Happy Eclipse Day from the Salina Post newsroom!

The following photos were captured by Salina Post Photojournalist Olivia Bergmeier at the Salina Post/Eagle Radio offices located at 1825 S. Ohio Street in Salina, Kansas.&nbsp;

To learn more about the 2024 total solar eclipse visit&nbsp;<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/eclipse-2024/">NASA’s eclipse website</a>.

Happy Eclipse Day from the Salina Post newsroom!The following photos were captured by Salina Post Photojournalist Olivia Bergmeier at the Salina Post/Eagle Radio offices located at 1825 S. Ohio Street in Salina, Kansas.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712605141658.jpeg" alt="The solar eclipse in Salina at 1:20 p.m. on Monday, April 8. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The solar eclipse in Salina at 1:20 p.m. on Monday, April 8. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712605170837.jpeg" alt="The solar eclipse in Salina at 1:39 p.m. on Monday, April 8. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The solar eclipse in Salina at 1:39 p.m. on Monday, April 8. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712605239237.jpeg" alt="The solar eclipse in Salina at 1:49 p.m. on Monday, April 8. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The solar eclipse in Salina at 1:49 p.m. on Monday, April 8. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712605266370.jpeg" alt="The solar eclipse in Salina at 1:56 p.m. on Monday, April 8. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The solar eclipse in Salina at 1:56 p.m. on Monday, April 8. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712605286271.jpeg" alt="The solar eclipse in Salina at 2:04 p.m. on Monday, April 8. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The solar eclipse in Salina at 2:04 p.m. on Monday, April 8. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712605309570.jpeg" alt="The solar eclipse in Salina at 2:11 p.m. on Monday, April 8. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The solar eclipse in Salina at 2:11 p.m. on Monday, April 8. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>To learn more about the 2024 total solar eclipse visit&nbsp;<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/eclipse-2024/">NASA’s eclipse website</a>.

📸 The view from Salina — 2024 Solar Eclipse

Monte Shadwick - District 1Robert Vidricksen II - District 2

Tuesday, April 9, 2024, 9:00 a.m. 300 W Ash Room 107 Salina, Kansas 67401

County offices will be open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., unless otherwise noted.

If you need any assistance in participating in any meeting or event due to a disability as defined under ADA, please call the County'sCounty's ADA Coordinator at (785) 309-5812 or email&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="mailto:leamerm@salinecountyks.gov">leamerm@salinecountyks.gov</a>&nbsp;before the scheduled meeting or event to request accommodations.

Saline County Commission meetings are LIVE and streamed on the county's YouTube&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125/streams">channel here.&nbsp;</a>

B. Flag Salute &amp; Moment of Silence

&nbsp; &nbsp; ⦁ Approval of Tax Roll Adjustments

&nbsp; &nbsp; ⦁ Approval of Accounts Payable

&nbsp; &nbsp; ⦁ Approval of Public Forum Agenda

&nbsp; &nbsp; ⦁ Health Plan Amendment 03

&nbsp; &nbsp; ⦁ Bid Award for 2024 Bituminous Chip Sealing, 2024-58

&nbsp; &nbsp; ⦁ Policy Revisions 04/09/2024, 2024-64

&nbsp; &nbsp; ⦁ Acceptance of Local Environmental Protection Program Grant, 2024-&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 62&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 

&nbsp; &nbsp; ⦁ Bid Award for Lawn Mowing Services, 2024-56

&nbsp; &nbsp; Background Information:

With the move of the Sheriff’s Office and the rental of 203 N 10th, the need for lawn mowing services was discovered. Staff worked with administration at the Salina Police Department since their building is connected, to build bid specifications for acquiring these services. Bids were opened on March 22nd, and four bids were received with one bid not complying with specifications.

Lawn mowing services were bid out at a per-cutting price, per location, for the next two years with an option to extend the contract for two additional one-year terms. Since the frequency of cuttings will be dependent on weather factors, staff evaluated the bids based on estimating 29 cuttings between April 15 and November 1.

2024 - $11,455 ($5,945 county and $5,510 city)

2025 - $12,905 ($6,815 county and $6,090 city)

2024 - $14,790 ($7,250 county and $7,540 city)

2025 - $15,515 ($7,685 county and $7,830 city)

2024 - $17,487 ($8,555 county and $8,932 city)

2025 - $19,285 ($9,454 county and $9,831 city)

The locations that would be serviced for the County include 251 N. 10th, 229 N. Ninth, and 203 N. 10th. Locations that would be serviced for the Salina Police Department would be 255 N. 10th and 3815 Yost Drive. 

The County and City would each be responsible for the cost of services at their respective locations.&nbsp; &nbsp;

District Court in an ongoing plan to update at least one existing courtroom per year with upto-date Audio/Visual and Hearing-Impaired system.

One year ago, we received 5 proposals from vendors in the area to include McClelland Inc, Wichita; Wilson Security, Salina; CTi, Wichita; Hopp’s Sound, McPherson; and ECC,Wichita. 

Proposals were evaluated by Court Administrator, Todd Heitschmidt and Chief District Judge, Jared Johnson based on evaluation criteria outlined in the RFP.

Hopp’s Sound was the selected vendor and the courts have been using the Audio/Visual equipment from Hopp’s now for almost one year in one of the new courtrooms and 6 months in a second new courtroom. The quality of the equipment and the service provided by Hopp’s has exceeded the court's expectations. Therefore, in keeping with the integrity and consistency of the Audio/Visual equipment used in the two new courtrooms. 

The District Court is asking the Commission for approval to have Hopp’s Sound out of McPherson install a new Audio/Visual system in one of the existing courtrooms on the 3rd floor of the City-County Building.

Another important factor that solidified the Court's decision was the warranty Hopp’s is willing to offer. A three-year warranty for parts and labor plus an additional two-year warranty on labor after the warranty for parts expires.

Hopp’s Sound $47,373.80 Three (3) year warranty for parts and labor plus an additional two (2) year warranty on labor after warranty for parts expires.

