ТОРЕКА - The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the Sundowner Inc. public water supply system located in Saline County. The advisory was issued because of a waterline break resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it's the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

Laboratory testing samples collected from the Sundowner Inc. indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at: 785-479-6864

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706028731415.jpeg" alt="The tap trickles while fully open and smells strongly of chlorine at Sundowner West Meadows Mobile Home Park resident Misty Livingston-Holmes' house on Wednesday, Jan. 17, near Hedville. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The tap trickles while fully open and smells strongly of chlorine at Sundowner West Meadows Mobile Home Park resident Misty Livingston-Holmes' house on Wednesday, Jan. 17, near Hedville. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>ТОРЕКА - The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the Sundowner Inc. public water supply system located in Saline County. The advisory was issued because of a waterline break resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it's the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.Laboratory testing samples collected from the Sundowner Inc. indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved.For consumer questions, please contact the water system at: 785-479-6864

Boil Water Advisory Rescinded for Sundowner Inc., Saline County

The Salina Post Sports Friday Night Preview show returns for week ten, as Tyler Henry and Devin Hanney get you ready for another exciting week of high school football.

On this week's show we take a full look back at week nine, chat with Ell-Saline head coach Joe Roche, and get you ready for Southeast of Saline vs. Norton, and Ell-Saline vs. Madison.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YtOhCQCNsDY"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Salina Post Sports Friday Night Preview show returns for week ten, as Tyler Henry and Devin Hanney get you ready for another exciting week of high school football.On this week's show we take a full look back at week nine, chat with Ell-Saline head coach Joe Roche, and get you ready for Southeast of Saline vs. Norton, and Ell-Saline vs. Madison.

Salina Post Sports Friday Night Preview: Week Ten

The Kansas holiday gift box is now available to order for the 2024 holiday season from the&nbsp; From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;state trademark program at the Kansas Department of Agriculture. 

The Kansas holiday gift box contains an assortment of products grown, raised or produced in Kansas, making gift-giving easy. Filled with wonderful Kansas-made products, you can have this box shipped directly to the recipient with a handwritten note.

The 2024 holiday gift box contains Honey (AJ Honey Farms in Salina); Beef Sticks (Pat's Beef Jerky from Liebenthal); MKC's Rub (MKC Kitchen LLC in Bazine); Sweet &amp; Tangy Mustard (Grannie's Homemade Mustard from Hillsboro); Mild and Sassy BBQ Sauce (Spice It Up from Bonner Springs); Baked Potato Soup Mix (Twisted Pepper in Wichita); Sand Plum Jelly (Bruce's Bullseye Farms in Leon); Summer Sausage (R Family Farms in Lebanon); Rainbow Pops Freeze-Dried Candy (Mammoth Mouth in LaCygne); Chocolate Sunflower (Sweet Granada in Emporia); and Milk Chocolate Toffee (Tonja's Toffee in Leoti).

Gift boxes can be purchased online at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fshop.fromthelandofkansas.com%2Ffrom-the-land-of-kansas-gift-box%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/010001930c5422cf-5917c10c-6c46-427c-81a2-9f5378bee547-000000/ohKoWd6BsP5i_DpzvABWPUkq7rzupSoY5NuJbfBUGC0=378">shop.fromthelandofkansas.com/from-the-land-of-kansas-gift-box</a>&nbsp;and can be shipped anywhere in the United States. For orders larger than 10, call 785-564-6759 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov">fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;to ensure holiday delivery. December 5 is the last day to order for guaranteed delivery before Christmas.

“Our holiday gift boxes are the perfect gift for anyone who loves Kansas. It’s a way to give back to Kansas ag businesses while making gift shopping simple and personalized,” said Sammy Gleason,&nbsp;From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;marketing manager. “We appreciate all our customers who come back each year to support our hard-working producers and look forward to new customers ordering for the first time.”

The&nbsp;From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;trademark program at KDA is designed to promote and celebrate agricultural experiences and products grown, raised or produced in Kansas. For more information about the holiday gift boxes or about the trademark program, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.fromthelandofkansas.com%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/010001930c5422cf-5917c10c-6c46-427c-81a2-9f5378bee547-000000/E-J_9gJiiW1iJxTaCYCSpG-3WNytpJ6TJvAy1yrqEPQ=378">fromthelandofkansas.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731096888112.jpeg" alt="Holiday Gift Box" />
 <figcaption>Holiday Gift Box</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe Kansas holiday gift box is now available to order for the 2024 holiday season from the&nbsp; From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;state trademark program at the Kansas Department of Agriculture. The Kansas holiday gift box contains an assortment of products grown, raised or produced in Kansas, making gift-giving easy. Filled with wonderful Kansas-made products, you can have this box shipped directly to the recipient with a handwritten note.The 2024 holiday gift box contains Honey (AJ Honey Farms in Salina); Beef Sticks (Pat's Beef Jerky from Liebenthal); MKC's Rub (MKC Kitchen LLC in Bazine); Sweet &amp; Tangy Mustard (Grannie's Homemade Mustard from Hillsboro); Mild and Sassy BBQ Sauce (Spice It Up from Bonner Springs); Baked Potato Soup Mix (Twisted Pepper in Wichita); Sand Plum Jelly (Bruce's Bullseye Farms in Leon); Summer Sausage (R Family Farms in Lebanon); Rainbow Pops Freeze-Dried Candy (Mammoth Mouth in LaCygne); Chocolate Sunflower (Sweet Granada in Emporia); and Milk Chocolate Toffee (Tonja's Toffee in Leoti).Gift boxes can be purchased online at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fshop.fromthelandofkansas.com%2Ffrom-the-land-of-kansas-gift-box%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/010001930c5422cf-5917c10c-6c46-427c-81a2-9f5378bee547-000000/ohKoWd6BsP5i_DpzvABWPUkq7rzupSoY5NuJbfBUGC0=378">shop.fromthelandofkansas.com/from-the-land-of-kansas-gift-box</a>&nbsp;and can be shipped anywhere in the United States. For orders larger than 10, call 785-564-6759 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov">fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;to ensure holiday delivery. December 5 is the last day to order for guaranteed delivery before Christmas.“Our holiday gift boxes are the perfect gift for anyone who loves Kansas. It’s a way to give back to Kansas ag businesses while making gift shopping simple and personalized,” said Sammy Gleason,&nbsp;From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;marketing manager. “We appreciate all our customers who come back each year to support our hard-working producers and look forward to new customers ordering for the first time.”The&nbsp;From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;trademark program at KDA is designed to promote and celebrate agricultural experiences and products grown, raised or produced in Kansas. For more information about the holiday gift boxes or about the trademark program, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.fromthelandofkansas.com%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/010001930c5422cf-5917c10c-6c46-427c-81a2-9f5378bee547-000000/E-J_9gJiiW1iJxTaCYCSpG-3WNytpJ6TJvAy1yrqEPQ=378">fromthelandofkansas.com</a>.

Salina's AJ Honey Farms featured in 'From the Land of Kansas' gift box

Typical work days at Kyler Knobbe’s Cimarron law practice include reminiscing life in southwest Kansas with clients, while also protecting their financial legacies.

“I’m into my second and third generations of families, and I like what I do,” said the attorney who has practiced law 51 years in Cimarron.

The dozens of folks — customers — who hale primarily from multiple southwest Kansas communities, represent much more than an income to the 75-year-old lawyer.

“They are friends and family. That’s my social life. We talk about our kids and their kids,” Knobbe said, along with revocable trusts, estate planning, limited liability companies, and succession planning, just to name a few legal subjects.

Lately, however, a harsh reality has been gnawing at the Spearville native. It worsened about five years back when a young couple asked him about establishing a will and trust for minor children.

“I did that and told them to come back in 20 years when the minor children are grown and we would do it differently. Then I thought ‘I might not be here in 20 years.’ I did the same thing for their grandparents and&nbsp;&nbsp;parents,” Knobbe said.

After some serious contemplation, he hatched a plan to conquer Father Time, or at least hold him off for awhile longer.

“I’m concerned with two things,” Knobbe said. “This office needs to stay open for my people, and I need a younger lawyer in here.”

He’s not planning to retire anytime soon, but serving his flock is paramount, and the solution is someone with more years of service to factor in.

That’s not easy when youth out-migration is so prominent in rural Kansas, along with a big shortage of lawyers.

But it’s not impossible, and Knobbe can prove it.

After some searching, and a bit of imagination and cooperation with another law firm, he found a perfect fit in Paige Harding, 25, of nearby Dodge City.

