Kansas State University and the Kansas Health Foundation, or KHF, are joining forces in a new partnership and funding opportunity aimed at ending hunger at the community level across Kansas.

This collaboration, unveiled on Wednesday during K-State's inaugural&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/engagement/office/week/">Extension and Engagement Week</a>, will leverage the extensive resources and staff of K-State Research and Extension, which operates in all 105 Kansas counties.

"This partnership aligns perfectly with our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/next-gen/">Next-Gen K-State strategic plan</a>, which emphasizes community engagement and innovative solutions to address pressing challenges," said Tim Steffensmeier, K-State assistant vice president and director of engagement and outreach. "With the help of KHF, we are enhancing our land-grant mission to serve and uplift the people of Kansas together."

The partnership's focus on combatting hunger dovetails with&nbsp;<a href="https://hungerfreekansas.org/">KHF's Hunger Free Kansas initiative,</a>&nbsp;which launched earlier this year in response to alarming statistics from Feeding America that indicate one in 10 Kansans and one in five Kansas children face food insecurity.

"Our state universities are vital resources for a healthier, more vibrant and more prosperous state," said Ed O'Malley, KHF president and CEO. "With its rich history of community engagement, agricultural knowledge and statewide outreach, K-State is the perfect partner to help us work in every county of Kansas to fight hunger and food insecurity."

A key element of this partnership will involve collaborative efforts to ignite innovative and experimental projects at the local level, guided by K-State Research and Extension agents. To support these initiatives, KHF is providing $300,000 in funding, primarily directed to local extension offices through mini-grants.

"Through this partnership, we can empower our local communities to develop tailored solutions to food insecurity," said Gregg Hadley, K-State assistant vice president and director of extension. "By supporting innovative projects on the ground, we can inspire meaningful change that directly benefits our neighbors and friends across Kansas."

Local extension agents will be invited to apply for the mini-grants through a streamlined process managed by K-State Research and Extension, with the aim of distributing funds in early 2025.

"At the Kansas Health Foundation, our work centers around the goal of helping Kansas lead the nation in health," O'Malley said. "That won't happen unless we forge strategic partnerships with outstanding institutions like K-State. We know the K-State community believes in the present and future of our state, and we're grateful to work hand-in-hand with all Wildcats on this initiative."

This partnership not only reflects K-State's commitment to its land-grant mission but also advances the Next-Gen K-State strategic plan by fostering innovative solutions to hunger, ultimately strengthening communities throughout Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729707392568.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedKansas State University and the Kansas Health Foundation, or KHF, are joining forces in a new partnership and funding opportunity aimed at ending hunger at the community level across Kansas.This collaboration, unveiled on Wednesday during K-State's inaugural&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/engagement/office/week/">Extension and Engagement Week</a>, will leverage the extensive resources and staff of K-State Research and Extension, which operates in all 105 Kansas counties."This partnership aligns perfectly with our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/next-gen/">Next-Gen K-State strategic plan</a>, which emphasizes community engagement and innovative solutions to address pressing challenges," said Tim Steffensmeier, K-State assistant vice president and director of engagement and outreach. "With the help of KHF, we are enhancing our land-grant mission to serve and uplift the people of Kansas together."The partnership's focus on combatting hunger dovetails with&nbsp;<a href="https://hungerfreekansas.org/">KHF's Hunger Free Kansas initiative,</a>&nbsp;which launched earlier this year in response to alarming statistics from Feeding America that indicate one in 10 Kansans and one in five Kansas children face food insecurity."Our state universities are vital resources for a healthier, more vibrant and more prosperous state," said Ed O'Malley, KHF president and CEO. "With its rich history of community engagement, agricultural knowledge and statewide outreach, K-State is the perfect partner to help us work in every county of Kansas to fight hunger and food insecurity."A key element of this partnership will involve collaborative efforts to ignite innovative and experimental projects at the local level, guided by K-State Research and Extension agents. To support these initiatives, KHF is providing $300,000 in funding, primarily directed to local extension offices through mini-grants."Through this partnership, we can empower our local communities to develop tailored solutions to food insecurity," said Gregg Hadley, K-State assistant vice president and director of extension. "By supporting innovative projects on the ground, we can inspire meaningful change that directly benefits our neighbors and friends across Kansas."Local extension agents will be invited to apply for the mini-grants through a streamlined process managed by K-State Research and Extension, with the aim of distributing funds in early 2025."At the Kansas Health Foundation, our work centers around the goal of helping Kansas lead the nation in health," O'Malley said. "That won't happen unless we forge strategic partnerships with outstanding institutions like K-State. We know the K-State community believes in the present and future of our state, and we're grateful to work hand-in-hand with all Wildcats on this initiative."This partnership not only reflects K-State's commitment to its land-grant mission but also advances the Next-Gen K-State strategic plan by fostering innovative solutions to hunger, ultimately strengthening communities throughout Kansas.

K-State, Kansas Health Foundation team up for statewide efforts to end hunger

Submitted For the second fall in a row,&nbsp;Salina Area Technical College&nbsp;reaches&nbsp;a major milestone with more than 1,000 students enrolled.

According to data collected for the Kansas Board of Regents on the 20th day of fall classes, Salina Tech has&nbsp;1,008&nbsp;students,&nbsp;up&nbsp;1&nbsp;from the&nbsp;1,007&nbsp;in the fall of 2023.&nbsp;

On a full-time equivalent (FTE) basis, enrollment&nbsp;was&nbsp;568 this fall,&nbsp;identical to the FTE from 2023 and&nbsp;crossing the 500&nbsp;mark&nbsp;for the&nbsp;second&nbsp;time&nbsp;in as many years.&nbsp;FTEs are calculated by dividing the total number of credit hours students are enrolled in and dividing by 15.&nbsp;

In percentage terms, headcount increased&nbsp;0.1&nbsp;percent over last year, while FTEs were&nbsp;flat at 0.0&nbsp;percent.

Over the past five years, Salina Tech’s headcount has grown by&nbsp;27.4percent, and FTEs have grown by 30.3&nbsp;percent –&nbsp;keeping&nbsp;Salina Tech&nbsp;as&nbsp;the fastest-growing college in Kansas.&nbsp;Looking back, the&nbsp;highest&nbsp;number of students enrolled at Salina Tech&nbsp;have occurred in five of the past six years.&nbsp;The lone exception was fall 2020 which was limited due to the pandemic.

Salina Tech President Greg Nichols said he&nbsp;expected&nbsp;the growth&nbsp;to level off&nbsp;and&nbsp;explained&nbsp;what it represents.

“The college has experienced tremendous growth in my tenure as president,” Nichols said. “That is due in large part to the great work of our employees to achieve accreditation and meeting the needs of our regional partners in workforce.”

“We expected limited growth this year due to lack of space to accommodate more students,” he said. “Our board accepted the challenge of growing the college facilities to meet future demand.”

<a></a>Nichols noted&nbsp;new technical programs were added including Pharmacy Tech and Industrial Maintenance and Automation&nbsp;this&nbsp;past year, to&nbsp;help meet workforce needs.

“This&nbsp;necessitates&nbsp;more&nbsp;instructional space&nbsp;which has been supported throughout our community,” Nichols said. “Our new building will help us reach future goals of growth.”

Across Kansas, the state universities experienced an average&nbsp;enrollment increase&nbsp;of&nbsp;2.3&nbsp;percent. The state’s community colleges averaged a&nbsp;5.9&nbsp;percent&nbsp;increase, while the six technical colleges averaged&nbsp;an&nbsp;5.3&nbsp;percent increase in enrollment.&nbsp;Compared to five years ago, university enrollments are down 2.8 percent, community colleges down 4.9 percent, while technical colleges are up 18.1 percent.

