Country music fans, get ready! Tickets for the highly anticipated Sawyer Brown concert at the Stiefel Theatre go on sale this Friday, August 16 at 10:00 a.m. 

The legendary band is set to perform on Saturday, December 7 at 7:30 p.m., with tickets starting at $55. Fans can purchase tickets online at <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a> or at the Stiefel Theatre box office by calling 785-827-1998. The box office is open Monday through Friday from noon to 4:30 p.m.

Sawyer Brown has been a dominant force in country music for four decades, a testament to their enduring appeal and unique style. Lead singer Mark Miller attributes their longevity to the band's focus on "life songs" rather than typical love songs, a distinction that has resonated with fans across generations.

The band first captured national attention in the early 1980s as a breakout act on the popular television show "Star Search" with Ed McMahon. Despite facing rejection from Nashville's music scene, Sawyer Brown's energetic performances on the show won over millions of viewers, and they quickly became a household name. Their sound, which has been likened to country super-groups like Alabama and the Charlie Daniels Band, combined with a rock-and-roll image reminiscent of the Rolling Stones and Aerosmith, set them apart from their contemporaries.

After their television success, Sawyer Brown spent their first year-and-a-half on the road, opening for country and pop legend Kenny Rogers. This experience helped them hone their craft and solidify their place in the music industry. Over the years, they have carved out a unique niche, delivering hit after hit and selling out venues across the country.

Since their debut in 1984, Sawyer Brown has performed over 6,000 shows, released 24 albums, and charted 51 singles, including the #1 hit "Some Girls Do." Their impressive career has earned them numerous industry awards, including accolades from the Country Music Association (CMA), the Academy of Country Music (ACM), and Country Music Television (CMT). They've shared the stage with a diverse array of artists, from Kenny Rogers to Dolly Parton, and have influenced a new generation of country stars, including Blake Shelton, Dierks Bentley, Tim McGraw, and Kenny Chesney.

As they approach their 40th anniversary, Sawyer Brown shows no signs of slowing down. Their upcoming projects include Mark Miller's memoir, a documentary on the band, and a new album co-produced with Blake Shelton. The band's legacy continues to grow, with new music releases planned through early 2024.

Don't miss your chance to see Sawyer Brown live at the Stiefel Theatre this December. With a career that spans decades and a reputation for unforgettable live performances, this is one show you won't want to miss!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723577519324.jpeg" alt="Sawyer Brown" />
 <figcaption>Sawyer Brown</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTCountry music fans, get ready! Tickets for the highly anticipated Sawyer Brown concert at the Stiefel Theatre go on sale this Friday, August 16 at 10:00 a.m. The legendary band is set to perform on Saturday, December 7 at 7:30 p.m., with tickets starting at $55. Fans can purchase tickets online at <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a> or at the Stiefel Theatre box office by calling 785-827-1998. The box office is open Monday through Friday from noon to 4:30 p.m.Sawyer Brown has been a dominant force in country music for four decades, a testament to their enduring appeal and unique style. Lead singer Mark Miller attributes their longevity to the band's focus on "life songs" rather than typical love songs, a distinction that has resonated with fans across generations.The band first captured national attention in the early 1980s as a breakout act on the popular television show "Star Search" with Ed McMahon. Despite facing rejection from Nashville's music scene, Sawyer Brown's energetic performances on the show won over millions of viewers, and they quickly became a household name. Their sound, which has been likened to country super-groups like Alabama and the Charlie Daniels Band, combined with a rock-and-roll image reminiscent of the Rolling Stones and Aerosmith, set them apart from their contemporaries.After their television success, Sawyer Brown spent their first year-and-a-half on the road, opening for country and pop legend Kenny Rogers. This experience helped them hone their craft and solidify their place in the music industry. Over the years, they have carved out a unique niche, delivering hit after hit and selling out venues across the country.Since their debut in 1984, Sawyer Brown has performed over 6,000 shows, released 24 albums, and charted 51 singles, including the #1 hit "Some Girls Do." Their impressive career has earned them numerous industry awards, including accolades from the Country Music Association (CMA), the Academy of Country Music (ACM), and Country Music Television (CMT). They've shared the stage with a diverse array of artists, from Kenny Rogers to Dolly Parton, and have influenced a new generation of country stars, including Blake Shelton, Dierks Bentley, Tim McGraw, and Kenny Chesney.As they approach their 40th anniversary, Sawyer Brown shows no signs of slowing down. Their upcoming projects include Mark Miller's memoir, a documentary on the band, and a new album co-produced with Blake Shelton. The band's legacy continues to grow, with new music releases planned through early 2024.Don't miss your chance to see Sawyer Brown live at the Stiefel Theatre this December. With a career that spans decades and a reputation for unforgettable live performances, this is one show you won't want to miss!

Tickets on sale this Friday for Sawyer Brown concert at Stiefel Theatre

By SALINA POST Renowned jazz artist Esperanza Spalding is set to enchant audiences at the Stiefel Theatre on Saturday, November 16 at 7:30 p.m. Known for her innovative blend of jazz, improvisation, and storytelling, Spalding will perform an intimate set emphasizing the simplicity and depth of her voice, bass, and songs. Tickets for this highly anticipated event start at $35. Fans can buy tickets in person at the Stiefel Theatre Box Office or online at www.stiefeltheatre.org. For more information, call 785-827-1998.

This unique performance will feature Spalding accompanied by one other musician and two dancers, creating an intimate atmosphere that highlights her eclectic repertoire. Audiences can expect a diverse selection of songs from all eight of her previous albums, recent releases, and a special preview of her forthcoming project.

Spalding, also known by her alter ego Irma Nejando, is a multi-talented artist whose work spans a variety of disciplines. Trained in the North American jazz tradition, she seamlessly integrates instrumental music, singing, composition, poetry, dance, and therapeutic research into her performances. Her commitment to community and collaborative decolonization is reflected in her roles as co-founder and lead curator for Prismid Inc., a non-profit organization that fosters artist residencies and workshops in Portland, Oregon.

In addition to her musical achievements, Spalding co-founded the dance company Off Brand gOdds with Antonio Brown and leads the Songwrights Apothecary Lab. Through these initiatives, she conducts performance, teaching, and therapeutic arts research residencies at colleges and arts venues across the Americas and around the world.

Critics and fans alike praise Spalding for her extraordinary talent and innovative approach to music. One reviewer described her as a "genius" and "a total delight," noting the exceptional caliber of her musicians and the unforgettable nature of her performances.

Don’t miss the chance to experience the spellbinding artistry of Esperanza Spalding live at the Stiefel Theatre. Secure your tickets early and prepare for an evening of unparalleled musical magic.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721834989091.jpeg" alt="Esperanza Spalding. Image Courtesy Stiefel&nbsp; " />
 <figcaption>Esperanza Spalding. Image Courtesy Stiefel&nbsp; </figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POST Renowned jazz artist Esperanza Spalding is set to enchant audiences at the Stiefel Theatre on Saturday, November 16 at 7:30 p.m. Known for her innovative blend of jazz, improvisation, and storytelling, Spalding will perform an intimate set emphasizing the simplicity and depth of her voice, bass, and songs. Tickets for this highly anticipated event start at $35. Fans can buy tickets in person at the Stiefel Theatre Box Office or online at www.stiefeltheatre.org. For more information, call 785-827-1998.This unique performance will feature Spalding accompanied by one other musician and two dancers, creating an intimate atmosphere that highlights her eclectic repertoire. Audiences can expect a diverse selection of songs from all eight of her previous albums, recent releases, and a special preview of her forthcoming project.Spalding, also known by her alter ego Irma Nejando, is a multi-talented artist whose work spans a variety of disciplines. Trained in the North American jazz tradition, she seamlessly integrates instrumental music, singing, composition, poetry, dance, and therapeutic research into her performances. Her commitment to community and collaborative decolonization is reflected in her roles as co-founder and lead curator for Prismid Inc., a non-profit organization that fosters artist residencies and workshops in Portland, Oregon.In addition to her musical achievements, Spalding co-founded the dance company Off Brand gOdds with Antonio Brown and leads the Songwrights Apothecary Lab. Through these initiatives, she conducts performance, teaching, and therapeutic arts research residencies at colleges and arts venues across the Americas and around the world.Critics and fans alike praise Spalding for her extraordinary talent and innovative approach to music. One reviewer described her as a "genius" and "a total delight," noting the exceptional caliber of her musicians and the unforgettable nature of her performances.Don’t miss the chance to experience the spellbinding artistry of Esperanza Spalding live at the Stiefel Theatre. Secure your tickets early and prepare for an evening of unparalleled musical magic.

Esperanza Spalding to perform at Stiefel Theatre on November 16

Tri-Rivers Fair Parade LIVE STREAM

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;ESOP Association CEO and president James Bonham.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/V-Uo7DbbVLA?si=FYzKCOzNeQz_JpHy" 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>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;ESOP Association CEO and president James Bonham.

🎤Forward Ever: ESOP Association president James Bonham

Parade begins at 5:48 in the video. Thanks for watching!

Parade begins at 5:48 in the video. Thanks for watching!<div><div>
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CKFF Parade '24 LIVE STREAM

🎥Kustum Kemps Sundown Cruise '24

Washburn University pianist Lucy Tan will be performing selections by Beethoven, Chopin, Clara Schumann, Amy Beach, and Chen Yi in the Sandzén Gallery,&nbsp; on Sunday, July 14, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. 

An exceptional musician, her young performing career began by making a live WGBH radio debut at age 11 on “Morning Pro Musica,” followed by her concert debut at age 12 with the Brockton (Massachusetts) Symphony Orchestra. She was later featured on NPR’s “From the Top” and WBGH’s “Classics in the Morning.”

Currently, Dr. Tan, is active as part of the Washburn University Piano Quartet, and also collaborates with Dr. Zsolt Eder, concertmaster of the Topeka Symphony. She was previously featured in Chamber Music Amarillo’s concert series, was a two-time recipient of the Masonic Cultural Enrichment Grant, was showcased at Grace Episcopal Cathedral’s concert series, and featured on WPTA USA-Missouri’s concert series on the piano sonatas of Mozart.