“She graduated from Washburn University (Topeka) and passed the bar (examination),” Knobbe said. “I can tell people I’ve got somebody here who wants to be here, and I’m excited about that.”

All true, said the young attorney who is living and working in Dodge City as part of the Salina-based Kennedy Berkley law firm, where she interned for one summer.

Starting Nov. 11, Harding will also work two days at week in Knobbe Law Office, which is now officially affiliated with Kennedy Berkley.

It lifted some burden from the shoulders of the still energetic, but aging lawyer.

“These are people I’ve represented forever, and finally, I’ve found a lawyer who grew up in western Kansas,” Knobbe said.

It’s a win-win for sure, because the arrangement also solidified young Harding’s life goals.

“I always knew I wanted to return to Dodge City. I am probably more unique in that way. I feel like I had a storybook childhood,” said Harding, who grew up on a farm in rural Ford County.

Despite an age difference, Knobbe can relate to Harding’s background. He, too, grew up around farming, but as a Spearville Pirate (they’re now the Lancers). Knobbe was active in sports.

“I was the starting point guard in basketball as a freshman and played pitcher and first base in baseball, sometimes right field,” he said. “After that, I got stuck in the custom cutting field. That ruined my baseball career.”

Graduating high school in 1967, Knobbe attended Dodge City Junior College and St. Mary of the Plains College, then Washburn School of Law in Topeka. After graduating in 1973, he went right to Cimarron to work for Bernie Frigon.

In what is now an ironic twist to Knobbe’s professional evolution, he interviewed and was offered a job by Bob Berkley in 1973. But like Harding, Knobbe’s hearts closer to home.

“I turned it down because I didn’t want go to the big city (Salina),” he said with a chuckle.

Some 10 months later, Knobbe and Philip Ridenour formed a law practice in Cimarron, and stayed together through 1991. Then they split up and Knobbe Law Office was born in the small town.

Knobbe’s most notable “claim to fame” was arguing a case before the United States Supreme Court in 1991, and won. He represented Tom Feist, founder of Feist Publications. He was Knobbe’s former history teacher at Spearville High School.

“You can be a small-town lawyer and do major cases,” Knobbe said. 

The Harding family came to Dodge City two generations before Paige. Her grandparents, John and Twyla, were Oklahomans. John got his start in banking in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and was offered a job at First National Bank of Dodge City in the early 1960s.

“Papa’s move to Dodge City changed my family’s life for generations.Those kinds of opportunities are still out here and why I chose to come home,” Paige Harding said.

Her academic journey followed a path similar to Knobbe’s, from Topeka back to southwest Kansas.

As the firstborn of Derrick and Jan Harding, Paige grew up with younger sisters Abby and Lauren, currently students at Washburn School of Law and the University of Kansas, respectively.

They grew up country girls, but also maintain strong ties to the Dodge City community, whether it be Final Fridays through the Carnegie Library, or other events. Paige was a TOC (Tournament of Champions) Girl, who helped plan the famed invitational high school boys basketball tournament.

The 2017 Dodge City High School graduate was a student at the University of Kansas when she was crowned Miss Dodge City in 2019, and while in Washburn University Law School was named Miss Kansas Volunteer 2023 for her volunteerism and community service. Harding was awarded a Dane Hanson Foundation Externship through Washburn, snaring six free hours of credit and a $5,000 scholarship.

She’s founded the nonprofit Purple Pals — co-based at KU and Oklahoma State University — connecting college students to people who are in the early stages of Alzheimer’s Disease.

The Kansas Supreme Court in 2022, launched the Rural Justice Initiative Committee, Harding said.

“(Members) were tasked with finding out the exact demographics of attorneys across Kansas,” she said, “and coming up with solutions to help solve this (attorney shortage) problem. They used my blog in their report and made that part of their grassroots movement. I was invited to a big meeting in September to speak on my experiences.”

Harding was a recipient of the Next Generations under 30 Leaders of Kansas Award.

While her name was circulating throughout Middle America, Harding longed for home. Her first love was growing up in the DC hinterlands and helping rural communities.&nbsp;

“We were either riding horses, fishing, or playing on the hay bales,” she said. “I was in the combine and grain cart, or pulling calves in the middle of the night. One time, Dad picked me up from dance lessons and I helped pull calves wearing a leotard and tights. People would be astounded.”

Harding is fully committed to life in southwest Kansas.&nbsp;

The Hardings no longer farm, but they are heavy into the cattle biz.

“I own a cattle company with my sisters,” Paige said.

Leaving her homeland was never an option, but it took some time during her higher education, before deciding on a career.

“My parents started recommending law school. I interned at (Dave Snapp Law Firm, Dodge City), but did not benefit the attorneys at all. I thought I wasted their time,” Harding said. “But they were nice enough to take a summer to teach me about the law and walk me through things.”

After three years in law school, including a summer 2023 internship at Kennedy Berkley, she graduated an Ichabod this past May, took the bar exam in July and in September was informed she passed.

“(Harding) has a gift in her ability to speak to people. She’s awesome, and fearless,” said Jim Angell, managing partner at Kennedy Berkley.

It didn’t take long for others to notice, and for some necessary pieces to fall into place, sealing solutions for the two attorneys, young and old.

“As an attorney, I love living in my hometown and serving the community that built me,” Harding wrote on her online blog,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://paigeharding.com/">paigeharding.com</a>

<a target="_blank" href="http://paigeharding.com/">Paige Harding | law</a>Paige Harding is a law student, small town supporter, and proud Kansan. Paige writes about her time in law school and highlights small towns.paigeharding.com.

“She’s coming to stay,” Knobbe said. “I can tell the people who were here this morning, signing their wills, ‘In 20 years somebody WILL be here to take care of you.’ ”

Knobbe recounts Supreme Court appearance

CIMARRON — Attorney Kyler Knobbe can recite many memorable moments in his law practice, but nothing compares in scope to Rural Telephone vs. Feist Publications in 1991 before the United States Supreme Court.

Standing at a podium in the high court in Washington, D.C., Knobbe can still recall justices in their black robes, seated before him.

They included Sandra Day O’Connor, William H. Rehnquist, and Antonin Scalia.

“I was nervous, but I made it through,” Knobbe said.

In the major copyright case, Plaintiffs Feist Publications argued that Rural Telephone’s refusal to license its white pages listings to Feist “at a reasonable rate,” was a violation of the Sherman Act. Rural Telephone claimed Feist was guilty of violating its copyright.

“These (Supreme Court) guys pick their cases. They don’t have to hear everything. They were after me right away,” Knobbe said. “Scalia was on my case.”

The High Court eventually ruled in favor of Feist.

The Cimarron attorney was gifted a quill pen that the Supreme Court marshal placed on his desk during the proceedings, “so you could take notes. They decided to give it to me.”

FACTOID: Kyler and Barbara Knobbe, who have been married 55 years, raised four children in Cimarron. Daughter Sayra Schartz who ranches with her husband Bill, in Meridian, Texas, have three children; Mack Knobbe, a chemical engineer in Long Beach, CA. has two children with his wife, Penny; and Molly Clemons, a registered nurse within the Carillon area of Roanoke, VA, has one child with her husband Tim. Reed Knobbe, a chemical engineer in Overland Park, is married to Lisa Knobbe.

FACTOID: Kyler Knobbe asked that special recognition be extended for two of his secretaries. The late Ann Rowh served the law practice for 47 years and was a longtime Gray County Fair Board treasurer. His current secretary, Erin Littrell, has been Knobbe’s secretary more than 20 years, and counting.

