By NATE KING Salina Post

Last month, Salina business owner Tim Blake of Wheat State Hospitality, Inc., received the Salina Downtown Inc., Good Neighbor of the Quarter award. Tim and his brother, Wes, own the Prickly Pear Grill and Cantina in downtown Salina.

Tim stopped by for an interview with Salina Post to share what it meant to win the first Good Neighbor Award of 2023 and how business has been at the cantina since opening its doors.

Billed as the unofficial front porch for downtown Salina, the<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pricklypearsalina/"> Prickly Pear Grill &amp; Cantina</a>, located at 123 S. Santa Fe Avenue, is a Tex-Mex infused eating and entertainment venue. The Blake brothers opened the cantina's doors in August of 2022.

"Salina Downtown Incorporated has just been fantastic in welcoming us to the downtown neighborhood. We opened the Prickly Pear, my brother Wes and I, in August, and it's it, you know, it's been a labor of love, but it's been highly rewarding," Blake said.&nbsp;

Salina Downtown Inc. presented Blake with the first quarter 2023 Good Neighbor of the year award on Jan. 24.&nbsp;

Leslie Bishop, executive director for <a href="https://www.salinadowntown.org/">Salina Downtown Inc.</a>, presented Blake with the award, which will be housed at the Prickly Pear for the first quarter of 2023.&nbsp;

"Tim has been such a terrific neighbor. He provides live entertainment for downtown guests and he works with our office and is always willing to lend a hand. We just love having him downtown," Bishop said.&nbsp;

Renovation work on the building began in 2020 after Tim and Wes purchased the prime Santa Fe real estate, now located adjacent to <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/ae9fa411-9ab5-4d29-98f8-4fe29cb77f28">Campbell Plaza.</a>

"To renovate that building and to put that concept down there [downtown] was just a project we had to be a part of," Blake said. "We're always working on it always trying to make it better. Five months in it is a project we're very proud of it and I think we'll be successful for a long time."

Blake said that the COVID-19 pandemic did interfere with the timing of opening their doors.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"The renovation&nbsp; of that the building that we're in downtown was extensive,” Blake said. "It's almost a complete rebuild of an old building, and with that brought a lot of different challenges. The pandemic certainly didn't help. To finally get to open in late 2022 was a long time coming but it's a project we think we did right and we're proud of and how it turned out."&nbsp;

 Their goal was to create&nbsp;&nbsp;a comfortable, family friendly environment that would include indoor and outdoor seating in addition to frequent live music. The cantina's menu has&nbsp; oversized salads, loaded tacos, and mouth-watering over-the-top hamburgers.

The Blakes also own and operate Hickory Hut BBQ in Salina. Tim Blake is Salina native and graduate of Salina South High School.&nbsp;

"We wanted to create a space that was family friendly, but it was all season, all time of year and frankly all time of day," Blake said. "Whether you are down for an early lunch at 11:30 a.m. or you're going to be there late into the evening for a live music event or a show with the Stiefel, we wanted to make a good well-rounded venue."

Blake, who spent 15 years of his career in financial planning, said that booking musical acts was something that he learned relatively recently, but it was always a planned aspect of the cantina.&nbsp;

"Until last July, I'd never booked a band in my life," Blake said. "It's something that you know, I think we've we've made a lot of strides in and throughout our fall season, after we had opened, we did offer live music on on many Friday and Saturday nights.&nbsp; Headed into this year, we've already filled out our calendar and our goal."

Blake said that guests of Salina Downtown can expect to see solo, duo and acoustic acts performing on Friday and Saturday nights, as soon as the weather allows.

Live music acts aren't the only thing guests can expect to see in the new Campbell Plaza. A mural&nbsp; painted by world renowned Dutch artists, Telmo Pieper and Miel Krutzmann can be seen on the adjacent wall to the Prickly Pear. The mural was created as part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/cc9354cc-47e8-4b50-8b80-3ce9635089cb">BOOM Salina</a>&nbsp;art movement that took place in October of 2022.&nbsp;

"Travis Young and the people that worked on the Kanvas project over the last year have started this program and installations of several different murals in downtown Salina and they've received a lot of attention," Blake said. "If you've been downtown, it's impossible not to notice them."

The Prickly Pear also showcases a mural depicting a familiar Kansan and pioneer in women in aviation, Amelia Earhart.&nbsp;

"I believe and really, Salina is already on the map of becoming a tourist hub," Blake said. "Those murals I think will quickly become a part of the fabric of downtown Salina. If you haven't been to downtown Salina in a while, I welcome you down. Come check us out.&nbsp;Go out to eat, go to a concert. Downtown Salina is on the rise."

<div><iframe title="Tim Blake, Business Owner, Prickly Pear" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=3r4ci-13e13c0-pb&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=1b1b1b&size=150"></iframe></div>By NATE KING Salina PostLast month, Salina business owner Tim Blake of Wheat State Hospitality, Inc., received the Salina Downtown Inc., Good Neighbor of the Quarter award. Tim and his brother, Wes, own the Prickly Pear Grill and Cantina in downtown Salina.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675964889318.jpeg" alt="Tim Blake, one of the owners of the Prickly Pear Cantina and Grille. Photos by Nate King/Salina Post" />
 <figcaption>Tim Blake, one of the owners of the Prickly Pear Cantina and Grille. Photos by Nate King/Salina Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Tim stopped by for an interview with Salina Post to share what it meant to win the first Good Neighbor Award of 2023 and how business has been at the cantina since opening its doors.Billed as the unofficial front porch for downtown Salina, the<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pricklypearsalina/"> Prickly Pear Grill &amp; Cantina</a>, located at 123 S. Santa Fe Avenue, is a Tex-Mex infused eating and entertainment venue. The Blake brothers opened the cantina's doors in August of 2022."Salina Downtown Incorporated has just been fantastic in welcoming us to the downtown neighborhood. We opened the Prickly Pear, my brother Wes and I, in August, and it's it, you know, it's been a labor of love, but it's been highly rewarding," Blake said.&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsalinadowntowninc%2Fvideos%2F739966807330971%2F&show_text=false&width=267&t=0" width="267" 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>Salina Downtown Inc. presented Blake with the first quarter 2023 Good Neighbor of the year award on Jan. 24.&nbsp;Leslie Bishop, executive director for <a href="https://www.salinadowntown.org/">Salina Downtown Inc.</a>, presented Blake with the award, which will be housed at the Prickly Pear for the first quarter of 2023.&nbsp;"Tim has been such a terrific neighbor. He provides live entertainment for downtown guests and he works with our office and is always willing to lend a hand. We just love having him downtown," Bishop said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675965708337.jpeg" alt="Blake and cantina employees, Rashun Allen, Courtney Roberts and Gabrielle Resley." />
 <figcaption>Blake and cantina employees, Rashun Allen, Courtney Roberts and Gabrielle Resley.</figcaption>
 </figure>Renovation work on the building began in 2020 after Tim and Wes purchased the prime Santa Fe real estate, now located adjacent to <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/ae9fa411-9ab5-4d29-98f8-4fe29cb77f28">Campbell Plaza.</a>"To renovate that building and to put that concept down there [downtown] was just a project we had to be a part of," Blake said. "We're always working on it always trying to make it better. Five months in it is a project we're very proud of it and I think we'll be successful for a long time."Blake said that the COVID-19 pandemic did interfere with the timing of opening their doors.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675965024763.jpeg" alt="Interior of the Prickly Pear&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Interior of the Prickly Pear&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;"The renovation&nbsp; of that the building that we're in downtown was extensive,” Blake said. "It's almost a complete rebuild of an old building, and with that brought a lot of different challenges. The pandemic certainly didn't help. To finally get to open in late 2022 was a long time coming but it's a project we think we did right and we're proud of and how it turned out."&nbsp; Their goal was to create&nbsp;&nbsp;a comfortable, family friendly environment that would include indoor and outdoor seating in addition to frequent live music. The cantina's menu has&nbsp; oversized salads, loaded tacos, and mouth-watering over-the-top hamburgers.The Blakes also own and operate Hickory Hut BBQ in Salina. Tim Blake is Salina native and graduate of Salina South High School.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675965359052.jpeg" alt="The folksy&nbsp; and welcoming artwork reflects the ambiance guests can expect to find at the Prickly Pear.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The folksy&nbsp; and welcoming artwork reflects the ambiance guests can expect to find at the Prickly Pear.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>"We wanted to create a space that was family friendly, but it was all season, all time of year and frankly all time of day," Blake said. "Whether you are down for an early lunch at 11:30 a.m. or you're going to be there late into the evening for a live music event or a show with the Stiefel, we wanted to make a good well-rounded venue."Blake, who spent 15 years of his career in financial planning, said that booking musical acts was something that he learned relatively recently, but it was always a planned aspect of the cantina.&nbsp;"Until last July, I'd never booked a band in my life," Blake said. "It's something that you know, I think we've we've made a lot of strides in and throughout our fall season, after we had opened, we did offer live music on on many Friday and Saturday nights.&nbsp; Headed into this year, we've already filled out our calendar and our goal."Blake said that guests of Salina Downtown can expect to see solo, duo and acoustic acts performing on Friday and Saturday nights, as soon as the weather allows.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675965171471.jpeg" alt="Dutch artists, Telmo Pieper and Miel Krutzmann created the mural that can be seen on the wall adjacent to the Prickly Pear.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Dutch artists, Telmo Pieper and Miel Krutzmann created the mural that can be seen on the wall adjacent to the Prickly Pear.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Live music acts aren't the only thing guests can expect to see in the new Campbell Plaza. A mural&nbsp; painted by world renowned Dutch artists, Telmo Pieper and Miel Krutzmann can be seen on the adjacent wall to the Prickly Pear. The mural was created as part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/cc9354cc-47e8-4b50-8b80-3ce9635089cb">BOOM Salina</a>&nbsp;art movement that took place in October of 2022.&nbsp;"Travis Young and the people that worked on the Kanvas project over the last year have started this program and installations of several different murals in downtown Salina and they've received a lot of attention," Blake said. "If you've been downtown, it's impossible not to notice them."The Prickly Pear also showcases a mural depicting a familiar Kansan and pioneer in women in aviation, Amelia Earhart.&nbsp;"I believe and really, Salina is already on the map of becoming a tourist hub," Blake said. "Those murals I think will quickly become a part of the fabric of downtown Salina. If you haven't been to downtown Salina in a while, I welcome you down. Come check us out.&nbsp;Go out to eat, go to a concert. Downtown Salina is on the rise."

