By GARY DEMUTH Salina Symphony

The holiday classic “The Nutcracker” has become a family tradition for many Salina residents.

This year’s Salina Symphony and Ballet Salina collaboration will involve more than 80 dancers from multiple studios in the region.

“Some of the dancers have participated in several productions of ‘The Nutcracker,’” said Tamara Howe, owner and operator of Ballet Salina, a division of Tamara Howe School of Dance. “Once they have performed one role, they’re excited to see what the next role up can be. Children grow up with it, and you see them positively influenced by the older dancers.”

The Salina Symphony and Ballet Salina will present two performances of “The Nutcracker”: Sat., Dec. 14, at 7 p.m. and Sun., Dec. 15, at 4 p.m. at the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts, 151 S. Santa Fe.

Participants in this year’s production include dancers from Salina’s Tamara Howe School of Dance, Theatre Salina’s Center for Theatre Arts, and Della’s Dance Studio as well as ArtisTree (Hutchinson), Dancing Bird Studio (Minneapolis), and Activated Arts (Junction City).

The production also will feature select members from the Salina Symphony Youth Choir performing the “Snow Chorus”. Before each show, vocal music students from Kansas Wesleyan University will sing Christmas carols in the Stiefel Theatre lobby.

The student dancers have been rehearsing for the production every Saturday morning since the beginning of the school year, said Howe, who is choreographing the ballet with Ballet Salina artistic director Mara Klenda, based on original choreography created by Marius Petipa.

“Every time we present it, we change it a little bit to keep it fresh and exciting,” Howe said.

This is the second Salina production of “The Nutcracker” to be conducted by Salina Symphony music director Yaniv Segal, who said the ballet has “become synonymous with the holiday season” because of the holiday setting, lavish costumes and most importantly, the timeless music.

“Tchaikovsky has a gift for melody, and this particular score is remarkable, moving the story along and capturing characters in an amazing way,” he said. “The story is also fun and something everyone can understand.”

As a conductor, Segal said he has to keep a close eye on the dancers and how they move during each performance.

“I need to pay attention to whether they’re comfortable and able to move with grace,” he said. “I shouldn’t even be looking at the orchestra.”

Performing “The Nutcracker” with a live symphony orchestra is “how the show should be done,” Segal said.

“The dancers are so happy that we’re doing it with live music,” he said. “This is the kind of holiday show that brings people together. Concerts like this help create special memories.”

Guest artists for this year’s production will be Lucas Segovia, who will dance the role of the Cavalier, and Molly Groeschl, who dances the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Lucas is a former principal with the Joffrey Ballet and Molly performed principal roles with the Madison Ballet.

Professional dancers are contracted to portray the Cavalier and Sugar Plum Fairy because of the physical and technical challenges of the roles, Howe said.

This year will feature two “beautiful” performers, she said, who also happen to be “wonderful teachers.”

“Kids will have an opportunity to take a master class from them during their stay,” she said.

Howe said it’s been a thrill to watch the show come together during the last several months.

“It’s fun to see everyone’s hard work pay off,” she said. “It’ll be great for the community to see such a collaborative show, to see so many people on stage, so many faces of the community.”

“The Nutcracker” tells the story of Clara, a young girl who receives a nutcracker soldier as a Christmas present during a festive holiday gathering. When she falls asleep later in the evening, she enters a dream world where toys come to life and wage battle against an army of mice, headed by the fearsome Mouse King.

Clara and her nutcracker, who has been transformed into a prince, travel into the Land of Sweets, ruled by the Sugar Plum Fairy, before she awakens and finds it has all been a dream.

“The Nutcracker” ballet was inspired by the book “The Story of the Nutcracker” by French author Alexandre Dumas, which itself was an adaptation of the dark fairy tale “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King,” written in 1816 by E.T.A. Hoffman.

The original ballet adaptation was created by Marius Petipa and Len Ivanov, with original music by the great Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. It was first performed in St. Petersburg, Russia, in 1892, and since its premiere has become a perennial holiday classic staged in theaters and concert halls throughout the world.

Tickets are selling fast for this year’s production of “The Nutcracker,” which is being sponsored by Bennington State Bank, JRI Hospitality and Salina Regional Health Center.

