By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

Surrounded by friends, family and coworkers, Bob Wege retired from Propane Central last Friday after a 26-year career at the company. Long before that, though, Wege started his career driving gas trucks almost half a century ago.

Before Wege started his quarter-century-long career at Propane Central, he began hauling propane in Manhattan for a different company in 1977.

Eventually, he and his family moved to the Salina area to work for a company that would become Propane Central.

"I've been hauling gas for 47 years," Wege said. "I do know it's been that many years, same job — the company's just got a different name."

At his retirement celebration, staff and family members surprised Wege with hamburgers, bratwursts, cake, flowers, a signed wooden plaque and a wooden Propane Central model truck with his name.

Wege's grandaughter, Scarlett Bigney, 9, his wife Shirley Wege, and his other immediate family members joined the celebration on Friday, joining the group photos next to the Propane Central truck.

"This was nice," Wege said. "I wasn't expecting that I had it coming."

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/bfae00cf-9d5c-4084-a675-5f85ba625793">Friends of the Salina Public Library will host first 50-Cent Book Sale this weekend</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710433904962.jpeg" alt="Bob Wege sits in the break room at Propane Central for his retirement ceremony on Friday, March 8, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Bob Wege sits in the break room at Propane Central for his retirement ceremony on Friday, March 8, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostSurrounded by friends, family and coworkers, Bob Wege retired from Propane Central last Friday after a 26-year career at the company. Long before that, though, Wege started his career driving gas trucks almost half a century ago.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710434015977.jpeg" alt="Bob Wege, right and his granddaughter, Scarlett Bigney, 9, left, pose in front of a Propane Central truck for Wege's retirement celebration on Friday, March 8, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Bob Wege, right and his granddaughter, Scarlett Bigney, 9, left, pose in front of a Propane Central truck for Wege's retirement celebration on Friday, March 8, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Before Wege started his quarter-century-long career at Propane Central, he began hauling propane in Manhattan for a different company in 1977.Eventually, he and his family moved to the Salina area to work for a company that would become Propane Central."I've been hauling gas for 47 years," Wege said. "I do know it's been that many years, same job — the company's just got a different name."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710434050811.jpeg" alt="The gifts to Bob Wege for his retirement celebration on Friday, March 8, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The gifts to Bob Wege for his retirement celebration on Friday, March 8, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>At his retirement celebration, staff and family members surprised Wege with hamburgers, bratwursts, cake, flowers, a signed wooden plaque and a wooden Propane Central model truck with his name.Wege's grandaughter, Scarlett Bigney, 9, his wife Shirley Wege, and his other immediate family members joined the celebration on Friday, joining the group photos next to the Propane Central truck.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710434095976.jpeg" alt="Bob Wege stands with staff from Propane Central in front of one of their hauling trucks on Friday, March 8, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Bob Wege stands with staff from Propane Central in front of one of their hauling trucks on Friday, March 8, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"This was nice," Wege said. "I wasn't expecting that I had it coming."READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/bfae00cf-9d5c-4084-a675-5f85ba625793">Friends of the Salina Public Library will host first 50-Cent Book Sale this weekend</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710434155409.jpeg" alt="Bob Wege poses in front of a Propane Central company truck with his immediate family members during his retirement celebration on Friday, March 8, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Bob Wege poses in front of a Propane Central company truck with his immediate family members during his retirement celebration on Friday, March 8, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>

Propane Central celebrates retirement for 26-year employee

A heavily clothed suspect allegedly broke into <a href="https://mattresshub.com/">The Mattress Hub</a> in town on Tuesday and stole a <a href="https://www.clover.com/">Clover</a> credit card machine after breaking a window to gain entry.

Salina Police Department Capt. James Feldman said on Tuesday, March 12, Mattress Hub employees at 2346 Planet Avenue called SPD around 10 a.m. to report a suspected burglary.

According to Feldman, staff arrived at the business Tuesday morning and found a broken window on the north side of the building and the Clover machine missing. 

"An employee arrived at approximately 9:45 that morning and found a window on the north side had been shattered," Feldman said. "It looks like, from what they can say from the video, a subject wearing all dark clothing, a hood and a face covering entered the business. Another video shows that the subject ran westbound away from the business."

