Those who attended Salina Public Library’s Summer Kickoff Party on Friday evening were the first to hear Director Melanie Hedgespeth and Assistant Director Amy Adams unveil the Re-Imagining Our Library Youth Services Capital Campaign.&nbsp;

“We couldn’t think of a better time to unveil this project because it will make the transformation of the library’s Youth Services department possible and if you are here today we know you understand the value of the library for children and teens,” Hedgespeth said during the announcement

The project will include the addition of a youth programming room, an additional meeting room, a nursing room for mothers, a dedicated teen space, upgrades to bathrooms and more improvements throughout the lower level of the library. This space was last renovated 27 years ago in 1997. Since then, the space has faced wear and tear while technology, programming and the community have continued to grow and evolve.&nbsp;

Salina Public Library understands that they play a pivotal role in the lives of youth in Saline County. From the educational programming to the after-school snacks, they have been a safe and welcoming space for children and families for years. They provided 9,553 school library cards to students, delivered 3,940 items to local childcare providers, hosted nearly 715 youth and teen programs and so much more just in the last year. With the remodel of Youth Services, they aim to create a space that better serves patrons for years to come.&nbsp;

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/ad8ad756-7606-4915-8909-dc1e1a48f832">LIVE Area KSHSAA State Track Results</a>

The estimated cost of the project is $3.6 million dollars, of which $1.2 million dollars has already been donated. The library would like to give a special thank you to their Benefactor Sponsors the Middlekauff Foundation, Mccune Foundation and Earl Bane Foundation. The library has invested half a million dollars of its budget and is calling on the community to help this project become a reality.&nbsp;

To learn more about the project or to make a donation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://salinapubliclibrary.org/re-imagining-our-library">salinapubliclibrary.org/re-imagining-our-library</a>&nbsp;or call Allyson, Head of Fundraising, at 785-833-9211.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716648175134.jpeg" alt="A rendering of the upgrades to the lower levels of the Salina Public Library unveiled during Salina Public Library’s Summer Kickoff Party on Friday, May 24. Graphic courtesy Salina Public Library" />
 <figcaption>A rendering of the upgrades to the lower levels of the Salina Public Library unveiled during Salina Public Library’s Summer Kickoff Party on Friday, May 24. Graphic courtesy Salina Public Library</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThose who attended Salina Public Library’s Summer Kickoff Party on Friday evening were the first to hear Director Melanie Hedgespeth and Assistant Director Amy Adams unveil the Re-Imagining Our Library Youth Services Capital Campaign.&nbsp;“We couldn’t think of a better time to unveil this project because it will make the transformation of the library’s Youth Services department possible and if you are here today we know you understand the value of the library for children and teens,” Hedgespeth said during the announcement<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716648287519.png" alt="Renderings of the Youth Programming Room by Hutton Construction unveiled during the Salina Public Library’s Summer Kickoff Party on Friday, May 24. Graphic courtesy Salina Public Library" />
 <figcaption>Renderings of the Youth Programming Room by Hutton Construction unveiled during the Salina Public Library’s Summer Kickoff Party on Friday, May 24. Graphic courtesy Salina Public Library</figcaption>
 </figure>The project will include the addition of a youth programming room, an additional meeting room, a nursing room for mothers, a dedicated teen space, upgrades to bathrooms and more improvements throughout the lower level of the library. This space was last renovated 27 years ago in 1997. Since then, the space has faced wear and tear while technology, programming and the community have continued to grow and evolve.&nbsp;Salina Public Library understands that they play a pivotal role in the lives of youth in Saline County. From the educational programming to the after-school snacks, they have been a safe and welcoming space for children and families for years. They provided 9,553 school library cards to students, delivered 3,940 items to local childcare providers, hosted nearly 715 youth and teen programs and so much more just in the last year. With the remodel of Youth Services, they aim to create a space that better serves patrons for years to come.&nbsp;READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/ad8ad756-7606-4915-8909-dc1e1a48f832">LIVE Area KSHSAA State Track Results</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716648241501.jpeg" alt="A rendering of the upgrades to the lower levels of the Salina Public Library unveiled during Salina Public Library’s Summer Kickoff Party on Friday, May 24. Graphic courtesy Salina Public Library" />
 <figcaption>A rendering of the upgrades to the lower levels of the Salina Public Library unveiled during Salina Public Library’s Summer Kickoff Party on Friday, May 24. Graphic courtesy Salina Public Library</figcaption>
 </figure>The estimated cost of the project is $3.6 million dollars, of which $1.2 million dollars has already been donated. The library would like to give a special thank you to their Benefactor Sponsors the Middlekauff Foundation, Mccune Foundation and Earl Bane Foundation. The library has invested half a million dollars of its budget and is calling on the community to help this project become a reality.&nbsp;To learn more about the project or to make a donation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://salinapubliclibrary.org/re-imagining-our-library">salinapubliclibrary.org/re-imagining-our-library</a>&nbsp;or call Allyson, Head of Fundraising, at 785-833-9211.

Salina Public Library announces capital campaign for youth services remodel

The journey from a potential genetic cross to the latest released wheat variety requires years of testing by public and private wheat breeders. They keep their eye on every aspect of agronomic performance&nbsp;from&nbsp;disease resistance to standability. Equally important is the partnership between wheat breeders and the Wheat Quality Lab at Kansas State University. Researchers at the lab help streamline the wheat breeding process by ensuring only lines with acceptable or superior milling and baking performance become the varieties Kansas wheat producers eventually plant and harvest.&nbsp;

“Agronomic performance and end-use quality are both critically important when selecting wheat varieties for commercial production,” said Aaron Harries, Kansas Wheat vice president of research and operations. “Supported by the two-penny-per-bushel wheat checkoff, the Kansas Wheat Quality Lab provides breeders, researchers and producers with the information they need to select which wheat lines to advance and which varieties to grow.”

Breeders like Guorong Zhang, K-State wheat breeder based at the K-State Agricultural Research Center in Hays, create about 800 new experimental lines each year - the critical step in a decade-long research process.&nbsp;However, not all of these lines have acceptable flour and baking qualities. Early sorting of which lines do or do not meet those standards saves time and cost for further testing down the road.&nbsp;

“Quality is an important trait for breeders; we don’t want to release a variety with poor quality,” Zhang said. “Thanks to the lab, they can evaluate all our advanced breeding lines. Based on the lab testing, we can see the lines with poor quality, and we will not continue those lines.”

The Kansas Wheat Quality Lab&nbsp;annually&nbsp;tests 350 to 400 advanced lines from the K-State wheat breeding programs.&nbsp;It takes until year five in the breeding program to have enough seed to run preliminary quality tests like protein content and mixograph. But, as lines go through more field testing, more seeds are harvested from each line, allowing for more extensive quality evaluations.&nbsp;

“Breeders can select for factors that determine agronomic performance, but milling and baking performance has to&nbsp;be tested&nbsp;in the lab,” said Yonghui Li, director of the Wheat Quality Lab.&nbsp;“These tests require specialized equipment&nbsp;along with training&nbsp;and experience to determine milling and baking quality.”

A sample consists of 1,000 grams of wheat. The lab first looks at the sample using near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy technology. These tests allow researchers to examine protein quantity and test the moisture content of the grain.&nbsp;

Researchers then temper the grain - or add a little bit of water to help make the milling process easier. Then, the sample&nbsp;is milled&nbsp;to separate the bran - the external coating of the wheat kernel - from the endosperm - the white part of the wheat kernel that becomes white flour. This resulting flour sample&nbsp;is tested&nbsp;too&nbsp;- looking at color and how much flour can&nbsp;be produced&nbsp;from the sample - the higher the amount, the better for millers.&nbsp;

The testing then progresses to looking at protein quantity and quality and dough properties. Tests like the mixograph and farinograph determine dough-mixing properties like water absorbance, mixing stability and more.&nbsp;

The final step is to take the flour, add water, yeast, sugar and salt and bake a pup loaf of bread, following standard protocols. Researchers then examine the quality of that bread - from the volume of the loaf to the crumb.&nbsp;

The combined results of these tests&nbsp;are given&nbsp;back to K-State wheat breeders, who use the information to help determine which lines to advance in their breeding programs. The milling and baking tests&nbsp;are repeated&nbsp;each year as lines are in the advanced stages of the program, meaning by the time a variety is released, breeders have four to five years of quality data available.&nbsp;

In addition to experimental lines, the lab tests 30 to 40 samples each year as a final evaluation before they are released by public and private wheat breeders throughout the Great Plains.&nbsp;The results are submitted&nbsp;back&nbsp;to the Wheat Quality Council, which compiles the results into an annual report.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;main&nbsp;funding for the lab’s operations - necessary equipment&nbsp;maintenance along with a&nbsp;full-time staff member and a team of undergraduate student workers - comes from the Kansas wheat checkoff.&nbsp;In turn, the lab helps support the reputation of Kansas wheat as having high-quality wheat, creating more opportunities in domestic and international markets.&nbsp;

“With those checkoff dollars, we can evaluate quality each year and work with our breeders to create those best-performing varieties for Kansas,” Li said.&nbsp;“In turn, when producers choose varieties with better end-use quality, it improves&nbsp;the&nbsp;overall quality and marketability&nbsp;of Kansas wheat.”&nbsp;

