The Saline County District Court has issued an arrest warrant for Austin Leroy Calp for multiple counts of burglary and theft.&nbsp;

NAME: Calp, Austin, Leroy DOB: 03/27/1994 / HEIGHT/WEIGHT: 6’0”/ 147 lbs Eyes: Brown Hair: Brown&nbsp;&nbsp;

If you have any information pertaining to the whereabouts of the above subject, do not attempt to apprehend this subject. Please get in touch with the Saline County Sheriff's Office Investigations Division at 785-826-6500 or Crimestoppers at 785-825-TIPS or TEXT SATIPS to CRIMES (274637). 

You will be assigned a confidential number, and if your information qualifies, you may claim a cash reward from Crimestoppers.

Saline County Sheriff's Office seeks help locating burglary, theft suspect

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

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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

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

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

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

In today's digital age, reliable&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;access is essential for economic growth, education, healthcare, and overall quality of life. To address&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;deficiencies and enhance connectivity throughout the county, Saline County has contracted with Design Nine, Inc. of Blacksburg, VA, to conduct a comprehensive&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;study.

Design Nine will examine existing&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;assets offered by local telecom providers and cable companies. The analysis will cover the types of&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;services available, usage patterns, and, most importantly, gaps in coverage. Based on this data, Design Nine will propose strategies for improving&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;services in Saline County.

The success of this project is completely dependent upon the participation of Saline County residents. Saline County urges every resident and business owner to complete the&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;surveys to provide the essential data needed to shape the future of&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;in Saline County. The data collected will empower local leaders and stakeholders to make informed decisions about expanding&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;access in Saline County.

To view the Saline County Resident Broadband Survey <a href="https://projects.designnine.com/survey/saline-residential">click here</a>

To view the Saline County Business Broadband Survey <a href="https://projects.designnine.com/survey/saline-business">click here</a>

Para encuestas en español haga <a href="https://projects.designnine.com/survey/saline-residential-espaniol">clic aquí.</a>

Paper surveys will also be available at select locations throughout the county to gather&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;coverage information from those who may not have the ability to fill the survey out online.&nbsp;

Eagle Communications Media Center, 1825 S Ohio St, Salina, KS 67401 Ad Astra Coffee, 135 N Santa Fe Ave, Salina Assaria Hardware,&nbsp;104 W Main St, Assaria, KS 67416 Gypsum Exit 14 Restaurant, 512 Maple St, Gypsum, KS 67448 Salina Public Library,&nbsp;301 W Elm St, Salina, KS 67401 City/County Building, 300 W. Ash St., Salina, KS 67401 Salina Family Healthcare Center,&nbsp;651 E Prescott Rd, Salina, KS 67401

Join Saline County and Design Nine at the Salina Public Library for a come-and-go community forum to discuss broadband equity in Saline County.

Location:&nbsp;Salina Public Library Technology Center, 301 W. Elm St., Salina, KS 67401

Date and time:&nbsp;Tue, Jun 25, 2024 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Andrew Cohill, PhD, President and CEO of Design Nine, Inc., and Jack Maytum, Senior Broadband Analyst for Design Nine, invite area business owners/operators to a "Broadband for Business" community forum on June 26 from 8 am to 10 am at the Visit Salina Annex.

Design Nine was founded in 1987 by&nbsp;<a href="https://vktowebbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001SYjhHIvUEbYAD5n0QU_OpqxgOhnDNhg0ShSJIATRPvIETbZvOQDuYYeQ99-AwW1jGsnC_0F5-yldrwkTnfttUmgXSuaiZ0MqjtktW-YCnkFPMo06f12vf27bAQERkW-FmxkStUc8WEM6NDypZ-OlM6qS3UP6cYX4Mynh4O4LnEo=&amp;c=1dvxXSqYqatdx2j2aTz5MeEkF67zgBmJ3aKNSDVzwXBRzmSUv3nlVw==&amp;ch=zKVtLyBFknwKo0fhEzbpAHEuSmYE0Op4Q4ZfnP4xo-s3UVIcxP38Ug==" target="_blank">Andrew Cohill</a>&nbsp;to provide technology advice and services to community, business, and public clients. Over the years, the company has grown steadily and now offers a comprehensive array of&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;network services, including early phase planning, network architecture and design, and network construction oversight and project management. Design Nine is one of a very few firms in the United States with experience in the design, construction, and operation of open access&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;networks.