🎙King in the Community: Prickly Pear Cantina and Grill owner wins award

A look into the past at Republic Pharmacy in Belleville. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kansashistorical/">Kansas Historical Society Facebook page</a>:

A look into the past at Republic Pharmacy in Belleville. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kansashistorical/">Kansas Historical Society Facebook page</a>:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fkansashistorical%2Fphotos%2Fa.96155485090%2F10160133958595091%2F&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="648" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

KHS shares historic Republic Pharmacy postcard

REPUBLIC COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Friday in Republic County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 GMC Terrain driven by Amber Cherney, 22, Cuba, Kan., was southbound on 260 Road just north of Shady Road.

The driver swerved and the SUV entered the east ditch. It struck a field entrance, became airborne, landed on the south side of the field entrance and struck the field side embankment.

The SUV spun 180 degrees, struck a barbed wire fence and came to rest up against the barbed wire fence on its wheels.

EMS transported Cherney to the Republic County Hospital in Belleville. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

REPUBLIC COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Friday in Republic County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 GMC Terrain driven by Amber Cherney, 22, Cuba, Kan., was southbound on 260 Road just north of Shady Road.The driver swerved and the SUV entered the east ditch. It struck a field entrance, became airborne, landed on the south side of the field entrance and struck the field side embankment.The SUV spun 180 degrees, struck a barbed wire fence and came to rest up against the barbed wire fence on its wheels.EMS transported Cherney to the Republic County Hospital in Belleville. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman hospitalized after violent SUV crash

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Clarence the Catfish is the 2022 SculptureTour Salina People's Choice Award winner.

Salina Mayor Mike Hoppock, who also serves as chair of SculptureTour Salina, made the announcement late this morning at Clarence's current location near the northeast corner of N. Santa Fe Avenue and E. Iron Avenue.

"This would not be possible without our sponsors and our friends. This is a privately funded sculpture tour and without those individuals, the funding would not be available," Hoppock said of the tour.

The current tour, which features 22 pieces of art throughout downtown Salina, including Clarence the Catfish, will be available for public viewing through mid-April.

"So if you haven't had a chance to come down and see them, pick a nice day, come downtown, see the sculptures, visit the merchants. Downtown Salina is vibrant and continues to grow in excitement, so we'd love to have you down here," Hoppock said.

Clarence the Catfish was created by Joe and Terry Malesky, the artistic team of New Adventures Sculptures, Strafford, Mo., according to information from SculptureTour Salina.

As the People's Choice Award winner, Clarence the Catfish will be purchased by the City of Salina for its permanent sculpture collection and will be placed somewhere in the city for the public to enjoy. This will be the 12th year that the city purchases the People's Choice Award winner, Hoppock said. Previous People's Choice Award winners appear below.

Hoppock first announced the Kids' Choice Award winner: Say Cheese by Justin Deister of Louisville, Colo. That award carries with it a $500 cash prize for the winner.

"We think it's important that the youth get involved in this so we started doing a kids' choice," Hoppock said.

Say Cheese currently is located in front of Barolo Grille, 112 S. Santa Fe Avenue.

The other award announced was the People's Merit Award which is given to the sculpture that receives the second most number of votes in the People's Choice voting, and carries with it a $1,000 cash prize. This year's People's Merit Award winner is Ratatouille by Dale Lewis of Hastings, Minn.

Ratatouille currently is located in front of Martinelli's Little Italy, 158 S. Santa Fe Avenue.

Hoppock also said that the artwork for the 2023 sculpture tour has been selected. The UNwrap Party for the 2023 sculpture tour is scheduled for 11 a.m. May 6 at the City Lights Stage on the southwest corner of N. Santa Fe Avenue and W. Ash Street. More information about the UNwrap Party will be announced at a later date.

Previous People's Choice Award-winning sculptures and their locations in Salina include the following, according to SculptureTour Salina.

2011 – Watch Dog by Louise Peterson, on display in Oakdale Park Sculpture Garden, 730 Oakdale Drive

2012 – Sweet Kisses by Marianne Caroselli, on display in Oakdale Park Sculpture Garden, 730 Oakdale Drive

2013 – Farmer by Lawrence Starck, soon to be on display at Salina Senior Center, 245 N. Ninth Street.

2014 – Next Up by James Haire, on display at Kansas Wesleyan University, 100 E. Claflin Avenue, near the tennis courts.

2015 – Daughters of Peace by Benjamin Victor, on display on the second floor of the City-County Building, 300 W. Ash Street.

2016 – Slim by Dale Lewis, on display at Tony’s Pizza Event Center, 800 The Midway.

2017 – Picasso’s Violin by Jodie Bliss, on display at The Temple, 336 S. Santa Fe Avenue.

2018 – Patches by Dale Lewis, on display at The Smoky Hill Museum, 211 W. Iron Avenue.

2019 – Wheat Harvest by James Mages, on display at the City-County Building, 300 W. Ash Street.

2020 – For the Love of Steel by Sunny Corbett, on display on N. Santa Fe Avenue in front of The Voo, 249 N. Santa Fe Avenue.

2021 – Butterfly Tree by Reven Swenson, on display south of the Salina Public Library, 301 W. Elm Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676058507327.png" alt="Mike Hoppock announces the People's Choice Award winner, "Clarence the Catfish," in downtown Salina Friday morning. Photo courtesy <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinadowntowninc">Salina Downtown Inc. Facebook Live video</a>" />
 <figcaption>Mike Hoppock announces the People's Choice Award winner, "Clarence the Catfish," in downtown Salina Friday morning. Photo courtesy <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinadowntowninc">Salina Downtown Inc. Facebook Live video</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostClarence the Catfish is the 2022 SculptureTour Salina People's Choice Award winner.Salina Mayor Mike Hoppock, who also serves as chair of SculptureTour Salina, made the announcement late this morning at Clarence's current location near the northeast corner of N. Santa Fe Avenue and E. Iron Avenue."This would not be possible without our sponsors and our friends. This is a privately funded sculpture tour and without those individuals, the funding would not be available," Hoppock said of the tour.The current tour, which features 22 pieces of art throughout downtown Salina, including Clarence the Catfish, will be available for public viewing through mid-April."So if you haven't had a chance to come down and see them, pick a nice day, come downtown, see the sculptures, visit the merchants. Downtown Salina is vibrant and continues to grow in excitement, so we'd love to have you down here," Hoppock said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676058707392.jpeg" alt=""Clarence The Catfish." Photos courtesy SculptureTour Salina" />
 <figcaption>"Clarence The Catfish." Photos courtesy SculptureTour Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>Clarence the Catfish was created by Joe and Terry Malesky, the artistic team of New Adventures Sculptures, Strafford, Mo., according to information from SculptureTour Salina. As the People's Choice Award winner, Clarence the Catfish will be purchased by the City of Salina for its permanent sculpture collection and will be placed somewhere in the city for the public to enjoy. This will be the 12th year that the city purchases the People's Choice Award winner, Hoppock said. Previous People's Choice Award winners appear below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676058831133.jpeg" alt=""Say Cheese"&nbsp; by Justin Deister" />
 <figcaption>"Say Cheese"&nbsp; by Justin Deister</figcaption>
 </figure>Hoppock first announced the Kids' Choice Award winner: Say Cheese by Justin Deister of Louisville, Colo. That award carries with it a $500 cash prize for the winner."We think it's important that the youth get involved in this so we started doing a kids' choice," Hoppock said.Say Cheese currently is located in front of Barolo Grille, 112 S. Santa Fe Avenue.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676058953532.jpeg" alt=""Ratatouille"&nbsp;by Dale Lewis&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>"Ratatouille"&nbsp;by Dale Lewis&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The other award announced was the People's Merit Award which is given to the sculpture that receives the second most number of votes in the People's Choice voting, and carries with it a $1,000 cash prize. This year's People's Merit Award winner is Ratatouille by Dale Lewis of Hastings, Minn.Ratatouille currently is located in front of Martinelli's Little Italy, 158 S. Santa Fe Avenue.Hoppock also said that the artwork for the 2023 sculpture tour has been selected. The UNwrap Party for the 2023 sculpture tour is scheduled for 11 a.m. May 6 at the City Lights Stage on the southwest corner of N. Santa Fe Avenue and W. Ash Street. More information about the UNwrap Party will be announced at a later date.Previous People's Choice Award-winning sculptures and their locations in Salina include the following, according to SculptureTour Salina.2011 – Watch Dog by Louise Peterson, on display in Oakdale Park Sculpture Garden, 730 Oakdale Drive2012 – Sweet Kisses by Marianne Caroselli, on display in Oakdale Park Sculpture Garden, 730 Oakdale Drive2013 – Farmer by Lawrence Starck, soon to be on display at Salina Senior Center, 245 N. Ninth Street.2014 – Next Up by James Haire, on display at Kansas Wesleyan University, 100 E. Claflin Avenue, near the tennis courts.2015 – Daughters of Peace by Benjamin Victor, on display on the second floor of the City-County Building, 300 W. Ash Street.2016 – Slim by Dale Lewis, on display at Tony’s Pizza Event Center, 800 The Midway.2017 – Picasso’s Violin by Jodie Bliss, on display at The Temple, 336 S. Santa Fe Avenue.2018 – Patches by Dale Lewis, on display at The Smoky Hill Museum, 211 W. Iron Avenue.2019 – Wheat Harvest by James Mages, on display at the City-County Building, 300 W. Ash Street.2020 – For the Love of Steel by Sunny Corbett, on display on N. Santa Fe Avenue in front of The Voo, 249 N. Santa Fe Avenue.2021 – Butterfly Tree by Reven Swenson, on display south of the Salina Public Library, 301 W. Elm Street.

