BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/rmipro/">RACHEL MIPRO</a> Kansas Reflector

TOPEKA — As the dust settles on the legislative maneuvering of the chaotic 2024 session, disability rights advocates applaud a budget provision meant to shorten wait times for disabled Kansans who need services.

Lawmakers overrode Gov. Laura Kelly’s veto to implement a provision that puts caps on the wait times for Kansans who want to receive state-funded disability services. Included in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/ccrb_sb28_01_0000.pdf">state budget</a>, the provision would forbid the waiting lists from exceeding 6,800 people during the fiscal year that begins in July.&nbsp;

Rocky Nichols, executive director of the Disability Rights Center of Kansas, said the change is “incredibly positive.”

“It tells me the Legislature takes a waiting list seriously,” Nichols said. “This is going to have a huge impact. Hats off, and I really want to commend the Legislature for coming up with these provisos because it’s a very innovative way to ensure that you’re actually going to reduce the waiting list. You set a cap.”

The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kdads.ks.gov/docs/librariesprovider17/ltss/hcbs/waivers/participation-reports/2024/waiver-program-participation-report-4.15.24.pdf?sfvrsn=2e483674_3">latest data show</a>s&nbsp;7,698 Kansans currently waiting for services, with 5,342 people on the intellectual and developmental disabilities waitlist and 2,356 people on the physical disability waitlist.

The Legislature set aside $45.8 million, available for fiscal year 2025, to fund services for 1,000 Kansans who are currently on the state’s waiting lists, divided evenly between people with intellectual and physical disabilities and those who have physical disabilities.

If enrollment trends continue along the same lines as last year, when 561 new people enrolled in the intellectual disability waitlist, the proposed new funding would not be enough to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/03/15/state-budget-blueprint-leaves-out-kansans-who-need-state-disability-services/">lessen the waitlist on its own</a>.&nbsp;

During the veto override debate last week, Sen. Rick Billinger, a Goodland Republican, said lawmakers couldn’t “continue to kick this down the road.”

“Folks, we put $38 million into a soccer tournament,” Billinger said. “If we can’t put dollars in here for the IDD and the PD, we better refocus. And I believe that this is a step to try to get us to do better, because we must do better. We’re failing this community.”

The law requires KDADS by January to provide the Legislature with an estimate on the costs of keeping this cap in place. The Legislature will have to pass a supplemental funding bill to cover the costs of keeping the lists below the caps of 4,800 for the IDD waitlist and 2,000 for the PD waitlist.

The waitlists have been a long-intensifying problem. Kansans with intellectual or developmental disabilities are eligible for Medicaid-funded support waivers that cover a variety of needed services. People who want to receive this assistance are placed on a waiting list supervised by KDADS.

But wait times can last more than 10 years, and more and more Kansans have been added to the slow-moving lists. Kansas Reflector examined this issue last year in the series&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/10/18/a-lack-of-imagination-kansans-ask-lawmakers-to-stop-dithering-over-disability-supports/">“On the List</a>.”

“The veto override works to ensure 500 new Kansans with intellectual and developmental disabilities are eliminated from our historic, record-high IDD waitlist, and will start receiving essential HCBS waiver services,” said Sara Hart Weir, executive director of the Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities. “Moreover, this veto override caps the IDD waitlist in Kansas at 4,800, which is another long-term step toward eliminating our IDD waitlist in the Sunflower State.”

Kelly said she supported finding a solution to the wait times. But she vetoed the caps because of concerns about capacity if they were implemented.

“By instituting a cap on the number on the waitlists, the agency will be unable to maintain reserve capacity intended for specialty populations such as children coming into DCF custody, Home and Community Based Service,” Kelly said in a veto explanation. “… In addition, continually adding slots to these waivers haphazardly or thoughtlessly capping the waitlist number will not be sufficient or sustainable unless provider capacity is also addressed.”

The Senate voted 28-12 and the House 116-9 to override the governor’s veto.

“I’m not concerned about creating new problems. The problems continue to be there,” said Sen. Molly Baumgardner, R-Louisburg. “And they continue to be ignored by the agency. I support this veto override effort. And I urge the governor to have her secretary get the work done that needs to be done so that we as a legislature can clearly address the needs of the kids that are on the waitlist.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715030902596.jpeg" alt="Sen. Rick Billinger, a Goodland Republican, said the Legislature needed to work on more immediate solutions to the state's long wait times for disability services. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Rick Billinger, a Goodland Republican, said the Legislature needed to work on more immediate solutions to the state's long wait times for disability services. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/rmipro/">RACHEL MIPRO</a> Kansas ReflectorTOPEKA — As the dust settles on the legislative maneuvering of the chaotic 2024 session, disability rights advocates applaud a budget provision meant to shorten wait times for disabled Kansans who need services.Lawmakers overrode Gov. Laura Kelly’s veto to implement a provision that puts caps on the wait times for Kansans who want to receive state-funded disability services. Included in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/ccrb_sb28_01_0000.pdf">state budget</a>, the provision would forbid the waiting lists from exceeding 6,800 people during the fiscal year that begins in July.&nbsp;Rocky Nichols, executive director of the Disability Rights Center of Kansas, said the change is “incredibly positive.”“It tells me the Legislature takes a waiting list seriously,” Nichols said. “This is going to have a huge impact. Hats off, and I really want to commend the Legislature for coming up with these provisos because it’s a very innovative way to ensure that you’re actually going to reduce the waiting list. You set a cap.”The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kdads.ks.gov/docs/librariesprovider17/ltss/hcbs/waivers/participation-reports/2024/waiver-program-participation-report-4.15.24.pdf?sfvrsn=2e483674_3">latest data show</a>s&nbsp;7,698 Kansans currently waiting for services, with 5,342 people on the intellectual and developmental disabilities waitlist and 2,356 people on the physical disability waitlist.The Legislature set aside $45.8 million, available for fiscal year 2025, to fund services for 1,000 Kansans who are currently on the state’s waiting lists, divided evenly between people with intellectual and physical disabilities and those who have physical disabilities.If enrollment trends continue along the same lines as last year, when 561 new people enrolled in the intellectual disability waitlist, the proposed new funding would not be enough to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/03/15/state-budget-blueprint-leaves-out-kansans-who-need-state-disability-services/">lessen the waitlist on its own</a>.&nbsp;During the veto override debate last week, Sen. Rick Billinger, a Goodland Republican, said lawmakers couldn’t “continue to kick this down the road.”“Folks, we put $38 million into a soccer tournament,” Billinger said. “If we can’t put dollars in here for the IDD and the PD, we better refocus. And I believe that this is a step to try to get us to do better, because we must do better. We’re failing this community.”The law requires KDADS by January to provide the Legislature with an estimate on the costs of keeping this cap in place. The Legislature will have to pass a supplemental funding bill to cover the costs of keeping the lists below the caps of 4,800 for the IDD waitlist and 2,000 for the PD waitlist.The waitlists have been a long-intensifying problem. Kansans with intellectual or developmental disabilities are eligible for Medicaid-funded support waivers that cover a variety of needed services. People who want to receive this assistance are placed on a waiting list supervised by KDADS.But wait times can last more than 10 years, and more and more Kansans have been added to the slow-moving lists. Kansas Reflector examined this issue last year in the series&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/10/18/a-lack-of-imagination-kansans-ask-lawmakers-to-stop-dithering-over-disability-supports/">“On the List</a>.”“The veto override works to ensure 500 new Kansans with intellectual and developmental disabilities are eliminated from our historic, record-high IDD waitlist, and will start receiving essential HCBS waiver services,” said Sara Hart Weir, executive director of the Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities. “Moreover, this veto override caps the IDD waitlist in Kansas at 4,800, which is another long-term step toward eliminating our IDD waitlist in the Sunflower State.”Kelly said she supported finding a solution to the wait times. But she vetoed the caps because of concerns about capacity if they were implemented.“By instituting a cap on the number on the waitlists, the agency will be unable to maintain reserve capacity intended for specialty populations such as children coming into DCF custody, Home and Community Based Service,” Kelly said in a veto explanation. “… In addition, continually adding slots to these waivers haphazardly or thoughtlessly capping the waitlist number will not be sufficient or sustainable unless provider capacity is also addressed.”The Senate voted 28-12 and the House 116-9 to override the governor’s veto.“I’m not concerned about creating new problems. The problems continue to be there,” said Sen. Molly Baumgardner, R-Louisburg. “And they continue to be ignored by the agency. I support this veto override effort. And I urge the governor to have her secretary get the work done that needs to be done so that we as a legislature can clearly address the needs of the kids that are on the waitlist.”