Design Nine projects have included the award-winning nDanville municipal open network, The Wired Road open access network, New Hampshire FastRoads, Rockbridge Area Network Authority network, the City of Eagan, Minnesota open access network, and over a hundred other planning efforts for communities in more than twenty states. The&nbsp;<a href="https://vktowebbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001SYjhHIvUEbYAD5n0QU_OpqxgOhnDNhg0ShSJIATRPvIETbZvOQDuYYeQ99-AwW1jyrd0G17qjB9Htm_1t2D4S8-QsMbTIdVsv47rJAqF2MWuQlD_FK7_7Q3xSeC4ULHgRMpgqrYR7Nt_2N5zEPpxbcbGTb-A-8AZ&amp;c=1dvxXSqYqatdx2j2aTz5MeEkF67zgBmJ3aKNSDVzwXBRzmSUv3nlVw==&amp;ch=zKVtLyBFknwKo0fhEzbpAHEuSmYE0Op4Q4ZfnP4xo-s3UVIcxP38Ug==" target="_blank">senior leadership</a>&nbsp;of Design Nine has extensive, hands-on experience designing and managing telecommunications and&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;systems.

Design Nine, Inc. is a Virginia corporation with its main office in the Corporate Research Center in Blacksburg, Virginia. Design Nine has satellite offices in Keene, New Hampshire and Knoxville, Tennessee.

Andrew Cohill is the President of Design Nine. His career in telecom began in the early eighties with work at AT&amp;T Bell Labs.

Cohill has been helping communities develop, build, and operate modern&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;fiber and wireless networks since 1993 when Virginia Tech appointed him the first Director of the Blacksburg Electronic Village, the world’s first Internet-based community&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;project.

Cohill has worked with more than 300 communities worldwide on telecommunications planning, design, and engineering of next-generation high-performance&nbsp;wireless and fiber&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;networks.&nbsp;He has provided assistance to community&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;projects throughout North America, including Canada and the Caribbean. Design Nine provides&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;planning, network construction services, and network operations services for public and private clients throughout the U.S.

Cohill has written and spoken extensively on the future of communities and the relationship between community and economic development and&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;infrastructure. He has a worldwide reputation for his work in helping governments and communities make wise technology investments that support jobs, economic development, and intelligent use of the Internet.&nbsp;

Jack Maytum is a Senior&nbsp;Broadband&nbsp;Analyst with Design Nine.&nbsp;Over the ten years with the company, Maytum has worked with dozens of town, county, and city&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;feasibility and planning studies.&nbsp;He specializes in community engagement activities, stakeholder engagement, and service provider outreach.

Maytum’s experience in telecom network management began as a communications officer in the U.S. Amy Signal Corp. Later, Maytum worked for AT&amp;T, coordinating the efforts of sales staff and networking professionals who were providing telecom services to Connecticut’s 147,000 business customers.

As Director of Marketing for Nestor Traffic Systems, Maytum prepared technical information for presentations to mayors, councils, and County managers across the U.S. regarding the installation and operation of networked red light cameras and speed detection systems. He also taught network programming for five years at Northeastern University’s State-of-the-Art Engineering program.

﻿Funded by $48,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, this study is crucial for identifying service gaps and developing strategies to improve&nbsp;broadband&nbsp;access.

Saline County to host broadband community forums this week

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.

Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose misd warrant

NAME:&nbsp;Rivera-Santoyo,Asael Alejandro

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;DUI; 2nd conv; comp evidence of blood/breath .08+

Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm

Intimidation of witness/victim; Prevent reporting

Interfere w/ LEO; False report to obstruct

Saline County Jail Bookings, Nov. 22

Downtown Salina is set to turn pink on Friday, Nov. 22, as local businesses participate in "Pink Friday," a nationwide event encouraging shoppers to support small and local businesses. Held annually the Friday before Black Friday, Pink Friday aims to shift attention to community-centered shopping and celebrate small businesses.

Leslie Bishop, executive director of Salina Downtown Inc., emphasized the importance of shopping small and supporting local businesses.

"The best gift you can give is to shop small and support our local businesses in downtown Salina," Bishop said. "For every one dollar spent locally, 70 cents stays local."

Shoppers are invited to visit a variety of participating stores in downtown Salina, each offering unique products and experiences. Featured businesses include Redefine Nutrition, Apron Strings, Red Fern Booksellers, Blushe Boutique, and many more, all of which will have special offerings for the event.

This year’s theme, “Pink is the New Black,” highlights the importance of supporting local establishments and keeping holiday spending within the community. 

Make sure to "Think Pink First" and explore what Salina’s downtown has to offer.

Pink Friday participating businesses:

Lauren Quinn Flower Boutique - 129 S Santa Fe

Salina Art Center Gift Gallery - 242 S Santa Fe

Find out more about Salina Downtown events by visiting their website <a href="https://www.salinadowntown.org/?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=downtownsalinasem&amp;utm_content=downtowngeneralhomepage&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiAire5BhCNARIsAM53K1jgTtnqCPu9leTr0bwvXYIuhHjUIGYVRCu_IkjUH2UCBlyCtSq_cjIaAvxhEALw_wcB">here.&nbsp;</a>

Salina celebrates 'Pink Friday' with local shopping event tomorrow

Tonight Clear, with a low around 26. North northwest wind 5 to 7 mph becoming calm in the evening. Friday Sunny, with a high near 55. Calm wind becoming south 5 to 8 mph in the afternoon. Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 35. South wind around 7 mph. Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 60. South wind 6 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 40. Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 60. Sunday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 30.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NWS weekend weather forecast

The 11th Annual Rockin’ the Fe, a fundraiser for the Stiefel Theatre, is set for Friday, February 7, at 7 p.m. This year’s event features performances by The Sunset Sinners, Lazy Wayne Band, and Emmitt DeWater.

Tickets are $15 and $30 and go on sale Friday, November 22, at 10 a.m. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Stiefel Theatre Box Office or online at <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>.

For 11 years, the Stiefel Theatre has partnered with Blake Blackim and the Sunset Sinners to bring Rockin’ the Fe to Salina—its annual fundraiser. This tradition has grown into a significant event that the Stiefel Theatre anticipates each year. The Stiefel Theatre encourages local businesses to join as sponsors for this exciting night.

Sponsors are invited to a fabulous pre-party held before the show in the Watson Room. As an independent, nonprofit venue that receives no outside subsidy, Rockin’ the Fe has become a crucial event for the Stiefel Theatre. The theatre is tremendously grateful to Blake and proud of the Sunset Sinners and their impressive trajectory. The Stiefel Theatre also looks forward to the opening bands that Blake brings each year.

Based in Salina, Kansas, The Sunset Sinners bring their unique “Whiskey Barrel Rock” style to the stage, blending influences from The Black Crowes, ZZ Top, Zac Brown Band, and Blackberry Smoke.

The Sinners have two albums out, with a third titled CHAOS set for release in 2025. Their recording sessions at the famed Yellow Dog Studios in Austin, Texas, with Grammy Award-winning producers Casey Johns and Dave Perceful, have yielded hits such as Two Beers and Chaos. Their music is available on all streaming platforms.

When performing live, the Sinners deliver a mix of their hits and “Sinnerized” classics, creating an unforgettable concert party experience.

Led by Dallas Pryor, the Lazy Wayne Band is a Red Dirt Country sensation known for its high-energy performances at honky-tonks across the region. Their latest single, Didn’t Matter Anyway, is available on all streaming platforms.

