On Feb. 13, 1935, a jury in Flemington, New Jersey, found Bruno Richard Hauptmann guilty of first-degree murder in the kidnap-slaying of Charles A. Lindbergh Jr., the 20-month-old son of Charles and Anne Lindbergh. (Hauptmann was later executed.)

In 1633, Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei arrived in Rome for trial before the Inquisition, accused of defending Copernican theory that the Earth revolved around the sun instead of the other way around. (Galileo was found vehemently suspect of heresy and ended up being sentenced to a form of house arrest.)

In 1933, the Warsaw Convention, governing airlines’ liability for international carriage of persons, luggage and goods, went into effect.

In 1939, Justice Louis D. Brandeis retired from the U.S. Supreme Court. (He was succeeded by William O. Douglas.)

In 1965, during the Vietnam War, President Lyndon B. Johnson authorized Operation Rolling Thunder, an extended bombing campaign against the North Vietnamese.

In 1972, the film “Cabaret,” directed by Bob Fosse, based on John Kander and Fred Ebb’s musical of the same name, starring Liza Minnelli and Michael York, was released.

In 1980, the 13th Winter Olympics opened in Lake Placid, New York.

In 1991, during Operation Desert Storm, allied warplanes destroyed an underground shelter in Baghdad that had been identified as a military command center; Iraqi officials said 500 civilians were killed.

In 1996, the rock musical “Rent,” by Jonathan Larson, opened off-Broadway less than three weeks after Larson’s death.

In 2000, Charles Schulz’s final “Peanuts” strip ran in Sunday newspapers, the day after the cartoonist died in his sleep at his California home at age 77.

In 2002, John Walker Lindh pleaded not guilty in federal court in Alexandria, Virginia, to conspiring to kill Americans and supporting the Taliban and terrorist organizations. (Lindh later pleaded guilty to lesser offenses and was sentenced to 20 years in prison.)

In 2011, Egypt’s military leaders dissolved parliament, suspended the constitution and promised elections in moves cautiously welcomed by protesters who had helped topple President Hosni Mubarak.

In 2013, beginning a long farewell to his flock, a weary Pope Benedict XVI celebrated his final public Mass as pontiff, presiding over Ash Wednesday services inside St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican.

In 2016, Justice Antonin Scalia, the influential conservative and most provocative member of the U.S. Supreme Court, was found dead at a private residence in the Big Bend area of West Texas; he was 79.

In 2017, President Donald Trump’s embattled national security adviser, Michael Flynn, resigned following reports he had misled Vice President Mike Pence and other officials about his contacts with Russia.

In 2018, President Donald Trump’s personal attorney,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/united-states-government-04c9237571c747a88905716114b8d341">Michael Cohen, said he had paid $130,000 out of his own pocket&nbsp;</a>to a porn actress who claimed to have had a sexual relationship with Trump.

In 2021, former&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-capitol-siege-riots-trials-impeachments-b245b52fd7d4a079ae199c954baba452">President Donald Trump was acquitted by the Senate</a>&nbsp;at his second impeachment trial, the first to involve a former president, in which he was accused of inciting the attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6; seven Republicans joined all 50 Democrats in voting to convict, but it was far from the two-thirds threshold required.

In 2022, playing in their home stadium, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-rams-beat-bengals-9b60529f8014690bddae2637c788da1a">Los Angeles Rams beat the Cincinnati Bengals&nbsp;</a>23-20 in the Super Bowl.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707835000918.png" alt="Col. Charles A. Lindbergh testifies on the witness stand at the courthouse in Flemington, N.J., on June 27, 1932. Lindbergh is testifying against John Hughes Curtis, Norfolk shipbuilder, who is accused of hoaxing authorities during the Lindbergh kidnapping case. Col. Lindbergh told of his negotiations with Curtis, who had told Lindbergh that he had been in contact with the kidnappers who took the Lindbergh baby. (AP Photo)" />
 <figcaption>Col. Charles A. Lindbergh testifies on the witness stand at the courthouse in Flemington, N.J., on June 27, 1932. Lindbergh is testifying against John Hughes Curtis, Norfolk shipbuilder, who is accused of hoaxing authorities during the Lindbergh kidnapping case. Col. Lindbergh told of his negotiations with Curtis, who had told Lindbergh that he had been in contact with the kidnappers who took the Lindbergh baby. (AP Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Today in History:</h2>On Feb. 13, 1935, a jury in Flemington, New Jersey, found Bruno Richard Hauptmann guilty of first-degree murder in the kidnap-slaying of Charles A. Lindbergh Jr., the 20-month-old son of Charles and Anne Lindbergh. (Hauptmann was later executed.)<h2>On this date:</h2>In 1633, Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei arrived in Rome for trial before the Inquisition, accused of defending Copernican theory that the Earth revolved around the sun instead of the other way around. (Galileo was found vehemently suspect of heresy and ended up being sentenced to a form of house arrest.)In 1933, the Warsaw Convention, governing airlines’ liability for international carriage of persons, luggage and goods, went into effect.In 1939, Justice Louis D. Brandeis retired from the U.S. Supreme Court. (He was succeeded by William O. Douglas.)In 1965, during the Vietnam War, President Lyndon B. Johnson authorized Operation Rolling Thunder, an extended bombing campaign against the North Vietnamese.In 1972, the film “Cabaret,” directed by Bob Fosse, based on John Kander and Fred Ebb’s musical of the same name, starring Liza Minnelli and Michael York, was released.In 1980, the 13th Winter Olympics opened in Lake Placid, New York.In 1991, during Operation Desert Storm, allied warplanes destroyed an underground shelter in Baghdad that had been identified as a military command center; Iraqi officials said 500 civilians were killed.In 1996, the rock musical “Rent,” by Jonathan Larson, opened off-Broadway less than three weeks after Larson’s death.In 2000, Charles Schulz’s final “Peanuts” strip ran in Sunday newspapers, the day after the cartoonist died in his sleep at his California home at age 77.In 2002, John Walker Lindh pleaded not guilty in federal court in Alexandria, Virginia, to conspiring to kill Americans and supporting the Taliban and terrorist organizations. (Lindh later pleaded guilty to lesser offenses and was sentenced to 20 years in prison.)In 2011, Egypt’s military leaders dissolved parliament, suspended the constitution and promised elections in moves cautiously welcomed by protesters who had helped topple President Hosni Mubarak.In 2013, beginning a long farewell to his flock, a weary Pope Benedict XVI celebrated his final public Mass as pontiff, presiding over Ash Wednesday services inside St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican.In 2016, Justice Antonin Scalia, the influential conservative and most provocative member of the U.S. Supreme Court, was found dead at a private residence in the Big Bend area of West Texas; he was 79.In 2017, President Donald Trump’s embattled national security adviser, Michael Flynn, resigned following reports he had misled Vice President Mike Pence and other officials about his contacts with Russia.In 2018, President Donald Trump’s personal attorney,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/united-states-government-04c9237571c747a88905716114b8d341">Michael Cohen, said he had paid $130,000 out of his own pocket&nbsp;</a>to a porn actress who claimed to have had a sexual relationship with Trump.In 2021, former&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-capitol-siege-riots-trials-impeachments-b245b52fd7d4a079ae199c954baba452">President Donald Trump was acquitted by the Senate</a>&nbsp;at his second impeachment trial, the first to involve a former president, in which he was accused of inciting the attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6; seven Republicans joined all 50 Democrats in voting to convict, but it was far from the two-thirds threshold required.In 2022, playing in their home stadium, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-rams-beat-bengals-9b60529f8014690bddae2637c788da1a">Los Angeles Rams beat the Cincinnati Bengals&nbsp;</a>23-20 in the Super Bowl.

