In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King speaks with Chad Young, Executive Director of Salina Grace and the Salina Rescue Mission, about the ongoing efforts to address homelessness in Salina. The conversation covers the role of the low-barrier winter shelter, the developments taking place at the Salina Grace Resource Center, 315 S. Broadway Blvd. and the collaborative approach taken by local organizations to provide essential services.

Chad shares insights into the challenges faced by unhoused individuals, the barriers to accessing resources, and how targeted efforts aim to help people transition toward stability. This discussion offers a clear-eyed look at the complexity of homelessness and the strategies implemented to make meaningful progress in the Salina area.&nbsp;

Double Your Impact: $100,000 Matching Gift Challenge to Support Salina Rescue Mission

The Salina Rescue Mission has incredible news to share. Through the end of the year, every donation made to the Rescue Mission will be doubled, thanks to a $100,000 matching gift challenge. This means that your $100 donation will have the power to provide $200 worth of support to help care for our homeless neighbors.

“We have seen a rise in the past couple of years in the numbers of those experiencing homelessness. With rising costs, those on fixed incomes or working at entry-level wages are finding it tougher to make ends meet,”said Chad Young, 

The challenges facing our community are significant: rising living costs, mental health crises, addiction, and poverty. Yet, the Salina Rescue Mission remains steadfast in its mission to provide food, shelter, clothing, and restorative programs to men experiencing homelessness. By addressing critical issues such as financial literacy and sobriety in a supportive, Christ-centered environment, the Mission empowers individuals to rebuild their lives.

In 2023 alone, the Mission served over 63,000 meals and is currently providing shelter and opportunities to 80-85 men each night. Many in our community may not realize that we offer lunch and supper to anyone in need, seven days a week. Breakfast is served exclusively to our residents. Every meal served and every life transformed is made possible by the generosity of donors.

As a Christian ministry, the Salina Rescue Mission receives no government funding. Instead, we rely on the faith and kindness of our community to live out the Biblical model of loving and caring for neighbors in need. This matching gift challenge is a unique opportunity for donors to maximize the impact of their generosity, making a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most.

“Supporting the Rescue Mission is not just a worthwhile investment in our community; it’s a meaningful way to extend hope and compassion to a neighbor in need this Christmas season,” says Pastor Young.

For more information on how to get involved or support,<a href="https://salinagrace.org/donate/"> click here.</a>&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Chad Young, Executive Director Salina Grace, Salina Rescue Mission" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=m4q6u-17610d3-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By SALINA POSTIn this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King speaks with Chad Young, Executive Director of Salina Grace and the Salina Rescue Mission, about the ongoing efforts to address homelessness in Salina. The conversation covers the role of the low-barrier winter shelter, the developments taking place at the Salina Grace Resource Center, 315 S. Broadway Blvd. and the collaborative approach taken by local organizations to provide essential services.Chad shares insights into the challenges faced by unhoused individuals, the barriers to accessing resources, and how targeted efforts aim to help people transition toward stability. This discussion offers a clear-eyed look at the complexity of homelessness and the strategies implemented to make meaningful progress in the Salina area.&nbsp;Double Your Impact: $100,000 Matching Gift Challenge to Support Salina Rescue MissionThe Salina Rescue Mission has incredible news to share. Through the end of the year, every donation made to the Rescue Mission will be doubled, thanks to a $100,000 matching gift challenge. This means that your $100 donation will have the power to provide $200 worth of support to help care for our homeless neighbors.“We have seen a rise in the past couple of years in the numbers of those experiencing homelessness. With rising costs, those on fixed incomes or working at entry-level wages are finding it tougher to make ends meet,”said Chad Young, The challenges facing our community are significant: rising living costs, mental health crises, addiction, and poverty. Yet, the Salina Rescue Mission remains steadfast in its mission to provide food, shelter, clothing, and restorative programs to men experiencing homelessness. By addressing critical issues such as financial literacy and sobriety in a supportive, Christ-centered environment, the Mission empowers individuals to rebuild their lives.In 2023 alone, the Mission served over 63,000 meals and is currently providing shelter and opportunities to 80-85 men each night. Many in our community may not realize that we offer lunch and supper to anyone in need, seven days a week. Breakfast is served exclusively to our residents. Every meal served and every life transformed is made possible by the generosity of donors.As a Christian ministry, the Salina Rescue Mission receives no government funding. Instead, we rely on the faith and kindness of our community to live out the Biblical model of loving and caring for neighbors in need. This matching gift challenge is a unique opportunity for donors to maximize the impact of their generosity, making a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most.“Supporting the Rescue Mission is not just a worthwhile investment in our community; it’s a meaningful way to extend hope and compassion to a neighbor in need this Christmas season,” says Pastor Young.For more information on how to get involved or support,<a href="https://salinagrace.org/donate/"> click here.</a>&nbsp;

🎙King in the Community — Chad Young, Salina Grace, Salina Rescue Mission

By JASON GRAVES K-State Research and Extension Central District&nbsp;Horticulturist

The winter solstice is an important and yet complicated time of year. The shortest days and longest nights of winter affect us both physically and mentally as gardeners and as people in general. Yet, the darkness of the longest night of the year also marks the beginning of a season filled with new light and hope. This duality—of darkness giving way to light—makes the solstice a profound time for reflection and renewal.

This is a key message of the Christmas season: when it is darkest, something new is going to begin. It’s a reminder that even in challenging times, growth and transformation are possible.

Gardeners are familiar with starting seeds, and nowhere is this message clearer than in the process of watching a new seedling germinate out of the darkness of the soil. In fact, some garden seeds actually require the darkness in order to germinate.

A good example of this is the state flower of Kansas, the sunflower. This beautiful summer flower, with its rich and historic symbolism, actually must begin its growth in the dark. The first step is the softening of a hard seed coat. This happens in the darkness of the soil, where the dry seed imbibes (drinks) water. This allows the seed to expand and activates enzymes and food supplies that are needed for the new growth to emerge.

The first thing to emerge from the softened seed is the root (also called the radicle). After this, the shoot will expand and emerge from the seed. Once the shoot breaks through the dark soil and into the light, dramatic changes occur. Perhaps one of the most remarkable transformations is how it turns green. This color change is part of a process called photomorphogenesis, and it allows the shoot to capture light energy and begin photosynthesis.

Without a time of darkness in the moist soil, the tough sunflower seed coat simply won’t soften to allow the new growth to begin. This time in the dark is the essential first step in reaching the light.

In many ways, I can relate. It often takes a period of ‘seed coat softening’ for me to grow as well. Times where challenges or pain make my world feel dark often end up being the very place where something new needs to begin. Pride can give way to a willingness to receive and to grow, just as the seed opens itself to the nourishment of the soil.

As gardeners, we have the privilege of witnessing this transformation in plants and reflecting on its deeper meaning. Every seed we plant holds a promise of renewal and a reminder that growth often starts in places of darkness. Whether it’s a sunflower, a tomato, or a patch of wildflowers, the process is the same: growth emerges not in spite of the dark, but because of it.

During the winter, when outdoor gardening is limited, why not embrace seed starting as an act of hope? Start some seeds indoors to watch the process unfold in real time. Reflect on the ways this process mirrors our own lives—how challenges and dark times soften our hard seed coats and prepare us for new beginnings.

Our K-State Garden Hour series offers wonderful recorded content on seed starting and planning for vegetable gardens to help you get started.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/consumer-horticulture/garden-hour/">Learn more here</a>.