Dr. Tan received her bachelor and master degrees from the New England Conservatory, and a doctorate in piano performance from the University of Colorado in Boulder. Her past teaching experiences include the New England Conservatory, the University of Colorado in Boulder, and Oklahoma Panhandle State University. Currently, she is the Director of Keyboard Studies at Washburn University in Topeka, where she teaches applied piano and a number of keyboard courses.

The Sandzén Gallery is located at 401 North First Street in Lindsborg. There is no charge for the concert, however, donations are appreciated.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719939481458.jpeg" alt="Lucy Tan.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Lucy Tan.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Sandzén Gallery&nbsp;Washburn University pianist Lucy Tan will be performing selections by Beethoven, Chopin, Clara Schumann, Amy Beach, and Chen Yi in the Sandzén Gallery,&nbsp; on Sunday, July 14, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. An exceptional musician, her young performing career began by making a live WGBH radio debut at age 11 on “Morning Pro Musica,” followed by her concert debut at age 12 with the Brockton (Massachusetts) Symphony Orchestra. She was later featured on NPR’s “From the Top” and WBGH’s “Classics in the Morning.”Currently, Dr. Tan, is active as part of the Washburn University Piano Quartet, and also collaborates with Dr. Zsolt Eder, concertmaster of the Topeka Symphony. She was previously featured in Chamber Music Amarillo’s concert series, was a two-time recipient of the Masonic Cultural Enrichment Grant, was showcased at Grace Episcopal Cathedral’s concert series, and featured on WPTA USA-Missouri’s concert series on the piano sonatas of Mozart.Dr. Tan received her bachelor and master degrees from the New England Conservatory, and a doctorate in piano performance from the University of Colorado in Boulder. Her past teaching experiences include the New England Conservatory, the University of Colorado in Boulder, and Oklahoma Panhandle State University. Currently, she is the Director of Keyboard Studies at Washburn University in Topeka, where she teaches applied piano and a number of keyboard courses.The Sandzén Gallery is located at 401 North First Street in Lindsborg. There is no charge for the concert, however, donations are appreciated.

Sandzén Gallery Chamber Music Concert Featuring Pianist Lucy Tan

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02476pG1zvXUF3tZFCmdBfsbNyAbJX2ZCpcW6QVSeqSQYYYFjoEUdhNH77tCR42Mxrl&amp;id=100083234953528" target="_blank">Kansas Search and Rescue Dog Association</a>&nbsp;director Deidra Stanley.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hGjCNsEVCWs?si=hAlyHJIUTd0Ur0xS" 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>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02476pG1zvXUF3tZFCmdBfsbNyAbJX2ZCpcW6QVSeqSQYYYFjoEUdhNH77tCR42Mxrl&amp;id=100083234953528" target="_blank">Kansas Search and Rescue Dog Association</a>&nbsp;director Deidra Stanley.

🎤Forward Ever: Search dog association director Deidra Stanley

<a href="mailto:rwilson@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By RON WILSON </a>Director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University

What do you take with you when you travel? A suitcase? Extra clothes? A book to read?

Today we’ll learn about a group of people who traveled halfway around the globe to Kansas 150 years ago. They brought with them something that would change the history of Kansas and the nation. I’m referring to the Mennonite families who brought with them Turkey Red wheat.

Fern Bartel is director of the Mennonite Heritage and Agricultural Museum in Goessel, Kansas. Bartel grew up at Goessel, attended Emporia State and met and married her husband. She enjoys art and volunteered on the board of the Mennonite Heritage and Agricultural Museum for 15 years before becoming director in 2017.

LISTEN:&nbsp;🎙<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/f22652ff-ed46-4cd6-95d7-5e22969eeba3">King in the Community — Nikki Goding, Salina City Clerk</a>

2024 is a special year in Goessel. It was 150 years ago that Mennonite families on the plains of Ukraine emigrated to the plains of Kansas. Fifty years ago, on the centennial of that migration, Goessel dedicated a new museum to share that story. The museum has now grown into eight buildings in a village-like setting.

In 1874, Mennonite farmers and their families in southern Russia chose to migrate because their religious freedoms were being curtailed by the government. The Santa Fe Railroad recruited them to come to the central plains of the United States, and built barracks-like structures called Immigrant Houses as temporary housing for the arriving families.

Many Mennonites made the journey and settled in southcentral Kansas. They brought with them seeds of Turkey Red winter wheat in large jars and sacks.

This variety of wheat would prove well-suited to the Kansas climate. According to the Kansas Wheat Commission, its introduction “revolutionized the wheat industry in Kansas, and Turkey Red wheat is now the ancestor to all hard red winter wheat varieties grown across the plains today.”

Alexanderwohl was the name of one of the southern Russian villages from which some of the Mennonites came. When immigrant houses were built here, a church that carried the village name was built nearby. The Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church is still active in Goessel today.

The city was named after Captain&nbsp;<a href="https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kurt_von_Goessel">Kurt von Goessel</a>&nbsp;who went down with his ship after it was rammed in the&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/English_Channel">English Channel</a>.

Almost all of the original population of Goessel was Mennonite. After the Mennonite Heritage and Agricultural Museum was established, it came to include many display cases that traced the lineage and descendants of the first settlers.

The first building to be included in the museum complex was the Goessel Preparatory School, which was constructed in 1906. In later years, it served as the high school’s industrial arts classroom until the 1970s. The proposed demise of this building sparked the idea of a museum and led to the building being moved to its current site. A replica of a railroad Immigrant House also was constructed.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/31f6d68a-8395-4efd-8526-48808a883b85">Wheat Scoop: Gone with the Wind</a>

A new building constructed in 1974 was called the Turkey Red Wheat Palace. That includes a large variety of antique farm equipment plus the Wheat Straw Liberty Bell. This is a giant replica of the Liberty Bell, constructed of wheat and straw over wire and tubing. It was commissioned by the Smithsonian Institute and built by the Mennonites at Goessel to commemorate the nation’s bicentennial.

The bell is eight and a half feet tall and accurate in every detail. The body is straw and the crack is marked by wheat berries outlined by black thread.

Other buildings added to the complex and their years of construction include the 1902 Schroeder Barn, the 1911 Friesen House, the 1910 Goessel State Bank, the 1875 South Bloomfield School, and the 1875 Krause House. The museum has drawn visitors from across the nation and beyond.

It’s a remarkable resource to be found in a rural community such as Goessel, population 556 people. Now, that’s rural.

For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.goesselmuseum.com/">www.goesselmuseum.com</a>.

What do you take with you when you travel? We’re so thankful that these Mennonite families brought Turkey Red Wheat with them, and we’re grateful that Fern Bartel and others are making a difference by preserving and sharing this heritage. For modern-day visitors, it is worth the travel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719509143759.jpeg" alt="Fern Bartel is director of the Mennonite Heritage and Agricultural Museum in Goessel, Kansas. Bartel grew up at Goessel, attended Emporia State and met and married her husband. She enjoys art and volunteered on the board of the Mennonite Heritage and Agricultural Museum for 15 years before becoming director in 2017. Image Courtesy Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development" />
 <figcaption>Fern Bartel is director of the Mennonite Heritage and Agricultural Museum in Goessel, Kansas. Bartel grew up at Goessel, attended Emporia State and met and married her husband. She enjoys art and volunteered on the board of the Mennonite Heritage and Agricultural Museum for 15 years before becoming director in 2017. Image Courtesy Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:rwilson@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By RON WILSON </a>Director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State UniversityWhat do you take with you when you travel? A suitcase? Extra clothes? A book to read?Today we’ll learn about a group of people who traveled halfway around the globe to Kansas 150 years ago. They brought with them something that would change the history of Kansas and the nation. I’m referring to the Mennonite families who brought with them Turkey Red wheat.Fern Bartel is director of the Mennonite Heritage and Agricultural Museum in Goessel, Kansas. Bartel grew up at Goessel, attended Emporia State and met and married her husband. She enjoys art and volunteered on the board of the Mennonite Heritage and Agricultural Museum for 15 years before becoming director in 2017. LISTEN:&nbsp;🎙<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/f22652ff-ed46-4cd6-95d7-5e22969eeba3">King in the Community — Nikki Goding, Salina City Clerk</a>2024 is a special year in Goessel. It was 150 years ago that Mennonite families on the plains of Ukraine emigrated to the plains of Kansas. Fifty years ago, on the centennial of that migration, Goessel dedicated a new museum to share that story. The museum has now grown into eight buildings in a village-like setting.In 1874, Mennonite farmers and their families in southern Russia chose to migrate because their religious freedoms were being curtailed by the government. The Santa Fe Railroad recruited them to come to the central plains of the United States, and built barracks-like structures called Immigrant Houses as temporary housing for the arriving families.Many Mennonites made the journey and settled in southcentral Kansas. They brought with them seeds of Turkey Red winter wheat in large jars and sacks.This variety of wheat would prove well-suited to the Kansas climate. According to the Kansas Wheat Commission, its introduction “revolutionized the wheat industry in Kansas, and Turkey Red wheat is now the ancestor to all hard red winter wheat varieties grown across the plains today.”Alexanderwohl was the name of one of the southern Russian villages from which some of the Mennonites came. When immigrant houses were built here, a church that carried the village name was built nearby. The Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church is still active in Goessel today.The city was named after Captain&nbsp;<a href="https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kurt_von_Goessel">Kurt von Goessel</a>&nbsp;who went down with his ship after it was rammed in the&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/English_Channel">English Channel</a>.Almost all of the original population of Goessel was Mennonite. After the Mennonite Heritage and Agricultural Museum was established, it came to include many display cases that traced the lineage and descendants of the first settlers.The first building to be included in the museum complex was the Goessel Preparatory School, which was constructed in 1906. In later years, it served as the high school’s industrial arts classroom until the 1970s. The proposed demise of this building sparked the idea of a museum and led to the building being moved to its current site. A replica of a railroad Immigrant House also was constructed.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/31f6d68a-8395-4efd-8526-48808a883b85">Wheat Scoop: Gone with the Wind</a>A new building constructed in 1974 was called the Turkey Red Wheat Palace. That includes a large variety of antique farm equipment plus the Wheat Straw Liberty Bell. This is a giant replica of the Liberty Bell, constructed of wheat and straw over wire and tubing. It was commissioned by the Smithsonian Institute and built by the Mennonites at Goessel to commemorate the nation’s bicentennial.The bell is eight and a half feet tall and accurate in every detail. The body is straw and the crack is marked by wheat berries outlined by black thread.Other buildings added to the complex and their years of construction include the 1902 Schroeder Barn, the 1911 Friesen House, the 1910 Goessel State Bank, the 1875 South Bloomfield School, and the 1875 Krause House. The museum has drawn visitors from across the nation and beyond.It’s a remarkable resource to be found in a rural community such as Goessel, population 556 people. Now, that’s rural.For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.goesselmuseum.com/">www.goesselmuseum.com</a>.What do you take with you when you travel? We’re so thankful that these Mennonite families brought Turkey Red Wheat with them, and we’re grateful that Fern Bartel and others are making a difference by preserving and sharing this heritage. For modern-day visitors, it is worth the travel.

