HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas says don't drive distracted, especially while kids are figuring out their new school routine.

"You need to have your your total focus on the road, obviously, with kids walking to school, biking to school, buses out and about," Steward said. "It's essential for drivers to stay focused on the road and be extra cautious. So put your phone down. Don't be looking at your phone while you're heading to take your kids to school or headed into the school zone."

On the way home is when kids really aren't paying attention.

"Nearly one fifth of traffic fatalities of children below the age of 15 or school age pedestrians are killed between the hours of three and four p.m. than any other time of day," Steward said. "So that just reiterates the importance of staying focused, not only that after school period, but also before school."

In addition, slow down in school zones, so that if something does happen, everyone is safer.

"Triple A Foundation for Traffic Safety conducted some research and found that a pedestrian struck by a vehicle traveling twenty five miles per hour is nearly two thirds less likely to be killed compared to a pedestrian struck by a vehicle going thirty five miles an hour," Steward said. "That 10 mile an hour reduction can can play a huge difference for somebody who happens to be struck by a vehicle."

Give yourself extra time to get where you are going for the first couple of weeks, so that new drivers and parents new to the school buildings can find their way.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723558396693.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas says don't drive distracted, especially while kids are figuring out their new school routine."You need to have your your total focus on the road, obviously, with kids walking to school, biking to school, buses out and about," Steward said. "It's essential for drivers to stay focused on the road and be extra cautious. So put your phone down. Don't be looking at your phone while you're heading to take your kids to school or headed into the school zone."On the way home is when kids really aren't paying attention."Nearly one fifth of traffic fatalities of children below the age of 15 or school age pedestrians are killed between the hours of three and four p.m. than any other time of day," Steward said. "So that just reiterates the importance of staying focused, not only that after school period, but also before school."In addition, slow down in school zones, so that if something does happen, everyone is safer."Triple A Foundation for Traffic Safety conducted some research and found that a pedestrian struck by a vehicle traveling twenty five miles per hour is nearly two thirds less likely to be killed compared to a pedestrian struck by a vehicle going thirty five miles an hour," Steward said. "That 10 mile an hour reduction can can play a huge difference for somebody who happens to be struck by a vehicle."Give yourself extra time to get where you are going for the first couple of weeks, so that new drivers and parents new to the school buildings can find their way.

Focus key while driving in school zones

KWU Kansas Wesleyan will launch its 26th intercollegiate sport in the fall of 2025, as the university announced Tuesday that women’s wrestling will begin competition that semester. A coach will be hired this fall, with assistant coaches to follow.

“It’s always exciting to add a new opportunity for our students,” said Ken Oliver, executive vice president of advancement and university operations. “This balances our athletic offerings by enabling a new, female-specific competition, and it’s a growing sport with a strong Midwest base. This decision, however, is about more than that. These types of additions give our students chances to compete and to learn the valuable life skills athletics can teach. Away from the mats, our university is investing in athletic facilities, we’re building new residence halls (and renovating existing ones), and this semester, we’ll have a new dining hall. All of this comes together to create an environment that puts the student first and helps them have a great experience as a Coyote.”

The program is the first KWU has added since Sept. 2020, when men’s volleyball joined the slate. Current offerings Esports, women’s flag football, and men’s and women’s bowling have also joined the Coyote Athletic Department in the past decade.

KWU’s team will practice in Muir Gym, using a suspension mat system. KWU will renovate a locker room for the team, as well.

There are 37 NAIA schools in the United States who offer women’s wrestling programs. More than one-third of them (14) are in Kansas, Missouri or Nebraska, and the Coyotes will become the sixth KCAC school to sponsor the sport. 2024 was the second year that the program held championship status in the NAIA.

“It’s always exciting to add a new sport,” said Athletic Director Miguel&nbsp;Paredes. “Women’s wrestling is on the rise nationally and is especially popular in the Midwest, but more than that, this is another addition to a fantastic Coyote experience. Our department has been at the forefront of adding emerging sports for years, and I’m pleased that this announcement continues that trend.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723587170339.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KWU Kansas Wesleyan will launch its 26th intercollegiate sport in the fall of 2025, as the university announced Tuesday that women’s wrestling will begin competition that semester. A coach will be hired this fall, with assistant coaches to follow.“It’s always exciting to add a new opportunity for our students,” said Ken Oliver, executive vice president of advancement and university operations. “This balances our athletic offerings by enabling a new, female-specific competition, and it’s a growing sport with a strong Midwest base. This decision, however, is about more than that. These types of additions give our students chances to compete and to learn the valuable life skills athletics can teach. Away from the mats, our university is investing in athletic facilities, we’re building new residence halls (and renovating existing ones), and this semester, we’ll have a new dining hall. All of this comes together to create an environment that puts the student first and helps them have a great experience as a Coyote.”The program is the first KWU has added since Sept. 2020, when men’s volleyball joined the slate. Current offerings Esports, women’s flag football, and men’s and women’s bowling have also joined the Coyote Athletic Department in the past decade.KWU’s team will practice in Muir Gym, using a suspension mat system. KWU will renovate a locker room for the team, as well.There are 37 NAIA schools in the United States who offer women’s wrestling programs. More than one-third of them (14) are in Kansas, Missouri or Nebraska, and the Coyotes will become the sixth KCAC school to sponsor the sport. 2024 was the second year that the program held championship status in the NAIA.“It’s always exciting to add a new sport,” said Athletic Director Miguel&nbsp;Paredes. “Women’s wrestling is on the rise nationally and is especially popular in the Midwest, but more than that, this is another addition to a fantastic Coyote experience. Our department has been at the forefront of adding emerging sports for years, and I’m pleased that this announcement continues that trend.”

KWU to add women’s wrestling for Fall 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Granny Brigade will host an information meeting on Tuesday August 20 at 7 p.m.at the Carver Center.

Speakers will be Representatives Clark Sanders, Stephen Howe and Scott Hill and Kansas Senator JR Claeys. The speakers will give a legislative update and there will be time for questions from the audience.&nbsp;

This event is open to the public and is not a "Republicans only" event. All residents, regardless of political party, are welcome to attend.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695741044384.png" alt="Carver Center Granny Brigade" />
 <figcaption>Carver Center Granny Brigade</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Granny Brigade will host an information meeting on Tuesday August 20 at 7 p.m.at the Carver Center.Speakers will be Representatives Clark Sanders, Stephen Howe and Scott Hill and Kansas Senator JR Claeys. The speakers will give a legislative update and there will be time for questions from the audience.&nbsp;This event is open to the public and is not a "Republicans only" event. All residents, regardless of political party, are welcome to attend.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Granny Brigade information meeting at Carver Center on Aug 20

 A Salina woman reported her vehicle stolen during the afternoon hours of Monday, Aug. 12 in Central Salina.

Salina Police Department (SPD) Captain James Feldman said officers arrived in the 600 block of South Second Street at approximately 4 p.m. The victim, a 48-year-old female, told officers she discovered that her car was gone when she came outside to prepare for work. 

"Her 1998 black Subaru Forester, valued at $500 was stolen from the front of the residence," Feldman said. "Also in the vehicle was her $900 phone, which was more expensive than the vehicle."

The vehicle's license plate is a Kansas tag D669216, registered in Saline County. As of now, no suspects have been identified in connection with the theft.

Authorities have entered the vehicle's details into the Flock Safety camera system, a tool used to capture and track license plates, but no leads have been generated so far.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598205233802.jpeg" alt="Salina Police Department silver.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Salina Police Department silver.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POST A Salina woman reported her vehicle stolen during the afternoon hours of Monday, Aug. 12 in Central Salina.Salina Police Department (SPD) Captain James Feldman said officers arrived in the 600 block of South Second Street at approximately 4 p.m. The victim, a 48-year-old female, told officers she discovered that her car was gone when she came outside to prepare for work. "Her 1998 black Subaru Forester, valued at $500 was stolen from the front of the residence," Feldman said. "Also in the vehicle was her $900 phone, which was more expensive than the vehicle."The vehicle's license plate is a Kansas tag D669216, registered in Saline County. As of now, no suspects have been identified in connection with the theft.Authorities have entered the vehicle's details into the Flock Safety camera system, a tool used to capture and track license plates, but no leads have been generated so far.&nbsp;

SPD investigate vehicle theft on South Second Street

Unless otherwise noted, county offices will be open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 pm.

