Great opportunity for community members to learn how to play guitar and end with a group recital at the Stiefel Theatre.

Enroll now for eight-week group guitar classes at the Stiefel Theatre with classes beginning Monday, February 16, for complete beginners through experienced guitar players and continue every Monday through the April 13 recital, eight weeks of music.

· Beginner class is 4:00 pm -4:50 pm , with teacher Daryn Garman.

· “Monday Night Hootenanny” is the 5:00 pm -5:50 pm class for all levels with teacher Matt Gerry.

· Intermediate Guitar is 6:00 pm -6:50 pm , also taught by Matt Gerry.

Gerry is an award-winning guitar teacher who started the flourishing guitar program at South Middle School.

 Garman is a junior at South High and former student of Gerry. She began teaching beginner classes last year.

The Monday Night Hootenanny is an innovative format that Gerry started last year. Students receive chords and lyrics for familiar songs – oldies, popular songs, folk songs, songs that most people know – and class members play and sing the songs together in class. 

“You don’t have to be a good singer or a great guitar player – this is singing and playing for the joy of it,” says the Stiefel’s Music School manager, Ann Zimmerman, a Salina attorney who is also a singer-songwriter. “The atmosphere is very supportive for all ages and playing abilities.”

Students are asked to bring their own guitars – the Stiefel has guitars available for students without guitars.

The cost is $200 for each eight-week class.

Scholarships are available. The Stiefel urges adults and youth to seek scholarships if they do not have money to spare. Request a scholarship application by calling (785) 827-1998.

According to Mr. Gerry, “We want young and old to have the opportunity to enrich their lives through music, especially guitar playing.”

Jane Gates, Stiefel Theatre Executive Director, says “We want to foster a musical community in Salina. Great music is what the Stiefel is all about, and greatness can start with people taking guitar lessons.”

Individual lessons offered through the school include Hammond B-3 organ from Kansas Music Hall of Famer Paul Draper and classical guitar lessons from Kansas college guitar professor Howard Glanton. Piano, harmonica, ukulele, harmony singing, and songwriting classes are some of the other opportunities the school of music offers from time to time. Shortened classes and music “camps” are held in the summer; more classes will happen in the fall semester.

The Stiefel’s “Mike Finnigan School of Music” is named for the world-renowned player of the Hammond B-3 organ, Mike Finnigan, whose untimely death from cancer inspired his family to support the Stiefel’s school of music.&nbsp;

<a href="https://stiefeltheatre.org/school-of-music">Enroll now here</a>&nbsp;or by calling the Stiefel Theatre,&nbsp;(785) 827-1998.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770674490697.png" alt="Courtesy flyer" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy flyer</figcaption>
 </figure>Stiefel TheatreGreat opportunity for community members to learn how to play guitar and end with a group recital at the Stiefel Theatre.Enroll now for eight-week group guitar classes at the Stiefel Theatre with classes beginning Monday, February 16, for complete beginners through experienced guitar players and continue every Monday through the April 13 recital, eight weeks of music.<h2>What to expect</h2>· Beginner class is 4:00 pm -4:50 pm , with teacher Daryn Garman.· “Monday Night Hootenanny” is the 5:00 pm -5:50 pm class for all levels with teacher Matt Gerry.· Intermediate Guitar is 6:00 pm -6:50 pm , also taught by Matt Gerry.Gerry is an award-winning guitar teacher who started the flourishing guitar program at South Middle School. Garman is a junior at South High and former student of Gerry. She began teaching beginner classes last year.The Monday Night Hootenanny is an innovative format that Gerry started last year. Students receive chords and lyrics for familiar songs – oldies, popular songs, folk songs, songs that most people know – and class members play and sing the songs together in class. “You don’t have to be a good singer or a great guitar player – this is singing and playing for the joy of it,” says the Stiefel’s Music School manager, Ann Zimmerman, a Salina attorney who is also a singer-songwriter. “The atmosphere is very supportive for all ages and playing abilities.”Students are asked to bring their own guitars – the Stiefel has guitars available for students without guitars.The cost is $200 for each eight-week class.Scholarships are available. The Stiefel urges adults and youth to seek scholarships if they do not have money to spare. Request a scholarship application by calling (785) 827-1998.According to Mr. Gerry, “We want young and old to have the opportunity to enrich their lives through music, especially guitar playing.”Jane Gates, Stiefel Theatre Executive Director, says “We want to foster a musical community in Salina. Great music is what the Stiefel is all about, and greatness can start with people taking guitar lessons.”Individual lessons offered through the school include Hammond B-3 organ from Kansas Music Hall of Famer Paul Draper and classical guitar lessons from Kansas college guitar professor Howard Glanton. Piano, harmonica, ukulele, harmony singing, and songwriting classes are some of the other opportunities the school of music offers from time to time. Shortened classes and music “camps” are held in the summer; more classes will happen in the fall semester.The Stiefel’s “Mike Finnigan School of Music” is named for the world-renowned player of the Hammond B-3 organ, Mike Finnigan, whose untimely death from cancer inspired his family to support the Stiefel’s school of music.&nbsp;<a href="https://stiefeltheatre.org/school-of-music">Enroll now here</a>&nbsp;or by calling the Stiefel Theatre,&nbsp;(785) 827-1998.

Great opportunity: Learn to play guitar and end with group recital at Stiefel Theatre

The 2026 Kansas KidWind Challenge is expected to be record breaking. 

This year, 110 teams representing 38 schools from across the state are registered to compete, breaking the previous record of 94 teams in 2023.

The first regional challenge will be held in Dodge City on Tuesday, Feb. 10.

Five more regional events are scheduled throughout the month in Colby (Feb. 12), Hutchinson (Feb. 17), Overland Park (Feb. 19), Manhattan (Feb. 25), and Burlington (Feb. 27). 

All events are open to the public and free to attend. The 2026 KidWind Event Guide, complete with times and locations, is available&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kcc.ks.gov%2Fimages%2FPDFs%2Feducation%2FKidWindChallengeEventGuide_2026.pdf%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0101019c4486183a-1178de64-c7c4-4d9b-bdf7-7eb5471da49a-000000/FpsJ4QyeeykfeL42MgBDbuLmMORZBYxYT_bKfDcfi6c=443">here</a>.

Student teams work together to design, build and test a wind turbine using the materials of their choice. Each team’s turbine will be put to the test in a wind tunnel at a wind speed of approximately 3.5-5 m/s (meters per second). Scoring is based on turbine performance, a knowledge quiz, a presentation to judges where the team explains its design process, and an instant challenge.

4th&nbsp;– 5th&nbsp;grade, 6th&nbsp;– 8th&nbsp;grade and 9th&nbsp;– 12th&nbsp;grade. 

