Following is recent booking activity for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salinecountyks.gov/Sheriff-Office/Online-search/Booking-Activities">Saline County Jail</a>, 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.

NAME:&nbsp;Dyrness,Gregory Edel Jaymon Heaven

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGES: Probation Violation; Failure to appear; Theft by deception;Value less than $1,500

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

NAME:&nbsp;Kleber,Amber Nichole Oak

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Battery on LEO; Physical contact with county or city officer on duty; Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose misd warrant; Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance

NAME:&nbsp;Lopez-Garcia,Ricardo Adolfo

REQUESTED CHARGE: Probation Violation&nbsp;

Following is recent booking activity for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salinecountyks.gov/Sheriff-Office/Online-search/Booking-Activities">Saline County Jail</a>, 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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771124605922.jpeg" alt="Dyrness,Gregory Edel Jaymon Heaven (32)" />
 <figcaption>Dyrness,Gregory Edel Jaymon Heaven (32)</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Dyrness,Gregory Edel Jaymon HeavenREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771124695273.jpeg" alt="Eisenman,Tray Allen (33)" />
 <figcaption>Eisenman,Tray Allen (33)</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Eisenman,Tray AllenREQUESTED CHARGES: Probation Violation; Failure to appear; Theft by deception;Value less than $1,500<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771124771505.jpeg" alt="Harden,Keshey Nakita (26)" />
 <figcaption>Harden,Keshey Nakita (26)</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Harden,Keshey NakitaREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771124818630.jpeg" alt="Kleber,Amber Nichole Oak (37)" />
 <figcaption>Kleber,Amber Nichole Oak (37)</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Kleber,Amber Nichole OakREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Battery on LEO; Physical contact with county or city officer on duty; Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose misd warrant; Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771124870739.jpeg" alt="Lopez-Garcia,Ricardo Adolfo (34)" />
 <figcaption>Lopez-Garcia,Ricardo Adolfo (34)</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Lopez-Garcia,Ricardo AdolfoREQUESTED CHARGE: Probation Violation&nbsp;

Saline County Jail Bookings, February 14

Salina musician, Gayle McMillen and former Salinan, Dr. Jennifer Gordon, will present a Black History Month concert at the University United Methodist Church on February 22nd at 3:00 pm.

This concert titled, The Dunlap Exodusters – Songs of my Ancestors, will tell the story of Gordon’s ancestors who came to Kansas in 1878 and settled in Dunlap, Kansas. The concert of Negro Spirituals will include a PowerPoint presentation with narration read by Sandra Beverly.

McMillen is a well-known Salina music educator. McMillen grew up in Clearwater, Kansas, and graduated from Clearwater High School in 1967. He received a Bachelor of Music degree from Southwestern College in 1971 and earned a Master of Music Education from Wichita State University in 1976. Gayle has earned additional hours at Chapman University, Emporia State University, Kansas State University Texas Christian University, the University of Kansas, Vander Cook College, and Wichita State University. He taught two years each at South Haven, Kansas Wesleyan University, and Solomon. Gayle retired in 2005 after teaching 27 years in Salina, Kansas. While in Salina, he taught 5-12 band, jazz band, AP music theory, and team-taught full orchestra. He hosted the Roosevelt-Lincoln Invitational Band Festival for 23 years. Gayle was an adjunct teacher at Kansas Wesleyan University for 12 years after retirement from USD 305.

Dr. Gordon was born and raised in Salina and she sang her first solo at age six on a Christmas program when she was in the first grade. She began taking voice lessons at age twelve and sang in middle, high school, college, and community choirs. Jennifer performed as a guest soloist in many Salina churches and community programs. At 19, she auditioned for the international singing group, ‘Up With People’, and was selected as a soloist to travel with a cast throughout the southwest, west, and east coasts, and Mexico. She performed with this group at Lincoln Center in New York and at The White House.

After leaving Up With People, Jennifer attended Friends University in Wichita, Kansas, and was a soloist with The Friends University Singing Quakers, and a soloist with the choir at the First United Methodist Church in Wichita. Jennifer also sang with the Wichita Music Theater. She married Loring Gordon and returned to Kansas Wesleyan in 1973 to complete her B.A. in Elementary Education. While raising their family, her singing was put on hold.

Her passion for singing never waned even as her family grew. Gordon found time to take voice lessons and perform a few concerts in Salina. She trained under the late Dr Elmer Copley at Bethany College at Lindsborg with the assistance of a Horizon grant to further develop her singing voice. Over the past twenty years Gordon has sung in several Topeka churches, including University United Methodist Church, Susanna Wesley United Methodist, and Lowman United Methodist Church, where she is a member and sings in the choir there. For the past two years she has also sang with the Community Gospel Choir of Topeka.

Gordon truly enjoys creating and performing vocal music programs that present music of the African American experience. Her program of The Life and Times of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. has been well received at several colleges and churches in Kansas. This program was presented at Kansas Wesleyan University in 2023. She also has performed A Concert of Negro Spirituals at the Smoky Hill Museum in Salina that coincided with one of their featured exhibits, Climbing Jacobs Ladder: The Rise of Black Churches in Eastern American Cities, 1740-1877

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770742209966.png" alt="Dr. Jennifer Gordon &amp; Gayle McMillen, two talented musicians to perform a Black History Month concert at UUMC on February 22, 2026 @ 3:00 pm. Courtesy photos " />
 <figcaption>Dr. Jennifer Gordon &amp; Gayle McMillen, two talented musicians to perform a Black History Month concert at UUMC on February 22, 2026 @ 3:00 pm. Courtesy photos </figcaption>
 </figure>Salina PostSalina musician, Gayle McMillen and former Salinan, Dr. Jennifer Gordon, will present a Black History Month concert at the University United Methodist Church on February 22nd at 3:00 pm. This concert titled, The Dunlap Exodusters – Songs of my Ancestors, will tell the story of Gordon’s ancestors who came to Kansas in 1878 and settled in Dunlap, Kansas. The concert of Negro Spirituals will include a PowerPoint presentation with narration read by Sandra Beverly.McMillen is a well-known Salina music educator. McMillen grew up in Clearwater, Kansas, and graduated from Clearwater High School in 1967. He received a Bachelor of Music degree from Southwestern College in 1971 and earned a Master of Music Education from Wichita State University in 1976. Gayle has earned additional hours at Chapman University, Emporia State University, Kansas State University Texas Christian University, the University of Kansas, Vander Cook College, and Wichita State University. He taught two years each at South Haven, Kansas Wesleyan University, and Solomon. Gayle retired in 2005 after teaching 27 years in Salina, Kansas. While in Salina, he taught 5-12 band, jazz band, AP music theory, and team-taught full orchestra. He hosted the Roosevelt-Lincoln Invitational Band Festival for 23 years. Gayle was an adjunct teacher at Kansas Wesleyan University for 12 years after retirement from USD 305.Dr. Gordon was born and raised in Salina and she sang her first solo at age six on a Christmas program when she was in the first grade. She began taking voice lessons at age twelve and sang in middle, high school, college, and community choirs. Jennifer performed as a guest soloist in many Salina churches and community programs. At 19, she auditioned for the international singing group, ‘Up With People’, and was selected as a soloist to travel with a cast throughout the southwest, west, and east coasts, and Mexico. She performed with this group at Lincoln Center in New York and at The White House.After leaving Up With People, Jennifer attended Friends University in Wichita, Kansas, and was a soloist with The Friends University Singing Quakers, and a soloist with the choir at the First United Methodist Church in Wichita. Jennifer also sang with the Wichita Music Theater. She married Loring Gordon and returned to Kansas Wesleyan in 1973 to complete her B.A. in Elementary Education. While raising their family, her singing was put on hold.Her passion for singing never waned even as her family grew. Gordon found time to take voice lessons and perform a few concerts in Salina. She trained under the late Dr Elmer Copley at Bethany College at Lindsborg with the assistance of a Horizon grant to further develop her singing voice. Over the past twenty years Gordon has sung in several Topeka churches, including University United Methodist Church, Susanna Wesley United Methodist, and Lowman United Methodist Church, where she is a member and sings in the choir there. For the past two years she has also sang with the Community Gospel Choir of Topeka.Gordon truly enjoys creating and performing vocal music programs that present music of the African American experience. Her program of The Life and Times of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. has been well received at several colleges and churches in Kansas. This program was presented at Kansas Wesleyan University in 2023. She also has performed A Concert of Negro Spirituals at the Smoky Hill Museum in Salina that coincided with one of their featured exhibits, Climbing Jacobs Ladder: The Rise of Black Churches in Eastern American Cities, 1740-1877

Two talented musicians to present Black History Month concert in Salina

The Wichita woman who falsely accused her ex-wife and NASA astronaut for "illegally" accessing her bank account from space has been sentenced.

