Eighty-seven people vied to be contestants for the Smoky Hill Museums Street Fair’s Serious Eaters Competition. Twenty-four lucky contestants and 6 alternates were selected by the participating restaurants Bravo Sliders-N-Bites, The Cozy Inn and Martinelli’s Little Italy to partake in one of three eating contests.

The contests will take place in front of the Main Stage of the Smoky Hill Museum Street Fair at 211 West Iron on September 28 at 1 pm. Up first will be the contestants chosen by Bravo Sliders-N-Bites. They will be eating cheesecake sliders. Up next will be The Cozy Inn contestants eating the famous Cozy burgers. Martinelli’s Little Italy contestants will finish off the contest with one pound of spaghetti in marinara sauce.

Winners will receive a prize package valued at $200. 

Bravo Sliders-N-Bites Contestants&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Todd “Ginger Beard” Senecal&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Marlyn “Marz” Delatorre&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

The Cozy Inn Contestants&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Preston Crawford&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Ben “Trooper Ben” Gardner&nbsp; &nbsp;

Martinelli’s Little Italy Contestants

Adam “the Atomic Attacker” Keller&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Kenzie Taylor&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Smoky Hill Museum announces contestants Street Fair eating competition

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 launches news tip email address

Delivered to your virtual porch during the noon hour every Monday through Friday — on time and free :-)

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

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

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 Radio's latest podcast, "King in the Community."&nbsp;

Join Eagle Radio news director, Nate King as he talks with local and regional government officials, first responders, non-profit leaders and unique individuals with interesting 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

Due to damages from Sunday's severe weather, the bridge and road south of Wilson, Kansas will NOT be open by Memorial Day, May 27.&nbsp;

According to the Ellsworth County Highway Department, a date has not been set for the road/bridge to reopen.&nbsp;

Plan an alternate route if you plan to travel in the area.&nbsp;

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

River bridge, road project south of Wilson closed indefinetly 

Cope Notes is a text message-based service that provides individuals with randomly timed messages that contain anything from psychology facts to exercises and journaling prompts. Every subscriber’s text sequence is unique so that no two users ever receive the same message at the same time. 

Each <a href="https://copenotes.com/">Cope Notes</a> text must first undergo a thorough review process by a panel of peer-support advocates and mental health professionals, in order to ensure that the messages will have a positive effect on the subscriber’s health. The ultimate goal of the service is to train the brain to disrupt negative thoughts and promote a more positive pattern of thinking.

"We believe in the importance of mental health. We want to ensure our residents have access to the resources they need to stay healthy and thriving," said Saline County Health Officer Jason Tiller. "In my own personal experience with Cope Notes, I have found that the right messages seem to come at exactly the right time. It was been an uplifting experience for me, and I am thrilled we get to continue this service to our residents."

In 2022, Saline County initially offered the service for free to 300 residents. Because of the overwhelming response and in an effort to provide the service to more Saline County residents, the program is being offered at a 50 percent discount, according to information from the county.

To sign up for Cope Notes, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001scLNLAEK27GI7j38iOkmbBLY7glKLN0Wy6uF_d-8TLam2TPUzrfQlc9LS5oNICbDRUIbIxFeAe9F9t_3cBzqfldl0v4T9wLfMfxV5qLVYcHiyw0WBSsZFYJWzG17ByUTXv2fd3MbRsZWmxNokDZI85TAvv_DybpQ8u3RGpTS-VoOBpVKw3mIuQf0KEWbdEz2&amp;c=e8h8gccDrdCcdY1GLzjAyWQ83iic1YREdFKlJQ0cHZXKLBBGRtWzSA==&amp;ch=qH131SvBWUOQqWkIzjrjNennoWrg5mcmyLAePutxO-lGfSWshstgHw==" target="_blank">this link&nbsp;</a>and enter code&nbsp;SACOHALF&nbsp;and your credit or debit card information.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Saline County continues to offer Cope Notes at 50-percent discount

Not seeing precipitation totals from your area after a rain or snow event? Consider becoming a CoCoRaHS volunteer.

