By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

Local Salina band, The Sunset Sinners, took to the road this year, with multiple live music festivals on the roster and a few new opportunities.

The four-piece music group also recently remastered two of their most popular songs, "Always Time For One More Beer" and "Friday Night," which were released last Friday.

"2024 has started off with a bang for us," said drummer Blake Blackim.

Outside of remastering a few of their hit songs, the band plans to develop new music this year at a well-known production site — Yellow Dog Studios.

The Sunset Sinners music is what the members call "whiskey barrel rock," a fusion of 70s and Southern Rock and Roll, with a mix of "Red Dirt Country."

Group members include Blackim on the drums, Tony Bowell as a guitarist and vocalist, Sean Herrington as a bass guitarist and vocalist, and Nick Schyler on lead guitar.

Two festivals they will perform at include the <a href="https://sunsetsolarbration.online/">Sunset Solarbration Festival</a> in Texarkana, Texas, in April and the Wild West Festival in Hays in July. Blackim said they also agreed to headline another unnamed festival later in the year.

Outside those live music settings, the band traveled to Texas this week to record new music at the well-known studio.

"We just got to Austin, where we'll be recording new Sinner tunes for upcoming singles and album at the famed Yellow Dog Studios that sits on a ranch in Wimberley, just outside of Austin," Blackim said. "We're excited as it's really the first time we've worked with a Grammy-winning producer to give us a fifth set of ears."

The group has worked with Grammy winners on their past music, but this will be the first time they work in-studio on new music.

Yellow Dog Studios has worked with famous, nationally-known artists like Garth Brooks and the rock group Green Day, among many others.

"We'll primarily work with Casey Johns and David Pearceful," Blackim said. "We're going in with at least four solid songs, and we'll see what happens. I'm sure the juices will flow, and we'll end up with more."

The Sunset Sinners will begin recording early Thursday morning and work until Saturday on their new material. 

"Some of our songs are written about people from back home — therefore, we thought it was best to get out of town to record them [the new songs]," Bowell said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706134565275.jpeg" alt="The Sunset Sinners, a local Salina "whiskey-barrel rock" group. Image courtesy The Sunset Sinners" />
 <figcaption>The Sunset Sinners, a local Salina "whiskey-barrel rock" group. Image courtesy The Sunset Sinners</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostLocal Salina band, The Sunset Sinners, took to the road this year, with multiple live music festivals on the roster and a few new opportunities.The four-piece music group also recently remastered two of their most popular songs, "Always Time For One More Beer" and "Friday Night," which were released last Friday."2024 has started off with a bang for us," said drummer Blake Blackim.Outside of remastering a few of their hit songs, the band plans to develop new music this year at a well-known production site — Yellow Dog Studios.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706134606797.jpeg" alt="Sunset Solarbration festival poster. Courtesy The Sunset Sinners" />
 <figcaption>Sunset Solarbration festival poster. Courtesy The Sunset Sinners</figcaption>
 </figure>The Sunset Sinners music is what the members call "whiskey barrel rock," a fusion of 70s and Southern Rock and Roll, with a mix of "Red Dirt Country."Group members include Blackim on the drums, Tony Bowell as a guitarist and vocalist, Sean Herrington as a bass guitarist and vocalist, and Nick Schyler on lead guitar.Two festivals they will perform at include the <a href="https://sunsetsolarbration.online/">Sunset Solarbration Festival</a> in Texarkana, Texas, in April and the Wild West Festival in Hays in July. Blackim said they also agreed to headline another unnamed festival later in the year.Outside those live music settings, the band traveled to Texas this week to record new music at the well-known studio."We just got to Austin, where we'll be recording new Sinner tunes for upcoming singles and album at the famed Yellow Dog Studios that sits on a ranch in Wimberley, just outside of Austin," Blackim said. "We're excited as it's really the first time we've worked with a Grammy-winning producer to give us a fifth set of ears."The group has worked with Grammy winners on their past music, but this will be the first time they work in-studio on new music.Yellow Dog Studios has worked with famous, nationally-known artists like Garth Brooks and the rock group Green Day, among many others.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706134668965.jpeg" alt="David Pearceful, a producer at Yellow Dog Studios in Wimberley, Texas, views the soundboard during a recording session. Image courtesy The Sunset Sinners " />
 <figcaption>David Pearceful, a producer at Yellow Dog Studios in Wimberley, Texas, views the soundboard during a recording session. Image courtesy The Sunset Sinners </figcaption>
 </figure>"We'll primarily work with Casey Johns and David Pearceful," Blackim said. "We're going in with at least four solid songs, and we'll see what happens. I'm sure the juices will flow, and we'll end up with more."The Sunset Sinners will begin recording early Thursday morning and work until Saturday on their new material. "Some of our songs are written about people from back home — therefore, we thought it was best to get out of town to record them [the new songs]," Bowell said.

The Sunset Sinners start 2024 'With a Bang!'

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Fort Hays State University&nbsp;director of Strategic Affiliation Peter Laipson.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WuGGgyH8FQI?si=d3J8je81N3PmbuvT" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Fort Hays State University&nbsp;director of Strategic Affiliation Peter Laipson.

🎤Forward Ever: FHSU director of Strategic Affiliation Peter Laipson

On Jan. 25 to Jan. 27, Salina Central High School Theatre will present the musical "Newsies!" by Alen Menken and Jack Feldman, based on Harvey Fierstein's book.

<a href="https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/salina-central-high-school/64ebbf70a6bf620e3f2c3848">Tickets are on sale online</a>&nbsp;and will also be available at performances. Ticket prices for the production are $7 for adults, $5 for students with ZERO credit service charges added to this price if using a credit card online to pre-purchase tickets. Running time is approximately 2 hours, which includes one 15-minute intermission between each act.

This production is being submitted to the Jester Awards at the Music Theatre of Wichita for adjudication.

The production&nbsp;is&nbsp;directed by Barbara Hilt, Central High School Theatre teacher and program director, who is&nbsp;assisted by Bill Weaver, Central High School Technical Director,&nbsp;Music Direction by Ryan Holmquist, Central High School Vocal Music Director and Pit Conduction by Lindsay Modin, Central High School Orchestra Director,&nbsp;and Choreography by&nbsp;Maggie Spicer-Brown&nbsp;of Theatre Salina Center for the Arts&nbsp;Education Instructor. Guillermo Rodriguez, Central High School Band Director, will serve as Sound Designer.

Based on the 1992 Disney film Newsies is the tale of newsboy Jack Kelly, who dreams of a better life far from the hardship of the streets. When Joseph Pulitzer and William&nbsp;Randolph Hearst raise distribution prices, Jack finds a cause to fight for and rallies his army of newsies to strike.

“Newsies!&nbsp;is one of my favorite musicals because it inspires such hope&nbsp;in what is possible when the underdogs of a story work together to achieve justice for everyone. Students at Salina Central have been putting their best efforts forward for the four years that I have been the theatre instructor and this show is no exception to the excellence that the community has come to expect from our productions. The music score by Alan Menken (who has written music for many Disney films) is all exciting and catchy tunes that you will be singing on your way out of the theater. When I started at Central four years ago, this was the last musical that I directed at my previous school and it created such a spirit of teamwork that I was excited to direct this production again. All of the staff have worked diligently to produce amazing dances, vocal work, scenery, costumes, and a truly outstanding orchestra. You won’t want to miss&nbsp;Newsies!” said Director Barbara Hilt.