Tim Unruh volunteered this story for publication on Salina Post.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731095957180.jpeg" alt="Attorneys Kyler Knobbe, left, of Cimarron, and Paige Harding, of Dodge City, are practicing law together. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Attorneys Kyler Knobbe, left, of Cimarron, and Paige Harding, of Dodge City, are practicing law together. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM UNRUHTypical work days at Kyler Knobbe’s Cimarron law practice include reminiscing life in southwest Kansas with clients, while also protecting their financial legacies.“I’m into my second and third generations of families, and I like what I do,” said the attorney who has practiced law 51 years in Cimarron.The dozens of folks — customers — who hale primarily from multiple southwest Kansas communities, represent much more than an income to the 75-year-old lawyer.“They are friends and family. That’s my social life. We talk about our kids and their kids,” Knobbe said, along with revocable trusts, estate planning, limited liability companies, and succession planning, just to name a few legal subjects.Lately, however, a harsh reality has been gnawing at the Spearville native. It worsened about five years back when a young couple asked him about establishing a will and trust for minor children.“I did that and told them to come back in 20 years when the minor children are grown and we would do it differently. Then I thought ‘I might not be here in 20 years.’ I did the same thing for their grandparents and&nbsp;&nbsp;parents,” Knobbe said.After some serious contemplation, he hatched a plan to conquer Father Time, or at least hold him off for awhile longer.“I’m concerned with two things,” Knobbe said. “This office needs to stay open for my people, and I need a younger lawyer in here.”He’s not planning to retire anytime soon, but serving his flock is paramount, and the solution is someone with more years of service to factor in.That’s not easy when youth out-migration is so prominent in rural Kansas, along with a big shortage of lawyers.But it’s not impossible, and Knobbe can prove it.After some searching, and a bit of imagination and cooperation with another law firm, he found a perfect fit in Paige Harding, 25, of nearby Dodge City.“She graduated from Washburn University (Topeka) and passed the bar (examination),” Knobbe said. “I can tell people I’ve got somebody here who wants to be here, and I’m excited about that.”All true, said the young attorney who is living and working in Dodge City as part of the Salina-based Kennedy Berkley law firm, where she interned for one summer.Starting Nov. 11, Harding will also work two days at week in Knobbe Law Office, which is now officially affiliated with Kennedy Berkley.It lifted some burden from the shoulders of the still energetic, but aging lawyer.“These are people I’ve represented forever, and finally, I’ve found a lawyer who grew up in western Kansas,” Knobbe said.It’s a win-win for sure, because the arrangement also solidified young Harding’s life goals.“I always knew I wanted to return to Dodge City. I am probably more unique in that way. I feel like I had a storybook childhood,” said Harding, who grew up on a farm in rural Ford County.Despite an age difference, Knobbe can relate to Harding’s background. He, too, grew up around farming, but as a Spearville Pirate (they’re now the Lancers). Knobbe was active in sports.“I was the starting point guard in basketball as a freshman and played pitcher and first base in baseball, sometimes right field,” he said. “After that, I got stuck in the custom cutting field. That ruined my baseball career.”Graduating high school in 1967, Knobbe attended Dodge City Junior College and St. Mary of the Plains College, then Washburn School of Law in Topeka. After graduating in 1973, he went right to Cimarron to work for Bernie Frigon.In what is now an ironic twist to Knobbe’s professional evolution, he interviewed and was offered a job by Bob Berkley in 1973. But like Harding, Knobbe’s hearts closer to home.“I turned it down because I didn’t want go to the big city (Salina),” he said with a chuckle.Some 10 months later, Knobbe and Philip Ridenour formed a law practice in Cimarron, and stayed together through 1991. Then they split up and Knobbe Law Office was born in the small town.Knobbe’s most notable “claim to fame” was arguing a case before the United States Supreme Court in 1991, and won. He represented Tom Feist, founder of Feist Publications. He was Knobbe’s former history teacher at Spearville High School.“You can be a small-town lawyer and do major cases,” Knobbe said. (SEE SIDEBAR)The Harding family came to Dodge City two generations before Paige. Her grandparents, John and Twyla, were Oklahomans. John got his start in banking in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and was offered a job at First National Bank of Dodge City in the early 1960s.“Papa’s move to Dodge City changed my family’s life for generations.Those kinds of opportunities are still out here and why I chose to come home,” Paige Harding said.Her academic journey followed a path similar to Knobbe’s, from Topeka back to southwest Kansas.As the firstborn of Derrick and Jan Harding, Paige grew up with younger sisters Abby and Lauren, currently students at Washburn School of Law and the University of Kansas, respectively.They grew up country girls, but also maintain strong ties to the Dodge City community, whether it be Final Fridays through the Carnegie Library, or other events. Paige was a TOC (Tournament of Champions) Girl, who helped plan the famed invitational high school boys basketball tournament.The 2017 Dodge City High School graduate was a student at the University of Kansas when she was crowned Miss Dodge City in 2019, and while in Washburn University Law School was named Miss Kansas Volunteer 2023 for her volunteerism and community service. Harding was awarded a Dane Hanson Foundation Externship through Washburn, snaring six free hours of credit and a $5,000 scholarship.She’s founded the nonprofit Purple Pals — co-based at KU and Oklahoma State University — connecting college students to people who are in the early stages of Alzheimer’s Disease.The Kansas Supreme Court in 2022, launched the Rural Justice Initiative Committee, Harding said.“(Members) were tasked with finding out the exact demographics of attorneys across Kansas,” she said, “and coming up with solutions to help solve this (attorney shortage) problem. They used my blog in their report and made that part of their grassroots movement. I was invited to a big meeting in September to speak on my experiences.”Harding was a recipient of the Next Generations under 30 Leaders of Kansas Award.While her name was circulating throughout Middle America, Harding longed for home. Her first love was growing up in the DC hinterlands and helping rural communities.&nbsp;“We were either riding horses, fishing, or playing on the hay bales,” she said. “I was in the combine and grain cart, or pulling calves in the middle of the night. One time, Dad picked me up from dance lessons and I helped pull calves wearing a leotard and tights. People would be astounded.”Harding is fully committed to life in southwest Kansas.&nbsp;The Hardings no longer farm, but they are heavy into the cattle biz.“I own a cattle company with my sisters,” Paige said.Leaving her homeland was never an option, but it took some time during her higher education, before deciding on a career.“My parents started recommending law school. I interned at (Dave Snapp Law Firm, Dodge City), but did not benefit the attorneys at all. I thought I wasted their time,” Harding said. “But they were nice enough to take a summer to teach me about the law and walk me through things.”The law won.After three years in law school, including a summer 2023 internship at Kennedy Berkley, she graduated an Ichabod this past May, took the bar exam in July and in September was informed she passed.The Salina law firm came calling.“(Harding) has a gift in her ability to speak to people. She’s awesome, and fearless,” said Jim Angell, managing partner at Kennedy Berkley.It didn’t take long for others to notice, and for some necessary pieces to fall into place, sealing solutions for the two attorneys, young and old.“As an attorney, I love living in my hometown and serving the community that built me,” Harding wrote on her online blog,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://paigeharding.com/">paigeharding.com</a><a target="_blank" href="http://paigeharding.com/">Paige Harding | law</a>Paige Harding is a law student, small town supporter, and proud Kansan. Paige writes about her time in law school and highlights small towns.paigeharding.com.“She’s coming to stay,” Knobbe said. “I can tell the people who were here this morning, signing their wills, ‘In 20 years somebody WILL be here to take care of you.’ ”<h2>SIDEBAR:</h2>Knobbe recounts Supreme Court appearanceCIMARRON — Attorney Kyler Knobbe can recite many memorable moments in his law practice, but nothing compares in scope to Rural Telephone vs. Feist Publications in 1991 before the United States Supreme Court.Standing at a podium in the high court in Washington, D.C., Knobbe can still recall justices in their black robes, seated before him.They included Sandra Day O’Connor, William H. Rehnquist, and Antonin Scalia.“I was nervous, but I made it through,” Knobbe said.In the major copyright case, Plaintiffs Feist Publications argued that Rural Telephone’s refusal to license its white pages listings to Feist “at a reasonable rate,” was a violation of the Sherman Act. Rural Telephone claimed Feist was guilty of violating its copyright.“These (Supreme Court) guys pick their cases. They don’t have to hear everything. They were after me right away,” Knobbe said. “Scalia was on my case.”The High Court eventually ruled in favor of Feist.The Cimarron attorney was gifted a quill pen that the Supreme Court marshal placed on his desk during the proceedings, “so you could take notes. They decided to give it to me.”FACTOID: Kyler and Barbara Knobbe, who have been married 55 years, raised four children in Cimarron. Daughter Sayra Schartz who ranches with her husband Bill, in Meridian, Texas, have three children; Mack Knobbe, a chemical engineer in Long Beach, CA. has two children with his wife, Penny; and Molly Clemons, a registered nurse within the Carillon area of Roanoke, VA, has one child with her husband Tim. Reed Knobbe, a chemical engineer in Overland Park, is married to Lisa Knobbe.FACTOID: Kyler Knobbe asked that special recognition be extended for two of his secretaries. The late Ann Rowh served the law practice for 47 years and was a longtime Gray County Fair Board treasurer. His current secretary, Erin Littrell, has been Knobbe’s secretary more than 20 years, and counting.Tim Unruh volunteered this story for publication on Salina Post.&nbsp;

Kansas ‘built’ attorneys come home — Ichabods team up to serve SWKS clients

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with entrepreneur Kris Munsch.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/L_j7J8c_66g?si=kAHfEv8jxgGZL6_b" 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>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with entrepreneur Kris Munsch.