The winning teams at regional events advance to the state finals on April 11 in Salina.

State winners are invited to participate in the World KidWind Challenge in Madison, WI from May 18-21.

“KidWind is a fantastic hands-on opportunity that allows students to tinker and experiment with wind turbine designs. They experience the thrill of scientific discovery as their designs are validated through performance testing, and they hone their public speaking skills as they present their turbine design to a panel of judges,” explained David Carter, Director of the Kansas Energy Program at K-State Engineering Extension.

Kansas KidWind is an energy-related STEM education event from the Kansas Corporation Commission and K-State Engineering Extension made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy.

More information about KidWind is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kcc.ks.gov%2Fenergy-education%2Fkidwind%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0101019c4486183a-1178de64-c7c4-4d9b-bdf7-7eb5471da49a-000000/5TBULwuSnAncO9zJHBDhW_aMyFMHRvq7A7cRaA994HU=443">https://www.kcc.ks.gov/energy-education/kidwind</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738772227120.png" alt="KidWind challenge Kansas Corporation Commission&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>KidWind challenge Kansas Corporation Commission&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Corporation CommissionThe 2026 Kansas KidWind Challenge is expected to be record breaking. This year, 110 teams representing 38 schools from across the state are registered to compete, breaking the previous record of 94 teams in 2023.The first regional challenge will be held in Dodge City on Tuesday, Feb. 10. Five more regional events are scheduled throughout the month in Colby (Feb. 12), Hutchinson (Feb. 17), Overland Park (Feb. 19), Manhattan (Feb. 25), and Burlington (Feb. 27). All events are open to the public and free to attend. The 2026 KidWind Event Guide, complete with times and locations, is available&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kcc.ks.gov%2Fimages%2FPDFs%2Feducation%2FKidWindChallengeEventGuide_2026.pdf%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0101019c4486183a-1178de64-c7c4-4d9b-bdf7-7eb5471da49a-000000/FpsJ4QyeeykfeL42MgBDbuLmMORZBYxYT_bKfDcfi6c=443">here</a>.Student teams work together to design, build and test a wind turbine using the materials of their choice. Each team’s turbine will be put to the test in a wind tunnel at a wind speed of approximately 3.5-5 m/s (meters per second). Scoring is based on turbine performance, a knowledge quiz, a presentation to judges where the team explains its design process, and an instant challenge.Students compete by age categories: 4th&nbsp;– 5th&nbsp;grade, 6th&nbsp;– 8th&nbsp;grade and 9th&nbsp;– 12th&nbsp;grade. The winning teams at regional events advance to the state finals on April 11 in Salina. State winners are invited to participate in the World KidWind Challenge in Madison, WI from May 18-21.“KidWind is a fantastic hands-on opportunity that allows students to tinker and experiment with wind turbine designs. They experience the thrill of scientific discovery as their designs are validated through performance testing, and they hone their public speaking skills as they present their turbine design to a panel of judges,” explained David Carter, Director of the Kansas Energy Program at K-State Engineering Extension.Kansas KidWind is an energy-related STEM education event from the Kansas Corporation Commission and K-State Engineering Extension made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy.More information about KidWind is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kcc.ks.gov%2Fenergy-education%2Fkidwind%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0101019c4486183a-1178de64-c7c4-4d9b-bdf7-7eb5471da49a-000000/5TBULwuSnAncO9zJHBDhW_aMyFMHRvq7A7cRaA994HU=443">https://www.kcc.ks.gov/energy-education/kidwind</a>.

KidWind Challenge has begun with record number of teams competing throughout Kansas, state finals in Salina

Salina Commissioners have decided to help fund the building of a nonprofit recycling center, after postponing consideration.

Orignal: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/e2e18227-33d7-41f4-8a88-dda963911878">Salina postpones consideration of partnership with nonprofit recycling center</a>

On Monday's City Commission meeting, the decision was made to fund <a href="https://www.reuseitsalina.org/">ReUse It Salina</a>&nbsp;for a total amount of $162,500 from Solid Waste Fund. This amount does not include interest.

The owners of ReUse It stated they will generate about $30,000 a month to bring a positive cash flow up to April 2027. From there, ReUse It will be "self-sustaining" according to the owners. This will assist them to purchase the building and other operational matters.

Commissioner Dr. Trent Davis suggested they add additional funding towards the amount to assist them with HVAC establishments.

ReUseIt Salina&nbsp;has leased out a building on North Ohio and plans to sell items online and accept donations such as home remodeling materials and&nbsp;hardware in effort to reduce landfill.&nbsp;ReUse It anticipates diverting multiple tons from the landfill by accepting these donations and then reselling them.

The business will also divert those items to either the city's landfill or another desired location.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769478077851.png" alt="ReUse It Salina on 549 N. Ohio St." />
 <figcaption>ReUse It Salina on 549 N. Ohio St.</figcaption>
 </figure>By: NICOLAS FIERROSalina PostSalina Commissioners have decided to help fund the building of a nonprofit recycling center, after postponing consideration.Orignal: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/e2e18227-33d7-41f4-8a88-dda963911878">Salina postpones consideration of partnership with nonprofit recycling center</a>On Monday's City Commission meeting, the decision was made to fund <a href="https://www.reuseitsalina.org/">ReUse It Salina</a>&nbsp;for a total amount of $162,500 from Solid Waste Fund. This amount does not include interest.The owners of ReUse It stated they will generate about $30,000 a month to bring a positive cash flow up to April 2027. From there, ReUse It will be "self-sustaining" according to the owners. This will assist them to purchase the building and other operational matters.Commissioner Dr. Trent Davis suggested they add additional funding towards the amount to assist them with HVAC establishments.ReUseIt Salina&nbsp;has leased out a building on North Ohio and plans to sell items online and accept donations such as home remodeling materials and&nbsp;hardware in effort to reduce landfill.&nbsp;ReUse It anticipates diverting multiple tons from the landfill by accepting these donations and then reselling them.The business will also divert those items to either the city's landfill or another desired location.

UPDATE: Decision made to fund nonprofit recycling center in Salina

Two changes have been made to city-owned parks in Salina.

Barkley Park (formerly, John Parker Jr. Park) has been decided to change its name to the "Barking Lot" and Earl J. Bondy relocated to the Berkley Family Recreation Area fields (BFRA).

The costs of these changes will come from the the Capital Parks Improvement Fund (CPIF) derived from Sales Tax Fund.&nbsp;

Cost of sign for Earl J. Bondy is $800 and cost of design and placement of sign for the "Barking Lot" is $1,700.

Other funds for different maintenances could vary as well.

Before these changes were finalized by Salina Commissioners, these requests came from public input and recommendations.