Then, next spring, consider planting sunflowers, which throughout history have been considered emblematic of the pursuit of light due to their ability to turn toward the sun as they grow. By the time their vibrant heads reach toward the summer sky, they will stand as a testament to the transformative power of moving from darkness into light.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823329994.jpeg" alt="Jason Graves" />
 <figcaption>Jason Graves</figcaption>
 </figure>By JASON GRAVES K-State Research and Extension Central District&nbsp;HorticulturistThe winter solstice is an important and yet complicated time of year. The shortest days and longest nights of winter affect us both physically and mentally as gardeners and as people in general. Yet, the darkness of the longest night of the year also marks the beginning of a season filled with new light and hope. This duality—of darkness giving way to light—makes the solstice a profound time for reflection and renewal.This is a key message of the Christmas season: when it is darkest, something new is going to begin. It’s a reminder that even in challenging times, growth and transformation are possible.Gardeners are familiar with starting seeds, and nowhere is this message clearer than in the process of watching a new seedling germinate out of the darkness of the soil. In fact, some garden seeds actually require the darkness in order to germinate.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735318837223.jpeg" alt="Sunflower image Courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Sunflower image Courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Sunflowers</h2>A good example of this is the state flower of Kansas, the sunflower. This beautiful summer flower, with its rich and historic symbolism, actually must begin its growth in the dark. The first step is the softening of a hard seed coat. This happens in the darkness of the soil, where the dry seed imbibes (drinks) water. This allows the seed to expand and activates enzymes and food supplies that are needed for the new growth to emerge.The first thing to emerge from the softened seed is the root (also called the radicle). After this, the shoot will expand and emerge from the seed. Once the shoot breaks through the dark soil and into the light, dramatic changes occur. Perhaps one of the most remarkable transformations is how it turns green. This color change is part of a process called photomorphogenesis, and it allows the shoot to capture light energy and begin photosynthesis.<h2>From Dark to Light</h2>Without a time of darkness in the moist soil, the tough sunflower seed coat simply won’t soften to allow the new growth to begin. This time in the dark is the essential first step in reaching the light.In many ways, I can relate. It often takes a period of ‘seed coat softening’ for me to grow as well. Times where challenges or pain make my world feel dark often end up being the very place where something new needs to begin. Pride can give way to a willingness to receive and to grow, just as the seed opens itself to the nourishment of the soil.As gardeners, we have the privilege of witnessing this transformation in plants and reflecting on its deeper meaning. Every seed we plant holds a promise of renewal and a reminder that growth often starts in places of darkness. Whether it’s a sunflower, a tomato, or a patch of wildflowers, the process is the same: growth emerges not in spite of the dark, but because of it.<h2>Planting as an Act of Hope</h2>During the winter, when outdoor gardening is limited, why not embrace seed starting as an act of hope? Start some seeds indoors to watch the process unfold in real time. Reflect on the ways this process mirrors our own lives—how challenges and dark times soften our hard seed coats and prepare us for new beginnings.Our K-State Garden Hour series offers wonderful recorded content on seed starting and planning for vegetable gardens to help you get started.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/consumer-horticulture/garden-hour/">Learn more here</a>.Then, next spring, consider planting sunflowers, which throughout history have been considered emblematic of the pursuit of light due to their ability to turn toward the sun as they grow. By the time their vibrant heads reach toward the summer sky, they will stand as a testament to the transformative power of moving from darkness into light.

GRAVES: Gardening as an act of hope

Members of the Salina Granny Brigade are stepping up to provide aid to communities in North Carolina that were severely impacted by Hurricane Helene. The hardest-hit areas, including Newland and Collettsville, are seeking assistance for families who have lost everything due to the storm.

Local organizers have partnered with community contacts in North Carolina to coordinate the donation of essential items, such as hats, gloves, and socks for both kids and adults. Additionally, Walmart and CVS gift cards in various increments are being requested to assist families in purchasing clothing, food, prescriptions, and other necessities.

The Granny Brigade's initial drive earlier this year raised $3,200 and 37 toys.&nbsp;

The Granny Brigade will be taking monetary donations and gift cards at the Eagle Media Center located at 1825 South Ohio in Salina Kansas as well as the Fountain Plaza in Salina located at 2100 South Ninth Street.&nbsp;

Donations can be sent directly to the following contacts in North Carolina:

Gwen Clark 163 Mill Timber Creek LaneNewland, NC 28657 Needed items: Hats, gloves, socks (for kids and adults), Walmart and CVS gift cards.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Deanna Gragg 2960 Old John’s River RoadCollettsville, NC 28611 Specific needs: Gift cards to Walmart and CVS to support two families who lost everything. One family, with four boys, is currently living in a donated camper. Another family includes a non-verbal child and is in urgent need of support.&nbsp;

For questions or additional details, community members can reach out to the following organizers:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686241220831.png" alt="Granny Brigade" />
 <figcaption>Granny Brigade</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedMembers of the Salina Granny Brigade are stepping up to provide aid to communities in North Carolina that were severely impacted by Hurricane Helene. The hardest-hit areas, including Newland and Collettsville, are seeking assistance for families who have lost everything due to the storm.Local organizers have partnered with community contacts in North Carolina to coordinate the donation of essential items, such as hats, gloves, and socks for both kids and adults. Additionally, Walmart and CVS gift cards in various increments are being requested to assist families in purchasing clothing, food, prescriptions, and other necessities.The Granny Brigade's initial drive earlier this year raised $3,200 and 37 toys.&nbsp;<h2>How to Help</h2>The Granny Brigade will be taking monetary donations and gift cards at the Eagle Media Center located at 1825 South Ohio in Salina Kansas as well as the Fountain Plaza in Salina located at 2100 South Ninth Street.&nbsp;Donations can be sent directly to the following contacts in North Carolina:Gwen Clark 163 Mill Timber Creek LaneNewland, NC 28657 Needed items: Hats, gloves, socks (for kids and adults), Walmart and CVS gift cards.&nbsp;&nbsp;Deanna Gragg 2960 Old John’s River RoadCollettsville, NC 28611 Specific needs: Gift cards to Walmart and CVS to support two families who lost everything. One family, with four boys, is currently living in a donated camper. Another family includes a non-verbal child and is in urgent need of support.&nbsp;<h2>Local Contacts</h2>For questions or additional details, community members can reach out to the following organizers:Rosemary: 785-577-5918

Salina Granny Brigade rallies to support hurricane-impacted families

By&nbsp;BLAISE MESA <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/kansas/">The Beacon</a>

An evidence-based fund was created to help minors avoid the criminal justice system. But some groups are struggling to access the money.

Children come to the Sedgwick County Department of Corrections youth intake facility, where he’s the director. They’re already kicked out of school and have nothing to do all day. So, the county corrections department started offering classes.&nbsp;

The kids get at least four months of schooling, and they might also get anger management, grief and trauma counseling. Stonehouse said about 100 children are getting help.&nbsp;

It’s all part of the county’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.doc.ks.gov/juvenile-services/committee/documentation/april-21st-2023/sedgwick-co-evening-reporting-center/view">Evening Reporting Center</a>.&nbsp;

“We have a pretty high tolerance for behavior issues and things like that,” Stonehouse said, adding that youth aren’t kicked out of the program for behavior that would get them kicked out elsewhere.&nbsp;

The programming is funded through a statewide grant designed to help Kansas youth avoid future run-ins with the criminal justice system. Programs in Sedgwick County offer a model of how some people think the money can change a child’s life.&nbsp;

“We pick all the kids up. We provide the transportation. We provide meals and we provide the services,” Stonehouse said. “We take away all the barriers.”

There’s just one problem. Community groups have struggled to get the grant funding, and it isn’t clear yet if recent legislative action has fixed the problem.&nbsp;

In 2023, the state planned to spend $36.3 million on evidence-based programs for minors. Only $9.8 million was spent. Kansas spent more in 2024, divvying out $21.5 million out of a $37.1 million budget.&nbsp;

Donald Hymer, assistant district attorney in Johnson County, is the chair of the group that recommends how the money is spent. The group doesn’t make the final budget decisions, but it has input.&nbsp;

He said the leftover money comes from some groups that overestimate how many children they will help and end up returning some cash. That’s an example of how hard it is to estimate the need for certain programs.&nbsp;

Other groups don’t know the money exists and don’t apply. And for some, the money comes with strict requirements. Before 2024, the money could only be spent on evidence-based programs, which is the highest standard possible.&nbsp;

Stonehouse said his county corrections department has enough staff to go through proper training and keep data on evidence-based programs to meet the grant requirements. Smaller grassroots groups can’t afford to send staff away for training and don’t have the capacity to track data.

“It can be overkill,” Stonehouse said. “Not everybody needs an evidence-based program.”

The Kansas Legislature&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/summary_hb_2021_2023">made it easier</a>&nbsp;to hand out money from the evidence-based fund this year. It OK’d funds to help both the juvenile and their family, which wasn’t previously allowed. The money is also eligible for a broader range of behavioral health issues.&nbsp;

Hymer said he’s happy with how the Legislature has set up the fund, and “the only thing left would be to expand to consider preventative resources or preventative programs.”