JACK: Donovan Johnson KATHERINE: Grace Corman DAVEY: Wyatt Angell CRUTCHIE: Zander Flener LES: Sam Reynolds PULITZER: Gage Gibson MEDDA LARKIN: Michelle Simmons RACETRACK: Andrew Graber FINCH: Kaiden Comeau MUSH: Alyssa Maas JOJO: Mari Brown-Mereles ALBERT: Bishop Talbott SPECS: Gabriel Freeland HENRY: Kort Comeau ROMEO: Mac Sheforgen ELMER: Addilyn Jagodzinske BUTTONS: Katie Morgan SPLASHER: Brynn Shaft TOMMY BOY: Ellie Riekhof MIKE: Mackenzie Martinez IKE: Rocelyn Show HANNAH: Anna Kraft BUNSEN: Marcos Lira SEITZ: Kaiden Christmann DARCY: Seth Lepping BILL: Avery Jeakins OSCAR DELANCEY: Ben Campbell MORRIS DELANCEY: Avery Jeakins WIESEL: Hudson Duff SNYDER: Will Ebel NUNZIO: Joseph Zepeda GUARD: Ben Campbell SPOT CONLON: Kaiden Comeau SCABS: Lillie Crow, Anna Kraft, Madison Berndt NUNS: Lillie Crow, Sarah Day, Madison Berndt BOWERY BEAUTIES: Brynn Shaft, Mari Brown-Mereles, Katie Morgan, Rocelyn Show, Mackenzie Martinez, Addilyn Jagodzinske STAGE MANAGER: Alyx Parker MR. JACOBI: Bill Weaver WOMAN: Lillie Crow MAYOR: Joseph Zepeda GOVERNOR TEDDY ROOSEVELT: Ben Campbell NEWSIES:&nbsp;Alyxandria Aldrich, Tru Lawson, Lillian LaMarca, Angelica Dao, Daisey McWhorter, Lillian Crow, Ava Weaverling, Aerith Cox, Lexi Foos, Dayzie Frank, Alyx Parker, Avery Jeakins, Sarah Day, Anna Kraft, Seth Lepping, Madison Berndt

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705630310081.jpeg" alt="Salina Central High School Theatre students rehearse the musical "Newsies!" while preparing for opening night on Jan. 25. Photo courtesy Salina Central High School." />
 <figcaption>Salina Central High School Theatre students rehearse the musical "Newsies!" while preparing for opening night on Jan. 25. Photo courtesy Salina Central High School.</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTOn Jan. 25 to Jan. 27, Salina Central High School Theatre will present the musical "Newsies!" by Alen Menken and Jack Feldman, based on Harvey Fierstein's book.<a href="https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/salina-central-high-school/64ebbf70a6bf620e3f2c3848">Tickets are on sale online</a>&nbsp;and will also be available at performances. Ticket prices for the production are $7 for adults, $5 for students with ZERO credit service charges added to this price if using a credit card online to pre-purchase tickets. Running time is approximately 2 hours, which includes one 15-minute intermission between each act.This production is being submitted to the Jester Awards at the Music Theatre of Wichita for adjudication.The production&nbsp;is&nbsp;directed by Barbara Hilt, Central High School Theatre teacher and program director, who is&nbsp;assisted by Bill Weaver, Central High School Technical Director,&nbsp;Music Direction by Ryan Holmquist, Central High School Vocal Music Director and Pit Conduction by Lindsay Modin, Central High School Orchestra Director,&nbsp;and Choreography by&nbsp;Maggie Spicer-Brown&nbsp;of Theatre Salina Center for the Arts&nbsp;Education Instructor. Guillermo Rodriguez, Central High School Band Director, will serve as Sound Designer.<h2>Synopsis of the&nbsp;Musical</h2>Based on the 1992 Disney film Newsies is the tale of newsboy Jack Kelly, who dreams of a better life far from the hardship of the streets. When Joseph Pulitzer and William&nbsp;Randolph Hearst raise distribution prices, Jack finds a cause to fight for and rallies his army of newsies to strike.“Newsies!&nbsp;is one of my favorite musicals because it inspires such hope&nbsp;in what is possible when the underdogs of a story work together to achieve justice for everyone. Students at Salina Central have been putting their best efforts forward for the four years that I have been the theatre instructor and this show is no exception to the excellence that the community has come to expect from our productions. The music score by Alan Menken (who has written music for many Disney films) is all exciting and catchy tunes that you will be singing on your way out of the theater. When I started at Central four years ago, this was the last musical that I directed at my previous school and it created such a spirit of teamwork that I was excited to direct this production again. All of the staff have worked diligently to produce amazing dances, vocal work, scenery, costumes, and a truly outstanding orchestra. You won’t want to miss&nbsp;Newsies!” said Director Barbara Hilt.<h2>Cast</h2>JACK: Donovan Johnson KATHERINE: Grace Corman DAVEY: Wyatt Angell CRUTCHIE: Zander Flener LES: Sam Reynolds PULITZER: Gage Gibson MEDDA LARKIN: Michelle Simmons RACETRACK: Andrew Graber FINCH: Kaiden Comeau MUSH: Alyssa Maas JOJO: Mari Brown-Mereles ALBERT: Bishop Talbott SPECS: Gabriel Freeland HENRY: Kort Comeau ROMEO: Mac Sheforgen ELMER: Addilyn Jagodzinske BUTTONS: Katie Morgan SPLASHER: Brynn Shaft TOMMY BOY: Ellie Riekhof MIKE: Mackenzie Martinez IKE: Rocelyn Show HANNAH: Anna Kraft BUNSEN: Marcos Lira SEITZ: Kaiden Christmann DARCY: Seth Lepping BILL: Avery Jeakins OSCAR DELANCEY: Ben Campbell MORRIS DELANCEY: Avery Jeakins WIESEL: Hudson Duff SNYDER: Will Ebel NUNZIO: Joseph Zepeda GUARD: Ben Campbell SPOT CONLON: Kaiden Comeau SCABS: Lillie Crow, Anna Kraft, Madison Berndt NUNS: Lillie Crow, Sarah Day, Madison Berndt BOWERY BEAUTIES: Brynn Shaft, Mari Brown-Mereles, Katie Morgan, Rocelyn Show, Mackenzie Martinez, Addilyn Jagodzinske STAGE MANAGER: Alyx Parker MR. JACOBI: Bill Weaver WOMAN: Lillie Crow MAYOR: Joseph Zepeda GOVERNOR TEDDY ROOSEVELT: Ben Campbell NEWSIES:&nbsp;Alyxandria Aldrich, Tru Lawson, Lillian LaMarca, Angelica Dao, Daisey McWhorter, Lillian Crow, Ava Weaverling, Aerith Cox, Lexi Foos, Dayzie Frank, Alyx Parker, Avery Jeakins, Sarah Day, Anna Kraft, Seth Lepping, Madison Berndt

Salina Central Theatre presents, 'Newsies!' Jan. 25-27

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kan. 110 District Rep. Ken Rahjes.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: 110 District Rep. Ken Rahjes" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=br6zm-1541579-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kan. 110 District Rep. Ken Rahjes.

🎤Forward Ever: Kan. 110 District Rep. Ken Rahjes

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Country Stampede marketing director Shelby Ebert.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1vLx27MX6tM?si=lJFOVPeAtwVvITvh" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Country Stampede marketing director Shelby Ebert.

🎤 Forward Ever: Country Stampede marketing director Shelby Ebert

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

Fragments of colorful glass littered the paint-stained tables of the Salina Art Center Warehouse for the last few weeks while students chipped and shaped glass for mosaic designs.

Art Center Director of Education Darren Morawitz led a glass mosaic art class in December, encouraging students to learn from the unique art medium for their own practices.

"I think every medium benefits the next medium," Morawitz said. "If you're a drawer, you can apply drawing skills to the mosaic, and mosaic skills help you break things down into shapes and become a better drawer."

Morawitz said he enjoys practicing multiple mediums as an artist and found that it helped him continue improving his art.

"All those little intricate plays back and forth between mediums help you grow as a creative person," Morawitz said.