Learn more about the K-State Wheat Quality Lab at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ei9KAVE6goTagmwp98l5wK7cqRdgS0E416LOV6gLQruEVdlJTyGBIcNPFAX1AXcsgXs5NIqMtVZEXFqb8FB50hdxGwKCNFywohaBZ8zbdfWOlvfH9Kx20E8OqSyEAWWz8ZyM4WbUvZbsW_ELimN2SViUvwY_Bd-RQDWt7E6FO0oL26ZgDSwvDnHcIVC1uR0PqjtRCH-4hb0=&amp;c=ddVq53V-0T2La2USwPP2peuYVZfeRjmfFiGu7cL-VyELaLBLa0Mp8Q==&amp;ch=h78TqEWQ85SPZICHZ5u7P8hlVenfNsrBV_i7K_rWNLPcq6s8rHqWmQ==" target="_blank">https://www.grains.k-state.edu/facilities/wheatqualitylab/.&nbsp;</a>

Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684771413683.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The journey from a potential genetic cross to the latest released wheat variety requires years of testing by public and private wheat breeders. They keep their eye on every aspect of agronomic performance&nbsp;from&nbsp;disease resistance to standability. Equally important is the partnership between wheat breeders and the Wheat Quality Lab at Kansas State University. Researchers at the lab help streamline the wheat breeding process by ensuring only lines with acceptable or superior milling and baking performance become the varieties Kansas wheat producers eventually plant and harvest.&nbsp;“Agronomic performance and end-use quality are both critically important when selecting wheat varieties for commercial production,” said Aaron Harries, Kansas Wheat vice president of research and operations. “Supported by the two-penny-per-bushel wheat checkoff, the Kansas Wheat Quality Lab provides breeders, researchers and producers with the information they need to select which wheat lines to advance and which varieties to grow.”Breeders like Guorong Zhang, K-State wheat breeder based at the K-State Agricultural Research Center in Hays, create about 800 new experimental lines each year - the critical step in a decade-long research process.&nbsp;However, not all of these lines have acceptable flour and baking qualities. Early sorting of which lines do or do not meet those standards saves time and cost for further testing down the road.&nbsp;“Quality is an important trait for breeders; we don’t want to release a variety with poor quality,” Zhang said. “Thanks to the lab, they can evaluate all our advanced breeding lines. Based on the lab testing, we can see the lines with poor quality, and we will not continue those lines.”The Kansas Wheat Quality Lab&nbsp;annually&nbsp;tests 350 to 400 advanced lines from the K-State wheat breeding programs.&nbsp;It takes until year five in the breeding program to have enough seed to run preliminary quality tests like protein content and mixograph. But, as lines go through more field testing, more seeds are harvested from each line, allowing for more extensive quality evaluations.&nbsp;“Breeders can select for factors that determine agronomic performance, but milling and baking performance has to&nbsp;be tested&nbsp;in the lab,” said Yonghui Li, director of the Wheat Quality Lab.&nbsp;“These tests require specialized equipment&nbsp;along with training&nbsp;and experience to determine milling and baking quality.”A sample consists of 1,000 grams of wheat. The lab first looks at the sample using near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy technology. These tests allow researchers to examine protein quantity and test the moisture content of the grain.&nbsp;Researchers then temper the grain - or add a little bit of water to help make the milling process easier. Then, the sample&nbsp;is milled&nbsp;to separate the bran - the external coating of the wheat kernel - from the endosperm - the white part of the wheat kernel that becomes white flour. This resulting flour sample&nbsp;is tested&nbsp;too&nbsp;- looking at color and how much flour can&nbsp;be produced&nbsp;from the sample - the higher the amount, the better for millers.&nbsp;The testing then progresses to looking at protein quantity and quality and dough properties. Tests like the mixograph and farinograph determine dough-mixing properties like water absorbance, mixing stability and more.&nbsp;The final step is to take the flour, add water, yeast, sugar and salt and bake a pup loaf of bread, following standard protocols. Researchers then examine the quality of that bread - from the volume of the loaf to the crumb.&nbsp;The combined results of these tests&nbsp;are given&nbsp;back to K-State wheat breeders, who use the information to help determine which lines to advance in their breeding programs. The milling and baking tests&nbsp;are repeated&nbsp;each year as lines are in the advanced stages of the program, meaning by the time a variety is released, breeders have four to five years of quality data available.&nbsp;In addition to experimental lines, the lab tests 30 to 40 samples each year as a final evaluation before they are released by public and private wheat breeders throughout the Great Plains.&nbsp;The results are submitted&nbsp;back&nbsp;to the Wheat Quality Council, which compiles the results into an annual report.&nbsp;The&nbsp;main&nbsp;funding for the lab’s operations - necessary equipment&nbsp;maintenance along with a&nbsp;full-time staff member and a team of undergraduate student workers - comes from the Kansas wheat checkoff.&nbsp;In turn, the lab helps support the reputation of Kansas wheat as having high-quality wheat, creating more opportunities in domestic and international markets.&nbsp;“With those checkoff dollars, we can evaluate quality each year and work with our breeders to create those best-performing varieties for Kansas,” Li said.&nbsp;“In turn, when producers choose varieties with better end-use quality, it improves&nbsp;the&nbsp;overall quality and marketability&nbsp;of Kansas wheat.”&nbsp;Learn more about the K-State Wheat Quality Lab at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ei9KAVE6goTagmwp98l5wK7cqRdgS0E416LOV6gLQruEVdlJTyGBIcNPFAX1AXcsgXs5NIqMtVZEXFqb8FB50hdxGwKCNFywohaBZ8zbdfWOlvfH9Kx20E8OqSyEAWWz8ZyM4WbUvZbsW_ELimN2SViUvwY_Bd-RQDWt7E6FO0oL26ZgDSwvDnHcIVC1uR0PqjtRCH-4hb0=&amp;c=ddVq53V-0T2La2USwPP2peuYVZfeRjmfFiGu7cL-VyELaLBLa0Mp8Q==&amp;ch=h78TqEWQ85SPZICHZ5u7P8hlVenfNsrBV_i7K_rWNLPcq6s8rHqWmQ==" target="_blank">https://www.grains.k-state.edu/facilities/wheatqualitylab/.&nbsp;</a>Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

Wheat Scoop: Putting Kernels to the Test

The 2024 KSHSAA state track meet is officially in the books, and below you can find results for all of our area athletes competing from Salina Central, Salina South, Abilene, Chapman, McPherson, Southeast of Saline, Ellsworth, Minneapolis, Smoky Valley, Sacred Heart, Ell-Saline, Solomon, Bennington, and Tescott.

Girls - Smoky Valley (51 pts - CLASS 3A KSHSAA STATE CHAMPIONS) - Salina Central (50 pts - 2nd in 5A) - Chapman (37 pts - 7th in 4A) - McPherson (38 pts - 8th in 4A) - Bennington (34 pts - 9th in 2A)

Boys - SE of Saline (43 pts - 6th in 3A) - Chapman (32 pts - 9th in 4A) - Abilene (30 pts - T10th in 4A)

Top performing individuals - Katelyn Rupe (Salina Central) - 5A girls 3200 - Elyssa Frieze (Chapman) - 4A girls 3200 - Haley Litzinger (Chapman) - 4A girls 100m dash - Judah Bowell (Abilene) - 110m hurdles - Judah Bowell (Abilene) - 300m hurdles - Tate Nurnberg (SE of Saline) - 3A boys high jump - Tate Nurnberg (SE of Saline) - 3A boys triple jump - Jordan Bartlett (Bennington) - 2A girls javelin

5A boys 4x400m relay Salina Central - 5th (3:26.95) Salina South - 7th (3:27.63)

3A boys 4x400m relay SE of Saline - 3rd (3:26.64) Smoky Valley - 6th (3:31.97)

4A girls 4x400m relay McPherson - 2nd (4:07.31) Abilene - 8th (4:17.03)

2A girls 4x400m relay Sacred Heart - 8th (4:34.08)

4A boys 200m dash Tyler Green (Abilene) - 4th (23.10) Gage Picking (Chapman) - 8th (23.79)

5A girls 2oom dash Elle Denning (Salina Central) - 7th (26.45)

4A girls 200m dash Jayla McLeod (McPherson) - 2nd (26.20) Renatta Heintz (Abilene) - 3rd (26.26) Haley Litzinger (Chapman) - 5th (26.58)

3A girls 200m dash Breanne Peters (Smoky Valley) - 2nd (25.77)

2A girls 200m dash Rori Miles (Bennington) - 7th (26.82)

5A boys 800 Bret Jones (Salina South) - 9th (2:00.40)

4A boys 800 Drew Elliott (Chapman) - 3rd (1:58.59) Dereck Klukas (Chapman) - 5th (2:00.28)

2A boys 800 Garrison Zerger (Ell-Saline) - 6th (2:02.22) Thayne Trout (Bennington) - 12th (2:05.47) Brayden Palenske&nbsp;(Bennington) - 16th (2:13.53)

5A girls 800 Kaylie Shultz (Salina Central) - 4th (2:16.69) Ava Lemaster (Salina South) - 10th (2:24.29)

4A girls 800 Eden Bathurst (Abilene) - 4th (2:22.12)