Today in History, Feb. 13

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

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

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Value Unknown and Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, No Proof Of Insurance, Operate a MV w/o a valid license, Poss of marijuana, Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant and Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Assault of LEO; Properly identified on duty and Battery on LEO; Physical contact with county or city officer on duty

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Garrett, Courtney Nicole

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body and Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Viol protection order; Stalking/sex asslt/hmn traf

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance

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

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

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/chokem Assault and Criminal restraint

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose misd warrant and Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Obstructing apprehenstion or prosecution: Misdemeanor, Poss of marijuana and 

Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Aggravated burglary; Vehicle; to commit felony, theft, domestic violence or sexually motivated crime, Criminal Damage to Property; Value Unknown, Domestic Battery: rude physical contact

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft, domestic violence or sexually motivated crime, Distribute certain stimulant; Unknown quantity, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500 and Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circumstance and Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):Probation Violation, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant, Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Holmes, Wallace Macintosh

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft, domestic violence or sexually motivated crime, Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor, Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500 and Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance

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/2024/2/1707831446822.png" alt="Arnold, Shannon Marie" />
 <figcaption>Arnold, Shannon Marie</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Arnold, Shannon MarieREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Value Unknown and Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707831492436.png" alt=" Boland, Indy Ray" />
 <figcaption> Boland, Indy Ray</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Boland, Indy RayREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, No Proof Of Insurance, Operate a MV w/o a valid license, Poss of marijuana, Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant and Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707831589659.png" alt="Casteel, Billie Jean" />
 <figcaption>Casteel, Billie Jean</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Casteel, Billie JeanREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Assault of LEO; Properly identified on duty and Battery on LEO; Physical contact with county or city officer on duty<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707831637341.png" alt="Davis, Crystal Marie" />
 <figcaption>Davis, Crystal Marie</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Davis, Crystal MarieREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Failure to Apppear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707831707738.png" alt="Dorch, Candice Nichole" />
 <figcaption>Dorch, Candice Nichole</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Dorch, Candice NicholeREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707831756836.png" alt="Ehster, Eric Scott" />
 <figcaption>Ehster, Eric Scott</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Ehster, Eric ScottREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707831793607.png" alt=" Garrett, Courtney Nicole" />
 <figcaption> Garrett, Courtney Nicole</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Garrett, Courtney NicoleREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body and Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707831840089.png" alt="Harper, John Wayne" />
 <figcaption>Harper, John Wayne</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Harper, John WayneREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Viol protection order; Stalking/sex asslt/hmn traf<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707831881663.png" alt="Heart, Donald Albert" />
 <figcaption>Heart, Donald Albert</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Heart, Donald AlbertREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707831941519.png" alt="Knight, Bradley Thomas" />
 <figcaption>Knight, Bradley Thomas</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Knight, Bradley ThomasREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707831980271.png" alt="Labonte, Shawn Robert" />
 <figcaption>Labonte, Shawn Robert</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Labonte, Shawn RobertREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707832025674.png" alt="Newman, Peter David" />
 <figcaption>Newman, Peter David</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Newman, Peter DavidREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707832070960.png" alt="Patton, Torick Ticcell" />
 <figcaption>Patton, Torick Ticcell</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Patton, Torick TiccellREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/chokem Assault and Criminal restraint<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707832178614.png" alt="Thompson, Rickey Gene" />
 <figcaption>Thompson, Rickey Gene</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Thompson, Rickey GeneREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707832219866.png" alt="Williams, Kwami Jerrod" />
 <figcaption>Williams, Kwami Jerrod</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Williams, Kwami JerrodREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose misd warrant and Outside warrant/NCIC hit(no photo available)NAME:&nbsp;Whitmer, Rylan JohnREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Obstructing apprehenstion or prosecution: Misdemeanor, Poss of marijuana and Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant(no photo available)NAME:&nbsp;Rothrock, Alexander JamesREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Aggravated burglary; Vehicle; to commit felony, theft, domestic violence or sexually motivated crime, Criminal Damage to Property; Value Unknown, Domestic Battery: rude physical contact(no photo available)NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Randecker, Andrea ReneeREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft, domestic violence or sexually motivated crime, Distribute certain stimulant; Unknown quantity, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500 and Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance(no photo available)NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Mickle, Candy LynnREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circumstance and Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694459272668.jpeg" alt="Metzger-Harold-Edward" />
 <figcaption>Metzger-Harold-Edward</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Metzger, Harold EdwardREQUESTED CHARGE(S):Probation Violation, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body, Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant, Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont substance(no photo available)NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Holmes, Wallace MacintoshREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft, domestic violence or sexually motivated crime, Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor, Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500 and Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance

Saline County Jail Bookings, Feb. 13

StartUp Salina is accepting applications for the 3rd Annual Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge to be held Friday, March 22, 2024 at Kansas State University-Salina. The Challenge is open to start-up businesses as well as young businesses who have been operating for three years or less and offers an opportunity to win up to $6,000 in cash prizes.

Last year’s event gave out $18,000 in prizes to the five top place finishers. One of 2023’s top prize winners, Salina Selfie Station, has utilized their funding to purchase a mobile photo booth and other equipment to kick-start their business.

“Being a part of the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge helped us shape our vision and business strategy.” Genell Heimer, co-owner of Salina Selfie Station, said, “We networked within the community and made friends with the other competitors. We are still cheering on each other’s business successes a year later!”

This year’s event is again presented by Bennington State Bank and JRI Hospitality and offers cash prizes for the top five finishers: $6,000 for 1st place, $4,000 for 2nd place, $3,000 for 3rd place, $2,000 for 4th place, and $1,000 for 5th place. Other sponsors include Network Kansas and VentureDash.

Initial application includes submitting a business plan as well as a short 2–3-minute video introducing the business idea. Deadline to submit is March 8th, 2024, at 11:59pm. There is no charge to apply, and includes residents of Saline County, as well as Dickinson, Ellsworth, McPherson, and Ottawa counties.

All applications will then be scored, and ten (10) applicants will be chosen to move on to the in-person event and pitch competition.

The pitch competition will take place on Friday, March 22nd, 2024, at Kansas State University-Salina. Competitors will be given five (5) minutes to pitch their business plan to a group of judges, like what is seen on popular shows like ‘Shark Tank.’ The judges will then have some time to ask questions and will score the businesses. At the end of the night, scores will be tabulated, and the top five finishers will be announced.

The Entrepreneurial Challenge is named in honor of the iconic Salina businessman, Charlie Walker, who founded several companies, largest among them Salina-based Blue Beacon International (known for its truck and RV washes), and the Rolling Hills Zoo near Hedville. Walker died in 2012, but his family has continued his commitment by spearheading several civic causes in the Salina community.

“We have some generous business owners in this community who are eager and interested in supporting the next generation of small business for the area,” Renee Duxler, CEO &amp; President of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce said, “This event has evolved from a group of them, to include the Walker Family, wanting to encourage entrepreneurship in a fun and educational way. This pitch competition really does achieve that.”

StartUp Salina will be offering a ‘How To Pitch Your Business’ workshop on Thursday, February 8th at Kansas State University-Salina Campus for any competitors that are interested. To register for the workshop, visit <a href="https://projectopensalina.com/training/">https://projectopensalina.com/training/.</a>

To find out more information and to apply for the challenge, visit <a href="https://goventuredash.com/">https://goventuredash.com/</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687966057978.png" alt="Salina Area Chamber Logo" />
 <figcaption>Salina Area Chamber Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedStartUp Salina is accepting applications for the 3rd Annual Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge to be held Friday, March 22, 2024 at Kansas State University-Salina. The Challenge is open to start-up businesses as well as young businesses who have been operating for three years or less and offers an opportunity to win up to $6,000 in cash prizes.Last year’s event gave out $18,000 in prizes to the five top place finishers. One of 2023’s top prize winners, Salina Selfie Station, has utilized their funding to purchase a mobile photo booth and other equipment to kick-start their business.“Being a part of the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge helped us shape our vision and business strategy.” Genell Heimer, co-owner of Salina Selfie Station, said, “We networked within the community and made friends with the other competitors. We are still cheering on each other’s business successes a year later!”This year’s event is again presented by Bennington State Bank and JRI Hospitality and offers cash prizes for the top five finishers: $6,000 for 1st place, $4,000 for 2nd place, $3,000 for 3rd place, $2,000 for 4th place, and $1,000 for 5th place. Other sponsors include Network Kansas and VentureDash.Initial application includes submitting a business plan as well as a short 2–3-minute video introducing the business idea. Deadline to submit is March 8th, 2024, at 11:59pm. There is no charge to apply, and includes residents of Saline County, as well as Dickinson, Ellsworth, McPherson, and Ottawa counties.All applications will then be scored, and ten (10) applicants will be chosen to move on to the in-person event and pitch competition.The pitch competition will take place on Friday, March 22nd, 2024, at Kansas State University-Salina. Competitors will be given five (5) minutes to pitch their business plan to a group of judges, like what is seen on popular shows like ‘Shark Tank.’ The judges will then have some time to ask questions and will score the businesses. At the end of the night, scores will be tabulated, and the top five finishers will be announced.The Entrepreneurial Challenge is named in honor of the iconic Salina businessman, Charlie Walker, who founded several companies, largest among them Salina-based Blue Beacon International (known for its truck and RV washes), and the Rolling Hills Zoo near Hedville. Walker died in 2012, but his family has continued his commitment by spearheading several civic causes in the Salina community.“We have some generous business owners in this community who are eager and interested in supporting the next generation of small business for the area,” Renee Duxler, CEO &amp; President of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce said, “This event has evolved from a group of them, to include the Walker Family, wanting to encourage entrepreneurship in a fun and educational way. This pitch competition really does achieve that.”StartUp Salina will be offering a ‘How To Pitch Your Business’ workshop on Thursday, February 8th at Kansas State University-Salina Campus for any competitors that are interested. To register for the workshop, visit <a href="https://projectopensalina.com/training/">https://projectopensalina.com/training/.</a>To find out more information and to apply for the challenge, visit <a href="https://goventuredash.com/">https://goventuredash.com/</a>