Read more: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/41109540-05cb-49f3-8038-46078d470193">Kansas woman plead guilty for falsely accusing ex-wife &amp; NASA astronaut of illegally accessing bank account from space</a>

According to the <a href="https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdtx/pr/far-out-woman-sentenced-making-false-reports-illegal-bank-account-access-international">U.S. Department of Justice</a>, Summer Worden (51)&nbsp;has been ordered to federal prison for making fraudulent statements to law enforcement that Anne McClain illegally gained access to her bank account from the International Space Station (ISS).

U.S. District Judge, Alfred Bennett sentenced Worden to three months in federal prison to be immediately followed by two years of supervised release. 

The court also ordered Worden to pay $210,000 in restitution.&nbsp;

Worden plead guilty on November 13, 2025.

In the past she faced 5 counts of wire fraud and 3 counts of unlawful transactions. Additionally, she bilked 8 other people and McClain of more than $200,000 in a land purchase back in 2017.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763380295480.png" alt="Anne McClain&nbsp;is the astronaut who was wrongly accused of trying to access her estranged spouse's bank account while on the International Space Station.&nbsp;Photo courtesy NASA" />
 <figcaption>Anne McClain&nbsp;is the astronaut who was wrongly accused of trying to access her estranged spouse's bank account while on the International Space Station.&nbsp;Photo courtesy NASA</figcaption>
 </figure>By: NICOLAS FIERROSalina PostThe Wichita woman who falsely accused her ex-wife and NASA astronaut for "illegally" accessing her bank account from space has been sentenced.Read more: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/41109540-05cb-49f3-8038-46078d470193">Kansas woman plead guilty for falsely accusing ex-wife &amp; NASA astronaut of illegally accessing bank account from space</a>According to the <a href="https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdtx/pr/far-out-woman-sentenced-making-false-reports-illegal-bank-account-access-international">U.S. Department of Justice</a>, Summer Worden (51)&nbsp;has been ordered to federal prison for making fraudulent statements to law enforcement that Anne McClain illegally gained access to her bank account from the International Space Station (ISS).U.S. District Judge, Alfred Bennett sentenced Worden to three months in federal prison to be immediately followed by two years of supervised release. The court also ordered Worden to pay $210,000 in restitution.&nbsp;Worden plead guilty on November 13, 2025.In the past she faced 5 counts of wire fraud and 3 counts of unlawful transactions. Additionally, she bilked 8 other people and McClain of more than $200,000 in a land purchase back in 2017.

UPDATE: Kansas woman learns sentence after framing ex-wife & NASA astronaut 

<div>02/13/26 at 6:00PM
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<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/33FXynLSR1s?si=eYTWyBeOPi4XhQhB" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;"></iframe>
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</div></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767802864329.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><div><a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLItbV4yqN5sjidkkd4VFkOclPBRSRmgtH"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741193988925.png" alt="Southeast of Saline Archive" style="width:320px;height:180px;">Click Here to View Past Southeast of Saline games</a></div><div><a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLItbV4yqN5si0EQOKF057Y-BeWYKe-CVh&si=BN0NheKuo5bn25LB"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741193194523.png" alt="Sacred Heart Knights Archive" style="width:320px;height:180px;">Click Here to View Past Sacred Heart games</a></div><div><a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLItbV4yqN5sj8vbW89bbBz2HWUjaPVqFf&si=MaFugWlB3VFLDxiX"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741194031456.png" alt="Game of the Week Archive" style="width:320px;height:180px;">Click Here to View Past Game of the Week games</a></div>

High School Sports LIVE STREAMS

Kansas Department of Transportation

Beginning around Wednesday, February 18, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) plans to begin a field survey at three separate locations to gather information necessary for light towers in Saline County.

The three locations which will be surveyed include:

Survey activities will include the use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the corridor. A member of the survey crew will contact property owners or tenants for permission to enter private property.

KDOT expects this survey to be completed by March 20, 2026.

Tony Crawford, Assistant Survey Project Manager for KDOT, will be in charge of this survey. 

For any questions, please contact KDOT Public Information Officer, Ashley Perez at (785) 826-6799.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739902891919.jpeg" alt="Kansas Department of Transportation" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Department of Transportation</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of TransportationBeginning around Wednesday, February 18, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) plans to begin a field survey at three separate locations to gather information necessary for light towers in Saline County.The three locations which will be surveyed include:- I-70/Ninth St. interchange.- I-70/Ohio Rd. interchange.- I-135/State St. interchange.Survey activities will include the use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the corridor. A member of the survey crew will contact property owners or tenants for permission to enter private property.KDOT expects this survey to be completed by March 20, 2026.Tony Crawford, Assistant Survey Project Manager for KDOT, will be in charge of this survey. For any questions, please contact KDOT Public Information Officer, Ashley Perez at (785) 826-6799.

KDOT survey to begin for light towers in Saline County

Here is the lineup for the Saturday Morning Show with Dave Foor &amp; Nicolas Fierro on&nbsp;910 AM/107.5 FM KINA for&nbsp;February 14, 2026:

Michelle Lefort - Champix Fitness Center for Her.

Big Brothers Big Sisters&nbsp;- Bowl For Kids Sake 2026, "ALOHA" theme.

Ann Zimmerman -&nbsp;&nbsp;Eight week guitar lessons and group recital at Stiefel Theatre.

Salina NAACP&nbsp; - Freedom Fund Banquet.

All episodes are recorded and uploaded on the&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?CFID=05fb1ecb-7d68-4542-adb3-9b7c11d9b5e5&amp;CFTOKEN=0&amp;stationCallSign=KINA&amp;onDemandAutoStart=true&amp;p92136680=true&amp;relocateURL=true">910 AM and 107.5 FM KINA website</a>, under the 'KINA Saturday Mornings'&nbsp;tab.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625885773462.jpeg" alt="KINA Salina 910 AM/107.5 FM" />
 <figcaption>KINA Salina 910 AM/107.5 FM</figcaption>
 </figure>Here is the lineup for the Saturday Morning Show with Dave Foor &amp; Nicolas Fierro on&nbsp;910 AM/107.5 FM KINA for&nbsp;February 14, 2026:Michelle Lefort - Champix Fitness Center for Her.Big Brothers Big Sisters&nbsp;- Bowl For Kids Sake 2026, "ALOHA" theme.Ann Zimmerman -&nbsp;&nbsp;Eight week guitar lessons and group recital at Stiefel Theatre.Salina NAACP&nbsp; - Freedom Fund Banquet.All episodes are recorded and uploaded on the&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?CFID=05fb1ecb-7d68-4542-adb3-9b7c11d9b5e5&amp;CFTOKEN=0&amp;stationCallSign=KINA&amp;onDemandAutoStart=true&amp;p92136680=true&amp;relocateURL=true">910 AM and 107.5 FM KINA website</a>, under the 'KINA Saturday Mornings'&nbsp;tab.

