Salina Police Department officers arrested a 21-year-old man Tuesday evening after he allegedly assaulted an 11-year-old boy during a recreational basketball game at Oakdale Elementary School’s playground.

According to Salina Police Capt. James Feldman, officers were dispatched to 811 E. Iron Ave. at approximately 6:15 p.m. on Feb. 25 for a report of a battery. Upon arrival, officers made contact with two 11-year-old boys and a 12-year-old boy.

The juveniles reported they had been playing basketball with a man later identified as River Norberg, 21. During the game, an exchange of “trash talk” escalated, and Norberg allegedly tackled one of the 11-year-olds, putting him in a chokehold that restricted his breathing. A 12-year-old boy intervened and pulled Norberg off the victim, but Norberg allegedly attacked the 11-year-old again, placing him in another chokehold.

The 11-year-old also sustained a scratch above his right eye and reported that Norberg struck him several times on the top of his head. The other two juveniles managed to pull Norberg off the victim before he fled the scene, according to police.

Salina Post is working to verify the nature of the relationship between the juveniles and Norberg.

Officers located Norberg several blocks away and took him into custody without incident. He was booked into jail on a charge of aggravated battery.

The juveniles were released to their parents.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740578266773.jpeg" alt=" Norberg,River Daniels" />
 <figcaption> Norberg,River Daniels</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POST Salina Police Department officers arrested a 21-year-old man Tuesday evening after he allegedly assaulted an 11-year-old boy during a recreational basketball game at Oakdale Elementary School’s playground.According to Salina Police Capt. James Feldman, officers were dispatched to 811 E. Iron Ave. at approximately 6:15 p.m. on Feb. 25 for a report of a battery. Upon arrival, officers made contact with two 11-year-old boys and a 12-year-old boy.The juveniles reported they had been playing basketball with a man later identified as River Norberg, 21. During the game, an exchange of “trash talk” escalated, and Norberg allegedly tackled one of the 11-year-olds, putting him in a chokehold that restricted his breathing. A 12-year-old boy intervened and pulled Norberg off the victim, but Norberg allegedly attacked the 11-year-old again, placing him in another chokehold.The 11-year-old also sustained a scratch above his right eye and reported that Norberg struck him several times on the top of his head. The other two juveniles managed to pull Norberg off the victim before he fled the scene, according to police.Salina Post is working to verify the nature of the relationship between the juveniles and Norberg.Officers located Norberg several blocks away and took him into custody without incident. He was booked into jail on a charge of aggravated battery.The juveniles were released to their parents.

Salina man arrested after alleged assault on juveniles at Oakdale Elementary playground

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.

NAME:&nbsp;Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance

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

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Failure to appear (2x)

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/2025/2/1740577768286.jpeg" alt=" Anderson,Brian James" />
 <figcaption> Anderson,Brian James</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Anderson,Brian JamesREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740577864230.jpeg" alt="Arellano Calzada,Manuel Alejando" />
 <figcaption>Arellano Calzada,Manuel Alejando</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstanceREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740577951762.jpeg" alt=" Ellegood,Lance Montgomery" />
 <figcaption> Ellegood,Lance Montgomery</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Ellegood,Lance MontgomeryREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740578005557.jpeg" alt=" Enloe,Emily Kristyne" />
 <figcaption> Enloe,Emily Kristyne</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Enloe,Emily KristyneREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740578096570.jpeg" alt="Graybeal,Stacy Lynn" />
 <figcaption>Graybeal,Stacy Lynn</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Graybeal,Stacy Lynn REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740578201171.jpeg" alt="Kirkbride,Anthony James" />
 <figcaption>Kirkbride,Anthony James</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Kirkbride,Anthony JamesREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740578266773.jpeg" alt=" Norberg,River Daniels" />
 <figcaption> Norberg,River Daniels</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Norberg,River DanielsAgg Battery; Unknown CircumstanceDisorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740578329228.jpeg" alt="Roth,Caleb Lee" />
 <figcaption>Roth,Caleb Lee</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Roth,Caleb LeeREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Failure to appear (2x)<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740578372930.jpeg" alt="Sanchez,Adan" />
 <figcaption>Sanchez,Adan</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Sanchez,AdanREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appearFailure to appearOutside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740578426140.jpeg" alt="Turner,Ricky Lee" />
 <figcaption>Turner,Ricky Lee</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Turner,Ricky LeeREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740578501263.jpeg" alt=" Ward,Nathanial Bishop" />
 <figcaption> Ward,Nathanial Bishop</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Ward,Nathanial BishopREQUESTED CHARGE(S): failure to appear

Saline County Jail Bookings, Feb. 26

By SALINA POST One person was injured in an accident just before 9:30a.m. Tuesday in Morris County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Peterbilt semi driven by Robert Leroy Dauer, 74, Marquette, was eastbound on U.S. 56 approximately six miles east of Herington.

The vehicle crossed the center lane into the westbound lane. The driver was&nbsp;unable to gain control of the semi and rolled and came to rest on its side across both eastbound and westbound lanes of U.S. 56.

EMS transported Dauer to the Marion County Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

By SALINA POST One person was injured in an accident just before 9:30a.m. Tuesday in Morris County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Peterbilt semi driven by Robert Leroy Dauer, 74, Marquette, was eastbound on U.S. 56 approximately six miles east of Herington.The vehicle crossed the center lane into the westbound lane. The driver was&nbsp;unable to gain control of the semi and rolled and came to rest on its side across both eastbound and westbound lanes of U.S. 56.EMS transported Dauer to the Marion County Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after semi rolls

The A&amp;SV’s Smoky Valley Limited is set to host its second annual St. Patrick’s Day Express on Saturday, March 15. The festive train departs Abilene’s Rock Island Depot at 6:00 p.m. for a two-hour journey through the scenic Smoky Hill River Valley.

In a unique way to mark St. Patrick’s Day, the event will transform three vintage dining cars into a green-themed celebration complete with Irish-inspired fare, live Irish music, and plenty of festive cheer.&nbsp;

Attendees can choose from two hearty meal options prepared by Chef Scott Sieben of Kites in Aggieville Manhattan. The menu features a choice between corned beef and hash with candied carrots and peas, or bangers and mash with peas, brown gravy, and candied carrots. For dessert, guests will be treated to Guinness brownies. In addition to coffee, tea, and water, there will be an option to enjoy an ice-cold beer or a glass of wine.

Participants are encouraged to wear green and embrace the fun, as organizers promise an unforgettable celebration on the rails.

Tickets and seating are available on the event website at <a href="http://asvrr.org">asvrr.org</a>, so be sure to reserve your spot early for this festive journey.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737644062216.jpeg" alt=" Abilene Smoky Valley Railroad (A&amp;SVR) volunteer, Steve Smethers" />
 <figcaption> Abilene Smoky Valley Railroad (A&amp;SVR) volunteer, Steve Smethers</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe A&amp;SV’s Smoky Valley Limited is set to host its second annual St. Patrick’s Day Express on Saturday, March 15. The festive train departs Abilene’s Rock Island Depot at 6:00 p.m. for a two-hour journey through the scenic Smoky Hill River Valley.In a unique way to mark St. Patrick’s Day, the event will transform three vintage dining cars into a green-themed celebration complete with Irish-inspired fare, live Irish music, and plenty of festive cheer.&nbsp;<h2>The leprechauns made us do it!</h2>Attendees can choose from two hearty meal options prepared by Chef Scott Sieben of Kites in Aggieville Manhattan. The menu features a choice between corned beef and hash with candied carrots and peas, or bangers and mash with peas, brown gravy, and candied carrots. For dessert, guests will be treated to Guinness brownies. In addition to coffee, tea, and water, there will be an option to enjoy an ice-cold beer or a glass of wine.Participants are encouraged to wear green and embrace the fun, as organizers promise an unforgettable celebration on the rails. Tickets and seating are available on the event website at <a href="http://asvrr.org">asvrr.org</a>, so be sure to reserve your spot early for this festive journey.

A&SV hosts St. Patrick’s Day celebration on the rails

The Salina Senior Theatre Project (SSTP) is holding auditions for the upcoming spring production, Grandmothers Incorporated. Auditions will take place Monday, March 3, and Tuesday, March 4, at 7 p.m. at the Hawthorne, located at 715 North 9th Street.

The production, which promises a blend of suspense and humor, follows the misadventures of four friends who embark on a vacation in the woods. However, things take a wild turn when they arrive at the wrong cabin and discover a man tied up in the closet—a man who turns out to be a drug lord. What follows is a chaotic and hilarious display of senior vigilante justice.