‘Incredibly positive’: Disability advocates commend Kansas Republicans’ effort on waitlists

Check this post for weather updates throughout the day and tune in to <a href="http://910kina.com">910kina.com</a> for continuous coverage courtesy of Randy Picking

Email storm related photos to newstips@salinapost.com please include the location of where the photo was taken, and who took the photo.

This video was captured at about 6 p.m. on May 6, 2024, approximately half of a mile south of Assaria, Kansas. Video by Salina Post Lead Reporter, Olivia Bergmeier.

By SALINA POST A number of severe storms swept through our area last night. See below for all May 6, 2024 storm watches and warnings for our coverage area.

Severe thunderstorm warning in effect until 9:30 p.m.&nbsp;(EXPIRED)

A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 9:30 p.m. CDT FOR NORTH CENTRAL RILEY AND NORTHWESTERN POTTAWATOMIE COUNTIES.

At 9:00 p.m. CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near Tuttle Creek Lake, moving northeast at 45 mph.

THIS IS A DESTRUCTIVE STORM FOR northern Riley County and western Pottawatomie County.

HAZARD Baseball size hail and 60 mph wind gusts.

SOURCE Public. At 8:45 p.m., public reported 2 inch hail 1 mile southeast of Riley.

IMPACT People and animals outdoors will be severely injured. Expect shattered windows, extensive damage to roofs, siding, and vehicles.

Locations impacted include: Blaine, Olsburg, Randolph, and Tuttle Creek Lake

A Tornado Watch remains in effect until 11:00 p.m. CDT for northeastern

The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Northwestern Geary County in east central Kansas, West central Riley County in northeastern Kansas, West central Pottawatomie County in northeastern Kansas, Southeastern Clay County in north central Kansas until 9:00 p.m.(EXPIRED)

At 8:34 p.m. a severe thunderstorm was located near Milford,
 moving northeast at 40 mph. THIS IS A DESTRUCTIVE STORM FOR locations near Milford Lake and
central Riley counties.

HAZARD Softball size hail and 60 mph wind gusts.
 SOURCE Emergency management At 8:30 p.m., Emergency Management
 reported softball-sized hail near Upland.

IMPACT People and animals outdoors will be severely injured.
 Expect shattered windows, and extensive damage to roofs,
 siding, and vehicles.

* This severe thunderstorm will be near...
 Riley and Leonardville around 8:40 p.m. CDT

TORNADO WARNING ISSUED FOR NORTHEASTERN DICKINSON, GEARY and RILEY COUNTIES&nbsp;(EXPIRED)

The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a Tornado Warning for&nbsp; Northeastern Dickinson County in central Kansas, Northwestern Geary County in east central Kansas, Southwestern Riley County in northeastern Kansas, and Southeastern Clay County in north central Kansas until 8:45 p.m. CDT.

At 8:08 p.m. CDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado&nbsp;  was located near Moonlight, moving northeast at 45 mph.

HAZARD Tornado and half dollar size hail.

SOURCE Weather spotters reported a funnel cloud. At 8:06 p.m., trained spotters reported a funnel cloud 1 mile east of Abilene.

IMPACT Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without&nbsp; shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed.&nbsp; Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree&nbsp; damage is likely.

Locations impacted include: Junction City, Abilene, Chapman, Wakefield, Milford, Milford Lake, and Moonlight.

This includes Interstate 70 between mile markers 275 and 288.

TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest&nbsp;floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.

Tornado Warning Issued for Dickinson County&nbsp;(EXPIRED)

The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Warning for Northern Dickinson County effective until 815 p.m. CDT. At 7:47 p.m. CDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado
 was located 7 miles south of Solomon, moving northeast at 35 mph. HAZARD Tornado and ping pong ball size hail.
 SOURCE Radar indicated rotation. IMPACT Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without
 shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed.
 Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree
 damage is likely.

Locations impacted include Abilene, Enterprise, and Talmage.

This includes Interstate 70 between mile markers 268 and 283.
 PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS&nbsp;TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest
floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a
mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter
and protect yourself from flying debris.

According to the National Weather Service, the tornado warning issued for northern Dickinson County is canceled. A Severe Thunderstorm Warning issued May 6 at 7:01 p.m. CDT until May 6 at 7:30 p.m. CDT by NWS Topeka KS.

At 7:00 p.m. CDT, severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from 3 miles east of Talmage to near Enterprise to 3 miles west of Ramona, moving northeast at 55 mph.

HAZARD 60 mph wind gusts and half dollar size hail.

SOURCE Trained weather spotters. At 6:57 p.m. , a trained spotter reported wind gusts of 60 mph in Abilene.

IMPACT Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage to roofs, siding, and trees.

Locations impacted include: Junction City, Abilene, Herington, Grandview Plaza, Chapman,

Enterprise, White City, Hope, Woodbine, Latimer, and Moonlight.

A Tornado Watch remains in effect until 11:00 p.m. CDT for central Kansas.

Read below for additional May 6 weather updates

Tornado Warning Issued for Northern Dickinson County (EXPIRED)

The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a Tornado Warning for&nbsp;Northern Dickinson County in central Kansas until 7:15 p.m. CDT. At 6:44 p.m. CDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado
 was located 7 miles south of Solomon, moving northeast at 45 mph. HAZARD Tornado and quarter size hail.
 SOURCE Radar indicated rotation.

IMPACT Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without
 shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed.
 Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree
 damage is likely. Locations impacted include Abilene, Chapman, Solomon, Enterprise, Moonlight, and Talmage.

This includes Interstate 70 between mile markers 267 and 288. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS&nbsp;TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest
floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a
mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter
and protect yourself from flying debris.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Mcpherson, Western Dickinson and Southeastern Saline Counties in effect until 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;(EXPIRED)

A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 7:00 p.m. CDT
FOR MCPHERSON, WESTERN DICKINSON AND SOUTHEASTERN SALINE COUNTIES At 6:22 p.m. CDT, severe thunderstorms were located along a line
extending from near Assaria to near Lindsborg to near Mcpherson,
moving northeast at 50 mph.
 HAZARD 70 mph wind gusts and nickel size hail.
 SOURCE Radar indicated.
 IMPACT Expect considerable tree damage. Damage is likely to mobile
 homes, roofs, and outbuildings.
 Locations impacted include Mcpherson, Lindsborg, Galva, Canton, Marquette, Assaria, Gypsum,
Smolan, Falun, Bridgeport, Roxbury, Western Dickinson County in central Kansas and Kipp PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS A Tornado Watch remains in effect until 11:00 p.m. CDT for central
Kansas.

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a
building.&nbsp;

TORNADO WARNING ISSUED FOR PARTS OF WASHINGTON, CLAY AND CLOUD COUNTIES UNTIL 6:30 p.m. (NOW EXPIRED)

The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a Tornado Warning for Southwestern Washington County in north central Kansas, Northwestern Clay County in north central Kansas, Eastern Cloud County in north central Kansas Until 6:30 p.m. CDT.&nbsp;

At 5:58 p.m. CDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado
  was located 4 miles northeast of Miltonvale, moving northeast at 45
  mph.