&nbsp; ⦁ Behavioral Health Court, 2024-65

&nbsp; ⦁ Emergency Management Quarter 2 Update, 2024-57

&nbsp; ⦁ Treasurer’s Bond Interest Report, 2024-61

&nbsp; ⦁ Treasurer’s Idle Fund Report, 2024-60

&nbsp; ⦁ County Administrator Update 040924

&nbsp;⦁ Discussion of Biweekly Meeting Schedule

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697467290838.jpeg" alt="The Saline County and Salina City building at 300 West Ash Street in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The Saline County and Salina City building at 300 West Ash Street in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POST<h2>Board of County Commissioners:</h2>Monte Shadwick - District 1Robert Vidricksen II - District 2Rodger Sparks - District 3James Weese - District 4Chairman, Joe Hay Jr. - District 5<h2>About the Meeting</h2>Tuesday, April 9, 2024, 9:00 a.m. 300 W Ash Room 107 Salina, Kansas 67401County offices will be open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., unless otherwise noted.If you need any assistance in participating in any meeting or event due to a disability as defined under ADA, please call the County'sCounty's ADA Coordinator at (785) 309-5812 or email&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="mailto:leamerm@salinecountyks.gov">leamerm@salinecountyks.gov</a>&nbsp;before the scheduled meeting or event to request accommodations.Saline County Commission meetings are LIVE and streamed on the county's YouTube&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125/streams">channel here.&nbsp;</a>A. Call To OrderB. Flag Salute &amp; Moment of SilenceC. Public ForumD.Consent Agenda&nbsp; &nbsp; ⦁ Approval of Tax Roll Adjustments&nbsp; &nbsp; ⦁ Approval of Accounts Payable&nbsp; &nbsp; ⦁ Approval of Public Forum Agenda&nbsp; &nbsp; ⦁ Approval of Payroll&nbsp; &nbsp; ⦁ Health Plan Amendment 03E. Action Items&nbsp; &nbsp; ⦁ Bid Award for 2024 Bituminous Chip Sealing, 2024-58&nbsp; &nbsp; ⦁ Policy Revisions 04/09/2024, 2024-64&nbsp; &nbsp; ⦁ Acceptance of Local Environmental Protection Program Grant, 2024-&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 62&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ⦁ Bid Award for Lawn Mowing Services, 2024-56&nbsp; &nbsp; Background Information:With the move of the Sheriff’s Office and the rental of 203 N 10th, the need for lawn mowing services was discovered. Staff worked with administration at the Salina Police Department since their building is connected, to build bid specifications for acquiring these services. Bids were opened on March 22nd, and four bids were received with one bid not complying with specifications.Lawn mowing services were bid out at a per-cutting price, per location, for the next two years with an option to extend the contract for two additional one-year terms. Since the frequency of cuttings will be dependent on weather factors, staff evaluated the bids based on estimating 29 cuttings between April 15 and November 1.Total bids are as follows:ARD Mowing2024 - $11,455 ($5,945 county and $5,510 city)2025 - $12,905 ($6,815 county and $6,090 city)Four Brothers2024 - $14,790 ($7,250 county and $7,540 city)2025 - $15,515 ($7,685 county and $7,830 city)Fox Lawn &amp; Landscape2024 - $17,487 ($8,555 county and $8,932 city)2025 - $19,285 ($9,454 county and $9,831 city)The locations that would be serviced for the County include 251 N. 10th, 229 N. Ninth, and 203 N. 10th. Locations that would be serviced for the Salina Police Department would be 255 N. 10th and 3815 Yost Drive. The County and City would each be responsible for the cost of services at their respective locations.&nbsp; &nbsp;⦁ 2024 Courtroom Audio/Visual, 2024-55Background Information:District Court in an ongoing plan to update at least one existing courtroom per year with upto-date Audio/Visual and Hearing-Impaired system.One year ago, we received 5 proposals from vendors in the area to include McClelland Inc, Wichita; Wilson Security, Salina; CTi, Wichita; Hopp’s Sound, McPherson; and ECC,Wichita. Proposals were evaluated by Court Administrator, Todd Heitschmidt and Chief District Judge, Jared Johnson based on evaluation criteria outlined in the RFP.Hopp’s Sound was the selected vendor and the courts have been using the Audio/Visual equipment from Hopp’s now for almost one year in one of the new courtrooms and 6 months in a second new courtroom. The quality of the equipment and the service provided by Hopp’s has exceeded the court's expectations. Therefore, in keeping with the integrity and consistency of the Audio/Visual equipment used in the two new courtrooms. The District Court is asking the Commission for approval to have Hopp’s Sound out of McPherson install a new Audio/Visual system in one of the existing courtrooms on the 3rd floor of the City-County Building.Another important factor that solidified the Court's decision was the warranty Hopp’s is willing to offer. A three-year warranty for parts and labor plus an additional two-year warranty on labor after the warranty for parts expires.Hopp’s Sound $47,373.80 Three (3) year warranty for parts and labor plus an additional two (2) year warranty on labor after warranty for parts expires.F. Informational Items&nbsp; ⦁ Behavioral Health Court, 2024-65&nbsp; ⦁ Emergency Management Quarter 2 Update, 2024-57&nbsp; ⦁ Treasurer’s Bond Interest Report, 2024-61&nbsp; ⦁ Treasurer’s Idle Fund Report, 2024-60&nbsp; ⦁ County Administrator Update 040924&nbsp; ⦁ Commissioner Comments&nbsp; ⦁ AnnouncementsG. Concept Discussion&nbsp;⦁ Discussion of Biweekly Meeting ScheduleH. 04/16/2024 Agenda ItemsI. Adjournment

Saline County Commission Agenda, April 9

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

On Friday evening, at about 5 p.m., Salina Police Department officers responded to a witness who reported gunshots in the 700 block of Fairdale Road.

According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, the witness told officers they heard three to four shots fired and saw a dark gray Dodge SUV driving erratically away from the neighborhood. 

"We then started getting reports of the same vehicle driving erratically down Magnolia, nearly causing several accidents," Feldman said. "Someone observed the driver with a handgun."

Feldman said once officers acquired the license plate information from the vehicle, they tracked down its owner in the 900 block of South Second Street in town.

Once officers arrived, they began communicating with a 27-year-old woman at the residence, and officers asked her and three young children, ages 3, 7 and 5, to leave the home.

"That was at approximately 5:33 p.m. that we were at the house, and just after 6 p.m., our negotiators attempted to make contact with the male subject identified as [38-year-old Salina resident] Zachary VanBebber," Feldman said.

The negotiator then continued conversations with VanBebber, and at about 7:30 p.m., VanBebber exited the home and officers arrested him. 

Feldman said officers then served and conducted a search warrant on the residence and vehicle, where they found two handguns and several shell casings.

Officers then requested charges for unlawful discharge of a firearm within city limits, criminal use of a weapon, possession of a firearm while under the influence, driving while suspended, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/119b1026-9b71-4b97-9dd4-8e633e803509">Proclamations, noxious weed control, city property mowing bid on the Salina City Commission Meeting agenda</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574355645622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostOn Friday evening, at about 5 p.m., Salina Police Department officers responded to a witness who reported gunshots in the 700 block of Fairdale Road.According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, the witness told officers they heard three to four shots fired and saw a dark gray Dodge SUV driving erratically away from the neighborhood. "We then started getting reports of the same vehicle driving erratically down Magnolia, nearly causing several accidents," Feldman said. "Someone observed the driver with a handgun."Feldman said once officers acquired the license plate information from the vehicle, they tracked down its owner in the 900 block of South Second Street in town.Once officers arrived, they began communicating with a 27-year-old woman at the residence, and officers asked her and three young children, ages 3, 7 and 5, to leave the home."That was at approximately 5:33 p.m. that we were at the house, and just after 6 p.m., our negotiators attempted to make contact with the male subject identified as [38-year-old Salina resident] Zachary VanBebber," Feldman said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712410220375.jpeg" alt="VanBebber, Zachary Lynn" />
 <figcaption>VanBebber, Zachary Lynn</figcaption>
 </figure>The negotiator then continued conversations with VanBebber, and at about 7:30 p.m., VanBebber exited the home and officers arrested him. Feldman said officers then served and conducted a search warrant on the residence and vehicle, where they found two handguns and several shell casings.Officers then requested charges for unlawful discharge of a firearm within city limits, criminal use of a weapon, possession of a firearm while under the influence, driving while suspended, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/119b1026-9b71-4b97-9dd4-8e633e803509">Proclamations, noxious weed control, city property mowing bid on the Salina City Commission Meeting agenda</a>

Shots fired in Salina neighborhood lead to quick arrest by SPD 

The spine of the central plains will likely see a line of fast-moving storms move through tomorrow, with broken-up storms beginning in the mid to late afternoon.

