SALINA —Drivers across Kansas continue to ignore the posted speed limit.

Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Ben Gardner asked on his social media account, "How do you rack up a total fine of $453 in a matter of seconds?"

"By driving 80 mph in a 40 mph zone on South Ohio Street within the city limits of Salina. Speeds like this put everyone on the road—including the driver—at serious risk."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729102551981.png" alt="Photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINA —Drivers across Kansas continue to ignore the posted speed limit.Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Ben Gardner asked on his social media account, "How do you rack up a total fine of $453 in a matter of seconds?""By driving 80 mph in a 40 mph zone on South Ohio Street within the city limits of Salina. Speeds like this put everyone on the road—including the driver—at serious risk."

KHP: Driver fined $453 for traveling 80mph on S. Ohio Street

By CADE RENSINK K-State Research and Extension

On October 12 and 13, the Central Kansas Extension District (CKD) 4-H Shooting Sports Team went to Sedgwick for the Kansas 4-H State Shotgun Match. To participate at the state level, youth must have shot an eligible score at one of several regional qualifiers earlier in the year.

In total, there were 205 4-H’ers from 27 different Extension units. Those making the trip from CKD were Bailey Mader from Bennington, Coy Malmberg, Callan Rensink, Colyer Rensink, Layton Christensen, Mayson Nagel, A.J. Noon, and Charlie Klein of Minneapolis, J.J. Riedel of Salina, and Gauge and Lane Fritz from Gypsum.

All CKD members showcased their skills in Trap Shooting. Klein, Malmberg and the two Fritzes also qualified in Skeet with Christensen joining them in Open Sporting Clays. Colyer, Layton, J.J., and Gauge shot in the Junior Division (62 youth) and all others entered in the Senior Division (143 youth).

After a long two days of competition, CKD had a good showing in all three disciplines. In the Junior Division, Gauge Fritz was 15th in Skeet, 20th in Sporting Clays and placed 16th Overall with a combined score of 219/300. For the Seniors, Lane Fritz took 2nd in Trap with a score of 98, 9th in Skeet, 2nd in Sporting Clays with an 89, and was 3rd High Overall with an aggregate score of 276/300. Callan Rensink and Coy Malmberg tied for 20th in Trap with a score of 94.

Now that the fall season is complete, CKD 4-H members will spend the winter practicing BB gun and air rifle in hopes of qualifying for state in April. Moreover, they will be looking to three-peat as a Kansas team at the 2025 Daisy National BB Gun Championship Match in Rogers, Arkansas next summer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729092230495.jpeg" alt="Central Kansas District 4-H members competing at the 2024 Kansas 4-H State Shotgun Match near Sedgwick were: (Photo A L-R) Gauge Fritz, J.J. Riedel, lane Fritz, Charlie Klein, and Coy Malmberg" />
 <figcaption>Central Kansas District 4-H members competing at the 2024 Kansas 4-H State Shotgun Match near Sedgwick were: (Photo A L-R) Gauge Fritz, J.J. Riedel, lane Fritz, Charlie Klein, and Coy Malmberg</figcaption>
 </figure>By CADE RENSINK K-State Research and ExtensionOn October 12 and 13, the Central Kansas Extension District (CKD) 4-H Shooting Sports Team went to Sedgwick for the Kansas 4-H State Shotgun Match. To participate at the state level, youth must have shot an eligible score at one of several regional qualifiers earlier in the year.In total, there were 205 4-H’ers from 27 different Extension units. Those making the trip from CKD were Bailey Mader from Bennington, Coy Malmberg, Callan Rensink, Colyer Rensink, Layton Christensen, Mayson Nagel, A.J. Noon, and Charlie Klein of Minneapolis, J.J. Riedel of Salina, and Gauge and Lane Fritz from Gypsum.All CKD members showcased their skills in Trap Shooting. Klein, Malmberg and the two Fritzes also qualified in Skeet with Christensen joining them in Open Sporting Clays. Colyer, Layton, J.J., and Gauge shot in the Junior Division (62 youth) and all others entered in the Senior Division (143 youth).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729092252866.jpeg" alt="Bailey Mader, Layton Christensen, A.J. Noon, Callan Rensink, Colyer Rensink, and Mayson Nagel" />
 <figcaption>Bailey Mader, Layton Christensen, A.J. Noon, Callan Rensink, Colyer Rensink, and Mayson Nagel</figcaption>
 </figure>After a long two days of competition, CKD had a good showing in all three disciplines. In the Junior Division, Gauge Fritz was 15th in Skeet, 20th in Sporting Clays and placed 16th Overall with a combined score of 219/300. For the Seniors, Lane Fritz took 2nd in Trap with a score of 98, 9th in Skeet, 2nd in Sporting Clays with an 89, and was 3rd High Overall with an aggregate score of 276/300. Callan Rensink and Coy Malmberg tied for 20th in Trap with a score of 94.Now that the fall season is complete, CKD 4-H members will spend the winter practicing BB gun and air rifle in hopes of qualifying for state in April. Moreover, they will be looking to three-peat as a Kansas team at the 2025 Daisy National BB Gun Championship Match in Rogers, Arkansas next summer.

Local 4-H members compete at state shooting sports match

Wednesday Widespread frost before 9am. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 65. Light south wind increasing to 10 to 15 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 24 mph.

Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 46.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 75. Breezy.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 53. Breezy.

Friday Sunny with a high near 77. Breezy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729093558227.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Wednesday Widespread frost before 9am. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 65. Light south wind increasing to 10 to 15 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 24 mph.Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 46.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 75. Breezy.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 53. Breezy.Friday Sunny with a high near 77. Breezy.

NWS end of the week forecast

By NATE KING Salina Post

The Salina City Commission postponed a demolition vote for the vacant 192-room Ambassador Hotel at 1616 W. Crawford St., leaving its future uncertain after a public hearing on Oct. 14.&nbsp;

The hotel, which opened in the 1980s as the Holiday Inn Holidome and later became a Ramada before rebranding as the Ambassador, has faced years of neglect and safety violations. In July, city commissioners designated the building as a dangerous structure after a review by Dangerous Structure Specialist Sean Furbeck. This designation followed a history of violations, including unsecured entry points, structural deterioration, illegal fires, and use by vagrants. The city gave property owner Joshua Joseph two options: repair the building or proceed with its demolition.

During the Oct. 14 city commission meeting, Joseph presented a new plan, outlining a proposal to divide the existing structure into two separate buildings and complete a cleanup and partial demolition within three months, with the entire project to be finished within a year. The plans also included indoor pickleball courts between the indoor storage facilities. 

Joseph claimed to have secured $3 million in financing from Frontier State Bank in Oklahoma City, backed by a $1 million certificate of deposit.

Despite the proposal, commissioners voiced concerns. Commissioner Greg Lenkiewicz a previous presentation from Joseph in 2017, describing it as disorganized and last-minute.

READ MORE:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d11440d8-1d3d-457f-bb9d-0340bca41660">&nbsp;Salina City Commission labels Ambassador Hotel as dangerous structure — next steps</a>

"You presented it in a manner where it wasn't in the format, it wasn't part of the agenda, it was a part of the public comment,"&nbsp; Lenkiewicz said. "It seamed like seat of the pants planning, or last minute action. It is in our best interests to explore what you have to offer, but in my opinion it's going to need to have some stipulations with it."&nbsp;

Commissioner Trent Davis questioned Joseph's experience with similar projects, to which Joseph responded by highlighting his background in hotel construction in Oklahoma and Dallas.

Commissioner Hoppock cited past issues with Joseph’s projects in Hays and Hutchinson, questioning his commitment to the Salina community.

"I guess today may be your lucky day that you are going to get a chance to do what you say you are going to do," Hoppock said. "You are on a short leash, we aren't going to put up with a lot of 'well buts.'"

The commission voted 5-0 to delay the decision until Oct. 28, 2024, giving Joseph until 5 p.m. Tuesday to provide a satisfactory loan commitment letter.

On Wednesday morning Salina Mayor Bill Longbine informed Salina Post that Andrea Properties had failed to provide sufficient financial assurances for the project.

Now, the Ambassador Hotel faces the prospect of demolition, either by Joseph or the City of Salina, with initial estimates placing the cost at $1.7 million. The city commission will revisit the situation in two weeks, when they may again consider demolishing the structure.

On Wednesday afternoon City Manage Mike Schrage said Mr. Joseph’s lender provided city staff a letter confirming that the bank has provided DFW Joseph Investments LLC a $1 million revolving line of credit and acknowledged they were “working on a second request" for Mr. Joseph in the amount of a $2 million loan.