Saturday Morning Show lineup with Dave Foor & Nicolas Fierro, February 14, 2026

The Central High School Theatre program Thespian Troupe 639 was selected by the adjudication committee of the International Thespian Festival to present their fall play Clue (High School Edition) to the 2026 International Thespian Festival in June at the University of Indiana Bloomington.

This honor comes from having their show adjudicated among other productions from around the country and earning one of twelve production spots. Clue (High School Edition) is presented with special arrangements through Dramatists Play Service and Concord Theatricals.

There will be an encore performance date to be announced at a later time. Students are actively fundraising for this trip and this honor. 

I<a href="https://onthestage.tickets/salina-central-high-school/donate">f you would like to donate please do so on the Mustangs Theatre website</a>.

There will also be several fundraising events such as:&nbsp;

- Murder Mystery Dinner and Show at Martinelli’s February 20 &amp; 21&nbsp;<a href="https://our.show/reunionsaremurder">https://our.show/reunionsaremurder</a>

- Krispy Kreme Donuts Fundraiser (current)-delivery March 9.

- Easter Egg Hiding Fundraiser April 4

To keep up with fundraising efforts follow, on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MustangCentralTheatre">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;Instagram @chs_troupe639.

<a href="https://itf.schooltheatre.org/main-stage.cfm">For more information on the International Thespian Festival click here</a>.

<a href="https://playbill.com/article/high-school-editions-of-kimberly-akimbo-suffs-dear-evan-hansen-more-will-play-thespian-festival-main-stage">Click here for an article from Play Bill about the play</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771005515405.jpeg" alt="The Central High School Theatre program Thespian Troupe 639 performing "Clue" (High School edition). Photo by Matea Gregg" />
 <figcaption>The Central High School Theatre program Thespian Troupe 639 performing "Clue" (High School edition). Photo by Matea Gregg</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Central High School&nbsp;The Central High School Theatre program Thespian Troupe 639 was selected by the adjudication committee of the International Thespian Festival to present their fall play Clue (High School Edition) to the 2026 International Thespian Festival in June at the University of Indiana Bloomington. This honor comes from having their show adjudicated among other productions from around the country and earning one of twelve production spots. Clue (High School Edition) is presented with special arrangements through Dramatists Play Service and Concord Theatricals.There will be an encore performance date to be announced at a later time. Students are actively fundraising for this trip and this honor. I<a href="https://onthestage.tickets/salina-central-high-school/donate">f you would like to donate please do so on the Mustangs Theatre website</a>. There will also be several fundraising events such as:&nbsp;- Murder Mystery Dinner and Show at Martinelli’s February 20 &amp; 21&nbsp;<a href="https://our.show/reunionsaremurder">https://our.show/reunionsaremurder</a>- Krispy Kreme Donuts Fundraiser (current)-delivery March 9.- Garage Sale March 19 &amp; 20- Easter Egg Hiding Fundraiser April 4To keep up with fundraising efforts follow, on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MustangCentralTheatre">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;Instagram @chs_troupe639.<a href="https://itf.schooltheatre.org/main-stage.cfm">For more information on the International Thespian Festival click here</a>.<a href="https://playbill.com/article/high-school-editions-of-kimberly-akimbo-suffs-dear-evan-hansen-more-will-play-thespian-festival-main-stage">Click here for an article from Play Bill about the play</a>.

Central High School Theatre's production of "Clue" selected to present play at International Thespian Festival

The Tony's Pizza Events Center (TPEC) has announced the Game Show Road Show, originally scheduled for Friday, February 20 is cancelled.

According to TPEC, due to unforeseen circumstances, the event will no longer be held as planned.

"We understand the disappointment this may cause ticket holders, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience," said TPEC staff.

The Game Show Road Show&nbsp;is a live, interactive entertainment experience designed to engage audiences of all ages. The event also&nbsp;features a stand-up comedy and live trivia.

Refunds will be issued automatically to the original form of payment within 7–10 business days. 

For additional refund questions, guests may contact the Tony’s Pizza Events Center Box Office at 785-826-7200. 

The Box Office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771004436001.jpeg" alt="Tony's Pizza Events Center announces the Game Show Road Show, originally scheduled for for Friday, February 20 is cancelled." />
 <figcaption>Tony's Pizza Events Center announces the Game Show Road Show, originally scheduled for for Friday, February 20 is cancelled.</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina PostThe Tony's Pizza Events Center (TPEC) has announced the Game Show Road Show, originally scheduled for Friday, February 20 is cancelled.According to TPEC, due to unforeseen circumstances, the event will no longer be held as planned."We understand the disappointment this may cause ticket holders, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience," said TPEC staff.The Game Show Road Show&nbsp;is a live, interactive entertainment experience designed to engage audiences of all ages. The event also&nbsp;features a stand-up comedy and live trivia.Refunds will be issued automatically to the original form of payment within 7–10 business days. For additional refund questions, guests may contact the Tony’s Pizza Events Center Box Office at 785-826-7200. The Box Office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Tony's Pizza Events Center announces cancellation of Game Show Road Show

By TISA MASON FHSU president

In the quiet hours before the Kansas sun touches the horizon, Gabrielle Davis is already immersed in her studies. It’s 5 a.m., and while most of the neighborhood is still asleep, Gabrielle is navigating the complex anatomy and pharmacology content she must master in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. 

Across the state line in Arapahoe, Nebraska, Janine Van Niekerk, serving as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in a rural nursing home,&nbsp;is balancing a similarly delicate act.

Janine and Gabrielle are pioneers. As members of the inaugural BSN hybrid (combined on-campus and online) program cohort at Fort Hays State University, they represent a shift in nursing education—one built for people with a deep connection to their hometowns and families, coupled with a purposeful commitment to ensure their rural communities have access to highly trained, compassionate nursing care.

For both women, nursing is a profound calling rooted in an ethic of care. 

Gabrielle, an LPN at the HaysMed walk-in clinic, represents the deep roots of Kansas healthcare. A third-generation nurse, she was inspired by her grandmother, mother, and an uncle, a physician. “I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be a nurse,” Gabrielle says. “Especially watching my mom. She is the nurse that I aspire to be.”

Gabrielle’s resilience was forged during the COVID-19 pandemic. While still in high school, she completed her courses via Zoom and then worked until 10 p.m. at a nursing home in Atwood to help cover staffing shortages. She continues to work there one weekend a month because of the deep bond she shares with the residents. “I don’t want to give up my residents,” she says. “A lot of them I call grandparents. They consider me their grandchild.”

This same dedication drives Janine Van Niekerk. Originally from South Africa, the 45-year-old mother of six now lives in a rural area of Nebraska. 

For her, the FHSU hybrid program provided a way forward that seemed almost tailored to her life. She began her general education courses while still living abroad and was moved by the university's support during her transition back to the States. “Everyone was so helpful in helping me register, so patient in going through my credits,” Janine recalls. “I knew FHSU was the right choice.”

The stories of Janine and Gabrielle are individual threads in a much larger tapestry. Fort Hays State University serves as a primary engine for the Kansas nursing workforce with a simple priority: getting nurses to rural Kansas. The university doesn’t just graduate students; it delivers them where the need is most acute.

Currently, approximately 70% of FHSU BSN graduates and more than 90% of family nurse practitioners go straight to work in rural communities. With 80% of total nursing graduates staying in Kansas, FHSU is a proven, high-yield investment in our state’s future. 