🎤Forward Ever: Entrepreneur Kris Munsch

By NATE KING Salina Post

October brought unusually high temperatures and dry conditions to Salina, with temperatures reaching levels not seen in more than 60 years.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita, Salina recorded an average temperature of 63.5°F in October, a full 6.5 degrees above average. This made it the eighth warmest October since 1900—record highs, including a sweltering 97°F on October 5.

Salina received only 0.99 inches of rain, falling 1.17 inches below average, making it the 29th driest October. This lack of rainfall worsened drought conditions across central Kansas, with parts of Saline County categorized as experiencing severe drought.

Early November rains bring temporary drought relief

The first week of November brought much-needed rainfall to central Kansas, with Salina receiving approximately 1.5-2 inches of rain since the beginning of the month. NWS meteorologist Kevin Dharamfal explained the positive impact of these rains.

“It’s still dry. There are some areas of moderate drought out towards Russell and Great Bend,” Dharamfal said. “In the Salina area, especially along I-135 to Wichita, where we’ve seen severe and even extreme drought in recent months, the situation has gradually improved with these rainfall events.”

Dharamfal cautioned that ongoing precipitation events are crucial for sustained drought recovery.&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/8327a820-d273-4a7f-8445-83e303a5eeab">The Cheney Reservoir,</a>&nbsp;a critical water source for Wichita, remains low despite recent rainfall.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Cheney responded somewhat,” Dharamfal said, “But it’s going to take several more events like this to really add significantly more water to the reservoir.”

The recent rainfall has also lowered the immediate risk of wildfires. Dharamfal noted that cooler November temperatures and frequent rain have “muted” fire hazards for now.

“If we continue to see the cooler temperatures and more frequent precipitation, then it's going to keep the threat for wildfires muted as we go through the rest of the month,” Dharamfal said.&nbsp;

Looking ahead, the NWS anticipates that La Niña will shape this winter’s climate. The Climate Prediction Center (CPC) gives a 60% chance that La Niña will form between September and November 2024 and continue through at least March 2025. Recent sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific have been near or below average, signaling La Niña’s development.

If this trend continues, Kansas can expect a warmer and drier-than-average winter. Specifically, the CPC forecasts that from November 2024 through January 2025, Kansas will likely experience above-average temperatures, with southwest Kansas seeing below-average precipitation.

This dry winter could mean that Salina’s recent drought relief may be short-lived. Dharamfal warned that if conditions dry out, the moisture deficit could return by early spring, increasing wildfire risks.

“If we see a warmer, drier winter, as is possible with La Niña, our next potential for a significant wildfire season would be in the spring, before things start to green up,” Dharamfal said.

For Salina, La Niña could lead to limited rain or snowfall through January, which may strain soil moisture and water supplies. While residents can enjoy the current relief from drought, the winter forecast indicates that this moisture respite may not last, as Kansas faces a likely warmer and drier season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731077911067.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By NATE KING Salina PostOctober brought unusually high temperatures and dry conditions to Salina, with temperatures reaching levels not seen in more than 60 years.According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita, Salina recorded an average temperature of 63.5°F in October, a full 6.5 degrees above average. This made it the eighth warmest October since 1900—record highs, including a sweltering 97°F on October 5.Salina received only 0.99 inches of rain, falling 1.17 inches below average, making it the 29th driest October. This lack of rainfall worsened drought conditions across central Kansas, with parts of Saline County categorized as experiencing severe drought.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731078015923.png" alt="NWS" />
 <figcaption>NWS</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731079429466.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Early November rains bring temporary drought relief</h2>The first week of November brought much-needed rainfall to central Kansas, with Salina receiving approximately 1.5-2 inches of rain since the beginning of the month. NWS meteorologist Kevin Dharamfal explained the positive impact of these rains.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731078108361.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>“It’s still dry. There are some areas of moderate drought out towards Russell and Great Bend,” Dharamfal said. “In the Salina area, especially along I-135 to Wichita, where we’ve seen severe and even extreme drought in recent months, the situation has gradually improved with these rainfall events.”Dharamfal cautioned that ongoing precipitation events are crucial for sustained drought recovery.&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/8327a820-d273-4a7f-8445-83e303a5eeab">The Cheney Reservoir,</a>&nbsp;a critical water source for Wichita, remains low despite recent rainfall.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Cheney responded somewhat,” Dharamfal said, “But it’s going to take several more events like this to really add significantly more water to the reservoir.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731079146412.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The recent rainfall has also lowered the immediate risk of wildfires. Dharamfal noted that cooler November temperatures and frequent rain have “muted” fire hazards for now.“If we continue to see the cooler temperatures and more frequent precipitation, then it's going to keep the threat for wildfires muted as we go through the rest of the month,” Dharamfal said.&nbsp;<h2>Winter Outlook</h2>Looking ahead, the NWS anticipates that La Niña will shape this winter’s climate. The Climate Prediction Center (CPC) gives a 60% chance that La Niña will form between September and November 2024 and continue through at least March 2025. Recent sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific have been near or below average, signaling La Niña’s development.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731079287432.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>If this trend continues, Kansas can expect a warmer and drier-than-average winter. Specifically, the CPC forecasts that from November 2024 through January 2025, Kansas will likely experience above-average temperatures, with southwest Kansas seeing below-average precipitation.This dry winter could mean that Salina’s recent drought relief may be short-lived. Dharamfal warned that if conditions dry out, the moisture deficit could return by early spring, increasing wildfire risks.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731079366938.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>“If we see a warmer, drier winter, as is possible with La Niña, our next potential for a significant wildfire season would be in the spring, before things start to green up,” Dharamfal said.For Salina, La Niña could lead to limited rain or snowfall through January, which may strain soil moisture and water supplies. While residents can enjoy the current relief from drought, the winter forecast indicates that this moisture respite may not last, as Kansas faces a likely warmer and drier season.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731081011032.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731081052572.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

NWS: October warmth sets records; rain eases drought but dry winter likely

By LISA NEWMAN K-State Research and Extension – Central Kansas District Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent

November marks the annual Kansas Reads to Preschoolers event, a statewide initiative dedicated to fostering a love of reading in children from birth to five years old. This year’s chosen title is How Do You Hug a Porcupine/¿Cómo abrazas a un puercoespín? by Laurie Isop.

By encouraging parents, librarians, and caregivers to read aloud, Kansas Reads to Preschoolers aims to ignite a passion for learning and literacy in young children. Reading aloud offers numerous benefits, including language development, as children are exposed to a wide range of vocabulary and sentence structures that help them develop strong language skills. It also fosters cognitive development, as reading aloud stimulates imagination, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.&nbsp; Reading to young children supports social and emotional development, helping them learn important skills like empathy, compassion, and problem-solving.

Tips for reading to young children include starting early, as even newborns benefit from hearing stories. Choosing engaging books with colorful illustrations, simple language, and themes that interest your child can also make reading more enjoyable. Making reading interactive by asking questions, pointing to pictures, and encouraging your child to make predictions and share their thoughts further enriches the experience. Reading with expression by using different voices and tones helps bring characters to life.

Reading for children under five is not just about decoding words; it’s a multi-faceted process. Print awareness involves understanding that print carries meaning and recognizing letters and words. Phonological awareness includes recognizing sounds in words and understanding how they blend together. Vocabulary development happens as children build a strong vocabulary through exposure to new words. Comprehension involves understanding the meaning of what is read. By providing children with rich language experiences, parents and caregivers can lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning and literacy.

For more information about Kansas Reads to Preschoolers, please visit <a href="https://library.ks.gov/librarians/prek">Kansas Reads to Preschoolers</a>.

For developmentally appropriate literacy approaches, visit <a href="https://www.naeyc.org/resources/topics/literacy">NAEYC Literacy Resources</a>.