Tickets for each performance are $42 and $45 for adults and $25 for children and students. This concert is recommended for children ages 3 and above.

Adult tickets may be purchased at the Stiefel Theatre box office, by calling (785) 827-1998 or online at www.salinasymphony.org. Student tickets must be purchased through the Stiefel Theatre box office.

Attending “The Nutcracker,” Howe said, is the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit.

“By the time you leave, you’ll be ready for Christmas,” she said.

Tickets going fast — Salina Symphony and Ballet Salina presents, 'The Nutcracker' 

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our news tip email address. Have a breaking news story, a community event, or a feel-good story that deserves to be shared? 

Submit your news tips via email to <a href="http://newstips@salinapost.com">newstips@salinapost.com</a>

Whether you're a Salina local, a native Kansan, or have moved out of state, we want to hear from you. Your contributions help us keep our community informed and engaged. 

So, if you have a story to tell or a photo of breaking news we should know about, send it to newstips@salinapost.com.

Salina Post news tip email address

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

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

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

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

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

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📨 Sign up today for Salina Post's Noon News Update!

Salina Post is thrilled to announce an exciting update - we are now accepting letters to the editor from our readers. We believe that our community's voices deserve to be heard, and providing a platform for open dialogue and constructive discussions is essential to a strong free press.&nbsp;

With the new letters to the editor offering, we aim to create a space where readers can express their thoughts, concerns, and ideas on a wide range of local topics that impact their daily lives.&nbsp;

Submitting a letter to the editor is simple. Just email your letter to <a href="mailto:admin@salinapost.com">admin@salinapost.com</a>

Ensure that your letter is concise and respectful. We value thoughtful and constructive discussions, so please make sure to present your arguments in a clear and coherent manner.

While we appreciate and encourage diverse perspectives, we also have certain guidelines in place. Letters should be free from hate speech, name-calling or any form of discrimination. We believe in promoting a respectful and inclusive environment for all readers.

Our editorial team will review all submissions and select letters that align with our guidelines and contribute positively to the conversation. We may edit letters for clarity, grammar, and length, but we will strive to maintain the essence of your message.

We are excited about this new opportunity to amplify your voice and encourage you to take advantage of this platform.

So, whether you have a burning issue or an important message to share, we invite you to submit a letter to the editor. Let's come together, learn from each other, and build a stronger community through the power of words.

All letters must include the author's name. No anonymous letters to the editor will be published, but if you have a news tip or an issue you would like us to know about still reach out via email at newstips@salinapost.com

<a href="https://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/advocacy/direct-action/letters-to-editor/main">Information Courtesy University of Kansas Community Toolbox</a>

You feel strongly about an issue, and you want to let people know what you think. You believe you can even influence people to take some action if you speak your mind. But, you want to reach an audience larger than just your friends or your group membership. Letters to the editor can be an effective way to get the word out.

A letter to the editor is a written way of talking to a newspaper, magazine, or other regularly printed publication. Letters to the editor are generally found in the first section of the newspaper, or towards the beginning of a magazine, or in the editorial page. They can take a position for or against an issue, or simply inform, or both. They can convince readers by using emotions, or facts, or emotions and facts combined. 

Letters to the editor are usually short and tight, rarely longer than 300 words.

Using a few carefully placed letters, you can generate plenty of community discussion. You can also keep an issue going by preventing it from disappearing from the public eye. You can stimulate the interest of the news media and create more coverage for the matters you're working on. You can also send a "good news" letter to bring recognition to people who deserve it or acknowledge the success of an effort.

Salina Post accepting letters to the editor

Looking for a new podcast to keep you informed and connected within your local community? Look no further than Eagle Media's latest podcast, "King in the Community."&nbsp;

Join Eagle Media Salina News Director Nate King as he talks with local and regional government officials, first responders, non-profit leaders and unique individuals with fascinating stories from north central Kansas and beyond. Learn about how organizations in your neighborhood leverage their partnerships to create a more interconnected community.