2A girls 800 Caroline Stone (Sacred Heart) - 16th (2:38.76)

4A boys 300m hurdles Judah Bowell (Abilene) - STATE CHAMPION (39.96)

5A girls 300m hurdles Tamia Cheeks (Salina South) - 8th (48.41)

4A girls 300m hurdles Arihanna Koehn (McPherson) - 6th (48.64)

3A girls 300m hurdles Elliana Smith (SE of Saline) - 8th (49.41)

2A girls 3oom hurdles Lauryn Mikkelson (Sacred Heart) - 8th (50.63)

2A girls javelin&nbsp; Jordan Bartlett (Bennington) - STATE CHAMPION (139-0)

3A boys 400m run Jacob Bircher (SE of Saline) - 7th (50.62)

5A girls 400m run Elle Denning (Salina Central) - 6th (59.57)

4A boys 4x100m relay Chapman - 7th (43.94)

2A boys 4x100m relay Bennington - 2nd (44.21)

4A girls 4x100m relay McPherson - 2nd (49.87) Abilene - 7th (50.90)

2A girls 4x100m relay Bennington - STATE CHAMPIONS (50.72) -&nbsp;Jaylee Moss, Taleigh Watson, Jordan Bartlett, Rori Miles Sacred Heart - 6th (51.85)

2A boys long jump Brogan Rowley (Ell-Saline) - 3rd (21-10.25) Payge Rodenbeek (Bennington) - 7th (21-3.50) Joseph Hiechel (Ell-Saline) - 10th (20-0)

4A girls shot put Claira Dannefer (Abilene) - 7th (36-0.75)

3A girls pole vault Breanne Peters (Smoky Valley) - STATE CHAMPION (12-8)

3A boys triple jump Tate Nurnberg (SE of Saline) - STATE CHAMPION (46-1)

4A boys 1600m Caleb Muehler (McPherson) - 2nd (4:25.01) Drew Elliott (Chapman) - 3rd (4:25.46)

3A boys 1600m&nbsp; Brayden Walker (SE of Saline) - 11th (4:32.94) Cayden Walker (SE of Saline) - 13th (4:36.58)

2A boys 1600m run Thayne Trout (Bennington) - 7th (4:34.29) Garrison Zerger (Ell-Saline) - 11th (4:45.52) Nick Williams (Bennington) - 12th (4:50.82) Carson Fouard (Ell-Saline) - 16th (5:04.23)

5A girls 1600m run Katelyn Rupe (Salina Central) - 2nd (4:55.19)

4A girls 1600m run Elyssa Frieze (Chapman) - 2nd (5:18.00) Eva Ramey (McPherson) - 11th (5:48.54)

3A girls 1600m run Piper Brown (SE of Saline) - 10th (5:44.70)

2A girls 1600m run Caroline Stone (Sacred Heart) - 5th (5:36.89) Mia Hamilton (Sacred Heart) - 10th (5:58.52)

1A girls 1600m run Breonna Peterson (Tescott) - 13th (5:53.10)

3A boys 100m dash Riley Stone (Ellsworth) - 8th (11.26)

2A boys 100m dash Manny McVay (Bennington) - 7th (11.26)

5A girls 100m dash Elle Denning (Salina Central) - 4th (12.40)

4A girls 100m dash Renatta Heintz (Abilene) - 4th (12.46) Haley Litzinger (Chapman) - 5th (12.48)

3A girls 100m dash&nbsp; Lainey Peshcka (Ellsworth) - 6th (12.95)

2A girls 100m dash Rori Miles (Bennington) - 3rd (12.74)

4A girls long jump Haley Litzinger (Chapman) - 6th (17-4) Claira Dannefer (Abilene) - T8th (17-2.25)

5A boys shot put Dammian Hightower (Salina South) - 16th (41-9.25)

3A girls triple jump Breanne Peters (Smoky Valley) - STATE CHAMPION (37-7) Trista Spitler (Smoky Valley) - 4th (36-4.75) Maci McClure (Minneapolis) - 6th (35-11)

5A boys 4x800m relay Salina Central - 15th (8:37.48)

4A boys 4x800m relay McPherson - 8th (8:20.66)&nbsp;

3A boys 4x800m relay SE of Saline - 2nd (8:17.12) Smoky Valley - 8th (8:31.01)

4A girls 4x800m relay Abilene - 7th (10:12.98) McPherson - 12th (10:35.09)

3A girls 4x800m relay Smoky Valley - 3rd (10:02.00) SE of Saline - 5th (10:03.76)

2A girls 4x800m relay Sacred Heart - 2nd (10:08.52)

5A girls shot put Aunisty McNeal (Salina South) - 10th (35-1)

4A girls pole vault Taya Rowley (Chapman) - T9th (9-0) Adelynn Kirkpatrick (Chapman) - 16th (8-0)

4A boys high jump Tyler Green (Abilene) - 5th (6-2) Kyden Thompson (McPherson) - 8th (6-2)&nbsp;

4A boys 110m hurdles Judah Bowell (Abilene) - STATE CHAMPION (14.84)

5A girls 100m hurdles Tamia Cheeks (Salina South) - 7th (15.90)

4A girls 100m hurdles Arihanna Koehn (McPherson) - 5th (16.17)

2A girls 100m hurdles Taleigh Watson (Bennington) - 6th (16.83)

5A boys 100m dash Kamryn Jones (Salina Central) - 10th (11.31)

4A boys 100m dash Gage Picking (Chapman) - 3rd (11.11) Jayce Schriner (McPherson) - 13th (11.49) Kameron Krogman (Chapman) - 15th (11.53)

3A boys 100m dash Riley Stone (Ellsw0rth) - 8th (11.35)

2A boys 100m dash Manny McVay (Bennington) - 8th (11.46)

5A girls 100m dash Elle Denning (Salina Central) - 7th (12.72)

4A girls 100m dash Haley Litzinger&nbsp;(Chapman) - STATE CHAMPION (12.59) Renatta Heintz (Abilene) - 2nd (12.82)

3A girls 100m dash Lainey Peshcka (Ellsworth) - 6th (13.12) Karlee Zurfluh (SE of Saline) - 10th (13.27)

2A girls 100m dash Rori Miles (Bennington) - 3rd (13.00)

1A boys javelin Justin Pasley (Tescott) - 3rd (162-5)

2A boys shot put Victor Ruiz-Torres (Ell-Saline) - 9th (46-6.50)

3A boys pole vault Mason Smith (Minneapolis) - 5th (13-6)

3A girls high jump Elliana Smith (SE of Saline) - 2nd (5-6)

2A boys high jump Brogan Rowley (Ell-Saline) - 2nd (6-6) Payge Rodenbeek (Bennington) - 12th (5-10)

2A girls long jump Skylar Douglas (Sacred Heart) - 12th (14-7)

2A girls shot put Alyssa Wolff (Bennington) - 6th (37-10.50)

2A boys triple jump Isaiah Garrett (Bennington) - 8th (40-11.50) Manny McVay (Bennington) - 11th (40-0)

3A girls 3200 run Esther Clark (Smoky Valley) - 7th (11:57.84) Molly Ehrlich (Ellsworth) - 8th (12:19.95) Anna Jackson (SE of Saline) - 1th (12:41.88)

3A boys 3200m run Brayden Walker (SE of Saline) - 5th (9:31.20) Cayden Walker (SE of Saline) - 6th (9:33.27) Levi Allen (SE of Saline) - 11th (9:51.28)

2A boys 3200m run Carson Fouard (Ell-Saline) - 9th (10:02.28) Spencer Ward (Bennington) - 15th (10:50.88)

2A girls 3200m run Eva Matteucci (Sacred Heart) - 8th (12:24.34) Libby Kierscht (Sacred Heart) - 12th (12:59.85)

1A girls 3200m run Breonna Peterson (Tescott) - 6th (12:20.62)

3A boys 4x400m relay prelims Smoky Valley - 5th (3:30.22&nbsp;q) SE of Saline - 6th (3:30.51&nbsp;q)

2A boys 4x400m relay prelims Ell-Saline - 9th (3:35.98)

2A girls 4x400m relay prelims Sacred Heart - 7th (4:16.56&nbsp;q)

2A boys javelin Brogan Rowley (Ell-Saline) - 14th (138-6)

1A boys pole vault Carter Peters&nbsp;(Tescott) - T10th (12-0)

2A girls pole vault Madison Simmons (Bennington) - 9th (8-6)

3A girls long jump Breanne Peters (Smoky Valley) - 2nd (17-11)

3A girls 200m dash prelims Breanne Peters (Smoky Valley) - 2nd (25.28 q)

2A girls 200m dash prelims Rori Miles (Bennington) - 6th (26.33&nbsp;q)