The name of Earl J. Bondy will be moved to fields #1 &amp; #2 at BFRA, from its current location near Sunset Park.

Commissioner, Dr. Trent Davis stated he supports the relocation of Earl Bondy, but wanted to make it clear that he and the commission are not "turning their backs" on Sunset Park.

He said this because there has been many changes made to Sunset Park in the past.

The City of Salina has historically recognized Earl Bondy's contribution to local sports by naming a baseball complex after him.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770676433239.png" alt="Earl J. Bondy and Barkley Park sign in Salina, KS" />
 <figcaption>Earl J. Bondy and Barkley Park sign in Salina, KS</figcaption>
 </figure>By: NICOLAS FIERRO&nbsp;Salina PostTwo changes have been made to city-owned parks in Salina.Barkley Park (formerly, John Parker Jr. Park) has been decided to change its name to the "Barking Lot" and Earl J. Bondy relocated to the Berkley Family Recreation Area fields (BFRA).The costs of these changes will come from the the Capital Parks Improvement Fund (CPIF) derived from Sales Tax Fund.&nbsp;Cost of sign for Earl J. Bondy is $800 and cost of design and placement of sign for the "Barking Lot" is $1,700.Other funds for different maintenances could vary as well.Before these changes were finalized by Salina Commissioners, these requests came from public input and recommendations.The name of Earl J. Bondy will be moved to fields #1 &amp; #2 at BFRA, from its current location near Sunset Park.Commissioner, Dr. Trent Davis stated he supports the relocation of Earl Bondy, but wanted to make it clear that he and the commission are not "turning their backs" on Sunset Park.He said this because there has been many changes made to Sunset Park in the past.The City of Salina has historically recognized Earl Bondy's contribution to local sports by naming a baseball complex after him.

City of Salina makes two changes to city-owned parks

Following is recent booking activity for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salinecountyks.gov/Sheriff-Office/Online-search/Booking-Activities">Saline County Jail</a>, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity

Following is recent booking activity for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salinecountyks.gov/Sheriff-Office/Online-search/Booking-Activities">Saline County Jail</a>, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770663478412.jpeg" alt="Riley,Matthew Rambo (37)" />
 <figcaption>Riley,Matthew Rambo (37)</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Riley,Matthew RamboREQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity

Saline County Jail Bookings, February 9 

K-State Extension – Central Kansas District Family and Community Wellness

Staying active is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, but finding motivation and time can be challenging. If you’re looking for a fun and achievable way to increase your physical activity, Walk Kansas might be just what you need.

This statewide program encourages team-based movement and provides accountability and encouragement to help you meet national Physical Activity Guidelines and improve your well-being. 

Understanding the Physical Activity Guidelines

The Physical Activity Guidelines for U.S. citizens from the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, recommend that adults aim for 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. Additionally, it’s important to include muscle-strengthening activities at least two days per week. 

Following these guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance overall quality of life. 

Moderate-intensity physical activity means getting your heart rate up and breaking a sweat, but still being able to carry on a conversation. 

· Active household chores, like vacuuming or mopping

If you’re not sure whether you’re reaching a moderate level, try the talk test—if you can talk but not sing while being active, you’re in the right range! 

In addition to aerobic activity, adults should engage in muscle-strengthening activities at least two days per week. Strength training is crucial for maintaining muscle mass, improving bone density, and reducing the risk of injury. 

· Bodyweight exercises (push-ups, squats, lunges)

· Lifting weights or using resistance bands

Walk Kansas provides an excellent opportunity to work toward these activity goals. This eight-week program encourages participants to team up and log physical activity while virtually traveling across the state of Kansas. The program is designed for all fitness levels and motivates participants to move more, sit less, and incorporate strength training into their routine.

· Team Accountability: Join friends, family, or co-workers to stay on track.

· Flexible Activities: Walk, bike, dance, or choose any movement you enjoy.

· Support &amp; Motivation: Weekly tips, recipes, and resources to encourage a healthier lifestyle.

Sticking to a fitness routine is much easier when you enjoy what you’re doing. The best physical activity is the one you’ll actually do—whether it’s walking with friends, gardening, or dancing in your living room. So, what’s your favorite way to move? If you’re looking for a great place to start, consider getting a team together, signing up for Walk Kansas and taking the first step toward a healthier, more active lifestyle!

Registration opens March 1, 2026. The program runs from March 22 - May 16, 2026.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.walkkansas.org">To learn more, visit Walk Kansas website.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770662147461.png" alt="Walk Kansas: Statewide program encourages team-based movement and provides accountability and encouragement to help you meet national Physical Activity Guidelines and improve your well-being." />
 <figcaption>Walk Kansas: Statewide program encourages team-based movement and provides accountability and encouragement to help you meet national Physical Activity Guidelines and improve your well-being.</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Extension – Central Kansas District Family and Community WellnessStaying active is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, but finding motivation and time can be challenging. If you’re looking for a fun and achievable way to increase your physical activity, Walk Kansas might be just what you need. This statewide program encourages team-based movement and provides accountability and encouragement to help you meet national Physical Activity Guidelines and improve your well-being. <h2>Understanding the Physical Activity Guidelines</h2>The Physical Activity Guidelines for U.S. citizens from the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, recommend that adults aim for 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. Additionally, it’s important to include muscle-strengthening activities at least two days per week. Following these guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance overall quality of life. <h2>What Does Moderate-Intensity Look Like?</h2>Moderate-intensity physical activity means getting your heart rate up and breaking a sweat, but still being able to carry on a conversation. Examples include:· Brisk walking (about 2.5 to 4 mph)· Dancing· Gardening or yard work· Water aerobics· Recreational biking (under 10 mph)· Active household chores, like vacuuming or moppingIf you’re not sure whether you’re reaching a moderate level, try the talk test—if you can talk but not sing while being active, you’re in the right range! <h2>The Importance of Strength Training</h2>In addition to aerobic activity, adults should engage in muscle-strengthening activities at least two days per week. Strength training is crucial for maintaining muscle mass, improving bone density, and reducing the risk of injury. Some effective options include:· Bodyweight exercises (push-ups, squats, lunges)· Lifting weights or using resistance bands· Yoga or Pilates· Heavy gardening (digging, shoveling)<h2>Making It Happen with Walk Kansas</h2>Walk Kansas provides an excellent opportunity to work toward these activity goals. This eight-week program encourages participants to team up and log physical activity while virtually traveling across the state of Kansas. The program is designed for all fitness levels and motivates participants to move more, sit less, and incorporate strength training into their routine.With Walk Kansas, you’ll enjoy:· Team Accountability: Join friends, family, or co-workers to stay on track.· Flexible Activities: Walk, bike, dance, or choose any movement you enjoy.· Support &amp; Motivation: Weekly tips, recipes, and resources to encourage a healthier lifestyle.<h2>Find the Activity You Enjoy</h2>Sticking to a fitness routine is much easier when you enjoy what you’re doing. The best physical activity is the one you’ll actually do—whether it’s walking with friends, gardening, or dancing in your living room. So, what’s your favorite way to move? If you’re looking for a great place to start, consider getting a team together, signing up for Walk Kansas and taking the first step toward a healthier, more active lifestyle!Registration opens March 1, 2026. The program runs from March 22 - May 16, 2026.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.walkkansas.org">To learn more, visit Walk Kansas website.</a>