Beyond the classroom, FHSU serves as a regional hub for healthcare excellence, providing guaranteed&nbsp;admission to Kansas community college students and serving as a vital training ground for HaysMed, EagleMed, and 25 critical access hospitals.

The hybrid BSN program is the latest tool in this mission, combining the convenience of online learning with the rigor of on-campus clinical clusters. For Janine, whose husband travels for work, this flexibility is a necessity. “For me, time is vital,” she says. “The hybrid gives me more flexibility with my schedule and everything I’m responsible for.”

Janine’s passion is fueled by a desire to rectify disparities she sees in rural healthcare. “I’m very disappointed in the healthcare system, the more I learn, especially in rural areas,” she explains, noting the high costs of basic lab tests and clinic fees. “Ultimately, what I’ve decided now to do is look into being a legal nurse consultant, so that I can help rectify the wrongs that are so very evident in healthcare.”

Gabrielle similarly integrates her clinical training into the margins of a busy life, studying between serving patients and after shifts. She finds a spiritual anchor in her daily routine. “Before I go to work, I pray about my day,” she says. “I pray for good patient outcomes. I pray that all my patients are safe and healthy. That helps me, or else I get very burned out.”

As the first BSN cohort to navigate this hybrid path, Janine and Gabrielle are doing more than just earning a degree; they are helping FHSU refine the program for future generations. 

Gabrielle is already looking toward the finish line in May 2027 with plans to eventually teach. “It opens up a whole new universe of opportunities,” she says. “We are helping them (the FHSU Hybrid BSN Program) figure out their trials and errors for the future of the program.”

For Tanya Smith, BSN Coordinator and Professor of Nursing, the pride in her first Hybrid BSN cohort is apparent.

“The students are very dedicated to the program and have shown resilience despite growth challenges along the way,” she said. “Each student has had becoming a BSN-prepared RN as a personal goal.”

FHSU’s Hybrid pathway has been the route to achieving this goal.

“The students have expressed many thanks to the Department of Nursing for creating this learning path for the BSN degree,” Tanya shared. “As we continue to grow the Hybrid BSN cohort, we are excited to partner with community hospitals across the state to ensure students are receiving clinical experiences close to home.”

The journey of these program pioneers reflects the heart of the FHSU mission. Through grit and a commitment to innovation, they are preparing to meet their communities' healthcare needs with expertise and empathy. Their progress is a testament to the power of a program designed&nbsp;with people, place, and purpose at its core.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761318630494.jpeg" alt="Tisa Mason. Photo courtesy Fort Hays State University" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason. Photo courtesy Fort Hays State University</figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON FHSU presidentIn the quiet hours before the Kansas sun touches the horizon, Gabrielle Davis is already immersed in her studies. It’s 5 a.m., and while most of the neighborhood is still asleep, Gabrielle is navigating the complex anatomy and pharmacology content she must master in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Across the state line in Arapahoe, Nebraska, Janine Van Niekerk, serving as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in a rural nursing home,&nbsp;is balancing a similarly delicate act.Janine and Gabrielle are pioneers. As members of the inaugural BSN hybrid (combined on-campus and online) program cohort at Fort Hays State University, they represent a shift in nursing education—one built for people with a deep connection to their hometowns and families, coupled with a purposeful commitment to ensure their rural communities have access to highly trained, compassionate nursing care.For both women, nursing is a profound calling rooted in an ethic of care. Gabrielle, an LPN at the HaysMed walk-in clinic, represents the deep roots of Kansas healthcare. A third-generation nurse, she was inspired by her grandmother, mother, and an uncle, a physician. “I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be a nurse,” Gabrielle says. “Especially watching my mom. She is the nurse that I aspire to be.”Gabrielle’s resilience was forged during the COVID-19 pandemic. While still in high school, she completed her courses via Zoom and then worked until 10 p.m. at a nursing home in Atwood to help cover staffing shortages. She continues to work there one weekend a month because of the deep bond she shares with the residents. “I don’t want to give up my residents,” she says. “A lot of them I call grandparents. They consider me their grandchild.”This same dedication drives Janine Van Niekerk. Originally from South Africa, the 45-year-old mother of six now lives in a rural area of Nebraska. For her, the FHSU hybrid program provided a way forward that seemed almost tailored to her life. She began her general education courses while still living abroad and was moved by the university's support during her transition back to the States. “Everyone was so helpful in helping me register, so patient in going through my credits,” Janine recalls. “I knew FHSU was the right choice.”The stories of Janine and Gabrielle are individual threads in a much larger tapestry. Fort Hays State University serves as a primary engine for the Kansas nursing workforce with a simple priority: getting nurses to rural Kansas. The university doesn’t just graduate students; it delivers them where the need is most acute.Currently, approximately 70% of FHSU BSN graduates and more than 90% of family nurse practitioners go straight to work in rural communities. With 80% of total nursing graduates staying in Kansas, FHSU is a proven, high-yield investment in our state’s future. Beyond the classroom, FHSU serves as a regional hub for healthcare excellence, providing guaranteed&nbsp;admission to Kansas community college students and serving as a vital training ground for HaysMed, EagleMed, and 25 critical access hospitals.The hybrid BSN program is the latest tool in this mission, combining the convenience of online learning with the rigor of on-campus clinical clusters. For Janine, whose husband travels for work, this flexibility is a necessity. “For me, time is vital,” she says. “The hybrid gives me more flexibility with my schedule and everything I’m responsible for.”Janine’s passion is fueled by a desire to rectify disparities she sees in rural healthcare. “I’m very disappointed in the healthcare system, the more I learn, especially in rural areas,” she explains, noting the high costs of basic lab tests and clinic fees. “Ultimately, what I’ve decided now to do is look into being a legal nurse consultant, so that I can help rectify the wrongs that are so very evident in healthcare.”Gabrielle similarly integrates her clinical training into the margins of a busy life, studying between serving patients and after shifts. She finds a spiritual anchor in her daily routine. “Before I go to work, I pray about my day,” she says. “I pray for good patient outcomes. I pray that all my patients are safe and healthy. That helps me, or else I get very burned out.”As the first BSN cohort to navigate this hybrid path, Janine and Gabrielle are doing more than just earning a degree; they are helping FHSU refine the program for future generations. Gabrielle is already looking toward the finish line in May 2027 with plans to eventually teach. “It opens up a whole new universe of opportunities,” she says. “We are helping them (the FHSU Hybrid BSN Program) figure out their trials and errors for the future of the program.”For Tanya Smith, BSN Coordinator and Professor of Nursing, the pride in her first Hybrid BSN cohort is apparent.“The students are very dedicated to the program and have shown resilience despite growth challenges along the way,” she said. “Each student has had becoming a BSN-prepared RN as a personal goal.”FHSU’s Hybrid pathway has been the route to achieving this goal.“The students have expressed many thanks to the Department of Nursing for creating this learning path for the BSN degree,” Tanya shared. “As we continue to grow the Hybrid BSN cohort, we are excited to partner with community hospitals across the state to ensure students are receiving clinical experiences close to home.”The journey of these program pioneers reflects the heart of the FHSU mission. Through grit and a commitment to innovation, they are preparing to meet their communities' healthcare needs with expertise and empathy. Their progress is a testament to the power of a program designed&nbsp;with people, place, and purpose at its core.

Saline County Jail Bookings, February 13

Salina Public Library has received a $10,000 gift from&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.carnegie.org/">Carnegie Corporation of New York</a>, the foundation established by Andrew Carnegie.

The award is part of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.carnegie.org/news/articles/hundreds-of-carnegie-libraries-to-receive-10000-gifts-in-celebration-of-united-states-250th-anniversary/">Carnegie Libraries 250</a>, a special initiative celebrating the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and honoring the roughly 1,280 Carnegie Libraries still serving their communities across the United States.