Before any lightning flashes, though, most Kansans will experience sustained winds at 35 to 40 mph, with gusts that could reach almost 60 mph. 

"The biggest concern that we're looking at as far as widespread is the strong gusty winds," said National Weather Service Wichita Meteorologist Bryan Baerg. "It's going to be a real thin line of thunderstorms, so maybe at any given location, you'll have storms for about 15 minutes to half an hour tomorrow, so it's not a long-duration storm event by any means." 

Storms will likely begin firing off between 5 and 7 p.m., with most developing from regions of central Nebraska to south-central Kansas. Baerg said the storms will move at a blistering pace, around 50 to 60 mph, moving to the northeast.

The main concern with this weekend's system will be the straight-line winds blowing through the state. Although Baerg said it would be a robust system, cyclonic activity or tornadoes are unlikely due to the gusty surface-level winds.

"The atmosphere just has so much wind in it that when you get a storm that comes over it, it could try to mix down those winds, but shoot, even without the storms, we're going to be dealing with nearly severe-caliber winds of near 60 mph anyways," Baerg said.

The strong winds will continue through Sunday. Baerg said they will switch directions and have sustained speeds of 25 to 30 mph, with gusts reaching near 50 mph throughout the morning. 

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/aa6c0045-c0c4-4336-ac58-6fb4cab6daa3">🎥 Planned burn turned into uncontrolled fire in rural Saline County</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712342155688.jpeg" alt="A skinny, broken line of strong to severe storms is forecast to develop and move quickly northeastward Saturday afternoon and evening. Nickel to quarter-size hail, along with wind gusts to 65 mph, will be possible with the stronger storms. Graphic courtesy National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita)" />
 <figcaption>A skinny, broken line of strong to severe storms is forecast to develop and move quickly northeastward Saturday afternoon and evening. Nickel to quarter-size hail, along with wind gusts to 65 mph, will be possible with the stronger storms. Graphic courtesy National Weather Service Wichita (NWS Wichita)</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostThe spine of the central plains will likely see a line of fast-moving storms move through tomorrow, with broken-up storms beginning in the mid to late afternoon.Before any lightning flashes, though, most Kansans will experience sustained winds at 35 to 40 mph, with gusts that could reach almost 60 mph. "The biggest concern that we're looking at as far as widespread is the strong gusty winds," said National Weather Service Wichita Meteorologist Bryan Baerg. "It's going to be a real thin line of thunderstorms, so maybe at any given location, you'll have storms for about 15 minutes to half an hour tomorrow, so it's not a long-duration storm event by any means." Storms will likely begin firing off between 5 and 7 p.m., with most developing from regions of central Nebraska to south-central Kansas. Baerg said the storms will move at a blistering pace, around 50 to 60 mph, moving to the northeast.The main concern with this weekend's system will be the straight-line winds blowing through the state. Although Baerg said it would be a robust system, cyclonic activity or tornadoes are unlikely due to the gusty surface-level winds."The atmosphere just has so much wind in it that when you get a storm that comes over it, it could try to mix down those winds, but shoot, even without the storms, we're going to be dealing with nearly severe-caliber winds of near 60 mph anyways," Baerg said.The strong winds will continue through Sunday. Baerg said they will switch directions and have sustained speeds of 25 to 30 mph, with gusts reaching near 50 mph throughout the morning. READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/aa6c0045-c0c4-4336-ac58-6fb4cab6daa3">🎥 Planned burn turned into uncontrolled fire in rural Saline County</a>

Strong winds and thunderstorms moving into Kansas tomorrow 

Click the center of the above video to play drone footage collected by Salina Post reporter, Olivia Bergmeier.

Yesterday, many ranchers and landowners had a productive day for controlled burns across north central Kansas, with many in the southern portion of the state seeing smoky skies for miles.

Although many remained controlled, one planned burn in east Saline County a few miles north of Kipp eventually got out of hand around 12:30 p.m., requiring Saline County Rural Fire District Five (RFD #5) to respond to the blaze.

"It was a good day to burn. The problem with this burn was that the person who started it did it on the wrong side — so he started with the wind instead of against it," said RFD #5 Chief David Turner. "So the wind just kind of pushed it from there."

A landowner began the then-controlled burn about half a mile north of East Crawford Street near South Whitmore Road in a rural portion of the county. It then burned south, pushed by the northern winds.

Turner said eight RFD #5 units responded to the fire and quickly subdued it about an hour later. During the grass fire event, the flames did not damage buildings, people or livestock.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6f0843d4-e273-479a-a50d-399556151209">Saline County Commissioners consider proclamations and awarding bids at regular meeting</a>

<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/iR3S2VVQ-ATjzBQNW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="2024.04.04.KippGrassfire" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Click the center of the above video to play drone footage collected by Salina Post reporter, Olivia Bergmeier.By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostYesterday, many ranchers and landowners had a productive day for controlled burns across north central Kansas, with many in the southern portion of the state seeing smoky skies for miles.Although many remained controlled, one planned burn in east Saline County a few miles north of Kipp eventually got out of hand around 12:30 p.m., requiring Saline County Rural Fire District Five (RFD #5) to respond to the blaze."It was a good day to burn. The problem with this burn was that the person who started it did it on the wrong side — so he started with the wind instead of against it," said RFD #5 Chief David Turner. "So the wind just kind of pushed it from there."A landowner began the then-controlled burn about half a mile north of East Crawford Street near South Whitmore Road in a rural portion of the county. It then burned south, pushed by the northern winds.Turner said eight RFD #5 units responded to the fire and quickly subdued it about an hour later. During the grass fire event, the flames did not damage buildings, people or livestock.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6f0843d4-e273-479a-a50d-399556151209">Saline County Commissioners consider proclamations and awarding bids at regular meeting</a>

🎥 Planned burn turned into uncontrolled fire in rural Saline County

The Saline County Commission met for its regular meeting this week and discussed four proclamations, considered three different purchases and approved the recipients of the Oliver Hagg Scholarship Awards.

Board of County Commissioners present on Tuesday, April 2: District One — Monte Shadwick District Two — Robert Vidricksen District Three — Rodger Sparks District Four — James Weese District Five — Chairman Joe Hay Jr.

The board of commissioners first approved its consent agenda, which included the regular tax roll adjustments, accounts payable and previous meeting minutes.&nbsp;

It also included approval for the recipients of the Oliver Hagg Scholarship and reappointing Saline County Deputy Administrator Hannah Bett to the North Central Regional Homeland Security Council [LINK].

Once commissioners approved the consent agenda, Jes Pfannenstiel, a <a href="https://www.kworcc.com/">KWORCC</a>&nbsp;loss prevention specialist and marketing director, presented an award to Saline County for a low-loss ratio in worker's compensation.

Next on the agenda were the eight action items for commissioners to consider, the first of which included a proclamation for Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

<a href="http://dvack.org/">DVACK</a>&nbsp;Sexual Assault Advocate Angie White presented the proclamation to the commission.

White shared a few statistics on sexual violence and DVACK's services for victims of sexual violence. Hay asked what events the organization would plan for the month-long observance.

The community resource will host a vigil for sexual violence victims at Kansas Wesleyan University on Monday, April 8, and an Ad Astra Speak Night on Friday, April 19, for survivors to share their stories.