Longbine said this did not meet the necessary threshold set by commissioners during the Monday meeting.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712589417521.jpeg" alt="The Ambassador Hotel sits empty on West Crawford Street close to Interstate 135, on Monday, April 8, 2024. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The Ambassador Hotel sits empty on West Crawford Street close to Interstate 135, on Monday, April 8, 2024. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By NATE KING Salina PostThe Salina City Commission postponed a demolition vote for the vacant 192-room Ambassador Hotel at 1616 W. Crawford St., leaving its future uncertain after a public hearing on Oct. 14.&nbsp;The hotel, which opened in the 1980s as the Holiday Inn Holidome and later became a Ramada before rebranding as the Ambassador, has faced years of neglect and safety violations. In July, city commissioners designated the building as a dangerous structure after a review by Dangerous Structure Specialist Sean Furbeck. This designation followed a history of violations, including unsecured entry points, structural deterioration, illegal fires, and use by vagrants. The city gave property owner Joshua Joseph two options: repair the building or proceed with its demolition.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721764688850.png" alt="Ambassador Hotel interior" />
 <figcaption>Ambassador Hotel interior</figcaption>
 </figure>During the Oct. 14 city commission meeting, Joseph presented a new plan, outlining a proposal to divide the existing structure into two separate buildings and complete a cleanup and partial demolition within three months, with the entire project to be finished within a year. The plans also included indoor pickleball courts between the indoor storage facilities. Joseph claimed to have secured $3 million in financing from Frontier State Bank in Oklahoma City, backed by a $1 million certificate of deposit.Despite the proposal, commissioners voiced concerns. Commissioner Greg Lenkiewicz a previous presentation from Joseph in 2017, describing it as disorganized and last-minute.READ MORE:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d11440d8-1d3d-457f-bb9d-0340bca41660">&nbsp;Salina City Commission labels Ambassador Hotel as dangerous structure — next steps</a>"You presented it in a manner where it wasn't in the format, it wasn't part of the agenda, it was a part of the public comment,"&nbsp; Lenkiewicz said. "It seamed like seat of the pants planning, or last minute action. It is in our best interests to explore what you have to offer, but in my opinion it's going to need to have some stipulations with it."&nbsp;Commissioner Trent Davis questioned Joseph's experience with similar projects, to which Joseph responded by highlighting his background in hotel construction in Oklahoma and Dallas.Commissioner Hoppock cited past issues with Joseph’s projects in Hays and Hutchinson, questioning his commitment to the Salina community."I guess today may be your lucky day that you are going to get a chance to do what you say you are going to do," Hoppock said. "You are on a short leash, we aren't going to put up with a lot of 'well buts.'"The commission voted 5-0 to delay the decision until Oct. 28, 2024, giving Joseph until 5 p.m. Tuesday to provide a satisfactory loan commitment letter.On Wednesday morning Salina Mayor Bill Longbine informed Salina Post that Andrea Properties had failed to provide sufficient financial assurances for the project.Now, the Ambassador Hotel faces the prospect of demolition, either by Joseph or the City of Salina, with initial estimates placing the cost at $1.7 million. The city commission will revisit the situation in two weeks, when they may again consider demolishing the structure.On Wednesday afternoon City Manage Mike Schrage said Mr. Joseph’s lender provided city staff a letter confirming that the bank has provided DFW Joseph Investments LLC a $1 million revolving line of credit and acknowledged they were “working on a second request" for Mr. Joseph in the amount of a $2 million loan.Longbine said this did not meet the necessary threshold set by commissioners during the Monday meeting.&nbsp;

Ambassador Hotel's future remains uncertain as Salina City Commission delays demolition decision

The Salina Community, in partnership with the American Red Cross, is hosting a crucial blood drive aimed at addressing an urgent need for blood donations. This life-saving event will take place at Sunrise Presbyterian Church in the Multi-Purpose Room, located at 825 E. Beloit, Salina, KS, 67401.

-Wednesday, Oct 23, 2024: 12:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, Oct 24, 2024: 12:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

- **Friday, Oct 25, 2024**: 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Each donor will be treated to delicious ham salad sandwiches and chips, and all donors will receive a $10 Amazon E-card via email after their donation. 

Every 2 to 3 seconds, someone in the nation needs a unit of blood, highlighting the vital role volunteer donors play in ensuring blood is available for patients.

To schedule an appointment, individuals can visit <a href="http://www.redcrossblood.org">www.redcrossblood.org</a> or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.

For those who prefer mobile access, the Red Cross Blood Donor App enables users to schedule appointments, view their blood type and donation results, and track their donations. The app is available for download on the App Store and Google Play, or by texting BLOODAPP to 90999.

Join us in our lifesaving mission next week in Salina — your donation can make a difference.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687900222536.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Salina Community, in partnership with the American Red Cross, is hosting a crucial blood drive aimed at addressing an urgent need for blood donations. This life-saving event will take place at Sunrise Presbyterian Church in the Multi-Purpose Room, located at 825 E. Beloit, Salina, KS, 67401.Blood Drive Schedule:-Wednesday, Oct 23, 2024: 12:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.Thursday, Oct 24, 2024: 12:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.- **Friday, Oct 25, 2024**: 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.Each donor will be treated to delicious ham salad sandwiches and chips, and all donors will receive a $10 Amazon E-card via email after their donation. Every 2 to 3 seconds, someone in the nation needs a unit of blood, highlighting the vital role volunteer donors play in ensuring blood is available for patients.To schedule an appointment, individuals can visit <a href="http://www.redcrossblood.org">www.redcrossblood.org</a> or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. For those who prefer mobile access, the Red Cross Blood Donor App enables users to schedule appointments, view their blood type and donation results, and track their donations. The app is available for download on the App Store and Google Play, or by texting BLOODAPP to 90999.Join us in our lifesaving mission next week in Salina — your donation can make a difference.&nbsp;

Salina community hosts urgent Red Cross blood drive Oct. 23-25

The final totals are in from the 9th annual Fe for a Cure Race/Walk, held September 21 in support of patients undergoing treatment at the Tammy Walker Cancer Center, and new records have been achieved for fundraising and participation.

Through registrations, memorial/honorary ribbon sign sales and donations, $26,439 was raised this year. An anonymous donor also contributed an additional $30,000 towards the cause, bringing total fundraising to $56,439.

Thanks to the support of the event’s sponsors, 100% of registrations and donations to Fe for a Cure are directed to enhance patient programs and services at the Tammy Walker Cancer Center.

With 834 registered runners, walkers and Couch Potatoes, and 146 volunteers, new records for participation were set. Participants came from 50 Kansas communities and four states.

“We’re thrilled to see this event continue to grow, and we look forward to celebrating our 10th Anniversary for Fe for a Cure next year,” said Marla McElderry, executive director of the Salina Regional Health Foundation.

A Corporate Challenge is held in conjunction with Fe for a Cure that recognizes area Small, Mid-sized and Large businesses with the most participants. Thirty-nine different businesses participated in the Corporate Challenge this year. Winners were Jim’s Formal Wear, Small Business, 18 participants; Blue Beacon, Mid-sized Business, 26 participants; and Great Plains Manufacturing, Large Business, 79 participants.

You can find a link to individual results for this year’s race at <a href="http://www.feforacure.com">www.feforacure.com</a> along with finish line photos of participants. Watch for announcements about next year’s race by following Fe for a Cure on Facebook.

Fe for a Cure is presented by the Salina Regional Health Foundation, Meridian Media and North Salina Community Development.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729085085270.jpeg" alt="The start of the 9th Annual Fe for a Cure Race/Walk held on Sept. 21 in support of cancer patients. Photo Courtesy Fe for a Cure.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The start of the 9th Annual Fe for a Cure Race/Walk held on Sept. 21 in support of cancer patients. Photo Courtesy Fe for a Cure.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe final totals are in from the 9th annual Fe for a Cure Race/Walk, held September 21 in support of patients undergoing treatment at the Tammy Walker Cancer Center, and new records have been achieved for fundraising and participation.Through registrations, memorial/honorary ribbon sign sales and donations, $26,439 was raised this year. An anonymous donor also contributed an additional $30,000 towards the cause, bringing total fundraising to $56,439.Thanks to the support of the event’s sponsors, 100% of registrations and donations to Fe for a Cure are directed to enhance patient programs and services at the Tammy Walker Cancer Center.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729085056616.jpeg" alt="Fe for a Cure volunteers blow bubbles at race participants as they make their way to the finish line.&nbsp;Photo Courtesy Fe for a Cure.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Fe for a Cure volunteers blow bubbles at race participants as they make their way to the finish line.&nbsp;Photo Courtesy Fe for a Cure.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>With 834 registered runners, walkers and Couch Potatoes, and 146 volunteers, new records for participation were set. Participants came from 50 Kansas communities and four states.“We’re thrilled to see this event continue to grow, and we look forward to celebrating our 10th Anniversary for Fe for a Cure next year,” said Marla McElderry, executive director of the Salina Regional Health Foundation.A Corporate Challenge is held in conjunction with Fe for a Cure that recognizes area Small, Mid-sized and Large businesses with the most participants. Thirty-nine different businesses participated in the Corporate Challenge this year. Winners were Jim’s Formal Wear, Small Business, 18 participants; Blue Beacon, Mid-sized Business, 26 participants; and Great Plains Manufacturing, Large Business, 79 participants.You can find a link to individual results for this year’s race at <a href="http://www.feforacure.com">www.feforacure.com</a> along with finish line photos of participants. Watch for announcements about next year’s race by following Fe for a Cure on Facebook.Fe for a Cure is presented by the Salina Regional Health Foundation, Meridian Media and North Salina Community Development.