Scottish immigrant Andrew Carnegie funded the construction of 1,681 free public libraries nationwide between 1886 and 1917. Approximately 750 of them continue to use their original buildings, while others have moved to new locations. 

Opened in June 1903 and serving the community until 1968—when a larger library facility was built —Salina’s Carnegie Library was one of 59 libraries in Kansas built through this historic program.&nbsp;

“Salina Public Library was profoundly shaped by Carnegie’s generosity, and that legacy continues even after our move to the current building at 301 W. Elm Street. The Carnegie Library that stood at the corner of Eighth and Iron Street was our home for over six decades, and its influence still defines who we are today,” said Library Director Melanie Hedgespeth

“Our founder, Andrew Carnegie, who championed the free public library movement of the late 19th century, described libraries as ‘cradles of democracy’ that ‘strengthen the democratic idea, the equality of the citizen, and the royalty of man,’” said&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.carnegie.org/about/staff/dame-louise-richardson/">Dame Louise Richardson</a>, president of Carnegie and former head of the University of Oxford. “We still believe this and are delighted to celebrate our connection to the libraries he founded.”&nbsp;

Salina Public Library received the gift in January 2026 and plans to further its mission by utilizing the funds for its <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/de46c048-53e3-49d2-9ae2-f7375470cada">Youth Services remodel</a>, which is currently underway.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634353835637.jpeg" alt="Salina Public Library, 301 W. Elm St." />
 <figcaption>Salina Public Library, 301 W. Elm St.</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Public Library&nbsp;Salina Public Library has received a $10,000 gift from&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.carnegie.org/">Carnegie Corporation of New York</a>, the foundation established by Andrew Carnegie. The award is part of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.carnegie.org/news/articles/hundreds-of-carnegie-libraries-to-receive-10000-gifts-in-celebration-of-united-states-250th-anniversary/">Carnegie Libraries 250</a>, a special initiative celebrating the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and honoring the roughly 1,280 Carnegie Libraries still serving their communities across the United States.Scottish immigrant Andrew Carnegie funded the construction of 1,681 free public libraries nationwide between 1886 and 1917. Approximately 750 of them continue to use their original buildings, while others have moved to new locations. Opened in June 1903 and serving the community until 1968—when a larger library facility was built —Salina’s Carnegie Library was one of 59 libraries in Kansas built through this historic program.&nbsp;“Salina Public Library was profoundly shaped by Carnegie’s generosity, and that legacy continues even after our move to the current building at 301 W. Elm Street. The Carnegie Library that stood at the corner of Eighth and Iron Street was our home for over six decades, and its influence still defines who we are today,” said Library Director Melanie Hedgespeth“Our founder, Andrew Carnegie, who championed the free public library movement of the late 19th century, described libraries as ‘cradles of democracy’ that ‘strengthen the democratic idea, the equality of the citizen, and the royalty of man,’” said&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.carnegie.org/about/staff/dame-louise-richardson/">Dame Louise Richardson</a>, president of Carnegie and former head of the University of Oxford. “We still believe this and are delighted to celebrate our connection to the libraries he founded.”&nbsp;Salina Public Library received the gift in January 2026 and plans to further its mission by utilizing the funds for its <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/de46c048-53e3-49d2-9ae2-f7375470cada">Youth Services remodel</a>, which is currently underway.

Salina Public Library gifted $10,000 from Carnegie Corp., plan to utilize funds towards Youth Services remodel

Salina Police are seeking tips for a male and female suspects connected to stealing backpack at an arcade.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on&nbsp;Thursday, February 5 at around 4:30 pm, a male and a female were at the&nbsp;District Eat &amp; Play (2259 S. 9th) when both reportedly stole a black backpack on a table.

Both suspects left the business after the crime.

SPD stated the backpack belonged to an employee of the business, which contained money and keys. 

If you have any information concerning this incident or identification of the individual involved, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS.

<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#">You can also make an online tip by clicking here</a>.

You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000. Tipsters may also contact SPD at (785) 826-7210, case 2026-2786.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770993494125.png" alt="Tips sought for male and female suspects connected to stealing backpack at District Eat &amp; Play (2259 S. 9th) on February 5. Surveillance video provided by Salina Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Tips sought for male and female suspects connected to stealing backpack at District Eat &amp; Play (2259 S. 9th) on February 5. Surveillance video provided by Salina Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina PostSalina Police are seeking tips for a male and female suspects connected to stealing backpack at an arcade.According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on&nbsp;Thursday, February 5 at around 4:30 pm, a male and a female were at the&nbsp;District Eat &amp; Play (2259 S. 9th) when both reportedly stole a black backpack on a table.Both suspects left the business after the crime.SPD stated the backpack belonged to an employee of the business, which contained money and keys. Total loss was valued at over $1000.If you have any information concerning this incident or identification of the individual involved, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS. <a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#">You can also make an online tip by clicking here</a>. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000. Tipsters may also contact SPD at (785) 826-7210, case 2026-2786.

Tips sought for male and female suspects connected to stealing backpack at arcade

Salina PD arrest two teenagers after burglarizing a convenience store.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on the early morning hours of Friday, an officer on routine patrol observed the front door glass of Rod’s 5 (680 S. Phillips) shattered. 

Officers searched the business and determined a burglary had occurred and numerous vapes had been stolen from the building. Officers also located blood near the broken glass. 

Salina Regional Health Center was then alerted and asked to contact law enforcement if anyone arrived to the hospital with lacerations. 

Shortly after, the hospital reported a 17-year-old male arrived with a laceration to his arm. Officers spoke with the male who confirmed he had broken into the business along with a 16-year-old male. The 17-year old was then taken into custody.

Subsequently, officers went to the residence of both suspects located in the 600 block of Gypsum where they took the second male into custody and recovered the stolen vapes. 

Both suspects are facing the requested charges of Burglary, Felony Theft and Damage to property.

Total cost of theft and damage to the business was valued at $2,000

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574271818216.jpeg" alt="Salina Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Salina Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina PostSalina PD arrest two teenagers after burglarizing a convenience store.According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on the early morning hours of Friday, an officer on routine patrol observed the front door glass of Rod’s 5 (680 S. Phillips) shattered. Officers searched the business and determined a burglary had occurred and numerous vapes had been stolen from the building. Officers also located blood near the broken glass. Salina Regional Health Center was then alerted and asked to contact law enforcement if anyone arrived to the hospital with lacerations. Shortly after, the hospital reported a 17-year-old male arrived with a laceration to his arm. Officers spoke with the male who confirmed he had broken into the business along with a 16-year-old male. The 17-year old was then taken into custody.Subsequently, officers went to the residence of both suspects located in the 600 block of Gypsum where they took the second male into custody and recovered the stolen vapes. Both suspects are facing the requested charges of Burglary, Felony Theft and Damage to property.Total cost of theft and damage to the business was valued at $2,000

Two teenagers burglarize convenience store before arrest

<a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Salina&amp;state=KS&amp;site=ICT&amp;lat=38.8158&amp;lon=-97.6178">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Monitor local weather updates frequently in multiple ways by listening to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/nwr/">NOAA Weather Radio</a>, checking local news and emergency notifications. You can also stay informed by following Saline County and the National Weather Service on social media.

For the latest forecast updates, visit the National Weather Service Wichita office at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">https://www.weather.gov/ict/</a>. To check forecasts frequently, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">weather.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770952441704.png" alt="Three day weather forecast Salina, February 13 - February 15. Courtesy of US National Weather Service" />
 <figcaption>Three day weather forecast Salina, February 13 - February 15. Courtesy of US National Weather Service</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Salina&amp;state=KS&amp;site=ICT&amp;lat=38.8158&amp;lon=-97.6178">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>Monitor local weather updates frequently in multiple ways by listening to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/nwr/">NOAA Weather Radio</a>, checking local news and emergency notifications. You can also stay informed by following Saline County and the National Weather Service on social media.For the latest forecast updates, visit the National Weather Service Wichita office at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">https://www.weather.gov/ict/</a>. To check forecasts frequently, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">weather.gov</a>.