K-State health initiative encourages Kansans to stay active and have fun meeting fitness goals

Kansas Department of Health and Environment

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has launched a new&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kdhe.ks.gov%2F1508%2FTravel-Health%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019c43186f5e-c0f3d35b-f2d4-49f3-a0d0-6508e0457071-000000/B--x3N4mBE2HtfQDbxmTcHKSLzJQBeQp0tgBaXTl0cQ=443">Travel &amp; Health webpage</a>&nbsp;to provide healthcare and public health partners with educational and clinical resources ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026TM.

This highly anticipated event is expected to bring increased domestic and international travel to the Kansas City metro area.

Higher travel volumes and mass gatherings increase the potential for the spread of infectious diseases, including conditions rarely seen in Kansas. Healthcare providers are encouraged to routinely “Think Travel History” when evaluating patients.

“With the World Cup approaching, early recognition starts with asking about travel,”&nbsp;KDHE Deputy Secretary for Public Health Ashley Goss said.&nbsp;“This new webpage gives providers a central resource to quickly access guidance and stay prepared for travel-related disease risks.”

The new Travel &amp; Health webpage includes:

- Disease-specific reporting and testing information.

- Infection Prevention and Control resources for healthcare facilities.

- Provider training webinars on domestic and international infectious diseases.

In the upcoming weeks, new resources will continue to be added. These will include additional training webinars, a clinical support dashboard which will allow clinicians to search for outbreaks and endemic diseases by country, and a Kansas specific dashboard which will track emergency department visits and wastewater surveillance data.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683988779686.jpg" alt="Image Pixaby" />
 <figcaption>Image Pixaby</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of Health and EnvironmentThe Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has launched a new&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kdhe.ks.gov%2F1508%2FTravel-Health%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019c43186f5e-c0f3d35b-f2d4-49f3-a0d0-6508e0457071-000000/B--x3N4mBE2HtfQDbxmTcHKSLzJQBeQp0tgBaXTl0cQ=443">Travel &amp; Health webpage</a>&nbsp;to provide healthcare and public health partners with educational and clinical resources ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026TM. This highly anticipated event is expected to bring increased domestic and international travel to the Kansas City metro area.Higher travel volumes and mass gatherings increase the potential for the spread of infectious diseases, including conditions rarely seen in Kansas. Healthcare providers are encouraged to routinely “Think Travel History” when evaluating patients.“With the World Cup approaching, early recognition starts with asking about travel,”&nbsp;KDHE Deputy Secretary for Public Health Ashley Goss said.&nbsp;“This new webpage gives providers a central resource to quickly access guidance and stay prepared for travel-related disease risks.”The new Travel &amp; Health webpage includes:- Current travel health notices.- Disease-specific reporting and testing information.- Infection Prevention and Control resources for healthcare facilities.- Provider training webinars on domestic and international infectious diseases.In the upcoming weeks, new resources will continue to be added. These will include additional training webinars, a clinical support dashboard which will allow clinicians to search for outbreaks and endemic diseases by country, and a Kansas specific dashboard which will track emergency department visits and wastewater surveillance data.

KDHE launches new webpage giving healthcare providers resources ahead of FIFA World Cup travel

Salina Police are investigating an anti-ICE protest, where possible charges are pending for a man.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Saturday at around 4:45 pm, a group of anti-ICE protestors were protesting on a grassy area near Dillons on 9th Street (2350 Planet). A 38-year old female reported a truck suddenly approached and drove near the area of the protestors.

Protestors were concerned and yelled at the driver to back away.

The driver then backed away and fled the scene before officers arrived.

Officers then came in contact with the male driver at his home address, who is identified as a 64-year old of Salina.

SPD are seeking for any surveillance video and possible charges are pending.

Salina PostSalina Police are investigating an anti-ICE protest, where possible charges are pending for a man.According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Saturday at around 4:45 pm, a group of anti-ICE protestors were protesting on a grassy area near Dillons on 9th Street (2350 Planet). A 38-year old female reported a truck suddenly approached and drove near the area of the protestors.Protestors were concerned and yelled at the driver to back away.The driver then backed away and fled the scene before officers arrived.Officers then came in contact with the male driver at his home address, who is identified as a 64-year old of Salina.SPD are seeking for any surveillance video and possible charges are pending.

Possible charges pending for Salina man after anti-ICE protest incident

The Saline County Sheriff's Office has released Salina's Most Wanted list for February 2026.&nbsp;

The current number arrested is&nbsp;3,957.&nbsp;

All photos provided are courtesy of the Saline County Sheriff's Office.&nbsp;All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony / Theft

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony / Crim. Threat / DV Batt. / Theft / Intimidation of Witness/Victim

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony PV / Theft / Give False Information

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony FTA / Stalking x2 /Harass by Telephone x10 / Viol Pro Order x36

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony FTA / Poss Opiate

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony / Poss Meth / Poss Para

NAME:&nbsp;Harwell, Richard Preston

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony Bond Viol. / Poss. Opiate / Poss. Para. / No Drug Tax Stamp / Recruit Gang Member / Crim. Threat / Int. w/ LEO x2

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony / Att Distribution of Methamphetamine / Paraphernalia / Possess Hydrocodone / Possess Marijuana / Use of cell phone in Felony / No drug tax stamp

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony / Forgery / Att. Forgery / Theft / Att. Theft

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony Poss. Opiate / Poss. MJ / Poss. Para.