If you need any assistance in participating in any meeting or event due to a disability as defined under ADA, please call the County’s ADA Coordinator at (785) 309-5812 or email leamerm@salinecountyks.gov prior to the scheduled meeting or event to request accommodations.

For Board of County Commissioners meetings are live-streamed on YouTube.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125">&nbsp;For a library of past meetings, and to view this week's meeting, click here.&nbsp;</a>

B. Flag Salute &amp; Moment of Silence

	3. FY24 Year End Community Corrections Adult Program Report 3 - 6

	4. FY24 Year End Community Corrections Juvenile Program Report 7 - 10

	5. FY24 Community Corrections Juvenile Budget Amendment 11 - 11

	6. FY25 KDOC Additional Funding Signatory Approval 12 - 16

	9. Approval of County Commission Minutes from August 6, 2024 17 - 	21

	10. Extension to the July 31 Disaster Declaration 22 - 23

	1. Road Petition - Updated, 2024-114 24 - 34

Mr. Elliott Schrader owns, together with Jennifer Schrader, a parcel of approximately 17 acres in a bend of the Saline River north of Salina which does not have current clear access to a public road. Mr. Schrader has prepared a petition for the County Commission to open a public road pursuant to K.S.A. 68-117. This was presented to your Commission on July 23, 2024. The Commission at that time continued the matter and asked for more information regarding the following:

Whether opening a public road would be considered a “taking” of property from the neighbors under the Constitution.

Whether the Commission is required to provide access to landlocked parcels.

What the status is of a prior easement from 1894?

If the staff could find any history regarding farming over the prior access path that existed.

It is the opinion of County Counselor Mike Montoya that the 1894 easement has not been abandoned. However, this easement ends approximately 300 feet short of Mr. Schrader’s property line, so the petition process still needs to be followed. It is discretionary on the part of the landowner of a landlocked parcel whether to request a public road, but the statutes do not appear to give discretion to the County Commission once the process has been initiated. Mr. Montoya has prepared the attached memorandum detailing the process. The procedure is slightly different than condemnation (eminent domain), but has the legal effect of a taking.

The County Engineer’s office has been unable to determine a specific date the access path was farmed over. It was sometime after 1965.

	4. RNR Hearing/Budget Hearing/2025 Budget Adoption

	5. Study Session - Campus Plan Input Session at 11 am

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639621309216.png" alt="new Saline County logo sq.png" />
 <figcaption>new Saline County logo sq.png</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTTuesday, Aug. 13, 2024, 9:00 a.m.300 W Ash Room 107 Salina, Kansas 67401<h2>Board of County Commissioners</h2>Monte Shadwick - District 1Robert Vidricksen II - District 2Rodger Sparks - District 3James Weese - District 4Chairman, Joe Hay Jr. - District 5<h2>Meeting Information</h2>Unless otherwise noted, county offices will be open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 pm.If you need any assistance in participating in any meeting or event due to a disability as defined under ADA, please call the County’s ADA Coordinator at (785) 309-5812 or email leamerm@salinecountyks.gov prior to the scheduled meeting or event to request accommodations.For Board of County Commissioners meetings are live-streamed on YouTube.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125">&nbsp;For a library of past meetings, and to view this week's meeting, click here.&nbsp;</a><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K1x6fhryv58?si=J_OdMdf_QPSXrebB" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><h2>Regular Meeting Agenda</h2>A. Call To OrderB. Flag Salute &amp; Moment of SilenceC. Public ForumD. Consent Agenda	1. Approval of Tax Roll Adjustments	2. Approval of Accounts Payable	3. FY24 Year End Community Corrections Adult Program Report 3 - 6	4. FY24 Year End Community Corrections Juvenile Program Report 7 - 10	5. FY24 Community Corrections Juvenile Budget Amendment 11 - 11	6. FY25 KDOC Additional Funding Signatory Approval 12 - 16	7. FY25 Juvenile KDOC Carryover Budget	8. FY25 Adult KDOC Carryover Budget	9. Approval of County Commission Minutes from August 6, 2024 17 - 	21	10. Extension to the July 31 Disaster Declaration 22 - 23	11. Approval of Public Forum AgendaE. Action Items	1. Road Petition - Updated, 2024-114 24 - 34Request for ActionMr. Elliott Schrader owns, together with Jennifer Schrader, a parcel of approximately 17 acres in a bend of the Saline River north of Salina which does not have current clear access to a public road. Mr. Schrader has prepared a petition for the County Commission to open a public road pursuant to K.S.A. 68-117. This was presented to your Commission on July 23, 2024. The Commission at that time continued the matter and asked for more information regarding the following:Whether opening a public road would be considered a “taking” of property from the neighbors under the Constitution.Whether the Commission is required to provide access to landlocked parcels.What the status is of a prior easement from 1894?If the staff could find any history regarding farming over the prior access path that existed.It is the opinion of County Counselor Mike Montoya that the 1894 easement has not been abandoned. However, this easement ends approximately 300 feet short of Mr. Schrader’s property line, so the petition process still needs to be followed. It is discretionary on the part of the landowner of a landlocked parcel whether to request a public road, but the statutes do not appear to give discretion to the County Commission once the process has been initiated. Mr. Montoya has prepared the attached memorandum detailing the process. The procedure is slightly different than condemnation (eminent domain), but has the legal effect of a taking.The County Engineer’s office has been unable to determine a specific date the access path was farmed over. It was sometime after 1965.F. Informational Items	1. Commissioner Comments	2. AnnouncementsG. August 19 Agenda Item	1. Election CanvassH. August 20 Agenda Items	1. Human Resources Update	2. Livestock and Expo Update	3. Election Canvass Signatures	4. RNR Hearing/Budget Hearing/2025 Budget Adoption	5. Study Session - Campus Plan Input Session at 11 amI. Adjournment

Saline County Board of Commissioners Aug. 13 meeting agenda

Hello and happy Tuesday, everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine…

On Monday, Kansas senior cornerback Cobee Bryant earned a spot on the watch list for the 30th Chuck Bednarik Award, which is presented annually to the most outstanding defensive player in college football.

This is the second consecutive year that Bryant has been honored by the Bednarik Award in the preseason and it becomes the third watch list for him this season. He has previously received watch list selections from the Bronko Nagurski Award and the Jim Thorpe Award.

Bryant is eighth in school history with nine career interceptions. He has scored four touchdowns in his career, adding a fumble return and blocked field goal return to two interception returns. He finished the 2023 season with 32 tackles, four interceptions and 9 pass breakups.

Kansas Football was also ranked No. 22 in the Associated Press Preseason Poll, marking Kansas’ first preseason appearance in the poll since 2009.

The Jayhawks are now ranked in both major college football preseason polls for the first time since 2008.

And finally good news for Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nfl.com/players/marquise-brown/">Hollywood Brown</a>&nbsp;who suffered a sternoclavicular joint dislocation in a preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. According to head coach Andy Reid doctors were able to reset the joint without surgery. Brown could still miss some time but not as much as he would have had he gone under the knife

That’s your sports update for today, but for even more great area sports content like this, check out Salina Post and stay tuned to KINA.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WaHk3smWWvo"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY SALINA POST(Transcript)Hello and happy Tuesday, everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine…_________On Monday, Kansas senior cornerback Cobee Bryant earned a spot on the watch list for the 30th Chuck Bednarik Award, which is presented annually to the most outstanding defensive player in college football.This is the second consecutive year that Bryant has been honored by the Bednarik Award in the preseason and it becomes the third watch list for him this season. He has previously received watch list selections from the Bronko Nagurski Award and the Jim Thorpe Award.Bryant is eighth in school history with nine career interceptions. He has scored four touchdowns in his career, adding a fumble return and blocked field goal return to two interception returns. He finished the 2023 season with 32 tackles, four interceptions and 9 pass breakups._________Kansas Football was also ranked No. 22 in the Associated Press Preseason Poll, marking Kansas’ first preseason appearance in the poll since 2009.The Jayhawks are now ranked in both major college football preseason polls for the first time since 2008._________And finally good news for Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nfl.com/players/marquise-brown/">Hollywood Brown</a>&nbsp;who suffered a sternoclavicular joint dislocation in a preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. According to head coach Andy Reid doctors were able to reset the joint without surgery. Brown could still miss some time but not as much as he would have had he gone under the knife_________That’s your sports update for today, but for even more great area sports content like this, check out Salina Post and stay tuned to KINA.