"CoCoRaHS is an acronym for the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network. CoCoRaHS is a unique, non-profit, community-based network of volunteers of all ages and backgrounds working together to measure and map precipitation (rain, hail and snow). By using low-cost measurement tools, stressing training and education, and utilizing an interactive website, our aim is to provide the highest quality data for natural resource, education and research applications," the organization noted on its website.

After rain, hail, or snow storms, CoCoRaHS volunteers take precipitation measurements. Those totals are then recorded on the CoCoRaHS&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/ViewData/StateDailyPrecipReports.aspx?state=KS">website</a>&nbsp;(Kansas reporting).

The precipitation totals are used by various organizations and individuals, including the National Weather Service, other meteorologists, hydrologists, emergency managers, insurance adjusters, farmers and ranchers, and, of course, Salina Post.

For more information about CoCoRaHS and its March recruiting efforts or to sign up as a CoCoRaHS volunteer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/marchmadness.aspx">click here</a>.

Precipitation reporting organization seeks local, area volunteers

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;Failure to appearDriving While Suspended

Aggravated endangering a child; Reckless situation to child &lt;18

Flee or attempt to elude; reckless driving

Poss of stolen property;Value $1,500 to $25,000

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation ViolationAggravated endangering a child; Reckless situation to child &lt;18Flee or attempt to elude; reckless drivingKidnapping; Unknown circumstancePoss of stolen property;Value $1,500 to $25,000

NAME:&nbsp;Martin,Cortney WilsonREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;

Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Contempt of Court; DirectPoss of marijuana

Unlawful acts: vehicle registration violation

Harass by telecom device; Transmit obscene comment/image/text

NAME:&nbsp;Roa,Jonathan DanielREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;

Unsafe turning or stopping - Fail to Signal

Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity

Saline County Jail Bookings, Sept. 16

City of Salina On Monday, September 16, Smoky Hill, LLC of Salina will begin replacing the medians on Broadway from Duval to Republic.

Existing asphalt curbs and medians will be replaced with concrete curbs, grass medians, and stamped colored concrete. The median south of Duval will also be shortened to increase access. The work will begin at the Duval intersection and proceed south.

The work will be completed with lane closures on each side of the median where the work is occurring. Motorists should expect minor delays; through traffic is encouraged to utilize alternate routes during construction.

Weather permitting, the work is expected to last three months.

The $302,000 Broadway Median Replacement project is a part of the City of Salina’s 2024 $5.9 million street maintenance capital improvement program.

City of Salina: Broadway Avenue median replacement begins Monday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas wants those who are interested in going elsewhere for the holidays to work on those plans.

"It's definitely time to start looking at Thanksgiving and year-end holidays and making your plans now," Steward said. "Book those flights, book those rental cars, hotels, cruises, whatever you might have in mind for holiday travel."

AAA advises booking as soon as the decision is made to travel, increasing the opportunity for a positive, stress-free experience.

"We've had a record breaking travel summer," Steward said. "We don't anticipate there being much of a drop off, if not any at all. Almost every aspect of travel is in high demand right now. Cruises are selling out. Air travel has been at record levels this past summer. Since May, the Transportation Security Administration has recorded its ten busiest days in the agency's history."

The latest findings from the Family Travel Association indicate a continued, strong desire for family travel and certainly Thanksgiving and the year-end holiday period will be no exception.

"Family travel is fun," Steward said. "It certainly requires some logistics planning. AAA has developed a website called <a href="https://familytravelpassport.com/">Family Travel Passport</a>, which helps parents and kids work together to explore options, figure out what they like and help them plan destinations that they may be interested in, not only for the end of this year, but in the future."

AAA reminds anyone planning to travel domestically over Thanksgiving or the year-end holidays that the benefits of Membership travel with the person, not the vehicle, so you are covered for Emergency Roadside Service whether you are driving your own car, someone else’s car or a rental.

AAA: Make holiday travel plans now

SALINA, KS — Beginning Monday, September 16, and running through Friday, September 20, Davis Construction will continue concrete pavement repairs on several sections of Sunrise Drive in Salina, weather permitting. The scheduled work will involve pavement removal and replacement with new mixed concrete, with road closures expected but limited residential access allowed.