NAME:&nbsp;Martinez, Aaliyah Nichole

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony PV / Flee &amp; Elude

NAME:&nbsp;Martinez, Amanda Nicole

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony PV / Poss Opiate

NAME:&nbsp;McDowell, Tristian Pacey

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony PV / Poss. Opiates x2

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony FTA / Poss Opiates

NAME:&nbsp;Platte-Evans, Heather Renea

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony FTA / Flee &amp; Elude / Poss MJ

NAME:&nbsp;Stebbins, Christopher Joel

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony PV / Burglary / Theft / Crim. Damage to Property

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony FTA / Poss Opiate

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony Bond Viol. / Dist. Heroin / Poss. Opiates / Poss. Controlled Substance / Poss. Para. / No Drug Tax Stamp

The Saline County Sheriff's Office has released Salina's Most Wanted list for February 2026.&nbsp;The current number arrested is&nbsp;3,957.&nbsp;All photos provided are courtesy of the Saline County Sheriff's Office.&nbsp;All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767640951958.png" alt="Allison, Judi Lynn" />
 <figcaption>Allison, Judi Lynn</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Allison, Judi LynnREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony / Theft<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1767186141474.png" alt="Bowser, Greg Lewis" />
 <figcaption>Bowser, Greg Lewis</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Bowser, Greg LewisREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony / Crim. Threat / DV Batt. / Theft / Intimidation of Witness/Victim<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767641165250.png" alt="Dillard, Ann Elaine" />
 <figcaption>Dillard, Ann Elaine</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Dillard, Ann ElaineREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony PV / Theft / Give False Information<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761832603550.jpeg" alt="Eisenman, Tray Allen " />
 <figcaption>Eisenman, Tray Allen </figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Eisenman, Tray AllenREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony FTA / Stalking x2 /Harass by Telephone x10 / Viol Pro Order x36<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748700102786.jpeg" alt="Fricks,Jamie Eugene&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Fricks,Jamie Eugene&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Fricks, Jamie EugeneREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony FTA / Poss Opiate<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744289298308.jpeg" alt="Gonzalez,Jose Alberto" />
 <figcaption>Gonzalez,Jose Alberto</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Gonzalez, Jose AlbertoREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony / Poss Meth / Poss Para<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759759605938.jpeg" alt="Harwell, Richard Preston" />
 <figcaption>Harwell, Richard Preston</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Harwell, Richard PrestonREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony Bond Viol. / Poss. Opiate / Poss. Para. / No Drug Tax Stamp / Recruit Gang Member / Crim. Threat / Int. w/ LEO x2<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757956974901.jpeg" alt="Heller, Josey Collette" />
 <figcaption>Heller, Josey Collette</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Heller, Josey ColletteREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony / Att Distribution of Methamphetamine / Paraphernalia / Possess Hydrocodone / Possess Marijuana / Use of cell phone in Felony / No drug tax stamp<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757956993353.jpeg" alt="Heskett, Monica Lee" />
 <figcaption>Heskett, Monica Lee</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Heskett, Monica LeeREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony / Forgery / Att. Forgery / Theft / Att. Theft<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770649785090.png" alt="Koch, Shaylynn Renee" />
 <figcaption>Koch, Shaylynn Renee</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Koch, Shaylynn ReneeREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony Poss. Opiate / Poss. MJ / Poss. Para.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745177900105.png" alt="Martinez, Aaliyah Nichole" />
 <figcaption>Martinez, Aaliyah Nichole</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Martinez, Aaliyah NicholeREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony PV / Flee &amp; Elude<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758631974113.jpeg" alt="Martinez, Amanda Nicole " />
 <figcaption>Martinez, Amanda Nicole </figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Martinez, Amanda NicoleREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony PV / Poss Opiate<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752759989722.jpeg" alt="McDowell,Tristian Pacey" />
 <figcaption>McDowell,Tristian Pacey</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;McDowell, Tristian PaceyREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony PV / Poss. Opiates x2<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752583261625.jpeg" alt="Owens,Ashley Renee&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Owens,Ashley Renee&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Owens, Ashley ReneeREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony FTA / Poss Opiates<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1733025434017.png" alt="Platte-Evans, Heather Renea" />
 <figcaption>Platte-Evans, Heather Renea</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Platte-Evans, Heather ReneaREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony FTA / Flee &amp; Elude / Poss MJ<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715436233602.jpeg" alt="Stebbins, Christopher Joel" />
 <figcaption>Stebbins, Christopher Joel</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Stebbins, Christopher JoelREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony PV / Burglary / Theft / Crim. Damage to Property<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612453774147.jpeg" alt="Wood, Shawn Thomas" />
 <figcaption>Wood, Shawn Thomas</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Wood, Shawn ThomasREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony FTA / Poss Opiate<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767642259938.png" alt="Zediker, Randy Clark" />
 <figcaption>Zediker, Randy Clark</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Zediker, Randy ClarkREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Felony Bond Viol. / Dist. Heroin / Poss. Opiates / Poss. Controlled Substance / Poss. Para. / No Drug Tax Stamp

Saline County Sheriff's Office Most Wanted — February 2026

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

Salina Post understands the importance of honoring the deceased and welcomes all submissions of obituaries with a full summary of their life, survivors, services, website of the funeral home and a photo.

Salina Post accepts all obituaries&nbsp;free of charge&nbsp;and you can email all obituaries:&nbsp;<a href="https://newstips@salinapost.com/">newstips@salinapost.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com">nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;and will be posted on the website within 24 business hours.

If you have an issue outside of business hours, if your obituary has not been published within 24 business hours, or if have any questions, please email:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://newstips@salinapost.com/">newstips@salinapost.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com">nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1561995642681.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.<h2>Salina Post obituary policy</h2>Salina Post understands the importance of honoring the deceased and welcomes all submissions of obituaries with a full summary of their life, survivors, services, website of the funeral home and a photo.Salina Post accepts all obituaries&nbsp;free of charge&nbsp;and you can email all obituaries:&nbsp;<a href="https://newstips@salinapost.com/">newstips@salinapost.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com">nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;and will be posted on the website within 24 business hours.If you have an issue outside of business hours, if your obituary has not been published within 24 business hours, or if have any questions, please email:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://newstips@salinapost.com/">newstips@salinapost.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com">nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com</a>

Recent obituaries and service times, how to submit an obituary

<a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Salina&amp;state=KS&amp;site=ICT&amp;lat=38.8158&amp;lon=-97.6178">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Monitor local weather updates frequently in multiple ways by listening to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/nwr/">NOAA Weather Radio</a>, checking local news and emergency notifications. You can also stay informed by following Saline County and the National Weather Service on social media.

For the latest forecast updates, visit the National Weather Service Wichita office at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">https://www.weather.gov/ict/</a>. To check forecasts frequently, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">weather.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770648826273.png" alt="Three day weather forecast Salina, February 9 - February 11. Courtesy of US National Weather Service" />
 <figcaption>Three day weather forecast Salina, February 9 - February 11. Courtesy of US National Weather Service</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Salina&amp;state=KS&amp;site=ICT&amp;lat=38.8158&amp;lon=-97.6178">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>Monitor local weather updates frequently in multiple ways by listening to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/nwr/">NOAA Weather Radio</a>, checking local news and emergency notifications. You can also stay informed by following Saline County and the National Weather Service on social media.For the latest forecast updates, visit the National Weather Service Wichita office at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">https://www.weather.gov/ict/</a>. To check forecasts frequently, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">weather.gov</a>.