910 KINA Sports Headlines — August 13

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher

Fall doesn’t officially start until September, but August is the unofficial end of summer as a new school year begins. Even those of us who don’t have children in school feel the transition as churches, organizations and activities pick back up after a summer break.

Farmers are beginning to transition to fall as well. Our focus begins to move from irrigating crops and checking fields to preparing equipment for harvest and waiting impatiently for crops to dry down for harvest.

This little gap is the perfect time for seed meetings, harvest parties and county Farm Bureau’s annual meetings. People in agriculture love to come together for a meal, a good speaker and to catch up with the neighbors.

Over the last few years, I have attended many county Farm Bureau annual meetings in the 11 counties of District 7 as our VOTEFBF (Kansas Farm Bureau’s political action committee) representative. It has been an honor and an interesting experience to attend these meetings.

No two meetings are the same, each has its own personality and culture that shows through in the event’s design. Some serve full meals, while others have appetizers, desserts or charcuterie boards. I’ve attended breakfasts, dinners and events at all times in between. The meeting programs range from educational to motivational, some feature remarks from elected representatives and others are just the essential business and recognitions for accomplishments in the previous years.

The recognitions are one of my favorite parts. There are a variety of awards given by most counties with eligible candidates including the Century Farm awards for farms that have been in continuous ownership of the same family for 100 years, Farm Family of the Year recognizing the service of a family to the organization, Friend of Agriculture or Distinguished Service awards for contributors to the agriculture community and the Natural Resources award celebrating conservation practices on the farm.

It is cool to hear about how a family farm has grown and changed of over a century, what farmers are doing to improve the health and sustainability of their most important resources and how individuals are making an impact on agriculture and their communities through service. Farmers don’t seek or get a lot of recognition and these awards are a small way to recognize years of small and large contributions both lead to significant results over time.

The other thing that really makes attending the meetings a joy for me is the people. It is fun to meet new people and learn about their farms or to see members I have known for years and catch up on life and how crops are looking in their part of the world. There is something incredibly affirming about being in a room full of people who share your values, goals and challenges.

Since the pandemic many organizations have struggled to get event attendance back to former levels. Even though events may not be as full as they once were, I am thankful that organizations keep innovating and trying. Farming can be a lonely and somewhat thankless profession. It is important that we have meetings, harvest parties or grower education that bring people together to share a meal, new ideas and good conversation.

Whether you are a farmer or not, there are organizations and businesses in your community hosting meetings or celebrations. Make time to attend an event because we need to celebrate each other’s success and look forward to better ways. We need to appreciate our community and the people in it.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancherFall doesn’t officially start until September, but August is the unofficial end of summer as a new school year begins. Even those of us who don’t have children in school feel the transition as churches, organizations and activities pick back up after a summer break.Farmers are beginning to transition to fall as well. Our focus begins to move from irrigating crops and checking fields to preparing equipment for harvest and waiting impatiently for crops to dry down for harvest.This little gap is the perfect time for seed meetings, harvest parties and county Farm Bureau’s annual meetings. People in agriculture love to come together for a meal, a good speaker and to catch up with the neighbors.Over the last few years, I have attended many county Farm Bureau annual meetings in the 11 counties of District 7 as our VOTEFBF (Kansas Farm Bureau’s political action committee) representative. It has been an honor and an interesting experience to attend these meetings.ADVERTISINGNo two meetings are the same, each has its own personality and culture that shows through in the event’s design. Some serve full meals, while others have appetizers, desserts or charcuterie boards. I’ve attended breakfasts, dinners and events at all times in between. The meeting programs range from educational to motivational, some feature remarks from elected representatives and others are just the essential business and recognitions for accomplishments in the previous years.The recognitions are one of my favorite parts. There are a variety of awards given by most counties with eligible candidates including the Century Farm awards for farms that have been in continuous ownership of the same family for 100 years, Farm Family of the Year recognizing the service of a family to the organization, Friend of Agriculture or Distinguished Service awards for contributors to the agriculture community and the Natural Resources award celebrating conservation practices on the farm.It is cool to hear about how a family farm has grown and changed of over a century, what farmers are doing to improve the health and sustainability of their most important resources and how individuals are making an impact on agriculture and their communities through service. Farmers don’t seek or get a lot of recognition and these awards are a small way to recognize years of small and large contributions both lead to significant results over time.The other thing that really makes attending the meetings a joy for me is the people. It is fun to meet new people and learn about their farms or to see members I have known for years and catch up on life and how crops are looking in their part of the world. There is something incredibly affirming about being in a room full of people who share your values, goals and challenges.Since the pandemic many organizations have struggled to get event attendance back to former levels. Even though events may not be as full as they once were, I am thankful that organizations keep innovating and trying. Farming can be a lonely and somewhat thankless profession. It is important that we have meetings, harvest parties or grower education that bring people together to share a meal, new ideas and good conversation.Whether you are a farmer or not, there are organizations and businesses in your community hosting meetings or celebrations. Make time to attend an event because we need to celebrate each other’s success and look forward to better ways. We need to appreciate our community and the people in it."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.Copyright © 2024 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: The joy in meeting season

Precipitation data courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/">CoCoRaHS</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">The National Weather Service</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Following precipitation events, Salina Post will update this page with precipitation totals.&nbsp;

As of 08/13/2024 at 8:02 a.m.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648176291467.jpeg" alt="CoCoRaHS logo.jpg" />
 <figcaption>CoCoRaHS logo.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTPrecipitation data courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/">CoCoRaHS</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">The National Weather Service</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following precipitation events, Salina Post will update this page with precipitation totals.&nbsp;As of 08/13/2024 at 8:02 a.m.Salina&nbsp;—0.54 inchesEllsworth — 0.83 inchesKanopolis&nbsp;— 1.29 inchesLindsborg — 0.80 inchesAbilene — 0.43 inchesClay Center — 0.48 inchesMinneapolis — 0.50 inchesBeverly — 0.58 inchesMcPherson — 2.47 inchesGypsum — 0.96 inchesInman — 1.86 incheaPeabody — 1.07 inchesAssaria — 0.64 inches

CoCoRaHS 24-hour rain totals

K-State Salina Two residents at the&nbsp;<a href="https://salinarescuemission.com/">Salina Rescue Mission</a>are elevating their skills and education in airplane mechanics through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/professional-education/aviation-maintenance/">Aviation Maintenance Certification Program</a>&nbsp;offered at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/">Kansas State University Salina</a>. The program,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/2024-04/KState-Salina-offering-Aviation-Maintenance-Certification-scholarships.html">which began classes in May 2024</a>, is currently instructing five participants in the necessary skills and education to become&nbsp;<a href="https://www.faa.gov/licenses_certificates/airline_certification/amts">Federal Aviation Administration Part 147-approved aircraft mechanics</a>&nbsp;by providing training from aviation maintenance faculty experts at K-State Salina. By completion of the 34-week program, participants will have gained the knowledge and ability necessary to pursue an in-demand, high-paying career.

The two Salina Rescue Mission residents participating in the Aviation Maintenance Certification Program had their education expenses paid for thanks to donors to the organization, with the hope that they will be able to find a full-time career by completing the program. The residents also have prior experience in automotive mechanics and steel working, which complements the training in the Aviation Maintenance Certification Program. While participants of the program must attend classes full-time for 34 weeks, they can expect to enter an in-demand career as the aviation maintenance industry needs more qualified aircraft mechanics. Because of the need, The Aviation Maintenance Certification Program was established through Saline County's share of federal COVID relief funding to help provide economic growth to the county and provide residents with learning opportunities that they might not otherwise have access to and a chance for a better employment situation.