Fe for a Cure Race/Walk breaks records for fundraising, participation

Submitted Salina Downtown Inc. and First Bank Kansas are hosting a free Downtown Movie Night this Saturday, October 19, at the City Lights Stage, 149 N. Santa Fe Ave. The event will feature a screening of the Halloween favorite “Hocus Pocus” beginning at dark.

Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets for the outdoor viewing experience.

Local food vendor Tacos el Cora will offer Mexican cuisine starting at 5 p.m. Popcorn and candy will also be available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729082674115.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted Salina Downtown Inc. and First Bank Kansas are hosting a free Downtown Movie Night this Saturday, October 19, at the City Lights Stage, 149 N. Santa Fe Ave. The event will feature a screening of the Halloween favorite “Hocus Pocus” beginning at dark. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets for the outdoor viewing experience.Local food vendor Tacos el Cora will offer Mexican cuisine starting at 5 p.m. Popcorn and candy will also be available.

Salina Downtown, First Bank Kansas hosting free movie night in Salina this Saturday

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;&nbsp;Mickey, Matthew Charles

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Alvarez, Jami Marie

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Failure to Appear

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Carter, Colt Jameson

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Driving While Suspended and No Proof Of Insurance

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Ehster, Eric Scott

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

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Gamble, Emmanuel Messiah

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

&nbsp;NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Kincannon, Madison Kurt

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Failure to appear; Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human bodyPoss of marijuana; 2 or more prior convictions

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Martinez, Amanda Nicole

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/2024/10/1729081828022.png" alt="Mickey, Matthew Charles" />
 <figcaption>Mickey, Matthew Charles</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Mickey, Matthew CharlesREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729081364328.png" alt="Alvarez, Jami Marie" />
 <figcaption>Alvarez, Jami Marie</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Alvarez, Jami MarieREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729081498159.png" alt="Bomar, Suzanne Marie" />
 <figcaption>Bomar, Suzanne Marie</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Bomar, Suzanne MarieREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp; Failure to Appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729081550226.png" alt="Carter, Colt Jameson" />
 <figcaption>Carter, Colt Jameson</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Carter, Colt JamesonREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Driving While Suspended and No Proof Of Insurance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729081595261.png" alt="Ehster, Eric Scott" />
 <figcaption>Ehster, Eric Scott</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Ehster, Eric ScottREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729081637274.png" alt="Gamble, Emmanuel Messiah" />
 <figcaption>Gamble, Emmanuel Messiah</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Gamble, Emmanuel MessiahREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729081685968.png" alt="Kincannon, Madison Kurt" />
 <figcaption>Kincannon, Madison Kurt</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Kincannon, Madison KurtREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Failure to appear; Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human bodyPoss of marijuana; 2 or more prior convictions<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729081746106.png" alt="Martinez, Amanda Nicole" />
 <figcaption>Martinez, Amanda Nicole</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Martinez, Amanda NicoleREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation

Saline County Jail Bookings, Oct. 16

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Some of Kansas’ largest cities are struggling to gain full returns on tax increment financing districts meant to help bolster development activity and property values, a recent state&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslpa.gov/audit-report-library/estimating-the-economic-impacts-of-tax-increment-financing-districts/" target="_blank">audit</a>&nbsp;found.

<a href="https://www.kansascommerce.gov/program/taxes-and-financing/tif/" target="_blank">TIF districts</a>, as they are called, are intended to fund real estate projects that otherwise wouldn’t exist. The idea is that the development will increase property values in the designated district, resulting in higher property tax collections that are used to pay off the bonds that financed the project.

State auditors surveyed six TIF districts from Kansas’ largest cities and found that half did not recover their costs in a timely manner. Most experienced construction delays and recorded increased crime rates after development finished. At least one city calculated its TIF collection incorrectly.

Auditors presented their findings to legislators at an Oct. 7 committee hearing. Most of the districts surveyed saw benefits, but whether those benefits were worth the investment is subjective, the audit found.

Two cities, Wichita and Topeka, aren’t likely to recover the costs of three projects through TIF revenue by the end of the districts’ lifetimes.

In Topeka, the general fund is covering an estimated 40% of the city costs associated with the College Hill TIF project, the audit found. In Wichita, two projects have experienced construction delays and the projects haven’t generated as much TIF revenue as anticipated. One of those projects, the Douglas and Hillside TIF district, was $1.8 million behind on debt service payments as of 2022, but the city said the debt will be fully financed by 2027, according to the audit. The other project, the Ken Mar TIF district, was $420,000 behind on payments as of 2022 and developers have been tied up in litigation with the city.

“If a city cannot pay off debt obligations on time, then its overall cost from the TIF project may increase as it accrues additional interest,” according to the audit. “The use of other city funds to help cover shortfalls may leave less funding for other purposes.”

Lawmakers expressed frustrations with the lack of comprehensive statewide data measuring the success of economic initiatives and said they’d like to see the Kansas Department of Commerce take up the task to enhance transparency. State law doesn’t currently have any data collection or goal requirements for TIF districts, the audit found.

Sen. Mike Thompson, a Republican who represents parts of Johnson and Wyandotte counties, said he’s in favor of a database that includes a measurement of the burden TIF districts impose on taxpayers to help in local government decision-making.

“It would be nice if we asked the commerce department to include this so when we’re looking at our various communities it becomes much easier for our budget people to see what kind of burden we’re putting on the taxpayers,” Thompson said.

Stan Longhofer, a Wichita State University professor and finance director for the&nbsp;<a href="https://realestate.wichita.edu/" target="_blank">WSU Center for Real Estate</a>, said TIF districts work well when a locale, a neighborhood or a piece of property is in decline or on the verge of decline.

When property values in an area are stagnated or flat, and a developer can’t make a project viable, TIF fills the gaps. Longhofer believes redevelopment projects are the most appropriate contenders for TIF districts, but redevelopment isn’t a requirement under Kansas’ TIF statute.

“If it’s a green field development, it shouldn’t be a TIF,” he said.

The nature of TIF districts and their “but for” standard, which refers to the idea that a development wouldn’t occur but for incentives, made it difficult for auditors to gauge the full success of the districts surveyed. It’s difficult to know for certain whether property values surrounding a TIF district increased because of the district or because of other factors, Longhofer said.

“It relies almost entirely on what-ifs,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729002086557.jpeg" alt="Sen. Mike Thompson, a Shawnee Republican, wants the Kansas Department of Commerce to track the success of economic initiatives like tax increment financing districts to evaluate the full burden on taxpayers. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Mike Thompson, a Shawnee Republican, wants the Kansas Department of Commerce to track the success of economic initiatives like tax increment financing districts to evaluate the full burden on taxpayers. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Some of Kansas’ largest cities are struggling to gain full returns on tax increment financing districts meant to help bolster development activity and property values, a recent state&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslpa.gov/audit-report-library/estimating-the-economic-impacts-of-tax-increment-financing-districts/" target="_blank">audit</a>&nbsp;found.<a href="https://www.kansascommerce.gov/program/taxes-and-financing/tif/" target="_blank">TIF districts</a>, as they are called, are intended to fund real estate projects that otherwise wouldn’t exist. The idea is that the development will increase property values in the designated district, resulting in higher property tax collections that are used to pay off the bonds that financed the project.State auditors surveyed six TIF districts from Kansas’ largest cities and found that half did not recover their costs in a timely manner. Most experienced construction delays and recorded increased crime rates after development finished. At least one city calculated its TIF collection incorrectly.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1934986616&color=ff5500"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/kansas-reflector-podcast" title="Reflector Podcast" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Reflector Podcast</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/kansas-reflector-podcast/2024-10-14-podcast" title="Kansas legislators question effectiveness of TIF districts" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Kansas legislators question effectiveness of TIF districts</a></div></div>Auditors presented their findings to legislators at an Oct. 7 committee hearing. Most of the districts surveyed saw benefits, but whether those benefits were worth the investment is subjective, the audit found.Two cities, Wichita and Topeka, aren’t likely to recover the costs of three projects through TIF revenue by the end of the districts’ lifetimes.In Topeka, the general fund is covering an estimated 40% of the city costs associated with the College Hill TIF project, the audit found. In Wichita, two projects have experienced construction delays and the projects haven’t generated as much TIF revenue as anticipated. One of those projects, the Douglas and Hillside TIF district, was $1.8 million behind on debt service payments as of 2022, but the city said the debt will be fully financed by 2027, according to the audit. The other project, the Ken Mar TIF district, was $420,000 behind on payments as of 2022 and developers have been tied up in litigation with the city.“If a city cannot pay off debt obligations on time, then its overall cost from the TIF project may increase as it accrues additional interest,” according to the audit. “The use of other city funds to help cover shortfalls may leave less funding for other purposes.”Lawmakers expressed frustrations with the lack of comprehensive statewide data measuring the success of economic initiatives and said they’d like to see the Kansas Department of Commerce take up the task to enhance transparency. State law doesn’t currently have any data collection or goal requirements for TIF districts, the audit found.Sen. Mike Thompson, a Republican who represents parts of Johnson and Wyandotte counties, said he’s in favor of a database that includes a measurement of the burden TIF districts impose on taxpayers to help in local government decision-making.“It would be nice if we asked the commerce department to include this so when we’re looking at our various communities it becomes much easier for our budget people to see what kind of burden we’re putting on the taxpayers,” Thompson said.Stan Longhofer, a Wichita State University professor and finance director for the&nbsp;<a href="https://realestate.wichita.edu/" target="_blank">WSU Center for Real Estate</a>, said TIF districts work well when a locale, a neighborhood or a piece of property is in decline or on the verge of decline.When property values in an area are stagnated or flat, and a developer can’t make a project viable, TIF fills the gaps. Longhofer believes redevelopment projects are the most appropriate contenders for TIF districts, but redevelopment isn’t a requirement under Kansas’ TIF statute.“If it’s a green field development, it shouldn’t be a TIF,” he said.The nature of TIF districts and their “but for” standard, which refers to the idea that a development wouldn’t occur but for incentives, made it difficult for auditors to gauge the full success of the districts surveyed. It’s difficult to know for certain whether property values surrounding a TIF district increased because of the district or because of other factors, Longhofer said.“It relies almost entirely on what-ifs,” he said.