'Clarence the Catfish' named People's Choice Award winner

A big-screen television and a large amount of cash were stolen from a central Salina residence during the day Thursday.

A 40-year-old Salina man told police that he went to work at approximately 9 a.m. Thursday. When he returned to his residence in the 600 block of W. Walnut Street at approximately 5:30 p.m., he found that someone had forced open his front door, causing approximately $500 in damage, Saline Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning.

The man also found that someone had stolen a 55-inch LG television valued at $500 and approximately $1,100 in cash, Forrester noted.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA big-screen television and a large amount of cash were stolen from a central Salina residence during the day Thursday.A 40-year-old Salina man told police that he went to work at approximately 9 a.m. Thursday. When he returned to his residence in the 600 block of W. Walnut Street at approximately 5:30 p.m., he found that someone had forced open his front door, causing approximately $500 in damage, Saline Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning.The man also found that someone had stolen a 55-inch LG television valued at $500 and approximately $1,100 in cash, Forrester noted.

55-inch TV, cash stolen from central Salina residence Thursday

Reusing the current jail as a law enforcement center and concern about letting the building deteriorate were among the more prominent responses to Saline County's recent jail reuse survey. 

This fall, the Saline County Sheriff's Office is scheduled to move its jail operating to the new facility currently being built on E. Pacific Avenue in northeastern Salina. Through an online survey, Saline County gathered citizen opinions about the reuse of the current facility just west of Salina's downtown district.

"The results are being incorporated into the Facility Master Plan prepared by an architectural team under contract with the county," County Administrator Phillip Smith-Hanes said in a news release issued Thursday with the survey results. "The Master Plan will be presented to Commissioners on Feb. 21, which will begin the decision-making process for the future of several County facilities including the jail."

According to the survey results, the majority of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that the current jail facility should be reused as "a law enforcement center, including expansion of Salina Police Department, space for probation services, and potential detention facilities for juveniles or probation sanctions."

Slightly fewer respondents agreed or strongly agreed with the concept of using the current jail "as a different type of criminal justice facility, such as a Family Justice Center providing wraparound services for at-risk youth."

More people either disagreed or strongly disagreed with the following two concepts, according to the survey results.

●Conversion to a facility providing space for retail, such as a grocery store

●Demolition of the existing building and construction of an entirely new facility

Additionally, more than 45 percent of the respondents indicated that their biggest concern about reuse of the building was "not letting the building deteriorate and become a drain on the community."

To see all of the survey stats (a nine-page pdf), <a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/55d47694801/4da75786-98f0-478f-81f3-64f602e0faf1.pdf?rdr=true">click here</a>.

Those filling out the survey also were asked to share their ideas for reuse of the current jail facility. A number of responses focused on housing, rehabilitation services, the homeless, and Salina's youth.

The ideas included the following. Persons who made the suggestions were in no way identified.

I think Salina would benefit very much by considering the building as a rehab center for civilians or people with multiple drug charges so they can actually try and kick drugs which in return will make our community more safe. Salina needs to address our huge drug problem, when that happens, crime will go down.

Remodel this facility instead of adding onto the 3rd floor at the city/county building for Courts. I feel this would allow for more expansion in the future as the 3rd floor is so limited. You would have the ability to load &amp; unload inmates inside the facility. Everyone would be on one floor, with one entrance and exit with security staffing. No more security risk of putting inmates on an elevator like they have too now. Less of a risk with inmates being amongst civilians and causing an incident where someone could potentially get seriously hurt. Then 3rd floor could be used for additional County Office space. Some offices are so crowded now you feel like you are setting each others lap.

It would really be nice to have the homeless off the streets. The jail has 2 units for men and women.

This needs to be used for youth instead of sending them to junction city.

Remodeling for use as a low cost rent facility for workers that will be hired by various and sundry businesses that are expanding and in need of housing.

I am not in favor of a homeless facility in downtown Salina, however it may be a good location for a processing center to repatriate the members of our homeless community that do not wish to utilize the opportunities available for change to their points/ communities of origin.

Rehabilitation Services for drug users and/or ex-convicts; mental health service center; employment center for people in economic needs.

Lease for commercial business use, or convert to a green space for community gatherings. An outdoor addition for memorial hall. Band shelter for downtown events.

Make it a youth center. provide afterschool help for kids in need.. make it a safe space..

It could be used as a type of boys and girls club/community outreach. It would be a good idea to to get ahead of the drug problem and incarceration mindset with the youth. Give them the education, activities, job skills, money management, and a safe place to be before they find other things to do with their time. Kids don't have a lot of money. Many of the residents don't either. Let's not exclude the general public and long time residents. Turning it into another money grab for the few that are already have, probably isn't the best solution.

Permanent housing for the homeless. The cells could be turned into individual rooms. They could pay low rent.

Senior citizens apartments/ Restaurants/Miny mall.

Juvenile detention center. Half way house. Place to provide housing for people in need.

It would be nice to have another green space/dog park/regular park closer to this area of town.

Community engagement center. Maybe a few services or programs that better the community that can also utilize the space when citizens are not.

A community center for boxing program with volunteers from police/community help. Also a after school program for kids who's parents can't afford programs and babysitters for their kids. We need something for kids to empower them so we can make our community better and keeps kids away from drugs and bad influence. So many kids give up in life due to resources and not enough support at home so kids turn to the streets. We need to make Salina strong and united, a better place for all a place that many communities will adopt our idea of changing the future of the kids.

Moving the Senior Citizen Center to the facility. The current senior citizen center is difficult for seniors to navigate. For the safety of the senior citizens who use the Senior Citizen Center, I am concerned about using the facilities for a homeless shelter.

To read all of the ideas (a 14-page pdf), <a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/55d47694801/8aee5a4b-123f-444b-b1ac-dce4298c362d.pdf?rdr=true">click here</a>.