"There is a high need for aviation maintenance professionals nationally," said Kirsten Zoller, executive director for strategic initiatives at K-State Salina. "That need also extends to Saline County, where many businesses are searching for qualified aircraft mechanics. As we have continued conversations with our industry partners, the Aviation Maintenance Certification Program is one way our campus wants to expand our engagement programs and increase our impact on Saline County and Kansas residents."

As K-State continues its mission to lead the nation as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/next-gen/">a next-generation land-grant university</a>, K-State Salina's role includes setting the standard for developing talent in the aerospace and technology industries and inspiring learning that will impact society and transform lives in Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723486535180.jpeg" alt="Through its Aviation Maintenance Certification Program, K-State Salina is helping five participants — including two Salina Rescue Mission residents — learn the skills needed for in-demand, high-paying.&nbsp;The men in the photo&nbsp;are Tait Middleton (left), an aviation mechanic at K-State, and Mark Lundquist (right), Senior Maintenance Manager in K-State flight maintenance.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Through its Aviation Maintenance Certification Program, K-State Salina is helping five participants — including two Salina Rescue Mission residents — learn the skills needed for in-demand, high-paying.&nbsp;The men in the photo&nbsp;are Tait Middleton (left), an aviation mechanic at K-State, and Mark Lundquist (right), Senior Maintenance Manager in K-State flight maintenance.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Salina Two residents at the&nbsp;<a href="https://salinarescuemission.com/">Salina Rescue Mission</a>are elevating their skills and education in airplane mechanics through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/professional-education/aviation-maintenance/">Aviation Maintenance Certification Program</a>&nbsp;offered at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/">Kansas State University Salina</a>. The program,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/2024-04/KState-Salina-offering-Aviation-Maintenance-Certification-scholarships.html">which began classes in May 2024</a>, is currently instructing five participants in the necessary skills and education to become&nbsp;<a href="https://www.faa.gov/licenses_certificates/airline_certification/amts">Federal Aviation Administration Part 147-approved aircraft mechanics</a>&nbsp;by providing training from aviation maintenance faculty experts at K-State Salina. By completion of the 34-week program, participants will have gained the knowledge and ability necessary to pursue an in-demand, high-paying career. The two Salina Rescue Mission residents participating in the Aviation Maintenance Certification Program had their education expenses paid for thanks to donors to the organization, with the hope that they will be able to find a full-time career by completing the program. The residents also have prior experience in automotive mechanics and steel working, which complements the training in the Aviation Maintenance Certification Program. While participants of the program must attend classes full-time for 34 weeks, they can expect to enter an in-demand career as the aviation maintenance industry needs more qualified aircraft mechanics. Because of the need, The Aviation Maintenance Certification Program was established through Saline County's share of federal COVID relief funding to help provide economic growth to the county and provide residents with learning opportunities that they might not otherwise have access to and a chance for a better employment situation."There is a high need for aviation maintenance professionals nationally," said Kirsten Zoller, executive director for strategic initiatives at K-State Salina. "That need also extends to Saline County, where many businesses are searching for qualified aircraft mechanics. As we have continued conversations with our industry partners, the Aviation Maintenance Certification Program is one way our campus wants to expand our engagement programs and increase our impact on Saline County and Kansas residents." As K-State continues its mission to lead the nation as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/next-gen/">a next-generation land-grant university</a>, K-State Salina's role includes setting the standard for developing talent in the aerospace and technology industries and inspiring learning that will impact society and transform lives in Kansas.

K-State program gives Salina Rescue Mission residents the skills required for airplane maintenance

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.

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation and Failure to Appear

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Failure to Appear

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Probation Violation and Outside warrant/NCIC hit

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Svendblad-Valladares, Napoleon

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/2024/8/1723550742263.png" alt="Thompson, Rickey Gene" />
 <figcaption>Thompson, Rickey Gene</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Thompson, Rickey GeneREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723550800405.png" alt="Bell, Deric Joseph" />
 <figcaption>Bell, Deric Joseph</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Bell, Deric JosephREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723550869073.png" alt="DuBree, Skyler Walker" />
 <figcaption>DuBree, Skyler Walker</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;DuBree, Skyler WalkerREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation and Failure to Appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723550926698.png" alt="Guillen, Raul Javier" />
 <figcaption>Guillen, Raul Javier</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Guillen, Raul JavierREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Failure to Appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723550972182.png" alt="Johnson, Austin Michael" />
 <figcaption>Johnson, Austin Michael</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Johnson, Austin MichaelREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Probation Violation and Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723551071182.png" alt="Stubbs, Amanda Ree" />
 <figcaption>Stubbs, Amanda Ree</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Stubbs, Amanda ReeREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Failure to Appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723551119880.png" alt="Svendblad-Valladares, Napoleon" />
 <figcaption>Svendblad-Valladares, Napoleon</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Svendblad-Valladares, NapoleonREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Failure to Appear

Saline County Jail Bookings, Aug. 13

ELLSWORTH COUNTY — Law enforcement across Kansas continue to  see more drivers traveling well above the posted speed limit. On Saturday night, Trooper Jacoby Williams was out on patrol,&nbsp;according to a social media report from the Kansas Highway Patrol.

During his shift, Williams stopped a vehicle on Interstate 70 in Ellsworth County for traveling 114 mph in a 75 mph zone, failing to drive in the right lane, and having an unrestrained child in the car. 

The KHP did not release details on the cost of the ticket or additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723476277152.png" alt="Photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLSWORTH COUNTY — Law enforcement across Kansas continue to see more drivers traveling well above the posted speed limit. On Saturday night, Trooper Jacoby Williams was out on patrol,&nbsp;according to a social media report from the Kansas Highway Patrol.During his shift, Williams stopped a vehicle on Interstate 70 in Ellsworth County for traveling 114 mph in a 75 mph zone, failing to drive in the right lane, and having an unrestrained child in the car. The KHP did not release details on the cost of the ticket or additional details.

KHP: Driver with unrestrained child clocked at 114mph on I-70

<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/about/news/news-archive/rural-populations-medicaid-expansion.html">UMKC News Service</a>

KANSAS CITY — While some studies have found that Medicaid expansion reduces overall mortality rates in states where it has been adopted, a recent study published in the Journal of Rural Health looks more closely at mortality rates in specific populations. This study points to complex factors that may affect mortality differently depending on race, ethnicity, sex and geography.

Looking across the nation using data from states that have expanded Medicaid with federal money, the study indicates many different factors at play.

“The primary takeaway is that Medicaid expansion is unevenly impacting all-cause mortality nationwide,” said J. Tom Mueller, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Population Health at the University of Kansas Medical Center and primary author of the study. “Rural populations are seeing clear negative impacts, and urban populations are seeing only some benefits.”

Mueller is a rural sociologist and demographer focused on inequality, health and well-being in rural America. He focuses on issues of social policy and the environment, attempting to understand why some places have persistently lower health and well-being than others, and what can be done to change that for the better. He came to KU Medical Center from the University of Oklahoma in 2023.

The purpose of this study was to drill down into data to see how different groups fared when their state expanded Medicaid. Mueller noted that these impacts were uneven across ethnic and racial groups, with rural white populations seeing the clearest negative impacts and urban Black populations seeing the greatest evidence of health improvement.

The study showed that Medicaid expansion led to a reduction in all-cause age-adjusted mortality for urban Black populations, but not rural Black populations. Urban white populations experienced mixed effects depending on how many years had passed since Medicaid expansion. Latino populations saw no appreciable impact. While no effect was observed for rural Black and Latino populations, rural white all-cause age-adjusted mortality unexpectedly increased due to Medicaid expansion. These effects reduced rural- and urban-specific mortality disparities among Black and white populations but did not shrink the rural-urban mortality gap.

“To be clear, this does not mean expanding Medicaid is foolhardy or misguided — there is a lot of evidence that it has led to a great number of health improvements nationwide,” Mueller said. “What this means is that the rural health care system, which is already struggling and has long been facing issues of funding, resources and personnel, is not providing rural Americans on Medicaid with the safe and effective health care they need.”

Mueller and his research colleagues from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Florida State University were surprised by the outcome of the study, but Mueller believes it points toward a complex range of issues facing rural Americans.

