Showers and storms will affect the region tonight with better chances over southeast Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679615182987.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>National Weather ServiceShowers and storms will affect the region tonight with better chances over southeast Kansas.

NWS: Slight chance for showers tonight

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

As Jessica Martin sees it, the Greater Salina Community Foundation's Match Madness is a team effort.

From her staff, which begins planning the event in October, to the representatives of the 92 charities to the business who match their employees' donations, to the donors themselves, all help make Salina's largest fundraising event a success.

And this year, more than 400 fifth graders joined the team.

Martin, who is president and executive director of the Greater Salina Community Foundation, said that by the event's end, 400 to 450 Salina USD 305 fifth graders will have been on-site at the Salina Fieldhouse, 140 N. Fifth Street. 

Thanks to a donation from Ken and Karen Ebert, each fifth grader received $10 to give to one of the 92 charities represented at this year's Match Madness event. The students toured all of the charity booths at the event and then decided to which charity they wanted to donate.

"The kids asked great questions. They've talked about how much fun they've had. They didn't know the different charities in Salina and what they did," Martin said. "It's just been fun and rewarding to watch them get excited about giving."

Martin said the goal of the project was to get the students thinking about charities and what it means to give back.

When it comes to charities, this year is the largest for Match Madness.

"We had 92 participate. That's the most we've ever had," Martin said. "And then we have six businesses that are sponsoring all of their employee donations at a dollar-to-dollar match, so that's increased. It just seems like every year, we have more and more charities or community members stepping up to participate."

Martin said that including the money raised during Thursday's event, Match Madness' 12-year run will have an estimated impact in Saline County of close to $4 million.

"We are just so thankful for the donors in the area who support all these charities," she said.

If you would like to participate in Match Madness, you have until 7 p.m. Thursday to go in person to the event in the Salina Fieldhouse, 140 N. Fifth Street.

You also can donate online until 11:59 p.m. Thursday at <a href="http://www.matchmadnessgscf.org">www.matchmadnessgscf.org</a>.

Mail donations also will count, but only if the envelope is postmarked on March 23, 2023.

Why is it important to make donations to your favorite local charities on Thursday?

All donations made during Match Madness 2023 will go to each charity’s permanent endowed fund held at the Greater Salina Community Foundation. These funds are permanently invested to produce a steady stream of income that charities can count on every year, which eases the pressure to raise annual funds, according to information from Greater Salina Community Foundation.

Additionally, thanks to a group of private donors, Match Madness also will have $300,000 in matching funds. Those funds will be used to match proportionally up to 50 percent of each donation made to one of the 92 participating charities. Those funds can be accessed instantly by the charities to help meet immediate needs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679608542996.jpeg" alt="Some of the USD 305&nbsp; fifth graders who participated in Thursday's Match Madness event in the Salina Fieldhouse. Photos by Leslie Eikleberry/Salina Post" />
 <figcaption>Some of the USD 305&nbsp; fifth graders who participated in Thursday's Match Madness event in the Salina Fieldhouse. Photos by Leslie Eikleberry/Salina Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostAs Jessica Martin sees it, the Greater Salina Community Foundation's Match Madness is a team effort.From her staff, which begins planning the event in October, to the representatives of the 92 charities to the business who match their employees' donations, to the donors themselves, all help make Salina's largest fundraising event a success.And this year, more than 400 fifth graders joined the team.Martin, who is president and executive director of the Greater Salina Community Foundation, said that by the event's end, 400 to 450 Salina USD 305 fifth graders will have been on-site at the Salina Fieldhouse, 140 N. Fifth Street. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679608712391.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Thanks to a donation from Ken and Karen Ebert, each fifth grader received $10 to give to one of the 92 charities represented at this year's Match Madness event. The students toured all of the charity booths at the event and then decided to which charity they wanted to donate."The kids asked great questions. They've talked about how much fun they've had. They didn't know the different charities in Salina and what they did," Martin said. "It's just been fun and rewarding to watch them get excited about giving."Martin said the goal of the project was to get the students thinking about charities and what it means to give back.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679608749147.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>When it comes to charities, this year is the largest for Match Madness."We had 92 participate. That's the most we've ever had," Martin said. "And then we have six businesses that are sponsoring all of their employee donations at a dollar-to-dollar match, so that's increased. It just seems like every year, we have more and more charities or community members stepping up to participate."Martin said that including the money raised during Thursday's event, Match Madness' 12-year run will have an estimated impact in Saline County of close to $4 million."We are just so thankful for the donors in the area who support all these charities," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679608785549.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you would like to participate in Match Madness, you have until 7 p.m. Thursday to go in person to the event in the Salina Fieldhouse, 140 N. Fifth Street.You also can donate online until 11:59 p.m. Thursday at <a href="http://www.matchmadnessgscf.org">www.matchmadnessgscf.org</a>.Mail donations also will count, but only if the envelope is postmarked on March 23, 2023.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679608832086.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Why is it important to make donations to your favorite local charities on Thursday?All donations made during Match Madness 2023 will go to each charity’s permanent endowed fund held at the Greater Salina Community Foundation. These funds are permanently invested to produce a steady stream of income that charities can count on every year, which eases the pressure to raise annual funds, according to information from Greater Salina Community Foundation.Additionally, thanks to a group of private donors, Match Madness also will have $300,000 in matching funds. Those funds will be used to match proportionally up to 50 percent of each donation made to one of the 92 participating charities. Those funds can be accessed instantly by the charities to help meet immediate needs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679608873014.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679608897082.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679608928451.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679608968940.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679609010279.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679609058480.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679609120305.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679609174610.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679609198639.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Match Madness: USD 305 fifth graders learn about giving

Career and Technical Education (CTE) and postsecondary opportunities will be the topic of the next USD 305 SPS Chat.

The public event is scheduled for 5:15 p.m. April 3 at Salina South High School, 730 E. Magnolia Road.

USD 305 Superintendent Linn Exline is scheduled to provide an update about opportunities available to Salina Central and Salina South students.

Additionally, the event will include the following, according to information from USD 305.

●Experiences shared by students currently in CTE programs

●An overview of postsecondary preparation programs

●Hors d’oeuvres prepared by the South High School Culinary Arts Program

Families of students in grades seven and eight and community members are encouraged to attend, the district noted.

"Postsecondary planning is intentional at Salina Public Schools (SPS). Career interests and exploration begins in elementary school. Middle school students create electronic portfolios in Xello that they revisit and refine throughout high school. CTE opportunities include expanded pathways and industry-recognized credential options. State-of-the-art CTE facilities at our high schools include A/V production, construction, culinary arts, drafting, nursing and welding," USD 305 noted in a news release this morning.

"One size does not fit all and we know that having many choices is important. Choices at SPS include earning a credential or associate’s degree, completing a CTE pathway, preparing for college or university or preparing to enter the workforce or military," the district noted.