Senator-elect Stephen Owens, a Hesston Republican and current House member, recommended lawmakers look again during the 2025 session at the requirements, even though the new changes are less than five months old.&nbsp;

Gov. Laura Kelly has taken $20 million out of the fund before and put it into state general funds. That money was returned, but then lawmakers voted on a motion earlier this year to take $17 million out of the fund again.&nbsp;

“We just want to protect those funds and make sure that they’re helping the kids that they were designed to help,” Owens said.&nbsp;

Mike Fonkert, deputy director of Kansas Appleseed — a group focused on juvenile justice — said his group wants the money to help as many youth as possible. But he said there is a danger of making the money too available.&nbsp;

If that money can be used on more programs and more services, Fonkert said, it might get spread too thin to help the children it was designed for — kids in the criminal justice system.&nbsp;

Fonkert said some at the Statehouse have the perception that none of the money is being spent. That’s not true.&nbsp;

He said the state has done a good job of allocating the money overall, and state officials have been open to helping groups manage the grant process. Could more be done? Perhaps. But Fonkert said the money is accessible now.

The Legislature returns in January, when House and Senate committees are expected to further debate the rules around spending the money.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734976311672.png" alt="Kansas lawmakers made changes to funding requirements this year for programs aimed at juveniles in the criminal justice system. They may make changes in 2025. Credit: Niko Schmidt / The Beacon" />
 <figcaption>Kansas lawmakers made changes to funding requirements this year for programs aimed at juveniles in the criminal justice system. They may make changes in 2025. Credit: Niko Schmidt / The Beacon</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;BLAISE MESA <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/kansas/">The Beacon</a>An evidence-based fund was created to help minors avoid the criminal justice system. But some groups are struggling to access the money.Steve Stonehouse has seen it before.Children come to the Sedgwick County Department of Corrections youth intake facility, where he’s the director. They’re already kicked out of school and have nothing to do all day. So, the county corrections department started offering classes.&nbsp;The kids get at least four months of schooling, and they might also get anger management, grief and trauma counseling. Stonehouse said about 100 children are getting help.&nbsp;It’s all part of the county’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.doc.ks.gov/juvenile-services/committee/documentation/april-21st-2023/sedgwick-co-evening-reporting-center/view">Evening Reporting Center</a>.&nbsp;“We have a pretty high tolerance for behavior issues and things like that,” Stonehouse said, adding that youth aren’t kicked out of the program for behavior that would get them kicked out elsewhere.&nbsp;The programming is funded through a statewide grant designed to help Kansas youth avoid future run-ins with the criminal justice system. Programs in Sedgwick County offer a model of how some people think the money can change a child’s life.&nbsp;“We pick all the kids up. We provide the transportation. We provide meals and we provide the services,” Stonehouse said. “We take away all the barriers.”There’s just one problem. Community groups have struggled to get the grant funding, and it isn’t clear yet if recent legislative action has fixed the problem.&nbsp;In 2023, the state planned to spend $36.3 million on evidence-based programs for minors. Only $9.8 million was spent. Kansas spent more in 2024, divvying out $21.5 million out of a $37.1 million budget.&nbsp;Donald Hymer, assistant district attorney in Johnson County, is the chair of the group that recommends how the money is spent. The group doesn’t make the final budget decisions, but it has input.&nbsp;He said the leftover money comes from some groups that overestimate how many children they will help and end up returning some cash. That’s an example of how hard it is to estimate the need for certain programs.&nbsp;Other groups don’t know the money exists and don’t apply. And for some, the money comes with strict requirements. Before 2024, the money could only be spent on evidence-based programs, which is the highest standard possible.&nbsp;Stonehouse said his county corrections department has enough staff to go through proper training and keep data on evidence-based programs to meet the grant requirements. Smaller grassroots groups can’t afford to send staff away for training and don’t have the capacity to track data.“It can be overkill,” Stonehouse said. “Not everybody needs an evidence-based program.”The Kansas Legislature&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/summary_hb_2021_2023">made it easier</a>&nbsp;to hand out money from the evidence-based fund this year. It OK’d funds to help both the juvenile and their family, which wasn’t previously allowed. The money is also eligible for a broader range of behavioral health issues.&nbsp;Hymer said he’s happy with how the Legislature has set up the fund, and “the only thing left would be to expand to consider preventative resources or preventative programs.”Senator-elect Stephen Owens, a Hesston Republican and current House member, recommended lawmakers look again during the 2025 session at the requirements, even though the new changes are less than five months old.&nbsp;Gov. Laura Kelly has taken $20 million out of the fund before and put it into state general funds. That money was returned, but then lawmakers voted on a motion earlier this year to take $17 million out of the fund again.&nbsp;“We just want to protect those funds and make sure that they’re helping the kids that they were designed to help,” Owens said.&nbsp;Mike Fonkert, deputy director of Kansas Appleseed — a group focused on juvenile justice — said his group wants the money to help as many youth as possible. But he said there is a danger of making the money too available.&nbsp;If that money can be used on more programs and more services, Fonkert said, it might get spread too thin to help the children it was designed for — kids in the criminal justice system.&nbsp;Fonkert said some at the Statehouse have the perception that none of the money is being spent. That’s not true.&nbsp;He said the state has done a good job of allocating the money overall, and state officials have been open to helping groups manage the grant process. Could more be done? Perhaps. But Fonkert said the money is accessible now.The Legislature returns in January, when House and Senate committees are expected to further debate the rules around spending the money.&nbsp;

Millions in Kansas juvenile justice dollars sit unused

Today A 30% chance of rain before noon. Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 53. Southwest wind 3 to 7 mph.

Tonight Mostly cloudy, with a low around 34. Southwest wind around 6 mph becoming calm after midnight. Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 57. Calm wind becoming west-northwest around 6 mph in the afternoon. Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low of around 36. South wind around 6 mph becoming west after midnight. Sunday Sunny, with a high near 58. Northwest wind 5 to 9 mph.

Sunday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735319715919.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Today A 30% chance of rain before noon. Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 53. Southwest wind 3 to 7 mph.Tonight Mostly cloudy, with a low around 34. Southwest wind around 6 mph becoming calm after midnight. Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 57. Calm wind becoming west-northwest around 6 mph in the afternoon. Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low of around 36. South wind around 6 mph becoming west after midnight. Sunday Sunny, with a high near 58. Northwest wind 5 to 9 mph. Sunday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NWS weekend weather forecast

With mixed emotions, Salina City Manager, Mike Schrage, submitted his resignation to the Salina City Commission at their December 23rd City Commission meeting informing them that the Warrensburg, Missouri City Council had appointed him their next city manager earlier that afternoon.

Schrage addressed the City Commission at the end of their meeting expressing his love for the community, his respect and appreciation for the City staff and elected officials, his pride in being a part of the community’s significant progress &amp; successes and providing additional details about the reasons for his family’s decision to return to Missouri at this time.

Additional Remarks from Salina City Manager, Mike Schrage:

My family and I absolutely love Salina! I am thoroughly enjoying the work of being Salina‘s City Manager, now more than ever; and, I sincerely believe the City organization as well as the community as a whole are in the best shape they have been in decades, if not ever.&nbsp;

But . . . It is time for me to begin drawing my pension in Kansas and return to Missouri. have accepted the city manager position in Warrensburg, Missouri. Consequently, I

Not only does it fit in to my family’s financial plans, but it creates an opportunity for my step-father to move in with us; we will be a 30 minute drive from my father-in-law whose health needs are significantly increasing; and, I am extremely excited about the professional opportunity that awaits me and the value that I believe I can add as Warrensburg’s next city manager.

Hopefully, Warrensburg is the last stop in my city management career. I will consider myself blessed if I am lucky enough to be able to look back on my time in Warrensburg as fondly and proudly as Salina.

The timing of this announcement was affected by Warrensburg’s selection process and timeline which has made it a little awkward around the holidays. My last day will be February 7, 2024.

I will be coordinating with City staff to hand off projects &amp; responsibilities in the meantime.&nbsp;

I believe there is undeniable consensus about how successful Salina has been as a community, lately; unprecedented excitement about the community momentum that has been built; and significant optimism about our future!

I have certainly enjoyed being a part of that!

There are too many deserving people to adequately give credit where it is due, but I do want to note that our recent successes are the result of unprecedented community collaboration; selfless effort and investment from the local private sector; courageous &amp; steady leadership from City Commissioners; exceptional assistance from state &amp; federal elected officials; impressive amounts of effort &amp; leadership well beyond the norm by City staff and legal counsel; terrific leadership and foresight by our prior City Manager, Jason Gage; lots and lots of creativity; a deliberate &amp; persistent willingness to work outside of our comfort zones; and strategic risk taking all of which are extremely rare for a community.

I have never seen anything like it in my 36-year career! I have tried to convey to all of our City employees &amp; elected officials that public service is a very noble endeavor and each individual should take pride that they are community building to improve the lives of their friends, neighbors and families.