Audit of Kansas TIF districts reveals delays in returns, increased crime rates

By NATE KING Salina Post

Multiple emergency agencies, including the Saline County Sheriff's Mounted Patrol and Rescue Squad, came together at the Ottawa County State Lake on Sunday for a large-scale training exercise simulating a domestic violence shooting. 

The exercise highlighted the critical need for swift cross-county communication in emergencies. The scenario tested the patrol volunteers under high-pressure conditions, ensuring they are prepared to respond effectively when a real crisis, or multiple events occur at once.

The Ottawa County Sheriff's Office, Ottawa County Fire District #4, Minneapolis EMS, Saline County Sheriff's Mounted Patrol and Rescue Squad, and a game warden from the Kansas Department of Wildlife all participated in the exercise.

Bennington Fire Chief Brian Breese was the first fire/EMS to arrive at the simulated scene and immediately took on the role of the incident commander. Ryan Murphy, a volunteer with Saline County Sheriff Mounted Patrol and Rescue Team, informed the press about the severity of the scenario and how response and search teams were being set out. 

"The scenario was a domestic violence shooting out here at the lake. We saw one woman who was lying down. There was one deceased person, and then just right behind you, there was another gunshot victim to her leg," Murphy said.

EMS teams quickly assessed the gunshot victim's wounds and applied a tourniquet to her leg. EMS established a triage site, and two search boats were prepared to launch. 

"There's an eight-year-old kid that's missing and possibly other victims that they haven't found that," Murphy said. "It could have happened because they heard the gunshots and took off running, maybe a ricochet round."

The Saline County Mounted Patrol deployed its "swift water" boat and began patrolling the shoreline looking for victims, including the missing boy.

"The swift water boat has a 30 horsepower motor on the back, but it's a jet drive, so it's the equivalent of a 40 horsepower," Murphy said. "We can actually take that into white water conditions. The swift watercraft is a rigid inflatable boat with an aluminum bottom."

First responders used the swift watercraft to transport a vital team member from one side of the lake to the other — Leroy, the bloodhound. Leroy is a scent-specific trailing dog, which means he is trained to follow the scent of a specific person and ignore all other distractions. Leroy was able to find the missing boy.

"They are to ignore everything else and follow the right person. So today, they went through a crowd and went right to the right kid. That's his job," Waddle said. "He rode back on the boat just as an opportunity for him to experience being on the boat because that's nothing he's ever done until tonight."

Another four-legged team member on the job for the training was Mac. 

"Mac is a live find, wide area search dog," Waddle said. "He works off-leash, and we deploy him off the boat, and he goes and runs wild and finds anybody that's alive and sits there and barks." 

As first responders continued to look for other victims, Murphy informed members of the press that the suspect in the scenario was in custody. 

"I heard on the radio the suspect has been taken into custody, and they actually, because of the struggle that happened, they have canine bites on one leg, and then they actually have tasered arms in their back that EMS will have to take care of," Murphy said. 

Throughout the scenario, Murphy held a deck of cards with written incidents and situations that would trigger certain events within the simulation. One of the cards triggered an incident that left one of the EMS ambulances with a flat tire and unable to move.

"We try to make the scenarios real world and a lot bigger than what people are used to," Murphy said. "You want to utilize all aspects. The Fire Department just showed up. They're going to help with searching for more victims. Both EMS agencies are on scene, and they are treating the wounded, and then the mounted patrol is here, and they're launching their boat to do a shoreline search to see if they can find any victims that might be on the shore or they jumped in the water."

While deputies and emergency responders worked on land, Saline County Mounted Patrol divers took to the water in search of a discarded firearm. Luckily, mounted patrol dive team member Preston Crawford located the pistol in the lake's shallows. He quickly placed it in a sealed bag under the custody of the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office.

Also included in the exercise was a simulated car accident with vehicle passengers who were simulated relatives of those involved in the scenario's domestic incident.

"They were coming to check on their friends and family involved in the other part of this scenario, and the stress of this situation caused one of the ladies in the vehicle, who is simulated as 37 weeks pregnant, to go into labor," Murphy said. 

Using the jaws of life, firefighters broke open the door, allowing the passengers to escape, and EMS took the pregnant woman to the hospital.

Bill Cooke, commander of the Saline County Sheriff's Mounted Patrol Rescue Squad, was proud of his team's response, energy, and communication during the scenario. 

 "We have a dive team, so if necessary, we can go underwater to find evidence and bodies, if need be," Cooke said. "Fortunately, here at this lake, the water wasn't real deep. We have an underwater metal detector, so a diver can put that on and go about 100 meters deep if needed. We've looked over at Milford and several streams and rivers around, trying to find evidence."

To Cooke's knowledge, few organizations in Kansas provide dive rescue services to law enforcement and fire departments. 

"I think maybe the fire department in Junction City has added a few divers, but there's just a lot of that here in Kansas, partly because no one really likes to dive in Kansas because it's like chocolate milk," Cooke said. "You can't see anything. So everything we do is by feel. Again, the underwater sonar helps us locate things a little bit easier."

Cooke, who has volunteered with the mounted patrol since 2007, said although no horses were needed for this particular scenario, there are situations where horses are useful.

"If we would have been out in a big field and we were trying to search, we probably would have brought the horses because the elevation on a horse gives us the opportunity to maybe see better than guys walking in the ground," Cooke said.

Cooke said the mounted patrol helps respond to cattle rescues during the winter, especially during incidents like trailer rollovers on icy roads.

"We have the ability, with cattle panels, to go out assist the fire department in cutting open the trailer, and then with our horses, and with the equipment we have, we're able to get the cattle out of the trailer so that they can be taken off to a holding yard somewhere," Cooke said. "Last winter at I-135 and I-70, there was one that rolled over, and we went out and helped recover those cattle."

The Saline County Sheriff's Mounted Patrol operates entirely on a volunteer basis, with some members serving as deputies. The team is divided into two groups: "level ones," who have full law enforcement capabilities, and "level twos," who assist with non-law enforcement tasks. The mounted patrol frequently collaborates with local law enforcement and fire departments, often helping to secure crime scenes or assist in ice rescues.

"We back them up, and it's nice that the agencies work together, just like this today; this the first time we've had the opportunity to be up here. But I mean, if these guys call, we'll be here anytime we can help out," Cooke said. 