“I think people really do see the shining diamond we have in Salina that grows and stabilizes our economy,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673715940863.jpeg" alt="Salina Tech Building A Jan. 2021 feat Photo courtesy Salina Tech.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Salina Tech Building A Jan. 2021 feat Photo courtesy Salina Tech.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted For the second fall in a row,&nbsp;Salina Area Technical College&nbsp;reaches&nbsp;a major milestone with more than 1,000 students enrolled.According to data collected for the Kansas Board of Regents on the 20th day of fall classes, Salina Tech has&nbsp;1,008&nbsp;students,&nbsp;up&nbsp;1&nbsp;from the&nbsp;1,007&nbsp;in the fall of 2023.&nbsp;On a full-time equivalent (FTE) basis, enrollment&nbsp;was&nbsp;568 this fall,&nbsp;identical to the FTE from 2023 and&nbsp;crossing the 500&nbsp;mark&nbsp;for the&nbsp;second&nbsp;time&nbsp;in as many years.&nbsp;FTEs are calculated by dividing the total number of credit hours students are enrolled in and dividing by 15.&nbsp;In percentage terms, headcount increased&nbsp;0.1&nbsp;percent over last year, while FTEs were&nbsp;flat at 0.0&nbsp;percent.Over the past five years, Salina Tech’s headcount has grown by&nbsp;27.4percent, and FTEs have grown by 30.3&nbsp;percent –&nbsp;keeping&nbsp;Salina Tech&nbsp;as&nbsp;the fastest-growing college in Kansas.&nbsp;Looking back, the&nbsp;highest&nbsp;number of students enrolled at Salina Tech&nbsp;have occurred in five of the past six years.&nbsp;The lone exception was fall 2020 which was limited due to the pandemic.Salina Tech President Greg Nichols said he&nbsp;expected&nbsp;the growth&nbsp;to level off&nbsp;and&nbsp;explained&nbsp;what it represents.“The college has experienced tremendous growth in my tenure as president,” Nichols said. “That is due in large part to the great work of our employees to achieve accreditation and meeting the needs of our regional partners in workforce.”“We expected limited growth this year due to lack of space to accommodate more students,” he said. “Our board accepted the challenge of growing the college facilities to meet future demand.”<a></a>Nichols noted&nbsp;new technical programs were added including Pharmacy Tech and Industrial Maintenance and Automation&nbsp;this&nbsp;past year, to&nbsp;help meet workforce needs.“This&nbsp;necessitates&nbsp;more&nbsp;instructional space&nbsp;which has been supported throughout our community,” Nichols said. “Our new building will help us reach future goals of growth.”Across Kansas, the state universities experienced an average&nbsp;enrollment increase&nbsp;of&nbsp;2.3&nbsp;percent. The state’s community colleges averaged a&nbsp;5.9&nbsp;percent&nbsp;increase, while the six technical colleges averaged&nbsp;an&nbsp;5.3&nbsp;percent increase in enrollment.&nbsp;Compared to five years ago, university enrollments are down 2.8 percent, community colleges down 4.9 percent, while technical colleges are up 18.1 percent.“I think people really do see the shining diamond we have in Salina that grows and stabilizes our economy,” he said.

Salina Tech enrolls more than 1,000 students for fall semester

Submitted After a spectacular concert reopened Sams Chapel Oct. 19, Kansas Wesleyan's Wind Ensemble and String Orchestra will take to that stage once again&nbsp;on Thursday, Oct. 24, beginning at 6 p.m. Admission is free.

"We are so thankful for how the community turned out to support our program last week," said Michelle Dolan, executive director of music. "Both of these groups did an outstanding job as a part of the 'Come Home' concert, and we look forward to seeing what they share with us Thursday."

The event is scheduled to be livestreamed free of charge at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGYzOGbmqfc">www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGYzOGbmqfc</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729686210007.jpeg" alt="KWU strings at the Sams Chapel Coming Home Concert. KWU photo" />
 <figcaption>KWU strings at the Sams Chapel Coming Home Concert. KWU photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted After a spectacular concert reopened Sams Chapel Oct. 19, Kansas Wesleyan's Wind Ensemble and String Orchestra will take to that stage once again&nbsp;on Thursday, Oct. 24, beginning at 6 p.m. Admission is free."We are so thankful for how the community turned out to support our program last week," said Michelle Dolan, executive director of music. "Both of these groups did an outstanding job as a part of the 'Come Home' concert, and we look forward to seeing what they share with us Thursday."The event is scheduled to be livestreamed free of charge at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGYzOGbmqfc">www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGYzOGbmqfc</a>.

KWU Wind Ensemble, String Orchestra free concert Oct. 24

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.

Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Outside warrant/NCIC hit

Burglary; Non-dwelling to commit felony, theft, domestic violence, or sexually motivated crime

Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing: nose/mouth

Criminal Damage to Property; Value Unknown

Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation ViolationUse/poss drug paraphernalian/human bodyDriving While Suspended, Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

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

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/2024/10/1729685060146.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Boyett,Shane Richard MichaelREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appearTheft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729685188007.jpeg" alt="Clark,Alexis Grace" />
 <figcaption>Clark,Alexis Grace</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Clark,Alexis GraceREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appearFailure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729685242392.jpeg" alt=" Corwin,Brent Allen" />
 <figcaption> Corwin,Brent Allen</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Corwin,Brent AllenREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Outside warrant/NCIC hitBurglary; Non-dwelling to commit felony, theft, domestic violence, or sexually motivated crimeUse/poss drug paraphernalian/human bodyPoss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729685321139.jpeg" alt=" Elliott,Robert Eugene" />
 <figcaption> Elliott,Robert Eugene</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Elliott,Robert EugeneREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729685374540.jpeg" alt=" Hern,Sierra Nicole" />
 <figcaption> Hern,Sierra Nicole</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Hern,Sierra NicoleREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729685445835.jpeg" alt="Majors,Jeffrey Wayne" />
 <figcaption>Majors,Jeffrey Wayne</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Majors,Jeffrey WayneREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing: nose/mouthCriminal Damage to Property; Value UnknownDomestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729685507490.jpeg" alt=" Martinez,Amanda Nicole" />
 <figcaption> Martinez,Amanda Nicole</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Martinez,Amanda NicoleREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729685567963.jpeg" alt="McMiller,Andre Javon" />
 <figcaption>McMiller,Andre Javon</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;McMiller,Andre JavonREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation ViolationUse/poss drug paraphernalian/human bodyDriving While Suspended, Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729685627421.jpeg" alt="Murch,Steven Tait " />
 <figcaption>Murch,Steven Tait </figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Murch,Steven TaitREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729685682832.jpeg" alt=" Peterson,Kody Wayne" />
 <figcaption> Peterson,Kody Wayne</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Peterson,Kody WayneREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729685729176.jpeg" alt=" Wrinkle,Edgar Eugene" />
 <figcaption> Wrinkle,Edgar Eugene</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Wrinkle,Edgar EugeneREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear

Saline County Jail Bookings, Oct. 23

Prairieland Market, a locally sourced organic non-profit food market, is making the final preparations for its move from Walnut Street to downtown Santa Fe Avenue in Salina.&nbsp;

The new storefront, located at 118 South Santa Fe Avenue, will have adjusted hours of operation. Currently, open Tuesday through Saturday, Prairieland Market's new schedule will be Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Customers should note that the market’s popular CSA (community-supported agriculture) service will be paused for two weeks, on October 15 and October 22, and will automatically resume once the new location is open.

To celebrate this exciting transition, Prairieland Market has planned several events. On Tuesday, October 22, a donor appreciation event will be held in honor of the many individuals and organizations that have supported the market’s growth. 

The grand opening of the new downtown location is scheduled for Saturday, November 9, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m&nbsp; at 118 S. Santa Fe Avenue.