Over my career I have tried to adopt and foster an attitude that we should be flattered by extremely high expectations even when they come in the form of harsh criticism since it just serves to underscore how much is expected of us and how much we are entrusted to serve our community.

If you aren’t familiar with Theodore Roosevelt’s remarks referred to as the Man in the Arena, I encourage you to take a few minutes to find it on the internet and reflect on his wisdom from 114 years ago!

I am honored to have been in the arena with so many of you for the last 19 years!

And, I look forward to watching Salina continue on the upward trajectory that this community has built for itself!

Schrage’s last day will be Friday, February 7:

. The City Commission will consider appointment of an Interim City Manager as well as their next steps regarding the process to select and appoint the next City Manager in the very near future.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685990553365.png" alt="Salina City Commissioner Mike Schrage" />
 <figcaption>Salina City Commissioner Mike Schrage</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted by City of SalinaWith mixed emotions, Salina City Manager, Mike Schrage, submitted his resignation to the Salina City Commission at their December 23rd City Commission meeting informing them that the Warrensburg, Missouri City Council had appointed him their next city manager earlier that afternoon.Schrage addressed the City Commission at the end of their meeting expressing his love for the community, his respect and appreciation for the City staff and elected officials, his pride in being a part of the community’s significant progress &amp; successes and providing additional details about the reasons for his family’s decision to return to Missouri at this time.Additional Remarks from Salina City Manager, Mike Schrage:My family and I absolutely love Salina! I am thoroughly enjoying the work of being Salina‘s City Manager, now more than ever; and, I sincerely believe the City organization as well as the community as a whole are in the best shape they have been in decades, if not ever.&nbsp;But . . . It is time for me to begin drawing my pension in Kansas and return to Missouri. have accepted the city manager position in Warrensburg, Missouri. Consequently, INot only does it fit in to my family’s financial plans, but it creates an opportunity for my step-father to move in with us; we will be a 30 minute drive from my father-in-law whose health needs are significantly increasing; and, I am extremely excited about the professional opportunity that awaits me and the value that I believe I can add as Warrensburg’s next city manager.Hopefully, Warrensburg is the last stop in my city management career. I will consider myself blessed if I am lucky enough to be able to look back on my time in Warrensburg as fondly and proudly as Salina.The timing of this announcement was affected by Warrensburg’s selection process and timeline which has made it a little awkward around the holidays. My last day will be February 7, 2024.I will be coordinating with City staff to hand off projects &amp; responsibilities in the meantime.&nbsp;I believe there is undeniable consensus about how successful Salina has been as a community, lately; unprecedented excitement about the community momentum that has been built; and significant optimism about our future!I have certainly enjoyed being a part of that!There are too many deserving people to adequately give credit where it is due, but I do want to note that our recent successes are the result of unprecedented community collaboration; selfless effort and investment from the local private sector; courageous &amp; steady leadership from City Commissioners; exceptional assistance from state &amp; federal elected officials; impressive amounts of effort &amp; leadership well beyond the norm by City staff and legal counsel; terrific leadership and foresight by our prior City Manager, Jason Gage; lots and lots of creativity; a deliberate &amp; persistent willingness to work outside of our comfort zones; and strategic risk taking all of which are extremely rare for a community.I have never seen anything like it in my 36-year career! I have tried to convey to all of our City employees &amp; elected officials that public service is a very noble endeavor and each individual should take pride that they are community building to improve the lives of their friends, neighbors and families.Over my career I have tried to adopt and foster an attitude that we should be flattered by extremely high expectations even when they come in the form of harsh criticism since it just serves to underscore how much is expected of us and how much we are entrusted to serve our community.I wish each of you the best!If you aren’t familiar with Theodore Roosevelt’s remarks referred to as the Man in the Arena, I encourage you to take a few minutes to find it on the internet and reflect on his wisdom from 114 years ago!I am honored to have been in the arena with so many of you for the last 19 years!And, I look forward to watching Salina continue on the upward trajectory that this community has built for itself!Sincerely,Michael D. SchrageSchrage’s last day will be Friday, February 7:. The City Commission will consider appointment of an Interim City Manager as well as their next steps regarding the process to select and appoint the next City Manager in the very near future.

Salina City Manager announces resignation

Christmas mornings are filled with anticipation. Everyone looks forward to unwrapping presents.&nbsp;And in the spirit of giving, there are gifts for all.&nbsp;

Democracy confers gifts as well, offering nearly every voter something.&nbsp;As election day draws near, voters eagerly await results.&nbsp; They hope to see their favorite choices prevail.&nbsp;Many will not.&nbsp;But it’s likely that most voters will end up supporting at least one or more successful candidates. For example, voters that supported a&nbsp; losing presidential candidate can still find success with their House or Senate choices. Or a voter’s mayoral pick may lose but state House and school board selections win. 

Consider this year’s elections. Republicans scored several high profile victories: They took back the White House, the Senate, and secured a majority in House of Representatives.&nbsp;Trump’s popular vote percentage was the highest of his three campaigns and the first time in 20 years a Republican&nbsp;won&nbsp;the popular vote. And in a&nbsp;shift&nbsp;not seen since 1980, the Republican presidential candidate gained in every state – compared to the previous election.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Still, Democrats were not left empty-handed. They flipped several House seats in California and New York, cutting the Republican majority to its smallest size since the beginning of Great Depression. Moreover, in four swing states that Trump carried – Arizona, Michigan, Nevada and Wisconsin – the Senate Democrat won. Keeping these seats significantly reduces the chances of Republicans overcoming a Democrat filibuster.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Democrats also experienced several&nbsp;historic&nbsp;victories. Delaware’s Sarah McBride will be the first openly transgender member of the U.S. Congress; Andy Kim of New Jersey will be the first Korean Senator and Maryland’s Angela Alsobrooks and Delaware’s Lisa Blunt will be the first pair of Black women to sit in the Senate at the same time.&nbsp; Closer to home, Democrat Sharice Davids recorded yet another victory in the 3rd&nbsp;congressional district. This marks the fourth straight election where she comfortably beat the Republican opposition.

A majority of Johnson County voters again supported a Democrat for president;&nbsp; the second time in over 100 years. Riley, Shawnee, Douglas, and Wyandotte counties joined Johnson County in voting for Harris. In addition, Johnson County elected its first Democrat sheriff in nearly a century –&nbsp;Byron Roberson, strengthening the county’s identity as an emerging Democrat stronghold.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Not to be outdone, Kansas Republicans&nbsp;maintained&nbsp;their supermajorities in the House and Senate, prevailing in nearly&nbsp;all contests&nbsp;that were considered crucial to the power struggle in Topeka. And Republican Derek Schmidt defeated Democrat Nancy Boyda to represent the 2nd&nbsp;Congressional District, joining the state’s two other congressional Republican winners.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Most voters will thus be part of a winning coalition, whether it be for the office of president, state legislator, county clerk, city council, or the local water board. That matters.&nbsp;Research&nbsp;shows that when people vote for a winner, they are more satisfied with elections and more supportive of the way things work.&nbsp;