To learn more about resources from K-State Research and Extension – Central Kansas District, check out their website <a href="https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731073668646.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By LISA NEWMAN K-State Research and Extension – Central Kansas District Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent November marks the annual Kansas Reads to Preschoolers event, a statewide initiative dedicated to fostering a love of reading in children from birth to five years old. This year’s chosen title is How Do You Hug a Porcupine/¿Cómo abrazas a un puercoespín? by Laurie Isop. By encouraging parents, librarians, and caregivers to read aloud, Kansas Reads to Preschoolers aims to ignite a passion for learning and literacy in young children. Reading aloud offers numerous benefits, including language development, as children are exposed to a wide range of vocabulary and sentence structures that help them develop strong language skills. It also fosters cognitive development, as reading aloud stimulates imagination, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.&nbsp; Reading to young children supports social and emotional development, helping them learn important skills like empathy, compassion, and problem-solving. Tips for reading to young children include starting early, as even newborns benefit from hearing stories. Choosing engaging books with colorful illustrations, simple language, and themes that interest your child can also make reading more enjoyable. Making reading interactive by asking questions, pointing to pictures, and encouraging your child to make predictions and share their thoughts further enriches the experience. Reading with expression by using different voices and tones helps bring characters to life. Reading for children under five is not just about decoding words; it’s a multi-faceted process. Print awareness involves understanding that print carries meaning and recognizing letters and words. Phonological awareness includes recognizing sounds in words and understanding how they blend together. Vocabulary development happens as children build a strong vocabulary through exposure to new words. Comprehension involves understanding the meaning of what is read. By providing children with rich language experiences, parents and caregivers can lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning and literacy. For more information about Kansas Reads to Preschoolers, please visit <a href="https://library.ks.gov/librarians/prek">Kansas Reads to Preschoolers</a>. For developmentally appropriate literacy approaches, visit <a href="https://www.naeyc.org/resources/topics/literacy">NAEYC Literacy Resources</a>. To learn more about resources from K-State Research and Extension – Central Kansas District, check out their website <a href="https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu">here</a>.

NEMAN: Kansas Reads to Preschoolers: A statewide effort to spark young minds

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;Criminal Damage to Property; Value Unknown

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Return for court testimony

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

Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;DUI; 3rd in 10y;comp evidence blood/breath .08+

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731071189058.png" alt="Castaneda,Jordan Axel" />
 <figcaption>Castaneda,Jordan Axel</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Castaneda,Jordan AxelREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Value Unknown<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731071249044.jpeg" alt=" Drummond,Zachary Robert" />
 <figcaption> Drummond,Zachary Robert</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Drummond,Zachary RobertREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Return for court testimony<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731071299245.jpeg" alt="McConnell,Dan Leroy" />
 <figcaption>McConnell,Dan Leroy</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;McConnell,Dan LeroyREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731071375371.jpeg" alt="Redding,Buddy Aron" />
 <figcaption>Redding,Buddy Aron</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Redding,Buddy AronREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circ; misdViolation of protection order; Unknown circumstance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731071478491.jpeg" alt=" Schultz,Alyssa Dora" />
 <figcaption> Schultz,Alyssa Dora</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Schultz,Alyssa DoraREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;DUI; 3rd in 10y;comp evidence blood/breath .08+

Saline County Jail Bookings, Nov. 8

On Saturday, November 2, 2024, at about 1:50 A.M., a vehicle fire was reported in the parking lot of 2140 E. Crawford, Salina, Saline County, Kansas.&nbsp; Upon arrival, a white&nbsp;1999 Dodge Ram 1500 was located fully engulfed.

A witness in the area saw a male running from the vicinity of the truck during the early stages of the fire. The subject was described as a white male with a light colored beanie, black jacket, and blue jeans.

Fire investigators classified the fire as an arson, with the truck valued at over $4000.

If you have any information concerning this incident or identification of the individual involved, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS. You can also make an on—line 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, case 2024-32951.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731071008361.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;The subject was described as a white male with a light colored beanie, black jacket, and blue jeans " />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;The subject was described as a white male with a light colored beanie, black jacket, and blue jeans </figcaption>
 </figure>On Saturday, November 2, 2024, at about 1:50 A.M., a vehicle fire was reported in the parking lot of 2140 E. Crawford, Salina, Saline County, Kansas.&nbsp; Upon arrival, a white&nbsp;1999 Dodge Ram 1500 was located fully engulfed.A witness in the area saw a male running from the vicinity of the truck during the early stages of the fire. The subject was described as a white male with a light colored beanie, black jacket, and blue jeans.Fire investigators classified the fire as an arson, with the truck valued at over $4000.If you have any information concerning this incident or identification of the individual involved, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS. You can also make an on—line 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, case 2024-32951.

Vehicle arsonist is this week’s Crimestoppers

<a href="https://www.salinatech.edu/">Salina Area Technical College</a> will hold a chicken noodle dinner fundraiser on Friday, November 8, 2024, to benefit its Student Emergency Fund. The fund provides support to students facing unexpected financial challenges. The event will take place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Salina VFW, located at 1108 W Crawford St.

Each $10 meal includes chicken noodles, mashed potatoes, green beans, and a roll. Attendees can dine in or carry out. In addition to the meal, the event will feature a bake sale and a 50/50 raffle, allowing guests to win cash prizes while supporting students in need.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731011080511.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POST<a href="https://www.salinatech.edu/">Salina Area Technical College</a> will hold a chicken noodle dinner fundraiser on Friday, November 8, 2024, to benefit its Student Emergency Fund. The fund provides support to students facing unexpected financial challenges. The event will take place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Salina VFW, located at 1108 W Crawford St.Each $10 meal includes chicken noodles, mashed potatoes, green beans, and a roll. Attendees can dine in or carry out. In addition to the meal, the event will feature a bake sale and a 50/50 raffle, allowing guests to win cash prizes while supporting students in need.

Salina Tech hosts chicken noodle dinner fundraiser Friday

Last updated 11/7/2024 at 2:00 p.m.&nbsp; By SALINA POST

On November 4, the traffic signal cabinet at the intersection of South Ninth Street and Crawford Street was struck in an accident. The City of Salina Public Works Department has ordered parts, but due to availability, some parts are still 2-4 weeks out. 

The staff has temporarily wired the traffic signal cabinet for the intersection to use timed cycles for each traffic signal phase until the necessary electronic components for automatic traffic detection are available.

On November 4, the traffic signal cabinet&nbsp;at the intersection of South Ninth Street and Crawford Street&nbsp;was struck&nbsp;due to&nbsp;an accident. The City of Salina Public Works Department&nbsp;has ordered parts but due to&nbsp;availability, the intersection lights&nbsp;have been wired to function&nbsp;in flashing red&nbsp;with&nbsp;portable stop signs to help direct traffic through the intersection.&nbsp;Current estimated timeframe for&nbsp;complete&nbsp;repair&nbsp;is 2-4 weeks due to electronic parts availability.

Reminder,&nbsp;when approaching a blacked-out or flashing red light intersection&nbsp;you should come to a complete stop, check all directions to ensure there is no traffic and proceed when clear. The driver that approaches the signal first determines the right-of-way. Both blacked-out and flashing red lights have the same meaning as a STOP sign.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730754738552.jpeg" alt="South Ninth and Crawford Streets." />
 <figcaption>South Ninth and Crawford Streets.</figcaption>
 </figure>Last updated 11/7/2024 at 2:00 p.m.&nbsp; By SALINA POSTOn November 4, the traffic signal cabinet at the intersection of South Ninth Street and Crawford Street was struck in an accident. The City of Salina Public Works Department has ordered parts, but due to availability, some parts are still 2-4 weeks out. The staff has temporarily wired the traffic signal cabinet for the intersection to use timed cycles for each traffic signal phase until the necessary electronic components for automatic traffic detection are available.On November 4, the traffic signal cabinet&nbsp;at the intersection of South Ninth Street and Crawford Street&nbsp;was struck&nbsp;due to&nbsp;an accident. The City of Salina Public Works Department&nbsp;has ordered parts but due to&nbsp;availability, the intersection lights&nbsp;have been wired to function&nbsp;in flashing red&nbsp;with&nbsp;portable stop signs to help direct traffic through the intersection.&nbsp;Current estimated timeframe for&nbsp;complete&nbsp;repair&nbsp;is 2-4 weeks due to electronic parts availability.Reminder,&nbsp;when approaching a blacked-out or flashing red light intersection&nbsp;you should come to a complete stop, check all directions to ensure there is no traffic and proceed when clear. The driver that approaches the signal first determines the right-of-way. Both blacked-out and flashing red lights have the same meaning as a STOP sign.

UPDATED: City says Traffic signal repair at South Ninth and Crawford will take up to 4 weeks to repair

Salina’s Project SEARCH internship program, based at Salina Regional Health Center (SRHC), received an Excellent Employment Outcome Award at the annual conference in Albuquerque, NM.

“Our team was recognized for achieving 80% employment for our 2022-23 class of interns,” said Ardis Bryan, program instructor. The program is a one year, high school transitions program which provides training and education leading to employment for individuals with disabilities. The program, now in its 14th year, operates on-site at SRHC.