The new store will offer Prairieland Market several key features, including a fully equipped commercial kitchen that will allow for freshly prepared foods daily, a seating area for customers to enjoy meals from the kitchen’s offerings, and a water dispensing system providing reverse osmosis, deionized, and high pH alkaline water. 

Additionally, there will be a convenient window for Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) share customers to pick up their weekly or bi-weekly produce subscriptions.

Vickee Spicer, executive director for Prairlieland Market said she is excited for the market to officially move into the new, much larger space. 

"It's three or four times as much space as we have now," Spicer said. "We'll do more than four times as much activity there and then we can also have classes. So we can help the community understand and learn how to preserve food, how to prepare it, how to meal plan."

To learn more about Prairieland Market's mission <a href="https://www.prairielandmarket.org/">click here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723470460134.jpeg" alt="Prairieland Market's new location is on Santa Fe Avenue.&nbsp;The grand opening of the new downtown Salina location is scheduled for Saturday, November 9, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m. at 118 S. Santa Fe Avenue.&nbsp; The market will host a "soft opening" on Oct. 23" />
 <figcaption>Prairieland Market's new location is on Santa Fe Avenue.&nbsp;The grand opening of the new downtown Salina location is scheduled for Saturday, November 9, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m. at 118 S. Santa Fe Avenue.&nbsp; The market will host a "soft opening" on Oct. 23</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTPrairieland Market, a locally sourced organic non-profit food market, is making the final preparations for its move from Walnut Street to downtown Santa Fe Avenue in Salina.&nbsp;The new storefront, located at 118 South Santa Fe Avenue, will have adjusted hours of operation. Currently, open Tuesday through Saturday, Prairieland Market's new schedule will be Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Customers should note that the market’s popular CSA (community-supported agriculture) service will be paused for two weeks, on October 15 and October 22, and will automatically resume once the new location is open.To celebrate this exciting transition, Prairieland Market has planned several events. On Tuesday, October 22, a donor appreciation event will be held in honor of the many individuals and organizations that have supported the market’s growth. The grand opening of the new downtown location is scheduled for Saturday, November 9, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m&nbsp; at 118 S. Santa Fe Avenue.The new store will offer Prairieland Market several key features, including a fully equipped commercial kitchen that will allow for freshly prepared foods daily, a seating area for customers to enjoy meals from the kitchen’s offerings, and a water dispensing system providing reverse osmosis, deionized, and high pH alkaline water. Additionally, there will be a convenient window for Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) share customers to pick up their weekly or bi-weekly produce subscriptions.Vickee Spicer, executive director for Prairlieland Market said she is excited for the market to officially move into the new, much larger space. "It's three or four times as much space as we have now," Spicer said. "We'll do more than four times as much activity there and then we can also have classes. So we can help the community understand and learn how to preserve food, how to prepare it, how to meal plan."To learn more about Prairieland Market's mission <a href="https://www.prairielandmarket.org/">click here</a>.&nbsp;

Prairieland Market relocating to Santa Fe, grand opening Nov. 9

Dickinson County Sheriff's deputies and Abilene Police Department officers are investigating an Oklahoma man for alleged child sex crimes in Kansas.

On&nbsp;March 29, the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation after a tip was received regarding sexual exploitation of a child, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.

Investigators were able to develop a suspect in the case and during the investigation additional allegations of child sex crimes were discovered. 

On October 19, the Abilene Police Department located and arrested 45-year-old Stephen Gillenwater of Bristow, Oklahoma in reference to an arrest warrant that had been issued in the case. 

Gillenwater was booked into the Dickinson County Detention Facility on requested charges of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, electronic Solicitation of a child, Sexual exploitation of a child and Aggravated Endangerment of a child.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729608765227.png" alt="Gillenwater photo Dickinson County" />
 <figcaption>Gillenwater photo Dickinson County</figcaption>
 </figure>Dickinson County Sheriff's deputies and Abilene Police Department officers are investigating an Oklahoma man for alleged child sex crimes in Kansas.On&nbsp;March 29, the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation after a tip was received regarding sexual exploitation of a child, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.Investigators were able to develop a suspect in the case and during the investigation additional allegations of child sex crimes were discovered. On October 19, the Abilene Police Department located and arrested 45-year-old Stephen Gillenwater of Bristow, Oklahoma in reference to an arrest warrant that had been issued in the case. Gillenwater was booked into the Dickinson County Detention Facility on requested charges of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, electronic Solicitation of a child, Sexual exploitation of a child and Aggravated Endangerment of a child.

Oklahoma man accused of child sex crimes in Dickinson Co.

Salina Police Department Officers are investigating the theft of electrical wire from a construction site in north Salina.

According to a report from the Salina Police Department (SPD), an employee of Heineken Electric reported that sometime between October 16 and the morning of October 21, unknown suspects removed a lock on a trailer located at a construction site at 2201 N. Ohio Street. 

The suspects allegedly stole six spools of 14-16 gauge electrical wire. The total value of the stolen wire is estimated at $2,000.

SPD is urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Salina Police Department or submit an anonymous tip to Crimestoppers.&nbsp;

If you have any information concerning this incident or identification of the individual involved, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS. You can also make an on—line tip at:

<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#">https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#</a>. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000. Tipsters may also contact the Salina Police Department at (785) 826-7210, case 2024-30868.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592416874210.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTSalina Police Department Officers are investigating the theft of electrical wire from a construction site in north Salina.According to a report from the Salina Police Department (SPD), an employee of Heineken Electric reported that sometime between October 16 and the morning of October 21, unknown suspects removed a lock on a trailer located at a construction site at 2201 N. Ohio Street. The suspects allegedly stole six spools of 14-16 gauge electrical wire. The total value of the stolen wire is estimated at $2,000.SPD is urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Salina Police Department or submit an anonymous tip to Crimestoppers.&nbsp;If you have any information concerning this incident or identification of the individual involved, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS. You can also make an on—line tip at:<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#">https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#</a>. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000. Tipsters may also contact the Salina Police Department at (785) 826-7210, case 2024-30868.

SPD investigating electrical wire theft from construction site

Precipitation data courtesy CoCoRaHS and The National Weather Service.  

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

By SALINA POSTPrecipitation data courtesy CoCoRaHS and The National Weather Service. Following precipitation events, Salina Post will update this page with precipitation totals. 24-Hour Precipitation TotalsAs of 10/22/2024 at 8:50 a.m.Salina —0.52 inchesEllsworth — 0.48 inchesKanopolis — 0.95 inchesLindsborg — 0.40 inchesAbilene — 0.38 inchesClay Center — 0.20 inchesMinneapolis — 0.56 inchesChapman&nbsp;— 0.44 inchesBeverly — 0.72 inchesMcPherson — 0.62 inchesGypsum — 0.36 inchesInman — 0.94 inchesPeabody — 0.05 inchesAssaria — 0.77 inches

CoCoRaHS 24-hour rain totals

Governor Laura Kelly joined Evergy executives and legislative leaders yesterday to announce that&nbsp;the company will invest more than $2 billion in building two new 705 megawatt (MW) combined-cycle natural gas plants in Kansas. Together, the new projects will provide more than 1,400 MW of dispatchable power.

“Kansas is experiencing record economic growth, and Evergy is prepared to deliver the reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy needed,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “Evergy’s multi-billion-dollar investment brings direct value to the Hutchinson and Sumner County areas in jobs and tax dollars. It also ensures Kansas can continue to invite business growth that benefits the entire state.”

The plant in Sumner County is expected to begin providing electricity in 2029, and the plant in Reno County is expected to be in service in 2030.

“High-efficiency, modern natural gas plants will meet the electricity needs for our region’s growing economy. These plants also will bring good paying jobs and tax dollars to Kansas,”&nbsp;said David Campbell, Evergy chairman, president and chief executive officer. “Dispatchable natural gas is an important resource within Evergy’s growing and diverse energy portfolio, complementing our planned investment in wind and solar resources and supporting our commitment to affordable, reliable, and sustainable electricity.”