HAZARD Tornado SOURCE Radar indicated rotation

IMPACT Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without
 shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed.
 Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree
 damage is likely. Locations impacted include Clyde, Clifton, Miltonvale, Morganville, Palmer, and Vining PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS: TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest
floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a
mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter
and protect yourself from flying debris.

Tornado Warning including Clyde KS, Clifton KS and  Miltonvale KS until 6:30 p.m. CDT

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING FOR OTTAWA COUNTY&nbsp;&nbsp;(EXPIRED)

Severe Thunderstorm Warning
National Weather Service Topeka KS

 The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Ottawa County in north central Kansas until 6:15 p.m. CDT.

At 5:50 p.m. CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 5 miles south of
  Tescott, moving northeast at 50 mph.

&nbsp;HAZARD 60 mph wind gusts and quarter-size hail.
 SOURCE Radar indicated. IMPACT Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage
 to roofs, siding, and trees. Locations impacted include Minneapolis, Bennington, Tescott, Culver, and Wells. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a
building.

A Tornado Watch remains in effect until 11:00 p.m. CDT for central and
north central Kansas.&nbsp;

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING FOR MCPHERSON, RENO, RICE&nbsp;(EXPIRED)

Severe Thunderstorm Warning National Weather Service Wichita KS

The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Southwestern McPherson County in central Kansas, North central Reno County in south-central Kansas, and Southeastern Rice County in central Kansas until 6:30 p.m. CDT.

At 5:24 p.m.&nbsp; CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 7 miles southwest of Sterling, moving northeast at 50 mph.

HAZARD 70 mph wind gusts and ping pong ball size hail.

IMPACT People and animals outdoors will be injured. Expect hail damage to roofs, siding, windows, and vehicles. Expect considerable tree damage. Wind damage is also likely to mobile homes, roofs, and outbuildings.

Locations impacted include Mcpherson, Lyons, Sterling, Inman, Nickerson, Little River, Alden, Windom, Willowbrook, and Mcpherson Airport.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building.

A Tornado Watch remains in effect until 7:00 p.m. CDT for central Kansas. A Tornado Watch also remains in effect until 1100 p.m. CDT for central and south central Kansas.

UPDATED — Severe Thunderstorm updates, May 6

Submitted Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/">College of Education</a>&nbsp;is recognizing graduate and undergraduate student award winners who excelled in and out of the classroom. Debbie Mercer, interim provost&nbsp;and executive vice president&nbsp;and dean of K-State's College of Education, announced the spring 2024 student award winners.The Outstanding Future Teacher Award recognizes two outstanding future teachers who demonstrate excellence during their professional clinical experiences, as supported and documented by their cooperating teachers, university supervisors and clinical instructors. The exemplary&nbsp;senior&nbsp;students are Jordyn Messenger, elementary education,&nbsp;Overland Park, and Paige Albert, secondary&nbsp;chemistry&nbsp;education,&nbsp;Wichita. The Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award recognizes students whose scholarship and leadership left an indelible mark through their college, campus and community activities.&nbsp; The&nbsp;senior award recipients&nbsp;are Elle Eilert, secondary mathematics education,&nbsp;Beloit; Malia Haught, elementary education,&nbsp;Goddard; Audrey Birkenbaugh, secondary mathematics education,&nbsp;Kingman; Elyse Ramsey, elementary education,&nbsp;Salina; and Mia Wells, educational studies,&nbsp;Elburn, Illinois.

The Outstanding Graduate Student in Education Award recognizes a doctoral student for excellence in scholarship and outstanding service. This year's recipient is Tracey Conway, curriculum and instruction,&nbsp;Manhattan.&nbsp; The Outstanding Graduate Student Teaching Award recognizes a College of Education graduate student with teaching responsibilities at K-State during the academic year in which the award is presented. The successful candidate must demonstrate highly effective teaching. This year's recipient is Chanh Bao Lam, doctoral student in curriculum and instruction,&nbsp;Tuy Hoa,&nbsp;Vietnam.

The Social Justice Advocacy Award recognizes leadership that promotes positive interactions and a commitment to the inclusion of persons of marginalized groups within the university or their home communities. Winners must also demonstrate an understanding and appreciation for differences among people and the ability to interact with people from diverse backgrounds, advocating for the fair and equitable treatment of all students. This year's recipient is Ernestina Wiafe, doctoral student in curriculum and instruction,&nbsp;Suhum, Ghana.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644928482119.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/">College of Education</a>&nbsp;is recognizing graduate and undergraduate student award winners who excelled in and out of the classroom. Debbie Mercer, interim provost&nbsp;and executive vice president&nbsp;and dean of K-State's College of Education, announced the spring 2024 student award winners.The Outstanding Future Teacher Award recognizes two outstanding future teachers who demonstrate excellence during their professional clinical experiences, as supported and documented by their cooperating teachers, university supervisors and clinical instructors. The exemplary&nbsp;senior&nbsp;students are Jordyn Messenger, elementary education,&nbsp;Overland Park, and Paige Albert, secondary&nbsp;chemistry&nbsp;education,&nbsp;Wichita. The Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award recognizes students whose scholarship and leadership left an indelible mark through their college, campus and community activities.&nbsp; The&nbsp;senior award recipients&nbsp;are Elle Eilert, secondary mathematics education,&nbsp;Beloit; Malia Haught, elementary education,&nbsp;Goddard; Audrey Birkenbaugh, secondary mathematics education,&nbsp;Kingman; Elyse Ramsey, elementary education,&nbsp;Salina; and Mia Wells, educational studies,&nbsp;Elburn, Illinois. The Outstanding Graduate Student in Education Award recognizes a doctoral student for excellence in scholarship and outstanding service. This year's recipient is Tracey Conway, curriculum and instruction,&nbsp;Manhattan.&nbsp; The Outstanding Graduate Student Teaching Award recognizes a College of Education graduate student with teaching responsibilities at K-State during the academic year in which the award is presented. The successful candidate must demonstrate highly effective teaching. This year's recipient is Chanh Bao Lam, doctoral student in curriculum and instruction,&nbsp;Tuy Hoa,&nbsp;Vietnam. The Social Justice Advocacy Award recognizes leadership that promotes positive interactions and a commitment to the inclusion of persons of marginalized groups within the university or their home communities. Winners must also demonstrate an understanding and appreciation for differences among people and the ability to interact with people from diverse backgrounds, advocating for the fair and equitable treatment of all students. This year's recipient is Ernestina Wiafe, doctoral student in curriculum and instruction,&nbsp;Suhum, Ghana.