Local Start-Ups and Businesses Encouraged to Apply for 3rd Annual Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge

Above-normal temperatures are expected for both Tuesday and Wednesday with highs topping out in the upper 50s to around 60 degrees.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707751228973.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy NWS" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy NWS</figcaption>
 </figure>Above-normal temperatures are expected for both Tuesday and Wednesday with highs topping out in the upper 50s to around 60 degrees.

NWS-Wichita predicts warmer weather this week

Folk musician Tom Neilson will present his satire and social commentary through music on Friday, February 16, at 7 p.m., at Salina's Unitarian Universalist Fellowship,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/901+Beatrice+St?entry=gmail&amp;source=g">901 Beatrice St</a>.

Suggested donation is $15-20.&nbsp; For info contact 785-201-2780.

Neilson is a storyteller who weaves an autobiographical sketch of songs and stories that are both historical and contemporary. He begins with his dairy farm roots and proceeds to the Vietnam War, civil rights, liberation struggles, unions, pipelines, censorship, Raytheon, breastfeeding, oligarchy, parenting, sexuality, humanism, lost loves and whatever else there is time for.&nbsp; Tom will tell you he is just a farm boy with a guitar who likes a good ball game and human rights.

His work has resulted in over 30 awards, to include two Song Of The Year Awards from Independent Musicians; two CD of the Year awards from Just Plain Folks International and a 2015 nomination for the United Nations Nelson Mandela Award for lifetime achievement in peace and justice.

In 2017 he received the Arab American Women Association Award for his human rights work through performance art for Palestine.A member of AFM Local 1000, he has performed his music in 22 countries on five continents. As his 100-year-old mother says, he is “predictably unpredictable.”Michael Stock of WLRN, Miami, FL says “Tom does a great job of reminding people of what is really important and the power of folk music to say it.

Says another reviewer, “He is light, warm, funny, compassion-filled, heart-felt LIFE just pouring out of a guitar with a sharp wit, a seasoned experience, and a big fat uncompromising bunch of truth behind it. He's the kind of sweet &amp; playful that we need.”Performing with him is his wife and accomplice, Lynn Waldron, who provides harmonies and lyric cues. They live in Greenfield, MA.

This article was originally posted on 01.14.2024

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581646825656.png" alt="Tom Neilson" />
 <figcaption>Tom Neilson</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedFolk musician Tom Neilson will present his satire and social commentary through music on Friday, February 16, at 7 p.m., at Salina's Unitarian Universalist Fellowship,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/901+Beatrice+St?entry=gmail&amp;source=g">901 Beatrice St</a>.Suggested donation is $15-20.&nbsp; For info contact 785-201-2780.Neilson is a storyteller who weaves an autobiographical sketch of songs and stories that are both historical and contemporary. He begins with his dairy farm roots and proceeds to the Vietnam War, civil rights, liberation struggles, unions, pipelines, censorship, Raytheon, breastfeeding, oligarchy, parenting, sexuality, humanism, lost loves and whatever else there is time for.&nbsp; Tom will tell you he is just a farm boy with a guitar who likes a good ball game and human rights.His work has resulted in over 30 awards, to include two Song Of The Year Awards from Independent Musicians; two CD of the Year awards from Just Plain Folks International and a 2015 nomination for the United Nations Nelson Mandela Award for lifetime achievement in peace and justice.In 2017 he received the Arab American Women Association Award for his human rights work through performance art for Palestine.A member of AFM Local 1000, he has performed his music in 22 countries on five continents. As his 100-year-old mother says, he is “predictably unpredictable.”Michael Stock of WLRN, Miami, FL says “Tom does a great job of reminding people of what is really important and the power of folk music to say it.Says another reviewer, “He is light, warm, funny, compassion-filled, heart-felt LIFE just pouring out of a guitar with a sharp wit, a seasoned experience, and a big fat uncompromising bunch of truth behind it. He's the kind of sweet &amp; playful that we need.”Performing with him is his wife and accomplice, Lynn Waldron, who provides harmonies and lyric cues. They live in Greenfield, MA.This article was originally posted on 01.14.2024

Folk musician Tom Neilson to present satire through music at UU Fellowship in February

Submitted Alisha Jester has returned to Salina Area Technical College as the college’s first Director of Business and Community Partnerships.

The responsibilities of this new role are wide-ranging, said Salina Tech President Greg Nichols.

“A lot of it will be providing or arranging to provide customized short-term training, based on the needs of an individual business,” Nichols said.&nbsp;“Establishing apprenticeship and internship programs will also be part of it.”

One example Nichols cited was plumbing; the college doesn’t offer a plumbing&nbsp;program, and&nbsp;doesn’t have the space to provide one. But there are state and federal apprenticeship programs that could be used to train new plumbers at local plumbing businesses, leading to&nbsp;trade certifications.

Nichols stressed that the trainings offered through this program&nbsp;are not intended to be a substitute for the college’s existing full-time programs.

“A lot of it will be outside of what Salina Tech does now,” Nichols said. “It could be leadership training for people being promoted into supervisory roles –&nbsp;we’ve&nbsp;all seen a great employee get promoted and they are not great at being a boss. But&nbsp;that’s&nbsp;because they need training for that role.”

Nichols said Jester may teach some classes herself, and in other cases “she’ll bring the right people together.”

Jester&nbsp;added that&nbsp;training&nbsp;won’t&nbsp;be limited to the Salina Tech campus.

“We can come to the company to provide&nbsp;training, or&nbsp;set it up online – and we’re able to cover the entire area, not just Salina,” she said.&nbsp;

Jester is already familiar with Salina Tech, having spent four years at the college, first as a recruiter and then as instructional coordinator.

She earned bachelor’s degrees in Fine Art and Art Education from Bethany College, and a master’s degree in Instructional Design from Baker University. She taught in the International Baccalaureate program at Hutchinson High&nbsp;School, and&nbsp;has a background in curriculum building and marketing.&nbsp;

In addition, she holds a Kansas teaching license and Kansas Realtor&nbsp;license, and&nbsp;has&nbsp;a network of connections with building contractors and other industry professionals across the area.

She currently serves on the Salina Arts and&nbsp;Humanities Commission, and&nbsp;was formerly a member of the Salina Animal Control Advisory Board and Executive Director of&nbsp;BeKindSalina.