“Opioid prescribing is higher in rural areas and among Medicaid patients, and chronic pain is far more common in these areas,” Mueller said. “Our ongoing follow-up research suggests that drug overdoses are driving the increase in all-cause mortality, so the picture is starting to come together, but we were neither hoping nor expecting to find this negative outcome for rural Americans.”

Mueller noted that additional research of the complex issues is underway by his team: “We are already studying the impact of Medicaid by cause of death and age group to identify what is driving the increase in all-cause mortality.” He pointed out that the increase in mortality seems largely due to drug overdoses, although there may be some correlations to diseases known to impact rural areas, such as chronic respiratory disease, heart disease and stroke. Another issue affecting rural mortality is the lack of access to health care providers, including a shortage of those who accept Medicaid. Mueller and his research colleagues already are studying these shortages.

“Rural areas have lost many health care services, and many doctors either don’t accept Medicaid at all, or are unwilling to accept new patients. In a rural area with few substitutes, if your local clinic won’t accept Medicaid, you could have a truly difficult time finding care,” Mueller said.

“It is imperative that resources and attention be directed to rural areas to ensure that Medicaid expansion actually results in patients seeing doctors and receiving effective and safe care.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665405753233.png" alt="Pixabay photo" />
 <figcaption>Pixabay photo</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kumc.edu/about/news/news-archive/rural-populations-medicaid-expansion.html">UMKC News Service</a>KANSAS CITY — While some studies have found that Medicaid expansion reduces overall mortality rates in states where it has been adopted, a recent study published in the Journal of Rural Health looks more closely at mortality rates in specific populations. This study points to complex factors that may affect mortality differently depending on race, ethnicity, sex and geography.Looking across the nation using data from states that have expanded Medicaid with federal money, the study indicates many different factors at play.“The primary takeaway is that Medicaid expansion is unevenly impacting all-cause mortality nationwide,” said J. Tom Mueller, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Population Health at the University of Kansas Medical Center and primary author of the study. “Rural populations are seeing clear negative impacts, and urban populations are seeing only some benefits.”<figure>
 <img src="https://www.kumc.edu/images/news/mueller-tom-preferred.jpg" alt="J.&nbsp;Tom Mueller, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Population Health at KU Medical Center. Photo courtesy KU" />
 <figcaption>J.&nbsp;Tom Mueller, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Population Health at KU Medical Center. Photo courtesy KU</figcaption>
 </figure>Mueller is a rural sociologist and demographer focused on inequality, health and well-being in rural America. He focuses on issues of social policy and the environment, attempting to understand why some places have persistently lower health and well-being than others, and what can be done to change that for the better. He came to KU Medical Center from the University of Oklahoma in 2023.The purpose of this study was to drill down into data to see how different groups fared when their state expanded Medicaid. Mueller noted that these impacts were uneven across ethnic and racial groups, with rural white populations seeing the clearest negative impacts and urban Black populations seeing the greatest evidence of health improvement.The study showed that Medicaid expansion led to a reduction in all-cause age-adjusted mortality for urban Black populations, but not rural Black populations. Urban white populations experienced mixed effects depending on how many years had passed since Medicaid expansion. Latino populations saw no appreciable impact. While no effect was observed for rural Black and Latino populations, rural white all-cause age-adjusted mortality unexpectedly increased due to Medicaid expansion. These effects reduced rural- and urban-specific mortality disparities among Black and white populations but did not shrink the rural-urban mortality gap.“To be clear, this does not mean expanding Medicaid is foolhardy or misguided — there is a lot of evidence that it has led to a great number of health improvements nationwide,” Mueller said. “What this means is that the rural health care system, which is already struggling and has long been facing issues of funding, resources and personnel, is not providing rural Americans on Medicaid with the safe and effective health care they need.”Mueller and his research colleagues from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Florida State University were surprised by the outcome of the study, but Mueller believes it points toward a complex range of issues facing rural Americans.“Opioid prescribing is higher in rural areas and among Medicaid patients, and chronic pain is far more common in these areas,” Mueller said. “Our ongoing follow-up research suggests that drug overdoses are driving the increase in all-cause mortality, so the picture is starting to come together, but we were neither hoping nor expecting to find this negative outcome for rural Americans.”Mueller noted that additional research of the complex issues is underway by his team: “We are already studying the impact of Medicaid by cause of death and age group to identify what is driving the increase in all-cause mortality.” He pointed out that the increase in mortality seems largely due to drug overdoses, although there may be some correlations to diseases known to impact rural areas, such as chronic respiratory disease, heart disease and stroke. Another issue affecting rural mortality is the lack of access to health care providers, including a shortage of those who accept Medicaid. Mueller and his research colleagues already are studying these shortages.“Rural areas have lost many health care services, and many doctors either don’t accept Medicaid at all, or are unwilling to accept new patients. In a rural area with few substitutes, if your local clinic won’t accept Medicaid, you could have a truly difficult time finding care,” Mueller said.“It is imperative that resources and attention be directed to rural areas to ensure that Medicaid expansion actually results in patients seeing doctors and receiving effective and safe care.”

KU study: Rural populations may experience uneven effects of Medicaid expansion 

Two separate vehicle wrecks on Friday afternoon in Saline County resulted in injuries and significant vehicle damage, according to the Saline County Sheriff's Office.

The first wreck happened at approximately 3:37 p.m. at the intersection of Smolan Road and Centennial Road. Saline County Sheriff Rroger Soldan said a Saline County deputy was parked in a field entrance along Smolan Road conducting radar operations when a passing vehicle stopped to report a potentially dangerous situation. 

"He [deputy] was sitting in a field entrance when a car stopped beside him to tell him about a vehicle that they'd met, that the door looked like it was part part way open," Soldan said. "They thought somebody's trying to jump out."

The deputy had also observed the vehicle in question, and reassured them that it was likely a minor issue — a box inside the car was preventing the door from closing fully. 

As the reporting vehicle attempted to pull away, it was rear-ended by another car. The stopped vehicle a white 2011 Ford Taurus driven by a 49-year-old woman from Lindsborg was struck from behind by a white 1989 Ford Mustang convertible driven by 19-year-old Smolan—the convertible sustained front-end damage.

&nbsp;"The driver was not injured, however, the other three passengers in the Taurus were complaining of some pain and were transported by EMS to Salina Regional," Soldan said.&nbsp;

 The 19-year-old was not injured in the accident. The deputy's nearby vehicle was fortunately not damaged.

Just 22 minutes later, at 3:59 p.m., another vehicle wreck occurred at the intersection of K-140 and Halstead Road. A tan 1999 Chevy Blazer driven by 19-year-old Tucker Lewis of Salina failed to stop at the intersection and collided with the driver's side of a silver 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. Seventy-two-year-old of Marquette drove the Beetle.

Lewis was cited for failing to stop.&nbsp;

Kretzer suffered cuts on his head and arm and was taken to Salina Regional Health Center by EMS. Lewis was driving northbound on Halstead Road and was uninjured.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592843658087.jpeg" alt="Saline County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Saline County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTTwo separate vehicle wrecks on Friday afternoon in Saline County resulted in injuries and significant vehicle damage, according to the Saline County Sheriff's Office.The first wreck happened at approximately 3:37 p.m. at the intersection of Smolan Road and Centennial Road. Saline County Sheriff Rroger Soldan said a Saline County deputy was parked in a field entrance along Smolan Road conducting radar operations when a passing vehicle stopped to report a potentially dangerous situation. "He [deputy] was sitting in a field entrance when a car stopped beside him to tell him about a vehicle that they'd met, that the door looked like it was part part way open," Soldan said. "They thought somebody's trying to jump out."The deputy had also observed the vehicle in question, and reassured them that it was likely a minor issue — a box inside the car was preventing the door from closing fully. As the reporting vehicle attempted to pull away, it was rear-ended by another car. The stopped vehicle a white 2011 Ford Taurus driven by a 49-year-old woman from Lindsborg was struck from behind by a white 1989 Ford Mustang convertible driven by 19-year-old Smolan—the convertible sustained front-end damage.&nbsp;"The driver was not injured, however, the other three passengers in the Taurus were complaining of some pain and were transported by EMS to Salina Regional," Soldan said.&nbsp; The 19-year-old was not injured in the accident. The deputy's nearby vehicle was fortunately not damaged.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723491836378.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Silver 2001 Volkswagen Beetle driven by&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Silver 2001 Volkswagen Beetle driven by&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Just 22 minutes later, at 3:59 p.m., another vehicle wreck occurred at the intersection of K-140 and Halstead Road. A tan 1999 Chevy Blazer driven by 19-year-old Tucker Lewis of Salina failed to stop at the intersection and collided with the driver's side of a silver 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. Seventy-two-year-old of Marquette drove the Beetle.Lewis was cited for failing to stop.&nbsp;Kretzer suffered cuts on his head and arm and was taken to Salina Regional Health Center by EMS. Lewis was driving northbound on Halstead Road and was uninjured.