Additionally, the county asked respondents to share additional feedback. Read those responses (a 10-page pdf) by <a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/55d47694801/8331397e-82ef-4a0c-bbfe-aa0c4fef1fec.pdf?rdr=true">clicking here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584553268286.jpeg" alt="Part of the north side of the current Saline County Jail, which is located between Park Street and W. Elm Street on the south and north and N. 10th Street and N. 12th Street on the east and west. Salina Post file photo" />
 <figcaption>Part of the north side of the current Saline County Jail, which is located between Park Street and W. Elm Street on the south and north and N. 10th Street and N. 12th Street on the east and west. Salina Post file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostReusing the current jail as a law enforcement center and concern about letting the building deteriorate were among the more prominent responses to Saline County's recent jail reuse survey. This fall, the Saline County Sheriff's Office is scheduled to move its jail operating to the new facility currently being built on E. Pacific Avenue in northeastern Salina. Through an online survey, Saline County gathered citizen opinions about the reuse of the current facility just west of Salina's downtown district."The results are being incorporated into the Facility Master Plan prepared by an architectural team under contract with the county," County Administrator Phillip Smith-Hanes said in a news release issued Thursday with the survey results. "The Master Plan will be presented to Commissioners on Feb. 21, which will begin the decision-making process for the future of several County facilities including the jail."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675977685620.png" alt="Charts courtesy Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Charts courtesy Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>According to the survey results, the majority of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that the current jail facility should be reused as "a law enforcement center, including expansion of Salina Police Department, space for probation services, and potential detention facilities for juveniles or probation sanctions."Slightly fewer respondents agreed or strongly agreed with the concept of using the current jail "as a different type of criminal justice facility, such as a Family Justice Center providing wraparound services for at-risk youth."More people either disagreed or strongly disagreed with the following two concepts, according to the survey results.●Conversion to a facility providing space for retail, such as a grocery store●Demolition of the existing building and construction of an entirely new facility<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675977828729.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Additionally, more than 45 percent of the respondents indicated that their biggest concern about reuse of the building was "not letting the building deteriorate and become a drain on the community."To see all of the survey stats (a nine-page pdf), <a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/55d47694801/4da75786-98f0-478f-81f3-64f602e0faf1.pdf?rdr=true">click here</a>.Citizens' ideas for reuseThose filling out the survey also were asked to share their ideas for reuse of the current jail facility. A number of responses focused on housing, rehabilitation services, the homeless, and Salina's youth.The ideas included the following. Persons who made the suggestions were in no way identified.I think Salina would benefit very much by considering the building as a rehab center for civilians or people with multiple drug charges so they can actually try and kick drugs which in return will make our community more safe. Salina needs to address our huge drug problem, when that happens, crime will go down.Remodel this facility instead of adding onto the 3rd floor at the city/county building for Courts. I feel this would allow for more expansion in the future as the 3rd floor is so limited. You would have the ability to load &amp; unload inmates inside the facility. Everyone would be on one floor, with one entrance and exit with security staffing. No more security risk of putting inmates on an elevator like they have too now. Less of a risk with inmates being amongst civilians and causing an incident where someone could potentially get seriously hurt. Then 3rd floor could be used for additional County Office space. Some offices are so crowded now you feel like you are setting each others lap.It would really be nice to have the homeless off the streets. The jail has 2 units for men and women.This needs to be used for youth instead of sending them to junction city.Remodeling for use as a low cost rent facility for workers that will be hired by various and sundry businesses that are expanding and in need of housing.I am not in favor of a homeless facility in downtown Salina, however it may be a good location for a processing center to repatriate the members of our homeless community that do not wish to utilize the opportunities available for change to their points/ communities of origin.Renovate into a child daycare.Expand the police department.Rehabilitation Services for drug users and/or ex-convicts; mental health service center; employment center for people in economic needs.Lease for commercial business use, or convert to a green space for community gatherings. An outdoor addition for memorial hall. Band shelter for downtown events.Make it a youth center. provide afterschool help for kids in need.. make it a safe space..It could be used as a type of boys and girls club/community outreach. It would be a good idea to to get ahead of the drug problem and incarceration mindset with the youth. Give them the education, activities, job skills, money management, and a safe place to be before they find other things to do with their time. Kids don't have a lot of money. Many of the residents don't either. Let's not exclude the general public and long time residents. Turning it into another money grab for the few that are already have, probably isn't the best solution.Permanent housing for the homeless. The cells could be turned into individual rooms. They could pay low rent.Senior citizens apartments/ Restaurants/Miny mall.Juvenile detention center. Half way house. Place to provide housing for people in need.It would be nice to have another green space/dog park/regular park closer to this area of town.Community engagement center. Maybe a few services or programs that better the community that can also utilize the space when citizens are not.A community center for boxing program with volunteers from police/community help. Also a after school program for kids who's parents can't afford programs and babysitters for their kids. We need something for kids to empower them so we can make our community better and keeps kids away from drugs and bad influence. So many kids give up in life due to resources and not enough support at home so kids turn to the streets. We need to make Salina strong and united, a better place for all a place that many communities will adopt our idea of changing the future of the kids.Moving the Senior Citizen Center to the facility. The current senior citizen center is difficult for seniors to navigate. For the safety of the senior citizens who use the Senior Citizen Center, I am concerned about using the facilities for a homeless shelter. To read all of the ideas (a 14-page pdf), <a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/55d47694801/8aee5a4b-123f-444b-b1ac-dce4298c362d.pdf?rdr=true">click here</a>.Additionally, the county asked respondents to share additional feedback. Read those responses (a 10-page pdf) by <a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/55d47694801/8331397e-82ef-4a0c-bbfe-aa0c4fef1fec.pdf?rdr=true">clicking here</a>.

Saline County releases results of jail reuse survey

Here's the lineup for this week's&nbsp;KINA Saturday Morning.

9:05&nbsp; a.m.: Grow Ellsworth County, Stacie Schmidt, director, and Thaddeus Donley, a student competing&nbsp;in the youth entrepreneurship contest.

9:30 a.m.:&nbsp; Brian Underwood, supervisor of Lakewood Discovery Center, is scheduled to speak about spring programs and what Parks and Recreation has been doing to improve the parks&nbsp;for the upcoming spring.

10:05 a.m.:&nbsp; Update on Souper Bowl of Hope, Red Cross blood drives, and the results of the Saline County jail reuse survey.

10:30 a.m.:&nbsp; Dan Israel, executive producer, Chiefs Radio Network on Superbowl LVII.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If you have an idea for a story, contact Nate King, Eagle Radio Salina On-Air News Director, at <a href="mailto:nathan.king@eagleradio.net">nathan.king@eagleradio.net</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591971280271.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTHere's the lineup for this week's&nbsp;KINA Saturday Morning.9:05&nbsp; a.m.: Grow Ellsworth County, Stacie Schmidt, director, and Thaddeus Donley, a student competing&nbsp;in the youth entrepreneurship contest. 9:30 a.m.:&nbsp; Brian Underwood, supervisor of Lakewood Discovery Center, is scheduled to speak about spring programs and what Parks and Recreation has been doing to improve the parks&nbsp;for the upcoming spring.10:05 a.m.:&nbsp; Update on Souper Bowl of Hope, Red Cross blood drives, and the results of the Saline County jail reuse survey.10:30 a.m.:&nbsp; Dan Israel, executive producer, Chiefs Radio Network on Superbowl LVII.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you have an idea for a story, contact Nate King, Eagle Radio Salina On-Air News Director, at <a href="mailto:nathan.king@eagleradio.net">nathan.king@eagleradio.net</a>.

This week's 'KINA Saturday Morning' lineup

A local man is out three guns, ammunition, and cash after someone broke into his central Salina home Thursday.

A 50-year-old Salina man told police that he left for work at approximately 6 a.m. Thursday. When he returned to his residence in the 900 block of Merrill Street at approximately 3:30 p.m. Thursday, he found his kitchen window broken and the firearms and ammunition missing, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning. 

A clothes dryer had been moved from the backyard to near the residence to help the thief gain access to the window.

The missing items included the following.

●Some 22 Remington ammunition valued at $20

Damage to the window was estimated at $50.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA local man is out three guns, ammunition, and cash after someone broke into his central Salina home Thursday.A 50-year-old Salina man told police that he left for work at approximately 6 a.m. Thursday. When he returned to his residence in the 900 block of Merrill Street at approximately 3:30 p.m. Thursday, he found his kitchen window broken and the firearms and ammunition missing, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning. A clothes dryer had been moved from the backyard to near the residence to help the thief gain access to the window.The missing items included the following.●A Ruger P89 valued at $300●A green Glock valued at $700●A Ruger 22 valued at $250●Some 22 Remington ammunition valued at $20●$50 in cashDamage to the window was estimated at $50.

Guns, ammo, cash stolen from central Salina residence

On Jan. 19, Salina police officers took a report of a subject attempting to pass a forged check at Bennington State Bank, 2130 S. Ohio Street.

On Jan. 17, a male suspect entered the bank and attempted to pass a check. The teller believed the check was suspicious and after researching the account, it was learned the check was fraudulent. It was later determined the ID the suspect provided to pass the check was also fraudulent.

If you have any information concerning this incident or identification of the individual involved, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS. You can also make an online tip at: <a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#">https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#</a>. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000. Tipsters may also contact the Salina Police Department at (785) 826-7210, or Officer Weis, case 2023-1803.

CrimestoppersOn Jan. 19, Salina police officers took a report of a subject attempting to pass a forged check at Bennington State Bank, 2130 S. Ohio Street.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676038178455.jpeg" alt="Surveillance photo courtesy Crimestoppers" />
 <figcaption>Surveillance photo courtesy Crimestoppers</figcaption>
 </figure>On Jan. 17, a male suspect entered the bank and attempted to pass a check. The teller believed the check was suspicious and after researching the account, it was learned the check was fraudulent. It was later determined the ID the suspect provided to pass the check was also fraudulent.If you have any information concerning this incident or identification of the individual involved, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS. You can also make an online tip at: <a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#">https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#</a>. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000. Tipsters may also contact the Salina Police Department at (785) 826-7210, or Officer Weis, case 2023-1803.