By SALINA POST Career and Technical Education (CTE) and postsecondary opportunities will be the topic of the next USD 305 SPS Chat.The public event is scheduled for 5:15 p.m. April 3 at Salina South High School, 730 E. Magnolia Road.USD 305 Superintendent Linn Exline is scheduled to provide an update about opportunities available to Salina Central and Salina South students.Additionally, the event will include the following, according to information from USD 305.●Experiences shared by students currently in CTE programs●An overview of postsecondary preparation programs●Hors d’oeuvres prepared by the South High School Culinary Arts ProgramFamilies of students in grades seven and eight and community members are encouraged to attend, the district noted."Postsecondary planning is intentional at Salina Public Schools (SPS). Career interests and exploration begins in elementary school. Middle school students create electronic portfolios in Xello that they revisit and refine throughout high school. CTE opportunities include expanded pathways and industry-recognized credential options. State-of-the-art CTE facilities at our high schools include A/V production, construction, culinary arts, drafting, nursing and welding," USD 305 noted in a news release this morning."One size does not fit all and we know that having many choices is important. Choices at SPS include earning a credential or associate’s degree, completing a CTE pathway, preparing for college or university or preparing to enter the workforce or military," the district noted.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679589253702.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

CTE, postsecondary opportunites topics of next SPS Chat

A Salina man was transported to the hospital after a scooter he was driving struck a bus in a parking lot Wednesday evening.

A 2019 Ford Econoline E350 bus driven by Joseph Funk, 59, of Salina, was in the Sunset Plaza parking lot, 1221 W. Crawford Street, and sitting at the stop sign waiting to turn onto S. Broadway Boulevard when a northbound 2022 scooter driven by Nelvin Richardson, 63, of Salina, turned into the parking lot, striking the bus, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.

The wreck occurred at approximately 7 p.m. Wednesday.

Richardson was injured and transported by EMS to Salina Regional Health Center, Forrester said. Funk and a 67-year-old female passenger in the bus were not injured, he added.

The bus sustained minor damage to the side and the scooter sustained some damage, Forrester said.

Richardson was cited for not having a driver's license and for inattentive driving, Forrester said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA Salina man was transported to the hospital after a scooter he was driving struck a bus in a parking lot Wednesday evening.A 2019 Ford Econoline E350 bus driven by Joseph Funk, 59, of Salina, was in the Sunset Plaza parking lot, 1221 W. Crawford Street, and sitting at the stop sign waiting to turn onto S. Broadway Boulevard when a northbound 2022 scooter driven by Nelvin Richardson, 63, of Salina, turned into the parking lot, striking the bus, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.The wreck occurred at approximately 7 p.m. Wednesday.Richardson was injured and transported by EMS to Salina Regional Health Center, Forrester said. Funk and a 67-year-old female passenger in the bus were not injured, he added.The bus sustained minor damage to the side and the scooter sustained some damage, Forrester said.Richardson was cited for not having a driver's license and for inattentive driving, Forrester said.

Salina man injured when scooter strikes bus Wednesday

Police are looking for the person who stole thousands of pounds of scrap metal in north Salina late last week.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that sometime Thursday or Friday, someone stole approximately 25,000 pounds of scrap metal from bins on a lot in the 500 block of N. Ohio Street. The scrap metal and the lot are owned by Great Plains Manufacturing.

The scrap metal was valued at $3,000 Forrester said.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice are looking for the person who stole thousands of pounds of scrap metal in north Salina late last week.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that sometime Thursday or Friday, someone stole approximately 25,000 pounds of scrap metal from bins on a lot in the 500 block of N. Ohio Street. The scrap metal and the lot are owned by Great Plains Manufacturing.The scrap metal was valued at $3,000 Forrester said.

Thousands of pounds of scrap metal stolen from north Salina lot

ABILENE - Learn about eastern European Easter eggs and how to make them during a class Sunday in Abilene.

The Arts Council of Dickinson County is offering a Pysanky class at 1 p.m. Sunday at 401 N. Cedar Street. During the three-to-four-hour class, participants will learn the history of the Pysanky, which is rooted in eastern Europe, as well as design and create their own pieces of artwork.

For more information or to reserve your space in the class, call (785)263-1884, text (785) 280-0543 or email <a href="mailto:artscouncilofdc@gmail.com">artscouncilofdc@gmail.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679539146457.png" alt="Photo courtesy Arts Council of Dickinson County" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Arts Council of Dickinson County</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTABILENE - Learn about eastern European Easter eggs and how to make them during a class Sunday in Abilene.The Arts Council of Dickinson County is offering a Pysanky class at 1 p.m. Sunday at 401 N. Cedar Street. During the three-to-four-hour class, participants will learn the history of the Pysanky, which is rooted in eastern Europe, as well as design and create their own pieces of artwork.The cost of the class is $40 per person.For more information or to reserve your space in the class, call (785)263-1884, text (785) 280-0543 or email <a href="mailto:artscouncilofdc@gmail.com">artscouncilofdc@gmail.com</a>.

Arts Council of Dickinson County offers Pysanky class

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail.

All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

NAME:&nbsp;Crook, Christopher Michael; 38; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Use/poss drug paraphernalia/human body Poss of stimulant; 1 prior conviction

NAME:&nbsp;Dennis, Trevor Leon; 29; Bennington CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Gray, Joseph Lamond; 51; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Probation Violation Use/poss drug paraphernalia/human body Interfere with LEO; False report of LEO for action Poss of marijuana Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warrant

NAME:&nbsp;Grigsby, William Henry; 53; Pulco CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

NAME:&nbsp;Hurt, Timothy Eugene; 39; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Peterson, Nicole Marie; 32; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Poss of marijuana; 2 or more prior convictions Transporting an open container

NAME:&nbsp;Reinbold, Dalton Lyle; 25; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; DUI; 3rd in 10y;comp evidence blood/breath .08+ Driving While Suspended Driving while habitual violator No Proof Of Insurance Transporting an open container Unlawful acts: vehicle registration violation Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner

NAME:&nbsp;Simmons, Jaya Marie; 22; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Probation Violation Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Toynton, Jedidiah Dale; 34; Mankato CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail.All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679578246229.jpeg" alt="Crook, Christopher Michael" />
 <figcaption>Crook, Christopher Michael</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Crook, Christopher Michael; 38; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Use/poss drug paraphernalia/human body Poss of stimulant; 1 prior conviction <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679578383636.jpeg" alt="Dennis, Trevor Leon" />
 <figcaption>Dennis, Trevor Leon</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Dennis, Trevor Leon; 29; Bennington CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679578429075.jpeg" alt="Gray, Joseph Lamond" />
 <figcaption>Gray, Joseph Lamond</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Gray, Joseph Lamond; 51; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Probation Violation Use/poss drug paraphernalia/human body Interfere with LEO; False report of LEO for action Poss of marijuana Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warrant <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679578514009.jpeg" alt="Grigsby, William Henry" />
 <figcaption>Grigsby, William Henry</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Grigsby, William Henry; 53; Pulco CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679578559042.jpeg" alt="Hurt, Timothy Eugene" />
 <figcaption>Hurt, Timothy Eugene</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Hurt, Timothy Eugene; 39; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679578603211.jpeg" alt="Peterson, Nicole Marie" />
 <figcaption>Peterson, Nicole Marie</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Peterson, Nicole Marie; 32; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Poss of marijuana; 2 or more prior convictions Transporting an open container <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679578672113.jpeg" alt="Reinbold, Dalton Lyle" />
 <figcaption>Reinbold, Dalton Lyle</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Reinbold, Dalton Lyle; 25; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; DUI; 3rd in 10y;comp evidence blood/breath .08+ Driving While Suspended Driving while habitual violator No Proof Of Insurance Transporting an open container Unlawful acts: vehicle registration violation Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679578795769.jpeg" alt="Simmons, Jaya Marie" />
 <figcaption>Simmons, Jaya Marie</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Simmons, Jaya Marie; 22; Salina CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp; Probation Violation Failure to appear <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679578853135.jpeg" alt="Toynton, Jedidiah Dale" />
 <figcaption>Toynton, Jedidiah Dale</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Toynton, Jedidiah Dale; 34; Mankato CHARGES REQUESTED:&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact

Saline County Booking Activity, March 23

Today is Thursday, March 23, the 82nd day of 2023. There are 283 days left in the year.

