On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Former 'Agriculture today' host Eric Atkinson about the celebration of 100 years of broadcasting at K-State.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/omYhIikaKGw?si=whYVGc_QQkq7COcY" 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;Former 'Agriculture today' host Eric Atkinson about the celebration of 100 years of broadcasting at K-State.

🎤Forward Ever: Former 'Agriculture today' host Eric Atkinson

<a href="https://salinatheatre.com/">Theatre Salina</a> warned the public via a social media post on Thursday about the growing threat of ticket scams targeting their productions, including the theatre's upcoming highly anticipated Disney's The Little Mermaid.

Theater Salina emphasized the importance of purchasing tickets exclusively through their official website or their authorized ticketing provider, etix.

Tickets can be purchased online at <a href="http://salinatheatre.com">salinatheatre.com</a>&nbsp;or by calling the theatre's box office at&nbsp;(785) 827-3033. Box office hours are&nbsp;

11:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The theater highlighted that any tickets acquired through sources other than their designated ticket portal could be invalid. This warning extends to individuals who may appear to be selling tickets on social media platforms, even in cases where the seller claims they are unable to attend the show and are looking to transfer their tickets.

Theatre Salina said it strongly advises potential ticket buyers to protect themselves by verifying the legitimacy of the ticket purchase process. The theater encourages anyone with doubts to contact their box office directly for confirmation before making any transactions.

For secure ticket purchases, patrons are directed to use the link provided on the Theatre Salina website: <a href="http://salinatheatre.com/tickets">salinatheatre.com/tickets</a>. Additionally, the box office can be contacted at 785-827-3033 for further assistance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724343428283.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy Theatre Salina" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy Theatre Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POST<a href="https://salinatheatre.com/">Theatre Salina</a> warned the public via a social media post on Thursday about the growing threat of ticket scams targeting their productions, including the theatre's upcoming highly anticipated Disney's The Little Mermaid.Theater Salina emphasized the importance of purchasing tickets exclusively through their official website or their authorized ticketing provider, etix.Tickets can be purchased online at <a href="http://salinatheatre.com">salinatheatre.com</a>&nbsp;or by calling the theatre's box office at&nbsp;(785) 827-3033. Box office hours are&nbsp;

11:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.The theater highlighted that any tickets acquired through sources other than their designated ticket portal could be invalid. This warning extends to individuals who may appear to be selling tickets on social media platforms, even in cases where the seller claims they are unable to attend the show and are looking to transfer their tickets.Theatre Salina said it strongly advises potential ticket buyers to protect themselves by verifying the legitimacy of the ticket purchase process. The theater encourages anyone with doubts to contact their box office directly for confirmation before making any transactions.For secure ticket purchases, patrons are directed to use the link provided on the Theatre Salina website: <a href="http://salinatheatre.com/tickets">salinatheatre.com/tickets</a>. Additionally, the box office can be contacted at 785-827-3033 for further assistance.

Theatre Salina warns of ticketing scams — reminds patrons 'only purchase through etix'

A chamber music concert featuring the Triptych Trio of Evgeny Zvonnikov on violin, Sarah Rushing on piano, and James Barger on saxophone will take place at the Sandzén Gallery on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. The group will be performing a variety of selections.

Evgeny Zvonnikov&nbsp;joined the music faculty of West Texas A&amp;M University and Harrington String Quartet in Canyon, Texas, in 2017. He holds degrees from Saint-Petersburg Conservatory in Russia and Wichita State University. His career as a violinist has taken him to Singapore, Europe, Russia, and across the United States. He has also taught a wide variety of master classes around the world including Malaysia, Brazil, Hong Kong, Mexico, as well as the United States. Additionally, he is a founding member of Orfeo Piano Trio together with cellist Leonid Shukaev and pianist Julie Bees.

Dr. Sarah Rushing, NCTM is Assistant Professor of Piano at West Texas A&amp;M University, where she teaches applied piano, class piano, and piano pedagogy. Rushing’s commitment to teaching is evidenced through her years of experience teaching private and group piano classes in the community and the university settings in Louisiana, New York, Colorado, Virginia, and Texas.

Before moving to Texas in 2020, Rushing was Instructor of Piano at Virginia Tech. She holds degrees from the University of Colorado in Boulder, Ithaca College, and Louisiana State University. When Rushing is not teaching or performing, she enjoys the great outdoors, hiking, and running, which has taken her to numerous summits in the US and abroad.

