention teams, and other law enforcement personnel to better understand the work and challenges faced by officers. The program is free and concludes with a graduation ceremony.

While the academy is geared toward individuals over 21, college students interested in criminal justice are encouraged to apply. Applications are available on the <a href="https://www.salinecountyks.gov/citizen-academy">Saline County Sheriff’s Office website</a>, at the sheriff's office,

800 E Pacific Avenue, or at the Salina Police Department,&nbsp;255 N Tenth Street.&nbsp;

UPDATED: Citizen's Academy canceled due to low enrollment

A 26-year-old Salina man was arrested Saturday night following an incident involving threats and a firearm at the Airliner Motel, 781 N. Broadway.

According to Salina Police Captain James Feldman, officers were dispatched to the motel around 10 p.m. after they received a report of three male subjects attempting to access a room and making threats. 

"Contact was made with the 57-year-old motel employee who reported two white males and a black male attempting to get into a room at the motel. When he confronted them, asking what they were doing, he was told they had gotten locked out," Feldman said. "The employee told them they were not registered to the room and needed to leave, or he would call the police. The subjects then threatened to beat him up and began to leave."

Shortly after arriving at the scene, SPD officers spotted a white male matching the description of one of the suspects. The individual fled on foot. 

SPD officers established a perimeter and located the suspect hiding under a vehicle in the 700 block of North 11th Street. He was taken into custody without incident. During the search, officers recovered a 9mm handgun and marijuana in the area.

The suspect, identified as Gunnerkye Rairden, of Salina was booked into the Saline County Jail on multiple charges, including interference with law enforcement, criminal possession of a firearm, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and criminal threat.

The investigation continued Sunday afternoon when officers located Sevijon Davis, who had a probation violation warrant, in the 800 block of North Fourth Street. 

Davis fled on foot but was apprehended in the 800 block of North Santa Fe Avenue. According to Feldman, Davis was wearing clothing that matched the description of another suspect involved in the threats at the Airliner Motel.

Davis was arrested on the warrant and an additional charge of criminal threat in connection with the motel incident. During his transport to the Saline County Jail, Davis allegedly threatened to shoot officers, resulting in further charges of criminal threat and interference.

Both suspects remain in custody, and the investigation into the incidents is ongoing.

Suspects arrested after threats, police chase near Salina motel

Help wanted: Join the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office as a Deputy Sheriff

Are you looking for a rewarding career in law enforcement? The Phillips County Sheriff’s Office is seeking dedicated and motivated individuals to join our team as Deputy Sheriffs. This role is essential for maintaining the safety and security of our rural community. As a Deputy Sheriff, you will be responsible for law enforcement duties, crime prevention, and providing a high level of service to the residents of Phillips County.

Patrol assigned areas to deter and detect criminal activity. Respond to emergency calls and incidents Conduct investigations and gather evidence Enforce local, state, and federal laws Provide community outreach and education &nbsp;Prepare detailed reports and testify in court as needed Collaborate with other law enforcement agencies

High school diploma or equivalent (college education preferred) Valid Kansas driver’s licenseStrong communication and interpersonal skills Ability to work effectively in a rural environment Commitment to integrity, professionalism, and community service

Starting salary of $18.98 per hour; certified deputies start at $19.98 per hour.. Health, dental, and vision insurance: $75 per person or $150 per couple. Deductible: $300 single, $600 family..

All equipment, firearms, and outer vest body armor provided

 Opportunities for professional development and advancement

 Abundant hunting and fishing opportunities in the area

A proactive agency that keeps up with technology, providing deputies the tools they need to excel

Active participation in local events and activities is encouraged

Interested candidates should submit a resume or application to:

Sheriff Kyle PinkertonPhillips County Sheriff’s Office301 State St, Phillipsburg, KS 67661

Email: <a>kyle.pinkerton@phillipsso.com</a>Phone: 785-543-6885

Phillips County Sheriff’s Office is an equal-opportunity employer. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals. Become a part of the Phillips County family and make a positive impact in our rural area!

Recent obituaries and service times

This afternoon, the 2025 Sterling Invitational will get underway as both Southeast of Saline basketball teams look for strong showings at their midseason tournaments.

The Invitational, which has been played since 1973 on the boys' side, and 2014 on the girls' side, has seen some of the best midseason basketball in the state of Kansas, and this year should be no exception, as SES, Sterling, Hugoton, Smoky Valley, Scott City, Lyons, Kingman, and Hutch Trinity all look to etch their names into the record books.

Here you can find up-to-date information regarding scores and upcoming matchups all week long. The tournament will run on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday.

(3) Scott City 61 (6) Hutch Trinity 19 (2) Hugoton 42 (7) Smoky Valley 31 (4) Kingman 50 (5) Lyons 19 (1) SE of Saline 53 (8) Sterling 17

7:30 (1) SE of Saline (4) Kingman

(4) Hugoton 60 (5) SE of Saline 52

3:00 (5) SE of Saline (8) Hutch Trinity

Sterling Invitational 2025 Schedule and Results

The Kansas Shrine Bowl has announced the four member Hall of Fame Class of 2025 to be inducted, Wednesday, May 7, 2025, in Manhattan. The 2025 class will be inducted during the Kansas Shrine Bowl Hall of Fame ceremony at the Coach Bill Snyder Family/Sunflower Chapter National Football Foundation Banquet. The event will be hosted at the Shamrock Plaza at Coach Bill Snyder Family Stadium at Kansas State University.

The Kansas Shrine Bowl Hall of Fame Class of 2025 includes:

• CJ Hamilton, Silver Lake H.S., Kansas Shrine Bowl Coach (1977, 1985, 1986, 2003, 2004)

• Kent Sedlacek, Hanover H.S., Kansas Shrine Bowl East All-Star (1979)

• Collin Sexton, Abilene H.S., Kansas Shrine Bowl West All-Star (2012)

• Dane Simoneau, Salina Sacred Heart H.S., Kansas Shrine Bowl West All-Star (2007)

The Kansas Shrine Bowl Hall of Fame was established for the purpose of honoring those individuals who have gained recognition and fame for themselves and the Kansas Shrine Bowl as a result of their endeavors and accomplishments both on and off the football field. The Kansas Shrine Bowl Hall of Fame consists of 32 inductees, with the 2025 class soon to join. To learn more about the Kansas Shrine Bowl Hall of Fame visit <a href="http://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/HallofFame">www.KansasShrineBowl.com/HallofFame</a>.

Tickets to the Kansas Shrine Bowl Hall of Fame Ceremony and the Bill Snyder Family/Sunflower Chapter National Football Foundation Banquet in Manhattan on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, are available for $30. Please contact Jeff Bollig at jbollig84@gmail.com or call 913-449-1635 for additional ticketing information.

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