K-State College of Education announces outstanding students and future teachers

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): Probation Violation, Failure to Appear and&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Brown, Alexandra Elizabeth

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body and Poss of marijuana

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Outside warrant/NCIC hit, Interfere with LEO; False report of LEO for action, Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor, Distribute opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant; 3.5 - &lt; 100 grams, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Interference with LEO; knowingly flee by means other than motor vehicle for felony case, Distribute or poss w/int to distribute drug paraph for illegal use, Poss of marijuana, Crim poss weapon by a convicted felon, Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance and Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Theft of prop/serv;&lt;$1500 3 business in 72 hrs

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Loughridge, Christina Jo

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Matthews,Xavier Isaiah Phillips

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner

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/2024/5/1715084890534.png" alt="Albany, Timothy James" />
 <figcaption>Albany, Timothy James</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Albany, Timothy JamesREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation, Failure to Appear and&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715084944173.png" alt="Brown, Alexandra Elizabeth" />
 <figcaption>Brown, Alexandra Elizabeth</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp; &nbsp;Brown, Alexandra ElizabethREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body and Poss of marijuana<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715084999394.png" alt="Everhart, Dallas Aaron" />
 <figcaption>Everhart, Dallas Aaron</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Everhart, Dallas AaronREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715085047479.png" alt="Flynn, Michael John" />
 <figcaption>Flynn, Michael John</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Flynn, Michael JohnREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Outside warrant/NCIC hit, Interfere with LEO; False report of LEO for action, Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor, Distribute opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant; 3.5 - &lt; 100 grams, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Interference with LEO; knowingly flee by means other than motor vehicle for felony case, Distribute or poss w/int to distribute drug paraph for illegal use, Poss of marijuana, Crim poss weapon by a convicted felon, Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance and Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715085129646.png" alt="Howell, Chase Allen" />
 <figcaption>Howell, Chase Allen</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Howell, Chase AllenREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Theft of prop/serv;&lt;$1500 3 business in 72 hrs<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715085168500.png" alt="Loughridge, Christina Jo" />
 <figcaption>Loughridge, Christina Jo</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Loughridge, Christina JoREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715085208697.png" alt="Matthews, Xavier Isaiah Phillips" />
 <figcaption>Matthews, Xavier Isaiah Phillips</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Matthews,Xavier Isaiah PhillipsREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715085259265.png" alt="Tatum,Jacob Lewis" />
 <figcaption>Tatum,Jacob Lewis</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Tatum, Jacob LewisREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Failure to Appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715085299058.png" alt=" Wirtz, Patrick Jerome" />
 <figcaption> Wirtz, Patrick Jerome</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Wirtz, Patrick JeromeREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Failure to Appear

Saline County Jail Bookings, May 7

The 14th Annual SculptureTour Salina took place on Saturday, March 4. In total 2o NEW sculptures line Santa Fe Avenue in Downtown Salina, Kansas.

Salina visitors and locals are encouraged to vote for the “People’s Choice” award. Ballots can be found in metal containers near the crosswalks along Santa Fe Avenue. After you select your favorite, place your ballot in the box located at one of the crosswalks in downtown. Voting closes on December 31.

In memoriam, the 2024 SculptureTour is dedicated to Sylvia Rice.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715017064649.jpeg" alt="Salina Sculpture Tour volunteer Riley Rundell unveils the "Going Home" sculpture by Nebraska artist Sondra Jonson on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina Sculpture Tour volunteer Riley Rundell unveils the "Going Home" sculpture by Nebraska artist Sondra Jonson on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe 14th Annual SculptureTour Salina took place on Saturday, March 4. In total 2o NEW sculptures line Santa Fe Avenue in Downtown Salina, Kansas.Salina visitors and locals are encouraged to vote for the “People’s Choice” award. Ballots can be found in metal containers near the crosswalks along Santa Fe Avenue. After you select your favorite, place your ballot in the box located at one of the crosswalks in downtown. Voting closes on December 31.In memoriam, the 2024 SculptureTour is dedicated to Sylvia Rice.<h2>Photos from SculptureTour 2024</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715017175246.jpeg" alt=""The Melting of Indifference" by Kansas artist Tim Chapman sits exposed after volunteers unveiled the new sculpture during the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"The Melting of Indifference" by Kansas artist Tim Chapman sits exposed after volunteers unveiled the new sculpture during the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715017242148.jpeg" alt=""Forward Motion" by Colorado artist Jodie Bliss sits in front of the Stiefel Theatre as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Forward Motion" by Colorado artist Jodie Bliss sits in front of the Stiefel Theatre as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715017378444.jpeg" alt=""Forward Motion" by Colorado artist Jodie Bliss sits in front of the Stiefel Theatre as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Forward Motion" by Colorado artist Jodie Bliss sits in front of the Stiefel Theatre as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><div><div class="flourish-embed flourish-photo-slider" data-src="visualisation/17851339"><script src="https://public.flourish.studio/resources/embed.js"></script></div></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715017484393.jpeg" alt="Colorado artist Damian Radice stands next to his sculpture "It's About Time" included in the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Colorado artist Damian Radice stands next to his sculpture "It's About Time" included in the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715017555491.jpeg" alt=""Something New for Otto" by Kansas artist James Bryant sits unveiled near The Temple as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Something New for Otto" by Kansas artist James Bryant sits unveiled near The Temple as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715017747590.jpeg" alt=""Plum Crazy" by Kansas artist Robert Peck sits on display near a crosswalk across Santa Fe Avenue as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Plum Crazy" by Kansas artist Robert Peck sits on display near a crosswalk across Santa Fe Avenue as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715017809355.jpeg" alt=""Honey Bee" by Nebraska artist Alex Shaw sits across from First Bank Kansas displayed as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Honey Bee" by Nebraska artist Alex Shaw sits across from First Bank Kansas displayed as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715018010304.jpeg" alt=""Soul Support" by Texas artist Ruth Burink stands on display as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Soul Support" by Texas artist Ruth Burink stands on display as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715018071621.jpeg" alt=""Brandie" by Kansas artist Rollin Karg is featured as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Brandie" by Kansas artist Rollin Karg is featured as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715018134684.jpeg" alt=""Ancestral Tree" by New York artist Glenn Zweygardt stands near the Stiefel Theatre on display as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Ancestral Tree" by New York artist Glenn Zweygardt stands near the Stiefel Theatre on display as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715018191585.jpeg" alt=""Free Falling" by Joe and Terry Malesky from Missouri stands near Campbell Plaza on display as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Free Falling" by Joe and Terry Malesky from Missouri stands near Campbell Plaza on display as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715018298415.jpeg" alt=""Hummingbird" by Nebraska artist Alex Shaw sits on display as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Hummingbird" by Nebraska artist Alex Shaw sits on display as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715018361701.jpeg" alt=""Stairs to Anywhere" by Colorado artist Jodie Bliss stands on display in downtown as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Stairs to Anywhere" by Colorado artist Jodie Bliss stands on display in downtown as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715018538165.jpeg" alt=""Forging the Future" by the USD 305 Art Club sits on display as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Forging the Future" by the USD 305 Art Club sits on display as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715020490151.jpeg" alt="Students in Mr. Dow’s welding class unveiled their art work “Forging the Future” at the Sculpture Tour Salina. Photo Courtesy USD 305" />
 <figcaption>Students in Mr. Dow’s welding class unveiled their art work “Forging the Future” at the Sculpture Tour Salina. Photo Courtesy USD 305</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715018563094.jpeg" alt=""Forging the Future" by the USD 305 Art Club sits on display as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Forging the Future" by the USD 305 Art Club sits on display as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715018637511.jpeg" alt=""Like a Fish Out of Water" by Missouri artists Joe and Terry Malesky sits on display in the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Like a Fish Out of Water" by Missouri artists Joe and Terry Malesky sits on display in the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715018730560.jpeg" alt=""Mr. Hatter's Pursuits In Becoming Human: 005 The Metamorphosis" by Kansas artist Brady Hatter sits on the corner of Elm Street and Santa Fe Avenue as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Mr. Hatter's Pursuits In Becoming Human: 005 The Metamorphosis" by Kansas artist Brady Hatter sits on the corner of Elm Street and Santa Fe Avenue as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715018790476.jpeg" alt=""Rising Scaffolding" by Kansas artist Rollin Karg sits on display after volunteers unveiled the sculpture as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Rising Scaffolding" by Kansas artist Rollin Karg sits on display after volunteers unveiled the sculpture as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715018855315.jpeg" alt=""Desert Trumpet" by Colorado Artist Reven Marie Swanson sits near the intersection of Ash Street and Santa Fe Avenue as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Desert Trumpet" by Colorado Artist Reven Marie Swanson sits near the intersection of Ash Street and Santa Fe Avenue as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715018907209.jpeg" alt=""Lucky Ducks Boy" by Texas artist Marianne Caroselli sits on display as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Lucky Ducks Boy" by Texas artist Marianne Caroselli sits on display as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715018944924.jpeg" alt=""Transpiration" by Kansas artist Conrad Snider sits on display as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>"Transpiration" by Kansas artist Conrad Snider sits on display as part of the 2024 Sculpture Tour Salina on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>

📸 2024 SculptureTour Salina

Submitted According to a post made on social media, Saline County Emergency Management will be postponing the Monthly Outdoor Warning Siren Test due to inclement weather in the area.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715031327259.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted According to a post made on social media, Saline County Emergency Management will be postponing the Monthly Outdoor Warning Siren Test due to inclement weather in the area.