These repairs are part of the City of Salina's 2024 Minor Concrete – Pavement Repair annual maintenance project, with a total cost estimated at $80,000.&nbsp;

Motorists should expect moderate delays and are advised to avoid work zones when possible. As these repairs are near Heusner Elementary, drivers, particularly parents and students, are encouraged to find alternate routes during this time to minimize disruptions.

The city appreciates the public's patience as these improvements are made.&nbsp;

Minor concrete work on Sunrise Drive to continue next week

Legislation would prevent federal government from seizing land for proposed transmission corridor

WASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;-&nbsp;U.S. Senators Jerry Moran, R-KS, and Roger Marshall, R-KS and First District Congressman Tracey Mann, R-KS, introduced legislation to prevent the federal government from using taxpayer dollars to seize private property to be used for a proposed National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor (NIETC).

The&nbsp;U.S.&nbsp;Department of Energy (DOE) recently announced a NIETC proposal to consider transmission line across&nbsp;major segments of&nbsp;Kansas, including <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/099d982a-98ff-4352-8a78-a592e5b71d28">Pawnee, Barton, and Russell counties</a>.

SEE RELATED STORY: <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d80465bc-cabd-4a80-9d54-6a70690a6c68">'Clear violation of states' rights': Rep. Waymaster fights transmission line</a>

Through the implementation of the Biden-Harris Administration’s&nbsp;Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,&nbsp;the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) would have&nbsp;increased&nbsp;authority to site electric transmission lines&nbsp;on lands designated a NIETC – even when state regulators have denied an application.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I am vehemently opposed to any effort by the federal government to seize private land,”&nbsp;said Mann.&nbsp;“The Department of Energy’s phase 2 announcement of the NIETC proposal was grossly under publicized, overly vague, and left landowners with no clarity regarding whether their lands would be impacted. 

"We have heard Kansans loud and clear—they are not interested in the federal government grabbing their land. We introduced this legislation to protect the rights of Kansas landowners and prevent the federal government from treading on their liberties. Any land given to the federal government for this project should be voluntary, not mandated, and&nbsp;I&nbsp;will never stop fighting to defend that right.”

“Kansans have made it clear to the federal government that their land is not for sale,”&nbsp;said Moran.&nbsp;

“The NIETC proposal has been problematic from the start&nbsp;since&nbsp;the DOE permitted&nbsp;only&nbsp;45 days for folks to submit their comments regarding the proposed transmission line," Moran said. "Sen. Marshall, Congressman Mann and I introduced legislation, the passage of which would prohibit the Department of Energy from trampling on the rights of Kansas landowners or usurping the authority of state regulators in order to build a transmission line across Kansas. These decisions should be left up to Kansans,&nbsp;not Washington.”

“Bureaucrats in Washington, D.C. should not have the unchecked authority to approve projects that could strip Kansans of their property rights,”&nbsp;said Marshall.&nbsp;“It’s as simple as this: decisions affecting local lands should always rest with the states.”

“Kansas Farm Bureau appreciates the leadership of Sens. Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall and Rep. Tracey Mann in introducing legislation to level the playing field and encourage good faith negotiations for the siting and building of electric transmission lines,”&nbsp;said Joe Newland, president of Kansas Farm Bureau.

&nbsp;“Additionally, this bill recognizes the important voice state regulators have in the process. While our policy supports reliable, low-cost electricity, and increasing transmission capacity to keep pace with growing demand, without vital protections included in this legislation, landowners will continue to face unilateral ultimatums from transmission developers who are using taxpayer dollars to build infrastructure," Newland said.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ban federal funds from being used to condemn private property to be used in a NIETC designation, and

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Prohibit FERC from using its authority to overrule a state regulator’s rejection of an electric transmission project.

Rep. Mann, Senator Moran, and Senator Marshall&nbsp;secured an agreement from DOE to continue accepting comments regarding the NIETC proposal in Kansas. 