Three day weather forecast Salina, February 9 - February 11

NAME:&nbsp;Huffman,Warren Raymond

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Theft by deception:Value $1,500 to $25,000

Following is recent booking activity for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salinecountyks.gov/Sheriff-Office/Online-search/Booking-Activities">Saline County Jail</a>, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770589791224.jpeg" alt="Huffman,Warren Raymond (47)" />
 <figcaption>Huffman,Warren Raymond (47)</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Huffman,Warren Raymond REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Theft by deception:Value $1,500 to $25,000

Saline County Jail Bookings, February 8

Dr. Steve Hoekstra, professor of Psychology at Kansas Wesleyan University, will join local psychologist Dr. Paula Fried in presenting “What’s Your Type? The History, Promise, and Limits of Personality Typing” at the Salina Art Center (242 S. Santa Fe Ave.) on Wednesday, Feb. 11 from 6-7 p.m.

The presentation will focus on the popular Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and explore the history of personality typing, its uses, its limitations and more.&nbsp;

“People instinctively want to classify people into groups and to use that knowledge to predict what people might do,” said Hoekstra.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Many personality tests are also used for workgroups or to judge relationship compatibility. We’re going to explore how personality forms, whether it can change, and how it is or isn’t useful in everyday life.”

The event is free to the public and will be located in the Salina Art Center’s gallery.

Additional information can be found at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://salinaartcenter.org/galleries">salinaartcenter.org/galleries</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770522638721.jpeg" alt="Dr. Steve Hoekstra, professor of Psychology at Kansas Wesleyan University" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Steve Hoekstra, professor of Psychology at Kansas Wesleyan University</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Wesleyan UniversityDr. Steve Hoekstra, professor of Psychology at Kansas Wesleyan University, will join local psychologist Dr. Paula Fried in presenting “What’s Your Type? The History, Promise, and Limits of Personality Typing” at the Salina Art Center (242 S. Santa Fe Ave.) on Wednesday, Feb. 11 from 6-7 p.m.The presentation will focus on the popular Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and explore the history of personality typing, its uses, its limitations and more.&nbsp;“People instinctively want to classify people into groups and to use that knowledge to predict what people might do,” said Hoekstra.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Many personality tests are also used for workgroups or to judge relationship compatibility. We’re going to explore how personality forms, whether it can change, and how it is or isn’t useful in everyday life.”The event is free to the public and will be located in the Salina Art Center’s gallery.Additional information can be found at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://salinaartcenter.org/galleries">salinaartcenter.org/galleries</a>.

KWU Psychology professor to explore Personality Typing in presentation at Salina Art Center

The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce officially unveiled a new community brand as part of the Community Marketing Initiative (CMI), marking a major step forward in telling Salina’s story and positioning the community for long term growth.&nbsp;

The new brand, developed by Chamber staff in collaboration with community partners, reflects Salina’s authentic character, momentum, and potential. It is designed to strengthen local pride while reshaping how Salina is perceived by visitors, job seekers, families, and businesses across the region&nbsp; and beyond.&nbsp;

Key elements of the new branding, such as logo, fonts, and colors, will be utilized prominently for a new website (set to launch in the spring) and future digital marketing materials highlighting Salina and&nbsp; Saline County.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Good, bad, or indifferent, communities have reputations just like individuals and businesses do,”&nbsp; said Renee Duxler, President &amp; CEO of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce. “This initiative is about clearly defining who we are today, celebrating what makes Salina unique, and intentionally sharing that story in a way that builds pride locally and curiosity externally.”&nbsp;

The Community Marketing Initiative is a comprehensive, long-term digital marketing effort focused on three primary goals:&nbsp;

• Attracting visitors and new residents, particularly young professionals and families.

• Supporting workforce recruitment and economic development.

• Increasing resident pride and community engagement.

The initiative emphasizes authentic storytelling, data-driven strategy, and collaboration with local businesses, organizations, and institutions throughout Saline County.

At the heart of the CMI is a robust digital strategy that will include:&nbsp;

• The development and launch of a new SEO-optimized community website in spring 2026.

• Targeted digital and Google advertising campaigns.

• Ongoing social media storytelling and community-focused content.

• A comprehensive photo and video library showcasing Salina’s people, places, and quality of life.

• Blog content designed to improve search visibility and share real stories from the community.

“This is about meeting people where they are, on their screens, while staying true to who we are,”&nbsp; Duxler said. “A strong brand and consistent digital presence are critical tools for recruitment,&nbsp; retention, tourism, and long-term economic vitality.”&nbsp;

The new brand and marketing initiative are designed with not only external audiences in mind, but residents as well. By highlighting Salina’s arts scene, downtown growth, career opportunities, public spaces, and quality of life, the initiative aims to foster a sense of ownership and belonging among those who already call Salina home.&nbsp;

“When residents believe in the brand and see themselves in it, they become our best ambassadors,”&nbsp; Duxler added. “That word-of-mouth advocacy is incredibly powerful.”&nbsp;