Elections are not zero-sum events.&nbsp;There’s an abundance available, though some voters will certainly win more than others.&nbsp; If you’re still feeling like you got a lump of coal, be patient –&nbsp; there’s an excellent chance that the next electoral cycle will make your wishes come true.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695215697316.png" alt="Submitted for Insight Kansas by Mark R. Joslyn, University of Kansas&nbsp;Department of Political Science" />
 <figcaption>Submitted for Insight Kansas by Mark R. Joslyn, University of Kansas&nbsp;Department of Political Science</figcaption>
 </figure>Christmas mornings are filled with anticipation. Everyone looks forward to unwrapping presents.&nbsp;And in the spirit of giving, there are gifts for all.&nbsp;Democracy confers gifts as well, offering nearly every voter something.&nbsp;As election day draws near, voters eagerly await results.&nbsp; They hope to see their favorite choices prevail.&nbsp;Many will not.&nbsp;But it’s likely that most voters will end up supporting at least one or more successful candidates. For example, voters that supported a&nbsp; losing presidential candidate can still find success with their House or Senate choices. Or a voter’s mayoral pick may lose but state House and school board selections win. Consider this year’s elections. Republicans scored several high profile victories: They took back the White House, the Senate, and secured a majority in House of Representatives.&nbsp;Trump’s popular vote percentage was the highest of his three campaigns and the first time in 20 years a Republican&nbsp;won&nbsp;the popular vote. And in a&nbsp;shift&nbsp;not seen since 1980, the Republican presidential candidate gained in every state – compared to the previous election.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Still, Democrats were not left empty-handed. They flipped several House seats in California and New York, cutting the Republican majority to its smallest size since the beginning of Great Depression. Moreover, in four swing states that Trump carried – Arizona, Michigan, Nevada and Wisconsin – the Senate Democrat won. Keeping these seats significantly reduces the chances of Republicans overcoming a Democrat filibuster.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Democrats also experienced several&nbsp;historic&nbsp;victories. Delaware’s Sarah McBride will be the first openly transgender member of the U.S. Congress; Andy Kim of New Jersey will be the first Korean Senator and Maryland’s Angela Alsobrooks and Delaware’s Lisa Blunt will be the first pair of Black women to sit in the Senate at the same time.&nbsp; Closer to home, Democrat Sharice Davids recorded yet another victory in the 3rd&nbsp;congressional district. This marks the fourth straight election where she comfortably beat the Republican opposition.A majority of Johnson County voters again supported a Democrat for president;&nbsp; the second time in over 100 years. Riley, Shawnee, Douglas, and Wyandotte counties joined Johnson County in voting for Harris. In addition, Johnson County elected its first Democrat sheriff in nearly a century –&nbsp;Byron Roberson, strengthening the county’s identity as an emerging Democrat stronghold.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Not to be outdone, Kansas Republicans&nbsp;maintained&nbsp;their supermajorities in the House and Senate, prevailing in nearly&nbsp;all contests&nbsp;that were considered crucial to the power struggle in Topeka. And Republican Derek Schmidt defeated Democrat Nancy Boyda to represent the 2nd&nbsp;Congressional District, joining the state’s two other congressional Republican winners.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Most voters will thus be part of a winning coalition, whether it be for the office of president, state legislator, county clerk, city council, or the local water board. That matters.&nbsp;Research&nbsp;shows that when people vote for a winner, they are more satisfied with elections and more supportive of the way things work.&nbsp;Elections are not zero-sum events.&nbsp;There’s an abundance available, though some voters will certainly win more than others.&nbsp; If you’re still feeling like you got a lump of coal, be patient –&nbsp; there’s an excellent chance that the next electoral cycle will make your wishes come true.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Insight Kansas: Unwrapping the electoral season

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King sits down with Justin Martin, one of 12 Santas participating in the 26th annual Georgetown Santas event in Salina. From humble beginnings with a single Santa and leftover Halloween candy to a full-scale Christmas drive-through experience, the Georgetown Santas have become a cherished tradition for locals and visitors alike.

Click the play button above to watch Georgetown Road transform into a winter wonderland.&nbsp;

Justin shares heartwarming stories of spreading joy to all ages, the evolution of the iconic Santa shacks, and the logistics behind serving thousands of bags of popcorn in just three nights. Discover how this community-driven event continues to grow, fueled by the magic of Christmas and the generosity of Salina’s residents.

Learn more or donate at <a href="https://GeorgetownSantas.com">GeorgetownSantas.com</a>.

Follow the Georgetown Santas on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/georgetownsantas">Facebook.</a>

<div><iframe title="Justin Martin, Salina's Georgetown Santas" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=bhkzd-175f0bf-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By SALINA POST<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735159218573.jpeg" alt="The Santa Shack was popping with popcorn at the 2024 Georgetown Santas event. Photo by Bryan Dennett" />
 <figcaption>The Santa Shack was popping with popcorn at the 2024 Georgetown Santas event. Photo by Bryan Dennett</figcaption>
 </figure>In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King sits down with Justin Martin, one of 12 Santas participating in the 26th annual Georgetown Santas event in Salina. From humble beginnings with a single Santa and leftover Halloween candy to a full-scale Christmas drive-through experience, the Georgetown Santas have become a cherished tradition for locals and visitors alike.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735159284021.jpeg" alt="A total of 12 Santas from Georgetown Road in Salina Kansas greeted drivers as they made their way down the street last weekend. Visitors were greeted with Christmas music, popcorn, and candy. Photo by Bryan Dennett" />
 <figcaption>A total of 12 Santas from Georgetown Road in Salina Kansas greeted drivers as they made their way down the street last weekend. Visitors were greeted with Christmas music, popcorn, and candy. Photo by Bryan Dennett</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgeorgetownsantas%2Fvideos%2F1493997224615594%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Click the play button above to watch Georgetown Road transform into a winter wonderland.&nbsp;Justin shares heartwarming stories of spreading joy to all ages, the evolution of the iconic Santa shacks, and the logistics behind serving thousands of bags of popcorn in just three nights. Discover how this community-driven event continues to grow, fueled by the magic of Christmas and the generosity of Salina’s residents.Learn more or donate at <a href="https://GeorgetownSantas.com">GeorgetownSantas.com</a>.Follow the Georgetown Santas on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/georgetownsantas">Facebook.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733417405151.jpeg" alt="Hayes, Lindsey, Harrison, and Justin Martin" />
 <figcaption>Hayes, Lindsey, Harrison, and Justin Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>

2024 Salina Georgetown Santas 

As the holiday season winds down, many households face the question: what to do with the Christmas tree and holiday greenery? Instead of sending them to the landfill, consider recycling them! Repurposing your tree and greenery is an eco-friendly way to give them a second life while benefiting your garden, wildlife, or community.

Here are some practical and creative ways to recycle your Christmas tree and greenery:

1. Turn It in to Mulch Most natural Christmas trees can be chipped into mulch, which is excellent for garden beds and pathways. If you have access to a chipper, you can do this yourself. Otherwise, check with your local recycling center or municipal services—many communities offer free tree chipping programs.

2. Create Habitat for Wildlife Place your tree in your yard or garden to create shelter for birds and small animals during the winter months. You can even decorate it with birdseed ornaments, suet, or peanut butter-coated pinecones to provide food for wildlife.

3. Compost the Greenery Cut branches and greenery can be added to your compost pile or used as a base layer. The needles are rich in carbon and can help balance the compost's nitrogen content. Keep in mind that large branches should be trimmed down for easier decomposition.

4. Protect Your Plants Lay trimmed branches over perennial beds to help insulate them during the cold months. The branches can act as a natural mulch, protecting plants from harsh winter temperatures.

5. Check Local Recycling Programs Many communities have specific programs for tree and greenery recycling. Some cities collect trees curbside for recycling into mulch or erosion control products. Contact your local solid waste department or extension office for details.

6. Use It for Erosion Control In some areas, recycled Christmas trees are used for erosion control in wetlands or along riverbanks. These trees help stabilize soil and provide a natural barrier against erosion.

Don’t Burn It Indoors: Dry trees are highly flammable and can create a fire hazard. They also produce creosote, which can build up in your chimney.

Remove All Decorations: Before recycling, ensure all ornaments, tinsel, and lights are removed to prevent contamination.

Avoid Artificial Trees: Artificial trees cannot be recycled and should be reused or donated if in good condition.

Recycling your tree or greenery is a simple step that can have a big impact on the environment. By giving your holiday decorations a sustainable farewell, you can enjoy the spirit of the season while also taking care of our planet.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734975524540.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As the holiday season winds down, many households face the question: what to do with the Christmas tree and holiday greenery? Instead of sending them to the landfill, consider recycling them! Repurposing your tree and greenery is an eco-friendly way to give them a second life while benefiting your garden, wildlife, or community.Here are some practical and creative ways to recycle your Christmas tree and greenery:1. Turn It in to Mulch Most natural Christmas trees can be chipped into mulch, which is excellent for garden beds and pathways. If you have access to a chipper, you can do this yourself. Otherwise, check with your local recycling center or municipal services—many communities offer free tree chipping programs.2. Create Habitat for Wildlife Place your tree in your yard or garden to create shelter for birds and small animals during the winter months. You can even decorate it with birdseed ornaments, suet, or peanut butter-coated pinecones to provide food for wildlife.3. Compost the Greenery Cut branches and greenery can be added to your compost pile or used as a base layer. The needles are rich in carbon and can help balance the compost's nitrogen content. Keep in mind that large branches should be trimmed down for easier decomposition.4. Protect Your Plants Lay trimmed branches over perennial beds to help insulate them during the cold months. The branches can act as a natural mulch, protecting plants from harsh winter temperatures.5. Check Local Recycling Programs Many communities have specific programs for tree and greenery recycling. Some cities collect trees curbside for recycling into mulch or erosion control products. Contact your local solid waste department or extension office for details.6. Use It for Erosion Control In some areas, recycled Christmas trees are used for erosion control in wetlands or along riverbanks. These trees help stabilize soil and provide a natural barrier against erosion.Avoid These MistakesDon’t Burn It Indoors: Dry trees are highly flammable and can create a fire hazard. They also produce creosote, which can build up in your chimney.Remove All Decorations: Before recycling, ensure all ornaments, tinsel, and lights are removed to prevent contamination.Avoid Artificial Trees: Artificial trees cannot be recycled and should be reused or donated if in good condition.Recycling your tree or greenery is a simple step that can have a big impact on the environment. By giving your holiday decorations a sustainable farewell, you can enjoy the spirit of the season while also taking care of our planet.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

How to recycle your Christmas tree, holiday greenery

SALINE COUNTY—Police are captured a wanted who ran and hid in a horse barn in an attempt to avoid going to jail.