If a Kansan would like to offer comments on the proposed transmission line to the Department of Energy, they can email their comments to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:NIETC@hq.doe.gov">NIETC@hq.doe.gov</a>

Legislation to protect property rights against proposed transmission line introduced by Rep. Mann, Sens. Moran, Marshall

Requested Charges:&nbsp;Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption

Requested Charges:&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor, Disorderly conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct to cause resentment and Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500

Requested Charges: Distribute certain stimulant; &lt; 3.5 grams, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circ; misd, No Proof Of Insurance, Vehicle registration renewal and Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance

Requested Charges:&nbsp;Agg assault; w/ deadly weapon, Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke, Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Poss of marijuana, Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500 and Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance

Requested Charges:&nbsp;Battery; Knowing/recklessly causing bodily harm, Battery on LEO; Physical contact with county or city officer on duty, Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose misd warrant and Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

Requested Charges:&nbsp; Probation Violation

Requested Charges: Driving while suspended

Requested Charges:&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity

Requested Charges: Probation Violation, Aggravated endangering a child; Reckless situation to child &lt;18, Flee or attempt to elude; reckless driving, Kidnapping; Unknown circumstance and Poss of stolen property;Value $1,500 to $25,000

Requested Charges:&nbsp; Probation Violation and Failure to Appear

Requested Charges:&nbsp;Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke and Domestic Battery: rude physical contact

Requested Charges:&nbsp;Contempt of Court; Direct and Poss of marijuana

Requested Charges:&nbsp;Unsafe turning or stopping - Fail to Signal and Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity

Saline County Jail Bookings, Sept. 14, 15

High School Sports LIVE STREAMS

One person was injured in an accident just before 8 a.m. Friday in Saline County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Venessa J. Frost, 21, Lincoln, was eastbound on&nbsp;Interstate 70 and struck a deer.

EMS transported Frost to Salina Regional Health Center. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kan. woman hospitalized in Salina after Jeep strikes a deer

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;KDOT Area Engineer Kevin Zimmer and Public Information Officer Lisa Mussman about the successful I-70 bridge demolition in Trego County.

🎤Forward Ever: KDOT I-70 bridge demolition

Salina Post proudly presents Flashback Friday in partnership with the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.smokyhillmuseum.org/">Smoky Hill Museum</a>. Enjoy a weekly tidbit of local history from the staff at Salina Post and the Smoky Hill Museum as we present "Salina-Flashback Fridays."&nbsp;

Built in 1911 the initial Saline County Courthouse eventually was replaced by the City-County Building in 1969.

In 1910, Saline County embarked on an ambitious project to replace its original courthouse, a limestone structure erected in 1870 at Ninth and Park Streets. Though the earlier building was once praised as "the best courthouse in Kansas," it quickly fell out of favor. 

By 1909, local opinion had turned against the outdated building, described by The Salina Daily Union as an "ugly structure" and a source of civic embarrassment.

In response to growing dissatisfaction, county commissioners took steps to erect a new courthouse that would reflect Salina's increasing importance in the region and meet the needs of its growing population. Commissioners visited several courthouses in Kansas and neighboring states, inspiring them to adopt a classical design similar to a courthouse built in Seward, Nebraska in 1905. 

The Seward courthouse's Greek-Roman style, featuring a grand marble stairway and formal pediments, provided a model for Salina's new civic building. Plans were quickly drawn by the local architectural firm Wilmarth and Zerbe, and construction began on the site of the original courthouse in 1910.

The new courthouse, completed in 1911 at a cost of $85,000, approximately $2.7 million today, was immediately recognized as an architectural landmark. Constructed of limestone with concrete floors, oak trim, and fireproof vaults, the building was designed with durability in mind. 

A separate boiler building housed a coal-fired heating system to protect the courthouse from potential fire hazards, a constant concern in a city that had experienced several devastating fires.

The interior of the building was just as grand as its exterior. Its most notable feature was the third-floor courtroom, an expansive space with 18-foot ceilings, designed to accommodate large audiences for trials, which were a common form of public entertainment at the time. 

Rooms for men and women to congregate were provided on the lower floors.

The Decline and Obsolescence of the Courthouse

Despite the fanfare surrounding its opening, the 1911 courthouse was increasingly considered inadequate for the county's growing administrative needs.

 After World War II, the volume of court cases surged, and the building's single courtroom proved insufficient to handle the demand. Offices were cramped, and there was no room to expand the services housed within the courthouse. As early as 1946, county officials recognized the need for either an expansion or a new courthouse altogether.

Over the next two decades, numerous plans were proposed, including adding wings to the existing structure. In 1946, a special property tax was levied to raise funds for courthouse improvements and a new county jail, but indecision and delays slowed the process. 