The Art Center Warehouse regularly hosts art classes, where local artists can learn or teach any medium from ceramics to collage.

Morawitz usually works with two-dimensional art mediums but enjoys learning and teaching various creative mediums. He began the class by introducing the mosaic design process on Dec. 7.

Glass mosaics are made by placing glass pieces onto another canvas and then using grout or paste medium to lock those pieces in place.

The class met once a week for three weeks, and on the second week, students and Morawitz were cutting out glass shapes and lining them up to the wooden canvas.

A student participating in the class, Kristy Yenkey, is a fabric artist and decided to sign up for the mosaic class to learn some new techniques.

Yenkey decided to make a mosaic piece from leftover scraps of cut glass, challenging herself to use the elements uniquely.

"I'm enjoying the design process the most," Yenkey said. "I had this all laid out last time, and it's a little different because it shifted in flight, so I'm having fun with it now."

Yenkey said she didn't mind that the pieces shifted since it brought a new perspective to her art, which she loves as part of the artistic process.

"When you try different things, it's really a source of happiness," Yenkey said.

Her pieces of glass clattered as she placed them on the board, preparing the final design for the grouting phase the following week. 

She encouraged other artists to try new types of art at any point in their careers and to participate in their local art communities.

"Sometimes, a blank canvas is difficult, but creating is a wonderful process," Yenkey said. "Just expose yourself to all sorts of avenues of art. It's not always an easy step, but maybe just allow yourself the freedom to pursue something different."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703111625610.jpeg" alt="Salina Art Center Director of Education chats with Barbara Henry, a student in his class, about her mosaic design on Thursday, Dec. 14, at the Salina Art Center Warehouse. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina Art Center Director of Education chats with Barbara Henry, a student in his class, about her mosaic design on Thursday, Dec. 14, at the Salina Art Center Warehouse. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostFragments of colorful glass littered the paint-stained tables of the Salina Art Center Warehouse for the last few weeks while students chipped and shaped glass for mosaic designs.Art Center Director of Education Darren Morawitz led a glass mosaic art class in December, encouraging students to learn from the unique art medium for their own practices."I think every medium benefits the next medium," Morawitz said. "If you're a drawer, you can apply drawing skills to the mosaic, and mosaic skills help you break things down into shapes and become a better drawer."Morawitz said he enjoys practicing multiple mediums as an artist and found that it helped him continue improving his art.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703111726756.jpeg" alt="Darren Morawitz, director of education at Salina Art Center, tells Barbara Henry about the need to space her pieces apart to allow space for the grout later on Thursday, Dec. 14, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Darren Morawitz, director of education at Salina Art Center, tells Barbara Henry about the need to space her pieces apart to allow space for the grout later on Thursday, Dec. 14, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"All those little intricate plays back and forth between mediums help you grow as a creative person," Morawitz said.The Art Center Warehouse regularly hosts art classes, where local artists can learn or teach any medium from ceramics to collage.Morawitz usually works with two-dimensional art mediums but enjoys learning and teaching various creative mediums. He began the class by introducing the mosaic design process on Dec. 7.Glass mosaics are made by placing glass pieces onto another canvas and then using grout or paste medium to lock those pieces in place.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703112023020.jpeg" alt="Darren Morawitz, the director of education at Salina Art Center, cracks apart two pieces of glass to shape it for his work on Thursday, Dec. 14, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Darren Morawitz, the director of education at Salina Art Center, cracks apart two pieces of glass to shape it for his work on Thursday, Dec. 14, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>The class met once a week for three weeks, and on the second week, students and Morawitz were cutting out glass shapes and lining them up to the wooden canvas.A student participating in the class, Kristy Yenkey, is a fabric artist and decided to sign up for the mosaic class to learn some new techniques.Yenkey decided to make a mosaic piece from leftover scraps of cut glass, challenging herself to use the elements uniquely."I'm enjoying the design process the most," Yenkey said. "I had this all laid out last time, and it's a little different because it shifted in flight, so I'm having fun with it now."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703111934102.jpeg" alt="Kristy Yenkey, a student of the Salina Art Center Warehouse mosaic class, places the pieces on the board, preparing the artwork for the grouting process on Thursday, Dec. 14, in the Salina Art Center Warehouse. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Kristy Yenkey, a student of the Salina Art Center Warehouse mosaic class, places the pieces on the board, preparing the artwork for the grouting process on Thursday, Dec. 14, in the Salina Art Center Warehouse. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Yenkey said she didn't mind that the pieces shifted since it brought a new perspective to her art, which she loves as part of the artistic process."When you try different things, it's really a source of happiness," Yenkey said.Her pieces of glass clattered as she placed them on the board, preparing the final design for the grouting phase the following week. She encouraged other artists to try new types of art at any point in their careers and to participate in their local art communities."Sometimes, a blank canvas is difficult, but creating is a wonderful process," Yenkey said. "Just expose yourself to all sorts of avenues of art. It's not always an easy step, but maybe just allow yourself the freedom to pursue something different."

Trying something new — Salina Art Center hosts glass mosaic class for first time

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with First Call for Help Executive Director Macey Pfeifer.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rXe7P6oCh-U?si=vVJzUELFTO6xIG4Y" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with First Call for Help Executive Director Macey Pfeifer.

🎤 Forward Ever: First Call for Help executive director Macey Pfeifer

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with President of the Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association, Ed Cross.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/scdN3HUVJPs?si=8edODo1oeAHLRwFy" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with President of the Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association, Ed Cross.

🎤 Forward Ever: KIOGA President Ed Cross

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with 2023 Motorcycle Cannonball winner Todd Cameron.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LGqQhSwz_Ag?si=_bHSPpRELuqeGxjv" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with 2023 Motorcycle Cannonball winner Todd Cameron.

🎤 Forward Ever: 2023 Motorcycle Cannonball winner Todd Cameron

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with General Counsel and Litigation Director for the Kansas Justice Institute Sam MacRoberts.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Vr66UuhSK_c?si=x_j-HL8mHdhOeDfi" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with General Counsel and Litigation Director for the Kansas Justice Institute Sam MacRoberts.

🎤 Forward Ever: Kansas Justice Institute litigation director Sam MacRoberts

T-Lo's Food &amp; Catering will host its first-ever Stand Up Comedy Night partnered with a late-night menu and alcohol specials on Saturday evening.

The late-night show begins at 10 p.m. with food and beverage specials beginning at 9 p.m.

Some of the menu items in the special include an onion ring basket, wings and a bucket of beer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699709227522.jpeg" alt="Stand Up Comedy Show at T-Lo's Food &amp; Catering Saturday, Nov. 11" />
 <figcaption>Stand Up Comedy Show at T-Lo's Food &amp; Catering Saturday, Nov. 11</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTT-Lo's Food &amp; Catering will host its first-ever Stand Up Comedy Night partnered with a late-night menu and alcohol specials on Saturday evening.The late-night show begins at 10 p.m. with food and beverage specials beginning at 9 p.m.Some of the menu items in the special include an onion ring basket, wings and a bucket of beer.Must be 21+ to enter.

T-Lo's will host first-ever Stand Up Comedy Night Saturday evening

The free Smoky Hill Museum Holiday Open House is coming early this year. It is the same day as the Salina Downtown Holiday Festival — Saturday, November 18, from 1 to 3 p.m. What a marvelous time it will be! 

Visit the Museum for holiday refreshments, a visit and photo with Pioneer Prairie Santa, fun, music, a special "Reading with Bristol" and more. Make a Christmas ornament, enjoy other make-and-take crafts, and enjoy the Museum! This festive, free Holiday Open House has something for the whole family.&nbsp;

Be sure to also stop in at the Museum Store for a special drawing and to shop for a wide variety of regional and Kansas products, local artwork and gifts for all ages.