BY SALINA POSTThe 2024 KSHSAA state track meet is officially in the books, and below you can find results for all of our area athletes competing from Salina Central, Salina South, Abilene, Chapman, McPherson, Southeast of Saline, Ellsworth, Minneapolis, Smoky Valley, Sacred Heart, Ell-Saline, Solomon, Bennington, and Tescott.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716557308819.png" alt="Coverage of the 2024 KSHSAA State Track Meet is presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine: Your home-field advantage starts here" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of the 2024 KSHSAA State Track Meet is presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine: Your home-field advantage starts here</figcaption>
 </figure>Top performing teamsGirls - Smoky Valley (51 pts - CLASS 3A KSHSAA STATE CHAMPIONS) - Salina Central (50 pts - 2nd in 5A) - Chapman (37 pts - 7th in 4A) - McPherson (38 pts - 8th in 4A) - Bennington (34 pts - 9th in 2A) Boys - SE of Saline (43 pts - 6th in 3A) - Chapman (32 pts - 9th in 4A) - Abilene (30 pts - T10th in 4A)Top performing individuals - Katelyn Rupe (Salina Central) - 5A girls 3200 - Elyssa Frieze (Chapman) - 4A girls 3200 - Haley Litzinger (Chapman) - 4A girls 100m dash - Judah Bowell (Abilene) - 110m hurdles - Judah Bowell (Abilene) - 300m hurdles - Tate Nurnberg (SE of Saline) - 3A boys high jump - Tate Nurnberg (SE of Saline) - 3A boys triple jump - Jordan Bartlett (Bennington) - 2A girls javelinSaturday Results5A boys 4x400m relay Salina Central - 5th (3:26.95) Salina South - 7th (3:27.63)3A boys 4x400m relay SE of Saline - 3rd (3:26.64) Smoky Valley - 6th (3:31.97)4A girls 4x400m relay McPherson - 2nd (4:07.31) Abilene - 8th (4:17.03)2A girls 4x400m relay Sacred Heart - 8th (4:34.08) 4A boys 200m dash Tyler Green (Abilene) - 4th (23.10) Gage Picking (Chapman) - 8th (23.79) 5A girls 2oom dash Elle Denning (Salina Central) - 7th (26.45) 4A girls 200m dash Jayla McLeod (McPherson) - 2nd (26.20) Renatta Heintz (Abilene) - 3rd (26.26) Haley Litzinger (Chapman) - 5th (26.58) 3A girls 200m dash Breanne Peters (Smoky Valley) - 2nd (25.77) 2A girls 200m dash Rori Miles (Bennington) - 7th (26.82) 5A boys 800 Bret Jones (Salina South) - 9th (2:00.40) 4A boys 800 Drew Elliott (Chapman) - 3rd (1:58.59) Dereck Klukas (Chapman) - 5th (2:00.28) 2A boys 800 Garrison Zerger (Ell-Saline) - 6th (2:02.22) Thayne Trout (Bennington) - 12th (2:05.47) Brayden Palenske&nbsp;(Bennington) - 16th (2:13.53) 5A girls 800 Kaylie Shultz (Salina Central) - 4th (2:16.69) Ava Lemaster (Salina South) - 10th (2:24.29) 4A girls 800 Eden Bathurst (Abilene) - 4th (2:22.12) 2A girls 800 Caroline Stone (Sacred Heart) - 16th (2:38.76) 4A boys 300m hurdles Judah Bowell (Abilene) - STATE CHAMPION (39.96)5A girls 300m hurdles Tamia Cheeks (Salina South) - 8th (48.41)4A girls 300m hurdles Arihanna Koehn (McPherson) - 6th (48.64) 3A girls 300m hurdles Elliana Smith (SE of Saline) - 8th (49.41) 2A girls 3oom hurdles Lauryn Mikkelson (Sacred Heart) - 8th (50.63) 2A girls javelin&nbsp; Jordan Bartlett (Bennington) - STATE CHAMPION (139-0)3A boys 400m run Jacob Bircher (SE of Saline) - 7th (50.62) 5A girls 400m run Elle Denning (Salina Central) - 6th (59.57) 4A boys 4x100m relay Chapman - 7th (43.94)2A boys 4x100m relay Bennington - 2nd (44.21) 4A girls 4x100m relay McPherson - 2nd (49.87) Abilene - 7th (50.90)2A girls 4x100m relay Bennington - STATE CHAMPIONS (50.72) -&nbsp;Jaylee Moss, Taleigh Watson, Jordan Bartlett, Rori Miles Sacred Heart - 6th (51.85)2A boys long jump Brogan Rowley (Ell-Saline) - 3rd (21-10.25) Payge Rodenbeek (Bennington) - 7th (21-3.50) Joseph Hiechel (Ell-Saline) - 10th (20-0) 4A girls shot put Claira Dannefer (Abilene) - 7th (36-0.75) 3A girls pole vault Breanne Peters (Smoky Valley) - STATE CHAMPION (12-8) 3A boys triple jump Tate Nurnberg (SE of Saline) - STATE CHAMPION (46-1)4A boys 1600m Caleb Muehler (McPherson) - 2nd (4:25.01) Drew Elliott (Chapman) - 3rd (4:25.46) 3A boys 1600m&nbsp; Brayden Walker (SE of Saline) - 11th (4:32.94) Cayden Walker (SE of Saline) - 13th (4:36.58)2A boys 1600m run Thayne Trout (Bennington) - 7th (4:34.29) Garrison Zerger (Ell-Saline) - 11th (4:45.52) Nick Williams (Bennington) - 12th (4:50.82) Carson Fouard (Ell-Saline) - 16th (5:04.23) 5A girls 1600m run Katelyn Rupe (Salina Central) - 2nd (4:55.19) 4A girls 1600m run Elyssa Frieze (Chapman) - 2nd (5:18.00) Eva Ramey (McPherson) - 11th (5:48.54) 3A girls 1600m run Piper Brown (SE of Saline) - 10th (5:44.70) 2A girls 1600m run Caroline Stone (Sacred Heart) - 5th (5:36.89) Mia Hamilton (Sacred Heart) - 10th (5:58.52) 1A girls 1600m run Breonna Peterson (Tescott) - 13th (5:53.10) 3A boys 100m dash Riley Stone (Ellsworth) - 8th (11.26) 2A boys 100m dash Manny McVay (Bennington) - 7th (11.26) 5A girls 100m dash Elle Denning (Salina Central) - 4th (12.40) 4A girls 100m dash Renatta Heintz (Abilene) - 4th (12.46) Haley Litzinger (Chapman) - 5th (12.48) 3A girls 100m dash&nbsp; Lainey Peshcka (Ellsworth) - 6th (12.95) 2A girls 100m dash Rori Miles (Bennington) - 3rd (12.74) 4A girls long jump Haley Litzinger (Chapman) - 6th (17-4) Claira Dannefer (Abilene) - T8th (17-2.25) 5A boys shot put Dammian Hightower (Salina South) - 16th (41-9.25) 3A girls triple jump Breanne Peters (Smoky Valley) - STATE CHAMPION (37-7) Trista Spitler (Smoky Valley) - 4th (36-4.75) Maci McClure (Minneapolis) - 6th (35-11) 5A boys 4x800m relay Salina Central - 15th (8:37.48)4A boys 4x800m relay McPherson - 8th (8:20.66)&nbsp; 3A boys 4x800m relay SE of Saline - 2nd (8:17.12) Smoky Valley - 8th (8:31.01)4A girls 4x800m relay Abilene - 7th (10:12.98) McPherson - 12th (10:35.09)3A girls 4x800m relay Smoky Valley - 3rd (10:02.00) SE of Saline - 5th (10:03.76)2A girls 4x800m relay Sacred Heart - 2nd (10:08.52)5A girls shot put Aunisty McNeal (Salina South) - 10th (35-1) 4A girls pole vault Taya Rowley (Chapman) - T9th (9-0) Adelynn Kirkpatrick (Chapman) - 16th (8-0) 4A boys high jump Tyler Green (Abilene) - 5th (6-2) Kyden Thompson (McPherson) - 8th (6-2)&nbsp; 4A boys 110m hurdles Judah Bowell (Abilene) - STATE CHAMPION (14.84)5A girls 100m hurdles Tamia Cheeks (Salina South) - 7th (15.90)4A girls 100m hurdles Arihanna Koehn (McPherson) - 5th (16.17) 2A girls 100m hurdles Taleigh Watson (Bennington) - 6th (16.83) 5A boys 100m dash Kamryn Jones (Salina Central) - 10th (11.31) 4A boys 100m dash Gage Picking (Chapman) - 3rd (11.11) Jayce Schriner (McPherson) - 13th (11.49) Kameron Krogman (Chapman) - 15th (11.53) 3A boys 100m dash Riley Stone (Ellsw0rth) - 8th (11.35) 2A boys 100m dash Manny McVay (Bennington) - 8th (11.46) 5A girls 100m dash Elle Denning (Salina Central) - 7th (12.72)4A girls 100m dash Haley Litzinger&nbsp;(Chapman) - STATE CHAMPION (12.59) Renatta Heintz (Abilene) - 2nd (12.82) 3A girls 100m dash Lainey Peshcka (Ellsworth) - 6th (13.12) Karlee Zurfluh (SE of Saline) - 10th (13.27) 2A girls 100m dash Rori Miles (Bennington) - 3rd (13.00) Friday Results1A boys javelin Justin Pasley (Tescott) - 3rd (162-5) 2A boys shot put Victor Ruiz-Torres (Ell-Saline) - 9th (46-6.50) 3A boys pole vault Mason Smith (Minneapolis) - 5th (13-6) 3A girls high jump Elliana Smith (SE of Saline) - 2nd (5-6) 2A boys high jump Brogan Rowley (Ell-Saline) - 2nd (6-6) Payge Rodenbeek (Bennington) - 12th (5-10) 2A girls long jump Skylar Douglas (Sacred Heart) - 12th (14-7) 2A girls shot put Alyssa Wolff (Bennington) - 6th (37-10.50)2A boys triple jump Isaiah Garrett (Bennington) - 8th (40-11.50) Manny McVay (Bennington) - 11th (40-0) 3A girls 3200 run Esther Clark (Smoky Valley) - 7th (11:57.84) Molly Ehrlich (Ellsworth) - 8th (12:19.95) Anna Jackson (SE of Saline) - 1th (12:41.88)3A boys 3200m run Brayden Walker (SE of Saline) - 5th (9:31.20) Cayden Walker (SE of Saline) - 6th (9:33.27) Levi Allen (SE of Saline) - 11th (9:51.28) 2A boys 3200m run Carson Fouard (Ell-Saline) - 9th (10:02.28) Spencer Ward (Bennington) - 15th (10:50.88) 2A girls 3200m run Eva Matteucci (Sacred Heart) - 8th (12:24.34) Libby Kierscht (Sacred Heart) - 12th (12:59.85) 1A girls 3200m run Breonna Peterson (Tescott) - 6th (12:20.62) 3A boys 4x400m relay prelims Smoky Valley - 5th (3:30.22&nbsp;q) SE of Saline - 6th (3:30.51&nbsp;q)2A boys 4x400m relay prelims Ell-Saline - 9th (3:35.98)2A girls 4x400m relay prelims Sacred Heart - 7th (4:16.56&nbsp;q)2A boys javelin Brogan Rowley (Ell-Saline) - 14th (138-6) 1A boys pole vault Carter Peters&nbsp;(Tescott) - T10th (12-0)2A girls pole vault Madison Simmons (Bennington) - 9th (8-6) 3A girls long jump Breanne Peters (Smoky Valley) - 2nd (17-11)3A girls 200m dash prelims Breanne Peters (Smoky Valley) - 2nd (25.28 q)2A girls 200m dash prelims Rori Miles (Bennington) - 6th (26.33&nbsp;q) 2A girls 300m hurdle prelims Melvin Lutes (Ell-Saline) - 13th (45.42) 3A girls 300m hurdle prelims Elliana Smith (SE of Saline) - 3rd (47.07 q) 2A girls 300m hurdle prelims Lauryn Mikkelson (Sacred Heart) - 6th (48.62&nbsp;q) Jaylee Moss (Bennington) - 13th (50.42) 3A boys high jump Tate Nurnberg (SE of Saline) - STATE CHAMPION (6-6)3A boys 400m prelims Jacob Bircher (SE of Saline) - 7th (50.96&nbsp;q) 3A girls 400m prelims Regan Duran (SE of Saline) - 10th (1:02.37)5A boys javelin James MacKinney (Salina Central) - 9th (163-1) 2A boys discus Victor Ruiz-Torres (Ell-Saline) - 11th (135-8) 4A girls triple jump Mallory Holmes (McPherson) - 5th (36-4) Claire Wasylk (Chapman) - 10th (34-0.25) Kit Barbieri (Abilene) - 16th (30-10.25) 3A boys long jump Malachi Hopkins (SE of Saline) - 9th (20-6.25)2A boys 4x100m relay prelims Bennington - 2nd (44.35 q) 2A girls 4x100m relay prelims Bennington - 1st (50.17 q) Sacred Heart - 3rd (51.13 q) 3A girls 100m hurdle prelims Elliana Smith (SE of Saline) - 9th (15.90)2A girls 100m hurdle prelims Taleigh Watson (Bennington) -6th (16.50&nbsp;q) Jaylee Moss (Bennington) - 11th (16.84) Abby Gans (Bennington) - 16th (18.19)5A girls discus Aunisty McNeal (Salina South) - 10th (107-8) 4A boys shot put Weston Langvardt (Chapman) - 10th (47-0.50) Caden Wenderott (McPherson) - 15th (43-9.25) 5A girls pole vault Anna Hogeland (Salina Central) - T2nd (11-0) Bethany Hicklin (Salina South) - T2nd (11-0) 5A girls high jump Tamia Cheeks (Salina South) - 2nd (5-4)4A boys triple jump Kelan Gruver (Chapman) - 11th (40-11.75)4A boys javelin Ian Suther (Chapman) - 7th (147-7) Gavin Wedel (McPherson) - 12th (155-3) 4A girls discus Tanith Elliott (Chapman) - 2nd (119-0) 5A boys 4x400m relay prelims Salina South - 4th (3:25.81 q) Salina Central 7th (3:29.55&nbsp;q)4A boys 3x400m relay prelims Abilene - 14th (3:35.04)4A girls 4x400m relay prelims McPherson - 4th (4:11.12 q) Abilene - 7th (4:12.78&nbsp;q)5A boys 200m dash prelims Kamryn Jones (Salina Central) - 11th (22.65) 4A boys 200m dash prelims Tyler Green (Abilene) - 4th (22.41 q) Gage Picking (Chapman) - 7th (22.59 q) Jayce Schriner (McPherson) - 12th (23.01) 5A girls 200m dash prelims Elle Denning (Salina Central) - 8th (26.03 q)4A girls 200m dash prelims Haley Litzinger (Chapman) - 1st (25.87 q) Renatta Heintz (Abilene) - 2nd (25.92 q) Jayla McLeod (McPherson (7th 26.19 q) 4A boys 300m hurdle prelims Judah Bowell (Abilene) - 1st (40.68 q)5A girls 300m hurdle prelims Tamia Cheeks (Salina South) - 7th (48.24&nbsp;q)4A girls 300m hurdle prelims Arihanna Koehn (McPherson) - 6th (48.94 q) 5A boys discus Gage Gibson (Salina Central) - 14th (124-3) 5A boys pole vault Dylan Brice (Salina South) - 10th (12-6) 5A girls triple jump Tamia Cheeks (Salina South) - 7th (35-3.50) Amari DeHerrera (Salina South) 12th (31-6.75) 4A boys long jump Judah Bowell (Abilene) - 8th (20-7.50) Aiden Whitley (Chapman) - 10th (19-10.50)5A boys 400m prelims Jameer Moore (Salina Central) - 16th (53.08)5A girls 400m prelims Elle Denning (Salina Central) - 6th (1:00.33&nbsp;q)4A boys 4x100m relay prelims Chapman - 6th (44.05 q)5A girls 4x100m relay prelims Salina Central - 9th (50.58)4A girls 4x100m relay prelims McPherson - 2nd (50.33 q) Abilene - 5th (51.08 q) Chapman - 11th (52.05)5A boys 110m hurdle prelims Brady Hemmer (Salina Central) - 11th (15.89) 4A boys 110m hurdle prelims Judah Bowell (Abilene) - 1st (14.98 q) 5A girls 100m hurdle prelims Tamia Cheeks (Salina South) - 6th (15.70&nbsp;q)4A girls 100m hurdle prelims Arihanna Koehn (McPherson) - 8th (16.02 q) 5A girls 3200m run Katelyn Rupe (Salina Central) - STATE CHAMPION (10:18.09) Kaylie Shultz (Salina Central) - 3rd (10:45.10) 4A boys 3200m run Caleb Muehler (McPherson) - 2nd (9:31.81) Drew Elliott (Chapman) - 4th (9:46.90)4A girls 3200m run Elyssa Frieze (Chapman) - STATE CHAMPION (11:18.14) Lexi Patterson (McPherson) - 16th (13:06.53)