Organizations interested in learning more about how Salina Tech can help with their training needs can contact Jester at 785-309-3152 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:alisha.jester@salinatech.edu">alisha.jester@salinatech.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707743850275.jpeg" alt="Alisha Jester" />
 <figcaption>Alisha Jester</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted Alisha Jester has returned to Salina Area Technical College as the college’s first Director of Business and Community Partnerships.The responsibilities of this new role are wide-ranging, said Salina Tech President Greg Nichols.“A lot of it will be providing or arranging to provide customized short-term training, based on the needs of an individual business,” Nichols said.&nbsp;“Establishing apprenticeship and internship programs will also be part of it.”One example Nichols cited was plumbing; the college doesn’t offer a plumbing&nbsp;program, and&nbsp;doesn’t have the space to provide one. But there are state and federal apprenticeship programs that could be used to train new plumbers at local plumbing businesses, leading to&nbsp;trade certifications.Nichols stressed that the trainings offered through this program&nbsp;are not intended to be a substitute for the college’s existing full-time programs.“A lot of it will be outside of what Salina Tech does now,” Nichols said. “It could be leadership training for people being promoted into supervisory roles –&nbsp;we’ve&nbsp;all seen a great employee get promoted and they are not great at being a boss. But&nbsp;that’s&nbsp;because they need training for that role.”Nichols said Jester may teach some classes herself, and in other cases “she’ll bring the right people together.”Jester&nbsp;added that&nbsp;training&nbsp;won’t&nbsp;be limited to the Salina Tech campus.“We can come to the company to provide&nbsp;training, or&nbsp;set it up online – and we’re able to cover the entire area, not just Salina,” she said.&nbsp;Jester is already familiar with Salina Tech, having spent four years at the college, first as a recruiter and then as instructional coordinator.She earned bachelor’s degrees in Fine Art and Art Education from Bethany College, and a master’s degree in Instructional Design from Baker University. She taught in the International Baccalaureate program at Hutchinson High&nbsp;School, and&nbsp;has a background in curriculum building and marketing.&nbsp;In addition, she holds a Kansas teaching license and Kansas Realtor&nbsp;license, and&nbsp;has&nbsp;a network of connections with building contractors and other industry professionals across the area.She currently serves on the Salina Arts and&nbsp;Humanities Commission, and&nbsp;was formerly a member of the Salina Animal Control Advisory Board and Executive Director of&nbsp;BeKindSalina.Organizations interested in learning more about how Salina Tech can help with their training needs can contact Jester at 785-309-3152 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:alisha.jester@salinatech.edu">alisha.jester@salinatech.edu</a>.

Salina Tech creates new position to help area businesses

NAME:&nbsp;Bogue,Joshua AnthonyREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Driving While Suspended

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption

NAME:&nbsp;Perez Aguilar,Francisco Manuel

Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500

Criminal trespass; Property as posted per KSA 32-1013

Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500

Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance

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/2024/2/1707741748366.jpeg" alt="Bogue,Joshua Anthony" />
 <figcaption>Bogue,Joshua Anthony</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Bogue,Joshua AnthonyREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707741866772.jpeg" alt=" Bott,Collin Ray" />
 <figcaption> Bott,Collin Ray</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Bott,Collin RayREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707741910286.jpeg" alt="Huehl,Terry Lynn" />
 <figcaption>Huehl,Terry Lynn</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Huehl,Terry LynnREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Driving While Suspended<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707741960710.jpeg" alt=" Most,Brittanie Noelle" />
 <figcaption> Most,Brittanie Noelle</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Most,Brittanie NoelleREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707742007509.jpeg" alt="Paxson,Tyler Nelson" />
 <figcaption>Paxson,Tyler Nelson</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Paxson,Tyler NelsonREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation ViolationDriving While Suspended<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707742077014.jpeg" alt=" Perez Aguilar,Francisco Manuel" />
 <figcaption> Perez Aguilar,Francisco Manuel</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Perez Aguilar,Francisco ManuelREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human bodyOperate a MV w/o a valid licensePoss of marijuana<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707742138481.jpeg" alt=" Radillo,Miguel Angel" />
 <figcaption> Radillo,Miguel Angel</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Radillo,Miguel AngelREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human bodyDriving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severityPoss of marijuana<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707742200708.jpeg" alt="Roda,Kashe Micheal" />
 <figcaption>Roda,Kashe Micheal</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Roda,Kashe MichealREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human bodyPoss of marijuana<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707742248336.jpeg" alt=" Shields,Amanda Jo" />
 <figcaption> Shields,Amanda Jo</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Shields,Amanda JoREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707742295229.jpeg" alt="Swanigan,Alisha Nicole" />
 <figcaption>Swanigan,Alisha Nicole</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:Swanigan,Alisha NicoleREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal trespass; Property as posted per KSA 32-1013Probation ViolationFailure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707742356456.jpeg" alt="Trocheck,Jonathon Blake" />
 <figcaption>Trocheck,Jonathon Blake</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Trocheck,Jonathon BlakeREQUESTED CHARGE(S):Failure to appearUse/poss drug paraphernalian/human bodyPoss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707742403805.jpeg" alt=" Vallejo,Antonio Wayne" />
 <figcaption> Vallejo,Antonio Wayne</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Vallejo,Antonio WayneREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appearTheft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500Viol protection order; Pre-trial order<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688562049999.png" alt="Chaney,Chris Anthony " />
 <figcaption>Chaney,Chris Anthony </figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Chaney,Chris AnthonyREQUESTED CHARGE(S):Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance

Saline County Jail Bookings, Feb. 12

The Salina City Commission meeting will take place in–person at the City/County Building in Room 107 today at 4 p.m.&nbsp; and via Zoom.&nbsp;

Meetings can be viewed at the City of Salina YouTube channel,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.&nbsp;

To participate via Zoom, citizens will need to use the following link:&nbsp;<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587" target="_blank">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587</a>.&nbsp;

The meeting can also be accessed by phone at&nbsp;1-346-248-7799. Enter Meeting ID: 892 7598 4587 when prompted.&nbsp;

If citizens wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens attending via Zoom must raise their hand so that the meeting host can allow them to speak. Those who attend the in-person meeting will have the opportunity to speak at the podium.&nbsp; Awards and Proclamations

Recognition of the week of February 18 through February 24, 2024 as Engineers Week. Libby Lorenson, P.E, President of the Smoky Valley Chapter of Professional Engineers will read the proclamation.

&nbsp;Public Hearings&nbsp;

Salina Baseball Enterprises Agreement Amendment-&nbsp;a Public Hearing confirming the Naming Initiatives brought forth by Salina Baseball Enterprises for two facilities located at Berkley Family&nbsp;Recreational Area.

Consider the approval of Resolution No. 24-8188 ratifying the honorary naming of the field known as Tower Field as "Roger Wilbur Field" and for the philanthropic naming of the field currently named Roger Wilbur Field as "Pestinger Family Stadium" subject to the precondition of the certification of available funding for Phase One renovations to the current "Roger Wilbur Field" in accordance with the Municipal Facility Naming Guidelines&nbsp;Consider the approval to authorize the Mayor to Execute a First Amendment to the October 9, 2023 Agreement with Salina Baseball Enterprises relating to Wilbur&nbsp;Field and James Matson Field.

(5.1) Approve the minutes of the meeting of January 22, 2024.

 (5.2) Approve Resolution No. 24-8189 updating the City of Salina Personnel Manual

(5.3) Consider change orders no. 2 and 3 totaling $81,478.92 with T&amp;R Construction, Inc. for Project No. 20029, Centennial ditch water line adjustments and sewer line protection, increasing the previous project authorization by $27,976.96 to $1,450,201.17 and authorizing the City Manager to execute the change orders.

(5.4) Consider awarding the bid for Project No. 24005, 2024 Chip Seal, to Circle C Construction of Goddard in the amount of $327,872.88 with a $16,393.64 (5%) construction contingency for a total project authorization not to exceed $344,266.52 and authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract with Circle C Construction of Goddard upon fulfillment of all prerequisites under the bid documents.

(5.5) Consider awarding the bid for Project No. 24004, 2024 Pavement Sealing to Circle C Construction of Goddard. Kansas in the amount of $498,544.87 with a $49,854.49 (10%) construction contingency for a total project authorization not to exceed $548,399.36 and authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract with Circle C Construction of Goddard, Kansas upon fulfillment of all prerequisites under the bid documents.

(5.6) Approve Resolution No. 24-8190 appointing a member of the Planning Commission to serve on the Heritage Commission.

(5.7) Authorize rebuild of landfill compactor Unit #1842 through Foley's Equipment (Salina)
for an amount not to exceed $595,000.00.

(5.8) Approve Resolution No. 24-8082 authorizing the Mayor to sign a First Addendum to the Memorandum of Understanding among the City of Salina, Saline County, and Central Kansas Mental Health Center relating to the Mental Health Co-Responder Program.

(6.1) Approve Ordinance No. 24-11194 or No. 24-11195 modifying existing City of Salina code
sections regarding keeping of chickens within City limits. Ordinance No. 24-11194 incorporates directions from the City Commission. Ordinance No. 24-11195 incorporates further recommendations by the Animal Control Advisory and Appeals Board.