The Saline County Sheriff's Mounted Patrol Rescue Squad meets on the second Monday of every month at 1020 West North Street, near the intersection of North and Broadway in Salina. Meetings begin at 7:00 p.m., and anyone interested in learning more or volunteering is welcome to attend.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=saline%20county%20sheriffs%20mounted%20patrol%20and%20rescue%20squad">Find out more at the Saline County Sheriff's Mounted Patrol and Rescue Squad's Facebook page here. </a>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jHTVB7gyiCg?si=CCUh5E_FVDJPVt2C" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>By NATE KING Salina PostMultiple emergency agencies, including the Saline County Sheriff's Mounted Patrol and Rescue Squad, came together at the Ottawa County State Lake on Sunday for a large-scale training exercise simulating a domestic violence shooting. The exercise highlighted the critical need for swift cross-county communication in emergencies. The scenario tested the patrol volunteers under high-pressure conditions, ensuring they are prepared to respond effectively when a real crisis, or multiple events occur at once.The Ottawa County Sheriff's Office, Ottawa County Fire District #4, Minneapolis EMS, Saline County Sheriff's Mounted Patrol and Rescue Squad, and a game warden from the Kansas Department of Wildlife all participated in the exercise.Bennington Fire Chief Brian Breese was the first fire/EMS to arrive at the simulated scene and immediately took on the role of the incident commander. Ryan Murphy, a volunteer with Saline County Sheriff Mounted Patrol and Rescue Team, informed the press about the severity of the scenario and how response and search teams were being set out. "The scenario was a domestic violence shooting out here at the lake. We saw one woman who was lying down. There was one deceased person, and then just right behind you, there was another gunshot victim to her leg," Murphy said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728663785015.jpeg" alt="Ottawa County Fire Rescue teams treat a woman for a simulated gunshot wound during the scenario on Oct. 6 2024 at the Ottawa County State Lake. Photo by NATE KING" />
 <figcaption>Ottawa County Fire Rescue teams treat a woman for a simulated gunshot wound during the scenario on Oct. 6 2024 at the Ottawa County State Lake. Photo by NATE KING</figcaption>
 </figure>EMS teams quickly assessed the gunshot victim's wounds and applied a tourniquet to her leg. EMS established a triage site, and two search boats were prepared to launch. "There's an eight-year-old kid that's missing and possibly other victims that they haven't found that," Murphy said. "It could have happened because they heard the gunshots and took off running, maybe a ricochet round."The Saline County Mounted Patrol deployed its "swift water" boat and began patrolling the shoreline looking for victims, including the missing boy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728663717247.jpeg" alt="Saline County Sheriff's Mounted Patrol and Rescue Squad deploys the swift water boat during the exercise held on Oct. 6.&nbsp;Photo by NATE KING" />
 <figcaption>Saline County Sheriff's Mounted Patrol and Rescue Squad deploys the swift water boat during the exercise held on Oct. 6.&nbsp;Photo by NATE KING</figcaption>
 </figure>"The swift water boat has a 30 horsepower motor on the back, but it's a jet drive, so it's the equivalent of a 40 horsepower," Murphy said. "We can actually take that into white water conditions. The swift watercraft is a rigid inflatable boat with an aluminum bottom."First responders used the swift watercraft to transport a vital team member from one side of the lake to the other — Leroy, the bloodhound. Leroy is a scent-specific trailing dog, which means he is trained to follow the scent of a specific person and ignore all other distractions. Leroy was able to find the missing boy."They are to ignore everything else and follow the right person. So today, they went through a crowd and went right to the right kid. That's his job," Waddle said. "He rode back on the boat just as an opportunity for him to experience being on the boat because that's nothing he's ever done until tonight."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728663958658.jpeg" alt="Leroy exits the swiftwater boat for the first time. Sunday's exercise marked the first time he had been on a boat.&nbsp;Photo by NATE KING" />
 <figcaption>Leroy exits the swiftwater boat for the first time. Sunday's exercise marked the first time he had been on a boat.&nbsp;Photo by NATE KING</figcaption>
 </figure>Another four-legged team member on the job for the training was Mac. "Mac is a live find, wide area search dog," Waddle said. "He works off-leash, and we deploy him off the boat, and he goes and runs wild and finds anybody that's alive and sits there and barks." As first responders continued to look for other victims, Murphy informed members of the press that the suspect in the scenario was in custody. "I heard on the radio the suspect has been taken into custody, and they actually, because of the struggle that happened, they have canine bites on one leg, and then they actually have tasered arms in their back that EMS will have to take care of," Murphy said. Throughout the scenario, Murphy held a deck of cards with written incidents and situations that would trigger certain events within the simulation. One of the cards triggered an incident that left one of the EMS ambulances with a flat tire and unable to move.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728663989896.jpeg" alt="First responders assess the scene at Ottawa County Lake.Photo by NATE KING" />
 <figcaption>First responders assess the scene at Ottawa County Lake.Photo by NATE KING</figcaption>
 </figure>"We try to make the scenarios real world and a lot bigger than what people are used to," Murphy said. "You want to utilize all aspects. The Fire Department just showed up. They're going to help with searching for more victims. Both EMS agencies are on scene, and they are treating the wounded, and then the mounted patrol is here, and they're launching their boat to do a shoreline search to see if they can find any victims that might be on the shore or they jumped in the water."While deputies and emergency responders worked on land, Saline County Mounted Patrol divers took to the water in search of a discarded firearm. Luckily, mounted patrol dive team member Preston Crawford located the pistol in the lake's shallows. He quickly placed it in a sealed bag under the custody of the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728664129491.jpeg" alt="Ottawa County Fire teams place a woman on a stretcher following a simulated vehicle accident with a pregnant woman as a passenger.Photo by NATE KING" />
 <figcaption>Ottawa County Fire teams place a woman on a stretcher following a simulated vehicle accident with a pregnant woman as a passenger.Photo by NATE KING</figcaption>
 </figure>Also included in the exercise was a simulated car accident with vehicle passengers who were simulated relatives of those involved in the scenario's domestic incident."They were coming to check on their friends and family involved in the other part of this scenario, and the stress of this situation caused one of the ladies in the vehicle, who is simulated as 37 weeks pregnant, to go into labor," Murphy said. Using the jaws of life, firefighters broke open the door, allowing the passengers to escape, and EMS took the pregnant woman to the hospital.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728664149327.jpeg" alt="Firefighters use the jaws of life to help free trapped passengers during a training exercise held at Ottawa County Lake on Oct. 6.Photo by NATE KING" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters use the jaws of life to help free trapped passengers during a training exercise held at Ottawa County Lake on Oct. 6.Photo by NATE KING</figcaption>
 </figure>Bill Cooke, commander of the Saline County Sheriff's Mounted Patrol Rescue Squad, was proud of his team's response, energy, and communication during the scenario. "We have a dive team, so if necessary, we can go underwater to find evidence and bodies, if need be," Cooke said. "Fortunately, here at this lake, the water wasn't real deep. We have an underwater metal detector, so a diver can put that on and go about 100 meters deep if needed. We've looked over at Milford and several streams and rivers around, trying to find evidence."To Cooke's knowledge, few organizations in Kansas provide dive rescue services to law enforcement and fire departments. "I think maybe the fire department in Junction City has added a few divers, but there's just a lot of that here in Kansas, partly because no one really likes to dive in Kansas because it's like chocolate milk," Cooke said. "You can't see anything. So everything we do is by feel. Again, the underwater sonar helps us locate things a little bit easier."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728664494115.jpeg" alt="Bill Cooke, pictured holding a metal detector, scans the ground to detect evidentiary bullet casings and fragments. Photo by NATE KING" />
 <figcaption>Bill Cooke, pictured holding a metal detector, scans the ground to detect evidentiary bullet casings and fragments. Photo by NATE KING</figcaption>
 </figure>Cooke, who has volunteered with the mounted patrol since 2007, said although no horses were needed for this particular scenario, there are situations where horses are useful."If we would have been out in a big field and we were trying to search, we probably would have brought the horses because the elevation on a horse gives us the opportunity to maybe see better than guys walking in the ground," Cooke said.Cooke said the mounted patrol helps respond to cattle rescues during the winter, especially during incidents like trailer rollovers on icy roads."We have the ability, with cattle panels, to go out assist the fire department in cutting open the trailer, and then with our horses, and with the equipment we have, we're able to get the cattle out of the trailer so that they can be taken off to a holding yard somewhere," Cooke said. "Last winter at I-135 and I-70, there was one that rolled over, and we went out and helped recover those cattle."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728664401898.jpeg" alt=" Photo courtesy the Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C Dec. 30 2022 " />
 <figcaption> Photo courtesy the Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C Dec. 30 2022 </figcaption>
 </figure>The Saline County Sheriff's Mounted Patrol operates entirely on a volunteer basis, with some members serving as deputies. The team is divided into two groups: "level ones," who have full law enforcement capabilities, and "level twos," who assist with non-law enforcement tasks. The mounted patrol frequently collaborates with local law enforcement and fire departments, often helping to secure crime scenes or assist in ice rescues."We back them up, and it's nice that the agencies work together, just like this today; this the first time we've had the opportunity to be up here. But I mean, if these guys call, we'll be here anytime we can help out," Cooke said. The Saline County Sheriff's Mounted Patrol Rescue Squad meets on the second Monday of every month at 1020 West North Street, near the intersection of North and Broadway in Salina. Meetings begin at 7:00 p.m., and anyone interested in learning more or volunteering is welcome to attend.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=saline%20county%20sheriffs%20mounted%20patrol%20and%20rescue%20squad">Find out more at the Saline County Sheriff's Mounted Patrol and Rescue Squad's Facebook page here. </a>

 Saline County Mounted Patrol Rescue Squad joins local agencies for large-scale emergency training exercise 

Submitted Celebrating its 20th year, the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce’s Business Hall of Fame is proud to announce three prominent Salina businesspersons scheduled to be inducted into the 2024 class.&nbsp; They are: Moses Stiefel, co-founder of Stiefel Brothers and Company (Pioneer Category, 1858-1945); Paul Mai, founder of Mai Family Companies (Historic Category, 1946-1999); and Frieda Mai Weis, founder of PKM Steel Services (Contemporary Category, 2000-present)

In addition to the Business Hall of Fame Inductees, the Business Hall of Fame Task Force is excited to announce the Spirit of Salina Award recipient. This award, which was created in 2022, was developed to recognize an emerging entrepreneur in Saline County. The entrepreneur selected will represent the “best of the best” in terms of overcoming obstacles, believing in their dreams, taking risks, and persisting as a small business owner.&nbsp;They&nbsp;embody a spirit-the entrepreneurial spirit of Salina – and those that have come before. This year’s recipient will be&nbsp;announced at the induction ceremony.