There are four female roles and two male roles available for this production. Auditions are open to anyone aged 55 or older, regardless of prior theatre experience.

For scripts or additional information, interested participants can call 785-502-0017.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740506162515.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Salina Senior Theatre Project (SSTP) is holding auditions for the upcoming spring production, Grandmothers Incorporated. Auditions will take place Monday, March 3, and Tuesday, March 4, at 7 p.m. at the Hawthorne, located at 715 North 9th Street.The production, which promises a blend of suspense and humor, follows the misadventures of four friends who embark on a vacation in the woods. However, things take a wild turn when they arrive at the wrong cabin and discover a man tied up in the closet—a man who turns out to be a drug lord. What follows is a chaotic and hilarious display of senior vigilante justice.There are four female roles and two male roles available for this production. Auditions are open to anyone aged 55 or older, regardless of prior theatre experience.For scripts or additional information, interested participants can call 785-502-0017.

Auditions open for SSTP spring production ‘Grandmothers Incorporated’

The Stiefel Theatre is set to host a comedy extravaganza featuring multi-platinum recording artist, Grammy nominee, and Billboard award-winning comedian Larry the Cable Guy. The event, titled An Evening With Larry the Cable Guy, will take place on Friday, June 27, at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets for the highly anticipated evening start at $88 and will go on sale at 10 a.m. on Friday, February 28. Guests can purchase tickets in person at the Stiefel Theatre Box Office or online by visiting <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org/">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>.

Larry the Cable Guy, famous for his signature catchphrase “Git-R-Done,” has built a formidable reputation as one of the nation’s top comedians. In addition to his live performances, he is well known for his philanthropic work through The Git-R-Done Foundation, which has contributed over $8.1 million to various charities.

In recent years, Larry’s star has shone brightly on multiple platforms. His latest comedy special, Remain Seated, is currently streaming on Netflix, and he has showcased his vocal talents on FOX’s The Masked Singer under the moniker “Baby.” Fans can also enjoy his Netflix collaboration with Jeff Foxworthy, We’ve Been Thinking. Moreover, Larry co-founded the SiriusXM comedy channel “Jeff and Larry’s Comedy Roundup,” which spotlights the best in American stand-up.

Beyond his stand-up career, Larry has also lent his voice to the beloved character Mater in Disney/Pixar’s Cars franchise, including Cars (2006), Cars 2 (2011), Cars 3 (2017), and the Disney+ series Cars on the Road. The franchise has grossed over $1 billion worldwide, cementing his status as a pop culture icon.

Larry’s film and television credits are equally impressive, with roles in Jingle All The Way 2, A Madea Christmas, Tooth Fairy 2, Witless Protection, Delta Farce, and Larry the Cable Guy: Health Inspector—the latter selling over 1 million DVD copies in its first week. His television work includes hosting History’s series Only in America with Larry the Cable Guy and starring in CMT’s animated show Bounty Hunters alongside Jeff Foxworthy and Bill Engvall.

Fans can look forward to an unforgettable night of laughter as Larry continues his nationwide tour and gears up to release a brand-new comedy special in 2025 featuring all-new material. Don’t miss your chance to see this comedy legend live in Salina.

For more details and to secure your tickets, visit <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org/">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740505897156.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe Stiefel Theatre is set to host a comedy extravaganza featuring multi-platinum recording artist, Grammy nominee, and Billboard award-winning comedian Larry the Cable Guy. The event, titled An Evening With Larry the Cable Guy, will take place on Friday, June 27, at 7:30 p.m.Tickets for the highly anticipated evening start at $88 and will go on sale at 10 a.m. on Friday, February 28. Guests can purchase tickets in person at the Stiefel Theatre Box Office or online by visiting <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org/">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>.Larry the Cable Guy, famous for his signature catchphrase “Git-R-Done,” has built a formidable reputation as one of the nation’s top comedians. In addition to his live performances, he is well known for his philanthropic work through The Git-R-Done Foundation, which has contributed over $8.1 million to various charities.In recent years, Larry’s star has shone brightly on multiple platforms. His latest comedy special, Remain Seated, is currently streaming on Netflix, and he has showcased his vocal talents on FOX’s The Masked Singer under the moniker “Baby.” Fans can also enjoy his Netflix collaboration with Jeff Foxworthy, We’ve Been Thinking. Moreover, Larry co-founded the SiriusXM comedy channel “Jeff and Larry’s Comedy Roundup,” which spotlights the best in American stand-up.Beyond his stand-up career, Larry has also lent his voice to the beloved character Mater in Disney/Pixar’s Cars franchise, including Cars (2006), Cars 2 (2011), Cars 3 (2017), and the Disney+ series Cars on the Road. The franchise has grossed over $1 billion worldwide, cementing his status as a pop culture icon.Larry’s film and television credits are equally impressive, with roles in Jingle All The Way 2, A Madea Christmas, Tooth Fairy 2, Witless Protection, Delta Farce, and Larry the Cable Guy: Health Inspector—the latter selling over 1 million DVD copies in its first week. His television work includes hosting History’s series Only in America with Larry the Cable Guy and starring in CMT’s animated show Bounty Hunters alongside Jeff Foxworthy and Bill Engvall.Fans can look forward to an unforgettable night of laughter as Larry continues his nationwide tour and gears up to release a brand-new comedy special in 2025 featuring all-new material. Don’t miss your chance to see this comedy legend live in Salina.For more details and to secure your tickets, visit <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org/">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>.

‘An Evening With Larry the Cable Guy’ comes to Salina’s Stiefel Theatre in June

City of Salina Starting Tuesday, February 25 through Friday, February 28th, APAC Shears of Salina will engage in the City of Salina's annual ultrathin bonded&nbsp;asphalt surface (UBAS) project. This phase involves adjusting manholes&nbsp;in the areas previously surfaced as part of this ongoing maintenance effort.

Specifically, work will occur on 9th Street from Republic Avenue to Crawford Street, weather permitting.

Motorists can expect detours for safety purposes and are advised to either avoid these work zones completely or proceed with caution to ensure the safety of the work crews. This maintenance method has been beneficial across the State of Kansas, significantly extending the lifespan of numerous roads.

This work is part of the City of Salina’s 2024 UBAS maintenance project, fully funded at a total project cost of $642,400. Motorists' cooperation and understanding are appreciated to maintain road integrity and safety.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740505729787.jpeg" alt="IMG_1422.jpeg" />
 <figcaption>IMG_1422.jpeg</figcaption>
 </figure>City of Salina Starting Tuesday, February 25 through Friday, February 28th, APAC Shears of Salina will engage in the City of Salina's annual ultrathin bonded&nbsp;asphalt surface (UBAS) project. This phase involves adjusting manholes&nbsp;in the areas previously surfaced as part of this ongoing maintenance effort.Specifically, work will occur on 9th Street from Republic Avenue to Crawford Street, weather permitting.Motorists can expect detours for safety purposes and are advised to either avoid these work zones completely or proceed with caution to ensure the safety of the work crews. This maintenance method has been beneficial across the State of Kansas, significantly extending the lifespan of numerous roads.This work is part of the City of Salina’s 2024 UBAS maintenance project, fully funded at a total project cost of $642,400. Motorists' cooperation and understanding are appreciated to maintain road integrity and safety.

Ultrathin asphalt work continues in Salina, detours posted

Meteorologists from the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita will present a storm spotter training session in Salina to help weather enthusiasts and storm spotters prepare for the upcoming severe weather season.

The training is scheduled for&nbsp;Tuesday, February 25, at 6:30 p.m.&nbsp;in&nbsp;Room 201 of the Peter Science Hall at Kansas Wesleyan University.

NWS staff will deliver an in-depth presentation covering:

	•	Recognizing storm features that indicate severity

Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of storm structures and their potential dangers. The NWS encourages anyone interested in weather, storm spotting, or emergency preparedness to attend.

Officials may also offer a&nbsp;virtual presentation option, with details to be announced. Updates on virtual sessions will be provided as they become available.