Saline County postpones monthly outdoor warning siren test due to inclement weather

According to Karen Couch, executive director for the<a href="https://www.salinafood.org/"> Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank</a>, located at 255 S. Chicago, told Salina Post the food bank will close at 4:30 p.m. on May 6 due to pending inclement weather.&nbsp;

Couch said evening food distribution is canceled.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601322377495.jpeg" alt="Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank" />
 <figcaption>Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTAccording to Karen Couch, executive director for the<a href="https://www.salinafood.org/"> Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank</a>, located at 255 S. Chicago, told Salina Post the food bank will close at 4:30 p.m. on May 6 due to pending inclement weather.&nbsp;Couch said evening food distribution is canceled.&nbsp;

Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank closes early Monday due to weather

<a>OCCK Transportation, through Salina CityGo, is continuing the successful “Get On &amp; Go” program for Salina area kids ages 7-18 for the summer of 2024.&nbsp;</a>

Youth ages 7-18 will be able to purchase a “Get On &amp; Go” Summer Youth Bus Pass for $10.&nbsp; The pass will be good for unlimited rides on Salina CityGo from June 1 to August 31.&nbsp; Youth must show the drivers their “Get On &amp; Go” pass when they board the buses.&nbsp;

Riding the bus gives kids the freedom to get around in the summer.&nbsp; The “Get On &amp; Go” Summer Youth Bus Pass is a great way for kids to get to summer activities, summer lunches, community centers, parks, the library, shopping and more.&nbsp; Social distancing policies will be followed as needed.

The Summer Youth Bus Pass is available for purchase online on May 15, 2024, at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salinacitygo.com/" target="_blank">www.salinacitygo.com</a>&nbsp;and Buy A Pass, with options for pick up.&nbsp; They will also be available at OCCK Transportation, 340 N. Santa Fe starting May 15, 2024.&nbsp;

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

For more information call OCCK Transportation at 826-1583 or go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salinacitygo.com/" target="_blank">www.salinacitygo.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715012036533.jpeg" alt="[Original size] Get On &amp; Go 2020.jpg" />
 <figcaption>[Original size] Get On &amp; Go 2020.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted<a>OCCK Transportation, through Salina CityGo, is continuing the successful “Get On &amp; Go” program for Salina area kids ages 7-18 for the summer of 2024.&nbsp;</a>Youth ages 7-18 will be able to purchase a “Get On &amp; Go” Summer Youth Bus Pass for $10.&nbsp; The pass will be good for unlimited rides on Salina CityGo from June 1 to August 31.&nbsp; Youth must show the drivers their “Get On &amp; Go” pass when they board the buses.&nbsp;Riding the bus gives kids the freedom to get around in the summer.&nbsp; The “Get On &amp; Go” Summer Youth Bus Pass is a great way for kids to get to summer activities, summer lunches, community centers, parks, the library, shopping and more.&nbsp; Social distancing policies will be followed as needed.The Summer Youth Bus Pass is available for purchase online on May 15, 2024, at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salinacitygo.com/" target="_blank">www.salinacitygo.com</a>&nbsp;and Buy A Pass, with options for pick up.&nbsp; They will also be available at OCCK Transportation, 340 N. Santa Fe starting May 15, 2024.&nbsp;The Summer Pass will also be available digitally in the Token Transit app.&nbsp; All OCCK Transportation services have a digital fare option.For more information call OCCK Transportation at 826-1583 or go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salinacitygo.com/" target="_blank">www.salinacitygo.com</a>.

OCCK Get On & Go youth summer bus passes on sale May 15

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina Post

A Salina resident doing construction work on a property in the 200 block of East Jewell Avenue returned to the home at about 5:18 p.m. on Friday, May 3, and found more than $4,800 in tools missing from the property.

Salina Police Department (SPD) Capt. David Villanueva said that sometime between 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 30, and the evening of May 3, an unknown suspect broke through a window to gain access to the "oodles of tools."

"A 43-year-old Salina male had apparantly bought this property and had been doing some work on this property," Villanueva said. "He found when he came back that there was a window in the back of the home that had been broken out and entry was made. Inside, he had just oodles of tools."

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/0bff8d17-4692-4605-a56b-4ca82f54a227">UPDATED — local officials prepare for severe weather</a>

The total damage done by the unknown suspect amounted to $5,060, with $200 accounted for in the damage to the broken window and the remaining $4,860 as stolen tools.

Villanueva said the suspect stole power tools, levels, drills, saws, an air compressor, a leaf blower, a bandsaw and more from the property.

"To move that much product, you have to have a vehicle. I don't think you're going to be doing all that on foot," Villanueva said. "I would hope that somebody would be able to have some video in that area."

SPD officers continue investigating the burglary.

Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574355645622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostA Salina resident doing construction work on a property in the 200 block of East Jewell Avenue returned to the home at about 5:18 p.m. on Friday, May 3, and found more than $4,800 in tools missing from the property.Salina Police Department (SPD) Capt. David Villanueva said that sometime between 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 30, and the evening of May 3, an unknown suspect broke through a window to gain access to the "oodles of tools.""A 43-year-old Salina male had apparantly bought this property and had been doing some work on this property," Villanueva said. "He found when he came back that there was a window in the back of the home that had been broken out and entry was made. Inside, he had just oodles of tools."READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/0bff8d17-4692-4605-a56b-4ca82f54a227">UPDATED — local officials prepare for severe weather</a>The total damage done by the unknown suspect amounted to $5,060, with $200 accounted for in the damage to the broken window and the remaining $4,860 as stolen tools.Villanueva said the suspect stole power tools, levels, drills, saws, an air compressor, a leaf blower, a bandsaw and more from the property."To move that much product, you have to have a vehicle. I don't think you're going to be doing all that on foot," Villanueva said. "I would hope that somebody would be able to have some video in that area."SPD officers continue investigating the burglary.Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.

Almost $5,000 in tools stolen from house under construction

After consultation with the National Weather Service and surrounding district administrators and due to the pending severe weather, the school will be dismissed today, Monday, May 6, at 1 p.m.

Busses will be running at that time. Fifth-grade students attending StarBase will be back by this dismissal time.&nbsp;

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/0bff8d17-4692-4605-a56b-4ca82f54a227">UPDATED — local officials prepare for severe weather</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715011714569.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted by Lincoln USD 298After consultation with the National Weather Service and surrounding district administrators and due to the pending severe weather, the school will be dismissed today, Monday, May 6, at 1 p.m. Busses will be running at that time. Fifth-grade students attending StarBase will be back by this dismissal time.&nbsp;READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/0bff8d17-4692-4605-a56b-4ca82f54a227">UPDATED — local officials prepare for severe weather</a>

USD 298 calls early dismissal preceding severe weather

Cloud County Community College commencement activities are scheduled for 5 p.m. on Friday, May 17 in Arley Bryant Gymnasium on the Concordia campus. The event will recognize&nbsp;197&nbsp;graduates from the Concordia and Geary County campuses and outreach locations.

For those who cannot attend, the ceremony will be livestreamed on the College’s YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@cloudthunderbirds2386/streams" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@cloudthunderbirds2386/streams</a>.

The link will be available on the college website’s main page, and on social media.