KSRE — Now That’s Rural: Fern Bartel, Mennonite Museum

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina Post

Salina's first park transformed for the Smoky Hill River Festival weekend, with the familiar Oakdale covered by the colorful world of the 48th festival.

The murmur of more than 150 musical and artistic performances across three stages greeted thousands of visitors as they walked across Oakdale Park's decorated bridges.

Outside the stages sat seemingly endless rows of exhibiting artists, selling their work created anywhere from down the road in town to states away. 

Even <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/01acc2b3-402f-446d-b131-92f0ceca2629">through two severe storm warnings and dozens of broken pieces of artwork</a>, many visitors took home one-of-a-kind handmade items. Many visitors said, "It wouldn't be the festival without some rain!" which many Kansas visitors seemed accustomed to.

Although rain, wind and small hail cut the SM Hanson Festival Jam short, bands continued performing throughout the weekend. Don Wagner &amp; Friends, the fourth of 17 groups, was the last band to play at Festival Jam.

Those who had the chance to perform before the storm hit town included Salina South Jazz Band, Visual Lies, Downtown Funk and Don Wagner &amp; Friends.

Lix, King Tones, Fed Up, Hey Radio, Soul Preachers, Drop Everything, Kyndred, HyWay 14, Bootleg Mercy, Dunebuggy, Love Like War, Steve Hanson &amp; Co. and The Blades missed their chance to play in front of the festival crowd.

Oakdale Park reopened the following day at 10 a.m., with Jane Anderson, the executive director of the Friends of the River Foundation, parading a young YMCA class around the park alongside their Smoky Hill River puppet crew.

As the young class paraded around the park, they saw sights of aspiring fiber artists using a loom for the first time, bands from across the country playing on the festival stages and artists selling their works to customers.

Nashville-based band Wildermiss was one of the 151 performances that entertained the Smoky Hill River Festival crowds.

"Our booking agent said, 'You should play this,' and we said, 'Yeah, we should!' and so it worked out because it's kind of the beginning of our tour," said Wildermiss lead singer Emma Cole. "I feel like [our sound] has a little bit of everything; with this last album we released, so much of it is touching on ethereal, ambient with indie, alternative rock, and then some bubble gum pop with some moody, heavy hitting ruby disco."

Cultivating creativity — a unique space for the youth

Artyopolis decorated the western edge of Oakdale Park, a space catered to inspiring creativity for young festival attendees.

LISTEN: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/df176786-0721-4298-8c69-b390ec66f798">🎙King in the Community Podcast — Susan Eberwein, Artyopolis coordinator</a>

Just north of Artyopolis and Arty's Stage, the exclusive First Treasures welcomed only children ages 4 to 13 to enter and purchase a piece of artwork without parental influence.

"It's a good opportunity for them because it allows kids to explore their imagination and do different things themselves," said Haley Beebe, a Salina resident attending the festival. "And [I got] to know what they like and don't like."

Beebe took Leah Smith, 13, and Edison Beebe, 7, this year to the First Treasures pavilion, where each purchased a piece of artwork donated by festival vendors for $5 or less.

"I love art, especially stuff similar to that [the painting she chose from First Treasures], and I think it's so amazing," Leah said. "It inspires me."

This year was Leah's first encounter with First Treasures, while Edison attended the event for the first time last year. 

Smoky Hill River Festival volunteers helped children navigate the experience and provided information about the artists who created the artwork they purchased.

"It's a good experience," Beebe said. "We went and saw his [Edison's] artist and got to take a picture with them."

Underneath the cool shade of an Oakdale Park pavilion, seven art and craft artists chatted with customers while creating new jewelry pieces, wooden utensils, ceramic pots and more.

This year, the Art and Craft Demonstrating Artists included Julie Cates from Salina, Vaughn Evans from Linwood, Tracey Musselwhite from Salina, Nicholas Pahls from Salina, Amethyst Sankey and Pam Pentico from Salina, Liz Bonney from Lawrence and Eleanor Carlson from Blue Rapids.

Throughout the festival, each artist demonstrated how they created their handmade items, answered questions for curious attendees and walked aspiring artists through different steps of their processes.

Musselwhite is a science teacher at Coronado Elementary in town but has enjoyed pottery since childhood and continues the practice today.

"I've had several students come through here, and some of them didn't realize that I did this," Musselwhite said. "They take such an interest in it, and I love seeing the kids excited about art."

Close by, with a small torch in hand, Carlson demonstrated her process of making jewelry with precious metals and gemstones of varying shapes.

Carlson said she attended <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/">Fort Hays State University</a> in western Kansas and participated in a national student exchange program at <a href="https://www.ric.edu/">Rhode Island College</a>, where she learned most of her silversmithing skills.

"I paid Fort Hays prices to go to Rhode Island College for a year, and that was fantastic," Carlson said. "That's where I learned a lot of my silver smithing and general introduction to fine metal smithing."

Once she returned from Rhode Island College, she discovered that Fort Hays did not have much support for fine metal smithing, but a sculpture professor strove to provide Carlson with a creative space.

"[Professor Toby Flores] did a great job of giving me a little corner in the studio, and I got to do jewelry work as much as I wanted," Carlson said. "I got to explore many different things and cast a lot of bigger bronze and iron things... and just had an amazing experience."

Carlson said she now renovated a part of her home for her jewelry studio in Blue Rapids, where she creates jewelry to sell at festivals and other vendor events.

Click the arrows on the left and right of the window above to see photos from the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival.

Concluding another Smoky Hill River Festival

On Sunday, June 16, eager attendees entered the park to attempt to find a glass Round-Tuit created by festival demonstrating artist Vaughn Evans. Children raced between bushes to look for the sparkling ember glass pieces inscribed with a bee on the bottom.

After attendees found a Round-Tuit, they could visit Evans at the demonstration pavilion to ask questions and view his other artwork.