During construction, more than 500 jobs are anticipated for each plant. After a 10-year exemption, each plant will provide more than $500 million in property tax revenues over its service life and will bring to the communities 20 to 40 skilled craft jobs that pay more than $90,000 annually.

Since 2019, the Kelly administration has created 1,284 committed economic development projects worth more than $19.9 billion in capital investment and nearly 69,000 jobs.

This spring, Governor Kelly signed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kslegislature.gov%2Fli%2Fb2023_24%2Fmeasures%2Fhb2527%2F/1/01010192b0f04597-70f4e3a8-2fc6-41df-a13d-a29f97b07d2a-000000/riOoOFL-a4UR2fRnURW4zBfc5WC5LA_qD5XmPz8CguI=375">House Bill 2527</a>, a bipartisan bill that enhances Kansas policies to incentivize electric infrastructure investment, which is critical to ensuring Kansas has the infrastructure needed to meet the energy needs of Kansas citizens and businesses. This legislation makes Kansas more competitive for investment, increases opportunities for economic development, and ultimately saves Kansas ratepayers money on their electric bills.

“We are pleased that a legislative policy we championed is helping ensure a strong energy future for the state of Kansas,”&nbsp;Speaker of the House Dan Hawkins said. “I look forward to seeing the benefits this brings in terms of jobs, economic growth, and energy security for our state for years to come.”

“Kansans depend on reliable electricity each and every day to power their lives and their businesses,”&nbsp;Senate President Ty Masterson said. “These investments by a long-time Kansas energy company will make our state even more attractive to those wanting to live, work, and grow a business in our great state.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729604239636.jpeg" alt="Gov. Kelly announces that Evergy will invest more than $2 billion in natural gas plants in Kansas. Photo Courtesy Gov. Kelly's Office" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Kelly announces that Evergy will invest more than $2 billion in natural gas plants in Kansas. Photo Courtesy Gov. Kelly's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedGovernor Laura Kelly joined Evergy executives and legislative leaders yesterday to announce that&nbsp;the company will invest more than $2 billion in building two new 705 megawatt (MW) combined-cycle natural gas plants in Kansas. Together, the new projects will provide more than 1,400 MW of dispatchable power.“Kansas is experiencing record economic growth, and Evergy is prepared to deliver the reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy needed,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “Evergy’s multi-billion-dollar investment brings direct value to the Hutchinson and Sumner County areas in jobs and tax dollars. It also ensures Kansas can continue to invite business growth that benefits the entire state.”The plant in Sumner County is expected to begin providing electricity in 2029, and the plant in Reno County is expected to be in service in 2030.“High-efficiency, modern natural gas plants will meet the electricity needs for our region’s growing economy. These plants also will bring good paying jobs and tax dollars to Kansas,”&nbsp;said David Campbell, Evergy chairman, president and chief executive officer. “Dispatchable natural gas is an important resource within Evergy’s growing and diverse energy portfolio, complementing our planned investment in wind and solar resources and supporting our commitment to affordable, reliable, and sustainable electricity.”<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/y_sGnE26DzQ?si=3SuPXEtj42ngHfgf" 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>During construction, more than 500 jobs are anticipated for each plant. After a 10-year exemption, each plant will provide more than $500 million in property tax revenues over its service life and will bring to the communities 20 to 40 skilled craft jobs that pay more than $90,000 annually.Since 2019, the Kelly administration has created 1,284 committed economic development projects worth more than $19.9 billion in capital investment and nearly 69,000 jobs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729598068277.png" alt="A rendering of the proposed Hutchinson 705 MW Evergy Plant. " />
 <figcaption>A rendering of the proposed Hutchinson 705 MW Evergy Plant. </figcaption>
 </figure>This spring, Governor Kelly signed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kslegislature.gov%2Fli%2Fb2023_24%2Fmeasures%2Fhb2527%2F/1/01010192b0f04597-70f4e3a8-2fc6-41df-a13d-a29f97b07d2a-000000/riOoOFL-a4UR2fRnURW4zBfc5WC5LA_qD5XmPz8CguI=375">House Bill 2527</a>, a bipartisan bill that enhances Kansas policies to incentivize electric infrastructure investment, which is critical to ensuring Kansas has the infrastructure needed to meet the energy needs of Kansas citizens and businesses. This legislation makes Kansas more competitive for investment, increases opportunities for economic development, and ultimately saves Kansas ratepayers money on their electric bills.“We are pleased that a legislative policy we championed is helping ensure a strong energy future for the state of Kansas,”&nbsp;Speaker of the House Dan Hawkins said. “I look forward to seeing the benefits this brings in terms of jobs, economic growth, and energy security for our state for years to come.”“Kansans depend on reliable electricity each and every day to power their lives and their businesses,”&nbsp;Senate President Ty Masterson said. “These investments by a long-time Kansas energy company will make our state even more attractive to those wanting to live, work, and grow a business in our great state.”

Gov. Kelly announces Evergy's $2B investment in two new natural gas plants

As the holidays approach, take advantage of the cheer that the Friends of the Smoky Hill Museum’s colorful poinsettias. The Museum’s poinsettias are long-lasting, nursery-grown plants, available in six vibrant shades for 2024. The flowering plants will brighten home, office or church, to encourage loved ones or shut-ins and to reduce holiday stress for yourself and others.

The full,&nbsp;18-inch Small plants are $15. The luxurious,&nbsp;24-inch Medium plants are $30. Both options&nbsp;are multi-stem plants&nbsp;available in solid red, pink or white, plus three special varieties for 2024:&nbsp;Marble&nbsp;(cream leaves with bold pink stripes or striations; pictured);&nbsp;Jingle Bell&nbsp;(red leaves with cream speckles) and&nbsp;Christmas Mouse&nbsp;(red with rounded petals) which is only available in the small plant.. Also available is the stunning&nbsp;36-inch Large, only in Christmas red&nbsp;for $45, ideal for fireplace, foyer or doorway use.

Order 30 plants and take $2 off per plant. Members of the Friends of the Smoky Hill Museum receive a special discount of $1 off each plant. Pick up your plants on Saturday, December 7 between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm. Or, doorstep delivery to your home, office, church or to someone you know, is just $15 per stop in the Salina metro area.

The annual Poinsettia Sale helps make possible the Smoky Hill Museum’s educational programs and events that benefit many students, children and families. 

Pre-order your plants from now through November 15.&nbsp;To order, go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.smokyhillmuseum.org/poinsettia_sale.html">https://www.smokyhillmuseum.org/poinsettia_sale.html</a>&nbsp;for information, a downloadable order form or you can order online. For more information, please call 785-309-5776, or email rosa.delacruz@salina.org.