Graduates and their guests are invited to a reception prior to commencement in the T-Bird Café on the Concordia campus from 2:30-4:30 p.m. on Friday.

The nurses’ pinning ceremony will be at 2 p.m. in the gymnasium. For those who cannot attend, the event will also be streamed on YouTube. The link will be available on the college’s website and social media pages. It will also be on the Nursing Department’s Facebook page (Cloud County Community College Nursing Program).

The Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award will be presented to&nbsp;Senator Elaine Bowers.

Senator Elaine S. (Haley) Bowers graduated with her Associates of Arts degree in Travel and Tourism and Business Management in 1983. She said she chose Cloud because of the degree program offered in partnership with Trans World Airlines and the strong connections she made from visiting campus, namely, Wally Carlson.

While attending Cloud, she found her passion in representing the student body and making a difference by participating in Student Senate. She also met and fell in love with her husband, Charlie Bowers, when they both took a bowling class for their PE course. She has worked side by side with her husband at their business, Concordia Auto Mart, Inc. since 1988. Elaine credits her time at Cloud as an opportunity to learn the value of community colleges in Kansas first-hand from people who genuinely cared about her future, which has impacted her career as a Kansas politician.

Sen. Bowers was first elected in 2007 to serve as State Representative for District 107. In 2010, both the Senate and House districts were redrawn due to the previous US census. Senate District #36 was formed, which included House District 107 and added twelve more counties. Today, she represents more than 71,000 people in north central, west, and eastern Kansas in the 36th&nbsp;Senate District. The district is the second largest in the state, with thirteen counties and more than 10,500 square miles.

She is serving in her third Senate term since first being elected in 2012.&nbsp; She is the Chairman of the Transparency and Ethics Committee and serves on Local Government, Utilities, Judiciary, Transportation Committees as a member, the Joint (Senate and House) Post Audit Committee, and the Capitol Preservation Committee appointed by the Senate President.&nbsp;

Sen. Bowers has recently announced her candidacy for re-election to the Kansas State Senate.&nbsp; She seeks to continue her dedicated representation and advocacy for the constituents of her district.

The student speaker at graduation will be Zach Chance, Concordia campus Student Senate president.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696510717769.jpeg" alt="Cloud County " />
 <figcaption>Cloud County </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedCloud County Community College commencement activities are scheduled for 5 p.m. on Friday, May 17 in Arley Bryant Gymnasium on the Concordia campus. The event will recognize&nbsp;197&nbsp;graduates from the Concordia and Geary County campuses and outreach locations.For those who cannot attend, the ceremony will be livestreamed on the College’s YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@cloudthunderbirds2386/streams" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@cloudthunderbirds2386/streams</a>.The link will be available on the college website’s main page, and on social media.Graduates and their guests are invited to a reception prior to commencement in the T-Bird Café on the Concordia campus from 2:30-4:30 p.m. on Friday.The nurses’ pinning ceremony will be at 2 p.m. in the gymnasium. For those who cannot attend, the event will also be streamed on YouTube. The link will be available on the college’s website and social media pages. It will also be on the Nursing Department’s Facebook page (Cloud County Community College Nursing Program).The Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award will be presented to&nbsp;Senator Elaine Bowers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644853578448.jpeg" alt="Senator Elaine Bowers, a 1983 graduate, will receive the Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award at Cloud County Community College’s commencement exercises on Friday, May 17." />
 <figcaption>Senator Elaine Bowers, a 1983 graduate, will receive the Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award at Cloud County Community College’s commencement exercises on Friday, May 17.</figcaption>
 </figure>Senator Elaine S. (Haley) Bowers graduated with her Associates of Arts degree in Travel and Tourism and Business Management in 1983. She said she chose Cloud because of the degree program offered in partnership with Trans World Airlines and the strong connections she made from visiting campus, namely, Wally Carlson.While attending Cloud, she found her passion in representing the student body and making a difference by participating in Student Senate. She also met and fell in love with her husband, Charlie Bowers, when they both took a bowling class for their PE course. She has worked side by side with her husband at their business, Concordia Auto Mart, Inc. since 1988. Elaine credits her time at Cloud as an opportunity to learn the value of community colleges in Kansas first-hand from people who genuinely cared about her future, which has impacted her career as a Kansas politician.Sen. Bowers was first elected in 2007 to serve as State Representative for District 107. In 2010, both the Senate and House districts were redrawn due to the previous US census. Senate District #36 was formed, which included House District 107 and added twelve more counties. Today, she represents more than 71,000 people in north central, west, and eastern Kansas in the 36th&nbsp;Senate District. The district is the second largest in the state, with thirteen counties and more than 10,500 square miles.She is serving in her third Senate term since first being elected in 2012.&nbsp; She is the Chairman of the Transparency and Ethics Committee and serves on Local Government, Utilities, Judiciary, Transportation Committees as a member, the Joint (Senate and House) Post Audit Committee, and the Capitol Preservation Committee appointed by the Senate President.&nbsp;Sen. Bowers has recently announced her candidacy for re-election to the Kansas State Senate.&nbsp; She seeks to continue her dedicated representation and advocacy for the constituents of her district.The student speaker at graduation will be Zach Chance, Concordia campus Student Senate president.

Cloud County Community College graduation set for May 17

From Monday through Friday, May 6th through 10th, APAC Shears of Salina will continue work on the City of Salina’s annual asphalt mill and inlay project. The schedule is as follows, weather permitting:

Broadway Ave. medians, south to State Street on Monday, May 6.

Ninth Street at Cloud Street on May 7-10.

The work consists of milling the existing asphalt street surface 1.5” to 2” and replacing it with new asphalt to rehabilitate and preserve the pavement section. Permanent pavement markings will be placed shortly after the resurfacing.

The work will be completed with lane closures. Motorists should expect modest delays and are encouraged to avoid the work zones altogether if possible.

This work is part of the $1.17 million project that is a major component of the City of Salina's $5.9 million 2024 maintenance capital improvement program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715006256989.png" alt="Image Courtesy City of Salina" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy City of Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>City of SalinaFrom Monday through Friday, May 6th through 10th, APAC Shears of Salina will continue work on the City of Salina’s annual asphalt mill and inlay project. The schedule is as follows, weather permitting: Broadway Ave. medians, south to State Street on Monday, May 6.Ninth Street at Cloud Street on May 7-10.The work consists of milling the existing asphalt street surface 1.5” to 2” and replacing it with new asphalt to rehabilitate and preserve the pavement section. Permanent pavement markings will be placed shortly after the resurfacing.The work will be completed with lane closures. Motorists should expect modest delays and are encouraged to avoid the work zones altogether if possible.This work is part of the $1.17 million project that is a major component of the City of Salina's $5.9 million 2024 maintenance capital improvement program.

Mill and inlay work continues in Salina

Community members and visitors in town for the 14th Annual Salina ScuptureTour got a chance to hear from the Dodge City, Kansas-based band <a href="https://www.facebook.com/tofueatingshark/">Vegan Shark </a>on Friday, May 3.

<a href="https://www.salinadowntown.org/events-info?pgid=lkiqvoca-fb031623-6474-4e9d-bb1b-1c5fad166287">The next LIVE First Friday will be Friday, June 7.&nbsp;</a>

By NATE KING Salina Post

Salina Downtown is set for another First Friday music and art weekend.&nbsp;

Kicking off the weekend on Friday, May 3 several downtown businesses will host artist receptions featuring local talent.
Peaceful Body Wellness Retreat on S. Santa Fe will showcase the works of artist Karla Pricket from 5-7 p.m., while Subvert Studio on E Iron will be featuring Noah Flores with music from DJ K-ODD from 5-8 p.m.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/be70d35d-8e45-4891-80f1-fd5d57dfcdcc">14th Annual SculptureTour Salina features 22 NEW sculptures, May 4</a>

The Greater Salina Community Foundation in the United Building on the 8th floor will host an artist reception with Rachel Miller from 4-6 p.m., and "A Work in Progress" on E Walnut will be showcase Renelle Kvasnicka from 4-6 p.m.