James Barger is an active performer of solo and chamber music throughout the US and is in&nbsp;demand as a classical and jazz saxophonist and educator. He holds degrees from Texas Tech University and West Texas A&amp;M University. In 2016 he joined the faculty of Texas A&amp;M University where he serves as the Associate Professor of Saxophone, teaching courses in applied saxophone and jazz improvisation and directing jazz ensembles.

Barger is passionate about chamber music and is a founding member and the soprano saxophone chair in the acclaimed Mirasol Quartet. This group has performed throughout the country and has participated in several national competitions.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724270980850.jpeg" alt="Tryptych Trio from left to right are Evgeny Zvonnikov, Sarah Rushing, and James Barger. Image Courtesy&nbsp;The Sandzén Gallery" />
 <figcaption>Tryptych Trio from left to right are Evgeny Zvonnikov, Sarah Rushing, and James Barger. Image Courtesy&nbsp;The Sandzén Gallery</figcaption>
 </figure>The Sandzén GalleryA chamber music concert featuring the Triptych Trio of Evgeny Zvonnikov on violin, Sarah Rushing on piano, and James Barger on saxophone will take place at the Sandzén Gallery on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. The group will be performing a variety of selections.Evgeny Zvonnikov&nbsp;joined the music faculty of West Texas A&amp;M University and Harrington String Quartet in Canyon, Texas, in 2017. He holds degrees from Saint-Petersburg Conservatory in Russia and Wichita State University. His career as a violinist has taken him to Singapore, Europe, Russia, and across the United States. He has also taught a wide variety of master classes around the world including Malaysia, Brazil, Hong Kong, Mexico, as well as the United States. Additionally, he is a founding member of Orfeo Piano Trio together with cellist Leonid Shukaev and pianist Julie Bees.Dr. Sarah Rushing, NCTM is Assistant Professor of Piano at West Texas A&amp;M University, where she teaches applied piano, class piano, and piano pedagogy. Rushing’s commitment to teaching is evidenced through her years of experience teaching private and group piano classes in the community and the university settings in Louisiana, New York, Colorado, Virginia, and Texas.Before moving to Texas in 2020, Rushing was Instructor of Piano at Virginia Tech. She holds degrees from the University of Colorado in Boulder, Ithaca College, and Louisiana State University. When Rushing is not teaching or performing, she enjoys the great outdoors, hiking, and running, which has taken her to numerous summits in the US and abroad.James Barger is an active performer of solo and chamber music throughout the US and is in&nbsp;demand as a classical and jazz saxophonist and educator. He holds degrees from Texas Tech University and West Texas A&amp;M University. In 2016 he joined the faculty of Texas A&amp;M University where he serves as the Associate Professor of Saxophone, teaching courses in applied saxophone and jazz improvisation and directing jazz ensembles.Barger is passionate about chamber music and is a founding member and the soprano saxophone chair in the acclaimed Mirasol Quartet. This group has performed throughout the country and has participated in several national competitions.The Sandzén Gallery is located at 401 North First Street in Lindsborg. There is no charge for the concert, however, donations are appreciated.&nbsp;

Sandzén Gallery chamber music concert scheduled for Sept. 8

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Classic Albums Live (CAL) performance of Pink Floyd's The Wall has been rescheduled from October 18, 2024, to January 24, 2025. All tickets previously purchased will be automatically transferred to the new date.

Classic Albums Live is renowned for recreating iconic rock albums live on stage, meticulously reproducing them note for note and cut for cut. "CAL are curators," said founder Craig Martin, emphasizing that the group's mission is to honor these historic records and their fans by delivering performances that sound exactly like the original albums.

To achieve this, CAL features an exceptional ensemble of performers, each with a history of collaborating with music industry icons both in the studio and on stage. Martin described CAL as a "modern-day orchestra," highlighting the musicians' ability to execute with precision to authentically recreate the music without the distractions of costumes or impersonations.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2023, CAL has expanded its repertoire to over 45 albums and performs more than 200 shows annually across North America. Each show offers a faithful rendition of the chosen album in the first half, followed by a dynamic set of the artist's greatest hits. "We pay homage to the album in the first half, then let loose with the hits in the second," Martin explained, noting that CAL's dedication to authenticity resonates deeply with audiences.

Get ready for an unforgettable musical experience as Classic Albums Live brings Pink Floyd's iconic album "The Wall" to life at the Stiefel Theatre. The performance is set for Friday, October 18 at 7:30 p.m., with tickets starting at just $29. 