Crimestoppers seeks tips about forged check attempt at Salina bank

My parents are both in their seventies. They have been healthy and active all their lives, but in spite of them both having good jobs they neglected to plan and save for retirement. Is it my responsibility now to provide them with financial help in their old age?

It sounds like you might be a little irritated that your parents haven’t been responsible with their money. The way you described the circumstances, it’s understandable—to a point. But in my mind, there’s a bigger question when it comes to helping your folks. How big is the burden?

Let me ask you a few things. Do you have the money to help? Now, can you provide this help without your own family suffering or going without? If both answers are yes, I think your question may be a little more about your own aggravation with your folks than any ethical or moral obligation.

A few years ago I spoke with a guy who was in really good shape financially. He made over $1 million a year, and he had plenty set aside in savings and retirement accounts. His father was in poor health and had never handled his money wisely. The son asked me if he should help out his dad by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/budgeting/give-while-in-debt" target="_blank">giving</a>&nbsp;him some money every month.

In my mind, there’s no question the right answer was yes. And that’s what I told him. If you’re making millions, but don’t want to help out your sick dad, there’s something wrong with you. There’s something missing inside you that money just won’t fix. However, if you and your family are barely getting by—let’s say you bring home $3,000 a month—you’re not morally required to help a parent who was irresponsible with money their entire life.

I’m not sure what&nbsp;your&nbsp;situation is, Reagan, but I hope you’ll look at things with a little grace&nbsp;and&nbsp;reason. It’s a tough situation to be in, because it sounds like your heart is being pulled in different directions. My advice, above all else, is to pray about it. And, if you have a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/relationships/talk-about-money-even-when-its-hard" target="_blank">spouse</a>, talk to them about everything, and make sure the two of you are in agreement on what should be done before moving forward.

Dave Ramsey&nbsp;is an eight-time national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 million listeners each week. He&nbsp;has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648176857529.png" alt="Dave Ramsey" />
 <figcaption>Dave Ramsey</figcaption>
 </figure>Dear Dave,My parents are both in their seventies. They have been healthy and active all their lives, but in spite of them both having good jobs they neglected to plan and save for retirement. Is it my responsibility now to provide them with financial help in their old age?ReaganDear Reagan,It sounds like you might be a little irritated that your parents haven’t been responsible with their money. The way you described the circumstances, it’s understandable—to a point. But in my mind, there’s a bigger question when it comes to helping your folks. How big is the burden?Let me ask you a few things. Do you have the money to help? Now, can you provide this help without your own family suffering or going without? If both answers are yes, I think your question may be a little more about your own aggravation with your folks than any ethical or moral obligation.A few years ago I spoke with a guy who was in really good shape financially. He made over $1 million a year, and he had plenty set aside in savings and retirement accounts. His father was in poor health and had never handled his money wisely. The son asked me if he should help out his dad by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/budgeting/give-while-in-debt" target="_blank">giving</a>&nbsp;him some money every month.In my mind, there’s no question the right answer was yes. And that’s what I told him. If you’re making millions, but don’t want to help out your sick dad, there’s something wrong with you. There’s something missing inside you that money just won’t fix. However, if you and your family are barely getting by—let’s say you bring home $3,000 a month—you’re not morally required to help a parent who was irresponsible with money their entire life.I’m not sure what&nbsp;your&nbsp;situation is, Reagan, but I hope you’ll look at things with a little grace&nbsp;and&nbsp;reason. It’s a tough situation to be in, because it sounds like your heart is being pulled in different directions. My advice, above all else, is to pray about it. And, if you have a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/relationships/talk-about-money-even-when-its-hard" target="_blank">spouse</a>, talk to them about everything, and make sure the two of you are in agreement on what should be done before moving forward.God bless you, friend.DaveDave Ramsey&nbsp;is an eight-time national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 million listeners each week. He&nbsp;has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

DAVE SAYS: How big is the burden?

Today is Friday, Feb. 10, the 41st day of 2023. There are 330 days left in the year.

On Feb. 10, 1962, the Soviet Union exchanged captured American U-2 pilot Francis Gary Powers for Rudolf Abel, a Soviet spy held by the United States.

In 1763, Britain, Spain and France signed the Treaty of Paris, ending the Seven Years' War (also known as the French and Indian War in North America).

In 1840, Britain's Queen Victoria married Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha.

In 1936, Nazi Germany's Reichstag passed a law investing the Gestapo secret police with absolute authority, exempt from any legal review.

In 1959, a major tornado tore through the St. Louis area, killing 21 people and causing heavy damage.

In 1967, the 25th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, dealing with presidential disability and succession, was ratified as Minnesota and Nevada adopted it.

In 1981, eight people were killed when a fire set by a busboy broke out at the Las Vegas Hilton hotel-casino.

In 1989, Ron Brown was elected the first Black chairman of the Democratic National Committee.

In 1992, boxer Mike Tyson was convicted in Indianapolis of raping Desiree Washington, a Miss Black America contestant. (Tyson served three years in prison.) "Roots" author Alex Haley died in Seattle at age 70.

In 1996, world chess champion Garry Kasparov lost the first game of a match in Philadelphia against an IBM computer dubbed "Deep Blue." (Kasparov ended up winning the match, 4 games to 2; he was defeated by Deep Blue in a rematch the following year.)

In 2005, North Korea boasted publicly for the first time that it possessed nuclear weapons.

In 2015, NBC announced it was suspending Brian Williams as "Nightly News" anchor and managing editor for six months without pay for misleading the public about his experiences covering the Iraq War. Jon Stewart announced he would step down as host of "The Daily Show" on Comedy Central later in the year.

In 2020, U.S. health officials confirmed the first case of the novel coronavirus among the hundreds of people who'd been evacuated from China to military bases in the United States; it was among the 13 confirmed cases in the U.S. Britain declared the new coronavirus a "serious and imminent threat to public health" and said people with the virus could now be forcibly quarantined.

Ten years ago: Joe Paterno's family released its response to Penn State's report on the Jerry Sandusky scandal, attacking Louis Freeh's conclusion that the coach hid sex abuse allegations against his longtime assistant. Marine Gen. Joseph Dunford took charge of U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan. At the Grammy Awards, Fun. won song of the year for "We Are Young"; Gotye's "Somebody I Used to Know" picked up record of the year.

Five years ago: Israel carried out a wave of airstrikes in Syria that were ordered after Israel intercepted an Iranian drone that had infiltrated its airspace; it was the most serious Israeli engagement in Syria since the war erupted there almost seven years earlier. In a tweet that appeared to take aim at the rising #MeToo movement, President Donald Trump wrote that "lives are being shattered and destroyed by a mere allegation;" the tweet came in the aftermath of the resignation of a pivotal aide, Rob Porter, who'd been accused of abusing two ex-wives. The Korean women's hockey team, the first in Olympic history to combine players from the North and South, lost its debut game, 8-0, to Switzerland before a cheering, chanting sellout crowd at the Winter Olympics in South Korea.

One year ago: The U.S. Labor Department revealed that inflation over the past year had soared at its highest rate in forty years. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the Ukraine crisis has grown into "the most dangerous moment" for Europe in decades, while his top diplomat held icy talks with her Moscow counterpart who said the Kremlin wouldn't accept lectures from the West.