The Smoky Hill Museum is a nationally accredited history museum in the heart of downtown Salina, Kansas. This FREE museum is open Tuesday through Friday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622862010436.jpeg" alt="The Smoky Hill Museum. Salina Post File Photo" />
 <figcaption>The Smoky Hill Museum. Salina Post File Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe free Smoky Hill Museum Holiday Open House is coming early this year. It is the same day as the Salina Downtown Holiday Festival — Saturday, November 18, from 1 to 3 p.m. What a marvelous time it will be! Visit the Museum for holiday refreshments, a visit and photo with Pioneer Prairie Santa, fun, music, a special "Reading with Bristol" and more. Make a Christmas ornament, enjoy other make-and-take crafts, and enjoy the Museum! This festive, free Holiday Open House has something for the whole family.&nbsp;Be sure to also stop in at the Museum Store for a special drawing and to shop for a wide variety of regional and Kansas products, local artwork and gifts for all ages.The Smoky Hill Museum is a nationally accredited history museum in the heart of downtown Salina, Kansas. This FREE museum is open Tuesday through Friday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Smoky Hill Museum's Holiday Open House — Saturday, Nov. 18

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Camber President Bobby Eklofe.

For reference, the list of gifts mentioned during the interview includes:&nbsp;

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6uRPueIKhvc?si=Rs55WchM2c_Cg94a" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Camber President Bobby Eklofe.For reference, the list of gifts mentioned during the interview includes:&nbsp;Rubix CubesFidgetsAge-appropriate booksBasketballsFootballsVolleyballsSoccer ballsSquishmellosStuffed animalsDollsAction figuresBoard gamesPlaying cardsUnoPhase 10Fidget spinnersBluetooth headphonesUnderwear and socks

🎤 Forward Ever: Camber President Bobby Eklofe

Director Maryam Keshavarz’s colorful, often hilarious autobiographical feature is an American assimilation story without the ponderous messaging and oppressive tone of many such films. Not that the family and romantic travails of twentysomething Leila (Layla Mohammadi in a confidently charismatic performance) lack meaningful drama. 

But Keshavarz maintains a light touch, even as she makes sharp points about the prejudice and alienation faced by Iranian-born families in America. 

The central dynamic is the frosty relationship between Leila and her career-driven mother, Shirin (Niousha Noor), who became the breadwinner of a large family (Leila and eight brothers) when she and her doctor husband emigrated to the U.S. and he wasn’t allowed to practice medicine. 

Shirin quickly learned English, earned her GED, and became a real estate agent, rapidly advancing in the profession and making Leila’s lack of ambition more egregious. 

Her lesbian relationships haven’t met mom’s approval, either, and when Leila gets pregnant from a one-night stand with Max (Tom Byrne), that seems unlikely to change. 

About halfway through the film, Keshavarz shifts focus from Leila to Shirin, revealing much of her history in flashbacks (including an arranged marriage to an older man when she was 13) and partially showing what shaped her perspective on her daughter’s uncomfortably “Western” ways. It helps develop sympathy for both sides of the mother-daughter conflict, and this open-hearted approach allows this film to be serious and light-hearted, sharply satiric but often rude, crude, and laugh-out-loud funny. 

It’s a movie with smart insights into cultural imperialism and generational discord—but can also conjure scenes like a joyful group dance to a cover of “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” or Leila defiantly sporting a “burka-kini.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Starring: Layla Mohammadi, Niousha Noor, Kamand Shafiesabet Focus Features Rated R for profanity and sexual content | 107 minutes In English and Persian with subtitles

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699550565135.jpeg" alt=""The Persian Version" movie poster. Courtesy Salina Art Center Cinema" />
 <figcaption>"The Persian Version" movie poster. Courtesy Salina Art Center Cinema</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedDirector Maryam Keshavarz’s colorful, often hilarious autobiographical feature is an American assimilation story without the ponderous messaging and oppressive tone of many such films. Not that the family and romantic travails of twentysomething Leila (Layla Mohammadi in a confidently charismatic performance) lack meaningful drama. But Keshavarz maintains a light touch, even as she makes sharp points about the prejudice and alienation faced by Iranian-born families in America. The central dynamic is the frosty relationship between Leila and her career-driven mother, Shirin (Niousha Noor), who became the breadwinner of a large family (Leila and eight brothers) when she and her doctor husband emigrated to the U.S. and he wasn’t allowed to practice medicine. Shirin quickly learned English, earned her GED, and became a real estate agent, rapidly advancing in the profession and making Leila’s lack of ambition more egregious. Her lesbian relationships haven’t met mom’s approval, either, and when Leila gets pregnant from a one-night stand with Max (Tom Byrne), that seems unlikely to change. About halfway through the film, Keshavarz shifts focus from Leila to Shirin, revealing much of her history in flashbacks (including an arranged marriage to an older man when she was 13) and partially showing what shaped her perspective on her daughter’s uncomfortably “Western” ways. It helps develop sympathy for both sides of the mother-daughter conflict, and this open-hearted approach allows this film to be serious and light-hearted, sharply satiric but often rude, crude, and laugh-out-loud funny. It’s a movie with smart insights into cultural imperialism and generational discord—but can also conjure scenes like a joyful group dance to a cover of “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” or Leila defiantly sporting a “burka-kini.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Starring: Layla Mohammadi, Niousha Noor, Kamand Shafiesabet Focus Features Rated R for profanity and sexual content | 107 minutes In English and Persian with subtitles

Salina Art Center Cinema presents "The Persian Version" November 10 - 15

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CQ70Q3uShRs?si=o-wQkZ6QLdeIZdU9" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann.

🎤 Forward Ever: Rep. Tracey Mann

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Entrepreneur and inventor Mike Farmer.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6_t2AHbfg80?si=hYdF3La0wE5SDbxQ" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Entrepreneur and inventor Mike Farmer.

🎤 Forward Ever: Entrepreneur and inventor Mike Farmer

In Salina, senior citizens continuously participate in community events, from sewing classes at the local Senior Center to spreading laughter through theater.

The Salina Senior Theatre Project, founded by director Bob Sears, began in 2021 after Sears approached a creative writing group at the Salina Senior Center for some script ideas.

There, one of the writers in the group, Carol Bragg, met with Sears and joined the project the next day after meeting with Salina Senior Center director Rosie Walter.

"I've met some wonderful people that I would never have had the opportunity to meet," Bragg said. 

Read More: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/4bb7eafc-a7c1-4e93-910d-c309efa98397">Two local food industry workers turned owners — T-Lo's on Santa Fe</a>

Sears said from a young age, older adults positively impacted his life, often providing support and encouragement through his early career.

While studying at Barton County Community College, during Sears' first year, he took a directing class requiring students to pick and direct a show.

"My first show was a seniors show called 'Spirit,'" Sears said. "It was about a restaurant and people who enjoy holding seances, throwing pizza parties, doing anything against the rules and driving the management crazy."

The show focused on comedy, which Sears said most of the shows he directs usually have a humorous twist. The project's upcoming production, "Feeble Fables," continues this trend.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/dc1ae9e4-490c-46e4-bdda-d68f588ebd45">📸 Flashback Friday: Salina Post - Smoky Hill Museum - Vol. 11</a>

Sears described the show as a twist on classic fairy tales like "The Three Little Pigs" and "Red Riding Hood," where the adventures put characters into new, comedic situations.

One of the production's actresses, Taffy Speilman, who will portray the Straw Pig, described acting with the Senior Theatre Project as a release for her and the audience.

"We have so much fun together," Speilman said. "(It's great) when you can sit there and laugh and have fun."

Bragg agreed with this sentiment and said one of her favorite aspects is causing joy for her audience.