Tickets will go on sale on Friday, June 28 at 10 a.m., available for purchase online or at the Stiefel Theatre box office. For more information, contact the box office at 785-827-1998, open Monday through Friday from noon to 4:30 p.m. Tickets may also be purchased online by going to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stiefeltheatre.org/">https://www.stiefeltheatre.org/</a>

Classic Albums Live (CAL) is renowned for its meticulous recreations of classic rock albums, performed live on stage with precision and authenticity. Founder Craig Martin describes CAL as "curators" of historic albums that have stood the test of time. 

“We honor these records and their fans by delivering performances that sound exactly like the originals,” Martin said. 

The ensemble features top-tier musicians who have performed on elite stages and collaborated with industry icons. Martin emphasizes that CAL is “a modern-day orchestra,” focusing solely on the music without any distracting costumes or impersonations.

Celebrating 20 Years of Classic Albums Live

In 2023, Classic Albums Live celebrated its 20th anniversary. The group has expanded its repertoire to include over 45 different records, delivering more than 200 performances annually across North America. Each show offers two distinct experiences: a faithful rendition of the chosen record in the first half, followed by a dynamic set featuring the artist’s greatest hits. 

“We pay homage to the album in the first half, then let loose with the hits in the second,” Martin said.

Released on November 30, 1979, Pink Floyd's "The Wall" is a monumental work of art that has only grown in significance over the past four decades. Described as both a news report and a social media feed, "The Wall" explores themes that are as relevant today as they were at the time of its release. Classic Albums Live is committed to bringing this album to life with all its sonic luxury and emotional depth.

“To me, 'The Wall' is more important than anything you’ll ever find in a museum. We know how to perform this album—all the sounds and voices—it all comes alive on our stage. The musicians all realize how important this album is. We all do,” Martin said.

Event:&nbsp;Classic Albums Live - Pink Floyd's "The Wall". Date:&nbsp;Friday, October 18. Time:&nbsp;7:30 PM. Tickets:&nbsp;Starting at $29. On-Sale Date:&nbsp;Friday, June 28 at 10 AM. Purchase Tickets:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stiefeltheatre.org/">Online&nbsp;</a>or at the Stiefel Theatre box office. Contact:&nbsp;Stiefel Theatre box office at 785-827-1998, M-F noon-4:30 p.m.