Two vehicle wrecks in Saline County Friday afternoon leave several injured

Office of the Treasurer for the State of Kansas

In anticipation of National Nonprofit Day on August 17, State Treasurer Steven Johnson announced that his office is initiating a week-long outreach effort to encourage nonprofit organizations across Kansas to search for unclaimed property that rightfully belongs to them. Dedicated staff will focus on raising awareness that many nonprofit organizations are entitled to a share of over $640 million of unclaimed property held by the state. These funds include forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance proceeds, and more.&nbsp;

The Kansas Unclaimed Property Division will spend the week leading up to National Nonprofit Day contacting a range of organizations that may not be aware of missing money held in their name. Outreach efforts will include school districts, civic groups, charitable foundations, faith-based organizations and more. These efforts will educate potential claimants on the claims process and offer assistance if needed.&nbsp;

“Given the many needs nonprofits meet within Kansas communities, we know that any funds returned to nonprofit organizations will have a multiplied effect in the community they serve,” said Treasurer Johnson. “We want to find and return every dollar we can to further support the essential services many nonprofits provide.”&nbsp;

The Treasurer’s office encourages all nonprofits to check our database to see if they can “profit” from a portion of the missing money held within the unclaimed property division. To initiate the search for unclaimed property, nonprofits are encouraged to visit www.treasurer.ks.gov. The website provides step-by-step instructions and resources to facilitate the reclaiming process. Nonprofits may also inquire about the unclaimed property process by emailing nonprofit@treasurer.ks.gov or calling 785.291.3171.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683385661997.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of the Treasurer for the State of KansasIn anticipation of National Nonprofit Day on August 17, State Treasurer Steven Johnson announced that his office is initiating a week-long outreach effort to encourage nonprofit organizations across Kansas to search for unclaimed property that rightfully belongs to them. Dedicated staff will focus on raising awareness that many nonprofit organizations are entitled to a share of over $640 million of unclaimed property held by the state. These funds include forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance proceeds, and more.&nbsp;The Kansas Unclaimed Property Division will spend the week leading up to National Nonprofit Day contacting a range of organizations that may not be aware of missing money held in their name. Outreach efforts will include school districts, civic groups, charitable foundations, faith-based organizations and more. These efforts will educate potential claimants on the claims process and offer assistance if needed.&nbsp;“Given the many needs nonprofits meet within Kansas communities, we know that any funds returned to nonprofit organizations will have a multiplied effect in the community they serve,” said Treasurer Johnson. “We want to find and return every dollar we can to further support the essential services many nonprofits provide.”&nbsp;The Treasurer’s office encourages all nonprofits to check our database to see if they can “profit” from a portion of the missing money held within the unclaimed property division. To initiate the search for unclaimed property, nonprofits are encouraged to visit www.treasurer.ks.gov. The website provides step-by-step instructions and resources to facilitate the reclaiming process. Nonprofits may also inquire about the unclaimed property process by emailing nonprofit@treasurer.ks.gov or calling 785.291.3171.&nbsp;

State Treasurer urges nonprofits to search and reclaim missing funds 

Salina Police Department (SPD) officers are investigating a burglary that occurred at Dean Evans Stadium sometime during the evening of Thursday, August 8.&nbsp;

SPD Cpt. James Feldman said officers were dispatched to the stadium, located at 1201 Markley Road, at approximately 9:30 a.m. on Friday, August 9.

“Contact was made with employees of Phillips South Electric, who stated that someone had broke into their blue Conex box and stole approximately 2,000 feet of copper wire that was on 500 foot spools,” Feldman said. "Also pulled were wires that were feeding two poles, which was valued at another $2,000.”&nbsp;

Each of the copper wire spools were valued at $500 and the damage to the conex box was valued at $400. The total value of loss is estimated at $4,440.

Currently, there are no surveillance cameras in the area, and no suspects have been identified. The Salina Police Department is urging anyone with information related to the burglary to come forward.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592416874210.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTSalina Police Department (SPD) officers are investigating a burglary that occurred at Dean Evans Stadium sometime during the evening of Thursday, August 8.&nbsp;SPD Cpt. James Feldman said officers were dispatched to the stadium, located at 1201 Markley Road, at approximately 9:30 a.m. on Friday, August 9.“Contact was made with employees of Phillips South Electric, who stated that someone had broke into their blue Conex box and stole approximately 2,000 feet of copper wire that was on 500 foot spools,” Feldman said. "Also pulled were wires that were feeding two poles, which was valued at another $2,000.”&nbsp;Each of the copper wire spools were valued at $500 and the damage to the conex box was valued at $400. The total value of loss is estimated at $4,440.Currently, there are no surveillance cameras in the area, and no suspects have been identified. The Salina Police Department is urging anyone with information related to the burglary to come forward.

Copper wire burglary at Dean Evans Stadium in Salina, SPD looking for suspects

Salina Police Department (SPD) officers responded to a series of incidents on Saturday including road rage and theft, which led to the arrest of a Salina man on multiple charges.

At approximately 7:30 p.m, on Saturday, Aug. 10, SPD officers responded to the 400 block of Baker Street for a hit-and-run accident. The victim, who owns a 2009 Ford Fusion, reported they heard a loud crash and discovered damage to&nbsp; their vehicle consistent with being struck by a Lincoln SUV. 

Surveillance of Ring doorbell camera footage in the area corroborated the victim’s account.

While investigating the hit-and-run, officers were dispatched to Salina Regional Health Center for a reported road rage incident. 

"Contact was made with a 59-year-old male of Salina and a 39-year-old male of Salina that indicated they were driving on Santa Fe when, what they described as a Lincoln SUV came up upon them at a very quick speed, began following them, and at several points the driver exited the vehicle," said SPD Cpt. James Feldman.&nbsp;

The driver allegedly threatened the victims and engaged in reckless driving.

Not long after arriving at Salina Regional Health Center, officers received reports of&nbsp; a theft at Casey’s on Ninth and Crawford. As officers arrived, a silver Lincoln SUV matching the description from the previous incidents was observed leaving the scene.

"As it was pulling out, an officer was arriving in the area. The officer attempted to stop it [suspect's vehicle] but it did not immediately stop," Feldman said. " It turned on to Santa Fe, went northbound, where it finally pulled over in the area of Santa Fe and Prescott."

The driver of the vehicle was identified as 32-year-old Julius Eagle Feather Johnson, of Salina.&nbsp;

Eagle Feather Johnson was arrested on requested charges of DUI, theft, failure to yield to an emergency vehicle, no valid driver’s license, no proof of insurance, and improper turn. 