“Our students learn through a combination of rotational internships with on-the-job training, a business liaison and a training classroom,” Bryan said. “The authentic workplace experiences made possible by our partners are invaluable for our students.”

The program's success is thanks to the ongoing collaboration of Salina Regional Health Center, Central Kansas Cooperative in Education, USD 305 Salina Public Schools, Salina Regional Health Foundation, Workforce Solutions, Inc., OCCK, Inc., Independent Connection and Kansas Rehabilitation Services. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731008114986.jpeg" alt="Pictured: Back row L-R: Debbie Mendenhall, Darla Warford. Front row, seated L-R: Theresa Glassburn, Ardis Bryan, Tacita Slay. Photo Courtesy USD 305." />
 <figcaption>Pictured: Back row L-R: Debbie Mendenhall, Darla Warford. Front row, seated L-R: Theresa Glassburn, Ardis Bryan, Tacita Slay. Photo Courtesy USD 305.</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedSalina’s Project SEARCH internship program, based at Salina Regional Health Center (SRHC), received an Excellent Employment Outcome Award at the annual conference in Albuquerque, NM.“Our team was recognized for achieving 80% employment for our 2022-23 class of interns,” said Ardis Bryan, program instructor. The program is a one year, high school transitions program which provides training and education leading to employment for individuals with disabilities. The program, now in its 14th year, operates on-site at SRHC.“Our students learn through a combination of rotational internships with on-the-job training, a business liaison and a training classroom,” Bryan said. “The authentic workplace experiences made possible by our partners are invaluable for our students.”The program's success is thanks to the ongoing collaboration of Salina Regional Health Center, Central Kansas Cooperative in Education, USD 305 Salina Public Schools, Salina Regional Health Foundation, Workforce Solutions, Inc., OCCK, Inc., Independent Connection and Kansas Rehabilitation Services. (

Salina’s Project SEARCH recognized for excellent employment outcomes

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King welcomes Jeff Hammond, the City of Salina's Director of <a href="https://www.salina-ks.gov/parks-and-recreation">Parks and Recreation</a>, for an engaging conversation about the city’s parks, recreation projects, and community initiatives. Jeff shares a little about his career and what led him and his family to live in Salina.

They dive into the recent upgrades and future plans for Salina’s parks, including significant improvements to <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/206560ae-b9b5-4d46-8ac0-d62cf1f01abf">Jerry Ivey Park</a> and continued implementation of the Parks Master Plan.&nbsp;

Jeff also talks about Dean Evans Stadium, updates on the overcrowded animal shelter, and the ongoing community debate around breed-specific legislation.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Jeff Hammond, Salina Director of Parks and Recreation" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=vuv2v-173174c-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By SALINA POSTIn this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King welcomes Jeff Hammond, the City of Salina's Director of <a href="https://www.salina-ks.gov/parks-and-recreation">Parks and Recreation</a>, for an engaging conversation about the city’s parks, recreation projects, and community initiatives. Jeff shares a little about his career and what led him and his family to live in Salina.They dive into the recent upgrades and future plans for Salina’s parks, including significant improvements to <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/206560ae-b9b5-4d46-8ac0-d62cf1f01abf">Jerry Ivey Park</a> and continued implementation of the Parks Master Plan.&nbsp;Jeff also talks about Dean Evans Stadium, updates on the overcrowded animal shelter, and the ongoing community debate around breed-specific legislation.&nbsp;<h2>More from King in the Community</h2><div><iframe title="King in the Community" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=skmut-558a99-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=11&filter=publish_time&publish_start=2024-07-01&publish_end=2024-11-06&ss=f29e349ea1ba2b00b5f8fd9431d57a14&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

🎙King in the Community — Jeff Hammond, Salina Parks and Recreation Director

By NATE KING Salina Post

Salina Police Department (SPD) officers arrested four individuals on Wednesday in connection with the theft of a 2011 red Ford Flex, reported stolen from a residence in Salina earlier this week.

The theft occurred on the evening of Tuesday, Nov. 5, when a 35-year-old Salina woman called SPD to report her vehicle stolen from her driveway in the 600 block of Johnstown Avenue. 

"She told officers that the suspects who took her vehicle were known to her," said SPD Cpt. James Feldman. "She called to report it to us just before 10 p.m. on Tuesday."

According to Feldman, the vehicle is valued at $10,000.&nbsp;

Then, on November 6, at approximately 11:30 a.m., an off-duty Saline County Sheriff's Deputy noticed a disturbance on Maple Street and saw the stolen red Ford Flex leaving the area. Recognizing the stolen vehicle, he alerted SPD. 

"When officers began going to the area. We [SPD] then started getting reports from citizens about the vehicle driving fast and carelessly through town," Feldman said. "We then used the FLOCK cameras to begin monitoring it when an officer observed it in the area of 12th and North Street driving at a high rate of speed."

Feldman said that a chase was not conducted due to the excessive distance between the officer and the suspect vehicle. 

"Officers got in the area and located the vehicle backed into a stall at the Budget King Motel," Feldman said. "Four males were seen walking away from the vehicle. They were detained."

SPD arrested 20-year-old Rashawn Garcia of Salina on requested charges of possession of stolen property. SPD also arrested and requested charges against a 16-year-old male from Hutchinson for possession of stolen property. Additionally, two 17-year-olds from Salina, identified as the primary suspects, face charges of stealing the vehicle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592416874210.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By NATE KING Salina PostSalina Police Department (SPD) officers arrested four individuals on Wednesday in connection with the theft of a 2011 red Ford Flex, reported stolen from a residence in Salina earlier this week.The theft occurred on the evening of Tuesday, Nov. 5, when a 35-year-old Salina woman called SPD to report her vehicle stolen from her driveway in the 600 block of Johnstown Avenue. "She told officers that the suspects who took her vehicle were known to her," said SPD Cpt. James Feldman. "She called to report it to us just before 10 p.m. on Tuesday."According to Feldman, the vehicle is valued at $10,000.&nbsp;Then, on November 6, at approximately 11:30 a.m., an off-duty Saline County Sheriff's Deputy noticed a disturbance on Maple Street and saw the stolen red Ford Flex leaving the area. Recognizing the stolen vehicle, he alerted SPD. "When officers began going to the area. We [SPD] then started getting reports from citizens about the vehicle driving fast and carelessly through town," Feldman said. "We then used the FLOCK cameras to begin monitoring it when an officer observed it in the area of 12th and North Street driving at a high rate of speed."Feldman said that a chase was not conducted due to the excessive distance between the officer and the suspect vehicle. "Officers got in the area and located the vehicle backed into a stall at the Budget King Motel," Feldman said. "Four males were seen walking away from the vehicle. They were detained."SPD arrested 20-year-old Rashawn Garcia of Salina on requested charges of possession of stolen property. SPD also arrested and requested charges against a 16-year-old male from Hutchinson for possession of stolen property. Additionally, two 17-year-olds from Salina, identified as the primary suspects, face charges of stealing the vehicle.

Stolen vehicle recovered in Salina, four arrested

A 56-year-old woman from Culver received medical attention after a Wednesday rollover crash involving a deer on Hedville Road in Saline County.

According to Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan, the woman was driving southbound on Hedville Road at around 7:45 a.m. when a deer entered the roadway. She swerved to avoid the animal, causing her vehicle to roll off the west side of the road. The car was then impaled by a fence post, briefly trapping the woman inside.

Soldan said Saline County EMS arrived quickly on the scene and transported the woman to the Salina Regional Health Center with non-life-threatening injuries.

The Kansas Highway Patrol and Saline County Sheriff's Office remind motorists to stay safe on the roads. Drivers are urged to be extra alert at dawn and dusk, when deer are most active. If you see one deer, expect others, as they often travel in groups. Reduce speed and be vigilant near wooded areas, parks, golf courses, and water sources. Deer crossing signs indicate areas with high rates of vehicle-deer collisions, so extra caution is advised in those areas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730996786959.jpeg" alt="A&nbsp;56-year-old Culver woman swerved to miss a deer on Headville Road. Her 2011 Ford Escape rolled into the West roadway.&nbsp;Photo Courtesy of&nbsp;Saline County Sheriff's Office.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>A&nbsp;56-year-old Culver woman swerved to miss a deer on Headville Road. Her 2011 Ford Escape rolled into the West roadway.&nbsp;Photo Courtesy of&nbsp;Saline County Sheriff's Office.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTA 56-year-old woman from Culver received medical attention after a Wednesday rollover crash involving a deer on Hedville Road in Saline County.According to Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan, the woman was driving southbound on Hedville Road at around 7:45 a.m. when a deer entered the roadway. She swerved to avoid the animal, causing her vehicle to roll off the west side of the road. The car was then impaled by a fence post, briefly trapping the woman inside.Soldan said Saline County EMS arrived quickly on the scene and transported the woman to the Salina Regional Health Center with non-life-threatening injuries.The Kansas Highway Patrol and Saline County Sheriff's Office remind motorists to stay safe on the roads. Drivers are urged to be extra alert at dawn and dusk, when deer are most active. If you see one deer, expect others, as they often travel in groups. Reduce speed and be vigilant near wooded areas, parks, golf courses, and water sources. Deer crossing signs indicate areas with high rates of vehicle-deer collisions, so extra caution is advised in those areas.