Don’t miss this chance to experience Pink Floyd's "The Wall" performed live in its entirety. Secure your tickets early and prepare for a night of musical brilliance at the Stiefel Theatre.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719421007093.jpeg" alt="Classic Albums LIVE.&nbsp;Image Courtesy Stiefel Theatre" />
 <figcaption>Classic Albums LIVE.&nbsp;Image Courtesy Stiefel Theatre</figcaption>
 </figure>Stiefel TheatreDue to unforeseen circumstances, the Classic Albums Live (CAL) performance of Pink Floyd's The Wall has been rescheduled from October 18, 2024, to January 24, 2025. All tickets previously purchased will be automatically transferred to the new date.The performance will begin at 7:30 p.m.Classic Albums Live is renowned for recreating iconic rock albums live on stage, meticulously reproducing them note for note and cut for cut. "CAL are curators," said founder Craig Martin, emphasizing that the group's mission is to honor these historic records and their fans by delivering performances that sound exactly like the original albums.To achieve this, CAL features an exceptional ensemble of performers, each with a history of collaborating with music industry icons both in the studio and on stage. Martin described CAL as a "modern-day orchestra," highlighting the musicians' ability to execute with precision to authentically recreate the music without the distractions of costumes or impersonations.Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2023, CAL has expanded its repertoire to over 45 albums and performs more than 200 shows annually across North America. Each show offers a faithful rendition of the chosen album in the first half, followed by a dynamic set of the artist's greatest hits. "We pay homage to the album in the first half, then let loose with the hits in the second," Martin explained, noting that CAL's dedication to authenticity resonates deeply with audiences.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699384815089.png" alt="Stiefel Theatre Salina Post Photo" />
 <figcaption>Stiefel Theatre Salina Post Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Stiefel Theatre&nbsp;Get ready for an unforgettable musical experience as Classic Albums Live brings Pink Floyd's iconic album "The Wall" to life at the Stiefel Theatre. The performance is set for Friday, October 18 at 7:30 p.m., with tickets starting at just $29. Tickets will go on sale on Friday, June 28 at 10 a.m., available for purchase online or at the Stiefel Theatre box office. For more information, contact the box office at 785-827-1998, open Monday through Friday from noon to 4:30 p.m. Tickets may also be purchased online by going to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stiefeltheatre.org/">https://www.stiefeltheatre.org/</a><h2>About Classic Albums Live</h2>Classic Albums Live (CAL) is renowned for its meticulous recreations of classic rock albums, performed live on stage with precision and authenticity. Founder Craig Martin describes CAL as "curators" of historic albums that have stood the test of time. “We honor these records and their fans by delivering performances that sound exactly like the originals,” Martin said. The ensemble features top-tier musicians who have performed on elite stages and collaborated with industry icons. Martin emphasizes that CAL is “a modern-day orchestra,” focusing solely on the music without any distracting costumes or impersonations.<h2>Celebrating 20 Years of Classic Albums Live</h2>In 2023, Classic Albums Live celebrated its 20th anniversary. The group has expanded its repertoire to include over 45 different records, delivering more than 200 performances annually across North America. Each show offers two distinct experiences: a faithful rendition of the chosen record in the first half, followed by a dynamic set featuring the artist’s greatest hits. “We pay homage to the album in the first half, then let loose with the hits in the second,” Martin said.<h2>A Tribute to "The Wall"</h2>Released on November 30, 1979, Pink Floyd's "The Wall" is a monumental work of art that has only grown in significance over the past four decades. Described as both a news report and a social media feed, "The Wall" explores themes that are as relevant today as they were at the time of its release. Classic Albums Live is committed to bringing this album to life with all its sonic luxury and emotional depth.“To me, 'The Wall' is more important than anything you’ll ever find in a museum. We know how to perform this album—all the sounds and voices—it all comes alive on our stage. The musicians all realize how important this album is. We all do,” Martin said.<h2>Event Details</h2>Event:&nbsp;Classic Albums Live - Pink Floyd's "The Wall". Date:&nbsp;Friday, October 18. Time:&nbsp;7:30 PM. Tickets:&nbsp;Starting at $29. On-Sale Date:&nbsp;Friday, June 28 at 10 AM. Purchase Tickets:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stiefeltheatre.org/">Online&nbsp;</a>or at the Stiefel Theatre box office. Contact:&nbsp;Stiefel Theatre box office at 785-827-1998, M-F noon-4:30 p.m.Don’t miss this chance to experience Pink Floyd's "The Wall" performed live in its entirety. Secure your tickets early and prepare for a night of musical brilliance at the Stiefel Theatre.

UPDATED: Date changed for Classic Albums Live's Pink Floyd 'The Wall' concert 

Salina Public Schools—Troupe 639&nbsp; Troupe 639 attended the International Thespian Festival this summer in June, presenting their chapter select production representing the state of Kansas for the fourth consecutive year. This year’s presentation was *The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee*. To earn this honor, students competed at the Kansas Thespian Festival in January 2024, securing first place in the one-act competition.

Students also qualified for eight different Thespys (individual events competition) from either the Kansas Thespian Festival or the virtual qualifier hosted by the Educational Theatre Association or Texas Thespians. At the International Thespian Festival, students were adjudicated by a panel of three judges. Salina Central had two Thespy Category Winners this year, meaning they received a perfect score from all three judges, the highest honor in the Thespy program at the International Thespian Festival.

Thespy Winners with a perfect score included Benjamin Campbell in Monologue Performance and Addilyn Jagodzinske in Costume Construction.

Superior Scores, reflecting a superior score average from judges, were achieved by Zander Flener in Solo Musical and Mac Sheforgen, Jaxson Rutz, Kaiden Comeau, Andrew Graber, Donovan Johnson, and Zander Flener in Group Musical.