When picking up your poinsettias in early December, visit the Museum Store for creative holiday gift ideas. From gourmet Kansas food products to local artwork, including stunning wheat weaving, artist-made greeting cards and handmade pottery, the Museum Store has something for everyone on your list, including those who love or have lived in the Sunflower State.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729603956889.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedAs the holidays approach, take advantage of the cheer that the Friends of the Smoky Hill Museum’s colorful poinsettias. The Museum’s poinsettias are long-lasting, nursery-grown plants, available in six vibrant shades for 2024. The flowering plants will brighten home, office or church, to encourage loved ones or shut-ins and to reduce holiday stress for yourself and others.The full,&nbsp;18-inch Small plants are $15. The luxurious,&nbsp;24-inch Medium plants are $30. Both options&nbsp;are multi-stem plants&nbsp;available in solid red, pink or white, plus three special varieties for 2024:&nbsp;Marble&nbsp;(cream leaves with bold pink stripes or striations; pictured);&nbsp;Jingle Bell&nbsp;(red leaves with cream speckles) and&nbsp;Christmas Mouse&nbsp;(red with rounded petals) which is only available in the small plant.. Also available is the stunning&nbsp;36-inch Large, only in Christmas red&nbsp;for $45, ideal for fireplace, foyer or doorway use.Order 30 plants and take $2 off per plant. Members of the Friends of the Smoky Hill Museum receive a special discount of $1 off each plant. Pick up your plants on Saturday, December 7 between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm. Or, doorstep delivery to your home, office, church or to someone you know, is just $15 per stop in the Salina metro area.The annual Poinsettia Sale helps make possible the Smoky Hill Museum’s educational programs and events that benefit many students, children and families. Pre-order your plants from now through November 15.&nbsp;To order, go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.smokyhillmuseum.org/poinsettia_sale.html">https://www.smokyhillmuseum.org/poinsettia_sale.html</a>&nbsp;for information, a downloadable order form or you can order online. For more information, please call 785-309-5776, or email rosa.delacruz@salina.org.When picking up your poinsettias in early December, visit the Museum Store for creative holiday gift ideas. From gourmet Kansas food products to local artwork, including stunning wheat weaving, artist-made greeting cards and handmade pottery, the Museum Store has something for everyone on your list, including those who love or have lived in the Sunflower State.

Poinsettia Sale fundraiser for the Friends of the Smoky Hill Museum

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

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

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): 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/2024/10/1729598580148.jpeg" alt="Barry,Rebecca Lynn" />
 <figcaption>Barry,Rebecca Lynn</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Barry,Rebecca LynnREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severityTransporting an open container<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729598656677.jpeg" alt="Blaylock,Deborah Sue" />
 <figcaption>Blaylock,Deborah Sue</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Blaylock,Deborah SueREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729598993378.jpeg" alt=" Clark,John Daniel" />
 <figcaption> Clark,John Daniel</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Clark,John DanielREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation ViolationUse/poss drug paraphernalian/human bodyInterf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose misd warrantPoss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729599051828.jpeg" alt="Hillman,Christopher Shane" />
 <figcaption>Hillman,Christopher Shane</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Hillman,Christopher ShaneREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729599119449.jpeg" alt="Trocheck,Jonathon Blake" />
 <figcaption>Trocheck,Jonathon Blake</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Trocheck,Jonathon BlakeREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Failure to appearFailure to appear

Saline County Jail Bookings, Oct. 22

Voting for the 2024 General Election is underway in Saline County. Today, October 21, marks the first day of early voting, and residents were outside the doors of the City-County building as early as 6:00 a.m., waiting to make their voices heard in the ballot box.&nbsp;

Saline County Clerk and local Elections Official, Jamie Doss said as of 4:30 p.m. Monday, more than 711 Saline County residents voted.&nbsp;

"We typically see anywhere from 400 to 450 voters cast their ballots on the first day of early voting," Doss said. " I was really pleased with how our election workers greeted voters and helped keep the lines moving."

Doss said that election workers offered voters waiting in line the option of completeing a paper ballot, as opposed to waiting to use the machines.&nbsp;

"We had a little bit of a line, but I'm really proud of our election workers," Doss said.&nbsp;

Robert, a voter standing in line, mentioned that he's casting his ballot early this year because he'll be working on Election Day. Another voter, Gary, who had recently moved to Saline County from Phillipsburg, was also waiting in line to vote. He said it was important to get the right candidate elected.&nbsp;

Joanne Dellinger, a resident of Saline County for 47 years, said she typically doesn’t vote this early.

"I just wanted to make sure I got my vote in as soon as possible for sure," Dellinger said.&nbsp;

Important dates for the 2024 General Election:

Oct. 21 — Early Voting in office Begins 

Oct. 29 — Last Apply for an Advance Ballot by Mail

Nov. 2 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. — Saturday Advance Voting in the County Election Office

Kansans can check on their voter registration status at the&nbsp;<a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>&nbsp;here.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729525909544.jpeg" alt="Voters line up to vote at the Saline County Building on Oct. 21, the first day of early voting. Photo by NATE KING" />
 <figcaption>Voters line up to vote at the Saline County Building on Oct. 21, the first day of early voting. Photo by NATE KING</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POST Voting for the 2024 General Election is underway in Saline County. Today, October 21, marks the first day of early voting, and residents were outside the doors of the City-County building as early as 6:00 a.m., waiting to make their voices heard in the ballot box.&nbsp;Saline County Clerk and local Elections Official, Jamie Doss said as of 4:30 p.m. Monday, more than 711 Saline County residents voted.&nbsp;"We typically see anywhere from 400 to 450 voters cast their ballots on the first day of early voting," Doss said. " I was really pleased with how our election workers greeted voters and helped keep the lines moving." Doss said that election workers offered voters waiting in line the option of completeing a paper ballot, as opposed to waiting to use the machines.&nbsp;"We had a little bit of a line, but I'm really proud of our election workers," Doss said.&nbsp;Robert, a voter standing in line, mentioned that he's casting his ballot early this year because he'll be working on Election Day. Another voter, Gary, who had recently moved to Saline County from Phillipsburg, was also waiting in line to vote. He said it was important to get the right candidate elected.&nbsp;Joanne Dellinger, a resident of Saline County for 47 years, said she typically doesn’t vote this early."I just wanted to make sure I got my vote in as soon as possible for sure," Dellinger said.&nbsp;<h2>Important dates for the 2024 General Election:</h2>Oct. 21 — Early Voting in office Begins Oct. 29 — Last Apply for an Advance Ballot by MailNov. 2 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. — Saturday Advance Voting in the County Election OfficeNov. 4 — Advance Voting ends at NoonNov. 5 | 7 a.m.-7 p.m. — Election DayKansans can check on their voter registration status at the&nbsp;<a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>&nbsp;here.&nbsp;

UPDATED: More than 700 Saline County residents cast their ballots on the first day of early voting

The Saline County&nbsp;Road&nbsp;&amp; Bridge Department received an Honorable Mention in the 2024 Build a Better Mousetrap competition for its Bed Up Indicator project, which enhances safety for both workers and the public. The project was acknowledged under the Smart Transformation Award category for its practical improvement in transportation processes.

The Build a Better Mousetrap competition, organized by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), highlights local agencies that use creativity and resourcefulness to improve safety, reduce costs, and increase efficiency. Saline County's Bed Up Indicator system was designed to solve an issue where dump trucks occasionally collided with overhead wires, trees, and other obstacles due to unintentional raising of the truck bed.

To address this, the Saline County&nbsp;Road&nbsp;&amp; Bridge team installed a microswitch system that triggers a warning signal that activates a light and sounds an alarm inside the operator's cab if the dump bed begins to rise unexpectedly. This solution helps prevent accidents, reduces the need for costly repairs, and improves driver awareness.

"We’re proud of our team for coming up with a solution that directly addresses a recurring issue," said Darren Fishel,&nbsp;Road&nbsp;and Bridge Department Supervisor. "The Bed Up Indicator improves overall safety and efficiency, ensuring our&nbsp;roads are safer for both operators and the community."

Last year, the Saline County&nbsp;Road&nbsp;and Bridge Department was recognized in the Build a Better Mousetrap competition for implementing vertical red reflective taping on stop and stop-ahead signs. This simple enhancement improved visibility, especially in low-light conditions and bad weather, offering a practical, cost-effective solution for increasing&nbsp;road&nbsp;safety and preventing accidents.