The following proclamation was for Child Abuse Prevention Month, presented to the commission by <a href="https://capsofsalina.org/">Child Advocacy and Parenting Services (CAPS)</a> Interim Executive Director Paul Forrester.

Hay similarly asked what events or campaigns the organization will host for the observance. Forrester said CAPS has multiple activities planned, including <a href="https://e.givesmart.com/events/Ag4/">an online auction</a>, Go Blue Salina Denim Days, Shine a Light for Survivors and Pinwheels for Prevention Challenge.

After that, the commission considered two more proclamations, one for National County Government Month and National Public Health Week.

Commissioners approved all four proclamations for the county.&nbsp;

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a198af7c-fb50-44bc-99a6-6d0624d87744">Saline County residents enter race for county attorney</a>

Jason Tiller, the Saline County Health Department director, presented the proclamation on National Public Health Week, and after approving three month-long observances, Weese asked Tiller one question after approving the declaration.

"Jason, why do you only get a week while everyone else gets a month?" Weese posed.

"I guess because we had like three years," Tiller answered. The audience and county staff met that answer with a round of laughter.

Bid considerations and broadband community assessment

Once commissioners approved all four proclamations, the next agenda item included the purchase of a new dump truck for Saline County Road and Bridge.

Darren Fishel, the Road and Bridge administrator, presented two quotes for the commission, one from MHC Kenworth in Salina for $187,265.55 or the other from Truck Center Companies in Wichita for $147,396.00.

"Both trucks were specced the same, and that one was just that much cheaper," Fishel said.

Truck Center Companies' quote was almost $40,000 less than MHC Kenworth's, so the commission approved Truck Center Companies for the purchase 5-0.

Saline County Public Information Officer Melissa McCoy presented the next agenda item — a broadband community assessment to identify county areas without reliable internet.

Saline County initially requested this assessment during the January 31 meeting earlier this year. McCoy detailed that two companies submitted proposals to the county, one estimated for $48,000 by Design Nine Broadband Planners and another for $169,580 from Essentia.

A review committee comprised of Renee Duxler, president and CEO of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, Claire Ludes, executive director of the Salina Area United Way, and Amy Adams, assistant director of the Salina Public Library, met on March 13 to discuss the two proposals.

The price difference between the two businesses reaches more than $120,000, but McCoy said the scope of the assessment is similar for both proposals.

"Everyone on the committee agreed, even given the same price, they would have chosen Design Nine. It is a big disparity, [but] looking at the proposals side by side, the scope of work is not much different," McCoy said. "I don't have a great answer as to why one of them is so much more expensive than the other."

LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/bf675502-008d-4306-9771-be284ed89dd4">🎙King in the Community: Saline County Administrator, Phil Smith-Hanes</a>

McCoy said the staff recommended that commissioners accept Design Nine's proposal to proceed with the assessment.

After presenting the two proposals, Sparks asked McCoy why the county sought this assessment and what the county would do after completing the study. Sparks' main concern was that, after completing the evaluation, would the county then provide internet access to those without a reliable connection?

McCoy answered that the study would show where county residents do not have access to reliable internet and have information to create a "road map" for better internet access.

Commissioners then considered it for a few more moments until it was motioned for action, which passed 4-1, with Sparks voting against the proposal.

The commissioners' next agenda item was a bid consideration for a roof layover at the previous Saline County Jail, which now houses Court Services.

Earlier this year, Saline County Administrator Phil Smith-Hanes told commissioners about the poor condition of the Court Services building's roof, leading commissioners to seek bids for its repair.

At first, commissioners hesitated to continue spending money on the old jail and its connecting offices. However, Hay said it changed his mind after walking through the building and recognizing the comfortable fit for Court Services.

"When we first went into this and took that tour over there, I was very against spending any money at all on that jail itself until I went in and took a tour with court services," Hay said. "I think that's going to be money well-spent to keep them in a building where they are comfortable, safe, and able to utilize that building well."

Hannah Bett, the Saline County deputy administrator, presented the five bids opened on March 22 to the commission. Staff recommended Meridian Roofing's bid of $67,055 for a layover repair.

After a few more minutes of deliberation, commissioners approved Meridian Roofing's bid 5-0.

The last action item listed was lawn mowing at the now Court Services building since Saline County Sheriff's Office maintenance staff used to mow the lawn at that facility.

Bett presented various bids for lawn mowing services between April 15 and November 1 this year, which Vidricksen met with some dissatisfaction.

Vidricksen asked Bett and Smith-Hanes why other county maintenance staff couldn't add Court Services and the Police Department buildings to their mowing list.

"What I would like to see happen is send this back to staff and come up with an alternate solution in addition to what you already have here," Vidricksen said.

Smith-Hanes said staff could look into restructuring how Saline County maintenance staff mow the lawns at Saline County buildings, but it would take some time.

"I don't think that's going to happen before the lawn needs mowed, so we need a solution for April 15," Smith-Hanes said.&nbsp;

Vidricksen then offered that the commissioners could fill in while staff found a solution for lawn mowing. Shadwick chuckled and said, "I don't even cut my own grass."

Shadwick then moved that the commission table the topic until next week to avoid paying for lawn mowing services from a local company.

Informational items covered at the meeting

The last action item concluded with the lawn mowing topic, and commissioners moved into the next portion of the meeting, which included a quarterly report from the engineering department.

Justin Mader, the county engineer, presented the various projects the department has conducted since the beginning of 2024.

This included a Farrelly Road pipe lining project completion, material bids for pipe culverts and traffic paint, opening bids for the 2024 chip and crack sealing projects, an update on the overlay and patching projects around the county and plans for a low water crossing on McReynolds Road.