In addition to the art events, Salina Downtown Inc. will host<a href="https://tofueatingshark.bandcamp.com/track/sins-of-a-son"> Vegan Shark</a> at the City Lights Stage,&nbsp;199 N Santa Fe Ave. from 6-8 p.m., providing a mix of indie rock music.&nbsp;

"Vegan Shark is a three-person band from Dodge City and they play kind of bluesy, progressive rock type music," said Leslie Bishop, executive director for Salina Downtown. "We had them last year but it was so blasted hot, so we invited him back and we can't wait to hear them perform."

Vegan Shark's newest release, "Traffic Jam"

Drawing inspiration from groups like the Beach Boys, Genesis and Supertramp, Vegan Shark is ready to be back in Salina.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"The City Lights Stage is really cool too. It has a really nice backdrop. Not all towns have stages, and with a big mural in the background and it just adds a lot to to the performance, " said band member Nash Griggs. "We always have a great time in Salina."

Bishop said LIVE First Friday attendees are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs and coolers, but please do not bring pets.&nbsp;

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QHxvwjWxBtY?si=eACHcy1kLSNXSNef" 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>By SALINA POSTCommunity members and visitors in town for the 14th Annual Salina ScuptureTour got a chance to hear from the Dodge City, Kansas-based band <a href="https://www.facebook.com/tofueatingshark/">Vegan Shark </a>on Friday, May 3.<a href="https://www.salinadowntown.org/events-info?pgid=lkiqvoca-fb031623-6474-4e9d-bb1b-1c5fad166287">The next LIVE First Friday will be Friday, June 7.&nbsp;</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715008915089.jpeg" alt="Guitarist and singer for Vegan Shark, Nash Griggs, told Salina Post that Vegan Shark always loves performing at City Lights Stage because there are good crowds and the colorful background of the stage. The group performed as part of Salina Downtown's First Friday's entertainment.&nbsp;Photo by Nate King" />
 <figcaption>Guitarist and singer for Vegan Shark, Nash Griggs, told Salina Post that Vegan Shark always loves performing at City Lights Stage because there are good crowds and the colorful background of the stage. The group performed as part of Salina Downtown's First Friday's entertainment.&nbsp;Photo by Nate King</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715009217030.jpeg" alt="Base guitarist and keyboardist for Vegan Shark Brandon Brown. Photo by Nate King" />
 <figcaption>Base guitarist and keyboardist for Vegan Shark Brandon Brown. Photo by Nate King</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715008461079.jpeg" alt="Vegan Shark drummer, Nathan Adamson smashes away at the drum heads and cymbals during the band's recent concert at City Light's Stage on Friday, May 3. Photo by Nate King" />
 <figcaption>Vegan Shark drummer, Nathan Adamson smashes away at the drum heads and cymbals during the band's recent concert at City Light's Stage on Friday, May 3. Photo by Nate King</figcaption>
 </figure>By NATE KING Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714054084426.jpeg" alt="Salina Downtown Inc." />
 <figcaption>Salina Downtown Inc.</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Downtown is set for another First Friday music and art weekend.&nbsp;Kicking off the weekend on Friday, May 3 several downtown businesses will host artist receptions featuring local talent.
Peaceful Body Wellness Retreat on S. Santa Fe will showcase the works of artist Karla Pricket from 5-7 p.m., while Subvert Studio on E Iron will be featuring Noah Flores with music from DJ K-ODD from 5-8 p.m.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/be70d35d-8e45-4891-80f1-fd5d57dfcdcc">14th Annual SculptureTour Salina features 22 NEW sculptures, May 4</a>The Greater Salina Community Foundation in the United Building on the 8th floor will host an artist reception with Rachel Miller from 4-6 p.m., and "A Work in Progress" on E Walnut will be showcase Renelle Kvasnicka from 4-6 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714570654073.jpeg" alt="Vegan Shark lead singer and guitarist Nash Griggs📷: Luis Eduardo Silva" />
 <figcaption>Vegan Shark lead singer and guitarist Nash Griggs📷: Luis Eduardo Silva</figcaption>
 </figure>In addition to the art events, Salina Downtown Inc. will host<a href="https://tofueatingshark.bandcamp.com/track/sins-of-a-son"> Vegan Shark</a> at the City Lights Stage,&nbsp;199 N Santa Fe Ave. from 6-8 p.m., providing a mix of indie rock music.&nbsp;"Vegan Shark is a three-person band from Dodge City and they play kind of bluesy, progressive rock type music," said Leslie Bishop, executive director for Salina Downtown. "We had them last year but it was so blasted hot, so we invited him back and we can't wait to hear them perform."<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Ftofueatingshark%2Fvideos%2F1165367264485661%2F&show_text=false&width=476&t=0" width="476" height="476" 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>Vegan Shark's newest release, "Traffic Jam"Drawing inspiration from groups like the Beach Boys, Genesis and Supertramp, Vegan Shark is ready to be back in Salina.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The City Lights Stage is really cool too. It has a really nice backdrop. Not all towns have stages, and with a big mural in the background and it just adds a lot to to the performance, " said band member Nash Griggs. "We always have a great time in Salina."Bishop said LIVE First Friday attendees are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs and coolers, but please do not bring pets.&nbsp;<h2>More First Friday Events</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714571014801.png" alt="Karla Stangel Prickett Artist Reception" />
 <figcaption>Karla Stangel Prickett Artist Reception</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714571788872.png" alt="" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714571825191.png" alt="" />
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🎥UPDATED: A quick look — May LIVE First Friday in Downtown Salina

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher

For many, these next few days and weeks consist of&nbsp;a lot of&nbsp;events that will generally take place outside. For my community, that involves city-wide garage sales, student field days and a&nbsp;huge&nbsp;multiday&nbsp;countywide&nbsp;celebration that includes outdoor performances, student competitions at the park, a carnival and&nbsp;a fantastically&nbsp;impressive&nbsp;parade that attracts residents of our county and beyond to attend.&nbsp;

The talk has already begun about how&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;looking like&nbsp;this&nbsp;year’s&nbsp;county-wide&nbsp;events are gearing up&nbsp;to have&nbsp;“perfect weather".&nbsp;&nbsp;

My husband says he stopped praying for rain a long time ago.&nbsp;It’s&nbsp;not that he&nbsp;doesn’t&nbsp;believe his prayers for&nbsp;rain are heard;&nbsp;it's&nbsp;just that&nbsp;there’s&nbsp;more folks wanting&nbsp;to go to that outdoor concert or the widely anticipated&nbsp;county-wide&nbsp;parade&nbsp;not&nbsp;in the rain.

I have a tab&nbsp;open&nbsp;on my computer that leads me straight to a website containing the current Kansas drought maps. While the maps are full of vivid colors&nbsp;including&nbsp;deep reds and oranges, the colors on display are not&nbsp;the ones&nbsp;we want to see.&nbsp;

The most concerning statistic I&nbsp;can’t&nbsp;help but continually check on is a map&nbsp;shows&nbsp;the soil moisture conditions based on the soil moisture content of the top 20 centimeters&nbsp;of soil.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Those top 20 centimeters of soil&nbsp;is&nbsp;the lifeblood for the start of our crops.&nbsp;It’s&nbsp;where the seeds germinate and take root. And in our area,&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;dry — as in deep red, not the color you want to see on the map, dry.