These projects showcase how simple, local innovation can create a significant impact. The Build a Better Mousetrap competition recognizes projects that tackle everyday challenges with practical, home-grown solutions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639621309216.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Saline County&nbsp;Road&nbsp;&amp; Bridge Department received an Honorable Mention in the 2024 Build a Better Mousetrap competition for its Bed Up Indicator project, which enhances safety for both workers and the public. The project was acknowledged under the Smart Transformation Award category for its practical improvement in transportation processes.The Build a Better Mousetrap competition, organized by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), highlights local agencies that use creativity and resourcefulness to improve safety, reduce costs, and increase efficiency. Saline County's Bed Up Indicator system was designed to solve an issue where dump trucks occasionally collided with overhead wires, trees, and other obstacles due to unintentional raising of the truck bed.To address this, the Saline County&nbsp;Road&nbsp;&amp; Bridge team installed a microswitch system that triggers a warning signal that activates a light and sounds an alarm inside the operator's cab if the dump bed begins to rise unexpectedly. This solution helps prevent accidents, reduces the need for costly repairs, and improves driver awareness."We’re proud of our team for coming up with a solution that directly addresses a recurring issue," said Darren Fishel,&nbsp;Road&nbsp;and Bridge Department Supervisor. "The Bed Up Indicator improves overall safety and efficiency, ensuring our&nbsp;roads are safer for both operators and the community."Last year, the Saline County&nbsp;Road&nbsp;and Bridge Department was recognized in the Build a Better Mousetrap competition for implementing vertical red reflective taping on stop and stop-ahead signs. This simple enhancement improved visibility, especially in low-light conditions and bad weather, offering a practical, cost-effective solution for increasing&nbsp;road&nbsp;safety and preventing accidents.These projects showcase how simple, local innovation can create a significant impact. The Build a Better Mousetrap competition recognizes projects that tackle everyday challenges with practical, home-grown solutions.

Saline County Road & Bridge Department receives national recognition for safety

A Salina man was taken into custody after a domestic violence incident at the Budget Host Inn early Saturday. Salina Police Department officers responded to reports of an altercation at the hotel, located at 222 E. Diamond Dr.

When SPD officers arrived on the scene at 2:45 a.m. they spoke with a 37-year-old woman who reported that Christopher Wilson, 32, assaulted her while she was visiting him at the inn.&nbsp;

"She indicated that they got into an argument over some laundry. The argument progressed," said Salina Police Captain James Feldman. "He grabbed her from behind by the neck and restricted her breathing. She did not lose consciousness. She then fell to the ground, where he forcefully pulled her up into a seated position."

The victim attempted to crawl away, outside Wilson's reach when he then grabbed her and dragged her back into the room and began punching her repeatedly in the face, according to Feldman.&nbsp;

"She attempted to get away from the subject and ended up biting him to get him to release," Feldman said. "He then bit her, and she stated that he then grabbed a knife, slapped her."

The victim reported that Wilson struck her with a knife, causing minor injuries to her leg and buttocks, before she managed to flee the room and contact a friend outside, who then notified the police.

Wilson was located by officers at the hotel the following day at around 5 p.m. Feldman said before his alleged attack against the woman,&nbsp; Wilson was living in one of the rooms at the inn.&nbsp;

Wilson was booked into the Saline County Jail on charges of aggravated kidnapping, aggravated battery, aggravated domestic battery, domestic battery, and violation of a protection order.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729514567249.png" alt="Wilson, Christopher Todd" />
 <figcaption>Wilson, Christopher Todd</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTA Salina man was taken into custody after a domestic violence incident at the Budget Host Inn early Saturday. Salina Police Department officers responded to reports of an altercation at the hotel, located at 222 E. Diamond Dr.When SPD officers arrived on the scene at 2:45 a.m. they spoke with a 37-year-old woman who reported that Christopher Wilson, 32, assaulted her while she was visiting him at the inn.&nbsp;"She indicated that they got into an argument over some laundry. The argument progressed," said Salina Police Captain James Feldman. "He grabbed her from behind by the neck and restricted her breathing. She did not lose consciousness. She then fell to the ground, where he forcefully pulled her up into a seated position."The victim attempted to crawl away, outside Wilson's reach when he then grabbed her and dragged her back into the room and began punching her repeatedly in the face, according to Feldman.&nbsp;"She attempted to get away from the subject and ended up biting him to get him to release," Feldman said. "He then bit her, and she stated that he then grabbed a knife, slapped her."The victim reported that Wilson struck her with a knife, causing minor injuries to her leg and buttocks, before she managed to flee the room and contact a friend outside, who then notified the police.Wilson was located by officers at the hotel the following day at around 5 p.m. Feldman said before his alleged attack against the woman,&nbsp; Wilson was living in one of the rooms at the inn.&nbsp;Wilson was booked into the Saline County Jail on charges of aggravated kidnapping, aggravated battery, aggravated domestic battery, domestic battery, and violation of a protection order.

Salina man arrested after alleged violent domestic incident at local inn

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

It might feel early to be thinking about next spring, but believe it or not, now is a good time to boost the spring wow factor of your landscape by planting hardy bulbs.&nbsp; Not only do these bulbs add color to our landscapes, but many of them provide pollinators with resources like nectar or pollen at a time when few other plants are blooming.

Generally, it is recommended to plant hardy bulbs like tulip, allium, crocus, and daffodils in October through early November to give them enough time to root before winter.&nbsp; As long as the soil temperatures are above 40 degrees F, the bulbs will continue root development during the fall. One easy way you can find out how warm the soil temperature is across various parts of the state is to visit our weather data library at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://mesonet.k-state.edu/">http://mesonet.k-state.edu/</a>

Garden centers often carry a selection of hardy bulbs in the fall and bulbs are also easy to mail order.&nbsp;&nbsp; When shopping, be sure to select large, firm bulbs that have not begun to sprout.&nbsp; Big bulbs are always better and the difference in price almost always pays off with much better performance.

If you are selecting bulbs for pollinators, it is best to choose unhybridized species to ensure that the flower retains its pollen and nectar.&nbsp; For example, retailers may offer a crocus species mix which would be preferred over the hybrids.&nbsp; Crocus, muscari, species-variety tulips and wild-type daffodils such as Narcissus poeticus or Narcissus jonquilla are examples of bulbs that are well-loved by bees.

Plant bulbs in a site that receives plenty of sunshine as 5-6 hours of sunlight are needed for the best flowering.&nbsp; Bulbs can adapt to a wide range of soil types, but they do not tolerate poorly drained soil.&nbsp; This means it is usually necessary to prepare the planting bed by adding organic matter such as peat moss, well-rotted manure, or compost and mix into the soil.&nbsp; Spread several inches of organic matter over the soil surface and till or spade it in.

Adequate fertility is also essential. It is best to rely on a soil test to determine what nutrients are needed. Garden soils that have been fertilized regularly in the past usually have high levels of phosphorus and potassium.&nbsp; In such cases, it is best to use a fertilizer relatively high in nitrogen such as a 29-5-4, 27-3-3, or something similar. Apply these fertilizers at the rate of 1/2 pound (1 cup) per 100 square feet before planting.

The size and species of the bulb determines how deep to plant. In general, the depth to the bottom of the planting hole should be about 2 to 3 times the diameter of the bulb, but check the planting instructions specific to each particular flower.&nbsp; Planting too shallow may result in damage to the bulb caused by soil (frost) heaving during the winter.&nbsp; Water the bulbs after planting and monitor the soil for moisture if the fall/winter is dry but do not overwater as bulb rotting may result.