Final Area KSHSAA State Track Results

Early this morning, a string of thunderstorms brought flash flooding warnings and more than two inches of rain to Delphos, Jamestown, Cuba and Beloit.

A far northeastern rural Ottowa County CoCoRaHS collaborator reported 3.33 inches of rain.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/pages/recent-precipitation">Recent Precipitation</a>

Today A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 78. North northwest wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 55. West northwest wind 5 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Memorial Day Sunny, with a high near 83. North northwest wind 8 to 13 mph.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 55. North wind 5 to 10 mph becoming light northeast in the evening.

Tuesday A 20 percent chance of showers before 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 82. Calm wind becoming east southeast 5 to 7 mph in the afternoon.

Tuesday Night A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low of around 56. The chance of precipitation is 20%

The National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita) issued a tornado watch for portions of northern Kansas.

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina Post

Storms loom in the forecast again for much of the central Plains today, with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center (NOAA SPC) meteorologists predicting 70 to 80 mph wind gusts, large hail and the possibility for tornadoes.

National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita) meteorologists predict that storms will reach the Saline County region between 7 and 10 p.m. today, while severe weather could begin as early as 4 p.m. across portions of Texas and Oklahoma.

Salina experienced a chilly morning, with the Salina Regional Airport reporting a brisk 55.9 degrees at 5:53 a.m. and a dew point of 48.9 degrees.

"It was a pretty cool chilly morning, so it's going to take quite a while for the deep moisture to get up into the Salina area," said NWS Wichita Meteorologist Scott Smith. "I would say that after the seven or eight o'clock timeframe would be when you see any impacts, and most likely, the storms would develop off to the West and head toward Salina, so it could be even later than that."