Excellent Scores, reflecting an excellent score average from judges, were earned by Michelle Simmons in Solo Musical, Wyatt Angell in Solo Musical, Anna Kraft in Monologue Performance, and Kaiden Comeau in Solo Musical.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723830124997.jpeg" alt="Central High School Theatre Thespian Troupe 639 earns superior honors at the International Thespian Festival 2024. Photo Courtesy Barb Hilt " />
 <figcaption>Central High School Theatre Thespian Troupe 639 earns superior honors at the International Thespian Festival 2024. Photo Courtesy Barb Hilt </figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Public Schools—Troupe 639&nbsp; Troupe 639 attended the International Thespian Festival this summer in June, presenting their chapter select production representing the state of Kansas for the fourth consecutive year. This year’s presentation was *The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee*. To earn this honor, students competed at the Kansas Thespian Festival in January 2024, securing first place in the one-act competition.Students also qualified for eight different Thespys (individual events competition) from either the Kansas Thespian Festival or the virtual qualifier hosted by the Educational Theatre Association or Texas Thespians. At the International Thespian Festival, students were adjudicated by a panel of three judges. Salina Central had two Thespy Category Winners this year, meaning they received a perfect score from all three judges, the highest honor in the Thespy program at the International Thespian Festival.Thespy Winners with a perfect score included Benjamin Campbell in Monologue Performance and Addilyn Jagodzinske in Costume Construction.Superior Scores, reflecting a superior score average from judges, were achieved by Zander Flener in Solo Musical and Mac Sheforgen, Jaxson Rutz, Kaiden Comeau, Andrew Graber, Donovan Johnson, and Zander Flener in Group Musical.Excellent Scores, reflecting an excellent score average from judges, were earned by Michelle Simmons in Solo Musical, Wyatt Angell in Solo Musical, Anna Kraft in Monologue Performance, and Kaiden Comeau in Solo Musical.

Central High School Theatre Thespian Troupe 639 earns superior honors at International Thespian Festival 2024

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Fort Hays State University Head Football Coach Chris Brown.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8I8bLNFUsJ0?si=KiXW7XsN_QGroZK6" 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 Fort Hays State University Head Football Coach Chris Brown.

🎤Forward Ever: FHSU Football Coach Chris Brown

Kick off the Salina Symphony season while enjoying the beauty of autumn with Chamber Music in the Courtyard Sat., Sept. 28, at 4 p.m. at the Homewood Suites in Downtown Salina.

The Salina Symphony flute quartet will present Mozart’s Flute Quartet in D major featuring Lillian Oeding, principal flute. The string quartet, featuring Maestro Segal himself, will perform one of Mozart’s most beloved chamber works, Eine Kleine Nachtmusik.

In addition, the woodwind quintet will present The Melting Pot by Alyssa Morris, K-State associate professor of oboe, with movements titled “Bubbly,” “Sweet” and “Crunchy.”

Tickets are $49 per person and may be purchased at the Symphony Office, by calling 785-823-8309 or online at salinasymphony.org.

The Symphony will present the same chamber music program Fri., Sept. 27, at 7:30 p.m. at the C.L. Hoover Opera House in Junction City. For more information, visit salinasymphony.org

The Salina Symphony is dedicated to enriching lives through artistic music performance and education. For more information, contact Adrienne Allen at (785) 823-8309 or visit salinasymphony.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723669509619.png" alt="The Salina Symphony flute quartet will present Mozart’s Flute Quartet in D major featuring Lillian Oeding, principal flute. The string quartet, featuring Maestro Segal himself, will perform one of Mozart’s most beloved chamber works, Eine Kleine Nachtmusik.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The Salina Symphony flute quartet will present Mozart’s Flute Quartet in D major featuring Lillian Oeding, principal flute. The string quartet, featuring Maestro Segal himself, will perform one of Mozart’s most beloved chamber works, Eine Kleine Nachtmusik.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina SymphonyKick off the Salina Symphony season while enjoying the beauty of autumn with Chamber Music in the Courtyard Sat., Sept. 28, at 4 p.m. at the Homewood Suites in Downtown Salina.The Salina Symphony flute quartet will present Mozart’s Flute Quartet in D major featuring Lillian Oeding, principal flute. The string quartet, featuring Maestro Segal himself, will perform one of Mozart’s most beloved chamber works, Eine Kleine Nachtmusik.In addition, the woodwind quintet will present The Melting Pot by Alyssa Morris, K-State associate professor of oboe, with movements titled “Bubbly,” “Sweet” and “Crunchy.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723669062168.jpeg" alt="The Courtyard is located at the Homewood Suites in Downtown Salina Kansas. Photo Courtesy Salina Symphony.&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The Courtyard is located at the Homewood Suites in Downtown Salina Kansas. Photo Courtesy Salina Symphony.&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Tickets are $49 per person and may be purchased at the Symphony Office, by calling 785-823-8309 or online at salinasymphony.org.The Symphony will present the same chamber music program Fri., Sept. 27, at 7:30 p.m. at the C.L. Hoover Opera House in Junction City. For more information, visit salinasymphony.orgThe Salina Symphony is dedicated to enriching lives through artistic music performance and education. For more information, contact Adrienne Allen at (785) 823-8309 or visit salinasymphony.org.

Salina Symphony presents 'Chamber Music in the Courtyard' on Sept. 28

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.

<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.

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