On March 23, 1919, Benito Mussolini founded his Fascist political movement in Milan, Italy.

In 1775, Patrick Henry delivered an address to the Virginia Provincial Convention in which he is said to have declared, "Give me liberty, or give me death!"

In 1806, explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, having reached the Pacific coast, began their journey back east.

In 1933, the German Reichstag adopted the Enabling Act, which effectively granted Adolf Hitler dictatorial powers.

In 1942, the first Japanese-Americans evacuated by the U.S. Army during World War II arrived at the internment camp in Manzanar, California.

In 1965, America's first two-person space mission took place as Gemini 3 blasted off with astronauts Virgil I. "Gus" Grissom and John W. Young aboard for a nearly 5-hour flight.

In 1981, the U.S. Supreme Court, in H.L. v. Matheson, ruled that states could require, with some exceptions, parental notification when teenage girls seek abortions.

In 1993, scientists announced they'd found the renegade gene that causes Huntington's disease.

In 1994, Aeroflot Flight 593, an Airbus A310, crashed in Siberia with the loss of all 75 people on board; it turned out that a pilot's teenage son who was allowed to sit at the controls had accidentally disengaged the autopilot, causing loss of control.

In 1998, "Titanic" tied an Academy Awards record by winning 11 Oscars, including best picture, director (James Cameron) and song ("My Heart Will Go On").

In 2003, during the Iraq War, a U.S. Army maintenance convoy was ambushed in Nasiriyah; 11 soldiers were killed, including Pfc. Lori Ann Piestewa; six were captured, including Pfc. Jessica Lynch, who was rescued on April 1, 2003.

In 2010, claiming a historic triumph, President Barack Obama signed the Affordable Care Act, a $938 billion health care overhaul.

In 2020, President Donald Trump said he wanted to reopen the country for business in weeks, not months; he asserted that continued closures could result in more deaths than the coronavirus itself. Britain became the latest European country to go into effective lockdown, as Prime Minister Boris Johnson ordered the closure of most retail stores and banned public gatherings.

Ten years ago: President Barack Obama concluded a four-day visit to the Middle East as he marveled at the beauty of one of the region's most stunning sites, the fabled ancient city of Petra in Jordan. Pope Francis traveled from the Vatican to Castel Gandolfo south of Rome to have lunch with his predecessor, Benedict XVI. Boris Berezovsky, 67, a self-exiled and outspoken Russian tycoon who'd had a bitter falling out with Russian President Vladimir Putin, was found dead at his home in Ascot, England.

Five years ago: A French-Moroccan gunman killed four people before being killed by police in southern France who stormed a supermarket where he had taken hostages; the victims included a police officer who had swapped himself for a hostage being held in the supermarket. President Donald Trump released an order banning most transgender troops from serving in the military except under "limited circumstances." The online classified ads site Craigslist removed its personals section; the action came after the U.S. Senate passed an anti-sex-trafficking bill that could hold the website and others responsible for illegal activity.

One year ago: NATO estimated that 7,000 to 15,000 Russian soldiers were killed in four weeks of fighting in Ukraine, where the country's defenders put up stiffer-than-expected resistance and denied Moscow the lightning victory it hoped for. Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson faced a barrage of Republican questioning about her sentencing of criminal defendants, as her history-making bid to join the Supreme Court veered from lofty constitutional questions to attacks on her motivations as a judge. Madeleine Albright, a child refugee from Nazi- and then Soviet-dominated eastern Europe who rose to become the first female U.S. secretary of state and a mentor to many current and former American statesmen and women, died of cancer at 84.