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3969fc82-b07d-4d4e-885d-fe75a7799560">🎥UPDATED: Severe weather coverage May 19 — Salina Airport reports 100 mph winds</a>

The city of Salina lies on the edge of the moderate-risk area defined by the NOAA SPC categorical outlook. Still, much of Saline County and south central Kansas have higher risks for damaging severe weather.

Smith said that storms that may later reach the Salina region will likely begin as isolated storms in western Kansas but have the chance to congeal into a line of storms often referred to as a squall line, decreasing the chance of tornadoes.

Although the threat of tornadoes decreases when isolated storms become a squall line, the danger of 80 mph straight-line winds and damaging hail remains a significant concern.

"You can't rule out a tornado even in that scenario, but tornadoes would be more likely early on, and then your strong, straight, damaging winds later as they hedge their way to the Salina region," Scott said.

These squall lines often bring heavy rains alongside the large hail and strong wind gusts.&nbsp;

Smith said that although meteorologists at the NOAA SPC and NWS Wichita have a medium level of confidence in which areas will see storms this evening, residents should prepare accordingly with at least two ways to receive weather information, like a smartphone and weather radio or any other combination of receiving weather information, and have an action plan for when severe weather hits.

Salina Post will continue to update weather information throughout the afternoon and evening. Check back to see significant updates on where severe weather is in Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716730363267.png" alt="Radar image of a few thunderstorms through Kansas's north-central and northeast regions early this morning around 1:45 a.m. Image courtesy GR2Analyst provided by National Weather Service Topeka" />
 <figcaption>Radar image of a few thunderstorms through Kansas's north-central and northeast regions early this morning around 1:45 a.m. Image courtesy GR2Analyst provided by National Weather Service Topeka</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTEarly this morning, a string of thunderstorms brought flash flooding warnings and more than two inches of rain to Delphos, Jamestown, Cuba and Beloit.A far northeastern rural Ottowa County CoCoRaHS collaborator reported 3.33 inches of rain.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/pages/recent-precipitation">Recent Precipitation</a><h2>NWS Wichita Three-day forecast</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716729248906.png" alt="A quick look at the three-day forecast for Saline County. Graphic courtesy National Weather Service (NWS)" />
 <figcaption>A quick look at the three-day forecast for Saline County. Graphic courtesy National Weather Service (NWS)</figcaption>
 </figure>Today A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 78. North northwest wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 55. West northwest wind 5 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Memorial Day Sunny, with a high near 83. North northwest wind 8 to 13 mph.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 55. North wind 5 to 10 mph becoming light northeast in the evening.Tuesday A 20 percent chance of showers before 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 82. Calm wind becoming east southeast 5 to 7 mph in the afternoon.Tuesday Night A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low of around 56. The chance of precipitation is 20%<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716676492401.jpeg" alt="Tornado watch issued on Saturday, May 25, 2024. Graphic courtesy NWS Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Tornado watch issued on Saturday, May 25, 2024. Graphic courtesy NWS Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita) issued a tornado watch for portions of northern Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716651743248.png" alt="A closer look at where severe weather may impact on Saturday, May 25, with areas of south central Kansas having a more significant chance for baseball size hail and tornadoes.&nbsp;Graphic courtesy National Weather Service Wichita provided by Saline County Emergency Management" />
 <figcaption>A closer look at where severe weather may impact on Saturday, May 25, with areas of south central Kansas having a more significant chance for baseball size hail and tornadoes.&nbsp;Graphic courtesy National Weather Service Wichita provided by Saline County Emergency Management</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostStorms loom in the forecast again for much of the central Plains today, with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center (NOAA SPC) meteorologists predicting 70 to 80 mph wind gusts, large hail and the possibility for tornadoes.National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita) meteorologists predict that storms will reach the Saline County region between 7 and 10 p.m. today, while severe weather could begin as early as 4 p.m. across portions of Texas and Oklahoma.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716651550599.png" alt="The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center (NOAA SPC) Categorical Outlook for Saturday, May 25. Graphic courtesy NOAA SPC" />
 <figcaption>The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center (NOAA SPC) Categorical Outlook for Saturday, May 25. Graphic courtesy NOAA SPC</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina experienced a chilly morning, with the Salina Regional Airport reporting a brisk 55.9 degrees at 5:53 a.m. and a dew point of 48.9 degrees."It was a pretty cool chilly morning, so it's going to take quite a while for the deep moisture to get up into the Salina area," said NWS Wichita Meteorologist Scott Smith. "I would say that after the seven or eight o'clock timeframe would be when you see any impacts, and most likely, the storms would develop off to the West and head toward Salina, so it could be even later than that."READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3969fc82-b07d-4d4e-885d-fe75a7799560">🎥UPDATED: Severe weather coverage May 19 — Salina Airport reports 100 mph winds</a>The city of Salina lies on the edge of the moderate-risk area defined by the NOAA SPC categorical outlook. Still, much of Saline County and south central Kansas have higher risks for damaging severe weather.Smith said that storms that may later reach the Salina region will likely begin as isolated storms in western Kansas but have the chance to congeal into a line of storms often referred to as a squall line, decreasing the chance of tornadoes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716651823097.png" alt="National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita) predicts severe weather to impact the Salina region between 7 and 10 p.m. on Saturday, May 25. Graphic courtesy National Weather Service Wichita provided by Saline County Emergency Management" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita) predicts severe weather to impact the Salina region between 7 and 10 p.m. on Saturday, May 25. Graphic courtesy National Weather Service Wichita provided by Saline County Emergency Management</figcaption>
 </figure>Although the threat of tornadoes decreases when isolated storms become a squall line, the danger of 80 mph straight-line winds and damaging hail remains a significant concern."You can't rule out a tornado even in that scenario, but tornadoes would be more likely early on, and then your strong, straight, damaging winds later as they hedge their way to the Salina region," Scott said.These squall lines often bring heavy rains alongside the large hail and strong wind gusts.&nbsp;Smith said that although meteorologists at the NOAA SPC and NWS Wichita have a medium level of confidence in which areas will see storms this evening, residents should prepare accordingly with at least two ways to receive weather information, like a smartphone and weather radio or any other combination of receiving weather information, and have an action plan for when severe weather hits.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716652079344.png" alt="Critical ways to stay weather aware provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Graphic courtesy NOAA provided by Saline County Emergency Management" />
 <figcaption>Critical ways to stay weather aware provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Graphic courtesy NOAA provided by Saline County Emergency Management</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Post will continue to update weather information throughout the afternoon and evening. Check back to see significant updates on where severe weather is in Kansas.

UPDATED: Heavy rain in north-central and northeast Kansas early this morning

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.

NAME:&nbsp;Bradbury, Alexander Ray REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Flee or attempt to elude; reckless driving, Racing on Highways

NAME:&nbsp;Briscoe, Haiden Geraldine REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Agg burglary; unknown circumstance, Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor, Harass by telecom device; Phone call with intent to abuse/threaten/harass, Theft of prop/services: Value less than $1,500.

NAME:&nbsp;Eilert, Keith Anthony REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Garcia, Andres REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/962ef412-382c-4096-a448-3a865819b89e">Salina Public Library announces capital campaign for youth services remodel</a>

NAME:&nbsp;Meyer, Jessica Nicole REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm

NAME: Morris, Brenda REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;In transit

NAME:&nbsp;Stone, Jackie Dean REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner

NAME:&nbsp;Wilson-Zuniga, Jeffrey Robert Woodruff REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm

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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716726251894.jpeg" alt="Bradbury, Alexander Ray" />
 <figcaption>Bradbury, Alexander Ray</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Bradbury, Alexander Ray REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Flee or attempt to elude; reckless driving, Racing on Highways<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716726329959.jpeg" alt="Briscoe, Haiden Geraldine" />
 <figcaption>Briscoe, Haiden Geraldine</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Briscoe, Haiden Geraldine REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Agg burglary; unknown circumstance, Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor, Harass by telecom device; Phone call with intent to abuse/threaten/harass, Theft of prop/services: Value less than $1,500.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716726364276.jpeg" alt="Eilert, Keith Anthony" />
 <figcaption>Eilert, Keith Anthony</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Eilert, Keith Anthony REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716726452808.jpeg" alt="Garcia, Andres" />
 <figcaption>Garcia, Andres</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Garcia, Andres REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appearREAD MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/962ef412-382c-4096-a448-3a865819b89e">Salina Public Library announces capital campaign for youth services remodel</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716726494409.jpeg" alt="Meyer, Jessica Nicole" />
 <figcaption>Meyer, Jessica Nicole</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Meyer, Jessica Nicole REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716726536360.jpeg" alt="Morris, Brenda" />
 <figcaption>Morris, Brenda</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Morris, Brenda REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;In transit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716726562909.jpeg" alt="Stone, Jackie Dean" />
 <figcaption>Stone, Jackie Dean</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Stone, Jackie Dean REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716726596807.jpeg" alt="Wilson-Zuniga, Jeffrey Robert Woodruff" />
 <figcaption>Wilson-Zuniga, Jeffrey Robert Woodruff</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Wilson-Zuniga, Jeffrey Robert Woodruff REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm

Saline County Jail Bookings, May 26

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

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

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

<a href="https://projects.designnine.com/survey/saline-residential">Resident Survey</a> <a href="https://projects.designnine.com/survey/saline-business">Business Survey</a> <a href="https://projects.designnine.com/survey/saline-residential-espaniol">Español</a>

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

Print the survey to share with your friends and neighbors without internet access!