Feldman said evidence collected at the scene indicated that the Lincoln SUV involved in the hit-and-run and road rage incidents was the same SUV which belonged to Eagle Feather Johnson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723386542342.jpeg" alt="Eagle Feather Johnson,Julius Dakota" />
 <figcaption>Eagle Feather Johnson,Julius Dakota</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTSalina Police Department (SPD) officers responded to a series of incidents on Saturday including road rage and theft, which led to the arrest of a Salina man on multiple charges.At approximately 7:30 p.m, on Saturday, Aug. 10, SPD officers responded to the 400 block of Baker Street for a hit-and-run accident. The victim, who owns a 2009 Ford Fusion, reported they heard a loud crash and discovered damage to&nbsp; their vehicle consistent with being struck by a Lincoln SUV. Surveillance of Ring doorbell camera footage in the area corroborated the victim’s account.While investigating the hit-and-run, officers were dispatched to Salina Regional Health Center for a reported road rage incident. "Contact was made with a 59-year-old male of Salina and a 39-year-old male of Salina that indicated they were driving on Santa Fe when, what they described as a Lincoln SUV came up upon them at a very quick speed, began following them, and at several points the driver exited the vehicle," said SPD Cpt. James Feldman.&nbsp;The driver allegedly threatened the victims and engaged in reckless driving.Not long after arriving at Salina Regional Health Center, officers received reports of&nbsp; a theft at Casey’s on Ninth and Crawford. As officers arrived, a silver Lincoln SUV matching the description from the previous incidents was observed leaving the scene."As it was pulling out, an officer was arriving in the area. The officer attempted to stop it [suspect's vehicle] but it did not immediately stop," Feldman said. " It turned on to Santa Fe, went northbound, where it finally pulled over in the area of Santa Fe and Prescott."The driver of the vehicle was identified as 32-year-old Julius Eagle Feather Johnson, of Salina.&nbsp;Eagle Feather Johnson was arrested on requested charges of DUI, theft, failure to yield to an emergency vehicle, no valid driver’s license, no proof of insurance, and improper turn. Feldman said evidence collected at the scene indicated that the Lincoln SUV involved in the hit-and-run and road rage incidents was the same SUV which belonged to Eagle Feather Johnson.

Salina man arrested for hit-and-run, road rage incident, theft, DUI

Due to&nbsp;the number of recent calls regarding the&nbsp;free&nbsp;residential&nbsp;tree and limb pick-up, the City&nbsp;is issuing&nbsp;this clarification regarding the process, requirements and schedule.&nbsp;

Residents do&nbsp;NOT&nbsp;need to call and schedule a&nbsp;pick up&nbsp;with&nbsp;the&nbsp;City,&nbsp;as&nbsp;City&nbsp;crews are already out picking up limbs in multiple areas.&nbsp;

The time frame for&nbsp;the tree and limb pick-up should take 3-4 weeks to complete.&nbsp;The City crews will revisit all residential areas in the City for final pick-up. Final pick-up is scheduled to begin August 19. All debris and limbs need to be at the curb before this date.&nbsp;

Residents are advised to stack their limbs neatly on the curb, with tree debris and limbs not exceeding ten feet in individual length.&nbsp;If you are having issues cutting and moving tree debris there is a volunteer effort provided by Emergency Management and residents are urged to call&nbsp;(785) 826-6511&nbsp;for assistance.&nbsp;

For more information,&nbsp;please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://salina.ks.us/PublicWorks">http://salina.ks.us/PublicWorks</a>&nbsp;or with further questions, contact the&nbsp;City&nbsp;of Salina General Services office at (785) 309-5750.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/515dcf98-45ad-4e68-b2a2-ed8218a2c9e7">📸 UPDATED: Thousands of Salinans lose power, storm damage photos</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675175168613.png" alt="City of Salina" />
 <figcaption>City of Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>City of SalinaDue to&nbsp;the number of recent calls regarding the&nbsp;free&nbsp;residential&nbsp;tree and limb pick-up, the City&nbsp;is issuing&nbsp;this clarification regarding the process, requirements and schedule.&nbsp;Residents do&nbsp;NOT&nbsp;need to call and schedule a&nbsp;pick up&nbsp;with&nbsp;the&nbsp;City,&nbsp;as&nbsp;City&nbsp;crews are already out picking up limbs in multiple areas.&nbsp;The time frame for&nbsp;the tree and limb pick-up should take 3-4 weeks to complete.&nbsp;The City crews will revisit all residential areas in the City for final pick-up. Final pick-up is scheduled to begin August 19. All debris and limbs need to be at the curb before this date.&nbsp;Residents are advised to stack their limbs neatly on the curb, with tree debris and limbs not exceeding ten feet in individual length.&nbsp;If you are having issues cutting and moving tree debris there is a volunteer effort provided by Emergency Management and residents are urged to call&nbsp;(785) 826-6511&nbsp;for assistance.&nbsp;For more information,&nbsp;please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://salina.ks.us/PublicWorks">http://salina.ks.us/PublicWorks</a>&nbsp;or with further questions, contact the&nbsp;City&nbsp;of Salina General Services office at (785) 309-5750.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/515dcf98-45ad-4e68-b2a2-ed8218a2c9e7">📸 UPDATED: Thousands of Salinans lose power, storm damage photos</a>

UPDATED: City of Salina announces tree limb pick-up clarification

OCCK Transportation is pleased to announce the continuation of the Fall Pass for the CityGo “Get On &amp; Go” program for Salina area youth ages 7-18.&nbsp;

Youth ages 7-18 will be able to purchase a Get On &amp; Go Fall Youth Bus Pass for $10.&nbsp; The pass will be good for unlimited rides on Salina CityGo from September 1 to November 30.&nbsp; Youth must show the drivers their “Get On &amp; Go” pass when they board the buses.&nbsp; Face masks and social distancing policies will be followed as needed.

The Get On &amp; Go Fall Bus Pass is available for purchase online on August 15, 2024, at www.salinacitygo.com and Buy A Pass, with options for pick up.&nbsp; They will also be available at the OCCK Transportation office, 340 N. Santa Fe, starting August 15, 2024.&nbsp;

The Fall Pass will also be available digitally in the Token Transit app.&nbsp; All OCCK Transportation services have a digital fare option.

“We are so excited to continue our Get On &amp; Go program,” said Trell Grinter, Transportation Director for OCCK, Inc.&nbsp; “This program continues to grow in popularity.&nbsp; We are helping kids navigate around Salina, participate in activities and community events, while using public transit, which means learning important life skills while gaining freedom and independence.”

For more information call OCCK Transportation at 826-1583 or go to www.salinacitygo.com.

OCCK, Inc. provides services in north central Kansas to anyone with any type of long or short-term disability, starting as early as birth and following people through their whole lives.&nbsp; OCCK provides an array of supports for success at home and in the community, including independent living skills and supports, employment and career training, Alzheimer’s supports, autism services, assistive technology, children’s services, transportation, specialized therapies, and home health care.

OCCK is committed to providing transportation services to the general public, seniors, and persons with disabilities, through a variety of programs, including a fixed route service in Salina, CityGo, a regional paratransit service that serves fourteen counties, non emergency medical transportation for people with Medicaid, as well as non emergency medical transportation for clients of Salina Regional Health Center, a regional fixed route service, 81 Connection, KANcycle – the regional bike sharing program, GoAbilene public transportation, GoConcordia public transportation, and the newest program, KanConnect.

For more information about OCCK, Inc., visit www.occk.com.&nbsp; For more information about CityGo and OCCK Transportation, visit www.salinacitygo.com. Or, contact the OCCK Transportation Center at 785-826-

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592535836546.jpeg" alt="OCCK green sq.JPG" />
 <figcaption>OCCK green sq.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>OCCK TransportationOCCK Transportation is pleased to announce the continuation of the Fall Pass for the CityGo “Get On &amp; Go” program for Salina area youth ages 7-18.&nbsp;Youth ages 7-18 will be able to purchase a Get On &amp; Go Fall Youth Bus Pass for $10.&nbsp; The pass will be good for unlimited rides on Salina CityGo from September 1 to November 30.&nbsp; Youth must show the drivers their “Get On &amp; Go” pass when they board the buses.&nbsp; Face masks and social distancing policies will be followed as needed.The Get On &amp; Go Fall Bus Pass is available for purchase online on August 15, 2024, at www.salinacitygo.com and Buy A Pass, with options for pick up.&nbsp; They will also be available at the OCCK Transportation office, 340 N. Santa Fe, starting August 15, 2024.&nbsp;The Fall Pass will also be available digitally in the Token Transit app.&nbsp; All OCCK Transportation services have a digital fare option.“We are so excited to continue our Get On &amp; Go program,” said Trell Grinter, Transportation Director for OCCK, Inc.&nbsp; “This program continues to grow in popularity.&nbsp; We are helping kids navigate around Salina, participate in activities and community events, while using public transit, which means learning important life skills while gaining freedom and independence.”For more information call OCCK Transportation at 826-1583 or go to www.salinacitygo.com.OCCK, Inc. provides services in north central Kansas to anyone with any type of long or short-term disability, starting as early as birth and following people through their whole lives.&nbsp; OCCK provides an array of supports for success at home and in the community, including independent living skills and supports, employment and career training, Alzheimer’s supports, autism services, assistive technology, children’s services, transportation, specialized therapies, and home health care.OCCK is committed to providing transportation services to the general public, seniors, and persons with disabilities, through a variety of programs, including a fixed route service in Salina, CityGo, a regional paratransit service that serves fourteen counties, non emergency medical transportation for people with Medicaid, as well as non emergency medical transportation for clients of Salina Regional Health Center, a regional fixed route service, 81 Connection, KANcycle – the regional bike sharing program, GoAbilene public transportation, GoConcordia public transportation, and the newest program, KanConnect.For more information about OCCK, Inc., visit www.occk.com.&nbsp; For more information about CityGo and OCCK Transportation, visit www.salinacitygo.com. Or, contact the OCCK Transportation Center at 785-826-