Today's Birthdays: Movie director Mark Rydell is 94. International Motorsports Hall of Famer Craig Breedlove is 86. Former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson is 71. Singer Chaka Khan is 70. Actor Amanda Plummer is 66. Actor Catherine Keener is 64. Actor Hope Davis is 59. Actor Richard Grieco is 58. Actor Marin Hinkle is 57. Rock singer-musician Damon Albarn (Blur) is 55. Actor Kelly Perine is 54. Actor-singer Melissa Errico is 53. Rock musician John Humphrey (The Nixons) is 53. Bandleader Reggie Watts (TV: "The Late Late Show With James Corden") is 51. Actor Randall Park is 49. Actor Michelle Monaghan is 47. Actor Keri Russell is 47. Actor Anastasia Griffith is 45. Gossip columnist-blogger Perez Hilton is 45. Actor Nicholle Tom is 45. Actor Brandon Dirden is 45. Country singer Brett Young is 42. Actor Nicolas Wright is 41. Actor Ben Rappaport is 37. NBA point guard Kyrie Irving is 31.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Thursday, March 23, the 82nd day of 2023. There are 283 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On March 23, 1919, Benito Mussolini founded his Fascist political movement in Milan, Italy.On this date:In 1775, Patrick Henry delivered an address to the Virginia Provincial Convention in which he is said to have declared, "Give me liberty, or give me death!"In 1806, explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, having reached the Pacific coast, began their journey back east.In 1933, the German Reichstag adopted the Enabling Act, which effectively granted Adolf Hitler dictatorial powers.In 1942, the first Japanese-Americans evacuated by the U.S. Army during World War II arrived at the internment camp in Manzanar, California.In 1965, America's first two-person space mission took place as Gemini 3 blasted off with astronauts Virgil I. "Gus" Grissom and John W. Young aboard for a nearly 5-hour flight.In 1981, the U.S. Supreme Court, in H.L. v. Matheson, ruled that states could require, with some exceptions, parental notification when teenage girls seek abortions.In 1993, scientists announced they'd found the renegade gene that causes Huntington's disease.In 1994, Aeroflot Flight 593, an Airbus A310, crashed in Siberia with the loss of all 75 people on board; it turned out that a pilot's teenage son who was allowed to sit at the controls had accidentally disengaged the autopilot, causing loss of control.In 1998, "Titanic" tied an Academy Awards record by winning 11 Oscars, including best picture, director (James Cameron) and song ("My Heart Will Go On").In 2003, during the Iraq War, a U.S. Army maintenance convoy was ambushed in Nasiriyah; 11 soldiers were killed, including Pfc. Lori Ann Piestewa; six were captured, including Pfc. Jessica Lynch, who was rescued on April 1, 2003.In 2010, claiming a historic triumph, President Barack Obama signed the Affordable Care Act, a $938 billion health care overhaul.In 2020, President Donald Trump said he wanted to reopen the country for business in weeks, not months; he asserted that continued closures could result in more deaths than the coronavirus itself. Britain became the latest European country to go into effective lockdown, as Prime Minister Boris Johnson ordered the closure of most retail stores and banned public gatherings.Ten years ago: President Barack Obama concluded a four-day visit to the Middle East as he marveled at the beauty of one of the region's most stunning sites, the fabled ancient city of Petra in Jordan. Pope Francis traveled from the Vatican to Castel Gandolfo south of Rome to have lunch with his predecessor, Benedict XVI. Boris Berezovsky, 67, a self-exiled and outspoken Russian tycoon who'd had a bitter falling out with Russian President Vladimir Putin, was found dead at his home in Ascot, England.Five years ago: A French-Moroccan gunman killed four people before being killed by police in southern France who stormed a supermarket where he had taken hostages; the victims included a police officer who had swapped himself for a hostage being held in the supermarket. President Donald Trump released an order banning most transgender troops from serving in the military except under "limited circumstances." The online classified ads site Craigslist removed its personals section; the action came after the U.S. Senate passed an anti-sex-trafficking bill that could hold the website and others responsible for illegal activity.One year ago: NATO estimated that 7,000 to 15,000 Russian soldiers were killed in four weeks of fighting in Ukraine, where the country's defenders put up stiffer-than-expected resistance and denied Moscow the lightning victory it hoped for. Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson faced a barrage of Republican questioning about her sentencing of criminal defendants, as her history-making bid to join the Supreme Court veered from lofty constitutional questions to attacks on her motivations as a judge. Madeleine Albright, a child refugee from Nazi- and then Soviet-dominated eastern Europe who rose to become the first female U.S. secretary of state and a mentor to many current and former American statesmen and women, died of cancer at 84.Today's Birthdays: Movie director Mark Rydell is 94. International Motorsports Hall of Famer Craig Breedlove is 86. Former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson is 71. Singer Chaka Khan is 70. Actor Amanda Plummer is 66. Actor Catherine Keener is 64. Actor Hope Davis is 59. Actor Richard Grieco is 58. Actor Marin Hinkle is 57. Rock singer-musician Damon Albarn (Blur) is 55. Actor Kelly Perine is 54. Actor-singer Melissa Errico is 53. Rock musician John Humphrey (The Nixons) is 53. Bandleader Reggie Watts (TV: "The Late Late Show With James Corden") is 51. Actor Randall Park is 49. Actor Michelle Monaghan is 47. Actor Keri Russell is 47. Actor Anastasia Griffith is 45. Gossip columnist-blogger Perez Hilton is 45. Actor Nicholle Tom is 45. Actor Brandon Dirden is 45. Country singer Brett Young is 42. Actor Nicolas Wright is 41. Actor Ben Rappaport is 37. NBA point guard Kyrie Irving is 31.

Today in History - March 23

Get all the pancakes you care to eat during the Kansas Honor Flight's 5th annual March Pancake Madness on Saturday in Salina.

The event, sponsored by Interim HealthCare Home Care and Hospice, is scheduled for 4-7 p.m. Saturday in the Salina VFW, 1108 W. Crawford Street. A $7 per person donation is suggested for all the pancakes you want to eat, according to information from Interim HealthCare Home Care and Hospice.

The event also is to include a bake sale and live and silent auctions.

Proceeds will go to send World War II, Korea, and Vietnam veterans to Washington, D.C., at no charge.

By SALINA POSTGet all the pancakes you care to eat during the Kansas Honor Flight's 5th annual March Pancake Madness on Saturday in Salina.The event, sponsored by Interim HealthCare Home Care and Hospice, is scheduled for 4-7 p.m. Saturday in the Salina VFW, 1108 W. Crawford Street. A $7 per person donation is suggested for all the pancakes you want to eat, according to information from Interim HealthCare Home Care and Hospice.The event also is to include a bake sale and live and silent auctions.Proceeds will go to send World War II, Korea, and Vietnam veterans to Washington, D.C., at no charge.

Pancake event to benefit Kansas Honor Flight program

We have openings in Salina – Abilene – Beloit – and Concordia

· Equipment Exchange and Delivery Specialist

· Direct Support Professionals – needed in Community Living, Independent Living, Day Services

We offer many options for employment – you can work as little or as much as you want!

For more information, or to apply, please go to&nbsp;<a href="http://occk.com/">OCCK.com</a>&nbsp;and click on the CAREERS tab.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592535783410.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>We have openings in Salina – Abilene – Beloit – and ConcordiaWe are currently looking for:· Speech Language Therapist· Occupational Therapist· Equipment Exchange and Delivery Specialist· Targeted Case Manager· Independent Living Specialist· Autism Support Specialist· Direct Support Professionals – needed in Community Living, Independent Living, Day Services· Home Care Attendants· Drivers· RN· Home Health Clinical Manager· Team LeadersWe offer many options for employment – you can work as little or as much as you want!For more information, or to apply, please go to&nbsp;<a href="http://occk.com/">OCCK.com</a>&nbsp;and click on the CAREERS tab.

Don't forget: GSCF's Match Madness Thursday!

ELLSWORTH COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 9:30a.m. Wednesday in Ellsworth County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Toyota Highlander driven by&nbsp; Donald J. Svita, 70, Pueblo, Colorado, was eastbound on Kansas 140 at Kansas 156, a mile and a half south of Ellsworth.

The driver failed to stop at the stop sign. A southbound 2006 Peterbilt semi driven by Luke W. Johnson, 39, Randolph, struck the SUV.

EMS transported both drivers to Ellsworth Medical Center where Svita was pronounced deceased. The drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

ELLSWORTH COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 9:30a.m. Wednesday in Ellsworth County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Toyota Highlander driven by&nbsp; Donald J. Svita, 70, Pueblo, Colorado, was eastbound on Kansas 140 at Kansas 156, a mile and a half south of Ellsworth.The driver failed to stop at the stop sign. A southbound 2006 Peterbilt semi driven by Luke W. Johnson, 39, Randolph, struck the SUV.EMS transported both drivers to Ellsworth Medical Center where Svita was pronounced deceased. The drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

Driver missed stop sign, dies after crash with a semi

Salina Public Schools' (SPS)&nbsp;Chantay Hill, third-grade teacher at Heusner Elementary School, and Collin Carlson, social studies teacher at South High School, have been selected as USD 305 Teachers of the Year. 

The Salina Board of Education honored them at their regular meeting on Tuesday.

Elementary Teacher of the Year: Chantay Hill, third grade teacher at Heusner Elementary School

Chantay Hill has been teaching elementary students for nine years with her most recent experience being a third grade classroom at Heusner Elementary School. She received her Bachelor of Science from Central Christian College of McPherson and earned her Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction from Emporia State University.

She is the president of her school’s Community Involvement and Carnival Committee, is a member of the Parent Council and a member of the Parent Teacher Association. She leads staff development sessions, opens her classroom to student observers and student teachers and is a teacher mentor for the district.