Available on all your favorite platforms, including&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/king-in-the-community/id1687185014">Apple podcasts,</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://kinginthecommunity.podbean.com/">Podbean</a>,<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1ZeCj4TK3kaOZEvgQaDlio">&nbsp;Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c78f2e2e-c714-4aaf-ad4c-4864a4038889">Amazon Audible</a>, TuneIn + Alexa,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/king-in-the-community-5324914">Podchaser,</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.boomplaymusic.com/podcasts/62430">Boomplay</a>.&nbsp;

No matter what streaming service you use, we've got you covered with engaging discussions and insightful interviews that will help you understand the issues that matter most to you.&nbsp; So why wait? Tune in to the "King in the Community" podcast today and discover a new way to stay connected.

For a full list of episodes<a href="https://kinginthecommunity.podbean.com/page/2/">&nbsp;click here</a>. Thanks for listening!

🎙The latest from 'King in the Community' with Nate King

The Salina League of Women Voters held its 2024 General Election Forum on Oct. 20 at 1:30 in the Watson Room at the Stiefel Theatre in Salina. 

Click the link above to watch the candidates answer questions from the media and the public. Candidates present at the forum included Senate District 24-John Baker, House District 69-Lori Blake, and Clarke Sanders; Saline County Commission District 2-Annie Grevas and Kathleen Malone Crouch.

Noticeably absent from the forum was State Senator J.R. Claeys, whose empty chair and name card can be seen on the far left of the table of candidates.&nbsp;

Check Salina Post for an article about the candidate's responses on Tuesday, Oct. 22.

2024 League of Women Voters General Election Candidate Forum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

KHP: Extra caution needed on Kansas roads during harvest

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CoCoRaHS 24-hour rain totals

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saline County to host broadband community forums this week

A Salina man faces multiple charges following a disturbance at a residence in the 200 block of North Penn late Sunday evening, according to Salina Police Capt. James Feldman.

Officers were dispatched to the home around 10 p.m. on Dec. 1, after receiving reports of a conflict involving a man identified as Derek Lee Smith, 38.

According to the residents—a 33-year-old man and woman—Smith had been speaking with the female resident on the phone when the male resident intervened, telling Smith not to communicate with her. The two men agreed to fight, during which Smith allegedly threatened to bring a gun and put it to the male’s head.

Smith reportedly arrived at the residence, and when he appeared to reach for his waistband, the male resident punched him, fearing Smith was reaching for a weapon. Officers arrived shortly after and took Smith into custody on a charge of criminal threat.

Smith was transported to the hospital to be medically cleared before being booked into the Saline County Jail. While at the hospital, he allegedly urinated on the floor, leading to an additional charge of disorderly conduct.

Salina man arrested after disturbance, charged with criminal threat, disorderly conduct

Today marks Giving Tuesday, a global movement dedicated to inspiring generosity and collective action in communities worldwide. Since its creation in 2012, Giving Tuesday has grown into a powerful force for good, encouraging millions to give back through acts of kindness, donations, volunteerism, and advocacy.

Last year, an estimated $3.1 billion was donated in the U.S. alone during the 24-hour event, demonstrating the growing impact of this day. Beyond financial contributions, people worldwide participate in grassroots campaigns, youth-led initiatives, and community actions to create positive change.

With official campaigns in over 80 countries, Giving Tuesday reminds us that everyone has something to give, and every act of generosity counts. Whether through time, skills, or resources, today is an opportunity to join a global community dedicated to making a difference.

Local organizations like <a href="https://capsofsalina.org/support/">C.A.P.S.,</a> <a href="https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E356665&amp;id=3">The Salina Art Center</a>, <a href="https://www.bbbssalina.org/">Big Brothers Big</a> Sisters, <a href="http://dvack.org/">DVACK</a>, Ashby House, Salina Grace and many other non-profits participate in this worldwide campaign.

For more information on how to get involved, visit <a href="https://www.givingtuesday.org">GivingTuesday.org</a>.

Today is Giving Tuesday: Give back and support a local cause

A late-night motorcycle chase through Salina on Wednesday ended with the arrest of a 32-year-old man on multiple charges, including possession of methamphetamine, according to Salina Police Capt. James Feldman.