Throughout the festival, other artists painted facilities of Oakdale Park, wrapped trees with colorful crocheted pieces by local high school students and the roaming Flint Hill Fairies and their thrum of cheerful music.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719161991168.jpeg" alt="The Weave a Community booth encourages young 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival attendees to try new types of art mediums and create something new with the help of a creative volunteer on Sunday, June 16, at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Kat Woods" />
 <figcaption>The Weave a Community booth encourages young 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival attendees to try new types of art mediums and create something new with the help of a creative volunteer on Sunday, June 16, at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Kat Woods</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostSalina's first park transformed for the Smoky Hill River Festival weekend, with the familiar Oakdale covered by the colorful world of the 48th festival.The murmur of more than 150 musical and artistic performances across three stages greeted thousands of visitors as they walked across Oakdale Park's decorated bridges.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719161852498.jpeg" alt="Families and visitors pass through the walkways surrounded by rows and rows for more than 158 artist vendors selling various pieces of artwork on Saturday, June 15, at the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Kat Woods" />
 <figcaption>Families and visitors pass through the walkways surrounded by rows and rows for more than 158 artist vendors selling various pieces of artwork on Saturday, June 15, at the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Kat Woods</figcaption>
 </figure>Outside the stages sat seemingly endless rows of exhibiting artists, selling their work created anywhere from down the road in town to states away. Even <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/01acc2b3-402f-446d-b131-92f0ceca2629">through two severe storm warnings and dozens of broken pieces of artwork</a>, many visitors took home one-of-a-kind handmade items. Many visitors said, "It wouldn't be the festival without some rain!" which many Kansas visitors seemed accustomed to.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719161290180.jpeg" alt="Topeka artist Nick Perry's work on display at the East Side Art Show for the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival on Saturday, June 15, at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Kat Woods" />
 <figcaption>Topeka artist Nick Perry's work on display at the East Side Art Show for the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival on Saturday, June 15, at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Kat Woods</figcaption>
 </figure>Although rain, wind and small hail cut the SM Hanson Festival Jam short, bands continued performing throughout the weekend. Don Wagner &amp; Friends, the fourth of 17 groups, was the last band to play at Festival Jam.<h2>Festival Jam Bands</h2>Those who had the chance to perform before the storm hit town included Salina South Jazz Band, Visual Lies, Downtown Funk and Don Wagner &amp; Friends.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718331020619.jpeg" alt="The Salina South High School Jazz Band performs at the 2024 SM Hanson Festival Jam during the Smoky Hill River Festival on Thursday, June 13, in Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The Salina South High School Jazz Band performs at the 2024 SM Hanson Festival Jam during the Smoky Hill River Festival on Thursday, June 13, in Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Lix, King Tones, Fed Up, Hey Radio, Soul Preachers, Drop Everything, Kyndred, HyWay 14, Bootleg Mercy, Dunebuggy, Love Like War, Steve Hanson &amp; Co. and The Blades missed their chance to play in front of the festival crowd.Oakdale Park reopened the following day at 10 a.m., with Jane Anderson, the executive director of the Friends of the River Foundation, parading a young YMCA class around the park alongside their Smoky Hill River puppet crew.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718478120275.jpeg" alt="Friends of the River members lead YMCA kids through Oakdale Park during the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival on Friday, June 14. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Friends of the River members lead YMCA kids through Oakdale Park during the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival on Friday, June 14. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>As the young class paraded around the park, they saw sights of aspiring fiber artists using a loom for the first time, bands from across the country playing on the festival stages and artists selling their works to customers.Nashville-based band Wildermiss was one of the 151 performances that entertained the Smoky Hill River Festival crowds.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719161428631.jpeg" alt="Wildermiss lead singer Emma Cole performs on the Eric Stein Stage on Friday, June 14, in Oakdale Park for the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Wildermiss lead singer Emma Cole performs on the Eric Stein Stage on Friday, June 14, in Oakdale Park for the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"Our booking agent said, 'You should play this,' and we said, 'Yeah, we should!' and so it worked out because it's kind of the beginning of our tour," said Wildermiss lead singer Emma Cole. "I feel like [our sound] has a little bit of everything; with this last album we released, so much of it is touching on ethereal, ambient with indie, alternative rock, and then some bubble gum pop with some moody, heavy hitting ruby disco."<h2>Cultivating creativity — a unique space for the youth</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719161809635.jpeg" alt="A display case with demonstrating artist Vaughn Evans' pieces of handmade glass artwork for sale on Sunday, June 16, at the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Kat Woods" />
 <figcaption>A display case with demonstrating artist Vaughn Evans' pieces of handmade glass artwork for sale on Sunday, June 16, at the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Kat Woods</figcaption>
 </figure>Artyopolis decorated the western edge of Oakdale Park, a space catered to inspiring creativity for young festival attendees.LISTEN: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/df176786-0721-4298-8c69-b390ec66f798">🎙King in the Community Podcast — Susan Eberwein, Artyopolis coordinator</a>Just north of Artyopolis and Arty's Stage, the exclusive First Treasures welcomed only children ages 4 to 13 to enter and purchase a piece of artwork without parental influence."It's a good opportunity for them because it allows kids to explore their imagination and do different things themselves," said Haley Beebe, a Salina resident attending the festival. "And [I got] to know what they like and don't like."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719162164820.jpeg" alt="Madelyn Soper, 11, from Salina, and August Mulryan, 4, from Kansas City, show off the items they purchased from First Treasures while making plans to visit the arts that created their new handmade items during the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival on Saturday, June 15, at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Madelyn Soper, 11, from Salina, and August Mulryan, 4, from Kansas City, show off the items they purchased from First Treasures while making plans to visit the arts that created their new handmade items during the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival on Saturday, June 15, at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Beebe took Leah Smith, 13, and Edison Beebe, 7, this year to the First Treasures pavilion, where each purchased a piece of artwork donated by festival vendors for $5 or less."I love art, especially stuff similar to that [the painting she chose from First Treasures], and I think it's so amazing," Leah said. "It inspires me."This year was Leah's first encounter with First Treasures, while Edison attended the event for the first time last year. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719162235671.jpeg" alt="First Treasures sits with a line of families ready to purchase a ticket for their children to get a one-of-a-kind piece of artwork for less than $5 during the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival on Saturday, June 15, at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>First Treasures sits with a line of families ready to purchase a ticket for their children to get a one-of-a-kind piece of artwork for less than $5 during the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival on Saturday, June 15, at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Smoky Hill River Festival volunteers helped children navigate the experience and provided information about the artists who created the artwork they purchased."It's a good experience," Beebe said. "We went and saw his [Edison's] artist and got to take a picture with them."<h2>Inspiration from the creative process</h2>Underneath the cool shade of an Oakdale Park pavilion, seven art and craft artists chatted with customers while creating new jewelry pieces, wooden utensils, ceramic pots and more.This year, the Art and Craft Demonstrating Artists included Julie Cates from Salina, Vaughn Evans from Linwood, Tracey Musselwhite from Salina, Nicholas Pahls from Salina, Amethyst Sankey and Pam Pentico from Salina, Liz Bonney from Lawrence and Eleanor Carlson from Blue Rapids.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719162313272.jpeg" alt="Amethyst Sankey and Pam Pentico's metalwork stands on display during the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival on Sunday, June 16, at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Kat Woods" />
 <figcaption>Amethyst Sankey and Pam Pentico's metalwork stands on display during the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival on Sunday, June 16, at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Kat Woods</figcaption>
 </figure>Throughout the festival, each artist demonstrated how they created their handmade items, answered questions for curious attendees and walked aspiring artists through different steps of their processes.Musselwhite is a science teacher at Coronado Elementary in town but has enjoyed pottery since childhood and continues the practice today."I've had several students come through here, and some of them didn't realize that I did this," Musselwhite said. "They take such an interest in it, and I love seeing the kids excited about art."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719162379421.jpeg" alt="Tracey Musselwhite shapes a small pot out of clay during a demonstration on Sunday, June 16, during the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Tracey Musselwhite shapes a small pot out of clay during a demonstration on Sunday, June 16, during the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Close by, with a small torch in hand, Carlson demonstrated her process of making jewelry with precious metals and gemstones of varying shapes.Carlson said she attended <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/">Fort Hays State University</a> in western Kansas and participated in a national student exchange program at <a href="https://www.ric.edu/">Rhode Island College</a>, where she learned most of her silversmithing skills."I paid Fort Hays prices to go to Rhode Island College for a year, and that was fantastic," Carlson said. "That's where I learned a lot of my silver smithing and general introduction to fine metal smithing."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719162983143.jpeg" alt="Blue Rapids-based jewelry artist Eleanor Carlson works at the Arts and Craft Demonstrating Artist Pavilion on Sunday, June 16, during the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Blue Rapids-based jewelry artist Eleanor Carlson works at the Arts and Craft Demonstrating Artist Pavilion on Sunday, June 16, during the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Once she returned from Rhode Island College, she discovered that Fort Hays did not have much support for fine metal smithing, but a sculpture professor strove to provide Carlson with a creative space."[Professor Toby Flores] did a great job of giving me a little corner in the studio, and I got to do jewelry work as much as I wanted," Carlson said. "I got to explore many different things and cast a lot of bigger bronze and iron things... and just had an amazing experience."Carlson said she now renovated a part of her home for her jewelry studio in Blue Rapids, where she creates jewelry to sell at festivals and other vendor events.<div><a data-flickr-embed="true" data-footer="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/200778904@N03/albums/72177720318163652" title="2024 Smoky Hill River Festival"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53811135785_db2b942aa2_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="2024 Smoky Hill River Festival"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Click the arrows on the left and right of the window above to see photos from the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival.<h2>Concluding another Smoky Hill River Festival</h2>On Sunday, June 16, eager attendees entered the park to attempt to find a glass Round-Tuit created by festival demonstrating artist Vaughn Evans. Children raced between bushes to look for the sparkling ember glass pieces inscribed with a bee on the bottom.After attendees found a Round-Tuit, they could visit Evans at the demonstration pavilion to ask questions and view his other artwork.Throughout the festival, other artists painted facilities of Oakdale Park, wrapped trees with colorful crocheted pieces by local high school students and the roaming Flint Hill Fairies and their thrum of cheerful music.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F1507794956819513&width=500&show_text=true&height=572&appId" width="500" height="572" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Inspiring artists through celebrating creativity — a walk through the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Department of Commerce Community Development Specialist Sara Bloom.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-x4jb-pMEsg?si=50OqA7MYOln789SV" 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>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Department of Commerce Community Development Specialist Sara Bloom.

🎤Forward Ever: KS Dept. of Commerce Employee of the Year Sara Bloom

The Stiefel Theatre announced earlier this week that the multi-talented comedian, actor, singer, and writer Rodney Carrington will be performing on Saturday, September 21 at 7:30 p.m. at the historic Stiefel Theatre. 

Tickets, starting at $49, go on sale Friday, June 21 at 10 a.m. They can be purchased in person at the Stiefel Theatre Box Office, online at <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>, or by calling 785-827-1998.

Known for his hilarious stand-up routines and comedic songs, Carrington promises an evening of laughter and entertainment for mature audiences only.

Carrington, one of the top 10 highest-grossing touring comedians for the past two decades, has released several successful comedy albums, including his latest, "Get Em Out," which hit #1 on iTunes. He has also starred in his own sitcom, "Rodney," co-wrote and co-starred in the feature film "Beer for My Horses" with Toby Keith, and released a popular Netflix special.

Don't miss the chance to see Rodney Carrington live as he continues to entertain audiences worldwide with his unique blend of humor and music.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699384815089.png" alt="Stiefel Theatre" />
 <figcaption>Stiefel Theatre</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe Stiefel Theatre announced earlier this week that the multi-talented comedian, actor, singer, and writer Rodney Carrington will be performing on Saturday, September 21 at 7:30 p.m. at the historic Stiefel Theatre. Tickets, starting at $49, go on sale Friday, June 21 at 10 a.m. They can be purchased in person at the Stiefel Theatre Box Office, online at <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>, or by calling 785-827-1998.Known for his hilarious stand-up routines and comedic songs, Carrington promises an evening of laughter and entertainment for mature audiences only.Carrington, one of the top 10 highest-grossing touring comedians for the past two decades, has released several successful comedy albums, including his latest, "Get Em Out," which hit #1 on iTunes. He has also starred in his own sitcom, "Rodney," co-wrote and co-starred in the feature film "Beer for My Horses" with Toby Keith, and released a popular Netflix special.Don't miss the chance to see Rodney Carrington live as he continues to entertain audiences worldwide with his unique blend of humor and music.<h2>Mature Audiences ONLY!</h2>

Rodney Carrington to perform at Stiefel Theatre in Salina

Salina, get ready for an unforgettable night of post-punk nostalgia and rock &amp; roll energy. The Psychedelic Furs and The Jesus and Mary Chain are coming to the Stiefel Theatre on Thursday, October 24 at 7 p.m. Tickets go on sale this Friday, June 21, at 10 am, starting at $69.