"I like making people laugh," Bragg said. "If I can make somebody forget about their troubles for a half hour to 45 minutes, then I feel fulfilled."

Bragg will portray the grandmother during the "Little Red Riding Hood" tale in "Feeble Fables."

For actress Terry Levin, who will portray Little Red Riding Hood in the production, the Senior Theatre Project impacted her personally, allowing her to follow a long-waiting passion for the stage.

Levin said in high school, she often acted in school plays and even studied theatre in college before switching to social services. She described some of her best memories from school happened in connection with the stage.

"I'm 61, and I didn't think I'd ever act again or do anything like that — so this was just a real treat," Levin said.

The Salina Senior Theatre Project will perform "Feeble Fables" by Bob Naquin at 7 p.m. on Oct. 27 and 28 at the Salvation Army, 1137 N. Santa Fe Avenue.

Tickets for the show will go on sale Monday, Oct. 16, starting at $8 for advance tickets purchased at the Salina Senior Center. Tickets will cost $10 at the door on show nights.

Wolf/Fire Chief/Building Inspector-Dennis Kresin **

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697223103845.jpeg" alt="Salina Senior Theatre Project's production "Feeble Fables" by Bob Naquin. Courtesy Senior Theatre Project" />
 <figcaption>Salina Senior Theatre Project's production "Feeble Fables" by Bob Naquin. Courtesy Senior Theatre Project</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostIn Salina, senior citizens continuously participate in community events, from sewing classes at the local Senior Center to spreading laughter through theater.The Salina Senior Theatre Project, founded by director Bob Sears, began in 2021 after Sears approached a creative writing group at the Salina Senior Center for some script ideas.There, one of the writers in the group, Carol Bragg, met with Sears and joined the project the next day after meeting with Salina Senior Center director Rosie Walter."I've met some wonderful people that I would never have had the opportunity to meet," Bragg said. Read More: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/4bb7eafc-a7c1-4e93-910d-c309efa98397">Two local food industry workers turned owners — T-Lo's on Santa Fe</a>Sears said from a young age, older adults positively impacted his life, often providing support and encouragement through his early career.While studying at Barton County Community College, during Sears' first year, he took a directing class requiring students to pick and direct a show."My first show was a seniors show called 'Spirit,'" Sears said. "It was about a restaurant and people who enjoy holding seances, throwing pizza parties, doing anything against the rules and driving the management crazy."The show focused on comedy, which Sears said most of the shows he directs usually have a humorous twist. The project's upcoming production, "Feeble Fables," continues this trend.Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/dc1ae9e4-490c-46e4-bdda-d68f588ebd45">📸 Flashback Friday: Salina Post - Smoky Hill Museum - Vol. 11</a>Sears described the show as a twist on classic fairy tales like "The Three Little Pigs" and "Red Riding Hood," where the adventures put characters into new, comedic situations.One of the production's actresses, Taffy Speilman, who will portray the Straw Pig, described acting with the Senior Theatre Project as a release for her and the audience."We have so much fun together," Speilman said. "(It's great) when you can sit there and laugh and have fun."Bragg agreed with this sentiment and said one of her favorite aspects is causing joy for her audience."I like making people laugh," Bragg said. "If I can make somebody forget about their troubles for a half hour to 45 minutes, then I feel fulfilled."Bragg will portray the grandmother during the "Little Red Riding Hood" tale in "Feeble Fables."For actress Terry Levin, who will portray Little Red Riding Hood in the production, the Senior Theatre Project impacted her personally, allowing her to follow a long-waiting passion for the stage.Levin said in high school, she often acted in school plays and even studied theatre in college before switching to social services. She described some of her best memories from school happened in connection with the stage."I'm 61, and I didn't think I'd ever act again or do anything like that — so this was just a real treat," Levin said.The Salina Senior Theatre Project will perform "Feeble Fables" by Bob Naquin at 7 p.m. on Oct. 27 and 28 at the Salvation Army, 1137 N. Santa Fe Avenue.Tickets for the show will go on sale Monday, Oct. 16, starting at $8 for advance tickets purchased at the Salina Senior Center. Tickets will cost $10 at the door on show nights.<h2>The Cast</h2>** SSTP DebutNarrator#1-Jennifer Sutton **Red Riding Hood- Terri Levin **Big Bad Wolf- Wally Hitchcock **Butterfly-Marion DuerNana/Giant-Carol BraggNarrator#2- Bob HunterStrawPig/Narrator#3-Taffy SpeilmanStick Pig-Laurie Moravec **Brick Pig /Narrator#4- Kala HurdeWolf/Fire Chief/Building Inspector-Dennis Kresin **Jackie-Connie Gibson **Horse-Don B **Jackie's Mom-Matilda Stauffer**Maggie-Tammy Conner**Ant- Mary Yarnall**Grasshopper-Shirley Toney**

Salina Senior Theatre Project to present "Feeble Fables" this weekend

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with the Director of Special Education at the&nbsp;Northwest Kansas Educational Service Center&nbsp;Kathy Kersenbrock-Ostmeyer.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CF8zD4rgubo?si=JvBi20A34kYIoW6T" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with the Director of Special Education at the&nbsp;Northwest Kansas Educational Service Center&nbsp;Kathy Kersenbrock-Ostmeyer.

🎤 Forward Ever: Director of Special Education at NKESC Kathy Kersenbrock-Ostmeyer

Salina Downtown, Inc. is excited to host its Annual SaWINEa Wine Walk this Saturday, Oct. 21, featuring local Kansas wineries and breweries. 

From 4:00-8:00 p.m., The SaWINEa Downtown Wine Walk invites you to explore the many flavors of five Kansas wineries (and three local breweries) as you experience the friendly ambience that our downtown boutiques and shops have to offer.

The Blades will grace us with their musical talent at Campbell Plaza.

April Rickman, event planner for Salina Downtown Inc. said she is excited to reintroduce this event to the Salina community.&nbsp;

“I am elated to be able to continue to give new life to this event for Salina Downtown. We (Salina Downtown Inc.) are committed to creating and bringing unique, engaging, and fun programming to Downtown Salina,” Rickman said.&nbsp;

VIP tickets will be $60 and come with a commemorative stainless steel wine tumbler, a souvenir wine cork stopper, a bottle opener, early entry to the walk, as well as other perks including a VIP only happy hour at Prickly Pear with a complementary drink and a special drink at The Cellar Wine &amp; Whiskey Bar, which is NEW in downtown since the 2022 Wine Walk. 

General Admission tickets will be $35 and will come with a wine tasting cup. A limited number of tickets are available. Tickets are sold online at <a href="https://www.salinadowntown.org/events-info">https://www.salinadowntown.org/events-info</a>

Each participant will plan their downtown adventure, stopping at participating downtown businesses while tasting a “sampling” of Kansas wines and brews. 

There will also be mocktail and snack stops posted along the route to cleanse your palate!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694026140173.jpeg" alt="SaWINEa Downtown is planned for Oct. 21 in Downtown Salina. Image Courtesy Salina Downtown Inc.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>SaWINEa Downtown is planned for Oct. 21 in Downtown Salina. Image Courtesy Salina Downtown Inc.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Downtown, Inc. is excited to host its Annual SaWINEa Wine Walk this Saturday, Oct. 21, featuring local Kansas wineries and breweries. From 4:00-8:00 p.m., The SaWINEa Downtown Wine Walk invites you to explore the many flavors of five Kansas wineries (and three local breweries) as you experience the friendly ambience that our downtown boutiques and shops have to offer. The Blades will grace us with their musical talent at Campbell Plaza.April Rickman, event planner for Salina Downtown Inc. said she is excited to reintroduce this event to the Salina community.&nbsp;“I am elated to be able to continue to give new life to this event for Salina Downtown. We (Salina Downtown Inc.) are committed to creating and bringing unique, engaging, and fun programming to Downtown Salina,” Rickman said.&nbsp;There will be two levels of ticket. VIP tickets will be $60 and come with a commemorative stainless steel wine tumbler, a souvenir wine cork stopper, a bottle opener, early entry to the walk, as well as other perks including a VIP only happy hour at Prickly Pear with a complementary drink and a special drink at The Cellar Wine &amp; Whiskey Bar, which is NEW in downtown since the 2022 Wine Walk. General Admission tickets will be $35 and will come with a wine tasting cup. A limited number of tickets are available. Tickets are sold online at <a href="https://www.salinadowntown.org/events-info">https://www.salinadowntown.org/events-info</a>Each participant will plan their downtown adventure, stopping at participating downtown businesses while tasting a “sampling” of Kansas wines and brews. There will also be mocktail and snack stops posted along the route to cleanse your palate!