The CMI will begin rolling out the new brand across digital platforms and community materials, with phased marketing campaigns launching throughout 2026.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information about the Community Marketing Initiative, contact Marketing Director Marcus Petty at 785-827-9310 or email mpetty@salinakansas.org.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770220835718.png" alt="Salina Area Chamber of Commerce logos, 2026" />
 <figcaption>Salina Area Chamber of Commerce logos, 2026</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Area Chamber of CommerceThe Salina Area Chamber of Commerce officially unveiled a new community brand as part of the Community Marketing Initiative (CMI), marking a major step forward in telling Salina’s story and positioning the community for long term growth.&nbsp;The new brand, developed by Chamber staff in collaboration with community partners, reflects Salina’s authentic character, momentum, and potential. It is designed to strengthen local pride while reshaping how Salina is perceived by visitors, job seekers, families, and businesses across the region&nbsp; and beyond.&nbsp;Key elements of the new branding, such as logo, fonts, and colors, will be utilized prominently for a new website (set to launch in the spring) and future digital marketing materials highlighting Salina and&nbsp; Saline County.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Good, bad, or indifferent, communities have reputations just like individuals and businesses do,”&nbsp; said Renee Duxler, President &amp; CEO of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce. “This initiative is about clearly defining who we are today, celebrating what makes Salina unique, and intentionally sharing that story in a way that builds pride locally and curiosity externally.”&nbsp;<h2>Community Marketing Initiative Goals</h2>The Community Marketing Initiative is a comprehensive, long-term digital marketing effort focused on three primary goals:&nbsp;• Attracting visitors and new residents, particularly young professionals and families.• Supporting workforce recruitment and economic development.• Increasing resident pride and community engagement.The initiative emphasizes authentic storytelling, data-driven strategy, and collaboration with local businesses, organizations, and institutions throughout Saline County.<h2>A Digital-First Strategy</h2>At the heart of the CMI is a robust digital strategy that will include:&nbsp;• The development and launch of a new SEO-optimized community website in spring 2026.• Targeted digital and Google advertising campaigns.• Ongoing social media storytelling and community-focused content.• A comprehensive photo and video library showcasing Salina’s people, places, and quality of life.• Blog content designed to improve search visibility and share real stories from the community.“This is about meeting people where they are, on their screens, while staying true to who we are,”&nbsp; Duxler said. “A strong brand and consistent digital presence are critical tools for recruitment,&nbsp; retention, tourism, and long-term economic vitality.”&nbsp;<h2>Building Pride From the Inside Out</h2>The new brand and marketing initiative are designed with not only external audiences in mind, but residents as well. By highlighting Salina’s arts scene, downtown growth, career opportunities, public spaces, and quality of life, the initiative aims to foster a sense of ownership and belonging among those who already call Salina home.&nbsp;“When residents believe in the brand and see themselves in it, they become our best ambassadors,”&nbsp; Duxler added. “That word-of-mouth advocacy is incredibly powerful.”&nbsp;<h2>What’s Next</h2>The CMI will begin rolling out the new brand across digital platforms and community materials, with phased marketing campaigns launching throughout 2026.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information about the Community Marketing Initiative, contact Marketing Director Marcus Petty at 785-827-9310 or email mpetty@salinakansas.org.&nbsp;

Chamber of Commerce announces new community brand, "building pride from the inside out"

NAME:&nbsp;Coble,Matthew James Wayne

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGE: Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit; Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; No Proof Of Insurance; Operate a MV w/o a valid license; Transporting an open container

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Transmit/commun false info to req emerg srvc

Following is recent booking activity for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salinecountyks.gov/Sheriff-Office/Online-search/Booking-Activities">Saline County Jail</a>, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770522831162.jpeg" alt="Coble,Matthew James Wayne (38)" />
 <figcaption>Coble,Matthew James Wayne (38)</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Coble,Matthew James WayneREQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770522872571.jpeg" alt="Renfro,Joshua Rey (43)" />
 <figcaption>Renfro,Joshua Rey (43)</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Renfro,Joshua ReyREQUESTED CHARGE: Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770522915080.jpeg" alt="Tapia,Jesus Sanchez (40)" />
 <figcaption>Tapia,Jesus Sanchez (40)</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Tapia,Jesus SanchezREQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit; Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; No Proof Of Insurance; Operate a MV w/o a valid license; Transporting an open container<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770522963690.jpeg" alt="Wiedow,Tessa Rae (44)" />
 <figcaption>Wiedow,Tessa Rae (44)</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Wiedow,Tessa RaeREQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Transmit/commun false info to req emerg srvc

Saline County Jail Bookings, February 7

The Salina Arts &amp; Humanities Foundation has approved over $30,000 in Horizons Grants for one local artist and five non-profit organizations. The Foundation also authorized an additional $7,000 for Enrichment Grant applications in 2026.

Horizons Grants support initiatives that demonstrate a commitment to artistic excellence and community involvement by engaging audience members as active participants. Applicants are also encouraged to develop strategic partnerships to strengthen the reach of their local activities.

Organizational Project grants funded for 2026 are:

Salina Art Center, $6,000 for Tell Me What You Think of Me

Salina Art Center seeks funding for a new exhibition, “Tell Me What You Think of Me,” by Ann Resnick and curated by Dr. Ksenya Gurschtein, which will explore how we perceive and evaluate one another through a combination of art, psychology, and community participation. The funds will support artist honorariums, travel, lodging, marketing, and programming costs.

The Land Institute, $6,000 for Prairie Festival 2026

The Horizons grant will support community-centered arts programming for Prairie Festival 2026, The Land Institute’s 50th-anniversary gathering in Salina. Funding will help activate artist-led installations and gathering spaces through a call for proposal process curated by Prairie Festival Fellow and artist Kelly Yarbrough, fostering engagement between attendees, artists, and the Kansas landscape. In collaboration with regional partners, this project will expand opportunities for local residents and visitors to experience place-based art and dialogue about humanity’s relationship with the land.

Salina Symphony, $6,000 for Rach &amp; Rhapsody

The Salina Symphony will present a concert titled “Rach &amp; Rhapsody” in November of 2026 at the Stiefel Theatre. The program will feature Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 and Michael Schachter’s “Being

and Becoming: Rhapsody for Piano &amp; Orchestra,” both featuring guest artist Nachito Herrera. The Symphony will collaborate with McPherson College to broaden the project’s reach and strengthen its impact across the region. Herrera will serve as Guest Clinician for the McPherson College Jazz Festival and will perform a free Friday evening recital at McPherson College in partnership with the Lingenfelter Artist Series.

Salina Innovation Foundation, $3,000 for The Temple’s Historic Elevator Reimagined Sculpture Project

The Temple’s Historic Elevator Reimagined Sculpture Project will commission local artist Bob Peck to transform the Temple’s original 1927 elevator car into a permanent, interactive educational sculpture. The work will invite hands-on engagement—pressing buttons, turning the wheel, and discovering stories about the building’s history and its transformation. By preserving and reimagining this distinctive artifact rather than retiring it, the project advances its mission to honor the Temple’s legacy while engaging the community in its future. Grant funds will support artist commissioning, design and fabrication, and installation.

Salina Media Connection, $6,000 for Legacy on the Hill, The Marymount College Story

The project will tell the story of Marymount College, the campus, its students, its programs, their impact, and the College's legacy. Tom Fleming and Greg Stephens are the executive producers through Salina Media Connection, formerly Access Television of Salina, in collaboration with Method Productions. They plan to take photos of the buildings, interview alumni, research and use media artifacts, and include drone photography in the final production. When completed, we will screen the documentary at the Salina Art Center Cinema, show it at selected retirement/assisted living centers, and present it at the Sisters of St. Joseph Mother House in Concordia.

Lana Jordan Developing Artist grants funded for 2026 are:

Morgan Allred, $3,000 for Froze in Poetic Prose: an Anthological Production

Froze in Poetic Prose; an Anthological Production will be a short film that captures the spirit, struggles, and hopes of this era through the voices of Kansas poets. The project will bring together a local cinematographer, four Kansas poets, and Morgan as a poet and narrator, weaving everyone’s work into a visual anthology. This film will serve as both a cultural timepiece and an innovative exploration of poetry on screen, using cinematic storytelling to preserve and amplify Kansas voices for future generations.