Grab your tickets online at <a href="http://stiefeltheatre.org">stiefeltheatre.org</a> or at the Stiefel box office by calling 785-827-1998. The Stiefel box office is open Monday through Friday, noon to 4:30 p.m.

The Psychedelic Furs, fronted by the charismatic Richard Butler and his bass-playing brother Tim, have left a lasting mark on the rock &amp; roll landscape. Emerging from the UK post-punk scene, they quickly became a staple of college and alternative radio with hits like "Love My Way," "Pretty In Pink," "Heaven," "The Ghost In You," and "Heartbreak Beat." Their influence spans over four decades, highlighted by their latest album, "Made Of Rain," which received critical acclaim and became their second-highest-charting UK album.

Known for their electrifying live performances, The Psychedelic Furs have graced stages at prestigious venues such as the Hollywood Bowl, London's Royal Albert Hall, and New York's Radio City Music Hall. The current lineup features Richard Butler (vocals), Tim Butler (bass), Rich Good (guitar), Amanda Kramer (keyboards), and Zachary Alford (drums).

Celebrating their 40th anniversary in 2024, The Jesus and Mary Chain are set to release their new album "Glasgow Eyes" on March 8. The band, formed by brothers Jim and William Reid, continues to push boundaries with their intense, darkly romantic sound. The new album, recorded at Mogwai’s Castle of Doom studio, marks a return to their roots while embracing new influences.

Fans can expect classic Mary Chain elements blended with fresh, radical sounds in their latest single "JAMCOD." Despite decades of making music, the Reids maintain their spontaneous, anarchic approach to recording, capturing the raw energy that has defined their career.

This is a rare opportunity to see two legendary bands in one night, so don't miss out. Secure your tickets this Friday and prepare for a night of unforgettable music at the Stiefel Theatre.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699384815089.png" alt="Stiefel Theatre" />
 <figcaption>Stiefel Theatre</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTSalina, get ready for an unforgettable night of post-punk nostalgia and rock &amp; roll energy. The Psychedelic Furs and The Jesus and Mary Chain are coming to the Stiefel Theatre on Thursday, October 24 at 7 p.m. Tickets go on sale this Friday, June 21, at 10 am, starting at $69.Grab your tickets online at <a href="http://stiefeltheatre.org">stiefeltheatre.org</a> or at the Stiefel box office by calling 785-827-1998. The Stiefel box office is open Monday through Friday, noon to 4:30 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718810842259.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy Stiefel Theatre" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy Stiefel Theatre</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The Psychedelic Furs</h2>The Psychedelic Furs, fronted by the charismatic Richard Butler and his bass-playing brother Tim, have left a lasting mark on the rock &amp; roll landscape. Emerging from the UK post-punk scene, they quickly became a staple of college and alternative radio with hits like "Love My Way," "Pretty In Pink," "Heaven," "The Ghost In You," and "Heartbreak Beat." Their influence spans over four decades, highlighted by their latest album, "Made Of Rain," which received critical acclaim and became their second-highest-charting UK album.Known for their electrifying live performances, The Psychedelic Furs have graced stages at prestigious venues such as the Hollywood Bowl, London's Royal Albert Hall, and New York's Radio City Music Hall. The current lineup features Richard Butler (vocals), Tim Butler (bass), Rich Good (guitar), Amanda Kramer (keyboards), and Zachary Alford (drums).<h2>The Jesus and Mary Chain</h2>Celebrating their 40th anniversary in 2024, The Jesus and Mary Chain are set to release their new album "Glasgow Eyes" on March 8. The band, formed by brothers Jim and William Reid, continues to push boundaries with their intense, darkly romantic sound. The new album, recorded at Mogwai’s Castle of Doom studio, marks a return to their roots while embracing new influences.Fans can expect classic Mary Chain elements blended with fresh, radical sounds in their latest single "JAMCOD." Despite decades of making music, the Reids maintain their spontaneous, anarchic approach to recording, capturing the raw energy that has defined their career.This is a rare opportunity to see two legendary bands in one night, so don't miss out. Secure your tickets this Friday and prepare for a night of unforgettable music at the Stiefel Theatre.

The Psychedelic Furs and The Jesus and Mary Chain at the Stiefel Theatre in Oct. 

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with District 111 Representative Barbara Wasinger.&nbsp;

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VG5fXQSMzgc?si=B-doP6FQ71Io1v0_" 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>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with District 111 Representative Barbara Wasinger.&nbsp;

🎤Forward Ever: District 111 Rep. Barbara Wasinger

Staff of the Lindsborg Midsummer's Festival announced on social media that gates to Heritage Square will re-open at 6:15 p.m. and the show will begin again at 7:00 p.m.

Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.

Under the beaming summer sun with the murmur of traditional Swedish songs like "Sma Grodorna" and "Mo' Grisar," hundreds of visitors plan to experience a little bit of Swedish heritage for the 2024 Midsummer's 

For many Lindsborg residents, the Midsummer's Festival is a staple to celebrate the warm summer months and the rich Swedish heritage that decorates the small town.

If asked, any resident would say, "The festival has been around as long as I can remember," to this day, Visit Lindsborg continues to search for the year the organized tradition formed in the community.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/665c942c-cc1a-41e3-822b-9e72f7039d98">Salina Parks and Rec. replaces 26-year-old equipment at local park</a>

"We've got committee members in their 50s and 60s who say, 'It's been going on my whole life,' or, 'It's been going on since I was in high school," said Megan Elmer, secretary of the Midsummer's Committee. "I'd love to know because this could be a big year, and we could accidentally miss it."

Regular staples like the Swedish Dancers and the Viking Reenactors plan to perform at Riverside Park, but Elmer said the committee invited some new acts this year. 

The Lindsborg Folkdanslag, an adult dancing troupe, will join the park's lineup of performers, fitting in between the Swedish Heritage Dancers and the Viking Reenactors.

"This year, we've got the Scandinavian Folk Dancers of Kansas City," Elmer said. "My favorite little tidbit about them is they actually performed for IKEA whenever it opened in Kansas City."

The Scandinavian Folk Dancers will perform at noon in Riverside Park.

Alongside the acts during the day in the park, dozens of craft vendors plan to display and demonstrate their arts, like rope making, wood carving and a blacksmith.

For more information on the Midsummer's Festival, visit the <a href="https://www.midsummersfestival.com/">Midsummer's Festival website</a> to see the full lineup of events. Entry to the festival is free, but guests can choose to buy artwork, bloom crowns or food while visiting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718491894238.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Midsummer’s Festival" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Midsummer’s Festival</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTStaff of the Lindsborg Midsummer's Festival announced on social media that gates to Heritage Square will re-open at 6:15 p.m. and the show will begin again at 7:00 p.m.Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717881201133.jpeg" alt="Visit Lindsborg 2024 Midsummer's Festival graphic. Graphic courtesy Visit Lindsborg" />
 <figcaption>Visit Lindsborg 2024 Midsummer's Festival graphic. Graphic courtesy Visit Lindsborg</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostUnder the beaming summer sun with the murmur of traditional Swedish songs like "Sma Grodorna" and "Mo' Grisar," hundreds of visitors plan to experience a little bit of Swedish heritage for the 2024 Midsummer's For many Lindsborg residents, the Midsummer's Festival is a staple to celebrate the warm summer months and the rich Swedish heritage that decorates the small town.If asked, any resident would say, "The festival has been around as long as I can remember," to this day, Visit Lindsborg continues to search for the year the organized tradition formed in the community.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718308376995.png" alt="Midsummer's Festival. Image courtesy Visit Lindsborg" />
 <figcaption>Midsummer's Festival. Image courtesy Visit Lindsborg</figcaption>
 </figure>READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/665c942c-cc1a-41e3-822b-9e72f7039d98">Salina Parks and Rec. replaces 26-year-old equipment at local park</a>"We've got committee members in their 50s and 60s who say, 'It's been going on my whole life,' or, 'It's been going on since I was in high school," said Megan Elmer, secretary of the Midsummer's Committee. "I'd love to know because this could be a big year, and we could accidentally miss it."Regular staples like the Swedish Dancers and the Viking Reenactors plan to perform at Riverside Park, but Elmer said the committee invited some new acts this year. The Lindsborg Folkdanslag, an adult dancing troupe, will join the park's lineup of performers, fitting in between the Swedish Heritage Dancers and the Viking Reenactors.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718308495034.png" alt="The raising of the Midsummer's Festival Pole. Image courtesy Visit Lindsborg" />
 <figcaption>The raising of the Midsummer's Festival Pole. Image courtesy Visit Lindsborg</figcaption>
 </figure>"This year, we've got the Scandinavian Folk Dancers of Kansas City," Elmer said. "My favorite little tidbit about them is they actually performed for IKEA whenever it opened in Kansas City."The Scandinavian Folk Dancers will perform at noon in Riverside Park.Alongside the acts during the day in the park, dozens of craft vendors plan to display and demonstrate their arts, like rope making, wood carving and a blacksmith.For more information on the Midsummer's Festival, visit the <a href="https://www.midsummersfestival.com/">Midsummer's Festival website</a> to see the full lineup of events. Entry to the festival is free, but guests can choose to buy artwork, bloom crowns or food while visiting.

UPDATED: Midsummer's Festival activities resume 

Click the arrows on the left and right of the window above to see photos from the 38th SM Hanson Festival Jam.

By COLETTE STRASNER Salina Post Contributor

Thursday, June 13 marked the 38th SM Hanson Festival Jam, which unfortunately had to end several hours ahead of schedule due to heavy rain in the area. 

Although the park will reopen today at 10 a.m., due to the nature of the event and the schedules of the performers, SM Hanson Festival Jam itself will not be rescheduled.