SaWINEa Downtown Wine Walk is this Saturday

Salina Public Library wasn't the first to auction a Sandzén painting in Central Kansas — multiple school districts did it before them.

The Salina Public Library owned two Birger Sandzén paintings for most of the last century, but on Saturday, they auctioned them to private sellers through the auctioneer Dirk Soulis.

The paintings included two of Sandzén's earlier works, "Scene Along the Smoky," 1921, and "Golden Aspens," 1929.

According to SPL head of marketing Katie Zey, the library received both paintings through donations. The Salina Art Association donated "Golden Aspens" to the library in 1963 when they dispanded, and a community-led fundraiser helped land "Scene Along the Smoky" in the library's halls in 1926.

The facilitator of the fundraiser, J. L. Brady, editor of the Salina Daily Union in the 1920s, gained community support to purchase the painting over time, with a past library board member finishing the payments on July 8, 1926.

SPL was not the first nor the last to acquire a collection of Sandzén paintings — according to Ron Michael, the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery director in Lindsborg, multiple schools picked up Sandzén's work early in the 19th century.

"The first major exhibition was at the McPherson public schools in 1911," Michael said. "That kind of precipitated a lot more exhibitions, and hence, starting art collections throughout the state."

Two examples include Hoisington Public Schools USD 431 and Lyons Public Schools USD 405.

According to Hoisington USD 431 superintendent Patrick Crowdis, the school district acquired some of Sandzén's in the late 1950s or early 1960s donated to the school by the classes of 1946 and 1953.

As the years went on, the paintings sat in the well-lit district office of USD 431, and over time, the district began to question if keeping the illustrations would be best for the works of fine art.

The district appraised the three works of Sandzén's in 2007 and auctioned them in 2010 for more than $170,000. The school district ordered replicas of the auctioned paintings, and the proceeds then went to fund student scholarships.

"At least 26 scholarships that we've given out since then, so I mean, I feel like it was a worthy cause," Crowdis said. "We still display the replicas of the paintings that we had, and I feel like the paintings can be better-taken care of by whomever ended up purchasing them."

Lyons USD 405 sold one Sandzén painting in their collection in 2016, "Between Showers in Lindsborg," 1935, accruing more than $60,000 to begin an endowment scholarship for art students.

"The school board thought, 'Hey, we can have what appears to be an original Sandzén hanging up in our office, but at the same time, we could have an endowed scholarship fund that will last forever,'" said Lyons USD 405 superintendent Bill Day. "So now that's a perpetual scholarship for up to two graduates each year going into some art field, and we and the art field can be music, music, education, graphic arts, graphic design."

Other schools in central Kansas have sold Sandzén paintings in the last two decades to fund various scholarships and put the fine art pieces into better-equipped hands.

SPL's decision to sell the paintings mirrored these fellow public entities, aiming to find better care for the pieces alongside funding some possible future projects.

"Our board felt as though we were not equipped to properly care for and house the Sandzén paintings," Zey said. "The decision was made with what they felt was best for both the paintings and the library." 

Zey said that until the library secures the funds from the auction, the board will not decide how to utilize the cash for future projects.

The Salina Public Library&nbsp;board holds open meetings on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 a.m. in the Prescott Room. Zey said the board welcomes public involvement in the library's actions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634353835637.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostSalina Public Library wasn't the first to auction a Sandzén painting in Central Kansas — multiple school districts did it before them.The Salina Public Library owned two Birger Sandzén paintings for most of the last century, but on Saturday, they auctioned them to private sellers through the auctioneer Dirk Soulis.The paintings included two of Sandzén's earlier works, "Scene Along the Smoky," 1921, and "Golden Aspens," 1929.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697752768000.jpeg" alt=""Scene Along the Smoky" by Birger Sandzén, 1921." />
 <figcaption>"Scene Along the Smoky" by Birger Sandzén, 1921.</figcaption>
 </figure>According to SPL head of marketing Katie Zey, the library received both paintings through donations. The Salina Art Association donated "Golden Aspens" to the library in 1963 when they dispanded, and a community-led fundraiser helped land "Scene Along the Smoky" in the library's halls in 1926.The facilitator of the fundraiser, J. L. Brady, editor of the Salina Daily Union in the 1920s, gained community support to purchase the painting over time, with a past library board member finishing the payments on July 8, 1926.SPL was not the first nor the last to acquire a collection of Sandzén paintings — according to Ron Michael, the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery director in Lindsborg, multiple schools picked up Sandzén's work early in the 19th century."The first major exhibition was at the McPherson public schools in 1911," Michael said. "That kind of precipitated a lot more exhibitions, and hence, starting art collections throughout the state."Two examples include Hoisington Public Schools USD 431 and Lyons Public Schools USD 405.According to Hoisington USD 431 superintendent Patrick Crowdis, the school district acquired some of Sandzén's in the late 1950s or early 1960s donated to the school by the classes of 1946 and 1953.As the years went on, the paintings sat in the well-lit district office of USD 431, and over time, the district began to question if keeping the illustrations would be best for the works of fine art.The district appraised the three works of Sandzén's in 2007 and auctioned them in 2010 for more than $170,000. The school district ordered replicas of the auctioned paintings, and the proceeds then went to fund student scholarships."At least 26 scholarships that we've given out since then, so I mean, I feel like it was a worthy cause," Crowdis said. "We still display the replicas of the paintings that we had, and I feel like the paintings can be better-taken care of by whomever ended up purchasing them."Lyons USD 405 sold one Sandzén painting in their collection in 2016, "Between Showers in Lindsborg," 1935, accruing more than $60,000 to begin an endowment scholarship for art students.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697752907220.jpeg" alt=""Between Showers in Lindsborg" by Birger Sandzén, 1935." />
 <figcaption>"Between Showers in Lindsborg" by Birger Sandzén, 1935.</figcaption>
 </figure>"The school board thought, 'Hey, we can have what appears to be an original Sandzén hanging up in our office, but at the same time, we could have an endowed scholarship fund that will last forever,'" said Lyons USD 405 superintendent Bill Day. "So now that's a perpetual scholarship for up to two graduates each year going into some art field, and we and the art field can be music, music, education, graphic arts, graphic design."Other schools in central Kansas have sold Sandzén paintings in the last two decades to fund various scholarships and put the fine art pieces into better-equipped hands.SPL's decision to sell the paintings mirrored these fellow public entities, aiming to find better care for the pieces alongside funding some possible future projects."Our board felt as though we were not equipped to properly care for and house the Sandzén paintings," Zey said. "The decision was made with what they felt was best for both the paintings and the library." Zey said that until the library secures the funds from the auction, the board will not decide how to utilize the cash for future projects.The Salina Public Library&nbsp;board holds open meetings on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 a.m. in the Prescott Room. Zey said the board welcomes public involvement in the library's actions.