Just after noon Sunday, police observed a Cadillac Deville in the 1900 Block of 9th Street in Salina driven by 19-year-old Tevin Schimmel, according to a media release.

The car made abrupt movements and turns before pulling into the Pilot parking lot.&nbsp; Schimmel exited the vehicle and was identified by the officer, who was aware of his active warrants for probation violation and interference with law enforcement.

Schimmel ran into the business, with the officer following employees inside. The officer observed Schimmel running through the store and out the back.

Additional officers arrived and began searching the area, with Schimmel eventually running into a wooded area. Police established a perimeter and officers were assisted by the Kansas Highway Patrol.

A nearby resident in the 1700 block of North fifth contacted officers, believing someone had entered the resident's detached horse barn.The door of the barn was slightly ajar, and officers and troopers heard movement inside.

Announcements were made for Schimmel to come out, and officers entered the barn where they found the suspect was hiding under insulation in the barn and he was taken into custody.

He is in jail on requested charges of felony interference&nbsp; and burglary.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734957782931.png" alt=" Schimmel, Tevin Lawrence" />
 <figcaption> Schimmel, Tevin Lawrence</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY—Police are captured a wanted who ran and hid in a horse barn in an attempt to avoid going to jail.Just after noon Sunday, police observed a Cadillac Deville in the 1900 Block of 9th Street in Salina driven by 19-year-old Tevin Schimmel, according to a media release.The car made abrupt movements and turns before pulling into the Pilot parking lot.&nbsp; Schimmel exited the vehicle and was identified by the officer, who was aware of his active warrants for probation violation and interference with law enforcement.Schimmel ran into the business, with the officer following employees inside. The officer observed Schimmel running through the store and out the back.Additional officers arrived and began searching the area, with Schimmel eventually running into a wooded area. Police established a perimeter and officers were assisted by the Kansas Highway Patrol.A nearby resident in the 1700 block of North fifth contacted officers, believing someone had entered the resident's detached horse barn.The door of the barn was slightly ajar, and officers and troopers heard movement inside.Announcements were made for Schimmel to come out, and officers entered the barn where they found the suspect was hiding under insulation in the barn and he was taken into custody.He is in jail on requested charges of felony interference&nbsp; and burglary.

Police: Wanted suspect found hiding in a horse barn

SALINE COUNTY—Police in Salina are investigating an allege aggravated battery. We arrested a Julio Trejo-Anchondo. 

Just before 7p.m. December 19, police investigated 30-year-old&nbsp; Julio Trejo-Anchondo in the&nbsp;the 1100 block of West Republic in Salina who was trying to discipline a seven year old child when he struck them in the head, according to a media release.

The child hit their head on a table, causing a slight gash. Trejo-Anchondo did not immediately take the child to receive medical treatment&nbsp; The next day, another family member took the child to Salina Regional Health Center for treatment and including some stitches.

On Dec. 20, police arrested Trejo-Anchondo on requested charges of aggravated battery and endangerment of the child, for not getting medical treatment. He was booked into the Saline county jail.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734875557567.png" alt="Trejo-Anchondo photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Trejo-Anchondo photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY—Police in Salina are investigating an allege aggravated battery. We arrested a Julio Trejo-Anchondo. Just before 7p.m. December 19, police investigated 30-year-old&nbsp; Julio Trejo-Anchondo in the&nbsp;the 1100 block of West Republic in Salina who was trying to discipline a seven year old child when he struck them in the head, according to a media release.The child hit their head on a table, causing a slight gash. Trejo-Anchondo did not immediately take the child to receive medical treatment&nbsp; The next day, another family member took the child to Salina Regional Health Center for treatment and including some stitches.On Dec. 20, police arrested Trejo-Anchondo on requested charges of aggravated battery and endangerment of the child, for not getting medical treatment. He was booked into the Saline county jail.&nbsp;

Man accused of battery involving injury to a child

In this&nbsp;King in the Community episode, host Nate King interviews April Saskowski and Angie Andrewson from the Building Blocks Learning Center at Trinity United Methodist Church in Salina.

April shares the story of founding the preschool 13 years ago and how it has grown into a program that now includes childcare services. Angie discusses her experiences as a teacher and how her background in early childhood education helps her provide a nurturing and engaging environment for young learners.

For parents looking for a preschool or childcare program, this episode offers an inside look at how Building Blocks Learning Center, 901 East Neal Avenue, Salina,&nbsp;is helping children thrive. To learn more, visit their website at&nbsp;<a href="https://preschool.triumc.org/" target="_blank">https://preschool.triumc.org/</a>&nbsp;for&nbsp;enrollment details.

<div><iframe title="April Saskowski and Angie Andrewson, Building Blocks Learning Center" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=zmjxp-1748541-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By SALINA POSTIn this&nbsp;King in the Community episode, host Nate King interviews April Saskowski and Angie Andrewson from the Building Blocks Learning Center at Trinity United Methodist Church in Salina.April shares the story of founding the preschool 13 years ago and how it has grown into a program that now includes childcare services. Angie discusses her experiences as a teacher and how her background in early childhood education helps her provide a nurturing and engaging environment for young learners.For parents looking for a preschool or childcare program, this episode offers an inside look at how Building Blocks Learning Center, 901 East Neal Avenue, Salina,&nbsp;is helping children thrive. To learn more, visit their website at&nbsp;<a href="https://preschool.triumc.org/" target="_blank">https://preschool.triumc.org/</a>&nbsp;for&nbsp;enrollment details.

🎙King in the Community — April Saskowski and Angie Andrewson, Building Blocks Learning Center

Salina 911 has expanded its use of the Priority Dispatch System™ (PDS™) to include Police and Fire protocols, enhancing emergency response for residents of Saline County and the City of Salina. The system, which has been in place for medical emergencies for over thirty years, brings structured, research-based processes to police and fire dispatching.

Under this system, dispatchers follow nationally recognized standards and protocols to identify life-threatening situations, prioritize calls, and send the appropriate resources. The system guides dispatchers through structured questions, ensuring accurate identification of emergencies and enabling them to provide lifesaving instructions—such as CPR guidance or childbirth assistance—while responders are on the way.

"These protocols also help emergency personnel by delivering accurate information to improve on-scene care," said Wayne Pruitt, Director of Salina 911 Emergency Communications. "For example, Salina 911 has used the Medical Priority Dispatch Protocols (MPDS™) for decades, allowing dispatchers to assist with CPR and other immediate needs over the phone. Expanding this system to police and fire dispatching ensures a consistent and effective approach across all emergencies."

The Priority Dispatch System™ includes ProQA® software, a three-day certification course, and ongoing quality improvement measures. Dispatchers are certified by the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch® (IAED™), with recertification every two years and 24 hours of continuing dispatch education (CDE).

“This system increases safety and effectiveness for the first responders and creates better outcomes for callers,” said Dr. Jeff Clawson, Chair of the Rules Committee for the IAED Medical Council of Standards.

The system especially benefits new dispatchers, providing them with confidence and clear, incident-driven guidance based on the caller's reports. Using structured protocols also reduces liability by ensuring that responses are aligned with the situation at hand.

Salina 911 integrates proactive quality improvement benchmarks to evaluate dispatch performance and adjust training and staffing as needed. These measures ensure that the community continues to receive the highest standard of care and that emergency response remains efficient and accurate.