READ MORE:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d8fdfd0e-0146-48a6-9e74-5abbab9d8c48">&nbsp;Salina Arts and Humanities — Smoky Hill River Festival reminders</a>

Being in its 38th year, SM Hanson Festival Jam as well as the 48th Smoky Hill River Festival, have an important place in the lives of many area residents and their families. Festival attendee Ami Allison spoke of her family’s relationship with the event.

 “We buy festival shirts every year, all of the family pictures are in our festival shirts in the summertime," Allison said.&nbsp;

The Allisons have been using the event as a family reunion for around fifty years, returning time and time again to enjoy the music and to look back fondly on years past.

The SM Hanson Festival Jam certainly has a history of fond memories and great music, but the event is no stranger to severe weather putting a damper on things either. 

Salina Arts and Humanities Assistant Director Anna Pauscher Morawitz told Salina Post that the last time this had happened was as recently as 2021. Despite SM Hanson Festival Jam’s abrupt ending last night, the rest of the Smoky Hill River Festival will continue as scheduled throughout the rest of this weekend. 

Salina Post would like to thank the artists and event staff of the for all the work and passion put into this event.

<div><a data-flickr-embed="true" data-footer="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/200778904@N03/albums/72177720317893793" title="SHRF SM Hanson Festival Jam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53790198929_b886e7506e_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="SHRF SM Hanson Festival Jam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Click the arrows on the left and right of the window above to see photos from the 38th SM Hanson Festival Jam.By COLETTE STRASNER Salina Post ContributorThursday, June 13 marked the 38th SM Hanson Festival Jam, which unfortunately had to end several hours ahead of schedule due to heavy rain in the area. Although the park will reopen today at 10 a.m., due to the nature of the event and the schedules of the performers, SM Hanson Festival Jam itself will not be rescheduled.READ MORE:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d8fdfd0e-0146-48a6-9e74-5abbab9d8c48">&nbsp;Salina Arts and Humanities — Smoky Hill River Festival reminders</a>Being in its 38th year, SM Hanson Festival Jam as well as the 48th Smoky Hill River Festival, have an important place in the lives of many area residents and their families. Festival attendee Ami Allison spoke of her family’s relationship with the event. “We buy festival shirts every year, all of the family pictures are in our festival shirts in the summertime," Allison said.&nbsp;The Allisons have been using the event as a family reunion for around fifty years, returning time and time again to enjoy the music and to look back fondly on years past.The SM Hanson Festival Jam certainly has a history of fond memories and great music, but the event is no stranger to severe weather putting a damper on things either. Salina Arts and Humanities Assistant Director Anna Pauscher Morawitz told Salina Post that the last time this had happened was as recently as 2021. Despite SM Hanson Festival Jam’s abrupt ending last night, the rest of the Smoky Hill River Festival will continue as scheduled throughout the rest of this weekend. Salina Post would like to thank the artists and event staff of the for all the work and passion put into this event.

📸 SM Hanson Festival Jam 2024

By RICK HELLMAN <a href="https://news.ku.edu/news/article/kevin-willmotts-new-film-shines-light-on-kc-civil-rights-figure">KU News Service</a>

For Academy Award-winning screenwriter Kevin Willmott, the Hollywood jobs are great and all. But the material closest to his heart inspires the stories he tells of overlooked historical events, and particularly local ones, that cast a revealing light on the problems of today.

The newest film written, produced and directed by the University of Kansas professor of film &amp; media studies is just such a story.

Premiering June 19 as part of the Juneteenth Film Festival at the Screenland Armour theatre in Kansas City, Missouri, “The Heroic True-Life Adventures of Alvin Brooks” is a documentary tribute to a Kansas City civil rights icon.

Brooks, still “sharp as a tack,” according to Willmott, at age 92, was one of Kansas City’s first Black police officers in the early 1950s. He went on to a storied career as the city’s first Black department director and creator of its human relations department, as founder of the&nbsp;<a href="https://adhocgroupkc.org/">Ad Hoc Group Against Crime</a>&nbsp;and its Crimestoppers anonymous tip line, as a City Council member, an educator and an all-around advocate for human and civil rights.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/cfc32e4d-411c-4a45-99d3-cd521e203724">Airborne electromagnetic survey of aquifer conditions planned in northwestern Kansas</a>

Willmott said he first got to know Brooks 20 years ago while filming&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RZsAxiscVZY">“From Separate to Equal: The Creation of Truman Medical Centers,”</a>&nbsp;about the racial history of Kansas City’s public hospital.

“We interviewed him for that,” Willmott said, “and he had so many great stories I was like, ‘Wow, there should be a documentary just about him!’ And so when I did a blurb for his&nbsp;<a href="https://publishing.andrewsmcmeel.com/book/binding-us-together/">autobiography</a>, it reminded me again of how much I really wanted to make that film. And so we finally did it.”

Willmott said Brooks makes for a great documentary subject.

“I'm not sure if it's because he was a policeman or what, but he can tell you the street addresses of where things happened 65 or 70 years ago,” Willmott said. “He tells a story in the film about an encounter he had with a white cop when he was a little kid, maybe 10 years old, and we go back to that location 82 years later, and he says, ‘This cop put a gun to my head and told me, “Run up this hill, (N-word), before I shoot you!”’

“I know I use the term 'living history' a lot, but he is truly living history.”

Willmott said it’s more important than ever, in light of political efforts to downplay and cover up the history of racism in America, to remind people of it.

“I have tried to tell stories that other people don't want to tell and that Hollywood definitely is not interested in,” Willmott said. “There's this whole thing right now that people don't want to hear the ugly part of the American story. They don’t want Alvin to tell what happened to him on that street corner 82 years ago. But to me, you can't get to the beautiful part of the American story without dealing with the ugly part.”

Willmott said the film offers viewers a ray of hope in dark times.

“We're so divided, and there's so much hate going on right now,” he said, “and who knows where it’s going to end up? But Alvin is a reminder of what we can be. He's a reminder of the best of us. Because I still hold on to Dr. King and what he believed in. That's the America I believe in. And it's hard to hold on to that these days. So the movie, in some ways, is a great reminder of ... who we really are, and who we can be.”

The early show of the June 19 premiere is sold out at press time, but&nbsp;<a href="https://www.screenland.com/movie/binding-us-together-2">tickets</a>&nbsp;remain for the 8:30 p.m. show. The film will also be&nbsp;<a href="https://freestatefestival.org/event/alvin-brooks/">presented</a>&nbsp;at 6 p.m. June 30, at the Lawrence Arts Center as part of the Free State Festival.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717945458645.jpeg" alt="Alvin Brooks, a Kansas City civil rights icon, is the subject of a new documentary that will air June 19 at the Screenland Armour theatre in Kansas City, Missouri, and June 30 at the Free State Festival. Image courtesy Kevin Willmott / Hodcarrier Films" />
 <figcaption>Alvin Brooks, a Kansas City civil rights icon, is the subject of a new documentary that will air June 19 at the Screenland Armour theatre in Kansas City, Missouri, and June 30 at the Free State Festival. Image courtesy Kevin Willmott / Hodcarrier Films</figcaption>
 </figure>By RICK HELLMAN <a href="https://news.ku.edu/news/article/kevin-willmotts-new-film-shines-light-on-kc-civil-rights-figure">KU News Service</a>For Academy Award-winning screenwriter Kevin Willmott, the Hollywood jobs are great and all. But the material closest to his heart inspires the stories he tells of overlooked historical events, and particularly local ones, that cast a revealing light on the problems of today.The newest film written, produced and directed by the University of Kansas professor of film &amp; media studies is just such a story.Premiering June 19 as part of the Juneteenth Film Festival at the Screenland Armour theatre in Kansas City, Missouri, “The Heroic True-Life Adventures of Alvin Brooks” is a documentary tribute to a Kansas City civil rights icon.Brooks, still “sharp as a tack,” according to Willmott, at age 92, was one of Kansas City’s first Black police officers in the early 1950s. He went on to a storied career as the city’s first Black department director and creator of its human relations department, as founder of the&nbsp;<a href="https://adhocgroupkc.org/">Ad Hoc Group Against Crime</a>&nbsp;and its Crimestoppers anonymous tip line, as a City Council member, an educator and an all-around advocate for human and civil rights.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717945424412.jpeg" alt="Kevin Willmott, professor of film &amp; media studies, speaking at an event at KU in 2021. Image courtesy KU Marketing" />
 <figcaption>Kevin Willmott, professor of film &amp; media studies, speaking at an event at KU in 2021. Image courtesy KU Marketing</figcaption>
 </figure>READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/cfc32e4d-411c-4a45-99d3-cd521e203724">Airborne electromagnetic survey of aquifer conditions planned in northwestern Kansas</a>Willmott said he first got to know Brooks 20 years ago while filming&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RZsAxiscVZY">“From Separate to Equal: The Creation of Truman Medical Centers,”</a>&nbsp;about the racial history of Kansas City’s public hospital.“We interviewed him for that,” Willmott said, “and he had so many great stories I was like, ‘Wow, there should be a documentary just about him!’ And so when I did a blurb for his&nbsp;<a href="https://publishing.andrewsmcmeel.com/book/binding-us-together/">autobiography</a>, it reminded me again of how much I really wanted to make that film. And so we finally did it.”Willmott said Brooks makes for a great documentary subject.“I'm not sure if it's because he was a policeman or what, but he can tell you the street addresses of where things happened 65 or 70 years ago,” Willmott said. “He tells a story in the film about an encounter he had with a white cop when he was a little kid, maybe 10 years old, and we go back to that location 82 years later, and he says, ‘This cop put a gun to my head and told me, “Run up this hill, (N-word), before I shoot you!”’“I know I use the term 'living history' a lot, but he is truly living history.”Willmott said it’s more important than ever, in light of political efforts to downplay and cover up the history of racism in America, to remind people of it.“I have tried to tell stories that other people don't want to tell and that Hollywood definitely is not interested in,” Willmott said. “There's this whole thing right now that people don't want to hear the ugly part of the American story. They don’t want Alvin to tell what happened to him on that street corner 82 years ago. But to me, you can't get to the beautiful part of the American story without dealing with the ugly part.”Willmott said the film offers viewers a ray of hope in dark times.“We're so divided, and there's so much hate going on right now,” he said, “and who knows where it’s going to end up? But Alvin is a reminder of what we can be. He's a reminder of the best of us. Because I still hold on to Dr. King and what he believed in. That's the America I believe in. And it's hard to hold on to that these days. So the movie, in some ways, is a great reminder of ... who we really are, and who we can be.”The early show of the June 19 premiere is sold out at press time, but&nbsp;<a href="https://www.screenland.com/movie/binding-us-together-2">tickets</a>&nbsp;remain for the 8:30 p.m. show. The film will also be&nbsp;<a href="https://freestatefestival.org/event/alvin-brooks/">presented</a>&nbsp;at 6 p.m. June 30, at the Lawrence Arts Center as part of the Free State Festival.