Twelve-year-old blues prodigy Emmitt DeWater, from Omaha, Nebraska, channels the spirit of Stevie Ray Vaughan with his electric blues performances. A rising star in the genre, DeWater is working on his first EP and will perform with his full band for an electrifying set.

Rockin’ the Fe returns to Salina's Stiefel Theatre for its 11th annual fundraiser

OCCK, Inc. Transportation, including Salina CityGo, 81 Connection, Regional Paratransit, GoAbilene, GoConcordia, KanConnect, and OCCK OnDemand public transportation, will be closed on Thursday, November 28, 2024, for Thanksgiving.&nbsp;

<a>CityGo service will resume on Black Friday, November 29, 2024, with hours of operation from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Peak routes will not be running.&nbsp;</a>

Regional Paratransit, GoAbilene, and GoConcordia services will be running reduced trips on Friday.&nbsp;

81 Connection, KanConnect, and OCCK OnDemand will be running regular routes on Friday.

Transportation services will resume normal operating hours on Saturday, November 30th.&nbsp;

OCCK, INC. Transportation announces holiday schedule

A slow-speed pursuit through Salina neighborhoods Wednesday evening ended with the arrest of a 22-year-old man suspected of being involved in a recent hit-and-run accident.

At approximately 6 p.m. on November 20, a Salina Police Department (SPD) officer spotted a blue Buick LeSabre connected to a minor hit-and-run that happened on November 13 near Ohio Street and Prescott Avenue. When the officer attempted to make a traffic stop in the parking lot of 1118 North Ninth Street, the vehicle continued driving.

The driver, later identified as 22-year-old Colton Allen Miller of Salina, led SPD officers on a low-speed pursuit through residential streets, never exceeding 30 mph. 

According to Salina Police Department Cpt. James Feldman, Miller stopped at all stop signs and used turn signals before eventually pulling into a parking stall at 1846 North Ninth Street, where he was arrested without incident.

Miller faces charges for failing to yield to an emergency vehicle and driving while suspended. He was also found to have two active warrants for failure to appear and probation violation. Miller denied knowledge of the November 13 hit-and-run, which remains under investigation.

The November 13 hit-and-run involved a 2014 Ford Taurus driven by a 75-year-old woman from Sylvan Grove. Feldman said the Buick struck the Taurus from behind, and both vehicles pulled into the Braum’s parking lot. The male driver of the Buick, allegedly Miller, reportedly asked the woman not to contact law enforcement before leaving the scene without providing his information.

No injuries were reported, and the Taurus sustained only minor damage.&nbsp;

Salina man arrested after slow-speed pursuit possibly linked to hit-and-run

Last updated 11/21/2024 at 12:58 p.m.

The Abilene Police Department is currently conducting an investigation involving a former staff member of USD. #435. Once the investigation is concluded, all reports will be forwarded to the Dickinson County Attorney’s Office for charging consideration.&nbsp;

According to a statement issued by USD #435, "The Abilene Police Department is investigating communication between a student and a teacher, whose resignation was approved by the Abilene Public Schools’ Board of Education on Monday, November 18, 2024."

"The Abilene School District is cooperating with local law enforcement.&nbsp; Once the investigation by law enforcement is complete, the district will conduct a Title IX investigation of its own.&nbsp; In the interest of ensuring a fair and impartial investigation of the allegations, USD #435 will not comment further about this issue at this time. However, Abilene Public Schools, USD #435’s, first priority is to protect the students of our district."

No other information was released at this time.&nbsp;

Salina Post will update this article as new information becomes available.&nbsp;

UPDATED: Abilene Police investigating former USD 435 staff member

In this&nbsp;King in the Community episode, host Nate King interviews April Saskowski and Angie Andrewson from the Building Blocks Learning Center at Trinity United Methodist Church in Salina.

April shares the story of founding the preschool 13 years ago and how it has grown into a program that now includes childcare services. Angie discusses her experiences as a teacher and how her background in early childhood education helps her provide a nurturing and engaging environment for young learners.