For more information, contact&nbsp;NWS.Wichita@noaa.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739219704070.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>NWS Meteorologists from the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita will present a storm spotter training session in Salina to help weather enthusiasts and storm spotters prepare for the upcoming severe weather season.The training is scheduled for&nbsp;Tuesday, February 25, at 6:30 p.m.&nbsp;in&nbsp;Room 201 of the Peter Science Hall at Kansas Wesleyan University.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715041763541.jpeg" alt="Storms moving eastward about &nbsp;0.5 miles south of Assaria on May 6, 2024. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Storms moving eastward about &nbsp;0.5 miles south of Assaria on May 6, 2024. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>NWS staff will deliver an in-depth presentation covering:	•	Different types of storms	•	Recognizing storm features that indicate severity	•	How to report hazardous weather	•	Severe weather safetyAttendees will gain a deeper understanding of storm structures and their potential dangers. The NWS encourages anyone interested in weather, storm spotting, or emergency preparedness to attend.Officials may also offer a&nbsp;virtual presentation option, with details to be announced. Updates on virtual sessions will be provided as they become available.For more information, contact&nbsp;NWS.Wichita@noaa.gov.

NWS hosting storm spotter training in Salina

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/people/sam-zeff">SAM ZEFF</a> <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-02-24/if-trumps-layoffs-hit-the-kansas-city-fbi-office-job-cuts-are-only-going-to-make-us-less-safe">KCUR</a>

President Trump’s pick for FBI Director, Kash Patel, has been confirmed — prompting fears of possible layoffs in the bureau. Some local officials worry that a diminished FBI presence in Kansas and Missouri could harm local law enforcement.

The FBI Kansas City Field Office has more than a hundred agents (the actual number is classified) but chances are you’ve never seen one. Unlike the police, they aren’t driving around in marked vehicles with lights on top. But they are there working on cases and assisting local police.

“We depend on them, and they depend on us to make America safe. There is no question of that,” Johnson County Sheriff Byron Roberson said.

As sweeping layoffs are announced at federal agencies under the new Trump administration, former FBI agents and top law enforcement officials worry about what will happen to the 56 field offices around the country, including Kansas City’s.

The Bureau has already&nbsp;<a href="https://amp.cnn.com/cnn/2025/01/30/politics/senior-fbi-leaders-demoted-wray" target="_blank">fired or forced six top officials to retire</a>. The administration has also gone on a binge firing federal probationary employees — something that would have a huge impact on the FBI. The F.B.I. Agents Association says 10% of the workforce is still in their probationary period.

Department of Justice leadership also demanded a list of all employeeswho participated in January 6th investigations, prompting fear that those FBI employees would be targeted for firing. That would certainly include veteran agents assigned to Kansas City.

“My concern is, if we lose the institutional knowledge that those individuals have in their jobs through this process of eliminating federal employees, it's only going to make us less safe,” said former Kansas U.S. Attorney Barry Grissom.

The FBI Kansas City Field Office has investigators spread across Kansas and western Missouri in eight offices called resident agencies. These small offices — often just two agents — work especially closely with local law enforcement.

Grissom was appointed U.S. Attorney by President Barack Obama and served from 2010 to 2016. He is now in private practice. He says even losing a few agents could be a big problem. An agent may be working 15 to 20 cases at a time. Many of those investigations involve intense coordination between FBI agents and local law enforcement.

“(Local agencies) are the eyes and ears on the ground,” Grissom told KCUR.

That includes counterterrorism, even in Kansas and Missouri.

“The counterterrorism problem is not just a national problem, but it's also a local problem,” said retired FBI agent Greg Vecchi, who now runs a security consulting firm in Olathe.

The local field office runs several task forces that include local and state law enforcement. The most important, Vecchi said, is the Joint Terrorism Task Force.

“The FBI has got to be able to have relationships with the various jurisdictions when and where the actual attacks are planned,” he said.

That was the case in 2018 when resident agents in Garden City, Kansas, worked with police and sheriff’s deputies to stop a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2018/03/20/595163065/mosque-bombing-plot-rattles-immigrants-in-kansas-meat-triangle" target="_blank">plot to bomb a mosque and apartment complex</a>&nbsp;to kill Somali immigrants.

“During my time as the U.S. attorney, we had two acts, I should say, potential acts of terrorism that the FBI was intimately involved in,” Grissom said. One stopped a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2015/08/31/436414417/wichita-man-sentenced-to-20-years-in-airport-bomb-plot" target="_blank">suicide car bombing at the Wichita airport&nbsp;</a>in December 2013 the other stopped another suicide car bombing in 2015&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2019/09/23/763544037/kansas-soldier-charged-with-teaching-bomb-making-to-far-right-extremists" target="_blank">targeting Fort Riley</a>, home to the Army’s 1st Infantry Division.

In addition, the Kansas City office runs the Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force and the Safe Streets Task Force, which targets gangs and drug cartels.

The office also provides training to local police and sheriff’s departments. Vecchi said when he ran the FBI’s Behavioral Science Unit in Quantico, Virginia, his agents would often train local police on interrogation.

“That is a huge benefit to law enforcement,” he said. The office also offers training to local SWAT teams.

All of that, plus access to the FBI’s Washington lab and the Regional Computer Forensic Laboratory in Kansas City all comes at no additional cost to local governments or police departments.

Vecchi believes if local field agents are fired, those working in administration will be reassigned to the street. But if the cuts go deeper, that’s a huge problem. If there are mass layoffs or firings, Vecchi said, “It's going to absolutely cripple” training and investigating counterterrorism.

Roberson, who was police chief in Prairie Village before being elected sheriff, said any cuts at the Kansas City Field Office will damage local law enforcement.

“There is great leadership that could be lost in that organization that you can't just go out and reinvent and just pick that up off the street,” Roberson said.

Patel is also now in line to take over another agency in jeopardy — the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fbi-director-kash-patel-atf-justice-department-e57250b2ac883af1c2fa7b4bf46ad876" target="_blank">according to the Associated Press</a>.

Missouri Rep. Eric Burlison from Springfield has filed a bill to abolish the agency. On social media, Burlison has said the ATF "consistently violates Second Amendment rights" and claims its functions are duplicative.

“The state of Missouri has all of the agencies that we need to regulate everything that the ATF does,”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.missourinet.com/2024/12/13/missouri-congressman-burlison-wants-to-get-rid-of-atf-calls-social-security-a-forced-pension/" target="_blank">he told MissouriNet in December</a>.

Rep. Mark Alford, who represents much of suburban Kansas City and mid-Missouri, has joined as a co-sponsor.

"Proud to be a cosponsor of Rep. Eric Burlison's bill, H.R. 221 — ABOLISH THE ATF!" he&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile/100089595940547/search/?q=abolish%20atf" target="_blank">wrote on Facebook</a>.

The ATF investigates gun crimes and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-04-08/a-missouri-county-wont-work-with-the-atf-claiming-the-federal-agency-is-unconstitutional" target="_blank">regulates federal firearms dealers</a>. It also looks into arsons, including an arson at the Waldo Heights apartments on 81st Street and Holmes in 2021 and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article260238435.html" target="_blank">one at Stonegate Meadows apartments</a>&nbsp;in 2022 that injured 15 people, including nine children.