Three day weather forecast Salina, February 13 - February 15

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

Salina Post understands the importance of honoring the deceased and welcomes all submissions of obituaries with a full summary of their life, survivors, services, website of the funeral home and a photo.

Salina Post accepts all obituaries&nbsp;free of charge&nbsp;and you can email all obituaries:&nbsp;<a href="https://newstips@salinapost.com/">newstips@salinapost.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com">nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;and will be posted on the website within 24 business hours.

If you have an issue outside of business hours, if your obituary has not been published within 24 business hours, or if have any questions, please email:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://newstips@salinapost.com/">newstips@salinapost.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com">nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1561995642681.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.<h2>Salina Post obituary policy</h2>Salina Post understands the importance of honoring the deceased and welcomes all submissions of obituaries with a full summary of their life, survivors, services, website of the funeral home and a photo.Salina Post accepts all obituaries&nbsp;free of charge&nbsp;and you can email all obituaries:&nbsp;<a href="https://newstips@salinapost.com/">newstips@salinapost.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com">nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;and will be posted on the website within 24 business hours.If you have an issue outside of business hours, if your obituary has not been published within 24 business hours, or if have any questions, please email:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://newstips@salinapost.com/">newstips@salinapost.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com">nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com</a>

Recent obituaries and service times, how to submit an obituary

Three Salina USD 305 educators were recognized, as one achieves Master Teacher and two receive awards.

Salina Public Schools Recognizes Horizon Teachers

Salina Public Schools (SPS) recognized two Horizon Teachers at the February 10 Board of Education meeting. An elementary and a secondary teacher is selected each year for the Horizon Award and recognized for excellence during their first full year of teaching.

Elementary Horizon Award ­– Grace Baughman, Pre-K Teacher

Grace teaches Pre-K at Heusner Elementary School and is known for her warm, empathetic and caring personality, as well as her ability to create consistent and strong connections with her students and their families.

Grace’s teaching style features engaging, creative and developmentally appropriate lessons that balance academic rigor with opportunities for play-based, fun learning. Her classroom is well organized and thoughtfully arranged to foster student independence, support inclusion, promote confidence and aid in smooth transitions.

Positivity, compassion and creativity radiate throughout Grace’s classroom. From establishing clear routines and teaching through themed lessons to incorporating hands-on activities, classroom stations and a commitment to social-emotional and visible learning, Grace enriches her students with experiences and practices that prepare them with essential life skills.

Grace is a South High School alumni and a past LIFT recipient. She attended Hutchinson Community College and Wichita State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in early childhood unified and elementary education. She continues to further her education by attending professional development conferences and implementing those learnings in her classroom.

Secondary Horizon Award ­– Gavin Blehm, Band Director

Gavin is the band director at South Middle School and the assistant band director at South High School. He holds high regard for open communication with his students, taking time to build relationships and create a classroom centered on mutual respect, belonging, accountability and passion.

Gavin approaches his teaching with a variety of instructional strategies, including an emphasis on bringing abstract concepts into the physical realm and deepening students’ understanding and interaction through interactive activities such as marching to the tempo to master rhythm, clapping and counting in relation to the beat of the music and peer assessment and check-ins that create a sense of community and boost confidence and trust among his students.

Gavin attended Fort Hays State University, where he earned bachelor’s degrees in music education, secondary education and trumpet performance. He continued his education by earning a master’s degree in trumpet performance from the University of North Texas. As a Salina Public Schools (SPS) alumni, he now has the opportunity to serve SPS students alongside South Bands’ colleague Darren Brooks, his first trumpet teacher during his seventh through ninth grade years.

Kim Warren, SPS Master Teacher, Recognized by Board of Education

Members of NEA-Salina selected Kim Warren, Journalism Adviser and Business Teacher at South High School, as Salina Public Schools’ 2026 Master Teacher.

Kim holds a bachelor’s degree from Kansas State University and a Master of Business Administration degree from Kansas Wesleyan University. She has taught for a total of 33 years, with 27 of those years at South High School (SHS).

Kim currently teaches 21st Century Journalism, Graphic Design 2D, Graphic Design Digital and Accounting. She advises both the school newspaper and yearbook staffs and serves as the business and communications department chair, a SHS building leadership team member and freshman class sponsor. She is also a member of the Kansas Scholastic Press Association, a former KSPA executive board member, a Journalism Education Association member and an NEA-Salina member.

Kim enjoys seeing her students showcase their creativity while growing their leadership, technology and communication skills through the production of the online and print newspapers and the yearbook. She cherishes the opportunity to be part of students leaving a legacy for SHS through their work.

Outside of school, Kim spends her free time traveling, camping and keeping up on all things K-State athletics with her husband, Dee. She is proud to have deep roots within the Salina Public Schools’ (SPS) community, with two adult children who are products of SPS, having attended Heusner Elementary School, South Middle School and South High School.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770952112515.png" alt="Three Salina USD 305 educators recognized. Left to right: Grace Baughman, Gavin Blehm, Kim Warren" />
 <figcaption>Three Salina USD 305 educators recognized. Left to right: Grace Baughman, Gavin Blehm, Kim Warren</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina USD 305Three Salina USD 305 educators were recognized, as one achieves Master Teacher and two receive awards.<h2>Salina Public Schools Recognizes Horizon Teachers</h2>Salina Public Schools (SPS) recognized two Horizon Teachers at the February 10 Board of Education meeting. An elementary and a secondary teacher is selected each year for the Horizon Award and recognized for excellence during their first full year of teaching.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770952149220.jpeg" alt="Grace Baughman, Pre-K Teacher at Heusner Elementary School. Courtesy of USD 305" />
 <figcaption>Grace Baughman, Pre-K Teacher at Heusner Elementary School. Courtesy of USD 305</figcaption>
 </figure>Elementary Horizon Award ­– Grace Baughman, Pre-K TeacherGrace teaches Pre-K at Heusner Elementary School and is known for her warm, empathetic and caring personality, as well as her ability to create consistent and strong connections with her students and their families.Grace’s teaching style features engaging, creative and developmentally appropriate lessons that balance academic rigor with opportunities for play-based, fun learning. Her classroom is well organized and thoughtfully arranged to foster student independence, support inclusion, promote confidence and aid in smooth transitions.Positivity, compassion and creativity radiate throughout Grace’s classroom. From establishing clear routines and teaching through themed lessons to incorporating hands-on activities, classroom stations and a commitment to social-emotional and visible learning, Grace enriches her students with experiences and practices that prepare them with essential life skills.Grace is a South High School alumni and a past LIFT recipient. She attended Hutchinson Community College and Wichita State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in early childhood unified and elementary education. She continues to further her education by attending professional development conferences and implementing those learnings in her classroom.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770952172840.jpeg" alt="Gavin Blehm, Band Director at South Middle School. Courtesy of USD 305&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Gavin Blehm, Band Director at South Middle School. Courtesy of USD 305&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Secondary Horizon Award ­– Gavin Blehm, Band DirectorGavin is the band director at South Middle School and the assistant band director at South High School. He holds high regard for open communication with his students, taking time to build relationships and create a classroom centered on mutual respect, belonging, accountability and passion.Gavin approaches his teaching with a variety of instructional strategies, including an emphasis on bringing abstract concepts into the physical realm and deepening students’ understanding and interaction through interactive activities such as marching to the tempo to master rhythm, clapping and counting in relation to the beat of the music and peer assessment and check-ins that create a sense of community and boost confidence and trust among his students.Gavin attended Fort Hays State University, where he earned bachelor’s degrees in music education, secondary education and trumpet performance. He continued his education by earning a master’s degree in trumpet performance from the University of North Texas. As a Salina Public Schools (SPS) alumni, he now has the opportunity to serve SPS students alongside South Bands’ colleague Darren Brooks, his first trumpet teacher during his seventh through ninth grade years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770952200128.jpeg" alt="Kim Warren, Journalism Adviser and Business Teacher at South High School. Courtesy of USD 305&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kim Warren, Journalism Adviser and Business Teacher at South High School. Courtesy of USD 305&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Kim Warren, SPS Master Teacher, Recognized by Board of Education</h2>Members of NEA-Salina selected Kim Warren, Journalism Adviser and Business Teacher at South High School, as Salina Public Schools’ 2026 Master Teacher.Kim holds a bachelor’s degree from Kansas State University and a Master of Business Administration degree from Kansas Wesleyan University. She has taught for a total of 33 years, with 27 of those years at South High School (SHS).Kim currently teaches 21st Century Journalism, Graphic Design 2D, Graphic Design Digital and Accounting. She advises both the school newspaper and yearbook staffs and serves as the business and communications department chair, a SHS building leadership team member and freshman class sponsor. She is also a member of the Kansas Scholastic Press Association, a former KSPA executive board member, a Journalism Education Association member and an NEA-Salina member.Kim enjoys seeing her students showcase their creativity while growing their leadership, technology and communication skills through the production of the online and print newspapers and the yearbook. She cherishes the opportunity to be part of students leaving a legacy for SHS through their work.Outside of school, Kim spends her free time traveling, camping and keeping up on all things K-State athletics with her husband, Dee. She is proud to have deep roots within the Salina Public Schools’ (SPS) community, with two adult children who are products of SPS, having attended Heusner Elementary School, South Middle School and South High School.