Sandzén paintings across Kansas — SPL was not first to sell famous works of art

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Historian and author Leo Oliva about the history of railroads in Kansas and his upcoming presentations.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Kansas railroad historian Leo Oliva" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=gsjwt-14cf260-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Historian and author Leo Oliva about the history of railroads in Kansas and his upcoming presentations.

Forward Ever: Kansas railroad historian Leo Oliva

At The Salina Art Center Friday evening, artists from around the world gripped the mic with paint-stained hands as they answered audience questions about their various works of art.

For most of the week, this group of artists painted new murals around town as part of BOOM 2023. During the panel discussion, the muralists said that each mural includes a touch of their own personalities.

One Baltimore, MD-based artist, Chris Stain, puts a piece of his childhood in each composition he paints.

"My parents worked in factories, so the whole neighborhood that I grew up in was it just that," Stain said. "It comes out in my work when I see images of working-class people. That's what I want to be. I want to work hard like that. I want to put that kind of effort into the work I do for the unions that are working and, more so, for my work and my personal work."

<a href="https://www.boomsalina.art/">BOOM! Salina 2023</a>&nbsp;featured seven artists worldwide, alongside Martha Cooper, a New York City-based photographer.&nbsp;

At the artists' panel discussion on Friday, the artists described&nbsp;the various modes that brought them to street art, varying from boredom to a need for artistic expression.

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/73aa23bf-9301-41b5-b02d-65aa26ba5bdb">READ: 2023 Salina Street Art &amp; Mural Festival</a>

Add Fuel, or Portuguese artist Diogo Machado, began graffitiing after seeing photocopies of graffiti work from Germany and the United States, but eventually left street art behind for a career in graphic design.

"I have always been drawing, and I love drawing, and at one point, I got an invitation from my city," Machado said. "I had this big project that I was involved in, and it had a mural, and I thought this could translate into the work I was doing at the time as a designer and illustrator."

Machado said he grew up surrounded by Portuguese tiles and likes to use them in his work, utilizing stencils to spray paint patterns across large outdoor walls.

He then adds a new aspect, making the tiles look painted on paper and ripped to show the building underneath.

Pat Perry, an artist from Michigan, painted a mural with multiple paintings on Third and Ash Streets, wanting to leave a moment in time immortalized on the one-story wall.&nbsp;

"What do we want to leave to show people as a little reminder of what was going on at this moment?" Perry said. "I try to pick things that are from the Midwest. I also live in the Midwest, and I think there are many different motifs, imagery, and things that are missing. From the bigger lexicon of American Art. And so, I tried to pick those things and be thoughtful about the pictures."

The artists of BOOM! Salina 2023 included PichiAvo from Spain, Chris Stain from Baltimore, MD, Pat Perry from Detroit, MI, Add Fuel or Diogo Machado from Portugal, El Mac or Miles MacGregor from L.A., Mad C or Claudio Walde from Germany and Queen Adrea or Andrea von Bujdoss from New York City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696947079800.jpeg" alt="Portugal-based artist Add Fuel, or Diogo Machado works on his mural at the KU School of Medicine on Saturday, Oct. 7, downtown. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Portugal-based artist Add Fuel, or Diogo Machado works on his mural at the KU School of Medicine on Saturday, Oct. 7, downtown. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostAt The Salina Art Center Friday evening, artists from around the world gripped the mic with paint-stained hands as they answered audience questions about their various works of art.For most of the week, this group of artists painted new murals around town as part of BOOM 2023. During the panel discussion, the muralists said that each mural includes a touch of their own personalities.One Baltimore, MD-based artist, Chris Stain, puts a piece of his childhood in each composition he paints.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696946617237.jpeg" alt="A new mural was added by artist Chris Stain during the 2023 BOOM! Salina event on Saturday, Oct. 7, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>A new mural was added by artist Chris Stain during the 2023 BOOM! Salina event on Saturday, Oct. 7, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"My parents worked in factories, so the whole neighborhood that I grew up in was it just that," Stain said. "It comes out in my work when I see images of working-class people. That's what I want to be. I want to work hard like that. I want to put that kind of effort into the work I do for the unions that are working and, more so, for my work and my personal work."<a href="https://www.boomsalina.art/">BOOM! Salina 2023</a>&nbsp;featured seven artists worldwide, alongside Martha Cooper, a New York City-based photographer.&nbsp;At the artists' panel discussion on Friday, the artists described&nbsp;the various modes that brought them to street art, varying from boredom to a need for artistic expression.<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/73aa23bf-9301-41b5-b02d-65aa26ba5bdb">READ: 2023 Salina Street Art &amp; Mural Festival</a>Add Fuel, or Portuguese artist Diogo Machado, began graffitiing after seeing photocopies of graffiti work from Germany and the United States, but eventually left street art behind for a career in graphic design.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696946896267.jpeg" alt="Portugal-based artist Add Fuel or Diogo Machado tells the audience a bit about his experience and the inspirations behind his mural work on Friday, Oct. 6, at the Salina Art Center downtown. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Portugal-based artist Add Fuel or Diogo Machado tells the audience a bit about his experience and the inspirations behind his mural work on Friday, Oct. 6, at the Salina Art Center downtown. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"I have always been drawing, and I love drawing, and at one point, I got an invitation from my city," Machado said. "I had this big project that I was involved in, and it had a mural, and I thought this could translate into the work I was doing at the time as a designer and illustrator."Machado said he grew up surrounded by Portuguese tiles and likes to use them in his work, utilizing stencils to spray paint patterns across large outdoor walls.He then adds a new aspect, making the tiles look painted on paper and ripped to show the building underneath.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696951636718.jpeg" alt="A new mural was added by artist Pat Perry during the 2023 BOOM! Salina event on Saturday, Oct. 7, in Salina.&nbsp;Photo by Nate King" />
 <figcaption>A new mural was added by artist Pat Perry during the 2023 BOOM! Salina event on Saturday, Oct. 7, in Salina.&nbsp;Photo by Nate King</figcaption>
 </figure>Pat Perry, an artist from Michigan, painted a mural with multiple paintings on Third and Ash Streets, wanting to leave a moment in time immortalized on the one-story wall.&nbsp;"What do we want to leave to show people as a little reminder of what was going on at this moment?" Perry said. "I try to pick things that are from the Midwest. I also live in the Midwest, and I think there are many different motifs, imagery, and things that are missing. From the bigger lexicon of American Art. And so, I tried to pick those things and be thoughtful about the pictures."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696946998136.jpeg" alt="Detroit-based artist Pat Perry answers an audience question on Friday, Oct. 6, during the BOOM! 2023 Artist Panel Discussion at the Salina Art Center downtown. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Detroit-based artist Pat Perry answers an audience question on Friday, Oct. 6, during the BOOM! 2023 Artist Panel Discussion at the Salina Art Center downtown. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>The artists of BOOM! Salina 2023 included PichiAvo from Spain, Chris Stain from Baltimore, MD, Pat Perry from Detroit, MI, Add Fuel or Diogo Machado from Portugal, El Mac or Miles MacGregor from L.A., Mad C or Claudio Walde from Germany and Queen Adrea or Andrea von Bujdoss from New York City.

A look past the artwork — BOOM! 2023 Artist Panel Discussion 

Are you ready to embark on a journey through time and history? This Saturday, an iconic piece of railroad heritage, the&nbsp;1919 Baldwin 4-6-2 “Pacific” type locomotive, Santa Fe #3415&nbsp;steam engine, will make its final run before undergoing an FRA mandatory overhaul. 

The Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad invites you to participate in this historic moment as we bid farewell to this magnificent&nbsp;locomotive.

The Santa Fe #3415 steam engine is not just any train — it's a true masterpiece of engineering and a symbol of a bygone era. This locomotive has been a beloved part of our railroad's history and a cherished sight for both locals and visitors alike.