Fall is also a good time to divide or move existing spring flowering bulbs. The clump should be dug, sorted by size and replanted at the same depth and in properly prepared soil.&nbsp; Sorting by size allows the smaller bulbs to compete better and have more space to develop. Flower size will also be about the same for a more uniform look. In many cases very small bulbs are best discarded as they may never reach flowering size.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823329994.jpeg" alt="Jason Graves" />
 <figcaption>Jason Graves</figcaption>
 </figure>By JASON GRAVES K-State Research and Extension Central District Horticulturist It might feel early to be thinking about next spring, but believe it or not, now is a good time to boost the spring wow factor of your landscape by planting hardy bulbs.&nbsp; Not only do these bulbs add color to our landscapes, but many of them provide pollinators with resources like nectar or pollen at a time when few other plants are blooming.Generally, it is recommended to plant hardy bulbs like tulip, allium, crocus, and daffodils in October through early November to give them enough time to root before winter.&nbsp; As long as the soil temperatures are above 40 degrees F, the bulbs will continue root development during the fall. One easy way you can find out how warm the soil temperature is across various parts of the state is to visit our weather data library at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://mesonet.k-state.edu/">http://mesonet.k-state.edu/</a>Selecting bulbs&nbsp;&nbsp;Garden centers often carry a selection of hardy bulbs in the fall and bulbs are also easy to mail order.&nbsp;&nbsp; When shopping, be sure to select large, firm bulbs that have not begun to sprout.&nbsp; Big bulbs are always better and the difference in price almost always pays off with much better performance.If you are selecting bulbs for pollinators, it is best to choose unhybridized species to ensure that the flower retains its pollen and nectar.&nbsp; For example, retailers may offer a crocus species mix which would be preferred over the hybrids.&nbsp; Crocus, muscari, species-variety tulips and wild-type daffodils such as Narcissus poeticus or Narcissus jonquilla are examples of bulbs that are well-loved by bees.Planting bulbsPlant bulbs in a site that receives plenty of sunshine as 5-6 hours of sunlight are needed for the best flowering.&nbsp; Bulbs can adapt to a wide range of soil types, but they do not tolerate poorly drained soil.&nbsp; This means it is usually necessary to prepare the planting bed by adding organic matter such as peat moss, well-rotted manure, or compost and mix into the soil.&nbsp; Spread several inches of organic matter over the soil surface and till or spade it in.Adequate fertility is also essential. It is best to rely on a soil test to determine what nutrients are needed. Garden soils that have been fertilized regularly in the past usually have high levels of phosphorus and potassium.&nbsp; In such cases, it is best to use a fertilizer relatively high in nitrogen such as a 29-5-4, 27-3-3, or something similar. Apply these fertilizers at the rate of 1/2 pound (1 cup) per 100 square feet before planting.The size and species of the bulb determines how deep to plant. In general, the depth to the bottom of the planting hole should be about 2 to 3 times the diameter of the bulb, but check the planting instructions specific to each particular flower.&nbsp; Planting too shallow may result in damage to the bulb caused by soil (frost) heaving during the winter.&nbsp; Water the bulbs after planting and monitor the soil for moisture if the fall/winter is dry but do not overwater as bulb rotting may result.Divide existing bulbsFall is also a good time to divide or move existing spring flowering bulbs. The clump should be dug, sorted by size and replanted at the same depth and in properly prepared soil.&nbsp; Sorting by size allows the smaller bulbs to compete better and have more space to develop. Flower size will also be about the same for a more uniform look. In many cases very small bulbs are best discarded as they may never reach flowering size.

GRAVES: Spring bulbs boost color, pollinator resources

This week marks "National Friends of the Library Week," and the Salina Public Library is recognizing the Friends of the Salina Public Library for their ongoing support.

The Friends organization plays a crucial role in funding various library programs and events, including providing scholarships for teen volunteers and hosting popular book sales.

"The Friends of the Salina Public Library is a wonderful organization that generously helps the library in various ways," said Salina Public Library Director Melanie Hedgespeth. "They have graciously provided funding for our Summer at the Library kickoff party, reading prizes and more. We are truly grateful for their support which allows the library to enhance services for our community."

The Friends of the Public Library will host its Fall Book Sale this weekend, with a special preview for Friends members on Friday, Oct. 25 at 3:30 p.m. The sale will be open to the public on Saturday and Sunday.

Sunday, Oct. 27 from Noon to 3 p.m.&nbsp;

For more information or to learn how to support the Friends, visit <a href="https://salinapubliclibrary.org/friends">salinapubliclibrary.org/friends</a>. See the Facebook event for details <a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/Rs4XrrRwpso6xpAD/">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729534129791.jpeg" alt="The Friends of the Salina Public Library organization plays a crucial role in funding various library programs and events, including providing scholarships for teen volunteers and hosting popular book sales. Image Courtesy of the Salina Public Library" />
 <figcaption>The Friends of the Salina Public Library organization plays a crucial role in funding various library programs and events, including providing scholarships for teen volunteers and hosting popular book sales. Image Courtesy of the Salina Public Library</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThis week marks "National Friends of the Library Week," and the Salina Public Library is recognizing the Friends of the Salina Public Library for their ongoing support.The Friends organization plays a crucial role in funding various library programs and events, including providing scholarships for teen volunteers and hosting popular book sales. "The Friends of the Salina Public Library is a wonderful organization that generously helps the library in various ways," said Salina Public Library Director Melanie Hedgespeth. "They have graciously provided funding for our Summer at the Library kickoff party, reading prizes and more. We are truly grateful for their support which allows the library to enhance services for our community."The Friends of the Public Library will host its Fall Book Sale this weekend, with a special preview for Friends members on Friday, Oct. 25 at 3:30 p.m. The sale will be open to the public on Saturday and Sunday.Saturday, Oct. 26 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.Sunday, Oct. 27 from Noon to 3 p.m.&nbsp; For more information or to learn how to support the Friends, visit <a href="https://salinapubliclibrary.org/friends">salinapubliclibrary.org/friends</a>. See the Facebook event for details <a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/Rs4XrrRwpso6xpAD/">here</a>.

SPL celebrates 'National Friends of the Library Week,' Fall Book Sale this weekend

Today Showers and thunderstorms before 4 p.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5 p.m. High near 77.&nbsp; South wind 9 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph. The chance of precipitation is 90%.

Tonight Showers and thunderstorms are likely before 10 p.m, then a slight chance of showers between 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming clear, with a low around 52. South wind 10 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. The chance of precipitation is 60%.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 85. Southwest wind 7 to 14 mph becoming west northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.

Tuesday Night Clear, with a low around 50. Northwest wind around 6 mph becoming north northeast after midnight.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 76. East northeast wind 6 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 49.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 84.

Thursday Night Clear, with a low around 48.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 73.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 43.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729529471653.png" alt="NWS" />
 <figcaption>NWS</figcaption>
 </figure>Today Showers and thunderstorms before 4 p.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5 p.m. High near 77.&nbsp; South wind 9 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph. The chance of precipitation is 90%.Tonight Showers and thunderstorms are likely before 10 p.m, then a slight chance of showers between 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming clear, with a low around 52. South wind 10 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. The chance of precipitation is 60%.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 85. Southwest wind 7 to 14 mph becoming west northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.Tuesday Night Clear, with a low around 50. Northwest wind around 6 mph becoming north northeast after midnight.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 76. East northeast wind 6 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 49.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 84.Thursday Night Clear, with a low around 48.Friday Sunny, with a high near 73.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 43.

NWS weekly weather forecast, possible rain today

A 62-year-old man was found unresponsive outside Immanuel Lutheran Church on South Seventh Street in Salina, Kansas, on October 20.

 According to Salina Police Department Cpt. James Feldman, the deceased man, identified as an unhoused person, was discovered by a 45-year-old woman attending church services that morning.

"Initially, she believed the man was sleeping, but after noticing he was unresponsive, she called 911," Feldman said.

The 911 call was placed at 10:43 a.m.&nbsp;

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3e18ce05-a2c7-4175-91a2-fb92623a7075">🎥Candidates answer questions at Salina LWV 2024 General Election Forum</a>

The body was examined by the Saline County Coroner, Dr. David Dupy, who determined that no foul play was involved and that the death appeared to be of natural causes.

Feldman said the coroner will make the final decision regarding whether an autopsy will be conducted. The official death certificate has not been signed yet by Dr. Dupy.&nbsp;

"Whenever we get a dead body, we treat everyone like a homicide, until we prove otherwise. That's how we're trained because you never know," Feldman said.