 (6.2) Authorize the purchase of a fire apparatus from Pierce Manufacturing through Conrad Fire
Equipment in the amount of $8,939,831.13 with a 5% contingency.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016826196.jpeg" alt="Snow blankets the Salina City and Saline County building during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Snow blankets the Salina City and Saline County building during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe Salina City Commission meeting will take place in–person at the City/County Building in Room 107 today at 4 p.m.&nbsp; and via Zoom.&nbsp;Meetings can be viewed at the City of Salina YouTube channel,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.&nbsp;To participate via Zoom, citizens will need to use the following link:&nbsp;<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587" target="_blank">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587</a>.&nbsp;The meeting can also be accessed by phone at&nbsp;1-346-248-7799. Enter Meeting ID: 892 7598 4587 when prompted.&nbsp;If citizens wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens attending via Zoom must raise their hand so that the meeting host can allow them to speak. Those who attend the in-person meeting will have the opportunity to speak at the podium.&nbsp; Awards and Proclamations Recognition of the week of February 18 through February 24, 2024 as Engineers Week. Libby Lorenson, P.E, President of the Smoky Valley Chapter of Professional Engineers will read the proclamation. &nbsp;Public Hearings&nbsp;Salina Baseball Enterprises Agreement Amendment-&nbsp;a Public Hearing confirming the Naming Initiatives brought forth by Salina Baseball Enterprises for two facilities located at Berkley Family&nbsp;Recreational Area.Consider the approval of Resolution No. 24-8188 ratifying the honorary naming of the field known as Tower Field as "Roger Wilbur Field" and for the philanthropic naming of the field currently named Roger Wilbur Field as "Pestinger Family Stadium" subject to the precondition of the certification of available funding for Phase One renovations to the current "Roger Wilbur Field" in accordance with the Municipal Facility Naming Guidelines&nbsp;Consider the approval to authorize the Mayor to Execute a First Amendment to the October 9, 2023 Agreement with Salina Baseball Enterprises relating to Wilbur&nbsp;Field and James Matson Field. Consent Agenda (5.1) Approve the minutes of the meeting of January 22, 2024. (5.2) Approve Resolution No. 24-8189 updating the City of Salina Personnel Manual(5.3) Consider change orders no. 2 and 3 totaling $81,478.92 with T&amp;R Construction, Inc. for Project No. 20029, Centennial ditch water line adjustments and sewer line protection, increasing the previous project authorization by $27,976.96 to $1,450,201.17 and authorizing the City Manager to execute the change orders.(5.4) Consider awarding the bid for Project No. 24005, 2024 Chip Seal, to Circle C Construction of Goddard in the amount of $327,872.88 with a $16,393.64 (5%) construction contingency for a total project authorization not to exceed $344,266.52 and authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract with Circle C Construction of Goddard upon fulfillment of all prerequisites under the bid documents.(5.5) Consider awarding the bid for Project No. 24004, 2024 Pavement Sealing to Circle C Construction of Goddard. Kansas in the amount of $498,544.87 with a $49,854.49 (10%) construction contingency for a total project authorization not to exceed $548,399.36 and authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract with Circle C Construction of Goddard, Kansas upon fulfillment of all prerequisites under the bid documents.(5.6) Approve Resolution No. 24-8190 appointing a member of the Planning Commission to serve on the Heritage Commission.(5.7) Authorize rebuild of landfill compactor Unit #1842 through Foley's Equipment (Salina)
for an amount not to exceed $595,000.00.(5.8) Approve Resolution No. 24-8082 authorizing the Mayor to sign a First Addendum to the Memorandum of Understanding among the City of Salina, Saline County, and Central Kansas Mental Health Center relating to the Mental Health Co-Responder Program. Administration (6.1) Approve Ordinance No. 24-11194 or No. 24-11195 modifying existing City of Salina code
sections regarding keeping of chickens within City limits. Ordinance No. 24-11194 incorporates directions from the City Commission. Ordinance No. 24-11195 incorporates further recommendations by the Animal Control Advisory and Appeals Board. (6.2) Authorize the purchase of a fire apparatus from Pierce Manufacturing through Conrad Fire
Equipment in the amount of $8,939,831.13 with a 5% contingency.

Chickens, proclamation, public hearing on Salina City Comm. agenda

 K-State Research and Extension news service

A<a href="https://www.kansasforests.org/"> Kansas Forest Service</a> official is encouraging homeowners to fireproof their homes in advance of potential wildfires in the state this year.

Eric Ward, the assistant fire manager for the state’s forest service, said actions taken ahead of time can be the difference between saving or losing a home and surrounding structures.

“During a major fire, one of the challenges is that there are not enough fire trucks for every home,” Ward said. “It’s just a given that if there’s a major fire coming, there will not be a fire truck at your house. There just aren’t enough in any community.”

Ward said the Kansas Forest Service has a Wildfire Risk <a href="https://kansaswildfirerisk.org/">Assessment portal </a>available online for free. The tool allows homeowners to enter their home address – or any other specific area they want to protect – and receive an on-screen assessment of the fire risk in that area.

City officials – public safety professionals, emergency managers and community planners among them – can use the Wildfire Risk Assessment tool to produce a multi-page report that assesses fire danger for a wider area, such as an entire community.

Regardless of one’s risk, Ward said there are many steps that homeowners can take to safeguard their property and the lives of their family, including:

	•	Move firewood away from the side of the house.

	•	Clean roofs and gutters of dead leaves, debris and pine needles.

	•	Replace or repair loose or missing shingles on the roof.

	•	Prune tree branches so they are at least 10 feet from the home’s roof.

	•	Keep lawns, native grasses and wildflowers at a height of less than four inches.

	•	Keep trailers, recreational vehicles, storage sheds and other combustible structures more than 30 feet away from the home.

A more detailed list of homeowner safeguards is available in the Kansas Forest Service publication, Ready, Set, Go! My Personal Wildland Fire Action Plan (<a href="https://www.kansasforests.org/fire_management/2023%20Ready%20Set%20Go.pdf">https://www.kansasforests.org/fire_management/2023%20Ready%20Set%20Go.pdf</a>).

Chip Redmond, a K-State meteorologist and director of a network of 86 weather stations known as the Kansas Mesonet, said all landowners can help reduce the potential of wildfires by paying attention to forecasts available online via <a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/fire/danger">a fire danger tool.</a>

“It’s called the Kansas Fire Danger Forecast, and what we’ve done is take all the real-time data we get from our 86 weather stations to build a historical record,” Redmond said. “That information goes to the U.S. Forest Service’s wildfire information management system, which then calculates a fire danger rating through a burning index, which looks at the flammability, wind and humidity component to fuels (such as grasses) in a given area.”

The forecast, Redmond adds, is typically reported for the next seven days.

“You want to look at fire concerns in the future,” he said. “The fire danger of the day you’re going to burn may be conducive for that day…but you also need to check those burns in the days after. The forecasts will help you understand whether you need to check a little more often because maybe the winds are going to pick up.”

Often, Redmond said, a fire could re-ignite four or five days after the original burn.

Kansas Wildfire Awareness Week is Feb. 12-16. More information on safeguarding property from wildfire is available online from the 

Kansas Forest Service (https://www.kansasforests.org/)