The chase began around 11:45 p.m. on Nov. 27 when an officer observed a black motorcycle accelerating rapidly in the 1300 block of Osage. The motorcycle was clocked at 50 mph in a 30 mph zone. When the officer attempted a traffic stop, the motorcyclist refused to pull over and fled the scene.

The chase wound through several streets, with the motorcycle turning onto Pawnee, then east onto Kiowa, south onto Osage, west onto Cloud Circle, and west on Cloud to the 1400 block of West Cloud. The driver abandoned the motorcycle and fled on foot but was apprehended by SPD officers in the 1400 block of Winona after a brief pursuit.

The driver was identified as Mikhail Wylie of Salina. Feldman said officers also recovered methamphetamine in Wylie’s possession.

Wylie faces a series of charges, including felony flee and elude, reckless driving, felony interference, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, no Kansas drug tax stamp, driving without a valid license, and multiple traffic infractions.

Salina man arrested after SPD involved motorcycle pursuit

Red Fern Booksellers will host Kansas Poet Laureate Traci Brimhall for a book signing on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 1 to 3 p.m. at 106 S. Santa Fe Ave., Salina.

Brimhall, a professor of creative writing and narrative medicine at Kansas State University, will sign copies of her latest poetry collection, Love Prodigal. Published in November by Copper Canyon Press, the collection explores themes of resilience and embracing second chances.

In addition to her work as a poet laureate, Brimhall is the author of five poetry collections, and her work has appeared in The New Yorker, The New Republic, The Nation, Poetry, and The New York Times Magazine. Her accolades include National Endowment for the Arts and National Parks Service fellowships. She has also studied Amelia Earhart’s lost poem drafts through a unique fellowship from Purdue Library.

Kansas Poet Laureate Traci Brimhall to hold book signing at Red Fern Booksellers

Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) personnel assisted 893 motorists over the holiday reporting period

The reporting period for the holiday ran from 6 p.m. on Wednesday, November 27, through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, December 1, 2024.

The Kansas Highway Patrol worked one fatal non-DUI-related crash involving one non-DUI-related fatality over the holiday reporting period. The fatal crash occurred in Nemaha County. Preliminary crash log information can be found here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.gov/khp-crashlogs/search.do">https://www.kansas.gov/khp-crashlogs/search.do</a>.

Information in the table is compared to the data from both 2022 and 2023.

KHP Thanksgiving Holiday Activity Report

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

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation

Saline County Jail Bookings, Dec. 3

<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/professional-education/">Kansas State University Salina's professional education and outreach</a>&nbsp;is launching a technical writing program for those looking to advance their careers and professional knowledge.

Technical writing courses equip learners with the comprehensive skills to convey complex information clearly and concisely. The program features six 4-week modules, most of which are asynchronous. The topics include Simplified Technical English, Standard Technical English, fundamentals of technical writing, advanced technical writing, document design, technical editing and writing for oral communication.

The technical writing program is designed for participants to gain or perfect a skillset that will help them excel in a high-demand field.

Participants in the program must first complete either the Simplified Technical English course or the Standard Technical English course. They will be able to choose the order and pace in which they take the rest of the modules.

Instructing the courses for K-State Salina are Rick Cordes and Jessica Hylton, both of whom have extensive writing experience in industry. Cordes is an experienced manager of product training at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.l3harris.com/">L3Harris</a>, an American technology company; while Hylton holds a doctorate in creative writing from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and is a published author. Hylton also instructs writing and English classes at K-State Salina.

"Technical writers are an integral part of a product's success," said Lisa Shappee, professor and director for the Center of Academic and Learning Innovation at K-State Salina. "The technical writing courses will help learners master essential writing techniques and build a pathway to an in-demand career. Offered through K-State Salina's professional education and outreach, we are committed to offering professional education and training that extend beyond the campus's academic offerings to upskill the residents of our state and region."

Registration for the technical writing courses is now open. 

Learn more and register at the K-State Salina&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/professional-education/technical-writing/">technical writing website</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

K-State Salina creates courses in technical writing to advance the skills of writers

Human remains discovered in Saline County in 2021 have been identified as Kenneth Frances Reitcheck, a man reported missing in November 2019, the Saline County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Monday.