For parents looking for a preschool or childcare program, this episode offers an inside look at how Building Blocks Learning Center, 901 East Neal Avenue, Salina,&nbsp;is helping children thrive. To learn more, visit their website at&nbsp;<a href="https://preschool.triumc.org/" target="_blank">https://preschool.triumc.org/</a>&nbsp;for&nbsp;enrollment details.

🎙King in the Community — April Saskowski and Angie Andrewson, Building Blocks Learning Center

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;

Saline Co. Sheriff's Office, SPD now accepting applications for Citizen's Academy

Step into the magic of Abilene, USA TODAY’s Best Historic Small Town, and experience a Hallmark-style Christmas weekend filled with twinkling lights, festive events, and small-town charm. Here’s what’s happening during the holiday season:

8:30 a.m. – Start your day with breakfast at Amanda’s Bakery &amp; Bistro or Susie’s Deli in downtown Abilene.

9:00 a.m. – Explore the 49th Annual Abilene Holiday Craft Show at Sterl Hall for handmade gifts.

 10:00 a.m. – Visit Sand Springs Venue’s Christmas Vendor Open House for festive shopping.

 11:00 a.m. – Bid on decorated trees at the Festival of Trees and shop local stores like RHV, Aksent Boutique, and more.

12:00 p.m. – Enjoy lunch at M&amp;R Grill or Ike’s 2.0.

2:00 p.m. – Catch Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings at Great Plains Theatre.

 4:30 p.m. – Join the Christmas Cruise for Food to donate canned goods and enjoy holiday lights.

5:15 p.m. – Experience Cowboy Christmas at Old Abilene Town with rustic holiday decor.

5:30 p.m. – Tour the “Seelye Mansion in Lights,” featuring over 65 Christmas trees and vintage charm.

6:00 p.m. – Savor BBQ at Midwest Creamery &amp; Q or Hickok Spirits + Eats, or enjoy pizza at Tossed n Sauced Pizza.

 7:00 p.m. – Gather for the Mayor’s Holiday Tree Lighting, live performances, and fireworks at Little Ike Park.

8:30 p.m. – End your night with a drink at Rackets Tap House.

Morning – Start your day with a church service or leisurely breakfast.

 12:00 p.m. – Enjoy a family-style fried chicken dinner at Legacy Kansas.

 2:00 p.m. – Celebrate with traditional tunes at the Abilene Municipal Band Christmas Concert.

3:00 p.m. – Tour historic homes on the Heritage Homes Association’s 47th Annual Homes for the Holidays Tour.

5:00 p.m. – Enjoy live music, crafts, and carousel rides at Old-Fashioned Christmas at Dickinson County Heritage Center.

7:30 p.m. – Ride the Cowtown Santa Express for a magical train ride with Santa, hot cocoa, and cookies.

Visit <a href="http://www.AbileneKansas.org/Christmas">AbileneKansas.org/Christmas</a> for a complete schedule and details.

Abilene's 'Cowtown Christmas' Dec. 7-8 event schedule

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ef182d91-694f-48ab-9b95-d9269469eb4b?elinkdata=15771">Byron McNair</a> understands the sizable task he and his Kansas Wesleyan teammates will face when they play Dickinson State on Saturday in the first round of the NAIA Football Championship Series.

"We're the sleeper," said McNair, the Coyotes' sophomore quarterback. "It's David and Goliath, and David took down the giant. Any team that we face is going to be the giant to us."

McNair speaks from experience, considering the personal challenges he has overcome this season. Shoulder and clavicle injuries, coupled with a midseason coaching change, have steeled his resolve and mental toughness, which will be sorely tested in the 2 p.m. game in Dickinson, North Dakota.

Wesleyan is 7-4 and seeded 19th, while DSU is 9-1 and the No. 14 seed. The Blue Hawks won the North Star Athletic Association title with an 8-0 record and have won seven in a row. Their defense allows just under 70 yards rushing per game, which is the strength of the KWU offense.