 Culver woman hospitalized after swerving to miss deer

The City of Salina and the Department of Arts &amp; Humanities are advancing an art integration project at Fire Station #4 near Crawford Steet and Markley Road. Identified as a Capital Improvement Project (CIP), the station is considered suitable for art integration, with a focus on community input and thorough review before the final design is presented to the city commission.

City staff and the project’s site committee prioritized working with local or regional artists or design teams. Artists and designers residing in Kansas can request the call for art proposals packet by contacting the art services coordinator at Salina Arts &amp; Humanities. Applicants should have prior experience in large-scale, outdoor public art and be prepared to submit examples of past work with their proposal. Interested artists must contact the Art Services Coordinator by November 15, 2024, to receive a packet.

Three areas at Fire Station #4 have been identified for design enhancement rather than a standalone art piece, reducing the overall cost of integration and addressing elements that must be included in the construction project. 

A safety wall between the station's parking lot and the Berkley Family Recreational area.

A screen to cover HVAC units on the northwest corner.

Artists are encouraged to design for all three areas with separate budgets, allowing each element to be reviewed individually for community and financial suitability.

The design for Fire Station #4 should reflect a strong sense of community pride, embodying values such as honoring crew and personnel, selfless service, protection, and fostering community engagement. The design should harmonize with the station’s architecture, providing a sense of place specific to the firehouse.

 It should be visible to both pedestrians and motorists, representing the community’s vibrancy and future vision. While incorporating aesthetics and functionality, the design must remain practical for the firefighters who live and work there. Elements of historical imagery are welcome but not limited to realistic depictions; abstract shapes, colors, textures, and patterns may also be used.

Safety is crucial to the design’s conceptualization, considering its location near major roads and parking areas. The design should address potential safety concerns, with an eye toward future population growth and increased traffic. It should possess a timeless quality, avoiding specific historical periods or trends, ensuring the firehouse remains a lasting source of community pride.

The approved budget for art integration ranges from $10,000 to a maximum of $100,000. Artists who receive the packet may visit the site and consult with City staff to inform their creative process. The Site Committee, established under the City’s Community Art &amp; Design Policy, will review proposals, ask questions, and make recommendations. Following the Site Committee’s recommendation, the proposal will go through CAD, the Arts &amp; Humanities Commission, and the City Commission for final approval, amendment, or denial.

Crystal Hammerschmidt, Art Services Coordinator at Salina Arts &amp; HumanitiesEmail: <a>Crystal.hammerschmidt@salina.org </a>Office: 785-309-5770

For more information on public art, maps, or the CAD Committee, please visit the Salina Arts &amp; Humanities website. Additional questions about public art in Salina can be directed to <a>sah@salina.org</a> or by calling 785-309-5770.

Salina Arts &amp; Humanities, a department of the City of Salina, has served as an arts advocate and resource partner since 1966. Its programs include the Smoky Hill River Festival, Horizons Grants Program, Smoky Hill Museum, Arts Infusion Program in schools, Community Art &amp; Design, and Creative Connections, all located at 211 W. Iron Avenue in Salina.

Since the establishment of the Arts &amp; Humanities Department in 1966, Salina has been a cultural leader in Kansas. The city’s arts programs and services, offered by both private and public entities, are comparable to those in cities three times its size. On July 17, 2000, the Salina City Commission adopted a resolution establishing a Community Art and Design (CAD) Program. This program allows the city to initiate CAD projects and promotes public art’s benefits to the community. The CAD Committee and related policies guide artists through the design and review process.

The CAD Program’s established goals include expanding opportunities for residents and visitors to experience Salina's artistic and cultural heritage, enhancing the design of city infrastructure, contributing to economic development and cultural tourism, fostering public/private partnerships, increasing community identity, and engaging citizens in designing their environments. Additionally, the program aims to evoke thoughtful responses from residents and visitors to Salina’s built environment and to provide information about the CAD Program and its projects.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730995500945.png" alt="The green sections in the drawing above indicate the locations for integrated public art at the new Salina Fire Station Four. Photo courtesy of the City of Salina" />
 <figcaption>The green sections in the drawing above indicate the locations for integrated public art at the new Salina Fire Station Four. Photo courtesy of the City of Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe City of Salina and the Department of Arts &amp; Humanities are advancing an art integration project at Fire Station #4 near Crawford Steet and Markley Road. Identified as a Capital Improvement Project (CIP), the station is considered suitable for art integration, with a focus on community input and thorough review before the final design is presented to the city commission.City staff and the project’s site committee prioritized working with local or regional artists or design teams. Artists and designers residing in Kansas can request the call for art proposals packet by contacting the art services coordinator at Salina Arts &amp; Humanities. Applicants should have prior experience in large-scale, outdoor public art and be prepared to submit examples of past work with their proposal. Interested artists must contact the Art Services Coordinator by November 15, 2024, to receive a packet.<h2>Project Overview and Vision Statement</h2>Three areas at Fire Station #4 have been identified for design enhancement rather than a standalone art piece, reducing the overall cost of integration and addressing elements that must be included in the construction project. The locations are:A safety wall between the station's parking lot and the Berkley Family Recreational area.A west-facing identifier wall.A screen to cover HVAC units on the northwest corner.Artists are encouraged to design for all three areas with separate budgets, allowing each element to be reviewed individually for community and financial suitability.The design for Fire Station #4 should reflect a strong sense of community pride, embodying values such as honoring crew and personnel, selfless service, protection, and fostering community engagement. The design should harmonize with the station’s architecture, providing a sense of place specific to the firehouse. It should be visible to both pedestrians and motorists, representing the community’s vibrancy and future vision. While incorporating aesthetics and functionality, the design must remain practical for the firefighters who live and work there. Elements of historical imagery are welcome but not limited to realistic depictions; abstract shapes, colors, textures, and patterns may also be used.Safety is crucial to the design’s conceptualization, considering its location near major roads and parking areas. The design should address potential safety concerns, with an eye toward future population growth and increased traffic. It should possess a timeless quality, avoiding specific historical periods or trends, ensuring the firehouse remains a lasting source of community pride.<h2>Next Steps</h2>The approved budget for art integration ranges from $10,000 to a maximum of $100,000. Artists who receive the packet may visit the site and consult with City staff to inform their creative process. The Site Committee, established under the City’s Community Art &amp; Design Policy, will review proposals, ask questions, and make recommendations. Following the Site Committee’s recommendation, the proposal will go through CAD, the Arts &amp; Humanities Commission, and the City Commission for final approval, amendment, or denial.<h2>Deadline for Requesting Packet</h2>November 15, 2024Contact information:Crystal Hammerschmidt, Art Services Coordinator at Salina Arts &amp; HumanitiesEmail: <a>Crystal.hammerschmidt@salina.org </a>Office: 785-309-5770For more information on public art, maps, or the CAD Committee, please visit the Salina Arts &amp; Humanities website. Additional questions about public art in Salina can be directed to <a>sah@salina.org</a> or by calling 785-309-5770.Salina Arts &amp; Humanities, a department of the City of Salina, has served as an arts advocate and resource partner since 1966. Its programs include the Smoky Hill River Festival, Horizons Grants Program, Smoky Hill Museum, Arts Infusion Program in schools, Community Art &amp; Design, and Creative Connections, all located at 211 W. Iron Avenue in Salina.<h2>History of CAD</h2>Since the establishment of the Arts &amp; Humanities Department in 1966, Salina has been a cultural leader in Kansas. The city’s arts programs and services, offered by both private and public entities, are comparable to those in cities three times its size. On July 17, 2000, the Salina City Commission adopted a resolution establishing a Community Art and Design (CAD) Program. This program allows the city to initiate CAD projects and promotes public art’s benefits to the community. The CAD Committee and related policies guide artists through the design and review process.The CAD Program’s established goals include expanding opportunities for residents and visitors to experience Salina's artistic and cultural heritage, enhancing the design of city infrastructure, contributing to economic development and cultural tourism, fostering public/private partnerships, increasing community identity, and engaging citizens in designing their environments. Additionally, the program aims to evoke thoughtful responses from residents and visitors to Salina’s built environment and to provide information about the CAD Program and its projects.