Three USD 305 educators recognized: One achieves Master Teacher and two receive awards

The Kansas Supreme Court has announced they will hear an ongoing case in a special session on March 10, 2026 in Abilene at the&nbsp;Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library (200 SE 4th St.).

The case is&nbsp;State of Kansas ex rel. Kansas Highway Patrol (appellee) v. $381,620.00 and Bryce Robert Fuleki (appellant).&nbsp;

The court will be in session from&nbsp;6:30 pm to about 7:30 pm.

On May 2020 at around 11:45 pm, a Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) trooper stopped Bryce Fuleki for a traffic violation on I-70 near Salina. The trooper noticed Fuleki traveled through fog several times and was concerned about driver impairment.

Fuleki was operating a rental vehicle and the trooper asked him questions, which the trooper believed Fuleki's responses were inconsistent. The trooper also detected signs of nervousness from Fuleki.

During this time, Fuleki could not find a copy of his rental agreement. The trooper then asked him to stand outside of the vehicle, as his license information and issuance of warning was being ran.

Furthermore, the trooper suspected Fuleki was transporting contraband. However, the trooper told him everything ran smoothly with his license and issued him the warning. As Fuleki was walking back to the vehicle, the trooper asked to speak more with him.&nbsp;

Fuleki agreed to and the trooper questioned him about the contents of his vehicle, as he then asked for consent to search.

The trooper then directed Fuleki to stand at the side of the road and informed him he was being detained until a drug canine could sniff the vehicle.

A Salina PD officer responded to the scene with the canine and alerted something inside the vehicle. The trooper then searched and found a suitcase. Fuleki was asked if the suitcase belonged to him and he said it belonged to a friend.

Afterwards, the trooper opened the suitcase and discovered a total of 11 vacuum sealed packages of cash. The trooper then confiscated the cash and took it to the KHP headquarters in Salina.&nbsp;

The cash confiscated was a total of $381,620.

Throughout the span of this case, KHP brought a civil forfeiture proceeding (legal process where law enforcement seizes property, in this case, cash suspected of being connected to criminal activity, allowing the government to take ownership without charging or convicting the owner of the crime). However, Fuleki appeared through counsel to file a motion to suppress the seizure of the suitcase filled with cash. Also, in the civil forfeiture proceeding, Fuleki filed a claim for the money.

He also filed a motion to suppress all evidence from the traffic stop claiming it was unlawful. The district court decided Fuleki could not claim the seized money because he did not have standing after saying it was not his both verbally and in writing. The court did not consider whether the traffic stop was valid. 

On appeal, the Court of Appeals found that Fuleki was the only person who had a right to challenge the traffic stop and detention. Also, that it was an error when the district court did not first consider Fuleki’s motion to suppress evidence before it decided Fuleki did not have standing to claim the money. The Court of Appeals reversed the decision and sent the case back with instructions for the district court to examine whether law enforcement actions were legal before it considers whether Fuleki has standing to claim the money. The State appealed. 

The issue on review is whether the district court was correct when it determined Fuleki lacked standing to claim the seized money, because he never said it was his.

<a href="https://searchdro.kscourts.gov/documents/pdf/caseDecisions/1edfe30a-8ad3-4fcd-8f37-046fd1783899_126167.pdf">Click here to read the full contents of the case.</a>

The public is invited to attend the special session to observe the court as it hears oral argument in one case. After oral argument, the justices will greet the public in an informal reception.

“We invite the people of Abilene and surrounding communities to join us at the Eisenhower Presidential Library to hear this case,” Chief Justice Eric Rosen said. “It’s a great way to get to know our court, what we do, and how we do it. Plus, we want to meet you in the reception afterward.”

What to know before attending the hearing

Anyone who wants to attend the special session in person should plan to arrive early to allow time to get through security screening. 

Court security offers these guidelines to ease the screening process:

Audience members must not talk during oral argument because it interferes with the attorneys’ remarks and questions asked by justices. Talking immediately outside the room where oral argument will take place is also discouraged.

If someone arrives after proceedings start, or must leave the auditorium before it ends, they should be as quiet as possible entering and exiting the auditorium.