“The idea that you would just do away with that agency for political partisanship reasons only I think is incredibly shortsighted by the congressmen,” Grissom told KCUR. “I'm really surprised that Congressman Alford would take that position.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740494555747.png" alt="The Kansas City FBI office in Kansas City north has 300 employees and covers all of Kansas and western Missouri. Photo by Sam Zeff/KCUR" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas City FBI office in Kansas City north has 300 employees and covers all of Kansas and western Missouri. Photo by Sam Zeff/KCUR</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/people/sam-zeff">SAM ZEFF</a> <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-02-24/if-trumps-layoffs-hit-the-kansas-city-fbi-office-job-cuts-are-only-going-to-make-us-less-safe">KCUR</a><h2>President Trump’s pick for FBI Director, Kash Patel, has been confirmed — prompting fears of possible layoffs in the bureau. Some local officials worry that a diminished FBI presence in Kansas and Missouri could harm local law enforcement.</h2>The FBI Kansas City Field Office has more than a hundred agents (the actual number is classified) but chances are you’ve never seen one. Unlike the police, they aren’t driving around in marked vehicles with lights on top. But they are there working on cases and assisting local police.“We depend on them, and they depend on us to make America safe. There is no question of that,” Johnson County Sheriff Byron Roberson said.As sweeping layoffs are announced at federal agencies under the new Trump administration, former FBI agents and top law enforcement officials worry about what will happen to the 56 field offices around the country, including Kansas City’s.The Bureau has already&nbsp;<a href="https://amp.cnn.com/cnn/2025/01/30/politics/senior-fbi-leaders-demoted-wray" target="_blank">fired or forced six top officials to retire</a>. The administration has also gone on a binge firing federal probationary employees — something that would have a huge impact on the FBI. The F.B.I. Agents Association says 10% of the workforce is still in their probationary period.Department of Justice leadership also demanded a list of all employeeswho participated in January 6th investigations, prompting fear that those FBI employees would be targeted for firing. That would certainly include veteran agents assigned to Kansas City.“My concern is, if we lose the institutional knowledge that those individuals have in their jobs through this process of eliminating federal employees, it's only going to make us less safe,” said former Kansas U.S. Attorney Barry Grissom.<h2>Why have FBI field offices?</h2>The FBI Kansas City Field Office has investigators spread across Kansas and western Missouri in eight offices called resident agencies. These small offices — often just two agents — work especially closely with local law enforcement.Grissom was appointed U.S. Attorney by President Barack Obama and served from 2010 to 2016. He is now in private practice. He says even losing a few agents could be a big problem. An agent may be working 15 to 20 cases at a time. Many of those investigations involve intense coordination between FBI agents and local law enforcement.“(Local agencies) are the eyes and ears on the ground,” Grissom told KCUR.That includes counterterrorism, even in Kansas and Missouri.“The counterterrorism problem is not just a national problem, but it's also a local problem,” said retired FBI agent Greg Vecchi, who now runs a security consulting firm in Olathe.The local field office runs several task forces that include local and state law enforcement. The most important, Vecchi said, is the Joint Terrorism Task Force.“The FBI has got to be able to have relationships with the various jurisdictions when and where the actual attacks are planned,” he said.That was the case in 2018 when resident agents in Garden City, Kansas, worked with police and sheriff’s deputies to stop a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2018/03/20/595163065/mosque-bombing-plot-rattles-immigrants-in-kansas-meat-triangle" target="_blank">plot to bomb a mosque and apartment complex</a>&nbsp;to kill Somali immigrants.“During my time as the U.S. attorney, we had two acts, I should say, potential acts of terrorism that the FBI was intimately involved in,” Grissom said. One stopped a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2015/08/31/436414417/wichita-man-sentenced-to-20-years-in-airport-bomb-plot" target="_blank">suicide car bombing at the Wichita airport&nbsp;</a>in December 2013 the other stopped another suicide car bombing in 2015&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2019/09/23/763544037/kansas-soldier-charged-with-teaching-bomb-making-to-far-right-extremists" target="_blank">targeting Fort Riley</a>, home to the Army’s 1st Infantry Division.In addition, the Kansas City office runs the Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force and the Safe Streets Task Force, which targets gangs and drug cartels.The office also provides training to local police and sheriff’s departments. Vecchi said when he ran the FBI’s Behavioral Science Unit in Quantico, Virginia, his agents would often train local police on interrogation.“That is a huge benefit to law enforcement,” he said. The office also offers training to local SWAT teams.All of that, plus access to the FBI’s Washington lab and the Regional Computer Forensic Laboratory in Kansas City all comes at no additional cost to local governments or police departments.Vecchi believes if local field agents are fired, those working in administration will be reassigned to the street. But if the cuts go deeper, that’s a huge problem. If there are mass layoffs or firings, Vecchi said, “It's going to absolutely cripple” training and investigating counterterrorism.Roberson, who was police chief in Prairie Village before being elected sheriff, said any cuts at the Kansas City Field Office will damage local law enforcement.“There is great leadership that could be lost in that organization that you can't just go out and reinvent and just pick that up off the street,” Roberson said.<h2>The ATF also at risk</h2>Patel is also now in line to take over another agency in jeopardy — the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fbi-director-kash-patel-atf-justice-department-e57250b2ac883af1c2fa7b4bf46ad876" target="_blank">according to the Associated Press</a>.Missouri Rep. Eric Burlison from Springfield has filed a bill to abolish the agency. On social media, Burlison has said the ATF "consistently violates Second Amendment rights" and claims its functions are duplicative.“The state of Missouri has all of the agencies that we need to regulate everything that the ATF does,”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.missourinet.com/2024/12/13/missouri-congressman-burlison-wants-to-get-rid-of-atf-calls-social-security-a-forced-pension/" target="_blank">he told MissouriNet in December</a>.Rep. Mark Alford, who represents much of suburban Kansas City and mid-Missouri, has joined as a co-sponsor."Proud to be a cosponsor of Rep. Eric Burlison's bill, H.R. 221 — ABOLISH THE ATF!" he&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile/100089595940547/search/?q=abolish%20atf" target="_blank">wrote on Facebook</a>.The ATF investigates gun crimes and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-04-08/a-missouri-county-wont-work-with-the-atf-claiming-the-federal-agency-is-unconstitutional" target="_blank">regulates federal firearms dealers</a>. It also looks into arsons, including an arson at the Waldo Heights apartments on 81st Street and Holmes in 2021 and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article260238435.html" target="_blank">one at Stonegate Meadows apartments</a>&nbsp;in 2022 that injured 15 people, including nine children.“The idea that you would just do away with that agency for political partisanship reasons only I think is incredibly shortsighted by the congressmen,” Grissom told KCUR. “I'm really surprised that Congressman Alford would take that position.”

If Trump's layoffs hit the Kansas City FBI office, job cuts are 'only going to make us less safe'

Domestic Battery: rude physical contact 2nd

Stalking; After served a protection order prohibiting contact; 2nd or subs

Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): outside warrant&nbsp;

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/2025/2/1740500353365.jpeg" alt="Bennett,Paul Ray " />
 <figcaption>Bennett,Paul Ray </figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Bennett,Paul RayREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740500375093.jpeg" alt="Dionicio-Reyes,Christian Alberto" />
 <figcaption>Dionicio-Reyes,Christian Alberto</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:Dionicio-Reyes,Christian AlbertoREQUESTED CHARGE(S): DUI<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740500398165.jpeg" alt="Garrison,Thomas Cole" />
 <figcaption>Garrison,Thomas Cole</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Garrison,Thomas ColeREQUESTED CHARGE(S): &nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact 2ndStalking; After served a protection order prohibiting contact; 2nd or subsViol protection order; Abuse order<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740500425560.jpeg" alt="Hall,Shane Albert" />
 <figcaption>Hall,Shane Albert</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Hall,Shane AlbertREQUESTED CHARGE(S): probation violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740500450272.jpeg" alt="Imlay,Christian Matthew" />
 <figcaption>Imlay,Christian Matthew</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:Imlay,Christian MatthewREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740500478403.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:Jones,Roy AnthonyREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation ViolationFailure to appearUse/poss drug paraphernalian/human bodyPoss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740500502114.jpeg" alt="Leidig,Ashlynn Nadine" />
 <figcaption>Leidig,Ashlynn Nadine</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Leidig,Ashlynn NadineREQUESTED CHARGE(S): probation violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740500524989.jpeg" alt="IMG_1418.jpeg" />
 <figcaption>IMG_1418.jpeg</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:Smith,Justin EugeneREQUESTED CHARGE(S): outside warrant&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740500548146.jpeg" alt="Wickey,Anthony Eugene" />
 <figcaption>Wickey,Anthony Eugene</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Wickey,Anthony EugeneREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation ViolationFailure to appearOutside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740500567220.jpeg" alt="Williams,Michael Cody" />
 <figcaption>Williams,Michael Cody</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Williams,Michael CodyREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appearFailure to appearFailure to appearUse/poss drug paraphernalian/human bodyPoss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulantFailure to appear

Saline County Jail Bookings, Feb. 25

CLOUD COUNTY —Law enforcement across Kansas continue to see more drivers traveling well above the posted speed limit, despite a statewide campaign to crack down on excessive speeding.

Trooper Peterson checked the speed of&nbsp; a driver traveling 109mph northbound toward Concordia and was still at 91mph entering a 55mph zone in city limits, according to a statement from the Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C.

"Speed limits exist for a reason—reaction time, stopping distance, and safety for everyone on the road. Slow down. Troopers are out working hard to keep Kansas roadways safe."&nbsp; The driver was given a ticket for $438.00.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740481785060.png" alt="Photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>CLOUD COUNTY —Law enforcement across Kansas continue to see more drivers traveling well above the posted speed limit, despite a statewide campaign to crack down on excessive speeding.Trooper Peterson checked the speed of&nbsp; a driver traveling 109mph northbound toward Concordia and was still at 91mph entering a 55mph zone in city limits, according to a statement from the Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C."Speed limits exist for a reason—reaction time, stopping distance, and safety for everyone on the road. Slow down. Troopers are out working hard to keep Kansas roadways safe."&nbsp; The driver was given a ticket for $438.00.