With its sleek design and powerful steam-driven heart, the Santa Fe #3415 has captured the imagination of train enthusiasts for generations. But what makes this locomotive truly special is the stories it carries. 

It has traversed countless miles of track, carrying passengers and freight, witnessing the changing landscapes and cultures along the way. Its whistle has echoed through valleys, its wheels have rolled over bridges, and its smokestack has billowed steam into the sky. 

Riding aboard the Santa Fe 3415 is like stepping into a living time capsule, offering a unique glimpse into the past.

The 1919 Baldwin 4-6-2 “Pacific” type locomotive, Santa Fe #3415, was moved to its present location at the Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad yard in April 1996 from the city park in Abilene where it had spent the last 40 years. 

Locomotive #3415 was built in 1919 and was in regular service in Santa Fe’s Argentine District out of Kansas City. The railroad donated the locomotive to the city of Abilene in 1954, and it was placed in the city park.

In 1996, the city donated it to the Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad. It was moved from the park and placed on the railroad’s tracks near the depot, where it sat on display until restoration was started in 2005. 

This is the only operating steam locomotive in the state and is one of only three operational, former Santa Fe steam locomotives. The steamer has operated about once a month on special weekends on our five-mile-long track, a former Rock Island Railroad branch, through the Smoky Hill River Valley between Abilene and Enterprise, Kansas.

On Friday, Sept. 15, 30 photographers from across the nation visited Abilene for a photography ride along the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad as a fundraiser by Dak Dillon, owner of St. Louis-based&nbsp;Hub &amp; Spoke, a boutique marketing and creative agency.

"I would call the photoshoot a kind of an extension of what the steam locomotive is for the railroad and really for the entire tourism industry in Abilene because it is its symbol. It's a symbol everywhere," said Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad volunteer Steve Smethers.&nbsp;

The event raised $10,000 toward the locomotive's complete remodel. Smethers said this would fund the first step of the $600,000 remodel.

"I think that really illustrates just the power in the draw of the steam locomotive," Smethers said.

The Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad plans to host photography events in the future, even while Santa Fe #3415 undergoes its FRA mandatory overhaul.

This means it will be out of commission for the foreseeable torture until funding is available to complete this massive undertaking,&nbsp;which is essential maintenance to ensure its continued safe operation. 

This last run is your final opportunity to experience the magic of this historic steam engine before it temporarily retires from the tracks.

Passengers last chance before the overhaul will be on Oct. 7 at 10 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

You may buy tickets at the railroad’s <a href="https://asvrr.org/abilene-attractions/">website here.&nbsp;</a>

Whether you're a devoted train enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and nostalgic adventure, this is an experience you won't want to miss. Gather your friends and family, and join us for a journey through the picturesque Smoky Valley, where you'll be treated to stunning views of the Kansas countryside from the comfort of our vintage passenger cars.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696618448075.jpeg" alt="Santa Fe #3415 on Friday, Sept. 15, during the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad photography train event. Photo courtesy Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad staff Mila Miller" />
 <figcaption>Santa Fe #3415 on Friday, Sept. 15, during the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad photography train event. Photo courtesy Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad staff Mila Miller</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTAre you ready to embark on a journey through time and history? This Saturday, an iconic piece of railroad heritage, the&nbsp;1919 Baldwin 4-6-2 “Pacific” type locomotive, Santa Fe #3415&nbsp;steam engine, will make its final run before undergoing an FRA mandatory overhaul. The Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad invites you to participate in this historic moment as we bid farewell to this magnificent&nbsp;locomotive.<h2>Why is the Santa Fe #3415 so Special?</h2>The Santa Fe #3415 steam engine is not just any train — it's a true masterpiece of engineering and a symbol of a bygone era. This locomotive has been a beloved part of our railroad's history and a cherished sight for both locals and visitors alike.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696618516574.jpeg" alt="Santa Fe #3415 on Friday, Sept. 15, during the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad photography train event. Photo courtesy Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad staff Mila Miller" />
 <figcaption>Santa Fe #3415 on Friday, Sept. 15, during the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad photography train event. Photo courtesy Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad staff Mila Miller</figcaption>
 </figure>With its sleek design and powerful steam-driven heart, the Santa Fe #3415 has captured the imagination of train enthusiasts for generations. But what makes this locomotive truly special is the stories it carries. It has traversed countless miles of track, carrying passengers and freight, witnessing the changing landscapes and cultures along the way. Its whistle has echoed through valleys, its wheels have rolled over bridges, and its smokestack has billowed steam into the sky. Riding aboard the Santa Fe 3415 is like stepping into a living time capsule, offering a unique glimpse into the past.<h2>History</h2>The 1919 Baldwin 4-6-2 “Pacific” type locomotive, Santa Fe #3415, was moved to its present location at the Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad yard in April 1996 from the city park in Abilene where it had spent the last 40 years. Locomotive #3415 was built in 1919 and was in regular service in Santa Fe’s Argentine District out of Kansas City. The railroad donated the locomotive to the city of Abilene in 1954, and it was placed in the city park.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696618554941.jpeg" alt="Ross Boelling, general manager of the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad, stands with an oil lamp next to Santa Fe #3415 on Friday, Sept. 15, during the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad photography train event. Photo courtesy Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad staff Mila Miller" />
 <figcaption>Ross Boelling, general manager of the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad, stands with an oil lamp next to Santa Fe #3415 on Friday, Sept. 15, during the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad photography train event. Photo courtesy Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad staff Mila Miller</figcaption>
 </figure>In 1996, the city donated it to the Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad. It was moved from the park and placed on the railroad’s tracks near the depot, where it sat on display until restoration was started in 2005. This is the only operating steam locomotive in the state and is one of only three operational, former Santa Fe steam locomotives. The steamer has operated about once a month on special weekends on our five-mile-long track, a former Rock Island Railroad branch, through the Smoky Hill River Valley between Abilene and Enterprise, Kansas.<h2>Your Last Chance to Ride</h2>On Friday, Sept. 15, 30 photographers from across the nation visited Abilene for a photography ride along the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad as a fundraiser by Dak Dillon, owner of St. Louis-based&nbsp;Hub &amp; Spoke, a boutique marketing and creative agency."I would call the photoshoot a kind of an extension of what the steam locomotive is for the railroad and really for the entire tourism industry in Abilene because it is its symbol. It's a symbol everywhere," said Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad volunteer Steve Smethers.&nbsp;The event raised $10,000 toward the locomotive's complete remodel. Smethers said this would fund the first step of the $600,000 remodel."I think that really illustrates just the power in the draw of the steam locomotive," Smethers said.The Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad plans to host photography events in the future, even while Santa Fe #3415 undergoes its FRA mandatory overhaul.This means it will be out of commission for the foreseeable torture until funding is available to complete this massive undertaking,&nbsp;which is essential maintenance to ensure its continued safe operation. This last run is your final opportunity to experience the magic of this historic steam engine before it temporarily retires from the tracks.Passengers last chance before the overhaul will be on Oct. 7 at 10 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.You may buy tickets at the railroad’s <a href="https://asvrr.org/abilene-attractions/">website here.&nbsp;</a>Whether you're a devoted train enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and nostalgic adventure, this is an experience you won't want to miss. Gather your friends and family, and join us for a journey through the picturesque Smoky Valley, where you'll be treated to stunning views of the Kansas countryside from the comfort of our vintage passenger cars.

All Aboard for a Grand Farewell Ride: Santa Fe #3415's Last Run Before Overhaul

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with small game coordinator at Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Kent Fricke, about the decision to cancel fall turkey hunting season in Kansas.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/W4KBYcSHtVo?si=VbaOHkwfjpLKQDE1" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with small game coordinator at Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Kent Fricke, about the decision to cancel fall turkey hunting season in Kansas.

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