Smith-Hanes also provided a legislative update to commissioners to conclude the meeting. Next week's meeting will include an update from the Saline County Emergency Management Department and a bid award for the 2024 chip sealing project.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695675567531.jpeg" alt="Saline County and Salina City Building, on Iron Street in Salina, KS. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Saline County and Salina City Building, on Iron Street in Salina, KS. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostThe Saline County Commission met for its regular meeting this week and discussed four proclamations, considered three different purchases and approved the recipients of the Oliver Hagg Scholarship Awards.Board of County Commissioners present on Tuesday, April 2: District One — Monte Shadwick District Two — Robert Vidricksen District Three — Rodger Sparks District Four — James Weese District Five — Chairman Joe Hay Jr.The board of commissioners first approved its consent agenda, which included the regular tax roll adjustments, accounts payable and previous meeting minutes.&nbsp;It also included approval for the recipients of the Oliver Hagg Scholarship and reappointing Saline County Deputy Administrator Hannah Bett to the North Central Regional Homeland Security Council [LINK].Once commissioners approved the consent agenda, Jes Pfannenstiel, a <a href="https://www.kworcc.com/">KWORCC</a>&nbsp;loss prevention specialist and marketing director, presented an award to Saline County for a low-loss ratio in worker's compensation.Next on the agenda were the eight action items for commissioners to consider, the first of which included a proclamation for Sexual Assault Awareness Month.<a href="http://dvack.org/">DVACK</a>&nbsp;Sexual Assault Advocate Angie White presented the proclamation to the commission.White shared a few statistics on sexual violence and DVACK's services for victims of sexual violence. Hay asked what events the organization would plan for the month-long observance.The community resource will host a vigil for sexual violence victims at Kansas Wesleyan University on Monday, April 8, and an Ad Astra Speak Night on Friday, April 19, for survivors to share their stories.The following proclamation was for Child Abuse Prevention Month, presented to the commission by <a href="https://capsofsalina.org/">Child Advocacy and Parenting Services (CAPS)</a> Interim Executive Director Paul Forrester.Hay similarly asked what events or campaigns the organization will host for the observance. Forrester said CAPS has multiple activities planned, including <a href="https://e.givesmart.com/events/Ag4/">an online auction</a>, Go Blue Salina Denim Days, Shine a Light for Survivors and Pinwheels for Prevention Challenge.After that, the commission considered two more proclamations, one for National County Government Month and National Public Health Week.Commissioners approved all four proclamations for the county.&nbsp;READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a198af7c-fb50-44bc-99a6-6d0624d87744">Saline County residents enter race for county attorney</a>Jason Tiller, the Saline County Health Department director, presented the proclamation on National Public Health Week, and after approving three month-long observances, Weese asked Tiller one question after approving the declaration."Jason, why do you only get a week while everyone else gets a month?" Weese posed."I guess because we had like three years," Tiller answered. The audience and county staff met that answer with a round of laughter.<h2>Bid considerations and broadband community assessment</h2>Once commissioners approved all four proclamations, the next agenda item included the purchase of a new dump truck for Saline County Road and Bridge.Darren Fishel, the Road and Bridge administrator, presented two quotes for the commission, one from MHC Kenworth in Salina for $187,265.55 or the other from Truck Center Companies in Wichita for $147,396.00."Both trucks were specced the same, and that one was just that much cheaper," Fishel said.Truck Center Companies' quote was almost $40,000 less than MHC Kenworth's, so the commission approved Truck Center Companies for the purchase 5-0.Saline County Public Information Officer Melissa McCoy presented the next agenda item — a broadband community assessment to identify county areas without reliable internet.Saline County initially requested this assessment during the January 31 meeting earlier this year. McCoy detailed that two companies submitted proposals to the county, one estimated for $48,000 by Design Nine Broadband Planners and another for $169,580 from Essentia.A review committee comprised of Renee Duxler, president and CEO of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, Claire Ludes, executive director of the Salina Area United Way, and Amy Adams, assistant director of the Salina Public Library, met on March 13 to discuss the two proposals.The price difference between the two businesses reaches more than $120,000, but McCoy said the scope of the assessment is similar for both proposals."Everyone on the committee agreed, even given the same price, they would have chosen Design Nine. It is a big disparity, [but] looking at the proposals side by side, the scope of work is not much different," McCoy said. "I don't have a great answer as to why one of them is so much more expensive than the other."LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/bf675502-008d-4306-9771-be284ed89dd4">🎙King in the Community: Saline County Administrator, Phil Smith-Hanes</a>McCoy said the staff recommended that commissioners accept Design Nine's proposal to proceed with the assessment.After presenting the two proposals, Sparks asked McCoy why the county sought this assessment and what the county would do after completing the study. Sparks' main concern was that, after completing the evaluation, would the county then provide internet access to those without a reliable connection?McCoy answered that the study would show where county residents do not have access to reliable internet and have information to create a "road map" for better internet access.Commissioners then considered it for a few more moments until it was motioned for action, which passed 4-1, with Sparks voting against the proposal.The commissioners' next agenda item was a bid consideration for a roof layover at the previous Saline County Jail, which now houses Court Services.Earlier this year, Saline County Administrator Phil Smith-Hanes told commissioners about the poor condition of the Court Services building's roof, leading commissioners to seek bids for its repair.At first, commissioners hesitated to continue spending money on the old jail and its connecting offices. However, Hay said it changed his mind after walking through the building and recognizing the comfortable fit for Court Services."When we first went into this and took that tour over there, I was very against spending any money at all on that jail itself until I went in and took a tour with court services," Hay said. "I think that's going to be money well-spent to keep them in a building where they are comfortable, safe, and able to utilize that building well."Hannah Bett, the Saline County deputy administrator, presented the five bids opened on March 22 to the commission. Staff recommended Meridian Roofing's bid of $67,055 for a layover repair.After a few more minutes of deliberation, commissioners approved Meridian Roofing's bid 5-0.The last action item listed was lawn mowing at the now Court Services building since Saline County Sheriff's Office maintenance staff used to mow the lawn at that facility.Bett presented various bids for lawn mowing services between April 15 and November 1 this year, which Vidricksen met with some dissatisfaction.Vidricksen asked Bett and Smith-Hanes why other county maintenance staff couldn't add Court Services and the Police Department buildings to their mowing list."What I would like to see happen is send this back to staff and come up with an alternate solution in addition to what you already have here," Vidricksen said.Smith-Hanes said staff could look into restructuring how Saline County maintenance staff mow the lawns at Saline County buildings, but it would take some time."I don't think that's going to happen before the lawn needs mowed, so we need a solution for April 15," Smith-Hanes said.&nbsp;Vidricksen then offered that the commissioners could fill in while staff found a solution for lawn mowing. Shadwick chuckled and said, "I don't even cut my own grass."Shadwick then moved that the commission table the topic until next week to avoid paying for lawn mowing services from a local company.<h2>Informational items covered at the meeting</h2>The last action item concluded with the lawn mowing topic, and commissioners moved into the next portion of the meeting, which included a quarterly report from the engineering department.Justin Mader, the county engineer, presented the various projects the department has conducted since the beginning of 2024.This included a Farrelly Road pipe lining project completion, material bids for pipe culverts and traffic paint, opening bids for the 2024 chip and crack sealing projects, an update on the overlay and patching projects around the county and plans for a low water crossing on McReynolds Road.Smith-Hanes also provided a legislative update to commissioners to conclude the meeting. Next week's meeting will include an update from the Saline County Emergency Management Department and a bid award for the 2024 chip sealing project.

Saline County Commissioners consider proclamations and awarding bids at regular meeting

Employees at the <a href="https://salinagrace.org/">Salina Grace Community Resource Center</a> called Salina Police Department officers after finding evidence of a burglary and theft in the organization's day shelter area.

The alleged burglary occurred at <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/1b1a930a-9ce9-431e-85c5-1e0e5f39d443">the community organization's new location</a> at 315 S. Broadway Avenue.

According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, employees found shoe prints on furniture and snacks missing when they arrived for work around 7:15 a.m. on Tuesday, April 2. 

"They [employees] reviewed their video surveillance, which showed a white male inside the business after closing," Feldman said. "Officers responded and were able to identify the subject as Justin Chappell, a 33-year-old male from Salina."

Feldman said the surveillance footage showed Chappell staying at the Community Resource Center after it closed at 4 p.m. on Monday, April 1. 

Chappell left the resource center sometime overnight.

Employees told officers that Chappell was a frequent visitor at the resource center, so he returned to the building for lunch the following day.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/783c1fe3-e015-41d1-a6c5-235764b2f91c">Salina non-profit leader wins 2024 Remarkable Women award</a>

There, staff called SPD, and officers arrived and arrested Chappell with requested charges for burglary and theft.

Chad Young, the executive director of the Salina Grace Foundation, said that although Chappell trespassed and stole items from the resource center, he would prefer that he not be charged for his actions.