Today's birthdays: Opera singer Leontyne Price is 96. Actor Robert Wagner is 93. Singer Roberta Flack is 86. Singer Jimmy Merchant (Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers) is 83. Rock musician Bob Spalding (The Ventures) is 76. Olympic gold-medal swimmer Mark Spitz is 73. Walt Disney Co. executive Robert Iger is 72. Rock musician and composer Cory Lerios (Pablo Cruise) is 72. World Golf Hall of Famer Greg Norman is 68. Actor Kathleen Beller is 67. Country singer Lionel Cartwright is 63. Movie director Alexander Payne is 62. ABC News correspondent George Stephanopoulos is 62. Political commentator Glenn Beck is 59. Actor Laura Dern is 56. Writer-producer-director Vince Gilligan (TV: "Breaking Bad") is 56. Country singer Dude Mowrey is 51. Actor Jason Olive is 51. Actor Elizabeth Banks is 49. Actor Julia Pace Mitchell is 45. Reggaeton singer Don Omar is 45. Actor Uzo Aduba is 42. Actor Stephanie Beatriz is 42. Actor Max Brown is 42. Actor Barry Sloane is 42. Rock singer Eric Dill is 41. Actor Trevante Rhodes is 33. Actor Emma Roberts is 32. Actor Makenzie Vega is 29. Actor Chloe Grace Moretz is 26. Actor Yara Shahidi is 23.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Friday, Feb. 10, the 41st day of 2023. There are 330 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On Feb. 10, 1962, the Soviet Union exchanged captured American U-2 pilot Francis Gary Powers for Rudolf Abel, a Soviet spy held by the United States.On this date:In 1763, Britain, Spain and France signed the Treaty of Paris, ending the Seven Years' War (also known as the French and Indian War in North America).In 1840, Britain's Queen Victoria married Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha.In 1936, Nazi Germany's Reichstag passed a law investing the Gestapo secret police with absolute authority, exempt from any legal review.In 1959, a major tornado tore through the St. Louis area, killing 21 people and causing heavy damage.In 1967, the 25th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, dealing with presidential disability and succession, was ratified as Minnesota and Nevada adopted it.In 1981, eight people were killed when a fire set by a busboy broke out at the Las Vegas Hilton hotel-casino.In 1989, Ron Brown was elected the first Black chairman of the Democratic National Committee.In 1992, boxer Mike Tyson was convicted in Indianapolis of raping Desiree Washington, a Miss Black America contestant. (Tyson served three years in prison.) "Roots" author Alex Haley died in Seattle at age 70.In 1996, world chess champion Garry Kasparov lost the first game of a match in Philadelphia against an IBM computer dubbed "Deep Blue." (Kasparov ended up winning the match, 4 games to 2; he was defeated by Deep Blue in a rematch the following year.)In 2005, North Korea boasted publicly for the first time that it possessed nuclear weapons.In 2015, NBC announced it was suspending Brian Williams as "Nightly News" anchor and managing editor for six months without pay for misleading the public about his experiences covering the Iraq War. Jon Stewart announced he would step down as host of "The Daily Show" on Comedy Central later in the year.In 2020, U.S. health officials confirmed the first case of the novel coronavirus among the hundreds of people who'd been evacuated from China to military bases in the United States; it was among the 13 confirmed cases in the U.S. Britain declared the new coronavirus a "serious and imminent threat to public health" and said people with the virus could now be forcibly quarantined.Ten years ago: Joe Paterno's family released its response to Penn State's report on the Jerry Sandusky scandal, attacking Louis Freeh's conclusion that the coach hid sex abuse allegations against his longtime assistant. Marine Gen. Joseph Dunford took charge of U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan. At the Grammy Awards, Fun. won song of the year for "We Are Young"; Gotye's "Somebody I Used to Know" picked up record of the year.Five years ago: Israel carried out a wave of airstrikes in Syria that were ordered after Israel intercepted an Iranian drone that had infiltrated its airspace; it was the most serious Israeli engagement in Syria since the war erupted there almost seven years earlier. In a tweet that appeared to take aim at the rising #MeToo movement, President Donald Trump wrote that "lives are being shattered and destroyed by a mere allegation;" the tweet came in the aftermath of the resignation of a pivotal aide, Rob Porter, who'd been accused of abusing two ex-wives. The Korean women's hockey team, the first in Olympic history to combine players from the North and South, lost its debut game, 8-0, to Switzerland before a cheering, chanting sellout crowd at the Winter Olympics in South Korea.One year ago: The U.S. Labor Department revealed that inflation over the past year had soared at its highest rate in forty years. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the Ukraine crisis has grown into "the most dangerous moment" for Europe in decades, while his top diplomat held icy talks with her Moscow counterpart who said the Kremlin wouldn't accept lectures from the West.Today's birthdays: Opera singer Leontyne Price is 96. Actor Robert Wagner is 93. Singer Roberta Flack is 86. Singer Jimmy Merchant (Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers) is 83. Rock musician Bob Spalding (The Ventures) is 76. Olympic gold-medal swimmer Mark Spitz is 73. Walt Disney Co. executive Robert Iger is 72. Rock musician and composer Cory Lerios (Pablo Cruise) is 72. World Golf Hall of Famer Greg Norman is 68. Actor Kathleen Beller is 67. Country singer Lionel Cartwright is 63. Movie director Alexander Payne is 62. ABC News correspondent George Stephanopoulos is 62. Political commentator Glenn Beck is 59. Actor Laura Dern is 56. Writer-producer-director Vince Gilligan (TV: "Breaking Bad") is 56. Country singer Dude Mowrey is 51. Actor Jason Olive is 51. Actor Elizabeth Banks is 49. Actor Julia Pace Mitchell is 45. Reggaeton singer Don Omar is 45. Actor Uzo Aduba is 42. Actor Stephanie Beatriz is 42. Actor Max Brown is 42. Actor Barry Sloane is 42. Rock singer Eric Dill is 41. Actor Trevante Rhodes is 33. Actor Emma Roberts is 32. Actor Makenzie Vega is 29. Actor Chloe Grace Moretz is 26. Actor Yara Shahidi is 23.

Today in History - Feb. 10

From the American Red Cross:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675992621880.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Red Cross schedules blood drive in Salina

Get yourself downtown Friday morning for the announcement of SculptureTour Salina's 2022 People's Choice Award winner.

And if you can't make it downtown, you can watch the announcement via Facebook Live on the Salina Downtown, Inc. Facebook page.

The announcement is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. Friday on the northeast corner of the N. Santa Fe Avenue-E. Iron Avenue intersection in downtown Salina.

By SALINA POSTGet yourself downtown Friday morning for the announcement of SculptureTour Salina's 2022 People's Choice Award winner.And if you can't make it downtown, you can watch the announcement via Facebook Live on the Salina Downtown, Inc. Facebook page.The announcement is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. Friday on the northeast corner of the N. Santa Fe Avenue-E. Iron Avenue intersection in downtown Salina.

SculptureTour Salina to announce People's Choice Award winner

Governor Laura Kelly mentioned Kansas’ water crisis in her 2023 State of the State Address, but so far she has proposed few specific policies to alleviate the problem.&nbsp; Will this be the year that Kansas policymakers step up?

Some 90 years ago, the state endured the catastrophic Dust Bowl from 1931 to 1939.&nbsp; This tragedy was not caused by drought alone.&nbsp; The Dust Bowl was aided and abetted by the removal of natural grasslands for farmland.&nbsp; Tilling the soil made it vulnerable to drought and wind, and much of the topsoil blew away.&nbsp; Agricultural policies during the New Deal era aimed to prevent a second disaster.&nbsp; They included planting trees as windbreaks, offering incentives for low- and no-till farming, paying farmers to leave land fallow on a rotating basis, and the creation of soil and water conservation districts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today, we face a similar crisis with the High Plains Aquifer.&nbsp; Discovered in the late 1800s, the Aquifer is the reason why much of today’s agriculture in Western Kansas, Nebraska, and Oklahoma is possible.&nbsp; Large-scale reliance on the Aquifer followed, with center-pivot irrigation becoming popular by the late Twentieth Century.&nbsp; Once known as the “Great American Desert,” suddenly this land could support non-drought resistant crops including soybeans and corn, in addition to winter wheat, which was already being grown there. In those earlier days, there were minimal limitations on how much water could be pumped and the level fell accordingly. &nbsp; Rainfall amounts vary greatly from year to year, and water levels vary in different places, but on balance, the water levels in the Aquifer have been falling for some time.&nbsp; Agriculture accounts for 94% of groundwater use in Kansas, according to the Kansas Geological Survey.

Thirty-seven years ago, author Marc Reisner’s 1986 book Cadillac Desert concluded that the Aquifer would one day reach a level where no more water could be pumped, effectively shutting down most agriculture in and around Western Kansas.&nbsp; Reisner also chronicled various proposals, some of which were downright bizarre, such as making entire rivers flow in the opposite direction.&nbsp; Wisely, policymakers rejected such foolishness.&nbsp; Not so wisely, they chose instead to implement only limited solutions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today, climate change complicates the problem further.&nbsp; Droughts have become more common, and average temperatures around here have risen by 1.5 degrees.&nbsp; Hotter temperatures mean more evaporation.&nbsp; Rainfall patterns throughout the year are changing, necessitating more adaptations.

Unfortunately, our farmers still face strong incentives to pump as much water as possible.&nbsp; Water rights have been set for well users for some time, but regulation and compliance are complicated.&nbsp; Droplines reduce lost water from center-pivot systems, but they are not enough without additional changes such as increased crop rotation.&nbsp; The United States continues to overproduce corn, a water-intensive, heat-sensitive crop that is not the best fit for Western Kansas’ climate, though newer farm legislation has begun to move away from that.&nbsp; Other waterways are threatened, too.

Without strong, bipartisan leadership, this issue could be yet another one sucked into our country’s wider culture wars, sowing distrust and making it harder to reach agreements between farmers and other conservation advocates.&nbsp; That would be a shame.&nbsp; Kansas farmers proudly help feed the world.&nbsp; The decisions we make today will decide if they can do so in the future.