The induction ceremony will be held Tuesday, November 5, 2024 from noon - 1:30 p.m., at the Salina Country Club. Carl Ice, President and CEO of BNSF Railway, will be the featured speaker.

The Salina Business Hall of Fame was established by the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce in 2005. Its purpose is to recognize and honor Salina business leaders, both past and present, who have made extraordinary contributions to Salina, earned the respect of the local community and called attention to the Free Enterprise system and its value to our country and citizens in shaping Salina’s way of life.

Each inductee will be recognized with a commemorative plaque. In addition, plaques honoring each inductee will be displayed at the Chamber office, 120 W. Ash.&nbsp; “The caliber of those that get inducted into the Business Hall of Fame is so high because these are not just people who have achieved success in business, but also who have made integral contributions to the success of the entire community,” Renee Duxler, president and CEO of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce said, “This 2024 class of inductees is particularly exceptional with the imprint that they’ve left on Salina and we’re thrilled to be able to celebrate them.”

Tickets for the induction ceremony are $35 per person and can be purchased by registering online on the Chamber’s website at www.salinakansas.org, or by calling the Chamber office at 785-827-9310 ext. 124, or by emailing Stephanie Gillig at sgillig@salinakansas.org.

Past inductees include: (Pioneer) Henry David Lee, Alexander Campbell, Oscar Seitz, Winfield Watson, Benjamin Aaron Litowich; William R. Geis, William A. Phillips, Thomas Watson Roach, Charles R. Underwood, Frank Hageman, Heerman H. Sudendorf, Arthur M. Claflin, and August (AJ) Holmquist

(Historic) Ward A. Marshall, William Henry Graves, John J. Vanier, M.J. Kennedy, Milton Morrison, Charles W. Shaver, C. William “Bill” Exline, Murray Wilson, Ralph E. Reitz, S. Dean Evans, Sr., Whitley Austin, Ben Sellers, George L. Frisbie, Verla Nesbitt Joscelyn, Baalis Kyger Smoot, Robert J. Laubengayer, Dan Bolen, Milton Stiefel, Frank Norton, Mabel Shelton, Mel Jarvis, and Quintin Applequist

(Contemporary) Alfred P.G. Schwan, Charlie Walker, Roy Applequist, Lee Young, Paul E. Junk, Jack Vanier, James R. Allen, Richard E. Brown, Karl Stutterheim, Mike Berkley, Charles E. Stevens, Jr., Thomas Pestinger, Sidney A. Reitz, Timothy M. Rogers, Mel and Marge Bergkamp, Stephen Ryan, Larry Triplett, Mike Beatty, and Mark and Julie Miller.

Past Spirit of Salina recipients: Tyler Gallagher/Seraphim Bread (2022), Gustaf Applequist/Fili Creative (2023)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687965982410.jpeg" alt="Salina Area Chamber of Commerce" />
 <figcaption>Salina Area Chamber of Commerce</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted Celebrating its 20th year, the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce’s Business Hall of Fame is proud to announce three prominent Salina businesspersons scheduled to be inducted into the 2024 class.&nbsp; They are: Moses Stiefel, co-founder of Stiefel Brothers and Company (Pioneer Category, 1858-1945); Paul Mai, founder of Mai Family Companies (Historic Category, 1946-1999); and Frieda Mai Weis, founder of PKM Steel Services (Contemporary Category, 2000-present) In addition to the Business Hall of Fame Inductees, the Business Hall of Fame Task Force is excited to announce the Spirit of Salina Award recipient. This award, which was created in 2022, was developed to recognize an emerging entrepreneur in Saline County. The entrepreneur selected will represent the “best of the best” in terms of overcoming obstacles, believing in their dreams, taking risks, and persisting as a small business owner.&nbsp;They&nbsp;embody a spirit-the entrepreneurial spirit of Salina – and those that have come before. This year’s recipient will be&nbsp;announced at the induction ceremony. The induction ceremony will be held Tuesday, November 5, 2024 from noon - 1:30 p.m., at the Salina Country Club. Carl Ice, President and CEO of BNSF Railway, will be the featured speaker.The Salina Business Hall of Fame was established by the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce in 2005. Its purpose is to recognize and honor Salina business leaders, both past and present, who have made extraordinary contributions to Salina, earned the respect of the local community and called attention to the Free Enterprise system and its value to our country and citizens in shaping Salina’s way of life.Each inductee will be recognized with a commemorative plaque. In addition, plaques honoring each inductee will be displayed at the Chamber office, 120 W. Ash.&nbsp; “The caliber of those that get inducted into the Business Hall of Fame is so high because these are not just people who have achieved success in business, but also who have made integral contributions to the success of the entire community,” Renee Duxler, president and CEO of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce said, “This 2024 class of inductees is particularly exceptional with the imprint that they’ve left on Salina and we’re thrilled to be able to celebrate them.”Tickets for the induction ceremony are $35 per person and can be purchased by registering online on the Chamber’s website at www.salinakansas.org, or by calling the Chamber office at 785-827-9310 ext. 124, or by emailing Stephanie Gillig at sgillig@salinakansas.org.Past inductees include: (Pioneer) Henry David Lee, Alexander Campbell, Oscar Seitz, Winfield Watson, Benjamin Aaron Litowich; William R. Geis, William A. Phillips, Thomas Watson Roach, Charles R. Underwood, Frank Hageman, Heerman H. Sudendorf, Arthur M. Claflin, and August (AJ) Holmquist(Historic) Ward A. Marshall, William Henry Graves, John J. Vanier, M.J. Kennedy, Milton Morrison, Charles W. Shaver, C. William “Bill” Exline, Murray Wilson, Ralph E. Reitz, S. Dean Evans, Sr., Whitley Austin, Ben Sellers, George L. Frisbie, Verla Nesbitt Joscelyn, Baalis Kyger Smoot, Robert J. Laubengayer, Dan Bolen, Milton Stiefel, Frank Norton, Mabel Shelton, Mel Jarvis, and Quintin Applequist(Contemporary) Alfred P.G. Schwan, Charlie Walker, Roy Applequist, Lee Young, Paul E. Junk, Jack Vanier, James R. Allen, Richard E. Brown, Karl Stutterheim, Mike Berkley, Charles E. Stevens, Jr., Thomas Pestinger, Sidney A. Reitz, Timothy M. Rogers, Mel and Marge Bergkamp, Stephen Ryan, Larry Triplett, Mike Beatty, and Mark and Julie Miller.Past Spirit of Salina recipients: Tyler Gallagher/Seraphim Bread (2022), Gustaf Applequist/Fili Creative (2023)

Salina Chamber announces local ‘2024 Business Hall of Fame’ inductees

A new list of Salina's Most Wanted will be published by the Salina Post every month on the first Sunday. The Salina's Most Wanted is generated by the Saline County Sheriff's Office. Salina Post will publish the Most Wanted list on the first Sunday of each month and will re-post the list throughout the month.&nbsp;

NAME:Emma Elyse Allen CHARGE(S): Felony possession of opiate / DUI

NAME: Karla Kristina Ames CHARGE(S): Felony FTA theft

NAME: Daniel Lee Burd CHARGE(S): Felony PV possession of opiate / interference with LEO / flee and elude LEO

NAME: Austin Leroy Calp CHARGE(S): Felony burglary X4 / theft X5 / DTP / DWS / no insurance / no vehicle registration

NAME: Lance Jeffery Clemence CHARGE(S): Felony interference with LEO / assault X2

NAME: Eric Jordan Kevin Earnest CHARGE(S): Felony rape / DV battery / trespassing

NAME: Jack Estrada CHARGE(S): Felony FTA interfere with LEO / fail to report accident / no DL / no vehicle registration / other traffic charges

NAME: Deshawn Eugene Gosha CHARGE(S): Felony PV aggravated DV battery

NAME: Richard Preston Harwell CHARGE(S): Felony FTA / possession of opiate / paraphernalia / no drug tax stamp / recruiting criminal street gang membership4

NAME: Josey Collette Heller CHARGE(S): Felony attempt distribution of methamphetamine / paraphernalia / possession of hydrocodone / possession of marijuana / use of cell phone in felony / no drug tax stamp

NAME: William Michael Kelley CHARGE(S): Felony possession of opiate / possession of marijuana