Chantay is always thinking and rethinking how to make learning apply to real life while teaching her third graders. Her love for math is apparent; she is always searching for new ways to help her students learn. Chantay knows her students well and works to create individualized small group lessons to meet her students where they are. She is caring, yet firm and has high expectations for each student.

Chantay has a presence of playfulness and connectedness that connects well with students who know they are valued as an important part of their classroom community. She is organized and plans ahead to best meet the needs of her students. She makes sure students’ learning connects to real-world situations. “When students relate learning to the real world, it brings engagement, it explains the ‘why’,” said Chantay.

Chantay’s favorite moments are when her students learn how good it feels to give to others and to show empathy toward the community. She explained, “I love watching their hearts of kindness grow throughout the year.”

Secondary Teacher of the Year: Collin Carlson, social studies teacher at South High School

Collin Carlson has been teaching social studies for 10 years at South High School. He received his Bachelor of Arts from Bethany College in Social Science Teaching and his Master of Arts in History from Pittsburg State University.

Collin is a teacher leader on South High’s Writing to Learn PLC, coached the Cougar bowling team for two years and serves as a team sponsor for the Kansas Economics Challenge. He is a member of the board of directors for the Lindsborg Old Mill &amp; Swedish Museum.

Both inside and outside the classroom, Collin builds relationships with students and is able to joke and bond with them while also holding high expectations for students. “He does not allow a single student to feel excluded and he allows everyone’s voice to be heard,” explained a former student. “He accomplished this while also requiring thought-provoking responses from students that were supported by logic and classroom literature.” Collin goes out of his way to get to know the people around him by understanding their background, interests and concerns.

Collin’s instruction reflects his belief in the importance of how competing interests and complexity in any issue allow students to practice the importance of prioritizing concrete facts as well as being open minded. His use of thought-provoking materials encourages them to develop their own tools of critical thinking and reflection, key to civic engagement.

“I entered this profession because I love the opportunity to connect with students and I love my subject matter,” Collin stated. “I stay in the profession because of the quality and kindness of colleagues and students that I interact with every day.”

USD 305Salina Public Schools' (SPS)&nbsp;Chantay Hill, third-grade teacher at Heusner Elementary School, and Collin Carlson, social studies teacher at South High School, have been selected as USD 305 Teachers of the Year. The Salina Board of Education honored them at their regular meeting on Tuesday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679520831644.jpeg" alt="Chantay Hill. Photos courtesy Salina USD 305" />
 <figcaption>Chantay Hill. Photos courtesy Salina USD 305</figcaption>
 </figure>Elementary Teacher of the Year: Chantay Hill, third grade teacher at Heusner Elementary SchoolChantay Hill has been teaching elementary students for nine years with her most recent experience being a third grade classroom at Heusner Elementary School. She received her Bachelor of Science from Central Christian College of McPherson and earned her Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction from Emporia State University.She is the president of her school’s Community Involvement and Carnival Committee, is a member of the Parent Council and a member of the Parent Teacher Association. She leads staff development sessions, opens her classroom to student observers and student teachers and is a teacher mentor for the district.Chantay is always thinking and rethinking how to make learning apply to real life while teaching her third graders. Her love for math is apparent; she is always searching for new ways to help her students learn. Chantay knows her students well and works to create individualized small group lessons to meet her students where they are. She is caring, yet firm and has high expectations for each student.Chantay has a presence of playfulness and connectedness that connects well with students who know they are valued as an important part of their classroom community. She is organized and plans ahead to best meet the needs of her students. She makes sure students’ learning connects to real-world situations. “When students relate learning to the real world, it brings engagement, it explains the ‘why’,” said Chantay.Chantay’s favorite moments are when her students learn how good it feels to give to others and to show empathy toward the community. She explained, “I love watching their hearts of kindness grow throughout the year.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679520936585.jpeg" alt="Collin Carlson" />
 <figcaption>Collin Carlson</figcaption>
 </figure>Secondary Teacher of the Year: Collin Carlson, social studies teacher at South High SchoolCollin Carlson has been teaching social studies for 10 years at South High School. He received his Bachelor of Arts from Bethany College in Social Science Teaching and his Master of Arts in History from Pittsburg State University.Collin is a teacher leader on South High’s Writing to Learn PLC, coached the Cougar bowling team for two years and serves as a team sponsor for the Kansas Economics Challenge. He is a member of the board of directors for the Lindsborg Old Mill &amp; Swedish Museum.Both inside and outside the classroom, Collin builds relationships with students and is able to joke and bond with them while also holding high expectations for students. “He does not allow a single student to feel excluded and he allows everyone’s voice to be heard,” explained a former student. “He accomplished this while also requiring thought-provoking responses from students that were supported by logic and classroom literature.” Collin goes out of his way to get to know the people around him by understanding their background, interests and concerns.Collin’s instruction reflects his belief in the importance of how competing interests and complexity in any issue allow students to practice the importance of prioritizing concrete facts as well as being open minded. His use of thought-provoking materials encourages them to develop their own tools of critical thinking and reflection, key to civic engagement.“I entered this profession because I love the opportunity to connect with students and I love my subject matter,” Collin stated. “I stay in the profession because of the quality and kindness of colleagues and students that I interact with every day.”

Teachers of the Year honored by Salina Board of Education

4-Hers collect food for Salina Shares. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064352572433">Salina Shares Facebook page</a>:

4-Hers collect food for Salina Shares. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064352572433">Salina Shares Facebook page</a>:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3Dpfbid02U7rYZEJ8zBafFQ8xVAVbdzeHBUDLSXSyrubpJib8BXCEVkDn4X2X9gVJPcwFesTql%26id%3D100064352572433&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="703" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Central Kansas District 4-Hers collect food for Salina Shares

Police are investigating as arson an east Salina pickup fire early this morning.

Officers were sent to the 1700 block of E. Iron Avenue for the report of a vehicle on fire. When they arrived, they found a 2021 Ford F250 fully engulfed in flames, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. The pickup, valued at $30,000, belonged to KLA Environmental Services of Scott City.

The incident occurred at approximately 3:50 a.m. Wednesday.

Forrester said that evidence at the scene was consistent with the pickup being set on fire intentionally.

A witness reported seeing a white van, possibly with two men inside, leaving westbound from the area, Forrester said. Another witness reported hearing a loud boom and then observed the pickup on fire.

Forrester said police are looking for surveillance video from the area that might aid in the investigation.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice are investigating as arson an east Salina pickup fire early this morning.Officers were sent to the 1700 block of E. Iron Avenue for the report of a vehicle on fire. When they arrived, they found a 2021 Ford F250 fully engulfed in flames, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. The pickup, valued at $30,000, belonged to KLA Environmental Services of Scott City.The incident occurred at approximately 3:50 a.m. Wednesday.Forrester said that evidence at the scene was consistent with the pickup being set on fire intentionally.A witness reported seeing a white van, possibly with two men inside, leaving westbound from the area, Forrester said. Another witness reported hearing a loud boom and then observed the pickup on fire.Forrester said police are looking for surveillance video from the area that might aid in the investigation.

Pickup intentionally set on fire in east Salina early Wednesday morning

Four teen boys were arrested Tuesday afternoon in connection to a break-in at a former southwest Salina family fun center.