KHP: Driver caught traveling 109mph in a 70mph zone

The Salina City Commission will hold its regular meeting on Feb. 24, 2025, beginning at 4:00 p.m. in Room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street.

At 2:30 p.m. in Room 107, commissioners will hear an update regarding Salina Animal Services.&nbsp;

The meeting will begin with confirmation that the required notice under the Kansas Open Meeting Act has been provided, followed by a roll call and Pledge of Allegiance.&nbsp;

Public hearings and items scheduled for a certain time

(3.1) The commission will conduct a public hearing and consider approval of Ordinance No. 25-11234, which would vacate a utility easement in Schilling Subdivision No. 5 to allow for a terminal expansion at Salina Municipal Airport.

(4.1) The commission will consider approving the minutes from the Feb. 10, 2025, meeting.

(4.2) Resolution No. 25-8283 will appoint a new member to the Salina Airport Authority.

(4.3) The commission will review biennial Special Alcohol funding requests for the 2025-2026 funding period.

(4.4) The commission will consider accepting a public sanitary sewer easement to serve a new Maverik convenience store outside the Windy Creek Addition.

(4.5) A license agreement with Bergkamp, Inc. for a sign in the public right-of-way at 3040 Emulsion Drive will also be considered.

(5.1) The commission will consider Resolutions No. 25-8280, 25-8281, and 25-8282, authorizing improvements to main trafficways, the public water supply system at Salina Municipal Airport, and the public water supply system in Overlook Estates Extension.

(5.2) The commission will discuss the selection of an executive search firm to assist with hiring a new city manager.

(5.3) The commission will consider approving the 2025 Conventions and Tourism Promotion Program and Cultural Grant Program Budget.

(5.4) The commission will consider Amendment No. 1 to the Interlocal Agreement between Salina and Saline County regarding the Animal Shelter.

(5.5) The commission will also review an Interlocal Agreement with Saline County for Plan Review and Building Inspection Services.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016826196.jpeg" alt="Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe Salina City Commission will hold its regular meeting on Feb. 24, 2025, beginning at 4:00 p.m. in Room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street.At 2:30 p.m. in Room 107, commissioners will hear an update regarding Salina Animal Services.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VXMWMErE3T0?si=dvi-8ieYOnigR-6T&amp;controls=0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><h2>Call to order</h2>The meeting will begin with confirmation that the required notice under the Kansas Open Meeting Act has been provided, followed by a roll call and Pledge of Allegiance.&nbsp;<h2>Public hearings and items scheduled for a certain time</h2>(3.1) The commission will conduct a public hearing and consider approval of Ordinance No. 25-11234, which would vacate a utility easement in Schilling Subdivision No. 5 to allow for a terminal expansion at Salina Municipal Airport.<h2>Consent agenda</h2>(4.1) The commission will consider approving the minutes from the Feb. 10, 2025, meeting.(4.2) Resolution No. 25-8283 will appoint a new member to the Salina Airport Authority.(4.3) The commission will review biennial Special Alcohol funding requests for the 2025-2026 funding period.(4.4) The commission will consider accepting a public sanitary sewer easement to serve a new Maverik convenience store outside the Windy Creek Addition.(4.5) A license agreement with Bergkamp, Inc. for a sign in the public right-of-way at 3040 Emulsion Drive will also be considered.<h2>Administration</h2>(5.1) The commission will consider Resolutions No. 25-8280, 25-8281, and 25-8282, authorizing improvements to main trafficways, the public water supply system at Salina Municipal Airport, and the public water supply system in Overlook Estates Extension.(5.2) The commission will discuss the selection of an executive search firm to assist with hiring a new city manager.(5.3) The commission will consider approving the 2025 Conventions and Tourism Promotion Program and Cultural Grant Program Budget.(5.4) The commission will consider Amendment No. 1 to the Interlocal Agreement between Salina and Saline County regarding the Animal Shelter.(5.5) The commission will also review an Interlocal Agreement with Saline County for Plan Review and Building Inspection Services.<h2>Development business</h2><h2>Other business</h2><h2>Citizens forum</h2><h2>Executive session</h2><h2>Adjournment</h2>

Salina City Comm. to discuss city manager search, animal services, infrastructure projects at Feb. 24 meeting

College students interested in a career in law enforcement can now apply for the Kansas Highway Patrol’s (KHP) Collegiate Law Enforcement Academy, a four-day immersive experience held annually in Salina the week before Memorial Day.

The academy offers students a first-hand look into the life of a Kansas State Trooper through scenario-based training, physical fitness exercises, and classroom instruction at the Kansas Highway Patrol Training Academy. Participants will engage in traffic stop simulations, firearms training, defensive tactics, and team-building exercises. The program also features demonstrations from the KHP Canine Unit, an aircraft introduction, and a tour of the Communications Center.

To apply, students must submit an 80-100-word essay on their interest in the academy, along with an endorsement from their school’s dean, sponsorship from a college advisor or department head, and a completed medical authorization form. A sponsor must accompany students but can attend at no additional cost.

The $150 registration fee covers training, lodging, and meals. Interested students can visit <a>www.KansasHighwayPatrol.org/KHPjobsorg/CollegiateLawAcademy</a> or call 785-822-1700 for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615930110399.png" alt="KHP Collegiate Law Academy.PNG" />
 <figcaption>KHP Collegiate Law Academy.PNG</figcaption>
 </figure>KHPCollege students interested in a career in law enforcement can now apply for the Kansas Highway Patrol’s (KHP) Collegiate Law Enforcement Academy, a four-day immersive experience held annually in Salina the week before Memorial Day.The academy offers students a first-hand look into the life of a Kansas State Trooper through scenario-based training, physical fitness exercises, and classroom instruction at the Kansas Highway Patrol Training Academy. Participants will engage in traffic stop simulations, firearms training, defensive tactics, and team-building exercises. The program also features demonstrations from the KHP Canine Unit, an aircraft introduction, and a tour of the Communications Center.To apply, students must submit an 80-100-word essay on their interest in the academy, along with an endorsement from their school’s dean, sponsorship from a college advisor or department head, and a completed medical authorization form. A sponsor must accompany students but can attend at no additional cost.The $150 registration fee covers training, lodging, and meals. Interested students can visit <a>www.KansasHighwayPatrol.org/KHPjobsorg/CollegiateLawAcademy</a> or call 785-822-1700 for more information.

KHP Collegiate Law Enforcement Academy accepting applications

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;DUI; 2nd conv; comp evidence of blood/breath .08+

Burglary; Vehicle to commit felony, theft, domestic violence, or sexually motivated crime

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

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;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/2025/2/1740402063421.jpeg" alt="Coutts,Frederick J. III " />
 <figcaption>Coutts,Frederick J. III </figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Coutts,Frederick J. IIIREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;DUI; 2nd conv; comp evidence of blood/breath .08+<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740402110086.jpeg" alt=" Rose,Justin Michael" />
 <figcaption> Rose,Justin Michael</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:Rose,Justin MichaelREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Burglary; Vehicle to commit felony, theft, domestic violence, or sexually motivated crimeTheft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human bodyPoss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740402149931.jpeg" alt=" Ross,Delilah Rae" />
 <figcaption> Ross,Delilah Rae</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Ross,Delilah RaeREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740402191093.jpeg" alt=" Trower,Shawn Michael" />
 <figcaption> Trower,Shawn Michael</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Trower,Shawn MichaelREQUESTED CHARGE(S): probation violation

Saline County Jail Bookings, Feb. 24

Pavement sealing work in Salina will take place from Monday, February 24, through Friday, February 28. Circle C Paving &amp; Construction of Goddard, Kansas, will work on the City of Salina’s annual pavement crack sealing project by sealing cracks in the following streets, weather permitting.

Crawford from Briarcliff to the east, Edgehill, Fairdale from Applewood to Brookwood, Fairdale from Glen to Edgehill, Eastborough from Seitz to the south, Marymount from Iron to Country Club, Country Club from Marymount to Eastborough, East Park Ln, West Park Ln, Stack from Delaware to Missouri, Indian Rock Ln, Edison Pl, Westbend, Waverly, Westchester, and YMCA Dr.

The work will take place between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Access to properties within work zones will be maintained at all times. “Road Work Ahead” signs will be placed in advance of work zones, and temporary single-lane closures are to be expected. Motorists are asked to proceed with caution when approaching work zones for the safety of the crews performing the work.