local extension offices in Kansas (https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations/)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707739648998.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>By PAT MELGARES K-State Research and Extension news serviceA<a href="https://www.kansasforests.org/"> Kansas Forest Service</a> official is encouraging homeowners to fireproof their homes in advance of potential wildfires in the state this year.Eric Ward, the assistant fire manager for the state’s forest service, said actions taken ahead of time can be the difference between saving or losing a home and surrounding structures.“During a major fire, one of the challenges is that there are not enough fire trucks for every home,” Ward said. “It’s just a given that if there’s a major fire coming, there will not be a fire truck at your house. There just aren’t enough in any community.”Ward said the Kansas Forest Service has a Wildfire Risk <a href="https://kansaswildfirerisk.org/">Assessment portal </a>available online for free. The tool allows homeowners to enter their home address – or any other specific area they want to protect – and receive an on-screen assessment of the fire risk in that area.City officials – public safety professionals, emergency managers and community planners among them – can use the Wildfire Risk Assessment tool to produce a multi-page report that assesses fire danger for a wider area, such as an entire community.Regardless of one’s risk, Ward said there are many steps that homeowners can take to safeguard their property and the lives of their family, including:	•	Move firewood away from the side of the house.	•	Clean roofs and gutters of dead leaves, debris and pine needles.	•	Replace or repair loose or missing shingles on the roof.	•	Prune tree branches so they are at least 10 feet from the home’s roof.	•	Keep lawns, native grasses and wildflowers at a height of less than four inches.	•	Keep trailers, recreational vehicles, storage sheds and other combustible structures more than 30 feet away from the home.A more detailed list of homeowner safeguards is available in the Kansas Forest Service publication, Ready, Set, Go! My Personal Wildland Fire Action Plan (<a href="https://www.kansasforests.org/fire_management/2023%20Ready%20Set%20Go.pdf">https://www.kansasforests.org/fire_management/2023%20Ready%20Set%20Go.pdf</a>).Chip Redmond, a K-State meteorologist and director of a network of 86 weather stations known as the Kansas Mesonet, said all landowners can help reduce the potential of wildfires by paying attention to forecasts available online via <a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/fire/danger">a fire danger tool.</a>“It’s called the Kansas Fire Danger Forecast, and what we’ve done is take all the real-time data we get from our 86 weather stations to build a historical record,” Redmond said. “That information goes to the U.S. Forest Service’s wildfire information management system, which then calculates a fire danger rating through a burning index, which looks at the flammability, wind and humidity component to fuels (such as grasses) in a given area.”The forecast, Redmond adds, is typically reported for the next seven days.“You want to look at fire concerns in the future,” he said. “The fire danger of the day you’re going to burn may be conducive for that day…but you also need to check those burns in the days after. The forecasts will help you understand whether you need to check a little more often because maybe the winds are going to pick up.”Often, Redmond said, a fire could re-ignite four or five days after the original burn.Kansas Wildfire Awareness Week is Feb. 12-16. More information on safeguarding property from wildfire is available online from the Kansas Forest Service (https://www.kansasforests.org/), and from local extension offices in Kansas (https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations/)

State forest official urges Kansans to safeguard their homes from fire

On Feb. 12, 1983, composer and pianist Eubie Blake, who wrote such songs as “I’m Just Wild About Harry” and “Memories of You,” died in Brooklyn, New York, at 96.

In 1554, Lady Jane Grey, who had claimed the throne of England for nine days, and her husband, Guildford Dudley, were beheaded after being condemned for high treason.

In 1809, Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, was born in a log cabin in Hardin (now LaRue) County, Kentucky.

In 1909, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the NAACP, was founded.

In 1912, Pu Yi, the last emperor of China, abdicated, marking the end of the Qing Dynasty.

In 1914, groundbreaking took place for the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. (A year later on this date, the cornerstone was laid.)

In 1973, Operation Homecoming began as the first release of American prisoners of war from the Vietnam conflict took place.

In 1999, the Senate voted to acquit President Bill Clinton of perjury and obstruction of justice.

In 2000, Charles M. Schulz, creator of the “Peanuts” comic strip, died in Santa Rosa, California, at age 77.

In 2002, former Yugoslav president Slobodan Milosevic went on trial in The Hague, accused of war crimes (he died in 2006 before the trial could conclude).

In 2006, figure skater Michelle Kwan effectively retired from competition as she withdrew from the Turin Olympics due to injury (she was replaced on the U.S. team by Emily Hughes).

In 2012, Adele emerged as the top winner at the Grammy Awards, winning six trophies, including record and song of the year for “Rolling in the Deep” and album of the year for “21″, in a ceremony shadowed by the death of Whitney Houston the day before.

In 2013, the manhunt for a rogue ex-Los Angeles cop Christopher Dorner, who was seeking revenge for his firing, came to an end with his apparent suicide in a mountain cabin following a gunbattle with law enforcement; authorities blamed him for killing four people, including two officers.

In 2017, at the Grammy Awards, Adele took home all five awards she was nominated for, including album of the year for “25” as well as record and song of the year for “Hello.”

In 2019, Mexico’s most notorious drug lord,<a href="https://apnews.com/article/53fb11c843e34d1a88e3185eef9d277e">Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman, was convicted in New York</a>&nbsp;of running an industrial-scale smuggling operation. (Guzman is serving a life sentence at the federal supermax prison facility in Florence, Colorado.)

In 2021, lawyers for Donald Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-impeachment-trial-update-2-12-2021-f831653160706c49987c9d33228ccbbb">defended him against impeachmen</a>t at his Senate trial by accusing Democrats of waging a campaign of “hatred” against the former president and manipulating his words in the lead-up to the deadly siege of the U.S. Capitol.

In 2023,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-patrick-mahomes-aabc70ee830c3534cf26f57f6756aaf3">Patrick Mahomes was the MVP</a>&nbsp;as the Kansas City Chiefs beat the Philadelphia Eagles to win their third NFL championship in four years at Super Bowl LVII in Glendale, Arizona.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707738875994.jpeg" alt="Veteran jazz pianist Eubie Blake performs during a suprise party for his 93rd birthday at New York’s Waldorf Astoria Hotel on Feb. 7, 1976. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)" />
 <figcaption>Veteran jazz pianist Eubie Blake performs during a suprise party for his 93rd birthday at New York’s Waldorf Astoria Hotel on Feb. 7, 1976. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Today in History:</h2>On Feb. 12, 1983, composer and pianist Eubie Blake, who wrote such songs as “I’m Just Wild About Harry” and “Memories of You,” died in Brooklyn, New York, at 96.<h2>On this date:</h2>In 1554, Lady Jane Grey, who had claimed the throne of England for nine days, and her husband, Guildford Dudley, were beheaded after being condemned for high treason.In 1809, Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, was born in a log cabin in Hardin (now LaRue) County, Kentucky.In 1909, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the NAACP, was founded.In 1912, Pu Yi, the last emperor of China, abdicated, marking the end of the Qing Dynasty.In 1914, groundbreaking took place for the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. (A year later on this date, the cornerstone was laid.)In 1973, Operation Homecoming began as the first release of American prisoners of war from the Vietnam conflict took place.In 1999, the Senate voted to acquit President Bill Clinton of perjury and obstruction of justice.In 2000, Charles M. Schulz, creator of the “Peanuts” comic strip, died in Santa Rosa, California, at age 77.In 2002, former Yugoslav president Slobodan Milosevic went on trial in The Hague, accused of war crimes (he died in 2006 before the trial could conclude).In 2006, figure skater Michelle Kwan effectively retired from competition as she withdrew from the Turin Olympics due to injury (she was replaced on the U.S. team by Emily Hughes).In 2012, Adele emerged as the top winner at the Grammy Awards, winning six trophies, including record and song of the year for “Rolling in the Deep” and album of the year for “21″, in a ceremony shadowed by the death of Whitney Houston the day before.In 2013, the manhunt for a rogue ex-Los Angeles cop Christopher Dorner, who was seeking revenge for his firing, came to an end with his apparent suicide in a mountain cabin following a gunbattle with law enforcement; authorities blamed him for killing four people, including two officers.In 2017, at the Grammy Awards, Adele took home all five awards she was nominated for, including album of the year for “25” as well as record and song of the year for “Hello.”In 2019, Mexico’s most notorious drug lord,<a href="https://apnews.com/article/53fb11c843e34d1a88e3185eef9d277e">Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman, was convicted in New York</a>&nbsp;of running an industrial-scale smuggling operation. (Guzman is serving a life sentence at the federal supermax prison facility in Florence, Colorado.)In 2021, lawyers for Donald Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-impeachment-trial-update-2-12-2021-f831653160706c49987c9d33228ccbbb">defended him against impeachmen</a>t at his Senate trial by accusing Democrats of waging a campaign of “hatred” against the former president and manipulating his words in the lead-up to the deadly siege of the U.S. Capitol.In 2023,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-patrick-mahomes-aabc70ee830c3534cf26f57f6756aaf3">Patrick Mahomes was the MVP</a>&nbsp;as the Kansas City Chiefs beat the Philadelphia Eagles to win their third NFL championship in four years at Super Bowl LVII in Glendale, Arizona.

Today in History, Feb. 12

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

With a bursting-at-the-seams animal shelter and discontent for some in the Salina community, a small group of residents challenged the Salina City Commission to make changes.

"Two-year-old Lilo, taken from Tanya, a legally blind woman, on 9/10/2022, held for 10 months and euthanized on July 6, 2023, because she wasn't placeable. She was already in a loving home and had done nothing wrong," said Debrah Corrales, a Salina resident, to commissioners. "It is time to stop putting the deeds of other dogs on the lives of good dogs based on their appearance."

Lilo was a pit bull type dog, a type of dog banned in the city since 2004 because of a severe attack on a young child by two canines identified as pit bulls.