Kevin Willmott's new film shines light on KC civil rights figure

This Saturday, a familiar local band invited the public to participate in the music video for its newest hit, "Two Beers," which will be released this Friday.

Sunset Sinners plans to overtake The Well Lake beach spot at 2095 Water Well Road southeast of town with a production crew from Nashville alongside dozens of Salina citizens.

"The guys have a brand new song called 'Two Beers,' and it's coming out everywhere Friday, June 7," said Jesse Atwell, the Sunset Sinners' representative from Atwell Management. "As part of that celebration, they're kicking off a music video shoot on Saturday, June 8, in Salina, and it's open to the public completely free."

Atwell said that the event is for participants 21 years or older since Anheuser Busch sponsored the event.

"There will be beer available, but we're flying in a production crew from Nashville to shoot the video, and we just want as many Salina and Kansas-area folks invited and available to be in the shoot," Atwell said.

Stereophonic Films will be the Nashville-based production company shooting the music video.

Sunset Sinners set off away from Salina earlier this year, traveling to Yellow Dog Studios in Wimberley, Texas, to record their new material and to Texarkana, Texas, in April for the Sunset Solarbration Festival.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/c15e4d1d-90ea-4b39-a33a-4fb7dd7ea70b">The Sunset Sinners start 2024 'With a Bang!'</a>

The Sunset Sinners "Two Beers" Music Video Party will begin at 3 p.m., Saturday, June 8, at the Well Lake beach area. 

"Kickoff time is 3 p.m., but that's when we'll probably start rolling," Atwell said. "So if people would start showing up a little before, that would probably be best."

Atwell said the event is free to the public — the only requirements include bringing flip-flops, sunscreen, beach towels and being 21 or older. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717507318594.jpeg" alt="Sunset Sinners. Image courtesy Jesse Atwell" />
 <figcaption>Sunset Sinners. Image courtesy Jesse Atwell</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostThis Saturday, a familiar local band invited the public to participate in the music video for its newest hit, "Two Beers," which will be released this Friday.Sunset Sinners plans to overtake The Well Lake beach spot at 2095 Water Well Road southeast of town with a production crew from Nashville alongside dozens of Salina citizens.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d4548.491442761517!2d-97.58156092310071!3d38.772109154085406!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bcc7bab518153b%3A0xd99fbfe97577ed3a!2s2095%20E%20Water%20Well%20Rd%2C%20Salina%2C%20KS%2067401!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1717447605069!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>"The guys have a brand new song called 'Two Beers,' and it's coming out everywhere Friday, June 7," said Jesse Atwell, the Sunset Sinners' representative from Atwell Management. "As part of that celebration, they're kicking off a music video shoot on Saturday, June 8, in Salina, and it's open to the public completely free."Atwell said that the event is for participants 21 years or older since Anheuser Busch sponsored the event."There will be beer available, but we're flying in a production crew from Nashville to shoot the video, and we just want as many Salina and Kansas-area folks invited and available to be in the shoot," Atwell said.Stereophonic Films will be the Nashville-based production company shooting the music video.Sunset Sinners set off away from Salina earlier this year, traveling to Yellow Dog Studios in Wimberley, Texas, to record their new material and to Texarkana, Texas, in April for the Sunset Solarbration Festival.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/c15e4d1d-90ea-4b39-a33a-4fb7dd7ea70b">The Sunset Sinners start 2024 'With a Bang!'</a>The Sunset Sinners "Two Beers" Music Video Party will begin at 3 p.m., Saturday, June 8, at the Well Lake beach area. "Kickoff time is 3 p.m., but that's when we'll probably start rolling," Atwell said. "So if people would start showing up a little before, that would probably be best."Atwell said the event is free to the public — the only requirements include bringing flip-flops, sunscreen, beach towels and being 21 or older.

Sunset Sinners invites public to participate in new song 'Two Beers' music video

Once caution faded from the cold call, Vivette Ashen-Brenner let loose with a soliloquy of proud moments in her short career as a dancer, followed by 49-plus years as a dance instructor — her true calling.

Happiness flowed from the heart as Miss V fast-forwarded through a half century of dance in Salina.

Trickling tears were sensed as a sweet voice cracked over the phone while she weaved her wonderful life into a special story.

“My heart’s always been with the little kids,” said Vivette, who doubled for decades as a substitute school teacher.

In the closely knit Salina dance community, there’s little need to include her hyphenated last name.

“There are wonderful memories. It’s all been about the joy of dance, the love and design of it, the service, the children being so happy, and the look on their faces,” Vivette said. “That’s what it’s all been about.”&nbsp; &nbsp;

Mixed into her blessed life is a more private role as wife and partner to Sid Ashen-Brenner, a retired locksmith from the maintenance department at Salina Regional Health Center, mother to Lisette Ashen-Brenner, of Lenexa, and several “bonus daughters.”

Vivette calls herself Salina’s “grandmother of dance,” as founder of Vivette’s Dance Studio, currently at The Temple, 336 S. Santa Fe, one of five dance schools in town.

But after Sunday’s dance recital on the third floor of The Temple, the 4-foot, 8-inch dynamo announced her retirement, less than a month from her 72nd birthday.

“My family needs me at home,” she said. “Otherwise, I’d keep it going.”

When she learned of Vivette’s decision, Tamara Howe, owner and director of the Tamara Howe School of Dance, 124 S.Santa Fe, rallied the dance community to give the senior leader a proper sendoff.

“I think anyone who’s been in business for 49 years should be celebrated for the contributions she made to our community. That’s a long time to be enriching children’s lives,” said Howe, who moved to Salina with her husband, Steven Howe, 17 years ago.

“I worked with Peggy Simms and Vivette and enjoyed my time with them both,” Tamara Howe said. “When Peggy retired, she wanted a place for her students to go, and asked me to open a school. Vivette has impacted hundreds of lives through her teaching.”

She’s been devoted to dance since enrolling in a class at age 4, while growing up in Champaign, IL .

“I was a firefly in my very first recital,” Vivette recalled. “That was wonderful being on stage.”

Her goal is the same experience for every class member, serving as a springboard for all, no matter their pursuits in life.

Some went on to make careers of dance, but regardless of where they ended up, all were equipped with some priceless tools.

“You just feel so proud that they have become successful persons, that they took whatever lessons we taught them and used them in their life,” Vivette said. “If you can get on stage, do your dance, and smile, you can do anything in life. You can be a doctor, a lawyer, or anything you want to be, because you’ve already done the hard stuff, managed the scary. You’ve had to overcome fear and be confident.”

That recipe works for the preschoolers — Vivette’s favorite age group — into adulthood.