On April 20, 2021, a human skull and a small bone were found near a wooded creek on agricultural property in southwest Salina. Law enforcement also discovered an old tent and debris from a makeshift campsite in the area. Despite an extensive search, including the use of K9 units, no additional evidence was recovered at the time to assist in identifying the remains.

Initial examinations, including those conducted by the Wichita State Anthropology Department, provided some details regarding the estimated height and age of the individual but could not confirm an identity.

In the summer of 2024, Saline County investigators reached out to Othram Labs, which specializes in advanced DNA testing. On Dec. 2, investigators were notified that DNA analysis confirmed the remains belonged to Kenneth Reitcheck, who was 69 years old when he disappeared.

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

Human remains in Saline County identified as missing person

By NATE KING Salina Post

With the Mayor's Christmas Tree now illuminating downtown Salina and local businesses bustling with holiday shoppers, one essential Christmas symbol remains: selecting the perfect Christmas tree. At BEL. Tree Farm in Saline County, Aaron and Michelle Peck offer more than just trees—they create a holiday experience that families from Kansas and beyond return to year after year.

Located just east of Salina at 401 South Holmes Road, BEL Tree Farm is outside the city's hustle and bustle, providing visitors of all ages with a classic country Christmas experience.

Established in 1965 by three local educators—Birch, Eck, and Lewis—the farm's name, "BEL," honors their surnames. In 2015, Aaron and Michelle Peck acquired the farm to preserve its legacy. Under their stewardship, BEL Tree Farm continues to offer a festive experience featuring Scotch and Austrian pines, a gift shop and family-friendly activities.

When Aaron initially proposed purchasing BEL Tree Farm, his wife, Michelle, was taken aback.

"Well, I thought it was crazy. I did not grow up on a tree farm, but Aaron grew up here in Salina, and he worked for BEL Tree Farm when he was in high school and college and got to be really close with the owners," Michelle Peck said. "He said, 'We have this opportunity to buy a Christmas tree farm,' and luckily, we had been taking our kids since they were born every year to BEL tree farm, so we knew it was part of our family tradition and a really special to Aaron."

Aaron Peck often wonders why they purchased BEL Tree Farm, but every year, as the weather gets colder and Christmas Day draws closer, he is reminded of the importance of tradition.&nbsp;

"It's just a great tradition. It's something that's fun for our community, and I have always enjoyed working there. I wanted to be able to continue that tradition on for other families in the community and surrounding areas," Aaron Peck said.&nbsp;

BEL Tree Farm isn’t just about picking the perfect Christmas tree. Families visiting the farm from Kansas and beyond are treated to complimentary hot apple cider and popcorn, a gift shop featuring more than 5,000 ornaments, and a cozy 1920s potbelly stove.

"New to the farm, this was something we did a few years ago, but Aaron had this great idea that we needed to have Christmas donkeys out at the farm and some goats so there is a really fun area for kids and families to see the goats and the donkeys, like a petting zoo," Michelle Peck said.&nbsp;

Michelle Peck shared the excitement she and the team at BEL Tree Farm feel as the opening weekend, kicking off the Friday after Thanksgiving, quickly approaches.

"We'll have 30 to 40 people in line waiting for us to open the fresh tree barn, where we have trees that come from up north, Fraser Firs, which are like the Cadillac of Christmas trees and Douglas Firs and Balsam Firs," Michelle Peck said. "We have 20 or so employees dressed up in these red coveralls. I think they look like little Oompa Loompas out there; It's part of that Christmas tradition."

Horse-drawn hayback rides are scheduled for Friday and Saturday of opening weekend from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with an additional date on Saturday, December 7, also from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. BEL Tree Farm offers free admission, ensuring all families can enjoy the holiday cheer regardless of their budget.

“Our goal is to create an environment where everyone feels welcome,” Michelle Peck said. "Even if you don’t buy a tree, come out for a cup of cider and enjoy the atmosphere."

BEL Tree Farm relies on high school and college students who gain valuable work experience carrying out various tasks on the farm, from popping popcorn and working the gift shop cash register to shaking and bagging trees.