With Salina 911’s implementation of the expanded system, residents can trust that their emergencies will be handled by highly trained professionals with advanced tools and protocols.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734553537634.png" alt="Salina 911.png" />
 <figcaption>Salina 911.png</figcaption>
 </figure>Saline CountySalina 911 has expanded its use of the Priority Dispatch System™ (PDS™) to include Police and Fire protocols, enhancing emergency response for residents of Saline County and the City of Salina. The system, which has been in place for medical emergencies for over thirty years, brings structured, research-based processes to police and fire dispatching.Under this system, dispatchers follow nationally recognized standards and protocols to identify life-threatening situations, prioritize calls, and send the appropriate resources. The system guides dispatchers through structured questions, ensuring accurate identification of emergencies and enabling them to provide lifesaving instructions—such as CPR guidance or childbirth assistance—while responders are on the way."These protocols also help emergency personnel by delivering accurate information to improve on-scene care," said Wayne Pruitt, Director of Salina 911 Emergency Communications. "For example, Salina 911 has used the Medical Priority Dispatch Protocols (MPDS™) for decades, allowing dispatchers to assist with CPR and other immediate needs over the phone. Expanding this system to police and fire dispatching ensures a consistent and effective approach across all emergencies."The Priority Dispatch System™ includes ProQA® software, a three-day certification course, and ongoing quality improvement measures. Dispatchers are certified by the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch® (IAED™), with recertification every two years and 24 hours of continuing dispatch education (CDE).“This system increases safety and effectiveness for the first responders and creates better outcomes for callers,” said Dr. Jeff Clawson, Chair of the Rules Committee for the IAED Medical Council of Standards.The system especially benefits new dispatchers, providing them with confidence and clear, incident-driven guidance based on the caller's reports. Using structured protocols also reduces liability by ensuring that responses are aligned with the situation at hand.Salina 911 integrates proactive quality improvement benchmarks to evaluate dispatch performance and adjust training and staffing as needed. These measures ensure that the community continues to receive the highest standard of care and that emergency response remains efficient and accurate.With Salina 911’s implementation of the expanded system, residents can trust that their emergencies will be handled by highly trained professionals with advanced tools and protocols.

Salina 911 implements Priority Dispatch System for police and fire emergencies

We’re looking to hire some bright minds at two of our Kansas facilities!&nbsp;

Our Salina location is looking to fill a 1st shift opening for a Journeyman Electrician, and our Abilene facility will be a 2nd shift position, complete with a $2 shift differential. 

Apply online 24-7 at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.workforgpm.com/">www.WorkForGPM.com</a>!

Great Plains Mfg.-“Setting the pace through innovation.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732572434105.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>We’re looking to hire some bright minds at two of our Kansas facilities!&nbsp;Our Salina location is looking to fill a 1st shift opening for a Journeyman Electrician, and our Abilene facility will be a 2nd shift position, complete with a $2 shift differential. Apply online 24-7 at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.workforgpm.com/">www.WorkForGPM.com</a>!Great Plains Mfg.-“Setting the pace through innovation.”

Record numbers of travelers for holidays

By HAROLD COURTOIS Hospital Administrator, Memorial Health System

For over 30 years, the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program has enabled millions of Americans, including our patients in Abilene, to access essential healthcare. This program allows hospitals and clinics to purchase medications at a discount, ensuring that vulnerable populations—including seniors on fixed incomes and low-income families—can access vital services like chemotherapy, diabetes care, and behavioral health.

Unfortunately, pharmaceutical companies are increasingly undermining the 340B Program to boost profits, prioritizing investors over patients. In 2022 alone, Kansas 340B hospitals faced a combined net revenue loss of $18.2 million, while the top eight drug companies earned $99.4 billion.

Without 340B, Kansans would face higher costs, reduced access to care, and poorer health outcomes, especially in rural areas. The program’s savings support community health, keeping hospitals open and services available.

While recent legislative efforts have helped, there’s still work to do. I urge Kansans to contact their elected officials and advocate for preserving 340B. Together, we can protect this vital program and ensure accessible healthcare for all Kansans.

Harold Courtois is the Hospital Administrator of Memorial Health System (MHS) in Abilene, KS. MHS is an affiliate of Salina Regional Health Center along with the hospitals in Lindsborg and Concordia. Salina Regional Health Center is not a 340B hospital, but advocates for this essential program for its affiliated critical access hospitals as well as other rural hospitals in Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By HAROLD COURTOIS Hospital Administrator, Memorial Health SystemFor over 30 years, the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program has enabled millions of Americans, including our patients in Abilene, to access essential healthcare. This program allows hospitals and clinics to purchase medications at a discount, ensuring that vulnerable populations—including seniors on fixed incomes and low-income families—can access vital services like chemotherapy, diabetes care, and behavioral health.Unfortunately, pharmaceutical companies are increasingly undermining the 340B Program to boost profits, prioritizing investors over patients. In 2022 alone, Kansas 340B hospitals faced a combined net revenue loss of $18.2 million, while the top eight drug companies earned $99.4 billion.Without 340B, Kansans would face higher costs, reduced access to care, and poorer health outcomes, especially in rural areas. The program’s savings support community health, keeping hospitals open and services available.While recent legislative efforts have helped, there’s still work to do. I urge Kansans to contact their elected officials and advocate for preserving 340B. Together, we can protect this vital program and ensure accessible healthcare for all Kansans.Harold Courtois is the Hospital Administrator of Memorial Health System (MHS) in Abilene, KS. MHS is an affiliate of Salina Regional Health Center along with the hospitals in Lindsborg and Concordia. Salina Regional Health Center is not a 340B hospital, but advocates for this essential program for its affiliated critical access hospitals as well as other rural hospitals in Kansas.

OPINION: 340B Program protects access to much-needed health care

The Kansas Department of Agriculture and K-State Research and Extension (KSRE) will offer six regional Local Food Producer Workshops to assist farmers’ market vendors and managers, and for those wanting to sell food products directly to consumers,&nbsp;according to a media release from the agency.

Kansas farmers’ markets not only provide a fresh food source, but also stimulate the local economy. In 2024, more than 100 farmers’ markets were registered with KDA’s Central Registration of Farmers’ Markets.

“We strive to provide education to Kansas farmers’ markets and agricultural businesses to help them thrive,” said Sammy Gleason, KDA’s&nbsp;From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;manager. “These workshops will support local businesses by providing up-to-date food safety information and new marketing insights for direct consumers.”

Workshop topics will vary slightly by location. Highlighted topics include:

KDA’s weights and measures program will also offer free scale certification at the workshops for attendees.

Dates and locations for the Local Food Producer Workshops are as follows:

Friday, January 31&nbsp;—&nbsp;Manhattan:&nbsp;Pottorf Hall, Riley County Fairgrounds

Saturday, February 1&nbsp;— Wichita:&nbsp;Sedgwick County Extension Education Center

Friday, February 7&nbsp;— Olathe:&nbsp;K-State Olathe

Friday, February 21&nbsp;— Chanute:&nbsp;Neosho County Community College

Friday, February 28&nbsp;— Hays:&nbsp;K-State Agricultural Research Center

Friday, March 28&nbsp;— Garden City:&nbsp;Southwest Research–Extension Center

Registration for the workshops is now open and is $25 per participant. Registration and more information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fromthelandofkansas.com/FMworkshop">FromtheLandofKansas.com/FMworkshop</a>, at K-State Research and Extension,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/?splash=http%3a%2f%2fwww.ksre-learn.com%2ffood-producer-workshops&amp;____isexternal=true">ksre-learn.com/food-producer-workshops</a>, or at local extension offices.

For more information, contact Robin Dolby, KDA’s&nbsp;From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;marketing coordinator, at 785-564-6756 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov">fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov</a>. The workshops are funded by the Kansas Center for Sustainable Agriculture and Alternative Crops, Kansas Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program, and sponsored by KSRE and KDA.

KDA is committed to providing an environment that enhances and encourages economic growth of the agriculture industry and the Kansas economy. The Kansas Ag Growth Strategy has identified training for small companies via workshops as a key growth outcome for the specialty crop sector. The Local Food Producer Workshops will provide education through partnerships to help make Kansas farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses more successful.