<a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/55d47694801/b32bbf20-e1a0-4cec-98e4-e33d7def8c7c.pdf?rdr=true">Resident Survey PDF</a> <a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/55d47694801/cb078928-c120-4e1e-98db-aa55d600911f.pdf?rdr=true">Business&nbsp;Survey PDF</a> <a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/55d47694801/f456d0b2-8a96-43d2-bf20-776747d2738d.pdf?rdr=true">Español PDF</a>

Andrew Cohill, PhD, President and CEO of Design Nine, Inc., and Jack Maytum, Senior Broadband Analyst for Design Nine, will visit Saline County from June 24 to 28.

They will host community forums throughout the community that week.

See below for currently scheduled community forums, or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:publiccommunications@salinecountyks.gov" target="_blank">publiccommunications@salinecountyks.gov</a>&nbsp;to schedule one in your area!

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

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/4927f8af-f0b2-43da-930b-9aaedc34154a">Saline County Commission approves new pretrial software, RFD Three land purchase</a>

<a href="https://vktowebbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MwnkJ-bncSdGhzdsICZZ0qcRtfax6k9xPNr8BOCR9qAR-GE8nYnOP7jAiy5F1ap9lVLMCSldrOIkOC-5kwGRmLCDumT0vt1OyW1bQOjg8Erw1pE1ef-UK-YH264vElqr7eTiw8VB_yvEHydvtTuLWcXcSdQ36HSzvGYZ-ugYW_9r1MxZxlcWtEuwQWucWK3NXdFnqEZ8IvrS3y6qvPm1Ef06kEG--V8P_kFAwzGprmfqLJeyiu_2LiUSK2jZy8Ixw_1d8jfr5jqAvnA3YRH0wnN-vh9qFz8OYtgPxkd2RbYHN4TB_pTTtNS7_ZlyuvqDUhHXzKq-vjKteEnRqLrVgQ==&amp;c=TUwMLI9X1meEdETlr7kHThcx5-3ZXitat6PIgkXqm6Gqobegc9Ywpw==&amp;ch=CONgrh74vdstSaO5H_UMYfyeRR50nbbzFDRI5JUXy7lVKi2MGiJjMg==">Click to RSVP</a>

<a href="https://vktowebbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MwnkJ-bncSdGhzdsICZZ0qcRtfax6k9xPNr8BOCR9qAR-GE8nYnOP7jAiy5F1ap9omdDWTjbWem0-7bKQXgSZFZ6abMfXbHv-2Y1sgry3wEMcTSRw8epzsnyu2SA3uuYA4BXzqWUfMm3XQo_f99BWsDxxZlUt8P1PR-eKyXho66i-eCL87u_xe79yYIsyziePeYyH5GpfBY72TwjQTKkS9g1FMktn68QBdd-rD2uhwVxgeXDXnq9bpuaZD41Vyo8zQ4vOlrCDixIURcK_3nyhlTKZG8lNETE8ZsIDmGA2TiNDrFxr0yR1CJA0pMEp0OVmP_M0KH6F3iC-uq9zYD9oQ==&amp;c=TUwMLI9X1meEdETlr7kHThcx5-3ZXitat6PIgkXqm6Gqobegc9Ywpw==&amp;ch=CONgrh74vdstSaO5H_UMYfyeRR50nbbzFDRI5JUXy7lVKi2MGiJjMg==">Click to RSVP</a>

Design Nine was founded in 1987 by&nbsp;<a href="https://vktowebbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MwnkJ-bncSdGhzdsICZZ0qcRtfax6k9xPNr8BOCR9qAR-GE8nYnOP7jAiy5F1ap9SqbqNPcAt64adL8GwA_IqhnIPUVUIlVKu1OwS-YBAojcvq4phvDuMhijn1VX79-u3xkBby2e0Z0xMFWs95T1RJbqatjLK2WQTtzYSlFslzA=&amp;c=TUwMLI9X1meEdETlr7kHThcx5-3ZXitat6PIgkXqm6Gqobegc9Ywpw==&amp;ch=CONgrh74vdstSaO5H_UMYfyeRR50nbbzFDRI5JUXy7lVKi2MGiJjMg==" 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 broadband 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 broadband 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=001MwnkJ-bncSdGhzdsICZZ0qcRtfax6k9xPNr8BOCR9qAR-GE8nYnOP7jAiy5F1ap9RCMaN-CLr4JwbsZIBlt9A0P-B4ZCoUz3buc8Vl5KhWDT5hHslidJW-OY1MZu89HF-bkAqptJZIKzJSNsUFi0jKPDo4eznff2&amp;c=TUwMLI9X1meEdETlr7kHThcx5-3ZXitat6PIgkXqm6Gqobegc9Ywpw==&amp;ch=CONgrh74vdstSaO5H_UMYfyeRR50nbbzFDRI5JUXy7lVKi2MGiJjMg==" target="_blank">senior leadership</a>&nbsp;of Design Nine has extensive, hands-on experience designing and managing telecommunications and broadband 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 broadband 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 broadband 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 broadband networks.&nbsp;He has provided assistance to community broadband projects throughout North America, including Canada and the Caribbean. Design Nine provides broadband 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 broadband 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.

Jack Maytum,&nbsp;Senior Broadband Analyst

Jack Maytum is a Senior Broadband Analyst with Design Nine.&nbsp;Over the ten years with the company, Maytum has worked with dozens of town, county, and city broadband 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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716726952332.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted by Saline CountyIn today's digital age, reliable broadband access is essential for economic growth, education, healthcare, and overall quality of life. To address broadband deficiencies and enhance connectivity throughout the county, Saline County has contracted with Design Nine, Inc. of Blacksburg, VA, to conduct a comprehensive broadband study.Design Nine will examine existing broadband assets offered by local telecom providers and cable companies. The analysis will cover the types of broadband services available, usage patterns, and, most importantly, gaps in coverage. Based on this data, Design Nine will propose strategies for improving broadband services in Saline County.<h2>Call to Action:</h2>The success of this project is completely dependent upon your participation. We urge every resident and business owner to complete the broadband surveys to provide the essential data needed to shape the future of broadband in Saline County. The data collected will empower local leaders and stakeholders to make informed decisions about expanding broadband access in Saline County.<a href="https://projects.designnine.com/survey/saline-residential">Resident Survey</a> <a href="https://projects.designnine.com/survey/saline-business">Business Survey</a> <a href="https://projects.designnine.com/survey/saline-residential-espaniol">Español</a><h2>No internet? No problem:</h2>Paper surveys will also be available at select locations throughout the county to gather broadband coverage information from those who may not have the ability to fill the survey out online.Print the survey to share with your friends and neighbors without internet access!<a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/55d47694801/b32bbf20-e1a0-4cec-98e4-e33d7def8c7c.pdf?rdr=true">Resident Survey PDF</a> <a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/55d47694801/cb078928-c120-4e1e-98db-aa55d600911f.pdf?rdr=true">Business&nbsp;Survey PDF</a> <a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/55d47694801/f456d0b2-8a96-43d2-bf20-776747d2738d.pdf?rdr=true">Español PDF</a><h2>Let's talk:</h2>Andrew Cohill, PhD, President and CEO of Design Nine, Inc., and Jack Maytum, Senior Broadband Analyst for Design Nine, will visit Saline County from June 24 to 28.They will host community forums throughout the community that week.Topics will include:<ul>
 <li>Is broadband a luxury or a necessary utility?</li><li>What's the best broadband option for Saline County?</li><li>How will better broadband be funded?</li>
 </ul>See below for currently scheduled community forums, or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:publiccommunications@salinecountyks.gov" target="_blank">publiccommunications@salinecountyks.gov</a>&nbsp;to schedule one in your area!Funded by $48,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, this study is crucial for identifying service gaps and developing strategies to improve broadband access.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/4927f8af-f0b2-43da-930b-9aaedc34154a">Saline County Commission approves new pretrial software, RFD Three land purchase</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716727133296.png" alt="Saline County Broadband Equity Community Forum will feature discussions on internet accessibility at 1 p.m. on June 25 at the Salina Public Library Technology Center. Graphic courtesy Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Saline County Broadband Equity Community Forum will feature discussions on internet accessibility at 1 p.m. on June 25 at the Salina Public Library Technology Center. Graphic courtesy Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://vktowebbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MwnkJ-bncSdGhzdsICZZ0qcRtfax6k9xPNr8BOCR9qAR-GE8nYnOP7jAiy5F1ap9lVLMCSldrOIkOC-5kwGRmLCDumT0vt1OyW1bQOjg8Erw1pE1ef-UK-YH264vElqr7eTiw8VB_yvEHydvtTuLWcXcSdQ36HSzvGYZ-ugYW_9r1MxZxlcWtEuwQWucWK3NXdFnqEZ8IvrS3y6qvPm1Ef06kEG--V8P_kFAwzGprmfqLJeyiu_2LiUSK2jZy8Ixw_1d8jfr5jqAvnA3YRH0wnN-vh9qFz8OYtgPxkd2RbYHN4TB_pTTtNS7_ZlyuvqDUhHXzKq-vjKteEnRqLrVgQ==&amp;c=TUwMLI9X1meEdETlr7kHThcx5-3ZXitat6PIgkXqm6Gqobegc9Ywpw==&amp;ch=CONgrh74vdstSaO5H_UMYfyeRR50nbbzFDRI5JUXy7lVKi2MGiJjMg==">Click to RSVP</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716727214081.png" alt="Broadband for Business from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Visit Salina Annex. Graphic courtesy Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Broadband for Business from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Visit Salina Annex. Graphic courtesy Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://vktowebbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MwnkJ-bncSdGhzdsICZZ0qcRtfax6k9xPNr8BOCR9qAR-GE8nYnOP7jAiy5F1ap9omdDWTjbWem0-7bKQXgSZFZ6abMfXbHv-2Y1sgry3wEMcTSRw8epzsnyu2SA3uuYA4BXzqWUfMm3XQo_f99BWsDxxZlUt8P1PR-eKyXho66i-eCL87u_xe79yYIsyziePeYyH5GpfBY72TwjQTKkS9g1FMktn68QBdd-rD2uhwVxgeXDXnq9bpuaZD41Vyo8zQ4vOlrCDixIURcK_3nyhlTKZG8lNETE8ZsIDmGA2TiNDrFxr0yR1CJA0pMEp0OVmP_M0KH6F3iC-uq9zYD9oQ==&amp;c=TUwMLI9X1meEdETlr7kHThcx5-3ZXitat6PIgkXqm6Gqobegc9Ywpw==&amp;ch=CONgrh74vdstSaO5H_UMYfyeRR50nbbzFDRI5JUXy7lVKi2MGiJjMg==">Click to RSVP</a><h2>Design Nine</h2>Design Nine was founded in 1987 by&nbsp;<a href="https://vktowebbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MwnkJ-bncSdGhzdsICZZ0qcRtfax6k9xPNr8BOCR9qAR-GE8nYnOP7jAiy5F1ap9SqbqNPcAt64adL8GwA_IqhnIPUVUIlVKu1OwS-YBAojcvq4phvDuMhijn1VX79-u3xkBby2e0Z0xMFWs95T1RJbqatjLK2WQTtzYSlFslzA=&amp;c=TUwMLI9X1meEdETlr7kHThcx5-3ZXitat6PIgkXqm6Gqobegc9Ywpw==&amp;ch=CONgrh74vdstSaO5H_UMYfyeRR50nbbzFDRI5JUXy7lVKi2MGiJjMg==" 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 broadband 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 broadband 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=001MwnkJ-bncSdGhzdsICZZ0qcRtfax6k9xPNr8BOCR9qAR-GE8nYnOP7jAiy5F1ap9RCMaN-CLr4JwbsZIBlt9A0P-B4ZCoUz3buc8Vl5KhWDT5hHslidJW-OY1MZu89HF-bkAqptJZIKzJSNsUFi0jKPDo4eznff2&amp;c=TUwMLI9X1meEdETlr7kHThcx5-3ZXitat6PIgkXqm6Gqobegc9Ywpw==&amp;ch=CONgrh74vdstSaO5H_UMYfyeRR50nbbzFDRI5JUXy7lVKi2MGiJjMg==" target="_blank">senior leadership</a>&nbsp;of Design Nine has extensive, hands-on experience designing and managing telecommunications and broadband 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.<h2>Andrew Cohill, Design Nine President</h2>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 broadband 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 broadband 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 broadband networks.&nbsp;He has provided assistance to community broadband projects throughout North America, including Canada and the Caribbean. Design Nine provides broadband 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 broadband 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.<h2>Jack Maytum,&nbsp;Senior Broadband Analyst</h2>Jack Maytum is a Senior Broadband Analyst with Design Nine.&nbsp;Over the ten years with the company, Maytum has worked with dozens of town, county, and city broadband 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.