The Clover machine was valued at $400, and the broken window caused $1,000 in damage. SPD officers continue to investigate the crime.

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

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/e75818b1-80eb-49fc-a472-5e13faca548b">Propane Central celebrates retirement for 26-year employee</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574569805735.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostA heavily clothed suspect allegedly broke into <a href="https://mattresshub.com/">The Mattress Hub</a> in town on Tuesday and stole a <a href="https://www.clover.com/">Clover</a> credit card machine after breaking a window to gain entry.Salina Police Department Capt. James Feldman said on Tuesday, March 12, Mattress Hub employees at 2346 Planet Avenue called SPD around 10 a.m. to report a suspected burglary.According to Feldman, staff arrived at the business Tuesday morning and found a broken window on the north side of the building and the Clover machine missing. "An employee arrived at approximately 9:45 that morning and found a window on the north side had been shattered," Feldman said. "It looks like, from what they can say from the video, a subject wearing all dark clothing, a hood and a face covering entered the business. Another video shows that the subject ran westbound away from the business."The Clover machine was valued at $400, and the broken window caused $1,000 in damage. SPD officers continue to investigate the crime.Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/e75818b1-80eb-49fc-a472-5e13faca548b">Propane Central celebrates retirement for 26-year employee</a>

Suspect steals credit card machine and breaks window at The Mattress Hub

The Salina Police Department SWAT team and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) High-Risk Warrant Team conducted five search warrants in central and west Salina yesterday and found multiple suspected drugs and illegal firearms.

SPD Capt. James Feldman said officers found 2,000 counterfeit pills during the operation. The teams sent them to KBI for further testing for their chemical components.

"This operation is a culmination of work by the I-70 I-135 Drug Task Force in conjunction with other law enforcement agencies," Feldman said. "The focus of the investigation was the distribution of fentanyl in and around Salina."

Feldman said during the search warrant operations, officers found other substances that they suspected were methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, THC wax and psilocybin mushrooms.

Officers also found multiple illegal firearms within the residences. The SPD Drug Task Force, SWAT team and KBI High-Risk Warrant Team are still investigating the searches.

"At the time, the investigation is still ongoing, and arrests are imminent," Feldman said. "The operation wasn't possible without the cooperation and assistance of residents of the Salina community."

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/bfae00cf-9d5c-4084-a675-5f85ba625793">Friends of the Salina Public Library will host first 50-Cent Book Sale this weekend</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581972960097.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostThe Salina Police Department SWAT team and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) High-Risk Warrant Team conducted five search warrants in central and west Salina yesterday and found multiple suspected drugs and illegal firearms.SPD Capt. James Feldman said officers found 2,000 counterfeit pills during the operation. The teams sent them to KBI for further testing for their chemical components."This operation is a culmination of work by the I-70 I-135 Drug Task Force in conjunction with other law enforcement agencies," Feldman said. "The focus of the investigation was the distribution of fentanyl in and around Salina."Feldman said during the search warrant operations, officers found other substances that they suspected were methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, THC wax and psilocybin mushrooms.Officers also found multiple illegal firearms within the residences. The SPD Drug Task Force, SWAT team and KBI High-Risk Warrant Team are still investigating the searches."At the time, the investigation is still ongoing, and arrests are imminent," Feldman said. "The operation wasn't possible without the cooperation and assistance of residents of the Salina community."Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/bfae00cf-9d5c-4084-a675-5f85ba625793">Friends of the Salina Public Library will host first 50-Cent Book Sale this weekend</a>

SPD and KBI conduct five search warrants, finds 2,000 counterfeit pills

The Friends of the Salina Public Library will host another book sale this weekend, but with a twist — all books and media will cost only 50 cents.

Attendees will have the chance to browse through the Friends of the SPL donated inventory in the lower levels of the library from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 16. 

SPL Head of Marketing Katie Zey said The Friends of the SPL regularly host book sales in the library. For this event, everything from the donated inventory, including books, CDs, movies, and other media, will be on sale for only 50 cents.

Zey said she posted a Facebook event on the SPL page [LINK], and many followers were interested in the new event.

"I think it says about 1,300 people have responded to the event, which is more than we've ever had respond to any of our events, ever," Zey said. "There's no limit to how much people can buy, and it includes all of the audio books, they have music, CDs, movies, books, anything that they [Friends of the SPL] have in their collection."