The Kansas Department of Agriculture and K-State Research and Extension (KSRE) will offer six regional Local Food Producer Workshops to assist farmers’ market vendors and managers, and for those wanting to sell food products directly to consumers,&nbsp;according to a media release from the agency.Kansas farmers’ markets not only provide a fresh food source, but also stimulate the local economy. In 2024, more than 100 farmers’ markets were registered with KDA’s Central Registration of Farmers’ Markets.“We strive to provide education to Kansas farmers’ markets and agricultural businesses to help them thrive,” said Sammy Gleason, KDA’s&nbsp;From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;manager. “These workshops will support local businesses by providing up-to-date food safety information and new marketing insights for direct consumers.”Workshop topics will vary slightly by location. Highlighted topics include:<ul>
 <li>Marketing</li><li>Food Safety</li><li>Regulations on Selling Meat, Eggs and Poultry</li><li>Sales Tax for Vendors</li><li>Kansas Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Training</li>
 </ul>KDA’s weights and measures program will also offer free scale certification at the workshops for attendees.Dates and locations for the Local Food Producer Workshops are as follows:Friday, January 31&nbsp;—&nbsp;Manhattan:&nbsp;Pottorf Hall, Riley County FairgroundsSaturday, February 1&nbsp;— Wichita:&nbsp;Sedgwick County Extension Education CenterFriday, February 7&nbsp;— Olathe:&nbsp;K-State OlatheFriday, February 21&nbsp;— Chanute:&nbsp;Neosho County Community CollegeFriday, February 28&nbsp;— Hays:&nbsp;K-State Agricultural Research CenterFriday, March 28&nbsp;— Garden City:&nbsp;Southwest Research–Extension CenterRegistration for the workshops is now open and is $25 per participant. Registration and more information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fromthelandofkansas.com/FMworkshop">FromtheLandofKansas.com/FMworkshop</a>, at K-State Research and Extension,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/?splash=http%3a%2f%2fwww.ksre-learn.com%2ffood-producer-workshops&amp;____isexternal=true">ksre-learn.com/food-producer-workshops</a>, or at local extension offices.For more information, contact Robin Dolby, KDA’s&nbsp;From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;marketing coordinator, at 785-564-6756 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov">fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov</a>. The workshops are funded by the Kansas Center for Sustainable Agriculture and Alternative Crops, Kansas Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program, and sponsored by KSRE and KDA.KDA is committed to providing an environment that enhances and encourages economic growth of the agriculture industry and the Kansas economy. The Kansas Ag Growth Strategy has identified training for small companies via workshops as a key growth outcome for the specialty crop sector. The Local Food Producer Workshops will provide education through partnerships to help make Kansas farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses more successful.

Farmers Market and Local Food Producer Workshops

By MICHAEL A. SMITH Insight Kansas

ibertarianism&nbsp;is a political ideology– a belief system–that contrasts sharply with both liberal and conservative.&nbsp; It is also America’s third largest political party:&nbsp; the only one besides Democrats and Republicans that is officially recognized by the State of Kansas. Once described by a friend of mine as “pro choice on everything,” libertarianism calls for the drastic reduction of government intervention in virtually every aspect of life.&nbsp; Libertarians would keep abortion legal but not give government funding for it–or for much of anything else.&nbsp; They would do away with government-issued marriage licenses, arguing that marriage is a private transaction.&nbsp; There would be no income tax, Social Security, Medicare, or public schools, and U.S. troops stationed overseas would come home.&nbsp; Under libertarianism, individualism is king, and we are all pretty much on our own.&nbsp; Those interested in learning more should check out the outspoken&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHl2PqwRcY0">novelist Ayn Rand</a>.&nbsp; Wichita industrialist Charles Koch is another well-known libertarian.

When I say that America is about to enter a libertarian moment, I do not mean that President-elect Trump is a libertarian– far from it.&nbsp; From tariffs on imported goods, to enabling states to criminalize abortion, to anti-immigration policies, Trump advocates much that is sharply at odds with libertarian principles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Instead, what I am suggesting is that Trump 2.0 is likely to be so chaotic and fragmented that citizens will pretty much be out for ourselves when it comes to determining what is best– a libertarian moment.&nbsp; For example, if conspiracy theorist Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. is indeed confirmed as Secretary of Health and Human Services, Americans may essentially be on our own when it comes to getting vaccinated.&nbsp; Mountains of evidence showing the safety and effectiveness of vaccines notwithstanding, there may be a push to remove mandatory vaccinations for school enrollment, bringing back childhood disease epidemics including measles, mumps, and whooping cough.

With his pre- and post-election behavior, his cabinet nominations, and of course his first term as President, Trump appears to be embodying Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan’s famous quote, “when you elect people who have contempt for government, you get a contemptible government.”

For the next four years, we may not be able to count on the federal government for much of anything– and some states are not looking too good, either.

In this libertarian-by-chaos moment, an irony emerges: those who voted for Vice President Harris are best-equipped to weather it.&nbsp; For example, the COVID-19 vaccine is highly effective, and needs to be updated every year for new strains.&nbsp; A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.brookings.edu/articles/for-covid-19-vaccinations-party-affiliation-matters-more-than-race-and-ethnicity/">2021 Brookings study</a>&nbsp;found that early COVID vaccination rates were 90% for Democrats, 68% for Independents and 56% for Republicans. I got my booster in October.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700168795368.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHAEL A. SMITH Insight Kansasibertarianism&nbsp;is a political ideology– a belief system–that contrasts sharply with both liberal and conservative.&nbsp; It is also America’s third largest political party:&nbsp; the only one besides Democrats and Republicans that is officially recognized by the State of Kansas. Once described by a friend of mine as “pro choice on everything,” libertarianism calls for the drastic reduction of government intervention in virtually every aspect of life.&nbsp; Libertarians would keep abortion legal but not give government funding for it–or for much of anything else.&nbsp; They would do away with government-issued marriage licenses, arguing that marriage is a private transaction.&nbsp; There would be no income tax, Social Security, Medicare, or public schools, and U.S. troops stationed overseas would come home.&nbsp; Under libertarianism, individualism is king, and we are all pretty much on our own.&nbsp; Those interested in learning more should check out the outspoken&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHl2PqwRcY0">novelist Ayn Rand</a>.&nbsp; Wichita industrialist Charles Koch is another well-known libertarian.When I say that America is about to enter a libertarian moment, I do not mean that President-elect Trump is a libertarian– far from it.&nbsp; From tariffs on imported goods, to enabling states to criminalize abortion, to anti-immigration policies, Trump advocates much that is sharply at odds with libertarian principles.&nbsp;&nbsp;Instead, what I am suggesting is that Trump 2.0 is likely to be so chaotic and fragmented that citizens will pretty much be out for ourselves when it comes to determining what is best– a libertarian moment.&nbsp; For example, if conspiracy theorist Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. is indeed confirmed as Secretary of Health and Human Services, Americans may essentially be on our own when it comes to getting vaccinated.&nbsp; Mountains of evidence showing the safety and effectiveness of vaccines notwithstanding, there may be a push to remove mandatory vaccinations for school enrollment, bringing back childhood disease epidemics including measles, mumps, and whooping cough.With his pre- and post-election behavior, his cabinet nominations, and of course his first term as President, Trump appears to be embodying Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan’s famous quote, “when you elect people who have contempt for government, you get a contemptible government.”For the next four years, we may not be able to count on the federal government for much of anything– and some states are not looking too good, either.In this libertarian-by-chaos moment, an irony emerges: those who voted for Vice President Harris are best-equipped to weather it.&nbsp; For example, the COVID-19 vaccine is highly effective, and needs to be updated every year for new strains.&nbsp; A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.brookings.edu/articles/for-covid-19-vaccinations-party-affiliation-matters-more-than-race-and-ethnicity/">2021 Brookings study</a>&nbsp;found that early COVID vaccination rates were 90% for Democrats, 68% for Independents and 56% for Republicans. I got my booster in October.On other issues, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2017/06/22/the-demographics-of-gun-ownership/">Pew Research study</a>&nbsp;found that 41% of Republicans owned a gun, versus 16% of Democrats.&nbsp; Most of these are handguns. While many gun owners practice safe and responsible gun handling and storage, the fact remains that ready access to a handgun makes it&nbsp;<a href="https://med.stanford.edu/news/all-news/2020/06/handgun-ownership-associated-with-much-higher-suicide-risk.html">far more likely that a person will die of suicide</a>.&nbsp; In Kansas, guns are used in&nbsp;<a href="https://publichealth.jhu.edu/center-for-gun-violence-solutions/kansas">two and a half times</a>&nbsp;as many suicides as homicides.&nbsp;&nbsp;Democrats are also more likely to&nbsp;<a href="https://dlcc.org/press/washington-post-how-red-state-politics-are-shaving-years-off-american-lives/">support seat belt use and tobacco abatement</a>, and to&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39236212/#:~:text=Positive%20screen%20for%20depression%20did,in%20the%20past%2012%20months.">utilize mental health care</a>– all key factors in living a long and fulfilling life.The American people voted for this, so here it comes. When we’re each on our own, it will be those who voted against it who are best-equipped to survive and thrive.&nbsp;&nbsp;