Ben Pruitt, 47, of Salina, said when he saw the 62-year-old deceased man's body located near Immanuel Lutheran, he was not fully covered.

"I'm expecting to see crime scene tape and I don't see anything," Pruitt said. "I look to my right and there's a body with a white sheet over his face and chest."

Pruitt said he saw the deceased man at 11:45 a.m. on Sunday. He said the man was on the ground wearing dark-colored jeans, and black and gray tennis shoes and showed signs of rigor mortis.&nbsp;

Pruitt was in the area after someone he knew sent him a message about there being a possibly deceased unhoused person located near the church.&nbsp;

Feldman said SPD officers did remove the blanket covering the man temporarily to take photos of the scene. Feldman said crime scene tape was not used because officers were able to "easily control the scene."

SPD did not release any additional information regarding the man’s identity or the exact circumstances leading to his death.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574355645622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTA 62-year-old man was found unresponsive outside Immanuel Lutheran Church on South Seventh Street in Salina, Kansas, on October 20. According to Salina Police Department Cpt. James Feldman, the deceased man, identified as an unhoused person, was discovered by a 45-year-old woman attending church services that morning."Initially, she believed the man was sleeping, but after noticing he was unresponsive, she called 911," Feldman said.The 911 call was placed at 10:43 a.m.&nbsp;READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3e18ce05-a2c7-4175-91a2-fb92623a7075">🎥Candidates answer questions at Salina LWV 2024 General Election Forum</a>The body was examined by the Saline County Coroner, Dr. David Dupy, who determined that no foul play was involved and that the death appeared to be of natural causes.Feldman said the coroner will make the final decision regarding whether an autopsy will be conducted. The official death certificate has not been signed yet by Dr. Dupy.&nbsp;"Whenever we get a dead body, we treat everyone like a homicide, until we prove otherwise. That's how we're trained because you never know," Feldman said.Ben Pruitt, 47, of Salina, said when he saw the 62-year-old deceased man's body located near Immanuel Lutheran, he was not fully covered."I'm expecting to see crime scene tape and I don't see anything," Pruitt said. "I look to my right and there's a body with a white sheet over his face and chest."Pruitt said he saw the deceased man at 11:45 a.m. on Sunday. He said the man was on the ground wearing dark-colored jeans, and black and gray tennis shoes and showed signs of rigor mortis.&nbsp;Pruitt was in the area after someone he knew sent him a message about there being a possibly deceased unhoused person located near the church.&nbsp;Feldman said SPD officers did remove the blanket covering the man temporarily to take photos of the scene. Feldman said crime scene tape was not used because officers were able to "easily control the scene."SPD did not release any additional information regarding the man’s identity or the exact circumstances leading to his death.

UPDATED SPD: Coroner says man found unresponsive outside Salina church died of natural causes

OCCK Transportation is excited to announce the launch of its new OnDemand Pilot Program, starting November 4, 2024, within the city limits of Salina, Kansas. This innovative transportation option offers affordable, on-demand rides for just $5, making it easier than ever for residents to access safe, reliable transportation.

OCCK Transportation OnDemand is a flexible, app-based service designed to meet the needs of the community. With this service, riders can book a ride at their convenience using the&nbsp;TransLoc app, which allows users to schedule, track, and manage their trips in real time. Riders without smartphone access can still schedule trips by calling OCCK Transportation’s customer service line at 785.826.1583.

“We are thrilled to bring this new service to Salina,” said Trell Grinter, Director of of OCCK Transportation. “OCCK Transportation OnDemand provides a more personalized and convenient transit option that complements our existing services, offering more flexibility for passengers to get where they need to go.”

This $5 ride service will be available throughout the Salina city limits and will operate Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The OnDemand Pilot Program is part of OCCK’s ongoing efforts to enhance mobility and improve transportation accessibility across the region.

Download the TransLoc app&nbsp;from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Create an account and select “OCCK Transportation OnDemand”

Book your ride by entering your pickup location, destination, and preferred time

For those new to using OCCK Transportation OnDemand, information will be available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.salinacitygo.com/">www.salinacitygo.com</a>.

OCCK, Inc. provides services in north central Kansas to anyone with any type of long or short-term disability, starting as early as birth and following people through their whole lives.&nbsp; OCCK provides an array of supports for success at home and in the community, including independent living skills and supports, employment and career training, Alzheimer’s supports, autism services, assistive technology, children’s services, transportation, specialized therapies, and home health care.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609819801425.png" alt="OCCK transportation logo thumbnail.png" />
 <figcaption>OCCK transportation logo thumbnail.png</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedOCCK Transportation is excited to announce the launch of its new OnDemand Pilot Program, starting November 4, 2024, within the city limits of Salina, Kansas. This innovative transportation option offers affordable, on-demand rides for just $5, making it easier than ever for residents to access safe, reliable transportation.OCCK Transportation OnDemand is a flexible, app-based service designed to meet the needs of the community. With this service, riders can book a ride at their convenience using the&nbsp;TransLoc app, which allows users to schedule, track, and manage their trips in real time. Riders without smartphone access can still schedule trips by calling OCCK Transportation’s customer service line at 785.826.1583.“We are thrilled to bring this new service to Salina,” said Trell Grinter, Director of of OCCK Transportation. “OCCK Transportation OnDemand provides a more personalized and convenient transit option that complements our existing services, offering more flexibility for passengers to get where they need to go.”This $5 ride service will be available throughout the Salina city limits and will operate Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The OnDemand Pilot Program is part of OCCK’s ongoing efforts to enhance mobility and improve transportation accessibility across the region.How to Schedule a Ride:Download the TransLoc app&nbsp;from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Create an account and select “OCCK Transportation OnDemand”Book your ride by entering your pickup location, destination, and preferred time Pay $5 per ride through the app.For those new to using OCCK Transportation OnDemand, information will be available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.salinacitygo.com/">www.salinacitygo.com</a>.OCCK, Inc. provides services in north central Kansas to anyone with any type of long or short-term disability, starting as early as birth and following people through their whole lives.&nbsp; OCCK provides an array of supports for success at home and in the community, including independent living skills and supports, employment and career training, Alzheimer’s supports, autism services, assistive technology, children’s services, transportation, specialized therapies, and home health care.OCCK is committed to providing transportation services to the general public, seniors, and persons with disabilities, through a variety of programs, including a fixed route service in Salina, CityGo, a regional paratransit service that serves fourteen counties, non emergency medical transportation for people with Medicaid, as well as non emergency medical transportation for clients of Salina Regional Health Center, a regional fixed route service, 81 Connection, KANcycle – the regional bike sharing program, GoAbilene public transportation, GoConcordia public transportation, KanConnect regional fixed route, and the newest program, OCCK Transportation OnDemand.

OCCK Transportation bringing OnDemand Pilot program to Salina

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Hall, Mikayla Rae

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Poss of marijuana and Speeding; maximum limits

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Wilson, Christopher Todd

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Agg battery; Knowingly use deadly weapon, Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke, Aggravated kidnapping, Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm and Viol protection order; Pre-trial order

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Ferguson, Cole Allen

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal trespass; Property as posted per KSA 32-1013

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/2024/10/1729514517193.png" alt="Hall, Mikayla Rae" />
 <figcaption>Hall, Mikayla Rae</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Hall, Mikayla RaeREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Poss of marijuana and Speeding; maximum limits<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729514567249.png" alt="Wilson, Christopher Todd" />
 <figcaption>Wilson, Christopher Todd</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Wilson, Christopher ToddREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Agg battery; Knowingly use deadly weapon, Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke, Aggravated kidnapping, Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm and Viol protection order; Pre-trial order<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729514636962.png" alt=" Ferguson, Cole Allen" />
 <figcaption> Ferguson, Cole Allen</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Ferguson, Cole AllenREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal trespass; Property as posted per KSA 32-1013