The Friends of the Library collects donations from community members and some books and media from the SPL. Still, any visitor can donate to the collection for the book sales.

Friends of the Library Board President Greta Kontas said the funds from each book sale usually have a program that the cash is for, and for the 50-Cent Book Sale, the money will help the library's summer reading programs.

"We would love to see a big turnout and to have people find something exciting to read," Kontas said. "We've got almost anything, any genre you'd want we have a sampling of."

Any visitor can participate in the book sale — Zey said attendees do not need a library card to purchase from the collection of donated media.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5c035236-8057-4520-af42-1a6c07aee2a3">UPDATED: Severe weather moving into Kansas, Salina at front of dangerous system</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701877207420.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy Friends of the Salina Library" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy Friends of the Salina Library</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostThe Friends of the Salina Public Library will host another book sale this weekend, but with a twist — all books and media will cost only 50 cents.Attendees will have the chance to browse through the Friends of the SPL donated inventory in the lower levels of the library from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 16. SPL Head of Marketing Katie Zey said The Friends of the SPL regularly host book sales in the library. For this event, everything from the donated inventory, including books, CDs, movies, and other media, will be on sale for only 50 cents.Zey said she posted a Facebook event on the SPL page [LINK], and many followers were interested in the new event."I think it says about 1,300 people have responded to the event, which is more than we've ever had respond to any of our events, ever," Zey said. "There's no limit to how much people can buy, and it includes all of the audio books, they have music, CDs, movies, books, anything that they [Friends of the SPL] have in their collection."The Friends of the Library collects donations from community members and some books and media from the SPL. Still, any visitor can donate to the collection for the book sales.Friends of the Library Board President Greta Kontas said the funds from each book sale usually have a program that the cash is for, and for the 50-Cent Book Sale, the money will help the library's summer reading programs."We would love to see a big turnout and to have people find something exciting to read," Kontas said. "We've got almost anything, any genre you'd want we have a sampling of."Any visitor can participate in the book sale — Zey said attendees do not need a library card to purchase from the collection of donated media.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5c035236-8057-4520-af42-1a6c07aee2a3">UPDATED: Severe weather moving into Kansas, Salina at front of dangerous system</a>

Friends of the Salina Public Library will host first 50-Cent Book Sale this weekend

UPDATED at 10:12 a.m., Wednesday, March 13, 2024

A significant weather system is set to develop around Salina today, which could bring strong winds, large hail and even a tornado.

Yesterday, the Wichita National Weather Service reported that some thunderstorms and rain would likely reach Salina. Still, with some updated models from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Storm Prediction Center, meteorologists and storm chasers are on high alert for today's system.

According to Wichita NWS Meteorologist Mickey McGuire, storms may develop along a warm front along the state's central region. Once it reaches Salina, it will likely intensify and travel across the eastern half of Kansas.

"I think after 4 p.m., we will see increasing chances for storms to develop along that warm front as we progress through the evening hours," McGuire said. "[Then the storms will] move north and east, so that puts the best chance for severe thunderstorms across northeast Kansas."

"Any location along that warm front will have a chance of seeing severe storms, large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes, which will also be possible with any storms that develop along that front."

With the looming potential for severe weather, McGuire encouraged residents to alter outdoor activities or plans and be aware of impending dangerous conditions.

Meteorologists at the Wichita NWS also advise that residents have two or more ways to receive weather information, such as a phone, television or weather radio, to stay safe.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/841d07ab-499c-4d86-a8d3-678b41ef13e4">EquiFest returns to Salina this week — a quick look at events and vendors</a>

Multiple storm systems will move through the state late tonight and tomorrow, with tomorrow bringing chances of damaging winds and hail.

According to the Wichita National Weather Service, far eastern Kansas may get a few showers this evening, and more of the east half of the state will see severe weather tomorrow.

"We'll see another system that kind of moves in right on the heels of this system tomorrow," said Wichita NWS Meteorologist Mickey McGuire. I think tomorrow's storm brings a little bit better chance of severe storms."

McGuire said although the systems will move through the state, many weather predictions show low probabilities for severe weather or widespread rain showers.

This doesn't rule out the threat of large hail, 60-mph wind gusts or tornadoes for this system.