LaRana Skalicky can attest. The former Vivette student got a late start in the business, but shares her mentor’s devotion. She’s the executive director and a member of Denver-based Kim Robards Dance, meaning she still performs throughout Colorado, nationally and internationally, including New York City’s Lincoln Center.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717422656205.jpeg" alt="Vivette poses with her Sparklers dance class after a recent rehearsal. Left to right are Aspen Keck, Charleigh Simpson, Miss V, Adalynn Long, and Lilly Holloway. All of these students are age 6. Photo by Tim Unruh" />
 <figcaption>Vivette poses with her Sparklers dance class after a recent rehearsal. Left to right are Aspen Keck, Charleigh Simpson, Miss V, Adalynn Long, and Lilly Holloway. All of these students are age 6. Photo by Tim Unruh</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM UNRUHOnce caution faded from the cold call, Vivette Ashen-Brenner let loose with a soliloquy of proud moments in her short career as a dancer, followed by 49-plus years as a dance instructor — her true calling.Happiness flowed from the heart as Miss V fast-forwarded through a half century of dance in Salina.Trickling tears were sensed as a sweet voice cracked over the phone while she weaved her wonderful life into a special story.“My heart’s always been with the little kids,” said Vivette, who doubled for decades as a substitute school teacher.In the closely knit Salina dance community, there’s little need to include her hyphenated last name.“There are wonderful memories. It’s all been about the joy of dance, the love and design of it, the service, the children being so happy, and the look on their faces,” Vivette said. “That’s what it’s all been about.”&nbsp; &nbsp;Mixed into her blessed life is a more private role as wife and partner to Sid Ashen-Brenner, a retired locksmith from the maintenance department at Salina Regional Health Center, mother to Lisette Ashen-Brenner, of Lenexa, and several “bonus daughters.”Vivette calls herself Salina’s “grandmother of dance,” as founder of Vivette’s Dance Studio, currently at The Temple, 336 S. Santa Fe, one of five dance schools in town.But after Sunday’s dance recital on the third floor of The Temple, the 4-foot, 8-inch dynamo announced her retirement, less than a month from her 72nd birthday.“My family needs me at home,” she said. “Otherwise, I’d keep it going.”When she learned of Vivette’s decision, Tamara Howe, owner and director of the Tamara Howe School of Dance, 124 S.Santa Fe, rallied the dance community to give the senior leader a proper sendoff.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717422691656.jpeg" alt="Vivette’s Meteors dance class lines up “ready to work” along the ballet barres at her dance studio. Members are Gracie Wenger, Saya Sawyer, Imogen Eilts, Amara Keck, Ava Jones, and Kennadi Sheffield, all of Salina. Photo courtesy of Vivette Ashen-Brenner" />
 <figcaption>Vivette’s Meteors dance class lines up “ready to work” along the ballet barres at her dance studio. Members are Gracie Wenger, Saya Sawyer, Imogen Eilts, Amara Keck, Ava Jones, and Kennadi Sheffield, all of Salina. Photo courtesy of Vivette Ashen-Brenner</figcaption>
 </figure>“I think anyone who’s been in business for 49 years should be celebrated for the contributions she made to our community. That’s a long time to be enriching children’s lives,” said Howe, who moved to Salina with her husband, Steven Howe, 17 years ago.“I worked with Peggy Simms and Vivette and enjoyed my time with them both,” Tamara Howe said. “When Peggy retired, she wanted a place for her students to go, and asked me to open a school. Vivette has impacted hundreds of lives through her teaching.”She’s been devoted to dance since enrolling in a class at age 4, while growing up in Champaign, IL .“I was a firefly in my very first recital,” Vivette recalled. “That was wonderful being on stage.”Her goal is the same experience for every class member, serving as a springboard for all, no matter their pursuits in life.Some went on to make careers of dance, but regardless of where they ended up, all were equipped with some priceless tools.“You just feel so proud that they have become successful persons, that they took whatever lessons we taught them and used them in their life,” Vivette said. “If you can get on stage, do your dance, and smile, you can do anything in life. You can be a doctor, a lawyer, or anything you want to be, because you’ve already done the hard stuff, managed the scary. You’ve had to overcome fear and be confident.”That recipe works for the preschoolers — Vivette’s favorite age group — into adulthood.LaRana Skalicky can attest. The former Vivette student got a late start in the business, but shares her mentor’s devotion. She’s the executive director and a member of Denver-based Kim Robards Dance, meaning she still performs throughout Colorado, nationally and internationally, including New York City’s Lincoln Center.&nbsp;“Vivette’s love for dance was always evident. When she was teaching someone, you could just tell it was her passion,” Skalicky said. “She had a great ability to teach in a way to make everybody feel they could be a success.”Growing up in Salina, Skalicky first focused on music and played the cello. Her first dance class was at 18, late in her years at Salina Central High School, and there was one month to prepare for her debut performance.“I’m talking four weeks of dance classes — period — and I was concerned,” she said. “I really had no idea what I was doing. I was just trying to figure it out at the moment.”Vivette added some sage advice.“She said, ‘Don’t worry. Just fake it until you make it,’ ” Skalicky recalled.And she made it.Skalicky completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance degree and a minor in philosophy from Stephens College in Columbia, MO, landed a job with Kim Robards Dance, and is in her 35th year of performing, teaching and touring.READ MORE:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/97b89f6d-3517-4599-beca-4694d960bb10">&nbsp;1 Vision Aviation Salina Leases Hangar H626</a><h2>Humble beginnings of a dance legacy</h2>It all began in the basement of Vivette’s home.Dance is life for Skalicky, 58. Her dog is named “Pique,” which is a ballet dance term that means “stepping directly on the&nbsp;pointe&nbsp;of the working foot in any desired direction with the other foot raised in the air,” according to&nbsp;<a href="http://lbcc.edu/" target="_blank">lbcc.edu</a>&nbsp;(Long Beach City College website).Vivette teaches ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, bollywood, and belly dance.“I’m the last of the belly dance teachers in Salina, unless somebody new pops up,” she said.The daughter of Loren Pullum, a bank vice president, and Genevieve Pullum, “a French war bride,” Vivette grew up in Illinois, moved to Missouri, then Omaha.Her foray into the arts was as a violinist.“I played it very badly. I couldn’t reach an octave. My hands were too small,” Vivette said.Size was a hindrance as a dancer as well.“I took a summer class in Utah. They looked at me and said ‘You shouldn’t be here,’ because I was too short to be a ballerina. At that time, short male dancers were put into tap dancing,” she said. “Frankly, I wasn’t that good and my heart’s always been in teaching. I didn’t have star quality, but I could find it in others.”She completed a degree in elementary education and performing arts from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and began teaching as Crescent, Iowa, “a town with three bars, two gas stations and a school.”Vivette moved to Salina in 1975 and began working at the YWCA as program director.“I was in charge of anything that didn’t involve a ball or a swimming pool,” she said.Whenever an opportunity arose to teach, the vivacious Vivette volunteered and became very busy.“I started teaching tap, then ballet. Our first recital was at Coronado (Elementary) School in May of 1976. In addition to being program director, I taught all the dance classes for several years.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717422745171.jpeg" alt="As instructor Vivette Ashen-Brenner looks on, Charleigh Simpson works on a dance move. Photo by Tim Unruh" />
 <figcaption>As instructor Vivette Ashen-Brenner looks on, Charleigh Simpson works on a dance move. Photo by Tim Unruh</figcaption>
 </figure>Vivette began also teaching dance in the basement of her home, starting in 1978, and eventually launched her own studio full-time.“I kinda outgrew my basement, and moved to Ninth and Crawford,” she said. “I kept thinking ‘I have to expand.’ There was a little chiropractor building right around the corner from my house.”There was no vacancy because martial arts was being taught in part of the structure.“I stopped and asked ‘When the martial arts goes belly up, will you rent it to me?’ And they said, ‘Why would you think it will?’ ” Vivette said. “Two months later, they called and asked if I wanted to rent the building.”It was home to her studio for 10 years, and then Vivette built a building on Armory Road.“I sold it three years ago when I needed to downsize. The building&nbsp;brought joy to people, and now it’s continuing to do that by helping people put their lives back together,” Vivette said.She rented space in The Temple and relocated the studio there, where her students range from preschool-elementary to a class of three seasoned alumni.“It’s kind of a social time, for exercise,” Vivette said.At Vivette’s Dance Studio, no matter the size, shape or future, pupils learn that “Every dancer is a star.”Her age groups are aptly named — Starlets, ages 3 to 4; Sparklers, 5 to 6; Comets, 7 to 9; Meteors, 9 to 10; and Constellation, 10 to 13.“What can I say? When I pick a theme, I stick to it,” Vivette said.Every group is special for a specific reason, she said, such as the Meteors class of Gracie Wenger, Saya Sawyer, Imogen Eilts, Amara Keck, Ava Jones, and Kennedy Sheffield.“These girls come every week properly dressed and ready to work, and yet can be so giggly and silly,” Vivette said.She often branches out at The Temple in downtown Salina, and pitches in to prepare for other events.“Vivette’s just been so good to us,” said Mary Landes, executive director of the nonprofit Salina Innovation Foundation, where entrepreneurs get a hand up starting new businesses.“Everyone else is a startup,” Landes said. “Vivette calls herself a ‘wind down.’ ”The dance studio’s mirrors and wooden ballet barres will be donated and the foundation will look to repurpose the space.The little lady is credited for helping Salina’s dance community grow and improve, while enhancing many aspects of the town.“Vivette has always been very welcoming and kind. She’s an encourager of collaboration and support, and always a welcoming face in the dance community,” Tamara Howe said. “She’s done a lot over the years, and I would hate for Vivette to end quietly and not know what an impact she made with the community and all the students she taught.”One of the more challenging times in her career came towards the end, when the COVID pandemic changed life as most knew it.“The kids didn’t go anywhere after COVID. There was no Bible study, no story, time. The COVID kids were very, very different. They struggled,” Vivette said. “One little girl’s mom was right beside her, and within a few weeks, she could be close by, then on the edge of the stage. Two years later, mom was in the audience. I think coming to dance was scary.”Memories are golden to Vivette, harkening back to so many visits to nursing homes during the Halloween, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day seasons, also just before recitals. She relished joy on the faces of residents.“The ladies were just so happy to have us there. Once at Holiday Resort while the students were shaking hands with everybody, they told me a man began to talk, who hadn’t spoken in years. Something connected,” Vivette said. “I told the children, (residents) are going to hold your hand, and they might not let go. Dance is a performing art. It’s a way of touching hearts. It is a way for that quiet little kid to get a moment to shine. So many people walk up to me and say ‘My daughter loves dancing.’ ”There were many special times:<ul>
 <li>During difficult weeks while pregnant with Lisette, Vivette enlisted the skills of experienced students — Ellen Schwindt, now a composer, and the aforementioned LaRana Skalicky — to teach her classes, both in her basement and during an outreach program in Ellsworth.</li><li>Early on, while teaching at the Salina YWCA, Vivette caught a glimpse of someone in the hallway. </li>
 </ul>“I kept seeing this guy who was in karate class, a teenager. He was doing everything I was doing while I was teaching my kids, copying our exercises,” she said. “I said ‘come on in here,’ and I started working with him. I soon realized I didn’t know enough to teach someone with his raw talent.”His name was Brian Bender. Vivette asked her teacher from Creighton University, Valerie Roche, to evaluate Brian, and came to the same conclusion.“She had no funds for a scholarship, but gave him a place to live in the basement of the studio, and the ability to audit all classes,” Vivette said.Brian studied there and went on to perform with the Royal Canadian Ballet of Winnipeg, and later opened a training studio in Colorado. Bender, who recently died, would occasionally come home to Salina to visit family, and taught master classes for Vivette.To this day, she is proud that Bender’s mimicry took place “at the right place and the right time,” and helped influence a career.“Brian wouldn’t have realized his talent and passion and would not have achieved that part of his life,” she said. “I feel very fortunate that I was able to start him on his path. He went on to train a lot of dancers.”Remembering those days with so many youngsters, provides enduring pride.&nbsp;“I’ve touched a lot of lives in many ways,” Vivette said. “They didn’t all go on to be famous dancers, but they all went on to be wonderful people.”<h2>FACTOID:</h2>About Vivette’s married name. As told by her husband, Sid: Either during World War I or as a result of it, his ancestors opted to change the spelling of the family name “to make it appear less German,” Vivette said.

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