While our corn and popcorn seeds are&nbsp;now&nbsp;in the ground,&nbsp;we’ve&nbsp;decided to hold off planting the soybeans until we catch a rain.&nbsp;We’re&nbsp;waiting for a different kind of&nbsp;“perfect weather”&nbsp;compared to&nbsp;so many other folks right now.&nbsp;

It is my hope&nbsp;that before&nbsp;this piece goes to print, the rain will have arrived for Kansas farmers and ranchers.&nbsp;It is my&nbsp;hope that the drought monitor maps I have been continually checking to see any signs of change&nbsp;begin showing change&nbsp;for the better.&nbsp;

And while my husband may not ask for the rain specifically, I ask others to join me in prayer:

Lord, we cherish the times&nbsp;with our loved ones&nbsp;when we can share a meal&nbsp;together&nbsp;outside.&nbsp;We know&nbsp;for many&nbsp;a&nbsp;lot of planning has to be done to make that happen, but please, Lord, we ask you to help those families enjoy their time together as they move their picnic indoors.

Lord, we know&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;near the end of the school year, and children need to be outside, but provide the teachers with enough strength and patience to keep the kids inside for recess to avoid soggy shoes and socks, wet hair and muddy floors.

Lord, we know that it will be&nbsp;an inconvenience&nbsp;for&nbsp;many,&nbsp;and&nbsp;that&nbsp;there may be less seating and frustrated families, but please move that graduation ceremony from the football field into the&nbsp;school's&nbsp;gym.

And Lord, we know that a lot of work&nbsp;is put into the building of&nbsp;those floats&nbsp;and a lot of&nbsp;people travel many miles to attend, but please, Lord, we ask you to help those parade-goers embrace their celebratory spirit under open umbrellas.&nbsp;Please, Lord, rain on our parade.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="Kim-Baldwin Insight.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Kim-Baldwin Insight.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancherFor many, these next few days and weeks consist of&nbsp;a lot of&nbsp;events that will generally take place outside. For my community, that involves city-wide garage sales, student field days and a&nbsp;huge&nbsp;multiday&nbsp;countywide&nbsp;celebration that includes outdoor performances, student competitions at the park, a carnival and&nbsp;a fantastically&nbsp;impressive&nbsp;parade that attracts residents of our county and beyond to attend.&nbsp;The talk has already begun about how&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;looking like&nbsp;this&nbsp;year’s&nbsp;county-wide&nbsp;events are gearing up&nbsp;to have&nbsp;“perfect weather".&nbsp;&nbsp;My husband says he stopped praying for rain a long time ago.&nbsp;It’s&nbsp;not that he&nbsp;doesn’t&nbsp;believe his prayers for&nbsp;rain are heard;&nbsp;it's&nbsp;just that&nbsp;there’s&nbsp;more folks wanting&nbsp;to go to that outdoor concert or the widely anticipated&nbsp;county-wide&nbsp;parade&nbsp;not&nbsp;in the rain.I have a tab&nbsp;open&nbsp;on my computer that leads me straight to a website containing the current Kansas drought maps. While the maps are full of vivid colors&nbsp;including&nbsp;deep reds and oranges, the colors on display are not&nbsp;the ones&nbsp;we want to see.&nbsp;The most concerning statistic I&nbsp;can’t&nbsp;help but continually check on is a map&nbsp;shows&nbsp;the soil moisture conditions based on the soil moisture content of the top 20 centimeters&nbsp;of soil.&nbsp;&nbsp;Those top 20 centimeters of soil&nbsp;is&nbsp;the lifeblood for the start of our crops.&nbsp;It’s&nbsp;where the seeds germinate and take root. And in our area,&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;dry — as in deep red, not the color you want to see on the map, dry.While our corn and popcorn seeds are&nbsp;now&nbsp;in the ground,&nbsp;we’ve&nbsp;decided to hold off planting the soybeans until we catch a rain.&nbsp;We’re&nbsp;waiting for a different kind of&nbsp;“perfect weather”&nbsp;compared to&nbsp;so many other folks right now.&nbsp;It is my hope&nbsp;that before&nbsp;this piece goes to print, the rain will have arrived for Kansas farmers and ranchers.&nbsp;It is my&nbsp;hope that the drought monitor maps I have been continually checking to see any signs of change&nbsp;begin showing change&nbsp;for the better.&nbsp;And while my husband may not ask for the rain specifically, I ask others to join me in prayer:Lord, we cherish the times&nbsp;with our loved ones&nbsp;when we can share a meal&nbsp;together&nbsp;outside.&nbsp;We know&nbsp;for many&nbsp;a&nbsp;lot of planning has to be done to make that happen, but please, Lord, we ask you to help those families enjoy their time together as they move their picnic indoors.Lord, we know&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;near the end of the school year, and children need to be outside, but provide the teachers with enough strength and patience to keep the kids inside for recess to avoid soggy shoes and socks, wet hair and muddy floors.Lord, we know that it will be&nbsp;an inconvenience&nbsp;for&nbsp;many,&nbsp;and&nbsp;that&nbsp;there may be less seating and frustrated families, but please move that graduation ceremony from the football field into the&nbsp;school's&nbsp;gym.And Lord, we know that a lot of work&nbsp;is put into the building of&nbsp;those floats&nbsp;and a lot of&nbsp;people travel many miles to attend, but please, Lord, we ask you to help those parade-goers embrace their celebratory spirit under open umbrellas.&nbsp;Please, Lord, rain on our parade."Insight"&nbsp;is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the&nbsp;state's&nbsp;largest farm organization&nbsp;whose&nbsp;mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Insight Kansas — Rain on our parade

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

Over the weekend Kansas Wesleyan’s baseball team participated in this year’s KCAC Baseball Tournament, and finished runner up after a wild three-day run.

The Coyotes entered bracket play as the top seed, and quickly dispatched Evangel 5-1, but fell in a shock upset at the hands of McPherson.

A two-win Saturday would keep the Coyotes in the hunt, and the team would follow it with an elimination win over McPherson on Sunday, but Oklahoma Wesleyan would pull out the win, and the tournament title 6-4.

Despite that, the win over McPherson was an historic one for the Coyotes, who set a new record 44 wins in a single season.

Keeping things on the diamond, Abilene’s Maddie Murray hit two home runs against Chapman over the weekend to break the Cowgirl single season home run record, extending her total to seven this season.

And finally with a sweep of Beloit last week the Sacred Heart baseball team has officially won the NCAA outright with a perfect 10-0 record.

The Knights closed out the regular season 18-2 ranked as the #3 team in Class 1-2A.

Regional brackets are now out for all of our area teams, for more information head over to KSHSAA.org

<div><div>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ocSVQdMOrqo?si=mq1i6MjI9MZxEdG4" 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>
</div></div>Hello and happy Monday everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>_________Over the weekend Kansas Wesleyan’s baseball team participated in this year’s KCAC Baseball Tournament, and finished runner up after a wild three-day run.The Coyotes entered bracket play as the top seed, and quickly dispatched Evangel 5-1, but fell in a shock upset at the hands of McPherson.A two-win Saturday would keep the Coyotes in the hunt, and the team would follow it with an elimination win over McPherson on Sunday, but Oklahoma Wesleyan would pull out the win, and the tournament title 6-4.Despite that, the win over McPherson was an historic one for the Coyotes, who set a new record 44 wins in a single season._________Keeping things on the diamond, Abilene’s Maddie Murray hit two home runs against Chapman over the weekend to break the Cowgirl single season home run record, extending her total to seven this season._________And finally with a sweep of Beloit last week the Sacred Heart baseball team has officially won the NCAA outright with a perfect 10-0 record.The Knights closed out the regular season 18-2 ranked as the #3 team in Class 1-2A.Regional brackets are now out for all of our area teams, for more information head over to KSHSAA.org_________That’s your sports update for today, but for even more great area sports content like this, check out <a href="https://twitter.com/SPostSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor">Salina Post</a> and stay tuned to <a href="http://910kina.com">910 KINA</a>.