Since then, Salina has continued the ban for two decades, causing the city to spend thousands of dollars on dogs that often end up euthanized.&nbsp;

This wasn't the first time Corrales stood before the City Commission with this statement — for the last decade, Corrales has attended multiple Salina City Commission meetings to plead for most of these dogs' lives.

Corrales said the primary reason behind her activism is saving dogs' lives from the shelter and promoting good ownership of all animals. Another aspect she spreads awareness about too is how much cash the Salina Animal Shelter spends on DNA testing due to the ban.

"They have spent over $7,000 DNA'ing these dogs and then killing them or giving them away," Corrales said.

Corrales, Rose Base, the previous shelter director, Michelle Timson, an Ottawa County resident, and Laura Currie, a Salina resident, spoke to the commission recently, renewing the push this year to repeal the legislation.

On Monday, Jan. 22, the small group attended the meeting and shared an update from the shelter, complete with recent euthanasia and transfers.

Before any members spoke to the commission, Salina Mayor Bill Longbine prefaced the conversation with a statement for the city commissioners.

"Our shelter is full of dogs that are not adoptable, and anyway you look at it, we have no plan going forward, and it's not sustainable to just hold these dogs forever," Longbine said during the meeting. "I think as a commission, this is something we need to take on this year, sooner rather than later."

After Longbine finished his statement to the commission, Timson stood up and spoke first, setting up some biology facts about domesticated dogs.

According to the City of Salina, dog breeds banned within the city include the American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, and any other breed with a predominant appearance and characteristics of pit bull-type dogs.

Michelle Timson, a Salina resident, said cities often ban pit bull-type breeds due to a "locking jaw" and an incredible bite force, but in reality, pit bull breeds have no unique anatomy that allows them to lock on once they bite.

"Powerful breeds are measured by the psi of their bite force," Timson said to commissioners. "The Dutch shepherd is 224 psi; the American pit bull is 235; the Australian shepherd, for Mayor Longbine, is 238. The Rottweiler is 328, a wolf dog is 400, a mastiff is 556, a cane corso is 700, and a Kangal Anatolian is 743. So the pit bull is obviously in the lower end — any dog can be a dangerous dog."

Timson shared her experience with dogs, as she grooms pets just north of Saline County. In her experience, any unsocialized, abused or neglected dog can be an aggressive animal, and that does not depend on breed but rather the owners.

She found another issue BSL causes for the larger Salina community — dumped pets.

"I have recently found another pit bull that has been dumped in Ottawa County close to my home this last week," Timson said. "This makes two pit bulls within a year and a half that I've seen dumped. So how many more out there that have been disregarded like trash outside of the county?"

Timson pushed the commission to begin holding owners responsible rather than the dog since dogs become aggressive due to mishandling or abuse.

LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/search?search=listen">🎙King in the Community: 'You're a Good Man Charlie Brown the Musical'</a>

Base also spoke to commissioners during the meeting, telling commissioners her experience with the animal shelter and how it causes challenges for the service.

"I really think it's time that it gets repealed — our animal shelter is in a dire crisis. It has been for some time now," Base said to commissioners. "I know there's been talk about building extra kennels, but that isn't the answer. Holding these dogs, it's just not the answer. We need to get these animals out of the shelter and treat them on a case-by-case basis."

A member of the Salinans against BSL group, Tyler Colt Sartain, is a delivery driver in Saline County, and he often sees dogs across the county when on his delivery route.

Sartain said he had been bitten on deliveries twice, and both were from German shepherds.

One aspect Sartain said matters to him is the loss of personal freedom when living in a city with BSL restrictions and that it isn't effective in keeping pit bull breeds out of Salina.

"These dogs are banned right now, but guess what? There are thousands of them in town right now, and if they were really that bad of a breed, we'd be seeing attacks on the news every night," Sartain said. "It's all fear-mongering and bad information — people really need to get their facts checked and allow people to have their freedoms."

In 2021, Abilene repealed its ban on the breed, and with effective animal control strategies before 2021, yearly bite rates have decreased since 2018.

According to Michael Ragsdale, the Abilene Police Department community services officer, in 2018, Abilene reported 33 dog bites, 2019 had 20, 2020 had 17, 2021 had 13, 2022 had 10, and 2023 increased slightly with 15 bites.

"Each vicious or nuisance case is different, and while we charge out these offenses the same, the solutions to prevent future issues can be unique to the situation," Ragsdale said. "Police department staff work with the city prosecutor and animal owner to reach an outcome that is suitable to help ensure the safety of our community. This could be requiring the dog to wear a muzzle when outside, fencing repairs, additional stop gaps, having the dog rehomed, or, in extreme situations, the dog euthanized."

The most significant threat to animal control staff is the unknown factors of each call, with the unpredictability of animals and their owners causing the most challenges.

Other towns like Overland Park and Junction City have also repealed the ban in recent years, with many citing the same issues that Salina currently faces with BSL in place.

Base, Timson, and Corrales agreed that repealing the ban would lead to more effective animal management and efficient shelter space for all rescued animals.

Some in the community still feel like a ban is necessary for safety, though, and Longbine said he has heard both sides from residents and city staff.

"I felt there was not support from the Commission to make changes, nor is there support from the public," Longbine said. "What's happening now is just not sustainable, and we need to come up with something."