Michael A. Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639601062071.jpeg" alt="Michael A. Smith" />
 <figcaption>Michael A. Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHAEL A. SMITHGovernor Laura Kelly mentioned Kansas’ water crisis in her 2023 State of the State Address, but so far she has proposed few specific policies to alleviate the problem.&nbsp; Will this be the year that Kansas policymakers step up?Some 90 years ago, the state endured the catastrophic Dust Bowl from 1931 to 1939.&nbsp; This tragedy was not caused by drought alone.&nbsp; The Dust Bowl was aided and abetted by the removal of natural grasslands for farmland.&nbsp; Tilling the soil made it vulnerable to drought and wind, and much of the topsoil blew away.&nbsp; Agricultural policies during the New Deal era aimed to prevent a second disaster.&nbsp; They included planting trees as windbreaks, offering incentives for low- and no-till farming, paying farmers to leave land fallow on a rotating basis, and the creation of soil and water conservation districts.&nbsp;&nbsp;Today, we face a similar crisis with the High Plains Aquifer.&nbsp; Discovered in the late 1800s, the Aquifer is the reason why much of today’s agriculture in Western Kansas, Nebraska, and Oklahoma is possible.&nbsp; Large-scale reliance on the Aquifer followed, with center-pivot irrigation becoming popular by the late Twentieth Century.&nbsp; Once known as the “Great American Desert,” suddenly this land could support non-drought resistant crops including soybeans and corn, in addition to winter wheat, which was already being grown there. In those earlier days, there were minimal limitations on how much water could be pumped and the level fell accordingly. &nbsp; Rainfall amounts vary greatly from year to year, and water levels vary in different places, but on balance, the water levels in the Aquifer have been falling for some time.&nbsp; Agriculture accounts for 94% of groundwater use in Kansas, according to the Kansas Geological Survey.Thirty-seven years ago, author Marc Reisner’s 1986 book Cadillac Desert concluded that the Aquifer would one day reach a level where no more water could be pumped, effectively shutting down most agriculture in and around Western Kansas.&nbsp; Reisner also chronicled various proposals, some of which were downright bizarre, such as making entire rivers flow in the opposite direction.&nbsp; Wisely, policymakers rejected such foolishness.&nbsp; Not so wisely, they chose instead to implement only limited solutions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Today, climate change complicates the problem further.&nbsp; Droughts have become more common, and average temperatures around here have risen by 1.5 degrees.&nbsp; Hotter temperatures mean more evaporation.&nbsp; Rainfall patterns throughout the year are changing, necessitating more adaptations.Unfortunately, our farmers still face strong incentives to pump as much water as possible.&nbsp; Water rights have been set for well users for some time, but regulation and compliance are complicated.&nbsp; Droplines reduce lost water from center-pivot systems, but they are not enough without additional changes such as increased crop rotation.&nbsp; The United States continues to overproduce corn, a water-intensive, heat-sensitive crop that is not the best fit for Western Kansas’ climate, though newer farm legislation has begun to move away from that.&nbsp; Other waterways are threatened, too.Without strong, bipartisan leadership, this issue could be yet another one sucked into our country’s wider culture wars, sowing distrust and making it harder to reach agreements between farmers and other conservation advocates.&nbsp; That would be a shame.&nbsp; Kansas farmers proudly help feed the world.&nbsp; The decisions we make today will decide if they can do so in the future.Michael A. Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Not a drop to drink

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are asking the public for assistance in locating 54-year-old Patrick Paul Woodcox.

He is wanted for a Saline County District Court felony arrest warrant on charges&nbsp; of Aggravated Robbery and Aggravated Battery, according to the Saline County Sheriff's Office. He had a previous conviction for aggravated robbery in Lyon County, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

 Woodcox was last known to live in the Abilene area. He is described as 5-foot- 10, 230 pounds with green eyes and brown hair.

The sheriff's office warned the public to not attempt to apprehend him. 

If you know his location in Abilene or Dickinson County, contact the Abilene Police Department at 785-263-1213 or the Dickinson County Sheriff's Office at 785-263-4081.  If outside of Dickinson County, please call the Salina Police Department Dispatch at 785-826-7210, the Saline County Sheriff's Office at 785-826-6500 or Crimestoppers at 785-825-TIPS or TEXT SATIPS to CRIMES (274637). 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675961380237.png" alt="Patrick Paul Woodcox. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Patrick Paul Woodcox. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are asking the public for assistance in locating 54-year-old Patrick Paul Woodcox.He is wanted for a Saline County District Court felony arrest warrant on charges&nbsp; of Aggravated Robbery and Aggravated Battery, according to the Saline County Sheriff's Office. He had a previous conviction for aggravated robbery in Lyon County, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections. Woodcox was last known to live in the Abilene area. He is described as 5-foot- 10, 230 pounds with green eyes and brown hair.The sheriff's office warned the public to not attempt to apprehend him. If you know his location in Abilene or Dickinson County, contact the Abilene Police Department at 785-263-1213 or the Dickinson County Sheriff's Office at 785-263-4081. If outside of Dickinson County, please call the Salina Police Department Dispatch at 785-826-7210, the Saline County Sheriff's Office at 785-826-6500 or Crimestoppers at 785-825-TIPS or TEXT SATIPS to CRIMES (274637).

Sheriff asks for help to locate wanted robbery suspect

Three Salina residents have been arrested in connection to the shooting death of Dylan Eugene Garman.

The Salina Police Department announced today that Dalton Levi Palmer, 29, of Salina, Dakota Wayne Bunting, 24, of Salina, and Tataum Elois Escamilla, 19, of Salina, all have been arrested in connection to the shooting death of Garman, 25, of Salina.

At approximately 3:20 a.m. on May 7, 2022, officers were dispatched to the 400 block of S. College Avenue in Salina for a report of several gunshots in the area. Although they located multiple spent ammunition casings in the street at that location, officers did not find any victims or witnesses at the scene, the department noted in a news release.

That same morning, at 3:23 a.m., officers were dispatched to the emergency department of Salina Regional Health Center, 400 S. Santa Fe Avenue, for the report of two gunshot victims there: an 18-year-old woman and a 25-year-old man. The man, who was pronounced deceased by medical staff, was later identified as Garman.

At 3:34 a.m. on May 7, 2022, officers were sent to a residence in the 500 block of E. Cloud Street in Salina for the report of a person lying in the front yard who had been shot multiple times. Officers located a 23-year-old man who had multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported by EMS to Salina Regional where he underwent emergency surgery. He later was transferred to a hospital in Wichita, the Salina Police Department noted.

Also on May 7, 2022, police identified Palmer as a person of interest and warned the public that due to Palmer's past criminal behavior, he should be considered armed and dangerous. Palmer was located at a north Salina residence and arrested by agents of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation on Jan. 31, the Salina Police Department noted in a news release issued Wednesday afternoon.

Additionally, Escamilla was arrested by U.S. Marshals in Benton County, Ark., on Feb. 1 and Bunting was arrested by U.S. Marshals in Bryant County, Okla., on Monday, according to information provided today by the Salina Police Department.

"The Salina Police Department would like to thank the public, the U.S. Marshals, and Kansas Bureau of Investigation for their assistance with this investigation," the Salina Police Department noted.

Following are the requested charges for each individual as provided by the Salina Police Department.

Criminal discharge of a firearm at an occupied vehicle

Criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostThree Salina residents have been arrested in connection to the shooting death of Dylan Eugene Garman.The Salina Police Department announced today that Dalton Levi Palmer, 29, of Salina, Dakota Wayne Bunting, 24, of Salina, and Tataum Elois Escamilla, 19, of Salina, all have been arrested in connection to the shooting death of Garman, 25, of Salina.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675262559179.jpeg" alt="Dalton Levi Palmer. Photos courtesy Salina Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Dalton Levi Palmer. Photos courtesy Salina Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675889245921.png" alt="Dakota Wayne Bunting" />
 <figcaption>Dakota Wayne Bunting</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675889269229.png" alt="Tataum Elois Escamilla" />
 <figcaption>Tataum Elois Escamilla</figcaption>
 </figure>At approximately 3:20 a.m. on May 7, 2022, officers were dispatched to the 400 block of S. College Avenue in Salina for a report of several gunshots in the area. Although they located multiple spent ammunition casings in the street at that location, officers did not find any victims or witnesses at the scene, the department noted in a news release.That same morning, at 3:23 a.m., officers were dispatched to the emergency department of Salina Regional Health Center, 400 S. Santa Fe Avenue, for the report of two gunshot victims there: an 18-year-old woman and a 25-year-old man. The man, who was pronounced deceased by medical staff, was later identified as Garman.At 3:34 a.m. on May 7, 2022, officers were sent to a residence in the 500 block of E. Cloud Street in Salina for the report of a person lying in the front yard who had been shot multiple times. Officers located a 23-year-old man who had multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported by EMS to Salina Regional where he underwent emergency surgery. He later was transferred to a hospital in Wichita, the Salina Police Department noted.Also on May 7, 2022, police identified Palmer as a person of interest and warned the public that due to Palmer's past criminal behavior, he should be considered armed and dangerous. Palmer was located at a north Salina residence and arrested by agents of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation on Jan. 31, the Salina Police Department noted in a news release issued Wednesday afternoon.Additionally, Escamilla was arrested by U.S. Marshals in Benton County, Ark., on Feb. 1 and Bunting was arrested by U.S. Marshals in Bryant County, Okla., on Monday, according to information provided today by the Salina Police Department."The Salina Police Department would like to thank the public, the U.S. Marshals, and Kansas Bureau of Investigation for their assistance with this investigation," the Salina Police Department noted.Following are the requested charges for each individual as provided by the Salina Police Department.Dalton Levi PalmerFirst degree murderAttempted first degree murderCriminal discharge of a firearm at an occupied vehicleDakota Wayne BuntingVoluntary manslaughterCriminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felonUnlawful possession of marijuanaTataum Elois EscamillaFirst degree murderAttempted first degree murder

Three Salinans arrested in connection to Garman shooting death

Police are investigating an incident in which windows at six adjoining businesses were damaged in downtown Salina.