"This does not help anything — it only hurts," Young said. "It feeds into negative stereotypes. This was just an individual having a difficult time, and his whole goal was self-preservation." 

"He didn't break in, and no, he didn't steal anything I wouldn't have given him freely."

The resource center staff did nothing wrong, but Young said he intends to establish a different protocol for employees in similar situations. Most residents experiencing financial challenges or homelessness are law-abiding citizens aiming to better their lives.

"They're not criminals — they're people who have fallen on hard times," Young said.

Young said he and his organization do not intend to pursue the requested charges against Chappell for the alleged burglary and theft.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574355645622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostEmployees at the <a href="https://salinagrace.org/">Salina Grace Community Resource Center</a> called Salina Police Department officers after finding evidence of a burglary and theft in the organization's day shelter area.The alleged burglary occurred at <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/1b1a930a-9ce9-431e-85c5-1e0e5f39d443">the community organization's new location</a> at 315 S. Broadway Avenue.According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, employees found shoe prints on furniture and snacks missing when they arrived for work around 7:15 a.m. on Tuesday, April 2. "They [employees] reviewed their video surveillance, which showed a white male inside the business after closing," Feldman said. "Officers responded and were able to identify the subject as Justin Chappell, a 33-year-old male from Salina."Feldman said the surveillance footage showed Chappell staying at the Community Resource Center after it closed at 4 p.m. on Monday, April 1. Chappell left the resource center sometime overnight.Employees told officers that Chappell was a frequent visitor at the resource center, so he returned to the building for lunch the following day.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/783c1fe3-e015-41d1-a6c5-235764b2f91c">Salina non-profit leader wins 2024 Remarkable Women award</a>There, staff called SPD, and officers arrived and arrested Chappell with requested charges for burglary and theft.Chad Young, the executive director of the Salina Grace Foundation, said that although Chappell trespassed and stole items from the resource center, he would prefer that he not be charged for his actions."This does not help anything — it only hurts," Young said. "It feeds into negative stereotypes. This was just an individual having a difficult time, and his whole goal was self-preservation." "He didn't break in, and no, he didn't steal anything I wouldn't have given him freely."The resource center staff did nothing wrong, but Young said he intends to establish a different protocol for employees in similar situations. Most residents experiencing financial challenges or homelessness are law-abiding citizens aiming to better their lives."They're not criminals — they're people who have fallen on hard times," Young said.Young said he and his organization do not intend to pursue the requested charges against Chappell for the alleged burglary and theft.

Salina Grace Foundation wants to drop charges for alleged burglary

At the <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/7068f395-a20b-49d1-9500-ce7d7041a7b2">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology</a> College Center, eight local business representatives and owners stood before three judges to vie for a $6,000 cash prize at the annual Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge.

Created three years ago by a conglomerate of Salina economic development organizations, the challenge aims to support new local commerce in town alongside honoring the well-known businessman Charlie Walker, who began multiple Salina businesses and the Rolling Hills Zoo.

The <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/28ee9989-31bb-4fbd-9f38-bac12ff3fb6b">Salina Community Economic Development Organization</a>, <a href="https://www.networkkansas.com/">NetWork Kansas</a> and the <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/fd756f88-a1fd-4dc9-a4b5-8e1772d73f85">Salina Area Chamber of Commerce</a> all help plan and produce the event through an organization named <a href="https://projectopensalina.com/startup-salina/">Startup Salina</a>.

Todd Welsh, the owner of <a href="https://salinahomes.com/">Salina Homes</a> and the Charlie Walker Pitch master of ceremonies, once worked with Walker early in his career and, throughout the evening, shared stories of Walker and his business practices.

Before the businesses presented, Welsh showed an image of Walker in his office, wearing a large horseshoe ring.

"Charlie Walker, when he wore that horseshoe ring, meant business," Welsh said. "He had it on every day... That was a big signature piece he had."

Each business had about five minutes to present its area of trade, which this year ranged from lactation consulting to a line of sustainable cleaning products.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/42dbd29f-e625-4828-b08f-570a490b9c4b">Salina Salvation Army benefit concert short of ticket sales amid financial struggles</a>

The businesses included AOT Acquisition and Consulting, LLC, <a href="https://beyoutifulcreationsbyas.square.site/">BeYOUtiful Creations by AS</a>,<a href="https://clubhousegolfsalina.com/"> Clubhouse Golf Salina, LLC</a>, Heartland Lactation, LLC, <a href="https://www.letitsew.net/">Let it Sew</a>, The Refillery, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/unlimitedsips">Unlimited Sips</a> and Weaves-n-Such.

This year's judges included John Gunn, a Salina area entrepreneur and a founder of the event, Darren Gregg, president and CEO of <a href="https://www.bsbks.com/">Bennington State Bank</a> and Megan Browne, support coordinator for <a href="https://jriusa.com/">JRI Hospitality</a>.

"I would bet half of them over the three years are in business trying to make their business work," Gunn said. "You just never know what's going to take off."

After years of service on the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce board and the Salina Community Economic Development Organization, the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge began as an idea from Gunn.&nbsp;

Gunn said he approached the Chamber and the Economic Development Organization with his idea, which then transformed into the modern-day Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge.

"This is not easy," said Salina Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Renee Duxler. "It takes a lot of guts to get in front of a group of complete strangers and share your dream and have to do it in less than five minutes."

Gunn, Gregg and Browne witnessed eight business owners and representatives pitch their ideas to the crowd and judges, but ultimately, The Refillery was the evening's winner.

The Refillery, owned and operated by Morgan Baughman, is a sustainability-focused business where she provides refills of cleaning supplies to customers to move away from single-use plastics.

Baughman said she worked hard leading up to the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge, and her reward will help her continue The Refillery dream.

"You work your ass for this for a long time, and you start to wonder, 'Am I delusional, or do I have a good idea?'" Baughman said. "I haven't worked harder on anything else in my whole life except maybe being a mom."

Sustainability has always been a part of Baughman's life, which she said helped spark an early interest in moving away from single-use plastics and adopting eco-friendly practices.

"I have always had a curiosity about the natural way things are made," Baughman said. "I think it's a bigger purpose of enjoying and understanding why all of this works day in and day out. It's like a common curiosity that turned into a bigger thing and wanting to enjoy the things of the Earth."

To the judges, The Refillery best matched their grading rubric by covering essential topics in a pitch, such as units sold, price per unit, and total profitability outlook of the business.

After The Refillery won the $6,000 cash prize for first place, Heartland Lactation by Jacee Rietbrock won second place with $4,000. 

AOT Acquisition and Consulting by Latoriea Edwards won the third place $3,000 prize, BeYOUtiful Creations by Adria Smith won a $2,000 fourth place prize and Unlimited Sips by Elizabeth Denholm won the $1,000 fifth-place prize.