By the late 1950s, frustration within the legal community and among the general public grew. The Saline County Bar Association even threatened legal action, demanding that the county either use the funds collected through the special tax for the courthouse or return the money to taxpayers.

One major obstacle was the building's lack of modern amenities, particularly air conditioning. During the hot Kansas summers, the courthouse could become unbearably warm, with temperatures inside often exceeding 90 degrees. Office staff resorted to makeshift solutions, such as window fans and towels to absorb perspiration while handling documents. 

In 1960, a limited air conditioning system was installed, but this did little to solve the building's underlying space constraints.

By the early 1960s, it became clear that a more comprehensive solution was required to meet the space needs of the county. 

In 1965, discussions began about constructing a new City-County Building, which would house not only county offices but also city government and the Salina School District. The plan was driven in part by the economic impact of Schilling Air Force Base's closure and the availability of federal Urban Renewal funding, which provided financial incentives for redevelopment projects.

In 1965, Salina voters approved a bond issue to fund the construction of the City-County Building, and by 1969, the new facility was completed. County and city offices moved into the modern structure, leaving the 1911 courthouse vacant. However, the transition was not without controversy, as debates continued about what to do with the old building. Some advocated for its demolition, while others believed it could still serve a purpose.

Repurposing the Old CourthouseSalina Senior Cente

In the early 1970s, the formation of the Saline County Commission on Aging provided a new direction for the old courthouse. As the county's elderly population grew, there was an increasing need for services tailored to senior citizens. The old courthouse, though outdated for its original purpose, offered ample space for such programs. In 1975, the county commission approved a lease agreement that allowed the Commission on Aging to take over the building.

Today, the former courthouse houses several senior-focused programs, including the Salina Senior Center, Meals on Wheels, and the Area Agency on Aging Case Management. Despite the building's age and the challenges associated with maintaining it, the structure has found new life as a center for community services.

📸 Flashback Friday: Salina Post -Saline County Courthouse- Vol. 57

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Harrison Butker kicked a 51-yard field goal as time expired and the Kansas City Chiefs, kept alive by a pass interference call on Bengals safety Daijahn Anthony on fourth down in the final minute, rallied to beat Cincinnati 26-25 on Sunday.

Patrick Mahomes threw for 151 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions, but it was his incomplete pass to Rashee Rice on fourth-and-16 from the Kansas City 35 that turned out to be decisive. Anthony arrived a split-second early and hit Rice from behind with his body, and flags flew with 38 seconds remaining as the crowd in Arrowhead Stadium erupted.

The penalty came just after the Chiefs had a long gain on fourth down wiped out by a penalty of their own.

The pass interference call moved the Chiefs to the Cincinnati 36, and the Chiefs ran a couple of plays to bleed the clock for the big-legged Butker, who turned around and started walking off the field even before his kick went through the uprights.

Joe Burrow threw for 258 yards and two touchdowns, both to Andrei Iosivas, as the Bengals (0-2) came up empty against one of their biggest nemeses for the third straight time. That includes a loss to Kansas City in the AFC championship game.

Chamarri Conner returned a fumble 37 yards for a touchdown for the Chiefs, and big offensive tackle Wanya Morris — who had the penalty that nearly cost them in the final minute — had a touchdown reception on a day full of bizarre plays.

It was the second win for Kansas City decided on the final play after its 27-20 victory over Baltimore on opening night.

The Chiefs struggled in their first game with Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely, who had nine catches for 111 yards and a score. And with Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins absent with an ailing hamstring, Burrow leaned heavily on his own tight ends — Drew Sample, Mike Gesicki and rookie Erick All Jr. — to move an offense that never got going last weekend against New England.

Sample and Gesicki accounted for most of the yardage on an opening drive that produced a field goal. A few minutes later, after Mahomes was picked by Akeem Davis-Gaither, All's catch helped set up Iosivas' touchdown reception.

Mahomes eventually atoned for the interception when he found Rice over the outstretched fingers of Cam Taylor-Britt for a tying 44-yard touchdown pass. But otherwise, Andy Reid's potent offense was stuck in neutral and trailed 16-10 at the half.

All that and the hijinks were just beginning.

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