The six businesses are in a building in the 100 block of S. Seventh Street that is owned by Neustrom and Associates. The windows were believed to be damaged midday on Jan. 23, but the incident was just recently reported, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.

Windows at three of the businesses - Action Travel, Inc., McKenna Law Office PA, and Salina Liberty - will need to be replaced, he said. The other windows can be repaired.

The total estimate for replacement/repair is $4,400.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice are investigating an incident in which windows at six adjoining businesses were damaged in downtown Salina.The six businesses are in a building in the 100 block of S. Seventh Street that is owned by Neustrom and Associates. The windows were believed to be damaged midday on Jan. 23, but the incident was just recently reported, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning.Windows at three of the businesses - Action Travel, Inc., McKenna Law Office PA, and Salina Liberty - will need to be replaced, he said. The other windows can be repaired.The total estimate for replacement/repair is $4,400.

Windows damaged at six downtown Salina businesses

Online scammers have gotten so sneaky lately that it’s not just your elderly grandparents at risk—boomers, millennials and even Gen Z-ers can get taken advantage of if they’re not careful. That’s because these shady weirdos keep switching up their scamming tactics based on current events and our constantly changing digital culture.

But the good news is, if you keep your guard up and follow these tips, you’ll be way more likely to spot the scam and hold on to your hard-earned money. Here are five of the biggest internet scams to be aware of right now.

Crypto continues to be a trendy thing for the people who enjoy the thrill (and anxiety) of losing money at any given moment. And much like gambling, it can be addictive—a fact that scammers take advantage of. Cryptocurrency scams can happen in all kinds of ways. Scammers might set up fake websites that look like popular crypto sites in an attempt to get innocent people to send them money. They might also prey on people’s fears of missing out on an investment with massive returns by creating a fake early investment opportunity and pitching it to people online.

Scammers know people are desperate to get their loans forgiven, and they’ll often make fake forgiveness application sites in hopes of stealing people’s social security numbers, bank account info and cash. And because these people have absolutely no shame, these sites are often paired with urgent phone messages or emails trying to convince broke college grads it’s their last chance to apply.

Nothing can make you broke like the fluttery feelings of love—and with the growing popularity of online dating, this kind of scam is becoming more and more common. Someone creates a fake dating profile, reels in an unsuspecting victim, steals their heart with witty banter, and asks them to send money or buy them stuff due to some weird circumstance. This sucks because the poor scammee (that’s what I’m calling someone who was scammed—just go with it) loses out on cash&nbsp;and&nbsp;a chance at true love.

If you buy something online and it never shows up, you might be a victim of this type of scam. Scammers will often “sell” stuff on sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace, or set up fake online storefronts, take your money, then never deliver what you ordered. Don’t get me wrong, I love Facebook Marketplace as much as the next guy, but you have to be extra careful.

Scammers have figured out how to make almost identical copies of certain popular apps in order to get your money via in-app purchases. They’ll even create apps that steal your personal info once you download them. Triple-check that you’re getting the legit version of well-known apps, and think twice about downloading apps you’re unfamiliar with.

Also, beware of payment apps, like Zelle. Recently, there have been some situations where scammers claim to be the bank’s fraud department and call or text you to walk you through the problem. They’ll tell you to fix it by sending yourself money, but the money goes to their account instead, with little to no way of preventing it on your end.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636603961231.jpeg" alt="George Kamel" />
 <figcaption>George Kamel</figcaption>
 </figure>By GEORGE KAMELOnline scammers have gotten so sneaky lately that it’s not just your elderly grandparents at risk—boomers, millennials and even Gen Z-ers can get taken advantage of if they’re not careful. That’s because these shady weirdos keep switching up their scamming tactics based on current events and our constantly changing digital culture.But the good news is, if you keep your guard up and follow these tips, you’ll be way more likely to spot the scam and hold on to your hard-earned money. Here are five of the biggest internet scams to be aware of right now.Cryptocurrency ScamsCrypto continues to be a trendy thing for the people who enjoy the thrill (and anxiety) of losing money at any given moment. And much like gambling, it can be addictive—a fact that scammers take advantage of. Cryptocurrency scams can happen in all kinds of ways. Scammers might set up fake websites that look like popular crypto sites in an attempt to get innocent people to send them money. They might also prey on people’s fears of missing out on an investment with massive returns by creating a fake early investment opportunity and pitching it to people online.Student Loan Forgiveness ScamsScammers know people are desperate to get their loans forgiven, and they’ll often make fake forgiveness application sites in hopes of stealing people’s social security numbers, bank account info and cash. And because these people have absolutely no shame, these sites are often paired with urgent phone messages or emails trying to convince broke college grads it’s their last chance to apply.Romance ScamsNothing can make you broke like the fluttery feelings of love—and with the growing popularity of online dating, this kind of scam is becoming more and more common. Someone creates a fake dating profile, reels in an unsuspecting victim, steals their heart with witty banter, and asks them to send money or buy them stuff due to some weird circumstance. This sucks because the poor scammee (that’s what I’m calling someone who was scammed—just go with it) loses out on cash&nbsp;and&nbsp;a chance at true love.Online Purchase ScamsIf you buy something online and it never shows up, you might be a victim of this type of scam. Scammers will often “sell” stuff on sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace, or set up fake online storefronts, take your money, then never deliver what you ordered. Don’t get me wrong, I love Facebook Marketplace as much as the next guy, but you have to be extra careful.App ScamsScammers have figured out how to make almost identical copies of certain popular apps in order to get your money via in-app purchases. They’ll even create apps that steal your personal info once you download them. Triple-check that you’re getting the legit version of well-known apps, and think twice about downloading apps you’re unfamiliar with.Also, beware of payment apps, like Zelle. Recently, there have been some situations where scammers claim to be the bank’s fraud department and call or text you to walk you through the problem. They’ll tell you to fix it by sending yourself money, but the money goes to their account instead, with little to no way of preventing it on your end.Okay, so we’ve talked through a few internet scams you need to be aware of. Now let’s talk about four keys to steering clear of them:Change your passwordsIt’s a good idea to change passwords for important accounts (like email, social media, bank accounts, etc.) every 90 days. And make them hard to guess by using combinations of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters. Even better, make your password a phrase and switch up some of the letters and characters. For example, I might pick the phrase Dog Dad Life, but in password form that could be D0gDadL1fe!Also, if you ever get notified about a data breach, that means your password could’ve been leaked and you should change it&nbsp;immediately&nbsp;to be safe. While you’re at it, set up two-factor authentication on every possible password—this creates an extra layer of security and makes it way harder for scammers and hackers to get your personal info.Pay attention to your emailsTake a close look at the email subject line and sender before opening an email. And if you get an email from an address you’re unfamiliar with, don’t click on&nbsp;any&nbsp;links until you know more about where it came from—especially if you’re being told you won $2 million. Be extra cautious of people asking for personal information or anything money-related. When in doubt, mark it as spam.Check your online bank account every dayMost banks will let you know if they see any suspicious activity in your account, but in case they miss anything, it’s still super important to log in every day to make sure there aren’t any weird charges. You’re in charge of your money, so think of yourself like your own personal armored guard with those aviator sunglasses. You can even pretend you have a cool van and everything.Trust your gutIf something or someone online seems&nbsp;off&nbsp;to you, listen to that Spidey-Sense. That goes for websites, iPads you might’ve won, and potential spouses. When in doubt, don’t click on or agree to anything that seems suspicious. And if you’re having a hard time telling if something’s a scam or not, have someone else weigh in. Better safe than sorry!One of the biggest reasons it’s important to protect yourself against scams is because scammers can take this one step further by trying to steal your whole identity and use it for their own personal (and financial) gain. Check out&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/insurance/protect-yourself-from-identity-theft" target="_blank">this article</a>&nbsp;for more tips on steering clear of sleazy situations like this.George Kamelis a personal finance expert with a countercultural approach to money. He’s the host of The Fine Print podcast and The EntreLeadership Podcast on the Ramsey Network. Since 2013, George has served at Ramsey Solutions, where his goal is to help people spend less, save more, and avoid consumer traps so they can make the most of their money. Follow George on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgeKamel?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/georgekamel/?hl=en" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/OfficialGeorgeKamel" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or find out more about him online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/personalities" target="_blank">ramseysolutions.com/personalities</a>.

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