The annual crack and joint sealing program is an important and cost-effective preventive maintenance component of the City of Salina’s annual street repair program. Crack sealing the pavement helps prevent water from penetrating into the pavement structure or sub-base material and aids in reducing a number of pavement problems which include crack spreading, formation of voids under pavement, swelling and shrinking of sub-base materials, freeze-thaw action, alligator cracking, potholing, and complete failure. Because of its importance and cost-effectiveness, the Department of Public Works strives to seal each asphalt street in Salina no less often than every seven years.

The scheduled work described above is the first installment of the City of Salina’s 2025 Crack Seal annual maintenance project. The full project cost of all installments totals $486,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016826196.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Pavement sealing work in Salina will take place from Monday, February 24, through Friday, February 28. Circle C Paving &amp; Construction of Goddard, Kansas, will work on the City of Salina’s annual pavement crack sealing project by sealing cracks in the following streets, weather permitting.Streets impacted include:Crawford from Briarcliff to the east, Edgehill, Fairdale from Applewood to Brookwood, Fairdale from Glen to Edgehill, Eastborough from Seitz to the south, Marymount from Iron to Country Club, Country Club from Marymount to Eastborough, East Park Ln, West Park Ln, Stack from Delaware to Missouri, Indian Rock Ln, Edison Pl, Westbend, Waverly, Westchester, and YMCA Dr.The work will take place between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Access to properties within work zones will be maintained at all times. “Road Work Ahead” signs will be placed in advance of work zones, and temporary single-lane closures are to be expected. Motorists are asked to proceed with caution when approaching work zones for the safety of the crews performing the work.The annual crack and joint sealing program is an important and cost-effective preventive maintenance component of the City of Salina’s annual street repair program. Crack sealing the pavement helps prevent water from penetrating into the pavement structure or sub-base material and aids in reducing a number of pavement problems which include crack spreading, formation of voids under pavement, swelling and shrinking of sub-base materials, freeze-thaw action, alligator cracking, potholing, and complete failure. Because of its importance and cost-effectiveness, the Department of Public Works strives to seal each asphalt street in Salina no less often than every seven years.The scheduled work described above is the first installment of the City of Salina’s 2025 Crack Seal annual maintenance project. The full project cost of all installments totals $486,000.

Salina street pavement sealing work begins Feb. 24

By LESLIE MANNING <a href="https://www.facebook.com/southeastspotlight/">The Spotlight</a> “We’ve never really been a one size fits all,” Mason Winter said. “In the sale barn industry, you get a taste of it all, and make due with what you’ve got.”

In December, Winter came on board at Farmers and Ranchers Livestock, Salina, representing the new ownership, Winter Livestock.

“We are going to keep everything the same,” Winter said. “Salina is the largest sale barn in Kansas, so whatever they were doing is working really well for them.”

Winter was born and raised in Dodge City, where his family owns and operates a sale barn, Winter Livestock, that began with his great-grandpa.

“I’m the fourth generation,” Winter said. “My family came to Dodge in 1936. My great-grandpa, Karl, bought stock yards from the railroads, and turned it into the local sale barn. It’s treated us pretty well ever since.”

Winter Livestock expanded throughout the generations, to its current capacity of three sale barns in Kansas, one in Colorado and one in Wyoming. Winter, one of four siblings, earned a degree in ag business from Oklahoma State, while returning home on weekends and for Wednesday sales to help operate the Dodge City sale barn. Upon graduation, Winter ran the Dodge City location.

“(Growing up) I was around the sale barn as much as possible,” Winter said. “I tried to dive in as much as I could. Once I got to high school, I started helping and not being in the way of everybody.”

Since December, Winter has dove in at Farmers and Ranchers Livestock, learning everything he can from sale barn manager, Mike Samples.

“It’s no secret in the state of Kansas that this is Mike Samples’ sale barn,” Winter said. “This place was built on his shoulders. We are happy to build off of what he has built.”

Samples will stay on as manager for two more years, to teach Winter the ropes of the structures in place at Farmers and Ranchers Livestock.

“There’s not really a secret formula,” Winter said. “You work really hard and treat people well, and they seem to do the same back to you. (Sale barns) all kind of follow the same plan, and the same systems, with their own personal touches on them.”

Farmers and Ranchers Livestock will continue to operate with a flat rate commission per head. Preparing cattle for the auctions on Mondays and Thursdays, with special auctions for vaccinated calves on Tuesdays, will remain a priority.

“The feeding, the watering and the facilitating of the cattle is a job in and of itself,” Winter said. “We’re trying to get as close to what they weighed at home. We want the smallest amount of shrink as possible. Through grass hay and pellets, we try to mitigate that shrink as much as possible.”

Kyle Elwood, will remain the assistant manager at Farmers and Ranchers Livestock, preparing the cattle for sale days. Elwood has been the assistant manager and an auctioneer for Farmers and Ranchers Livestock for over 30 years.

“Kyle has about as good of eye as anyone I’ve met,” Winter said. “He knows what is going to sell each week, and what the buyers are looking for. It’s impressive how in tune he is with where the cattle need to be and how they need to be sorted.”

Packaging the producer’s cattle, by characteristics like color, weight and sex, will remain the same.

“Each producer’s cattle is represented in categories in and of themselves,” Winter said. “Buyers are looking for the biggest bunch of like cattle that they can put together. As long as there’s something for them to buy, they make our job really easy. They are competing against each other, so their competitive spirits drive up the costs.”

Buyers will continue to see a selection of bottle calves, weaned calves, cow/calf pairs, cows and bred cows.

“We’ve got every facet covered and the buyers make our job really easy,” Winter said.

According to Winter, the hardest part of the job is unloading and loading and keeping everything straight.

“Everything that comes in has to go back out to its new home with low stress and no injuries,” Winter said. “It’s a lot of thankless jobs, that we wouldn’t be able to do without. It’s a lot of getting cattle in and getting cattle out.”

Horse sales will also continue at Farmers and Ranchers Livestock, with the 2025 sales scheduled for May 17 and one in October. Hog sales will continue on the second and fourth Mondays of the month. A buffalo sale is planned for December.

“I am here to learn as much as I can from Mike and Kyle,” Winter said.

Mike Samples began managing Farmers and Ranchers Livestock on August 31, 1987. Raised on an 80-acre farm north of Erie, he joined the FFA chapter in high school under the direction of vo-ag teacher, Ken Nuntin. Samples’ first FFA project was raising six pigs, leading him into raising hogs and cattle.

Also, while in high school, Samples went to the sale barn in Parsons as often as he could. Wanting to be a part of the auction world, he started driving and traveling with famous cattleman, E.J. Peck, learning about the cattle industry.

Samples worked for the Fredonia market, later running the Chanute Sale Barn for a short while before becoming the manager of the Parsons Livestock Market for Russell and Mark McKee. He had been running the sale barn in Parsons, when he left to take over Farmers and Ranchers Livestock in Salina.

“It was in pretty sad shape when I got here,” Samples said. “I’ve never had a lot of give up in me. I just went to driving around the country and meeting people. A lot of places I went to, people actually ran me off their property, because they didn’t like Farmers and Ranchers. I just kept coming back. Most of those people made really good customers of mine.”

In 1987, Farmers and Ranchers Livestock was owned by Joe Clemence, John Clemence, Chris Hoffman and Bill Hoffman. Joe Clemence was the son of an original owner, Laurence Clemence. Laurence Clemence started Farmers and Ranchers Livestock with Merrill Christiansen and Bob Muir in 1966.

“There were two sale barns already in Salina,” Samples said. “They shut the other two barns down. They got all the cattle and the other barns just went away.”

According to the Kansas State Department of Agriculture, by 1987, numbers were down, with Farmers and Ranchers Livestock running 88,606 head of cattle across the auction block during the year. By building relationships with producers and buyers, Samples increased those numbers to over 200,000 head each year.

“They didn’t have buyers and they didn’t have an active market,” Samples said. “Roger Johnson told me when I got here, ‘You’ll never be able to fill this barn back up, because you don’t have the buyers.' I got the buyers, I got the cattle and I got the market and all is good.”

Samples knew buyers, and began calling people. Now, every major feeding group in the Midwest is represented in the buyers’ seats at Farmers and Ranchers Livestock.

“When I got here, Junction City was getting a lot of cattle,” Samples said. “I just, slowly but surely, got the farmers to bring their cattle to us. It was not an easy task and it was not a quick task. It took time. After I got the thing going and started, then we became the largest livestock auction in Kansas.”