Officers were sent to Jumpin' Joes Family Fun Center, 1634 Sunflower Road at 4:15 p.m. Tuesday for the report of four juveniles breaking into the closed facility, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. When they arrived, they found four teen boys: three 16-year-olds and a 15-year-old. Two of the boys allegedly were found inside and two outside, he said.

The gate on the east side of the property was open and a door on the east side of the building had a window broken out. Forrester said officers discovered that the 15-year-old and one of the 16-year-olds had gone to the facility and allegedly broken the window. They then left to pick up the other two 16-year-olds and had returned shortly before police arrived, he said.

The boys were released to their parents and referred to juvenile court on the following requested charges.

Two of the 16-year-old boys: trespassing and interference with law enforcement officers

The 15-year-old and the other 16-year-old: damage to property, three counts of trespassing each

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostFour teen boys were arrested Tuesday afternoon in connection to a break-in at a former southwest Salina family fun center.Officers were sent to Jumpin' Joes Family Fun Center, 1634 Sunflower Road at 4:15 p.m. Tuesday for the report of four juveniles breaking into the closed facility, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning. When they arrived, they found four teen boys: three 16-year-olds and a 15-year-old. Two of the boys allegedly were found inside and two outside, he said.The gate on the east side of the property was open and a door on the east side of the building had a window broken out. Forrester said officers discovered that the 15-year-old and one of the 16-year-olds had gone to the facility and allegedly broken the window. They then left to pick up the other two 16-year-olds and had returned shortly before police arrived, he said.The boys were released to their parents and referred to juvenile court on the following requested charges.Two of the 16-year-old boys: trespassing and interference with law enforcement officersThe 15-year-old and the other 16-year-old: damage to property, three counts of trespassing each

Break-in at former Jumpin' Joe's leads to arrest of four teens

By NATE KING Salina Post

Salina Mayor Mike Hoppock is no stranger to the title of mayor- but titles aren't why he continues to serve as commissioner and now mayor for the second time. For him, it is a matter of community service. 

Salina Post sat down for an interview with Hoppock to discuss community concerns, his goals for the term and where he sees the city in 10 years.

Listen:&nbsp;<a href="https://910kina.com/community-profile/">KINA community profile interview with Mayor Mike Hoppock</a>

In January of 2020, The World Health Organization announced a mysterious coronavirus disease was spreading in China. By November of that same year, Kansas was seeing a surge in cases and more people dying of COVID-19. Hoppock said his first term as mayor was full of tough decisions and a constantly changing information regarding the pandemic.&nbsp; Yet despite a year of businesses being closed and students moving to&nbsp; remote learning, the City of Salina emerged on stronger financial footing than before the pandemic.

"One of the things as a city we weren't sure of is how strong our sales tax would be," Hoppock said. "Because the unemployment insurance relief the government came out with, we were able to furlough and job share some employees and keep them- that was important to us."&nbsp;

Hoppock said by maintaining a strong sales tax and "weathering the storm" the city was able to increase the general reserve fund considerably.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Our sales tax numbers were actually stronger in 2020, then it was in 2019," Hoppock said. "We just got numbers from the finance department, and the numbers are up in 2022, over 2021. We are just excited about the direction the community is headed."&nbsp;&nbsp;

In 2017 the City of Salina began a downtown revitalization project aimed at adding entertainment venues, retail, dining locations, residential spaces and hotels to give downtown Salina a new look. Mayor Hoppock said the improvements helped reenergize&nbsp;Salina's sense of identity and town pride.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Downtown is everybody's neighborhood," Hoppock said. "When I look back at some of the older pictures, downtown was looking tired."&nbsp;

One example was The Phoenix Motel, a dilapidated building located at N. Fifth Street and E. Iron Avenue. Hoppock said through private and public partnership part of the property became the home of the Salina Fieldhouse.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I know people now moving back to Salina that have been gone for a while and they are just amazed with our downtown and amenities," Hoppock said.&nbsp;

Although some people opposed the overhead, lighted structures on Santa Fe Avenue, Hoppock said they were well worth the money.&nbsp;

"The overhead structures at night when they are lit up says, 'This is Salina, Kansas.' I think it’s a big plus to downtown," Hoppock said.&nbsp;

Located at&nbsp;&nbsp;139 N. Penn Avenue is a blighted building with an ever-changing owner: the former St.&nbsp;John's&nbsp;Hospital. 

Built in 1913, St. John's Hospital was pitched by Rev. Father Maher of the Sisters of St. Joseph who then brought the idea to non-Catholic citizens of Salina who agreed there was a need.&nbsp;

Decades of births, surgeries, and life-changing events took place within St. John's Hospital and eventually the name evolved into St. John's Regional Health Center. Leading up to the completion of Salina Regional Health Center on S. Santa Fe Avenue, St. John's became more and more obsolete.&nbsp;By 2010, the campus was entirely empty. From 2002 until 2015, Salina Regional had made several failed attempts to find a potential developer for the property.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In 2015 the City of Salina denied a request by Salina Regional to demolish the St. John's facility. During a city commission meeting, Jim&nbsp;Ravenkamp protested the demolition idea. He and others in the community believed there was some way the historic facility could be used. Subsequently, the city called off the demolition.&nbsp;

In 2023, the building still sits abandoned with no plans announced on redevelopment.

"It is a blighted property, and we are not sure what we're gonna do and it has recently changed hands again," Hoppock said. " I've been through it and there's not a room that hasn't been vandalized and it has mold in it.&nbsp; Some individuals have looked at trying to redevelop that. But it's really, really expensive. It's small rooms, thick, thick, concrete walls, and I'm sure it has asbestos in it. Asbestos removal is very, very expensive."

Hoppock said he was not sure how the city would address the blighted property, but he did say the city will do everything it can to help a developer make something of the property. Hoppock also said so far the city hasn't had anybody come to them with any good ideas for the property.&nbsp;

The Salina Airport Authority,&nbsp; Kansas Department of Health and Environment, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have conducted numerous environmental investigations and some limited remedial actions at the former Schilling Airforce Base since the mid-1990s.

In April of 2021, the Salina City Commission approved the consulting and engineering contract with Dragun Corp., which has drafted plans to clean up pollution at the former base.&nbsp; 

Initial cleanup funding for the project came after a lawsuit was filed against the federal government by&nbsp;the Kansas Board of Regents, USD 305, the Salina Airport Authority, and the city of Salina. The lawsuit resulted in a settlement of $65.9 million.&nbsp;

With the settlement fund now on deposit, the Salina public entities can complete the clean up at little to no cost to existing and future airport and Airport Industrial Center businesses.

According to a release from Salina Airport Authority, the years of military use left behind several different forms of pollution, primarily from the solvent trichloroethylene, or TCE, in the soil and groundwater.

&nbsp;TCE, a carcinogen, was used as a degreaser to wash aircraft and weapons at the base. Officials also determined the contamination was creeping, ever so slowly, to the northeast toward city water wells.

Martha Tasker, Salina director of utilities, is co-managing the project with Matt Schroeder senior environmental engineer at Dragun Corp.