OCCK Transportation announces 'Get on & Go' program for Salina youth 

On Monday, August 12 through Wednesday, August 1, Circle C Paving and Construction, LLC of Goddard, Kansas will continue the City of Salina’s annual chip seal project by placing a fog seal. The schedule is as follows, weather permitting:

Fog sealing is a method of sealing the new pavement surface which prolongs the serviceability of streets. Combined with joint and crack sealing, this surface treatment program extends the service life of pavement.

Owners and occupants along residential streets will be notified ahead of time that their streets will be closed to traffic while the work is being completed. Motorists are encouraged to avoid the construction altogether and find alternate routes to their destinations while the work is occurring.

The $327,900 project is a major component of the City of Salina’s 2024 $5.9 million maintenance capital improvement program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689115226278.jpeg" alt="City of Salina Logo" />
 <figcaption>City of Salina Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>On Monday, August 12 through Wednesday, August 1, Circle C Paving and Construction, LLC of Goddard, Kansas will continue the City of Salina’s annual chip seal project by placing a fog seal. The schedule is as follows, weather permitting:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723471234091.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fog sealing is a method of sealing the new pavement surface which prolongs the serviceability of streets. Combined with joint and crack sealing, this surface treatment program extends the service life of pavement.Owners and occupants along residential streets will be notified ahead of time that their streets will be closed to traffic while the work is being completed. Motorists are encouraged to avoid the construction altogether and find alternate routes to their destinations while the work is occurring.The $327,900 project is a major component of the City of Salina’s 2024 $5.9 million maintenance capital improvement program.

Annual chip seal project continues in South Salina

The Lindsborg Old Mill and Swedish Heritage Museum is excited to announce the hiring of its new&nbsp;Executive Director – Aubrey Wheeler, who started on August 1, 2024.

Wheeler said she was excited for the new role.

“It’s a change, but I’m looking forward to the challenge and opportunity here,” she said.&nbsp;“I’m also looking forward to having a community, as well as volunteers and staff, that’s so engaged.”

Located on 15 acres along the Smoky Hill River, the Old Mill Museum is home to two buildings on the National Register of Historic Places – the 1898 Smoky Valley Roller Mills (the only historic roller mills in the Midwest that can still operate) and the 1904 World’s Fair Swedish Pavilion.&nbsp;The museum also conserves another 10 historic buildings – as well as campgrounds, historic archives, and&nbsp;large&nbsp;artifact collection centered on&nbsp;the story of the Smoky Valley.

Wheeler said she has visited the Old Mill Museum before her hiring and that what really attracted her to apply as Executive Director was how Lindsborg celebrates its Swedish heritage and&nbsp;supports its local museum.

“The community, that was the biggest draw for me,” she said.“I’ve been here multiple times and that always stood out to me.”

Wheeler brings strong museum credentials to her new role, with an Associate of Arts from Hutchinson Community&nbsp;College;&nbsp;and a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology, Museum Studies Certification, and Master of Anthropology from Wichita State University.

Prior to the Lindsborg Museum, Wheeler was the Director and Curator of the City of Marion Historical Museum since 2020, working to put the museum on standard museum practices, cataloging the collection, designing exhibits, coordinating volunteers,&nbsp;fundraising,&nbsp;and managing marketing strategy.

As a volunteer, Wheeler has also served as President of the Marion County Historical Society since Spring 2023 and spent two weeks assisting the&nbsp;Etzanoa&nbsp;excavation in Arkansas City, Kansas, in 2019.

As Wheeler begins as Executive Director, the previous director – Lenora Lynam – is&nbsp;stepping back, but still&nbsp;staying on as the museum’s Mission Director.&nbsp;

Lynam has worked at the Old Mill Museum since 1980&nbsp;and led the museum as director through an important time of transition for more than two years during its early days of going from county-owned to independent nonprofit. During her tenure, museum membership more than doubled, annual attendance recovered to now exceed pre-pandemic levels, grants received totaled&nbsp;more than $840,000, and annual fundraising blossomed. She also oversaw critical repairs and renovations to seven of the buildings on campus – including the Swedish Pavilion and Old Mill.

“This museum has a lot of my own heart in it,” Lynam said. “I want to do everything I can to help this be a smooth and seamless transition&nbsp;as I’m handing it off to a new generation.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723466164883.jpeg" alt="Aubrey Wheeler" />
 <figcaption>Aubrey Wheeler</figcaption>
 </figure>The Lindsborg Old Mill and Swedish Heritage Museum is excited to announce the hiring of its new&nbsp;Executive Director – Aubrey Wheeler, who started on August 1, 2024.Wheeler said she was excited for the new role.“It’s a change, but I’m looking forward to the challenge and opportunity here,” she said.&nbsp;“I’m also looking forward to having a community, as well as volunteers and staff, that’s so engaged.”Located on 15 acres along the Smoky Hill River, the Old Mill Museum is home to two buildings on the National Register of Historic Places – the 1898 Smoky Valley Roller Mills (the only historic roller mills in the Midwest that can still operate) and the 1904 World’s Fair Swedish Pavilion.&nbsp;The museum also conserves another 10 historic buildings – as well as campgrounds, historic archives, and&nbsp;large&nbsp;artifact collection centered on&nbsp;the story of the Smoky Valley.Wheeler said she has visited the Old Mill Museum before her hiring and that what really attracted her to apply as Executive Director was how Lindsborg celebrates its Swedish heritage and&nbsp;supports its local museum.“The community, that was the biggest draw for me,” she said.“I’ve been here multiple times and that always stood out to me.”Wheeler brings strong museum credentials to her new role, with an Associate of Arts from Hutchinson Community&nbsp;College;&nbsp;and a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology, Museum Studies Certification, and Master of Anthropology from Wichita State University.Prior to the Lindsborg Museum, Wheeler was the Director and Curator of the City of Marion Historical Museum since 2020, working to put the museum on standard museum practices, cataloging the collection, designing exhibits, coordinating volunteers,&nbsp;fundraising,&nbsp;and managing marketing strategy.As a volunteer, Wheeler has also served as President of the Marion County Historical Society since Spring 2023 and spent two weeks assisting the&nbsp;Etzanoa&nbsp;excavation in Arkansas City, Kansas, in 2019.As Wheeler begins as Executive Director, the previous director – Lenora Lynam – is&nbsp;stepping back, but still&nbsp;staying on as the museum’s Mission Director.&nbsp;Lynam has worked at the Old Mill Museum since 1980&nbsp;and led the museum as director through an important time of transition for more than two years during its early days of going from county-owned to independent nonprofit. During her tenure, museum membership more than doubled, annual attendance recovered to now exceed pre-pandemic levels, grants received totaled&nbsp;more than $840,000, and annual fundraising blossomed. She also oversaw critical repairs and renovations to seven of the buildings on campus – including the Swedish Pavilion and Old Mill.“This museum has a lot of my own heart in it,” Lynam said. “I want to do everything I can to help this be a smooth and seamless transition&nbsp;as I’m handing it off to a new generation.”Wheeler said she plans to continue building on the foundation of leadership already established at the museum in recent years – establishing more financial stability, building more community outreach, bringing in rotating exhibits on a regular schedule, and increasing a multitude of programming opportunities.The museum is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday.&nbsp;Learn more about the museum at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.oldmillmuseum.org/">www.oldmillmuseum.org</a>.

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