NAME: Kaden Lee Kronmiller CHARGE(S): Felony PV criminal threat / DTP / assault X2 / DV battery / possession of marijuana

NAME: Patricia Faye Linton CHARGE(S): Felony possession of opiate

NAME: Emily Rose Marfise CHARGE(S): Felony FTA possession of opiate

NAME: Tristian Pacey McDowell CHARGE(S): Felony PV possession of opiate X2

NAME: Shane Douglas McMillan CHARGE(S): Felony PV flee and elude / reckless driving / DWS / no insurance / distribute heroin / criminal restraint / speeding

NAME: Eric Lavon Poole CHARGE(S): Felony unlawful computer acts X2 / theft / criminal use of financial card X2

NAME: Andrea Renee Randecker CHARGE(S): Felony burglary / theft / possession of opiate / distribution of heroin / paraphernalia / attempted aggravated burglary / damage to property

NAME:Kail Isaiah Simmons CHARGE(S): Felony PV possession of opiate / interference with LEO / possession of marijuana / DWS / criminal use of weapons

NAME: Tiffany Ann Sowles CHARGE(S):Felony PV interference with LEO

NAME: Sara Jayne Sullivan CHARGE(S): Felony burglary / forgery / theft / damage to property

NAME: Charles Tyrone Wesley CHARGE(S): Felony PV DUI X2 / traffic charges

NAME: Desiree Elizabeth Whitley CHARGE(S): Felony DV battery / possession of opiate X2 / escape from custody

NAME: Jeremy Wayne Yohe CHARGE(S): Felony possession of opiate / flee and elude / paraphernalia / reckless driving / no insurance / no valid DL

A new list of Salina's Most Wanted will be published by the Salina Post every month on the first Sunday. The Salina's Most Wanted is generated by the Saline County Sheriff's Office. Salina Post will publish the Most Wanted list on the first Sunday of each month and will re-post the list throughout the month.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220265939.jpeg" alt="ALLEN EMMA" />
 <figcaption>ALLEN EMMA</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:Emma Elyse Allen CHARGE(S): Felony possession of opiate / DUI<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220291843.jpeg" alt="AMES KARLA" />
 <figcaption>AMES KARLA</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Karla Kristina Ames CHARGE(S): Felony FTA theft<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220321811.jpeg" alt="BURD DANIEL" />
 <figcaption>BURD DANIEL</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Daniel Lee Burd CHARGE(S): Felony PV possession of opiate / interference with LEO / flee and elude LEO<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220343133.jpeg" alt="CALP AUSTIN" />
 <figcaption>CALP AUSTIN</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Austin Leroy Calp CHARGE(S): Felony burglary X4 / theft X5 / DTP / DWS / no insurance / no vehicle registration<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220362817.jpeg" alt="CLEMENCE LANCE" />
 <figcaption>CLEMENCE LANCE</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Lance Jeffery Clemence CHARGE(S): Felony interference with LEO / assault X2<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220398583.jpeg" alt="EARNEST ERIC" />
 <figcaption>EARNEST ERIC</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Eric Jordan Kevin Earnest CHARGE(S): Felony rape / DV battery / trespassing<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220422988.jpeg" alt="ESTRADA JACK" />
 <figcaption>ESTRADA JACK</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Jack Estrada CHARGE(S): Felony FTA interfere with LEO / fail to report accident / no DL / no vehicle registration / other traffic charges<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220448506.jpeg" alt="GOSHA DESHAWN" />
 <figcaption>GOSHA DESHAWN</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Deshawn Eugene Gosha CHARGE(S): Felony PV aggravated DV battery<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220473421.jpeg" alt="HARWELL RICHARD" />
 <figcaption>HARWELL RICHARD</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Richard Preston Harwell CHARGE(S): Felony FTA / possession of opiate / paraphernalia / no drug tax stamp / recruiting criminal street gang membership4<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220498955.jpeg" alt="HELLER JOSEY" />
 <figcaption>HELLER JOSEY</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Josey Collette Heller CHARGE(S): Felony attempt distribution of methamphetamine / paraphernalia / possession of hydrocodone / possession of marijuana / use of cell phone in felony / no drug tax stamp<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220524823.jpeg" alt="KELLEY WILLIAM" />
 <figcaption>KELLEY WILLIAM</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: William Michael Kelley CHARGE(S): Felony possession of opiate / possession of marijuana<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220557127.jpeg" alt="KRONMILLER KADEN" />
 <figcaption>KRONMILLER KADEN</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Kaden Lee Kronmiller CHARGE(S): Felony PV criminal threat / DTP / assault X2 / DV battery / possession of marijuana<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220591694.jpeg" alt="LINTON PATRICIA.JPG" />
 <figcaption>LINTON PATRICIA.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Patricia Faye Linton CHARGE(S): Felony possession of opiate<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220609178.jpeg" alt="MARFISE EMILY.JPG" />
 <figcaption>MARFISE EMILY.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Emily Rose Marfise CHARGE(S): Felony FTA possession of opiate<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220631021.jpeg" alt="MCDOWELL TRISTIAN" />
 <figcaption>MCDOWELL TRISTIAN</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Tristian Pacey McDowell CHARGE(S): Felony PV possession of opiate X2<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220653488.jpeg" alt="MCMILLAN SHANE" />
 <figcaption>MCMILLAN SHANE</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Shane Douglas McMillan CHARGE(S): Felony PV flee and elude / reckless driving / DWS / no insurance / distribute heroin / criminal restraint / speeding<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220677836.jpeg" alt="POOLE ERIC" />
 <figcaption>POOLE ERIC</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Eric Lavon Poole CHARGE(S): Felony unlawful computer acts X2 / theft / criminal use of financial card X2<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220706090.jpeg" alt="RANDECKER ANDREA" />
 <figcaption>RANDECKER ANDREA</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Andrea Renee Randecker CHARGE(S): Felony burglary / theft / possession of opiate / distribution of heroin / paraphernalia / attempted aggravated burglary / damage to property<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220834565.jpeg" alt="SIMMONS KAIL.JPG" />
 <figcaption>SIMMONS KAIL.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:Kail Isaiah Simmons CHARGE(S): Felony PV possession of opiate / interference with LEO / possession of marijuana / DWS / criminal use of weapons<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220851633.jpeg" alt="SOWLES TIFFANY" />
 <figcaption>SOWLES TIFFANY</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Tiffany Ann Sowles CHARGE(S):Felony PV interference with LEO<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220867940.jpeg" alt="SULLIVAN SARA" />
 <figcaption>SULLIVAN SARA</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Sara Jayne Sullivan CHARGE(S): Felony burglary / forgery / theft / damage to property<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717853049133.jpeg" alt="Wesley, Charles Tyrone" />
 <figcaption>Wesley, Charles Tyrone</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Charles Tyrone Wesley CHARGE(S): Felony PV DUI X2 / traffic charges<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220884547.jpeg" alt="WHITLEY DESIREE" />
 <figcaption>WHITLEY DESIREE</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Desiree Elizabeth Whitley CHARGE(S): Felony DV battery / possession of opiate X2 / escape from custody<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728220920334.jpeg" alt="YOHE JEREMY.JPG" />
 <figcaption>YOHE JEREMY.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Jeremy Wayne Yohe CHARGE(S): Felony possession of opiate / flee and elude / paraphernalia / reckless driving / no insurance / no valid DL

Saline County's Most Wanted — October

At its Monday regular meeting on Oct. 14 Salina City Commissioners approved $35,000 in financial support for the <a href="https://www.salinaliberty.com/">Salina Liberty</a>, Salina's only professional indoor football team.

Commissioners voted to allocate the funds from the city's 2025 contingency budget, following a discussion that focussed on both the team’s contributions to the community and its recent league financial and management struggles.

<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=Salina+Eco+devo&amp;oq=Salina+Eco+devo&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIGCAEQRRhAMgoIAhAAGIAEGKIEMgoIAxAAGIAEGKIEMgoIBBAAGIAEGKIEMgoIBRAAGIAEGKIEMgoIBhAAGIAEGKIEMgYIBxBFGEDSAQg0NzMwajBqN6gCALACAA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">Salina Economic Development Organization</a> Executive Director Mitch Robinson addressed the commission, emphasizing the importance of Salina Liberty to the city's quality of life and its ability to attract residents and businesses to the area.

“When people think about relocating to a community, they look at arts, recreation, and sports programs,” Robinson said. “Salina Liberty adds to that by providing professional football, which has been a part of Salina for the past nine years.”

Salina Liberty co-owner <a href="https://www.salinaliberty.com/staff">Dan Mendicina</a>

followed Robinson, explaining the history of the Liberty. After the abrupt departure of the Salina Bombers in 2015, Mendicina and other local business leaders founded the Salina Liberty. Since then, the team has become one of the most successful franchises in indoor football, winning a national championship in 2022.

Last year, the Salina Liberty joined the relaunch of the Arena Football League (AFL) and reached the Final Four, competing against teams from large markets like Orlando and Nashville. However, the league ultimately collapsed, leaving the Salina Liberty team short by $250,000 in expected revenues.