"In the 1940s, 1950s and early 1960s, when the Schilling Air Force Base was here they weren't as cautious about contaminants as we are today," Tasker said. "Now we have the ability to test for PFAS [per-and poly-fluoroalkyl substances] out at the airbase,  and we actually test down to 70 parts per trillion."

Tasker said there are a total of seven groundwater plumes that stretch diagonally southwest to northeast across the Salina Airport Authority property. She also mentioned that the closest municipal water well to any of the plumes, is 1.5 miles away from the nearest plume.

“This area didn’t get contaminated overnight, and it’s not gonna get cleaned up overnight,” Tasker said. “We look for some of that testing to carry on through 2050. We want to make sure that area is safe. It’s not just protecting the groundwater, it’s also protecting the air.”

Tasker outlined four different remedial ground water techniques the city plans to use.&nbsp;

● Excavation and off-site disposal Physically removing contaminated soil and taking it to another location outside the county. Soil that is identified at non-hazardous would be sent to the local landfill and any soil deemed hazardous would be sent to a special facility.

● Thermal treatment The process of heating about 6,000 square feet of contaminated soil using heaters placed in underground steel pipes. Once the soil is heated, the contaminants will evaporate into gasses. The gasses are then collected, treated, and discharged. The thermal treatment plan would be completed in 160 days, and would cost $8.7 million.

● Permeable reactive barriers Walls of reactive materials installed underground that would react with contaminants in groundwater to form less toxic or harmless chemicals. These barriers would cost $14.6 million.

● Directed groundwater recirculation Wells built to extract and treat groundwater and reinject it back into the aquifer. This process is the most expensive part of the proposed remediation, at a cost of $54.5 million.

"We are studying and we're very close to start doing some excavation work at Plume B, which is located behind Salina Area Technical College and near building 614 at the airport," Tasker said.&nbsp;

Tasker said excavation and off site disposal would be used for very small areas that have an identified source point, because it is not logical or feasible to dig up all of K State's campus.&nbsp;

"Depending on what it is, you're going to travel some distance and they [waste disposal sites] come with a very expensive price tag," Tasker said.

While most of the cleanup will be accomplished in the first five years, Tasker said decades of monitoring and spot treatment may be ahead before the project is deemed complete.

"They are there deciding how they're going to go about cleanup," Hoppock said. "There are several different chemicals that take different types of treatment. They have been monitoring to make sure it does not contaminate any residential areas. At this time, there's no residential or business areas that I'm aware of that are in any kind of danger."

"I really think we have a lot of momentum right now. And I continue to see us grow," Hoppock said. "If you look at Schwans and Kubota, they both still have expansions in their future. 1 Vision [Aviation] has grown, we have other locally owned companies like Vortex showing continued&nbsp; growth, I can go through the list that have all been very successful, and very quietly continue to add to and grow their businesses."

Hoppock said the City of Salina has positioned itself well and has continued to foster its community relationships to improve the overall quality of life.

&nbsp;"We're right on the edge of western Kansas, and, and if you go west of us, most of the counties are shrinking, and I think Salina has positioned ourselves with the right investments to continue to to improve ourselves. Having Kansas Wesleyan and K-State Salina here also helps."

As the population grows and more businesses expand, Hoppock said he expects more businesses to follow suit.&nbsp;