Saline County — Call to action Broadband Community Assessment

Memorial Day is&nbsp;when Americans remember fallen service members from the diverse branches of the United States Military who have fought in various conflicts throughout modern history.

In Salina, the Leslie W. Kreps American Legion Post 62&nbsp;plans to honor fallen heroes during an 11 a.m. ceremony at Sunset Park on Monday, May 27. Legion Post 62 invited <a href="https://www.dla.mil/About-DLA/News/News-Article-View/Article/2697347/dla-indo-pacific-bids-farewell-to-military-deputy-commander/">U.S. Army Ret. Col. Julia Bell</a>, who, in 2021, made significant contributions as the Defense Logistics Agency Indo-Pacific Military Deputy Commander.

Legion Post 62 members will also honor fallen soldiers during the ceremony.&nbsp;

The soldier behind Legion Post 62's name, <a href="https://www.honorstates.org/profiles/136883/">Leslie W. Kreps, was a fallen soldier of World War I</a>. He was buried in Romagne, France, and was awarded a Purple Heart and Victory Medal for his military deeds.

Before the Sunset Park ceremony, Roselawn Burial and Cremation Services will host a Memorial Service at the business's location at 2500 E. Crawford St., Salina, KS 67401.

After the ceremony at Sunset Park, the Legion Auxiliary will provide lunch at VFW Post 1432, 1108 W. Crawford St., Salina, KS 67401.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716567054861.png" alt="Leslie W. Kreps American Legion Post 62 honors fallen soldiers with a Memorial Day Service at Sunset Park. Graphic courtesy Leslie W. Kreps American Legion Post 62" />
 <figcaption>Leslie W. Kreps American Legion Post 62 honors fallen soldiers with a Memorial Day Service at Sunset Park. Graphic courtesy Leslie W. Kreps American Legion Post 62</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTMemorial Day is&nbsp;when Americans remember fallen service members from the diverse branches of the United States Military who have fought in various conflicts throughout modern history.In Salina, the Leslie W. Kreps American Legion Post 62&nbsp;plans to honor fallen heroes during an 11 a.m. ceremony at Sunset Park on Monday, May 27. Legion Post 62 invited <a href="https://www.dla.mil/About-DLA/News/News-Article-View/Article/2697347/dla-indo-pacific-bids-farewell-to-military-deputy-commander/">U.S. Army Ret. Col. Julia Bell</a>, who, in 2021, made significant contributions as the Defense Logistics Agency Indo-Pacific Military Deputy Commander.Legion Post 62 members will also honor fallen soldiers during the ceremony.&nbsp;The soldier behind Legion Post 62's name, <a href="https://www.honorstates.org/profiles/136883/">Leslie W. Kreps, was a fallen soldier of World War I</a>. He was buried in Romagne, France, and was awarded a Purple Heart and Victory Medal for his military deeds.Before the Sunset Park ceremony, Roselawn Burial and Cremation Services will host a Memorial Service at the business's location at 2500 E. Crawford St., Salina, KS 67401.After the ceremony at Sunset Park, the Legion Auxiliary will provide lunch at VFW Post 1432, 1108 W. Crawford St., Salina, KS 67401.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/ad8ad756-7606-4915-8909-dc1e1a48f832">LIVE Area KSHSAA State Track Results</a>

Memorial Day celebrations in Salina

Last night, Thursday, May 23, at about 9:59 p.m., a Salina Police Department (SPD) officer in the 800 block of North Broadway Boulevard saw a pair of passengers on a moped without a tail light.

According to SPD Capt. David Villanueva, the officer then attempted a traffic stop with the moped, but instead, the driver continued, leading to a low-speed pursuit.

"It traveled various places all over the&nbsp;north end of the city," Villanueva said.&nbsp;"Our top speed was around 25 mph during this pursuit."

Villanueva said the passenger sitting with the driver attempted to get off the moped multiple times during the pursuit.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574355645622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostLast night, Thursday, May 23, at about 9:59 p.m., a Salina Police Department (SPD) officer in the 800 block of North Broadway Boulevard saw a pair of passengers on a moped without a tail light.According to SPD Capt. David Villanueva, the officer then attempted a traffic stop with the moped, but instead, the driver continued, leading to a low-speed pursuit.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yVhrXYq4HsU?si=fLIlXnXD2Oj7dgth" 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></iframe></div>Video courtesy Travis Ryberg"It traveled various places all over the&nbsp;north end of the city," Villanueva said.&nbsp;"Our top speed was around 25 mph during this pursuit."Villanueva said the passenger sitting with the driver attempted to get off the moped multiple times during the pursuit.After driving through seven stop signs, failing to stop when entering roadways from alleyways and a myriad of driving violations, the driver finally stopped the moped at about 10:04 p.m. in the 700 block of North Broadway Boulevard.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716558026377.jpeg" alt="Zugg, William Henry" />
 <figcaption>Zugg, William Henry</figcaption>
 </figure>SPD officers identified the driver as 51-year-old William Zugg and allegedly found narcotics, drug paraphernalia and a handgun."He was arrested for those things as well as having previous felony convictions, so we had an issue with that," Villanueva said. "So also a felon in possession of a firearm."Officers arrested Zugg and requested charges for multiple driving violations, possession of drug paraphernalia, felony flee and elude, improper driving on a laned roadway, possession of narcotics and possession of a depressant.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/ad8ad756-7606-4915-8909-dc1e1a48f832">LIVE Area KSHSAA State Track Results</a>

Local