Winter Livestock owned the two largest sale barns in Kansas, Dodge City and Pratt. According to Samples, Dodge City had the biggest sale barn in Kansas for 50 years. Mike Lewis, a friend of Samples, ran the Winter Livestock sale barn in Pratt.

“When I started getting the business going, Mike Lewis was trying to pass Dodge,” Samples said. “Nobody had every passed Dodge. We joked with each other that I was going to pass them both after Pratt passed Dodge.”

Samples attributes the success of Farmers and Ranchers Livestock to several factors, including the location. With Salina at the junction of I-135 and I-70, the sale barn was easily accessible to both buyers and sellers. In addition, Samples notes, the conditions of the region allows for good livestock production.

“I like this part of the world, because there’s grass,” Samples said. “There are cattle and crops to feed the cattle.”

The success is also rooted in Samples’ drive and motivation.

"I had always wanted to run a big successful sale barn,” Samples said. “You gotta love what you do, people have to know that you like what you do and enjoy what you are doing.”

In 2021, Samples was inducted into the Cattle Marketing Hall of Fame. The honor recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to competitive marketing, as the backbone of true price discovery.

“Farmers and Ranchers is very highly respected in the auction business in Kansas and the Midwest,” Samples said. “We get sellers from Western Kansas, from Oklahoma, from Missouri and all over the state of Kansas.”

Samples intends to manage the barn for the next two years, and introduce Mason to the network of buyers and producers composing the business of Farmers and Ranchers Livestock.

“The main thing, I have a very tight relationship with my customers,” Samples said. “I thought when I first met Mason he would fit in. He’s met the people well, and they like him. People were looking for a home. They were going other places, and we give them a home.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740163753293.jpeg" alt="Mason Winter Photos Courtesy Leslie Manning" />
 <figcaption>Mason Winter Photos Courtesy Leslie Manning</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE MANNING <a href="https://www.facebook.com/southeastspotlight/">The Spotlight</a> “We’ve never really been a one size fits all,” Mason Winter said. “In the sale barn industry, you get a taste of it all, and make due with what you’ve got.”In December, Winter came on board at Farmers and Ranchers Livestock, Salina, representing the new ownership, Winter Livestock.“We are going to keep everything the same,” Winter said. “Salina is the largest sale barn in Kansas, so whatever they were doing is working really well for them.”<h2>Under new ownership</h2>Winter was born and raised in Dodge City, where his family owns and operates a sale barn, Winter Livestock, that began with his great-grandpa.“I’m the fourth generation,” Winter said. “My family came to Dodge in 1936. My great-grandpa, Karl, bought stock yards from the railroads, and turned it into the local sale barn. It’s treated us pretty well ever since.”Winter Livestock expanded throughout the generations, to its current capacity of three sale barns in Kansas, one in Colorado and one in Wyoming. Winter, one of four siblings, earned a degree in ag business from Oklahoma State, while returning home on weekends and for Wednesday sales to help operate the Dodge City sale barn. Upon graduation, Winter ran the Dodge City location.“(Growing up) I was around the sale barn as much as possible,” Winter said. “I tried to dive in as much as I could. Once I got to high school, I started helping and not being in the way of everybody.”Since December, Winter has dove in at Farmers and Ranchers Livestock, learning everything he can from sale barn manager, Mike Samples.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740163646969.jpeg" alt="Mike Samples" />
 <figcaption>Mike Samples</figcaption>
 </figure>“It’s no secret in the state of Kansas that this is Mike Samples’ sale barn,” Winter said. “This place was built on his shoulders. We are happy to build off of what he has built.”Samples will stay on as manager for two more years, to teach Winter the ropes of the structures in place at Farmers and Ranchers Livestock.“There’s not really a secret formula,” Winter said. “You work really hard and treat people well, and they seem to do the same back to you. (Sale barns) all kind of follow the same plan, and the same systems, with their own personal touches on them.”Farmers and Ranchers Livestock will continue to operate with a flat rate commission per head. Preparing cattle for the auctions on Mondays and Thursdays, with special auctions for vaccinated calves on Tuesdays, will remain a priority.“The feeding, the watering and the facilitating of the cattle is a job in and of itself,” Winter said. “We’re trying to get as close to what they weighed at home. We want the smallest amount of shrink as possible. Through grass hay and pellets, we try to mitigate that shrink as much as possible.”Kyle Elwood, will remain the assistant manager at Farmers and Ranchers Livestock, preparing the cattle for sale days. Elwood has been the assistant manager and an auctioneer for Farmers and Ranchers Livestock for over 30 years.“Kyle has about as good of eye as anyone I’ve met,” Winter said. “He knows what is going to sell each week, and what the buyers are looking for. It’s impressive how in tune he is with where the cattle need to be and how they need to be sorted.”Packaging the producer’s cattle, by characteristics like color, weight and sex, will remain the same.“Each producer’s cattle is represented in categories in and of themselves,” Winter said. “Buyers are looking for the biggest bunch of like cattle that they can put together. As long as there’s something for them to buy, they make our job really easy. They are competing against each other, so their competitive spirits drive up the costs.”Buyers will continue to see a selection of bottle calves, weaned calves, cow/calf pairs, cows and bred cows.“We’ve got every facet covered and the buyers make our job really easy,” Winter said.According to Winter, the hardest part of the job is unloading and loading and keeping everything straight.“Everything that comes in has to go back out to its new home with low stress and no injuries,” Winter said. “It’s a lot of thankless jobs, that we wouldn’t be able to do without. It’s a lot of getting cattle in and getting cattle out.”Horse sales will also continue at Farmers and Ranchers Livestock, with the 2025 sales scheduled for May 17 and one in October. Hog sales will continue on the second and fourth Mondays of the month. A buffalo sale is planned for December.“I am here to learn as much as I can from Mike and Kyle,” Winter said.<h2>Building a sale barn</h2>Mike Samples began managing Farmers and Ranchers Livestock on August 31, 1987. Raised on an 80-acre farm north of Erie, he joined the FFA chapter in high school under the direction of vo-ag teacher, Ken Nuntin. Samples’ first FFA project was raising six pigs, leading him into raising hogs and cattle.Also, while in high school, Samples went to the sale barn in Parsons as often as he could. Wanting to be a part of the auction world, he started driving and traveling with famous cattleman, E.J. Peck, learning about the cattle industry.Samples worked for the Fredonia market, later running the Chanute Sale Barn for a short while before becoming the manager of the Parsons Livestock Market for Russell and Mark McKee. He had been running the sale barn in Parsons, when he left to take over Farmers and Ranchers Livestock in Salina.“It was in pretty sad shape when I got here,” Samples said. “I’ve never had a lot of give up in me. I just went to driving around the country and meeting people. A lot of places I went to, people actually ran me off their property, because they didn’t like Farmers and Ranchers. I just kept coming back. Most of those people made really good customers of mine.”In 1987, Farmers and Ranchers Livestock was owned by Joe Clemence, John Clemence, Chris Hoffman and Bill Hoffman. Joe Clemence was the son of an original owner, Laurence Clemence. Laurence Clemence started Farmers and Ranchers Livestock with Merrill Christiansen and Bob Muir in 1966.“There were two sale barns already in Salina,” Samples said. “They shut the other two barns down. They got all the cattle and the other barns just went away.”According to the Kansas State Department of Agriculture, by 1987, numbers were down, with Farmers and Ranchers Livestock running 88,606 head of cattle across the auction block during the year. By building relationships with producers and buyers, Samples increased those numbers to over 200,000 head each year.“They didn’t have buyers and they didn’t have an active market,” Samples said. “Roger Johnson told me when I got here, ‘You’ll never be able to fill this barn back up, because you don’t have the buyers.' I got the buyers, I got the cattle and I got the market and all is good.”Samples knew buyers, and began calling people. Now, every major feeding group in the Midwest is represented in the buyers’ seats at Farmers and Ranchers Livestock.“When I got here, Junction City was getting a lot of cattle,” Samples said. “I just, slowly but surely, got the farmers to bring their cattle to us. It was not an easy task and it was not a quick task. It took time. After I got the thing going and started, then we became the largest livestock auction in Kansas.”Winter Livestock owned the two largest sale barns in Kansas, Dodge City and Pratt. According to Samples, Dodge City had the biggest sale barn in Kansas for 50 years. Mike Lewis, a friend of Samples, ran the Winter Livestock sale barn in Pratt.“When I started getting the business going, Mike Lewis was trying to pass Dodge,” Samples said. “Nobody had every passed Dodge. We joked with each other that I was going to pass them both after Pratt passed Dodge.”That is exactly what happened.Samples attributes the success of Farmers and Ranchers Livestock to several factors, including the location. With Salina at the junction of I-135 and I-70, the sale barn was easily accessible to both buyers and sellers. In addition, Samples notes, the conditions of the region allows for good livestock production.“I like this part of the world, because there’s grass,” Samples said. “There are cattle and crops to feed the cattle.”The success is also rooted in Samples’ drive and motivation."I had always wanted to run a big successful sale barn,” Samples said. “You gotta love what you do, people have to know that you like what you do and enjoy what you are doing.”In 2021, Samples was inducted into the Cattle Marketing Hall of Fame. The honor recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to competitive marketing, as the backbone of true price discovery.“Farmers and Ranchers is very highly respected in the auction business in Kansas and the Midwest,” Samples said. “We get sellers from Western Kansas, from Oklahoma, from Missouri and all over the state of Kansas.”Samples intends to manage the barn for the next two years, and introduce Mason to the network of buyers and producers composing the business of Farmers and Ranchers Livestock.“The main thing, I have a very tight relationship with my customers,” Samples said. “I thought when I first met Mason he would fit in. He’s met the people well, and they like him. People were looking for a home. They were going other places, and we give them a home.”