"I think we'll continue to see&nbsp; businesses come in. We're hoping to get that direct flight to Houston," Hoppock said. "We currently have a flight to Chicago and to Denver. If you're looking to bring businesses in, it is important that people can get in here without having to fly into Wichita, Kansas City and drive. So we're hoping that comes about soon."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679427939927.jpeg" alt="Salina Mayor Mike Hoppock. Photo courtesy City of Salina" />
 <figcaption>Salina Mayor Mike Hoppock. Photo courtesy City of Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>By NATE KING Salina PostSalina Mayor Mike Hoppock is no stranger to the title of mayor- but titles aren't why he continues to serve as commissioner and now mayor for the second time. For him, it is a matter of community service. Salina Post sat down for an interview with Hoppock to discuss community concerns, his goals for the term and where he sees the city in 10 years.Listen:&nbsp;<a href="https://910kina.com/community-profile/">KINA community profile interview with Mayor Mike Hoppock</a><h2>First term as mayor</h2>In January of 2020, The World Health Organization announced a mysterious coronavirus disease was spreading in China. By November of that same year, Kansas was seeing a surge in cases and more people dying of COVID-19. Hoppock said his first term as mayor was full of tough decisions and a constantly changing information regarding the pandemic.&nbsp; Yet despite a year of businesses being closed and students moving to&nbsp; remote learning, the City of Salina emerged on stronger financial footing than before the pandemic."One of the things as a city we weren't sure of is how strong our sales tax would be," Hoppock said. "Because the unemployment insurance relief the government came out with, we were able to furlough and job share some employees and keep them- that was important to us."&nbsp;Hoppock said by maintaining a strong sales tax and "weathering the storm" the city was able to increase the general reserve fund considerably.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Our sales tax numbers were actually stronger in 2020, then it was in 2019," Hoppock said. "We just got numbers from the finance department, and the numbers are up in 2022, over 2021. We are just excited about the direction the community is headed."&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>City of lights, a brightened downtown</h2>In 2017 the City of Salina began a downtown revitalization project aimed at adding entertainment venues, retail, dining locations, residential spaces and hotels to give downtown Salina a new look. Mayor Hoppock said the improvements helped reenergize&nbsp;Salina's sense of identity and town pride.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668899605683.jpeg" alt="Vegan Shark performs on the City Lights Stage during the Holiday Festival&nbsp;Nov. 19. Salina Post file photo/LeslieEikleberry" />
 <figcaption>Vegan Shark performs on the City Lights Stage during the Holiday Festival&nbsp;Nov. 19. Salina Post file photo/LeslieEikleberry</figcaption>
 </figure>"Downtown is everybody's neighborhood," Hoppock said. "When I look back at some of the older pictures, downtown was looking tired."&nbsp;One example was The Phoenix Motel, a dilapidated building located at N. Fifth Street and E. Iron Avenue. Hoppock said through private and public partnership part of the property became the home of the Salina Fieldhouse.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I know people now moving back to Salina that have been gone for a while and they are just amazed with our downtown and amenities," Hoppock said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656615687445.jpeg" alt="Salina downtown looking south on Santa Fe Avenue.&nbsp;Salina Post file photo/Leslie Eikleberry" />
 <figcaption>Salina downtown looking south on Santa Fe Avenue.&nbsp;Salina Post file photo/Leslie Eikleberry</figcaption>
 </figure>Although some people opposed the overhead, lighted structures on Santa Fe Avenue, Hoppock said they were well worth the money.&nbsp;"The overhead structures at night when they are lit up says, 'This is Salina, Kansas.' I think it’s a big plus to downtown," Hoppock said.&nbsp;<h2>Blighted buildings</h2>Located at&nbsp;&nbsp;139 N. Penn Avenue is a blighted building with an ever-changing owner: the former St.&nbsp;John's&nbsp;Hospital. Built in 1913, St. John's Hospital was pitched by Rev. Father Maher of the Sisters of St. Joseph who then brought the idea to non-Catholic citizens of Salina who agreed there was a need.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679417620061.jpeg" alt="St. John's Hospital.&nbsp;Image&nbsp;courtesy Kansas Historical Society&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>St. John's Hospital.&nbsp;Image&nbsp;courtesy Kansas Historical Society&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Decades of births, surgeries, and life-changing events took place within St. John's Hospital and eventually the name evolved into St. John's Regional Health Center. Leading up to the completion of Salina Regional Health Center on S. Santa Fe Avenue, St. John's became more and more obsolete.&nbsp;By 2010, the campus was entirely empty. From 2002 until 2015, Salina Regional had made several failed attempts to find a potential developer for the property.&nbsp;&nbsp;In 2015 the City of Salina denied a request by Salina Regional to demolish the St. John's facility. During a city commission meeting, Jim&nbsp;Ravenkamp protested the demolition idea. He and others in the community believed there was some way the historic facility could be used. Subsequently, the city called off the demolition.&nbsp;In 2023, the building still sits abandoned with no plans announced on redevelopment.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679418968288.jpeg" alt="Current state of former St. John's Hospital.&nbsp;Photo by Nate King/Salina Post" />
 <figcaption>Current state of former St. John's Hospital.&nbsp;Photo by Nate King/Salina Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"It is a blighted property, and we are not sure what we're gonna do and it has recently changed hands again," Hoppock said. " I've been through it and there's not a room that hasn't been vandalized and it has mold in it.&nbsp; Some individuals have looked at trying to redevelop that. But it's really, really expensive. It's small rooms, thick, thick, concrete walls, and I'm sure it has asbestos in it. Asbestos removal is very, very expensive."Hoppock said he was not sure how the city would address the blighted property, but he did say the city will do everything it can to help a developer make something of the property. Hoppock also said so far the city hasn't had anybody come to them with any good ideas for the property.&nbsp;<h2>Schilling chemical cleanup site update</h2>The Salina Airport Authority,&nbsp; Kansas Department of Health and Environment, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have conducted numerous environmental investigations and some limited remedial actions at the former Schilling Airforce Base since the mid-1990s.In April of 2021, the Salina City Commission approved the consulting and engineering contract with Dragun Corp., which has drafted plans to clean up pollution at the former base.&nbsp; Initial cleanup funding for the project came after a lawsuit was filed against the federal government by&nbsp;the Kansas Board of Regents, USD 305, the Salina Airport Authority, and the city of Salina. The lawsuit resulted in a settlement of $65.9 million.&nbsp;With the settlement fund now on deposit, the Salina public entities can complete the clean up at little to no cost to existing and future airport and Airport Industrial Center businesses.According to a release from Salina Airport Authority, the years of military use left behind several different forms of pollution, primarily from the solvent trichloroethylene, or TCE, in the soil and groundwater.&nbsp;TCE, a carcinogen, was used as a degreaser to wash aircraft and weapons at the base. Officials also determined the contamination was creeping, ever so slowly, to the northeast toward city water wells.Martha Tasker, Salina director of utilities, is co-managing the project with Matt Schroeder senior environmental engineer at Dragun Corp."In the 1940s, 1950s and early 1960s, when the Schilling Air Force Base was here they weren't as cautious about contaminants as we are today," Tasker said. "Now we have the ability to test for PFAS [per-and poly-fluoroalkyl substances] out at the airbase, and we actually test down to 70 parts per trillion."Tasker said there are a total of seven groundwater plumes that stretch diagonally southwest to northeast across the Salina Airport Authority property. She also mentioned that the closest municipal water well to any of the plumes, is 1.5 miles away from the nearest plume.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679431555790.jpeg" alt="A map of the different plumes located at the former Schilling Air Force Base. Images courtesy City of Salina Utilities" />
 <figcaption>A map of the different plumes located at the former Schilling Air Force Base. Images courtesy City of Salina Utilities</figcaption>
 </figure>“This area didn’t get contaminated overnight, and it’s not gonna get cleaned up overnight,” Tasker said. “We look for some of that testing to carry on through 2050. We want to make sure that area is safe. It’s not just protecting the groundwater, it’s also protecting the air.”Tasker outlined four different remedial ground water techniques the city plans to use.&nbsp;● Excavation and off-site disposal Physically removing contaminated soil and taking it to another location outside the county. Soil that is identified at non-hazardous would be sent to the local landfill and any soil deemed hazardous would be sent to a special facility.● Thermal treatment The process of heating about 6,000 square feet of contaminated soil using heaters placed in underground steel pipes. Once the soil is heated, the contaminants will evaporate into gasses. The gasses are then collected, treated, and discharged. The thermal treatment plan would be completed in 160 days, and would cost $8.7 million.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679427527419.jpeg" alt="Thermal treatment plan&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Thermal treatment plan&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure> ● Permeable reactive barriers Walls of reactive materials installed underground that would react with contaminants in groundwater to form less toxic or harmless chemicals. These barriers would cost $14.6 million.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679427636456.jpeg" alt="Permeable reactive barrier treatment&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Permeable reactive barrier treatment&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure> ● Directed groundwater recirculation Wells built to extract and treat groundwater and reinject it back into the aquifer. This process is the most expensive part of the proposed remediation, at a cost of $54.5 million. "We are studying and we're very close to start doing some excavation work at Plume B, which is located behind Salina Area Technical College and near building 614 at the airport," Tasker said.&nbsp;Tasker said excavation and off site disposal would be used for very small areas that have an identified source point, because it is not logical or feasible to dig up all of K State's campus.&nbsp;"Depending on what it is, you're going to travel some distance and they [waste disposal sites] come with a very expensive price tag," Tasker said.While most of the cleanup will be accomplished in the first five years, Tasker said decades of monitoring and spot treatment may be ahead before the project is deemed complete."They are there deciding how they're going to go about cleanup," Hoppock said. "There are several different chemicals that take different types of treatment. They have been monitoring to make sure it does not contaminate any residential areas. At this time, there's no residential or business areas that I'm aware of that are in any kind of danger."<h2>Where does he see the city in 10 years?</h2>"I really think we have a lot of momentum right now. And I continue to see us grow," Hoppock said. "If you look at Schwans and Kubota, they both still have expansions in their future. 1 Vision [Aviation] has grown, we have other locally owned companies like Vortex showing continued&nbsp; growth, I can go through the list that have all been very successful, and very quietly continue to add to and grow their businesses."Hoppock said the City of Salina has positioned itself well and has continued to foster its community relationships to improve the overall quality of life.&nbsp;"We're right on the edge of western Kansas, and, and if you go west of us, most of the counties are shrinking, and I think Salina has positioned ourselves with the right investments to continue to to improve ourselves. Having Kansas Wesleyan and K-State Salina here also helps."As the population grows and more businesses expand, Hoppock said he expects more businesses to follow suit.&nbsp;"I think we'll continue to see&nbsp; businesses come in. We're hoping to get that direct flight to Houston," Hoppock said. "We currently have a flight to Chicago and to Denver. If you're looking to bring businesses in, it is important that people can get in here without having to fly into Wichita, Kansas City and drive. So we're hoping that comes about soon."

Local