Aaron and Michelle Peck attribute the farm's success to the unwavering support of their employees, family volunteers, and the community, all of whom play a vital role in its operations.

“We’ve had many young workers over the years,” Aaron Peck said. “Some stay with us all through high school and even college. It’s always great to see them come back and share fond memories of working here.”

The farm primarily grows Scotch and Austrian pines, which are well-suited to Kansas's soil and climate. Cultivating Christmas trees is a year-round effort that requires patience, planning, and resilience, particularly in the face of Kansas’ unpredictable weather. Aaron Peck explained the growth process.

"On average, we try to plant about 1,000 seedlings a year," Aaron Peck explained. "Sometimes it's a little less, sometimes a little more, depending on the conditions and what we can manage."

The seedlings, sourced from reputable suppliers in Kansas, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Michigan, are typically two to three years old and measure about six to eight inches tall when planted. From there, it takes five to seven years under normal conditions for a tree to grow to a marketable size.

"With the drought we've had lately, that's been a challenge. But we're getting some rain, and maybe we're going to turn the corner on this cycle," Aaron Peck said.&nbsp;

Despite its roots in tradition, BEL Tree Farm has embraced modern advancements to enhance its operations and connect with more people from outside Saline County. 

While much of the farm’s charm remains unchanged since it began in the 1960s, Aaron Peck noted that incorporating new technology and leveraging social media have brought fresh opportunities to the family-run business.

"There's not a ton of change out there. We haven't changed much in terms of the tradition that families come out and enjoy. We've made different investments in equipment and technology and so social media, that's probably been a huge, probably one of the biggest changes for our business," Aaron Peck said. "Michelle's more in tune with that than I am, but tapping into that kind of a market has probably been one of the largest changes that the tree farm has taken advantage of."

The experience doesn't end with selecting a tree—it's about ensuring it lasts throughout the Christmas season. Every tree, whether locally grown or brought in from northern states, receives a fresh cut before being displayed in the farm’s fresh tree barn.

"We cut a fresh slice and place them in water to keep them healthy," explained Michelle Peck. "Our tree cutters call it 'the swamp,' but it’s a water-holding area that helps keep the trees hydrated and fresh. It makes a huge difference compared to trees that might just sit on the blacktop at big-box stores."

For the Peck family, Christmas mornings are about spending quality time with family, enjoying cherished traditions and relaxing after a busy season at the tree farm.&nbsp;

"Every Christmas morning, we’re always home with our kids," Michelle said. "After working at the tree farm all season, I’m not much of a cook, so our Christmas breakfast has been Pillsbury orange rolls for 20 years. It’s simple, but it’s ours."

Aaron has kept another family tradition alive—one that started with his own parents. 

"Every Christmas Eve, I read ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’ to our kids," Aaron said. "Even at 17 and 18, they still let me do it. I might drag them out for one more year."

Michelle and Aaron's commitment to creating family memories extends far beyond their home. At BEL Tree Farm, the Pecks have worked to build an environment where families can start their own traditions. Whether it’s warming up by the potbelly stove, picking out ornaments in the gift shop, or taking photos in the winter wonderland, visitors are invited to make the farm part of their own holiday story.

"Christmas is such a special time," Michelle said. "We’ve seen families grow with us over the years—parents, kids, and now even grandkids. That’s what makes this so meaningful."

To learn more about BEL Tree Farm, follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/@BELTreeFarm">social media</a> or check out their <a href="https://beltreefarmsalina.com/">website here</a>.&nbsp;

🎙King in the Community — Aaron and Michelle Peck, BEL Tree Farm

A Friday morning house fire in rural Saline County caused more than $100,000 in damage. The occupant escaped without injury.

Saline County Sheriff’s deputies and firefighters from Rural Fire Districts #7 and #5 were dispatched to the 4700 block of North Dorman Road around 8:44 a.m. on Nov. 29 after the homes occupant called 911 to report a fire. The home’s occupant safely evacuated before emergency crews arrived.

Investigators determined the fire started near the chimney of a wood-burning stove. Despite the quick response from firefighters, the home sustained extensive fire, smoke, and water damage, with losses estimated to exceed $100,000.

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