"Like I tell my team all the time, they put their pads on just like you do," he said. "We're all human, we all bleed, cry and sweat. When it comes to out on the field, who has the bigger heart?"

Heart is something McNair has plenty of, as he has demonstrated this season. Playing rival Bethany in the second game of the season, he was hurt on the opening drive - the first step of a painful journey.

"I dropped my shoulder and (the defender) made me fumble," he said. "I was like, 'OK, my shoulder feels a little iffy,' but me being the person I am, I pushed through the rest of the game and went to go get it checked out that Monday. They said it was just a minor sprain in my AC joint."

Things got much worse a week later against Southwestern.

"I got it landed on again and was like, 'Something's a little off, so let me go ahead walk off this field,'" he said. "When I got to the sideline, I wanted to go back in. (The trainer) had me throw a little bit, and I told myself, 'Nah, me going out there would be a liability rather than the asset,' and I didn't want to do that for my team.'"

"I sat down and some tears came out, and I'm a man who usually doesn't cry," he said.

Inspiration arrived in the form of defensive teammate <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/00555541-60db-4612-bbc5-4939dc33fc5f?elinkdata=15771">Jordan Diggins</a>.

"He said, 'We need you, you're that person for it, we can't have you over here crying like this,'" he said. "As soon as he said that, I wiped my face, got up immediately and knew that my guys needed me. No matter what I was going through, I knew I had to be there for my guys."

McNair went back in and was on the field the following week against Friends when he suffered the clavicle injury. Combined, they were more than he could overcome, and he missed the Coyotes' games against Bethel and McPherson, which preceded the bye week.

"It was trouble sleeping, trouble putting on and taking off shirts," he said. "It was hard to move around, eat, shower, all your daily, easy things. Everything was bad because both shoulder mobilities were off. We had faced adversity already, so I knew what it took - just keep pushing."

McNair returned for the Avila game, with co-coaches <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/56f62517-e2c4-43d0-9c0b-3b936793cb8c?elinkdata=15771">Chris Snyder</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/48064ae6-c55c-41c5-801e-d759b2a05a39?elinkdata=15771">David Leonard</a>, the first after the break, and shared duties with senior <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b8a8a995-4417-40de-becf-5c91e790dee6?elinkdata=15771">Richard Lara</a> as his health improved. He assumed the full-time role last Saturday against Sterling in the regular-season finale.

"When we played Avila, there was one time I could have gone out of bounds, and I purposely stayed in and got tackled to see how it felt," he said. "Once I felt that weight on me, it was, 'OK, this doesn't hurt,' and I knew I was good."

KWU has won all five of its games since the bye. McNair has completed 51.4 percent of his passes for 760 yards, four touchdowns and one interception in nine games.

"We didn't break down as a team when so many of us could have broken down and given up," he said. "We stayed consistent, showed up for each other every single day, and we pushed forward. I just love the guys for that and appreciate them."

McNair has a special appreciation for Lara.

"There's no selfishness or animosity or anything like that," he said. "Every single day, we're helping each other, picking each other up. Quarterback is the most important position, so if they see us being compatible and working together when it's a one-man job, then everybody is following us."

"Byron's greatest attributes don't necessarily come from his arm, in my opinion," Leonard said. "He's a natural leader, and he's not afraid of failure. He's going to put himself out there, regardless of if it puts him in a situation to fail or succeed."

"He's mature beyond his years, we saw that from day one," Snyder said. "He walked into the camp last year, and everybody was like, 'This kid's going to be it for us.' It took him a couple weeks, but he got a shot and ran with it. It's just that maturity as a freshman and the competitiveness, that's why you feel like you have a chance on every snap.

"He's played only maybe 10 games in his career because of injuries and starting halfway during last year. You can't really gauge a quarterback on those few games."

Teamwork is a must Saturday, according to McNair.

KWU FB FEATURE: Resilient McNair ready for Dickinson State challenge

ASSISTANT HEAD COACH/SPECIAL TEAMS COORDINATOR DAVE TOUB

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