Enrichment Grants available for application – February 1 through November 15:

The Salina Arts &amp; Humanities Foundation approved funding for Enrichment Grants for artists and organizations in Saline County, Kansas, in 2026. Salina Arts &amp; Humanities staff review Enrichment Grant applications on a rolling basis from February 1 through November 15 each year. For 2026, artist applicants may apply for up to $1,000 to support the presentation of work, study, training, artistic promotion, purchase of equipment, or travel. Non-profit organizations

are eligible to apply for up to $500. Enrichment Grant guidelines and applications are available online, <a href="https://www.salinaarts.com/horizons-grants-program/">https://www.salinaarts.com/horizons-grants-program/</a>.

The agency will again accept Organizational Project and Developing Artists Grant applications in November 2026. All grant guidelines and applications are available at <a href="http://salinaarts.org">salinaarts.org</a>.

Horizons Grants are made possible by private contributions from more than 50 individuals, foundations, and businesses in partnership with the Salina Arts &amp; Humanities Foundation. The Foundation has provided more than one million dollars in support of more than 550 Horizons Grants since 1986. Salina Arts &amp; Humanities staff provide grant oversight and administration for Saline County artists and organizations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615777235356.jpeg" alt="Salina Arts &amp; Humanities&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Salina Arts &amp; Humanities&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Arts &amp; HumanitiesThe Salina Arts &amp; Humanities Foundation has approved over $30,000 in Horizons Grants for one local artist and five non-profit organizations. The Foundation also authorized an additional $7,000 for Enrichment Grant applications in 2026.Horizons Grants support initiatives that demonstrate a commitment to artistic excellence and community involvement by engaging audience members as active participants. Applicants are also encouraged to develop strategic partnerships to strengthen the reach of their local activities.Organizational Project grants funded for 2026 are:Salina Art Center, $6,000 for Tell Me What You Think of MeSalina Art Center seeks funding for a new exhibition, “Tell Me What You Think of Me,” by Ann Resnick and curated by Dr. Ksenya Gurschtein, which will explore how we perceive and evaluate one another through a combination of art, psychology, and community participation. The funds will support artist honorariums, travel, lodging, marketing, and programming costs.The Land Institute, $6,000 for Prairie Festival 2026The Horizons grant will support community-centered arts programming for Prairie Festival 2026, The Land Institute’s 50th-anniversary gathering in Salina. Funding will help activate artist-led installations and gathering spaces through a call for proposal process curated by Prairie Festival Fellow and artist Kelly Yarbrough, fostering engagement between attendees, artists, and the Kansas landscape. In collaboration with regional partners, this project will expand opportunities for local residents and visitors to experience place-based art and dialogue about humanity’s relationship with the land.Salina Symphony, $6,000 for Rach &amp; RhapsodyThe Salina Symphony will present a concert titled “Rach &amp; Rhapsody” in November of 2026 at the Stiefel Theatre. The program will feature Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 and Michael Schachter’s “Beingand Becoming: Rhapsody for Piano &amp; Orchestra,” both featuring guest artist Nachito Herrera. The Symphony will collaborate with McPherson College to broaden the project’s reach and strengthen its impact across the region. Herrera will serve as Guest Clinician for the McPherson College Jazz Festival and will perform a free Friday evening recital at McPherson College in partnership with the Lingenfelter Artist Series.<h2>Salina Innovation Foundation, $3,000 for The Temple’s Historic Elevator Reimagined Sculpture Project</h2>The Temple’s Historic Elevator Reimagined Sculpture Project will commission local artist Bob Peck to transform the Temple’s original 1927 elevator car into a permanent, interactive educational sculpture. The work will invite hands-on engagement—pressing buttons, turning the wheel, and discovering stories about the building’s history and its transformation. By preserving and reimagining this distinctive artifact rather than retiring it, the project advances its mission to honor the Temple’s legacy while engaging the community in its future. Grant funds will support artist commissioning, design and fabrication, and installation.<h2>Salina Media Connection, $6,000 for Legacy on the Hill, The Marymount College Story</h2>The project will tell the story of Marymount College, the campus, its students, its programs, their impact, and the College's legacy. Tom Fleming and Greg Stephens are the executive producers through Salina Media Connection, formerly Access Television of Salina, in collaboration with Method Productions. They plan to take photos of the buildings, interview alumni, research and use media artifacts, and include drone photography in the final production. When completed, we will screen the documentary at the Salina Art Center Cinema, show it at selected retirement/assisted living centers, and present it at the Sisters of St. Joseph Mother House in Concordia.Lana Jordan Developing Artist grants funded for 2026 are:<h2>Morgan Allred, $3,000 for Froze in Poetic Prose: an Anthological Production</h2>Froze in Poetic Prose; an Anthological Production will be a short film that captures the spirit, struggles, and hopes of this era through the voices of Kansas poets. The project will bring together a local cinematographer, four Kansas poets, and Morgan as a poet and narrator, weaving everyone’s work into a visual anthology. This film will serve as both a cultural timepiece and an innovative exploration of poetry on screen, using cinematic storytelling to preserve and amplify Kansas voices for future generations.Enrichment Grants available for application – February 1 through November 15:The Salina Arts &amp; Humanities Foundation approved funding for Enrichment Grants for artists and organizations in Saline County, Kansas, in 2026. Salina Arts &amp; Humanities staff review Enrichment Grant applications on a rolling basis from February 1 through November 15 each year. For 2026, artist applicants may apply for up to $1,000 to support the presentation of work, study, training, artistic promotion, purchase of equipment, or travel. Non-profit organizationsare eligible to apply for up to $500. Enrichment Grant guidelines and applications are available online, <a href="https://www.salinaarts.com/horizons-grants-program/">https://www.salinaarts.com/horizons-grants-program/</a>.The agency will again accept Organizational Project and Developing Artists Grant applications in November 2026. All grant guidelines and applications are available at <a href="http://salinaarts.org">salinaarts.org</a>.Horizons Grants are made possible by private contributions from more than 50 individuals, foundations, and businesses in partnership with the Salina Arts &amp; Humanities Foundation. The Foundation has provided more than one million dollars in support of more than 550 Horizons Grants since 1986. Salina Arts &amp; Humanities staff provide grant oversight and administration for Saline County artists and organizations.For questions about Horizons Grants, please call Anna Pauscher Morawitz at Salina Arts &amp; Humanities at 785-309-5770 between 8:00 am - Noon and 1:00 – 5:00 pm. or email anna.pauscher@salina.org.

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