The new league, not affiliated or rebuilt from the AFL, called Arena Football One is led by former Los Angeles Rams and Tennessee Titans head coach Jeff Fisher.&nbsp;

Adam Pelletier, spokesperson for Arena Football One said the Salina Liberty's team's stability and professionalism is seen both on and off the field.&nbsp;

"Salina has been a pillar of stability in the 50-yard game for years," Pelletier said. "It's really exciting to see the community get behind them [Liberty] in a big way like this. The team and the games belong to the communities where they are played. We're here for the fans."

 Additionally, Adam talked about how the league is working to improve stability and consistent scheduling.&nbsp;

"Thanks to the leadership of our Commissioner Jeff Fisher, our CEO and all of our amazing teams, we're going to deliver stability, which means there's going to be a consistent schedule," he said. "It's going to be known. There's not going to be last-minute changes. The schedule is going to be locked in in November, and all those games are going to get played. "

"As we look forward, we've committed to 2025 our head coach is one of the winningest coaches in indoor football-Heron O'Neil. He's in the Hall of Fame for the IFL, and also played professionally in the National Football League," Mendacina said.

"Liberty works hard to build strong relationships with community partners, and it's just a great value add, because you have a team in Salina that was incredibly competitive last year on the field," Pelletier said. "This support is really going to go a long way to showing that the 50-yard game is here to stay in Salina, Kansas."

While commissioners expressed support for the team, some questioned whether the funding should fall under economic development. Commissioner Mike Hoppock suggested viewing the financial support as more of a community investment.

"It just didn't feel right to me for this to fall under the economic development umbrella," Hoppock said. "When we look to bring workers into the community you don't know what it is that makes somebody want to be here. Is it the Art Center? Is it the community theatre or the baseball fields at Bill Burke Park. I do believe it adds something to thecommunity, but I think it maybe sends the wrong message falling under the Economic Development."

Hoppock also said that his business, Land Title Services Inc., is one of the 200+ Salina Liberty sponsors.

Mayor Longbine said he felt the dollar amount was a little too high.&nbsp;

"This really doesn't fall under economic development, and I think I would be okay with this sponsorship, but I&nbsp;think the $35,000 is a little excessive, just coming straight out of the city budget."

Commissioners voted 4-1 in favor of allocating $35,000 from the 2025 contingency fund to support the team, which will begin its next season in March.

Mayor Longbine was the dissenting vote.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704908562390.jpeg" alt="The Salina City Commission" />
 <figcaption>The Salina City Commission</figcaption>
 </figure>By NATE KING Salina PostAt its Monday regular meeting on Oct. 14 Salina City Commissioners approved $35,000 in financial support for the <a href="https://www.salinaliberty.com/">Salina Liberty</a>, Salina's only professional indoor football team. Commissioners voted to allocate the funds from the city's 2025 contingency budget, following a discussion that focussed on both the team’s contributions to the community and its recent league financial and management struggles.<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=Salina+Eco+devo&amp;oq=Salina+Eco+devo&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIGCAEQRRhAMgoIAhAAGIAEGKIEMgoIAxAAGIAEGKIEMgoIBBAAGIAEGKIEMgoIBRAAGIAEGKIEMgoIBhAAGIAEGKIEMgYIBxBFGEDSAQg0NzMwajBqN6gCALACAA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">Salina Economic Development Organization</a> Executive Director Mitch Robinson addressed the commission, emphasizing the importance of Salina Liberty to the city's quality of life and its ability to attract residents and businesses to the area.“When people think about relocating to a community, they look at arts, recreation, and sports programs,” Robinson said. “Salina Liberty adds to that by providing professional football, which has been a part of Salina for the past nine years.”Salina Liberty co-owner <a href="https://www.salinaliberty.com/staff">Dan Mendicina</a>

followed Robinson, explaining the history of the Liberty. After the abrupt departure of the Salina Bombers in 2015, Mendicina and other local business leaders founded the Salina Liberty. Since then, the team has become one of the most successful franchises in indoor football, winning a national championship in 2022.Last year, the Salina Liberty joined the relaunch of the Arena Football League (AFL) and reached the Final Four, competing against teams from large markets like Orlando and Nashville. However, the league ultimately collapsed, leaving the Salina Liberty team short by $250,000 in expected revenues.The new league, not affiliated or rebuilt from the AFL, called Arena Football One is led by former Los Angeles Rams and Tennessee Titans head coach Jeff Fisher.&nbsp;Adam Pelletier, spokesperson for Arena Football One said the Salina Liberty's team's stability and professionalism is seen both on and off the field.&nbsp;"Salina has been a pillar of stability in the 50-yard game for years," Pelletier said. "It's really exciting to see the community get behind them [Liberty] in a big way like this. The team and the games belong to the communities where they are played. We're here for the fans." Additionally, Adam talked about how the league is working to improve stability and consistent scheduling.&nbsp;"Thanks to the leadership of our Commissioner Jeff Fisher, our CEO and all of our amazing teams, we're going to deliver stability, which means there's going to be a consistent schedule," he said. "It's going to be known. There's not going to be last-minute changes. The schedule is going to be locked in in November, and all those games are going to get played. ""As we look forward, we've committed to 2025 our head coach is one of the winningest coaches in indoor football-Heron O'Neil. He's in the Hall of Fame for the IFL, and also played professionally in the National Football League," Mendacina said."Liberty works hard to build strong relationships with community partners, and it's just a great value add, because you have a team in Salina that was incredibly competitive last year on the field," Pelletier said. "This support is really going to go a long way to showing that the 50-yard game is here to stay in Salina, Kansas."While commissioners expressed support for the team, some questioned whether the funding should fall under economic development. Commissioner Mike Hoppock suggested viewing the financial support as more of a community investment."It just didn't feel right to me for this to fall under the economic development umbrella," Hoppock said. "When we look to bring workers into the community you don't know what it is that makes somebody want to be here. Is it the Art Center? Is it the community theatre or the baseball fields at Bill Burke Park. I do believe it adds something to thecommunity, but I think it maybe sends the wrong message falling under the Economic Development."Hoppock also said that his business, Land Title Services Inc., is one of the 200+ Salina Liberty sponsors.Mayor Longbine said he felt the dollar amount was a little too high.&nbsp;"This really doesn't fall under economic development, and I think I would be okay with this sponsorship, but I&nbsp;think the $35,000 is a little excessive, just coming straight out of the city budget."Commissioners voted 4-1 in favor of allocating $35,000 from the 2025 contingency fund to support the team, which will begin its next season in March.Mayor Longbine was the dissenting vote.&nbsp;

CORRECTION: City of Salina gives $35,000 to Salina Liberty indoor football team

The Solomon Methodist Women will host a soup supper and bake sale on Wednesday, October 16, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Solomon Methodist Church,111 N Walnut Street in Solomon. 

Attendees can enjoy a variety of soups, including vegetable beef, chili, and potato soup, along with sandwiches, fresh pie, and homemade candies available for purchase at the food booth. 

The event is a free-will offering, and carry-out options will be available.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729007538916.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Solomon Methodist Women will host a soup supper and bake sale on Wednesday, October 16, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Solomon Methodist Church,111 N Walnut Street in Solomon. Attendees can enjoy a variety of soups, including vegetable beef, chili, and potato soup, along with sandwiches, fresh pie, and homemade candies available for purchase at the food booth. The event is a free-will offering, and carry-out options will be available.&nbsp;

Solomon Methodist Women soup supper, bake sale Oct. 16

Mark your calendars for Friday, March 7 at 7:30 p.m. when Drew and Ellie Holcomb will bring their Memory Bank Tour to the Stiefel Theatre. Tickets range from $38 to $58, with VIP packages available. Tickets go on sale Friday, Oct. 18 at 10 a.m., and can be purchased in person at the Stiefel Theatre Box Office or online at <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>. For more information, call 785-827-1998.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729004452022.jpeg" alt="Drew and Ellie Holcomb" />
 <figcaption>Drew and Ellie Holcomb</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedMark your calendars for Friday, March 7 at 7:30 p.m. when Drew and Ellie Holcomb will bring their Memory Bank Tour to the Stiefel Theatre. Tickets range from $38 to $58, with VIP packages available. Tickets go on sale Friday, Oct. 18 at 10 a.m., and can be purchased in person at the Stiefel Theatre Box Office or online at <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>. For more information, call 785-827-1998.Drew Holcomb has spent nearly two decades bringing fans together through his music, turning every show into a celebration of community. His band’s latest album, Strangers No More, features the #1 Americana hit “Find Your People.”Ellie Holcomb, after an eight-year stint in her husband’s band, launched a successful solo career with Top 10 hits and four Dove Awards to her name. Her 2021 release, Canyon, earned widespread praise and another Top 10 single.The Memory Bank Tour supports Drew and Ellie’s first-ever full-length duo record. This special evening offers fans a rare opportunity to see the couple perform together once again.