'Winter Livestock' takes ownership of 'Farmers and Ranchers Livestock'

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner and Failure to Appear

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Wittman, Kasey Jean Rachael

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm

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/2025/2/1740323575359.png" alt=" Fulton, Ryliegh Lerae" />
 <figcaption> Fulton, Ryliegh Lerae</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Fulton, Ryliegh LeraeREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner and Failure to Appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740323614826.png" alt="Nelson, Chelsea Rose" />
 <figcaption>Nelson, Chelsea Rose</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Nelson, Chelsea RoseREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740323658826.png" alt="Reidelberger, Emma Rose" />
 <figcaption>Reidelberger, Emma Rose</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Reidelberger, Emma RoseREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740323703044.png" alt="Ross, Delilah Rae" />
 <figcaption>Ross, Delilah Rae</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Ross, Delilah RaeREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740323738924.png" alt="Schacht, Pamela Rae " />
 <figcaption>Schacht, Pamela Rae </figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Schacht, Pamela RaeREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740323789392.png" alt="Wittman, Kasey Jean Rachael" />
 <figcaption>Wittman, Kasey Jean Rachael</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Wittman, Kasey Jean RachaelREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm

Saline County Jail Bookings, Feb. 23

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/aj-dome/">AJ DOME</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

OVERLAND PARK — Weather enthusiasts across the Plains are concerned about&nbsp;<a href="https://oklahomavoice.com/2025/02/04/oklahoma-house-advances-controversial-bill-giving-some-storm-chasers-emergency-vehicle-status/" target="_blank">a proposed Oklahoma bill</a>&nbsp;that they fear could empower some storm chasers over others.

Oklahoma Rep. Scott Fetgatter introduced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb2426&amp;Session=2500" target="_blank">House Bill 2426</a>&nbsp;last month to create a special license that would allow personnel from legacy TV stations and weather researchers affiliated with specified universities operating around severe thunderstorms, to act as emergency responders in the immediate aftermath of a tornado.

The Oklahoma House Business Committee passed the bill on Feb. 4. If it becomes law, the measure would allow licensed storm chasers to affix flashing lights on their vehicles, giving them right-of-way through red lights and on closed roads. The storm tracker license would cost about $500 with a renewal fee of $250. In a statement, Fetgatter, a Republican from Okmulgee, Oklahoma, said the bill is still a work in progress.

WeatherNation meteorologist and storm chaser Erik Fox said he is actively trying to kill the bill because it could potentially create “some constitutional issues” from people simply watching the weather, although he understands the need for enhanced road safety measures as more people pursue storms.

“When I started chasing, I was lucky to see maybe five chasers on any storm,” Fox said. “Now it’s more like 20 to 30.”

Roughly 5,000 people across the country and internationally come to the Great Plains every year to chase storms. Alongside the growing number of chasers is the higher likelihood of them encountering damaged structures and injured people because of their proximity to a storm.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740152975847.png" alt=" Storm chasers watch rotating clouds hovering over in May 2024 in Gove and Ness counties in western Kansas. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Storm chasers watch rotating clouds hovering over in May 2024 in Gove and Ness counties in western Kansas. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/aj-dome/">AJ DOME</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>OVERLAND PARK — Weather enthusiasts across the Plains are concerned about&nbsp;<a href="https://oklahomavoice.com/2025/02/04/oklahoma-house-advances-controversial-bill-giving-some-storm-chasers-emergency-vehicle-status/" target="_blank">a proposed Oklahoma bill</a>&nbsp;that they fear could empower some storm chasers over others.Oklahoma Rep. Scott Fetgatter introduced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb2426&amp;Session=2500" target="_blank">House Bill 2426</a>&nbsp;last month to create a special license that would allow personnel from legacy TV stations and weather researchers affiliated with specified universities operating around severe thunderstorms, to act as emergency responders in the immediate aftermath of a tornado.The Oklahoma House Business Committee passed the bill on Feb. 4. If it becomes law, the measure would allow licensed storm chasers to affix flashing lights on their vehicles, giving them right-of-way through red lights and on closed roads. The storm tracker license would cost about $500 with a renewal fee of $250. In a statement, Fetgatter, a Republican from Okmulgee, Oklahoma, said the bill is still a work in progress.WeatherNation meteorologist and storm chaser Erik Fox said he is actively trying to kill the bill because it could potentially create “some constitutional issues” from people simply watching the weather, although he understands the need for enhanced road safety measures as more people pursue storms.“When I started chasing, I was lucky to see maybe five chasers on any storm,” Fox said. “Now it’s more like 20 to 30.”Roughly 5,000 people across the country and internationally come to the Great Plains every year to chase storms. Alongside the growing number of chasers is the higher likelihood of them encountering damaged structures and injured people because of their proximity to a storm.Nemaha County emergency management director and storm chaser Eddie Aldrine said anybody who wants to learn about storm chasing should also take a CPR class and “get to know your first aid kit.”“Having the knowledge to save your life or someone else’s life is paramount because you may be the only help for miles around, due to the rural environments storm chasers normally operate in,” Aldrine said.Aldrine taught a first aid class at the National Storm Chaser Summit, which took place Feb. 14-16 in Overland Park. Previous storm chaser conventions were held in Dallas, Denver, and Oklahoma City.The event was originally called ChaserCon and was created in 2002 by storm chasers Tim Samaras and Roger Hill to provide an opportunity for weather enthusiasts to gather and share stories about their chases. Fox went to his first ChaserCon in 2008 and said he made some lifelong friends there.Severe weather researcher Tim Samaras, along with his son, Paul, and their friend, Carl Young, were killed in 2013 by a 2.6-mile-wide multi-vortex tornado near El Reno, Oklahoma. Following their deaths, the convention morphed from a loosely organized social party with a couple of speakers into a professional education and networking-focused event with two days of presentations.Fox is now president and founder of the chaser summit.“I vowed when I took it over I was going to move it around to give everybody a chance to attend,” Fox said. “The Overland Park area has a very, very huge chaser contingent.”This is the second year the summit has sold out of tickets, as interest in both severe weather and storm chasing continues to grow following the 2024 release of “Twisters,” a sequel to the 1996 Hollywood film “Twister,” which popularized storm chasing and studying tornadoes.Kansans have other opportunities to learn more about severe weather this spring. National Weather Service meteorologists across the state are preparing for storm spotter talks, which are held annually in all 105 Kansas counties.Spotter presentations began earlier in February in Labette and Neosho counties. Schedules for the spotter talks can be found on individual National Weather Service sites for<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ddc/2025spottertalks" target="_blank">&nbsp;Dodge City</a>,<a href="https://www.weather.gov/gld/2025StormSpotterTrainingSchedule" target="_blank">&nbsp;Goodland</a>,<a href="https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/c82156f248964163b87ff425aad288d1" target="_blank">&nbsp;Topeka</a>&nbsp;and<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/spottertalks" target="_blank">&nbsp;Wichita</a>.A virtual spotter training program is also offered through the NWS Topeka office. It will take place March 17. People interested in the virtual program<a href="https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/4811465527032641113" target="_blank">&nbsp;can register online</a>.