The Salina Animal Shelter is a no-kill shelter, but in January 2024, Corrales shared that through requested documents, she found that six dogs were euthanized in January, and five were identified as pit bulls.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707346612592.jpeg" alt="Salina resident Debrah Corrales stands in front of the Salina City Commission on Monday, Jan. 22, to request commissioners look into the Breed Specific Legislation on pit bulls once more at the Saline County/City of Salina building. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina resident Debrah Corrales stands in front of the Salina City Commission on Monday, Jan. 22, to request commissioners look into the Breed Specific Legislation on pit bulls once more at the Saline County/City of Salina building. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostWith a bursting-at-the-seams animal shelter and discontent for some in the Salina community, a small group of residents challenged the Salina City Commission to make changes."Two-year-old Lilo, taken from Tanya, a legally blind woman, on 9/10/2022, held for 10 months and euthanized on July 6, 2023, because she wasn't placeable. She was already in a loving home and had done nothing wrong," said Debrah Corrales, a Salina resident, to commissioners. "It is time to stop putting the deeds of other dogs on the lives of good dogs based on their appearance."Lilo was a pit bull type dog, a type of dog banned in the city since 2004 because of a severe attack on a young child by two canines identified as pit bulls.Since then, Salina has continued the ban for two decades, causing the city to spend thousands of dollars on dogs that often end up euthanized.&nbsp;This wasn't the first time Corrales stood before the City Commission with this statement — for the last decade, Corrales has attended multiple Salina City Commission meetings to plead for most of these dogs' lives.Corrales said the primary reason behind her activism is saving dogs' lives from the shelter and promoting good ownership of all animals. Another aspect she spreads awareness about too is how much cash the Salina Animal Shelter spends on DNA testing due to the ban."They have spent over $7,000 DNA'ing these dogs and then killing them or giving them away," Corrales said.Corrales, Rose Base, the previous shelter director, Michelle Timson, an Ottawa County resident, and Laura Currie, a Salina resident, spoke to the commission recently, renewing the push this year to repeal the legislation.On Monday, Jan. 22, the small group attended the meeting and shared an update from the shelter, complete with recent euthanasia and transfers.<h2>The effort to repeal BSL</h2>Before any members spoke to the commission, Salina Mayor Bill Longbine prefaced the conversation with a statement for the city commissioners."Our shelter is full of dogs that are not adoptable, and anyway you look at it, we have no plan going forward, and it's not sustainable to just hold these dogs forever," Longbine said during the meeting. "I think as a commission, this is something we need to take on this year, sooner rather than later."After Longbine finished his statement to the commission, Timson stood up and spoke first, setting up some biology facts about domesticated dogs.According to the City of Salina, dog breeds banned within the city include the American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, and any other breed with a predominant appearance and characteristics of pit bull-type dogs.Michelle Timson, a Salina resident, said cities often ban pit bull-type breeds due to a "locking jaw" and an incredible bite force, but in reality, pit bull breeds have no unique anatomy that allows them to lock on once they bite."Powerful breeds are measured by the psi of their bite force," Timson said to commissioners. "The Dutch shepherd is 224 psi; the American pit bull is 235; the Australian shepherd, for Mayor Longbine, is 238. The Rottweiler is 328, a wolf dog is 400, a mastiff is 556, a cane corso is 700, and a Kangal Anatolian is 743. So the pit bull is obviously in the lower end — any dog can be a dangerous dog."Timson shared her experience with dogs, as she grooms pets just north of Saline County. In her experience, any unsocialized, abused or neglected dog can be an aggressive animal, and that does not depend on breed but rather the owners.She found another issue BSL causes for the larger Salina community — dumped pets."I have recently found another pit bull that has been dumped in Ottawa County close to my home this last week," Timson said. "This makes two pit bulls within a year and a half that I've seen dumped. So how many more out there that have been disregarded like trash outside of the county?"Timson pushed the commission to begin holding owners responsible rather than the dog since dogs become aggressive due to mishandling or abuse.LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/search?search=listen">🎙King in the Community: 'You're a Good Man Charlie Brown the Musical'</a>Base also spoke to commissioners during the meeting, telling commissioners her experience with the animal shelter and how it causes challenges for the service."I really think it's time that it gets repealed — our animal shelter is in a dire crisis. It has been for some time now," Base said to commissioners. "I know there's been talk about building extra kennels, but that isn't the answer. Holding these dogs, it's just not the answer. We need to get these animals out of the shelter and treat them on a case-by-case basis."A member of the Salinans against BSL group, Tyler Colt Sartain, is a delivery driver in Saline County, and he often sees dogs across the county when on his delivery route.Sartain said he had been bitten on deliveries twice, and both were from German shepherds.One aspect Sartain said matters to him is the loss of personal freedom when living in a city with BSL restrictions and that it isn't effective in keeping pit bull breeds out of Salina."These dogs are banned right now, but guess what? There are thousands of them in town right now, and if they were really that bad of a breed, we'd be seeing attacks on the news every night," Sartain said. "It's all fear-mongering and bad information — people really need to get their facts checked and allow people to have their freedoms."<h2>What does repealing the ban look like?</h2>In 2021, Abilene repealed its ban on the breed, and with effective animal control strategies before 2021, yearly bite rates have decreased since 2018.According to Michael Ragsdale, the Abilene Police Department community services officer, in 2018, Abilene reported 33 dog bites, 2019 had 20, 2020 had 17, 2021 had 13, 2022 had 10, and 2023 increased slightly with 15 bites."Each vicious or nuisance case is different, and while we charge out these offenses the same, the solutions to prevent future issues can be unique to the situation," Ragsdale said. "Police department staff work with the city prosecutor and animal owner to reach an outcome that is suitable to help ensure the safety of our community. This could be requiring the dog to wear a muzzle when outside, fencing repairs, additional stop gaps, having the dog rehomed, or, in extreme situations, the dog euthanized."The most significant threat to animal control staff is the unknown factors of each call, with the unpredictability of animals and their owners causing the most challenges.Other towns like Overland Park and Junction City have also repealed the ban in recent years, with many citing the same issues that Salina currently faces with BSL in place.Base, Timson, and Corrales agreed that repealing the ban would lead to more effective animal management and efficient shelter space for all rescued animals.Some in the community still feel like a ban is necessary for safety, though, and Longbine said he has heard both sides from residents and city staff."I felt there was not support from the Commission to make changes, nor is there support from the public," Longbine said. "What's happening now is just not sustainable, and we need to come up with something."The Salina Animal Shelter is a no-kill shelter, but in January 2024, Corrales shared that through requested documents, she found that six dogs were euthanized in January, and five were identified as pit bulls.

Salinans Against BSL group requests change for an over-capacity Animal Shelter

<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2024-02-02/midwest-brain-drain-persists-and-job-opportunity-is-the-main-driver">By A</a>NNA POPE <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2024-02-02/midwest-brain-drain-persists-and-job-opportunity-is-the-main-driver">Harvest Public Media</a>

“Brain drain,” the migration of people with a higher education degree, remains an issue in most of the Midwest and Great Plains. Recent U.S. Census data shows many states are losing some of their most educated residents.

Anastasiya Miller moved 1,300 miles away to Tampa, Fla., from her hometown this past year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707512697753.png" alt="Many Midwestern and Great Plains states lost more college-educated residents than they attracted in 2022. That's part of a continuing trend. Photo courtesy of&nbsp;U.S. Department Of Education" />
 <figcaption>Many Midwestern and Great Plains states lost more college-educated residents than they attracted in 2022. That's part of a continuing trend. Photo courtesy of&nbsp;U.S. Department Of Education</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2024-02-02/midwest-brain-drain-persists-and-job-opportunity-is-the-main-driver">By A</a>NNA POPE <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2024-02-02/midwest-brain-drain-persists-and-job-opportunity-is-the-main-driver">Harvest Public Media</a><h2>“Brain drain,” the migration of people with a higher education degree, remains an issue in most of the Midwest and Great Plains. Recent U.S. Census data shows many states are losing some of their most educated residents.</h2>Anastasiya Miller moved 1,300 miles away to Tampa, Fla., from her hometown this past year.“I was excited,” Miller said. “I knew that I wanted to move out of Oklahoma. I had lived in Colorado for a summer prior to moving to Tampa.”Miller grew up on the outskirts of Edmond, Okla., and graduated with her bachelor’s degree in 2022. She got a job with Kraft Heinz in her home state, then headed to Florida after getting a promotion as a sales analyst.If she comes back to the middle of the country, Miller expects it will be to Chicago, where her company is headquartered.“Just for opportunity sake,” Miller said. “That’s probably where most of my ventures will lead me.”Thousands of other college graduates through the Midwest and Great Plains left their states in 2022, according to the latest&nbsp;<a href="https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/acs/news/updates/2023.html" target="_blank">American Community Survey</a>&nbsp;from the U.S. Census Bureau.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unomaha.edu/college-of-public-affairs-and-community-service/center-for-public-affairs-research/documents/brain-drain-2022-release.pdf" target="_blank">Research</a>&nbsp;from the University of Nebraska at Omaha shows job-centered reasons are the main driver for why people have moved.This migration of people with a higher education degree has been dubbed “brain drain” and the opposite effect, “brain gain.” Brain drain or gain focuses on the population with a college education or higher.Josie Schafer, director of the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Center for Public Affairs Research, has been tracking brain drain using census data since about 2010. She said there are jobs available, but many people are looking for what she calls job density.“I think folks are really looking for those places where it's not just one good job, it's the potential over a lifetime for lots of good jobs,” Schafer said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707512925253.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas had a net gain of 257 higher education graduates in 2022, according to census data. However, surrounding states, Nebraska, Missouri and Oklahoma all showed declines.In Nebraska, 4,610 people with a bachelor’s, graduate or professional degree left the state in 2022. Schafer said while that's part of a trend, it’s important to understand there remains a high number of people with degrees both in Nebraska and states including Iowa, Missouri and Oklahoma.For instance, there remain over&nbsp;<a href="https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST1Y2022.S1502?q=people%20with%20degrees%20in%20nebraska" target="_blank">450,000</a>&nbsp;Nebraskans within the state who have degrees.“So in terms of the overall size of the of people leaving, it's really not that great,” Schafer said. “It's really just that trending down factor that we're really attuned to.”In the previous year, Kansas lost more people with degrees that it had gained. Schafer said many states will have a brain gain in urban spaces.Although there is a downward trend in many Midwestern states, Schafer said there are economic ties being built through investments and internship programs in Nebraska.“Entrepreneurship is something I'm really focused on in Nebraska,” Schafer said. “It's really hard to get big businesses to just move here and create great jobs, but we can certainly grow jobs from within.”Schafer said a lack of affordable housing is also an issue that can spur people to move out of state.The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cfra.org/" target="_blank">Center for Rural Affairs</a>&nbsp;is a rural advocacy nonprofit organization based in Nebraska, which focuses on economic opportunities. Jillian Linster, the center’s interim policy director, said there is a lot of interest in rural economic development.“I know that folks in rural Nebraska are invested in their communities, in revitalizing them and strengthening them, in welcoming new community members,” Linster said.She said areas with development opportunities include broadband access, clean energy, and agriculture.Linster, who lives and works in a rural area, said such places are filled with knowledge and wisdom.“We do have a responsibility as rural community members ourselves to actively work to make our communities the kind of places where people will choose to live and work,” she said. “And we have to think carefully about the decisions that we make and the kind of community that we build based on our personal decisions. But I see a great deal of positive growth in our rural communities in Nebraska."This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media</a>, a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.