Baughman said she intends to use the $6,000 cash prize to grow her business's online presence and appear in more local farm and art markets throughout the year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712002606734.jpeg" alt="Morgan Baughman, founder and owner of The Refillery, pitches her business to the judges during the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge on Friday, March 22, at K-State Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Morgan Baughman, founder and owner of The Refillery, pitches her business to the judges during the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge on Friday, March 22, at K-State Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostAt the <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/7068f395-a20b-49d1-9500-ce7d7041a7b2">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology</a> College Center, eight local business representatives and owners stood before three judges to vie for a $6,000 cash prize at the annual Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge.Created three years ago by a conglomerate of Salina economic development organizations, the challenge aims to support new local commerce in town alongside honoring the well-known businessman Charlie Walker, who began multiple Salina businesses and the Rolling Hills Zoo.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712003102799.jpeg" alt="Salina Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Renee Duxler introduces the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge to attendees on Friday, March 22, at the K-State Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Renee Duxler introduces the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge to attendees on Friday, March 22, at the K-State Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>The <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/28ee9989-31bb-4fbd-9f38-bac12ff3fb6b">Salina Community Economic Development Organization</a>, <a href="https://www.networkkansas.com/">NetWork Kansas</a> and the <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/fd756f88-a1fd-4dc9-a4b5-8e1772d73f85">Salina Area Chamber of Commerce</a> all help plan and produce the event through an organization named <a href="https://projectopensalina.com/startup-salina/">Startup Salina</a>.Todd Welsh, the owner of <a href="https://salinahomes.com/">Salina Homes</a> and the Charlie Walker Pitch master of ceremonies, once worked with Walker early in his career and, throughout the evening, shared stories of Walker and his business practices.Before the businesses presented, Welsh showed an image of Walker in his office, wearing a large horseshoe ring.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712003215432.jpeg" alt="Todd Welsh, owner of Salina Homes and Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge master of ceremonies, shares stories about Charlie Walker and his work in town on Friday, March 22, at the K-State Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Todd Welsh, owner of Salina Homes and Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge master of ceremonies, shares stories about Charlie Walker and his work in town on Friday, March 22, at the K-State Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"Charlie Walker, when he wore that horseshoe ring, meant business," Welsh said. "He had it on every day... That was a big signature piece he had."Each business had about five minutes to present its area of trade, which this year ranged from lactation consulting to a line of sustainable cleaning products.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/42dbd29f-e625-4828-b08f-570a490b9c4b">Salina Salvation Army benefit concert short of ticket sales amid financial struggles</a>The businesses included AOT Acquisition and Consulting, LLC, <a href="https://beyoutifulcreationsbyas.square.site/">BeYOUtiful Creations by AS</a>,<a href="https://clubhousegolfsalina.com/"> Clubhouse Golf Salina, LLC</a>, Heartland Lactation, LLC, <a href="https://www.letitsew.net/">Let it Sew</a>, The Refillery, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/unlimitedsips">Unlimited Sips</a> and Weaves-n-Such.This year's judges included John Gunn, a Salina area entrepreneur and a founder of the event, Darren Gregg, president and CEO of <a href="https://www.bsbks.com/">Bennington State Bank</a> and Megan Browne, support coordinator for <a href="https://jriusa.com/">JRI Hospitality</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712003269433.jpeg" alt="John Gunn listens as a local business pitches their idea during the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge on Friday, March 22, at the K-State Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>John Gunn listens as a local business pitches their idea during the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge on Friday, March 22, at the K-State Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"I would bet half of them over the three years are in business trying to make their business work," Gunn said. "You just never know what's going to take off."After years of service on the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce board and the Salina Community Economic Development Organization, the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge began as an idea from Gunn.&nbsp;Gunn said he approached the Chamber and the Economic Development Organization with his idea, which then transformed into the modern-day Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge."This is not easy," said Salina Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Renee Duxler. "It takes a lot of guts to get in front of a group of complete strangers and share your dream and have to do it in less than five minutes."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712004511101.jpeg" alt="Morgan Baughman, owner of The Refillery, listens to a judge question during the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge on Friday, March 22, at K-State Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Morgan Baughman, owner of The Refillery, listens to a judge question during the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge on Friday, March 22, at K-State Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Gunn, Gregg and Browne witnessed eight business owners and representatives pitch their ideas to the crowd and judges, but ultimately, The Refillery was the evening's winner.The Refillery, owned and operated by Morgan Baughman, is a sustainability-focused business where she provides refills of cleaning supplies to customers to move away from single-use plastics.Baughman said she worked hard leading up to the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge, and her reward will help her continue The Refillery dream.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712004594636.jpeg" alt="Morgan Baughman, owner of The Refillery, wipes a tear as she stands with the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge judges, Megan Browne, left, John Gunn, behind, and Darren Gregg, right, with her first-place prize of $6,000 on Friday, March 22, at K-State Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Morgan Baughman, owner of The Refillery, wipes a tear as she stands with the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge judges, Megan Browne, left, John Gunn, behind, and Darren Gregg, right, with her first-place prize of $6,000 on Friday, March 22, at K-State Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"You work your ass for this for a long time, and you start to wonder, 'Am I delusional, or do I have a good idea?'" Baughman said. "I haven't worked harder on anything else in my whole life except maybe being a mom."Sustainability has always been a part of Baughman's life, which she said helped spark an early interest in moving away from single-use plastics and adopting eco-friendly practices."I have always had a curiosity about the natural way things are made," Baughman said. "I think it's a bigger purpose of enjoying and understanding why all of this works day in and day out. It's like a common curiosity that turned into a bigger thing and wanting to enjoy the things of the Earth."To the judges, The Refillery best matched their grading rubric by covering essential topics in a pitch, such as units sold, price per unit, and total profitability outlook of the business.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712004661319.jpeg" alt="Jacee Rietbrook pitches Heartland Lactation, LLC, to the crowd and judges during the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge on Friday, March 22, at K-State Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Jacee Rietbrook pitches Heartland Lactation, LLC, to the crowd and judges during the Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge on Friday, March 22, at K-State Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>After The Refillery won the $6,000 cash prize for first place, Heartland Lactation by Jacee Rietbrock won second place with $4,000. AOT Acquisition and Consulting by Latoriea Edwards won the third place $3,000 prize, BeYOUtiful Creations by Adria Smith won a $2,000 fourth place prize and Unlimited Sips by Elizabeth Denholm won the $1,000 fifth-place prize.Baughman said she intends to use the $6,000 cash prize to grow her business's online presence and appear in more local farm and art markets throughout the year.

Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge awards The Refillery with $6,000 cash prize

An unknown suspect burglarized a local cleaning business yesterday, stole only the keys and the title for a light blue and silver 1997 Jaguar XJ four-door, and took off with the car parked outside.

Salina Police Department Capt. James Feldman said sometime between 4 a.m. and 2 p.m., Sunday, March 31, a suspect entered Fresh Look Cleaners at 820 E. Crawford Ave. without breaking into the building.

"Someone had entered into a storage area at the backside of the building. They [officers and staff] didn't see any forced entry," Feldman said. "We're not sure how they got in the building."

The suspect only stole the 1997 Jaguar's title, the vehicle's keys and the car itself. Feldman said the car was worth about $4,200.&nbsp;

Around 5 a.m., Monday, April 1, an officer located the 1997 Jaguar in the 700 block of S. 10th Street with its keys, but the vehicle title was still missing.

Feldman said there are no suspects, and SPD officers continue investigating the crime.

Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/eac36d43-733d-4172-97aa-f3d391e7b7f0">Local Taco Bell falls victim to alleged Bitcoin scam</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574271818216.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostAn unknown suspect burglarized a local cleaning business yesterday, stole only the keys and the title for a light blue and silver 1997 Jaguar XJ four-door, and took off with the car parked outside.Salina Police Department Capt. James Feldman said sometime between 4 a.m. and 2 p.m., Sunday, March 31, a suspect entered Fresh Look Cleaners at 820 E. Crawford Ave. without breaking into the building."Someone had entered into a storage area at the backside of the building. They [officers and staff] didn't see any forced entry," Feldman said. "We're not sure how they got in the building."The suspect only stole the 1997 Jaguar's title, the vehicle's keys and the car itself. Feldman said the car was worth about $4,200.&nbsp;Around 5 a.m., Monday, April 1, an officer located the 1997 Jaguar in the 700 block of S. 10th Street with its keys, but the vehicle title was still missing.Feldman said there are no suspects, and SPD officers continue investigating the crime.Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/eac36d43-733d-4172-97aa-f3d391e7b7f0">Local Taco Bell falls victim to alleged Bitcoin scam</a>

Jaguar stolen from local cleaners over the weekend

In the year's first three months, 16 structure fires have impacted businesses and families across Salina — leading the Salina Salvation Army staff to work overtime to help 12 families in town.

The Salvation Army assists families and individuals through their Emergency Disaster Services program with food, housing, clothing, and other programs after an emergency like a house fire.&nbsp;

Still, the staff faces another challenge besides helping so many families in such a short period.

"With our Christmas Kettles, we fell about $20,000 behind," said Salina Salvation Army Lieutenant Luke Hursh. "Because we fell $20,000 behind, and now we're having more fires, it affects our ability to help them as much as we want."

Last year, the Salina Salvation Army helped six families after a fire, so they have already doubled that this year.

A team consisting of Hursh, his wife, Capt. Patricia Hursh and two other staff members assist families and first responders during emergencies.&nbsp;

With the increased need this year, Hursh said the small team has continued but with a new plan moving forward — recruiting volunteers to staff an Emergency Disaster Services Team.

"We're trying to put together an Emergency Disaster Services Team of people on call who can get the training," Hursh said.

Volunteers can join the team by contacting or visiting the Salina Salvation Army, where Hursh said staff will give them the basic training, but volunteers can choose to do further training if requested.

Those who join the team could also travel with the Salina Salvation Army if called to another major disaster in the United States or beyond.

Beyond adding more Emergency Disaster Services Team staff, the Salina Salvation Army partnered with The Unreal Tour for a benefit concert in April to help remedy some lost funds from the Christmas Kettles.

"The benefit concert is hopefully going to help us raise those $20,000 plus some," Hursh said. "It's going to be money to help the community. It all goes directly back to the program. A lot of people don't realize that 86 cents of $1 goes to help programs, so that 14 cents is used for administrative costs."

Salvation Army staff looked for ways to raise more cash for their programs, especially with a higher demand this year, and The Unreal Tour happened to contact the organization.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/776b3aef-8759-46f3-8f96-5864b2a0c031">The Unreal Tour visits Salina in April for The Salvation Army of Salina benefit concert</a>

Hursh said they contacted him and his staff, asking if they would like to host the concert in Salina. Hursh then inquired if it could be a benefit concert, to which they agreed.

The tour will feature Christian artists Sanctus Real, Unspoken and JJ Weeks at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 5, at Tony's Pizza Events Center, 800 The Midway, Salina, Kan.

"This is going to help us not just with our Emergency Disaster Services, but it will help us with our feeding program, our character building program and our youth music program," Hursh said. "It would help us possibly start other programs that we want to do."

Interested attendees can find tickets for the concert at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.tonyspizzaeventscenter.com/">Tony's Pizza Events Center</a>&nbsp;box office or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ticketmaster.com/the-unreal-tour-salina-kansas-04-05-2024/event/20006036E01717C0">Ticketmaster.com</a>. Ticket prices are $23, $33 and $45 for VIP, which includes a meet and greet with the artists.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655324775700.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostIn the year's first three months, 16 structure fires have impacted businesses and families across Salina — leading the Salina Salvation Army staff to work overtime to help 12 families in town.The Salvation Army assists families and individuals through their Emergency Disaster Services program with food, housing, clothing, and other programs after an emergency like a house fire.&nbsp;Still, the staff faces another challenge besides helping so many families in such a short period."With our Christmas Kettles, we fell about $20,000 behind," said Salina Salvation Army Lieutenant Luke Hursh. "Because we fell $20,000 behind, and now we're having more fires, it affects our ability to help them as much as we want."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703438283078.jpeg" alt="Raymond Brown, a Salvation Army bell ringer, holds out his red Salvation Army bell during his shift on Friday, Dec. 22, at the Salina Central Mall. Photo by Olivia Bermgier" />
 <figcaption>Raymond Brown, a Salvation Army bell ringer, holds out his red Salvation Army bell during his shift on Friday, Dec. 22, at the Salina Central Mall. Photo by Olivia Bermgier</figcaption>
 </figure>Last year, the Salina Salvation Army helped six families after a fire, so they have already doubled that this year.A team consisting of Hursh, his wife, Capt. Patricia Hursh and two other staff members assist families and first responders during emergencies.&nbsp;With the increased need this year, Hursh said the small team has continued but with a new plan moving forward — recruiting volunteers to staff an Emergency Disaster Services Team."We're trying to put together an Emergency Disaster Services Team of people on call who can get the training," Hursh said.Volunteers can join the team by contacting or visiting the Salina Salvation Army, where Hursh said staff will give them the basic training, but volunteers can choose to do further training if requested.Those who join the team could also travel with the Salina Salvation Army if called to another major disaster in the United States or beyond.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710518833906.jpeg" alt="Unreal Tour. Graphic courtesy The Salvation Army of Salina" />
 <figcaption>Unreal Tour. Graphic courtesy The Salvation Army of Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>Beyond adding more Emergency Disaster Services Team staff, the Salina Salvation Army partnered with The Unreal Tour for a benefit concert in April to help remedy some lost funds from the Christmas Kettles."The benefit concert is hopefully going to help us raise those $20,000 plus some," Hursh said. "It's going to be money to help the community. It all goes directly back to the program. A lot of people don't realize that 86 cents of $1 goes to help programs, so that 14 cents is used for administrative costs."Salvation Army staff looked for ways to raise more cash for their programs, especially with a higher demand this year, and The Unreal Tour happened to contact the organization.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/776b3aef-8759-46f3-8f96-5864b2a0c031">The Unreal Tour visits Salina in April for The Salvation Army of Salina benefit concert</a>Hursh said they contacted him and his staff, asking if they would like to host the concert in Salina. Hursh then inquired if it could be a benefit concert, to which they agreed.The tour will feature Christian artists Sanctus Real, Unspoken and JJ Weeks at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 5, at Tony's Pizza Events Center, 800 The Midway, Salina, Kan."This is going to help us not just with our Emergency Disaster Services, but it will help us with our feeding program, our character building program and our youth music program," Hursh said. "It would help us possibly start other programs that we want to do."Interested attendees can find tickets for the concert at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.tonyspizzaeventscenter.com/">Tony's Pizza Events Center</a>&nbsp;box office or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ticketmaster.com/the-unreal-tour-salina-kansas-04-05-2024/event/20006036E01717C0">Ticketmaster.com</a>. Ticket prices are $23, $33 and $45 for VIP, which includes a meet and greet with the artists.Hursh said there are 800 regular tickets and 200 VIP tickets in total. On Monday, only 95 regular and 30 VIP tickets have sold for the concert.