The special session will also be streamed live online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://go.kansascourts.gov/l/OpmCcb86Edsp6VTeLqGiwV9t8VjzByxxTGmjlKoUxw8iOrsyltZxn0nLwaS1XFDjcd5r4k_-FANUkhWzCzOcj3Znkh_vsPaylmUucJPQJ634PQh4IrXoW3bUgm1QtidpufqPNyKhw5Tsz4eSVe9MkQ">www.YouTube.com/KansasSupremeCourt</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763052271186.jpeg" alt="Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum in Abilene, KS. Photo by Travel Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum in Abilene, KS. Photo by Travel Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina PostThe Kansas Supreme Court has announced they will hear an ongoing case in a special session on March 10, 2026 in Abilene at the&nbsp;Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library (200 SE 4th St.).The case is&nbsp;State of Kansas ex rel. Kansas Highway Patrol (appellee) v. $381,620.00 and Bryce Robert Fuleki (appellant).&nbsp;The court will be in session from&nbsp;6:30 pm to about 7:30 pm.Doors open at 5:30 pm.<h2>Background of case</h2>On May 2020 at around 11:45 pm, a Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) trooper stopped Bryce Fuleki for a traffic violation on I-70 near Salina. The trooper noticed Fuleki traveled through fog several times and was concerned about driver impairment.Fuleki was operating a rental vehicle and the trooper asked him questions, which the trooper believed Fuleki's responses were inconsistent. The trooper also detected signs of nervousness from Fuleki.During this time, Fuleki could not find a copy of his rental agreement. The trooper then asked him to stand outside of the vehicle, as his license information and issuance of warning was being ran.Furthermore, the trooper suspected Fuleki was transporting contraband. However, the trooper told him everything ran smoothly with his license and issued him the warning. As Fuleki was walking back to the vehicle, the trooper asked to speak more with him.&nbsp;Fuleki agreed to and the trooper questioned him about the contents of his vehicle, as he then asked for consent to search.However, Fuleki denied consent.The trooper then directed Fuleki to stand at the side of the road and informed him he was being detained until a drug canine could sniff the vehicle.A Salina PD officer responded to the scene with the canine and alerted something inside the vehicle. The trooper then searched and found a suitcase. Fuleki was asked if the suitcase belonged to him and he said it belonged to a friend.Afterwards, the trooper opened the suitcase and discovered a total of 11 vacuum sealed packages of cash. The trooper then confiscated the cash and took it to the KHP headquarters in Salina.&nbsp;The cash confiscated was a total of $381,620.Throughout the span of this case, KHP brought a civil forfeiture proceeding (legal process where law enforcement seizes property, in this case, cash suspected of being connected to criminal activity, allowing the government to take ownership without charging or convicting the owner of the crime). However, Fuleki appeared through counsel to file a motion to suppress the seizure of the suitcase filled with cash. Also, in the civil forfeiture proceeding, Fuleki filed a claim for the money.He also filed a motion to suppress all evidence from the traffic stop claiming it was unlawful. The district court decided Fuleki could not claim the seized money because he did not have standing after saying it was not his both verbally and in writing. The court did not consider whether the traffic stop was valid. On appeal, the Court of Appeals found that Fuleki was the only person who had a right to challenge the traffic stop and detention. Also, that it was an error when the district court did not first consider Fuleki’s motion to suppress evidence before it decided Fuleki did not have standing to claim the money. The Court of Appeals reversed the decision and sent the case back with instructions for the district court to examine whether law enforcement actions were legal before it considers whether Fuleki has standing to claim the money. The State appealed. The issue on review is whether the district court was correct when it determined Fuleki lacked standing to claim the seized money, because he never said it was his.<a href="https://searchdro.kscourts.gov/documents/pdf/caseDecisions/1edfe30a-8ad3-4fcd-8f37-046fd1783899_126167.pdf">Click here to read the full contents of the case.</a>The public is invited to attend the special session to observe the court as it hears oral argument in one case. After oral argument, the justices will greet the public in an informal reception.“We invite the people of Abilene and surrounding communities to join us at the Eisenhower Presidential Library to hear this case,” Chief Justice Eric Rosen said. “It’s a great way to get to know our court, what we do, and how we do it. Plus, we want to meet you in the reception afterward.”<h2>What to know before attending the hearing</h2>Anyone who wants to attend the special session in person should plan to arrive early to allow time to get through security screening. Court security offers these guidelines to ease the screening process:<ul>
 <li>Do not bring food or drink.</li><li>Do not bring large bags, large purses, backpacks, computer cases, or briefcases. Small handbags are permitted.</li><li>Do not bring knives, pepper spray, firearms, or weapons.</li><li>Do not bring electronic devices such as laptop computers, handheld games, personal digital assistants, or tablets. If you must carry a cell phone, turn it off and store it out of sight while court is in session.</li>
 </ul>Decorum during oral argumentAudience members must not talk during oral argument because it interferes with the attorneys’ remarks and questions asked by justices. Talking immediately outside the room where oral argument will take place is also discouraged.If someone arrives after proceedings start, or must leave the auditorium before it ends, they should be as quiet as possible entering and exiting the auditorium.The special session will also be streamed live online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://go.kansascourts.gov/l/OpmCcb86Edsp6VTeLqGiwV9t8VjzByxxTGmjlKoUxw8iOrsyltZxn0nLwaS1XFDjcd5r4k_-FANUkhWzCzOcj3Znkh_vsPaylmUucJPQJ634PQh4IrXoW3bUgm1QtidpufqPNyKhw5Tsz4eSVe9MkQ">www.YouTube.com/KansasSupremeCourt</a>.

KS Supreme Court to hear ongoing case at Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library in Abilene

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement have arrested four suspects after a drug bust in Dickinson County.

In January of 2026, the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit began an investigation into the distribution of Methamphetamine in Enterprise, Kansas. The approximate month-long investigation, resulted in arrests and seizure of illicit narcotics, according to a media release from the Dickinson County Sheriff.

On February 11, the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant in the 200 Block of South Garfield Street in Enterprise, Kansas. A search of the residence revealed Methamphetamine, Drug Paraphernalia, Cocaine, Marijuana, and other controlled substances.

Alexandria Houk, 37, of Enterprise, Kansas was arrested and booked into the Dickinson County Jail on requested charges of Possession of Fentanyl with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Methamphetamine with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute, Distribution of Drug Paraphernalia and No Drug Tax Stamp

Leon Houk, 41, of Enterprise, Kansas was arrested and booked into the Dickinson County Jail on requested charges of Possession of Fentanyl with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Methamphetamine with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute, Distribution of Drug Paraphernalia and No Drug Tax Stamp.

Robert Quist, 57, of Enterprise, Kansas was arrested and booked into the Dickinson County Jail on requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Dorothea Bishop, 68, of Enterprise, Kansas was arrested and booked into the Dickinson County Jail on requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770929373417.png" alt="Houk photo Dickinson County" />
 <figcaption>Houk photo Dickinson County</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement have arrested four suspects after a drug bust in Dickinson County.In January of 2026, the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit began an investigation into the distribution of Methamphetamine in Enterprise, Kansas. The approximate month-long investigation, resulted in arrests and seizure of illicit narcotics, according to a media release from the Dickinson County Sheriff.On February 11, the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant in the 200 Block of South Garfield Street in Enterprise, Kansas. A search of the residence revealed Methamphetamine, Drug Paraphernalia, Cocaine, Marijuana, and other controlled substances.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770929262467.png" alt="Houk photo Dickinson County" />
 <figcaption>Houk photo Dickinson County</figcaption>
 </figure>Alexandria Houk, 37, of Enterprise, Kansas was arrested and booked into the Dickinson County Jail on requested charges of Possession of Fentanyl with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Methamphetamine with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute, Distribution of Drug Paraphernalia and No Drug Tax StampLeon Houk, 41, of Enterprise, Kansas was arrested and booked into the Dickinson County Jail on requested charges of Possession of Fentanyl with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Methamphetamine with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute, Distribution of Drug Paraphernalia and No Drug Tax Stamp.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770929307383.png" alt="Quist photo Dickinson County" />
 <figcaption>Quist photo Dickinson County</figcaption>
 </figure>Robert Quist, 57, of Enterprise, Kansas was arrested and booked into the Dickinson County Jail on requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770929435150.png" alt="Bishop-photo Dickinson County" />
 <figcaption>Bishop-photo Dickinson County</figcaption>
 </figure>Dorothea Bishop, 68, of Enterprise, Kansas was arrested and booked into the Dickinson County Jail on requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Fentanyl dealer jailed after Kansas drug bust

Rolling Hills Zoo is looking for you to join their team

They are hiring for a limited number of seasonal positions including gift shop and admissions, tram drivers, landscape and restaurant team members.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589222815552.jpeg" alt="Rolling Hills Zoo gate" />
 <figcaption>Rolling Hills Zoo gate</figcaption>
 </figure>Rolling Hills Zoo is looking for you to join their teamThey are hiring for a limited number of seasonal positions including gift shop and admissions, tram drivers, landscape and restaurant team members.Employment begins as early as March but is flexible for high school and college students.Qualifications include excellent people skills, available to work weekends and Holidays, and must be 16 years of age or older.There's no better place to spend your summer so don't delayRolling Hills Zoo is a drug-free workplace and values diversity in our workforce.<a href="https://www.rollinghillszoo.org/employment">For more details and to apply go click here</a>.

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