Capital improvement project art integration call for proposals for Fire Station #4

By EIAN PRACHT Smoky View 4-H

On Oct. 20, the Smoky View 4-H Club started a new 4-H year with its annual club Celebration of Achievements. During this meeting, the club’s leaders took the positions of the younger members to show how each office is done. Each member also held a candle while leaders Christy Isaacson and Kelsey Swisher described the role of each office. 

Club members also attended the Central Kansas District (CKD) Celebration of Achievements in Minneapolis on Nov. 3. Members were recognized for their hard work in the 2023 - 2024 4-H year, with many taking-home pins, plaques, and certificates. Smoky View member Acacia Pracht also earned the Outstanding 4-H Member Award, awarded for her strong involvement in 4-H and in particular the visual arts project. 

Smoky View 4-H club members will meet again on Nov. 17 at the Salemsborg Fellowship Center. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730995075656.jpeg" alt="Smoky View 4-H member Isaac Perez is installed as the club’s new treasurer during the club’s meeting on October 20. Photo Courtesy Smoky View 4-H Club" />
 <figcaption>Smoky View 4-H member Isaac Perez is installed as the club’s new treasurer during the club’s meeting on October 20. Photo Courtesy Smoky View 4-H Club</figcaption>
 </figure>By EIAN PRACHT Smoky View 4-HOn Oct. 20, the Smoky View 4-H Club started a new 4-H year with its annual club Celebration of Achievements. During this meeting, the club’s leaders took the positions of the younger members to show how each office is done. Each member also held a candle while leaders Christy Isaacson and Kelsey Swisher described the role of each office. Club members also attended the Central Kansas District (CKD) Celebration of Achievements in Minneapolis on Nov. 3. Members were recognized for their hard work in the 2023 - 2024 4-H year, with many taking-home pins, plaques, and certificates. Smoky View member Acacia Pracht also earned the Outstanding 4-H Member Award, awarded for her strong involvement in 4-H and in particular the visual arts project. Smoky View 4-H club members will meet again on Nov. 17 at the Salemsborg Fellowship Center.

Smoky View 4-H Club members attend club, district Celebration of Achievements

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Labor is proud to announce the rollout of the Unemployment Insurance Technology Enhancement (UITE) project. The project will modernize the employer and claimant experience and is expected to launch on Nov. 19, 2024.

“Kansans needing access to unemployment benefits have depended on an outdated computer system that wreaked havoc during the Great Recession and later during the pandemic,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “What happened during the pandemic could have largely been avoided had modernization been allowed to proceed. I made a commitment to Kansans to finish the job this time, and that is exactly what Kansas Labor Secretary Amber Shultz and the entire team at the agency have done. Their efforts to bring the state into the 21st century will ensure that we are prepared should we face similar economic downturns in the future.”

“This modernization initiative marks a significant milestone in our commitment to providing seamless services to Kansas employers and our workforce,” Kansas Labor Secretary Amber Shultz said. “Working alongside Tata Consultancy Services, the Kansas Unemployment Insurance system has achieved the most rapid deployment of any state. We are grateful to our partners who tirelessly advocated for this initiative and provided invaluable guidance throughout this journey."

The new system will deliver an improved unemployment insurance experience by:

• Streamlining operations through improved workflow efficiency and adaptability, data management, and collaborations with other agencies;

• Enhancing user experience through adoption of advanced customer relationship management&nbsp;systems and personalized communication channels, more self-service options, and improved mobile-friendly access for claimants; and

• Upgrading data security and compliance with enhanced cybersecurity measures to safeguard&nbsp;data and ensure regulatory compliance.

“It's thrilling to witness all the hard work on this project coming together,” said Sen. Renee Erickson,&nbsp;Chair of Unemployment Compensation Modernization and Improvement Council and Chair of&nbsp;Senate Commerce Committee. “The new system will offer improved security and greater ease of use for both individuals and businesses. I appreciate the diligence of all stakeholders in ensuring a successful implementation for Kansans.”

"Kansas had an urgent need for modernizing our state's Unemployment Compensation Platform,” said&nbsp;Rep. Sean Tarwater, District 27. “The outdated system exacerbated the challenges of COVID-19 and&nbsp;failed our citizens when they needed it most. Through collaborative efforts with stakeholders across Kansas, including the invaluable contributions of Phil Hayes with The Arnold Group, the patience of&nbsp;KDOL's government affairs director, Julie Menghini and Kansas Secretary of Labor, Amber Shultz, who&nbsp;boldly took the helm of the Department of Labor amidst significant challenges, we have crafted robust&nbsp;new statutes and established the Unemployment Modernization Council. Together with these great Kansans, I am proud to be a part of the imminent launch of a new, adaptive platform that will ensure timely support for our citizens in need."

As part of the technology upgrade rollout, the Unemployment Contact Center and&nbsp;<a href="http://getkansasbenefits.gov\">getkansasbenefits.gov</a> site will be unavailable starting Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 5 p.m. and will reopen on Tuesday, Nov. 19 at 8 a.m. Claimants will not be able to file claims during this time frame.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614187542067.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Labor is proud to announce the rollout of the Unemployment Insurance Technology Enhancement (UITE) project. The project will modernize the employer and claimant experience and is expected to launch on Nov. 19, 2024.“Kansans needing access to unemployment benefits have depended on an outdated computer system that wreaked havoc during the Great Recession and later during the pandemic,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “What happened during the pandemic could have largely been avoided had modernization been allowed to proceed. I made a commitment to Kansans to finish the job this time, and that is exactly what Kansas Labor Secretary Amber Shultz and the entire team at the agency have done. Their efforts to bring the state into the 21st century will ensure that we are prepared should we face similar economic downturns in the future.”“This modernization initiative marks a significant milestone in our commitment to providing seamless services to Kansas employers and our workforce,” Kansas Labor Secretary Amber Shultz said. “Working alongside Tata Consultancy Services, the Kansas Unemployment Insurance system has achieved the most rapid deployment of any state. We are grateful to our partners who tirelessly advocated for this initiative and provided invaluable guidance throughout this journey."The new system will deliver an improved unemployment insurance experience by:• Streamlining operations through improved workflow efficiency and adaptability, data management, and collaborations with other agencies;• Enhancing user experience through adoption of advanced customer relationship management&nbsp;systems and personalized communication channels, more self-service options, and improved mobile-friendly access for claimants; and• Upgrading data security and compliance with enhanced cybersecurity measures to safeguard&nbsp;data and ensure regulatory compliance.“It's thrilling to witness all the hard work on this project coming together,” said Sen. Renee Erickson,&nbsp;Chair of Unemployment Compensation Modernization and Improvement Council and Chair of&nbsp;Senate Commerce Committee. “The new system will offer improved security and greater ease of use for both individuals and businesses. I appreciate the diligence of all stakeholders in ensuring a successful implementation for Kansans.”"Kansas had an urgent need for modernizing our state's Unemployment Compensation Platform,” said&nbsp;Rep. Sean Tarwater, District 27. “The outdated system exacerbated the challenges of COVID-19 and&nbsp;failed our citizens when they needed it most. Through collaborative efforts with stakeholders across Kansas, including the invaluable contributions of Phil Hayes with The Arnold Group, the patience of&nbsp;KDOL's government affairs director, Julie Menghini and Kansas Secretary of Labor, Amber Shultz, who&nbsp;boldly took the helm of the Department of Labor amidst significant challenges, we have crafted robust&nbsp;new statutes and established the Unemployment Modernization Council. Together with these great Kansans, I am proud to be a part of the imminent launch of a new, adaptive platform that will ensure timely support for our citizens in need."As part of the technology upgrade rollout, the Unemployment Contact Center and&nbsp;<a href="http://getkansasbenefits.gov\">getkansasbenefits.gov</a> site will be unavailable starting Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 5 p.m. and will reopen on Tuesday, Nov. 19 at 8 a.m. Claimants will not be able to file claims during this time frame.Weekly certification for the benefits week ending Nov. 16 will be available starting Tuesday, Nov. 19, at <a href="http://KansasUI.gov">KansasUI.gov</a>.More information on the UITE project can be found at <a href="http://dol.ks.gov/UITEResources">dol.ks.gov/UITEResources</a>.

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