"I think the main threat would be the potential for some large hail, maybe damaging winds with any severe storm that does develop," McGuire said.

McGuire encourages residents to make alternate plans for outdoor activities, especially for those in northern and northeast Kansas where there are greater chances for severe weather.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a006ac3d-4b97-455f-aaba-20b26f602339">AIM Center of Excellence celebrates first program graduation</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710342808235.jpeg" alt="There is a conditional risk for severe storms late this afternoon through early tonight across central and eastern Kansas. The main threats will be large hail to around 2 inches in diameter and wind gusts to 65 mph. A tornado will also be possible. Graphic courtesy Wichita National Weather Service" />
 <figcaption>There is a conditional risk for severe storms late this afternoon through early tonight across central and eastern Kansas. The main threats will be large hail to around 2 inches in diameter and wind gusts to 65 mph. A tornado will also be possible. Graphic courtesy Wichita National Weather Service</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATED at 10:12 a.m., Wednesday, March 13, 2024By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostA significant weather system is set to develop around Salina today, which could bring strong winds, large hail and even a tornado.Yesterday, the Wichita National Weather Service reported that some thunderstorms and rain would likely reach Salina. Still, with some updated models from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Storm Prediction Center, meteorologists and storm chasers are on high alert for today's system.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710342874734.jpeg" alt="Severe weather prediction, Wednesday, March 13, 2024. Graphic courtesy NOAA/NWS Storm Prediction Center" />
 <figcaption>Severe weather prediction, Wednesday, March 13, 2024. Graphic courtesy NOAA/NWS Storm Prediction Center</figcaption>
 </figure>According to Wichita NWS Meteorologist Mickey McGuire, storms may develop along a warm front along the state's central region. Once it reaches Salina, it will likely intensify and travel across the eastern half of Kansas."I think after 4 p.m., we will see increasing chances for storms to develop along that warm front as we progress through the evening hours," McGuire said. "[Then the storms will] move north and east, so that puts the best chance for severe thunderstorms across northeast Kansas.""Any location along that warm front will have a chance of seeing severe storms, large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes, which will also be possible with any storms that develop along that front."With the looming potential for severe weather, McGuire encouraged residents to alter outdoor activities or plans and be aware of impending dangerous conditions.Meteorologists at the Wichita NWS also advise that residents have two or more ways to receive weather information, such as a phone, television or weather radio, to stay safe.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/841d07ab-499c-4d86-a8d3-678b41ef13e4">EquiFest returns to Salina this week — a quick look at events and vendors</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710252943686.jpeg" alt="Severe storms are possible from 4 to 11 p.m. on Wednesday. The best chances will remain across northern and northeast Kansas with lower chances east of Interstate-135. Graphic courtesy Wichita National Weather Service" />
 <figcaption>Severe storms are possible from 4 to 11 p.m. on Wednesday. The best chances will remain across northern and northeast Kansas with lower chances east of Interstate-135. Graphic courtesy Wichita National Weather Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostMultiple storm systems will move through the state late tonight and tomorrow, with tomorrow bringing chances of damaging winds and hail.According to the Wichita National Weather Service, far eastern Kansas may get a few showers this evening, and more of the east half of the state will see severe weather tomorrow."We'll see another system that kind of moves in right on the heels of this system tomorrow," said Wichita NWS Meteorologist Mickey McGuire. I think tomorrow's storm brings a little bit better chance of severe storms."McGuire said although the systems will move through the state, many weather predictions show low probabilities for severe weather or widespread rain showers.This doesn't rule out the threat of large hail, 60-mph wind gusts or tornadoes for this system."I think the main threat would be the potential for some large hail, maybe damaging winds with any severe storm that does develop," McGuire said.McGuire encourages residents to make alternate plans for outdoor activities, especially for those in northern and northeast Kansas where there are greater chances for severe weather.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a006ac3d-4b97-455f-aaba-20b26f602339">AIM Center of Excellence celebrates first program graduation</a>

UPDATED: Severe weather moving into Kansas, Salina at front of dangerous system

A Salina resident led Salina Police Department officers on a high-speed chase onto I-135 Saturday evening until Kansas Highway Patrol troopers took over the chase. 

Around 5:15 p.m., Saturday, March 9, an SPD officer observed a black 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer speeding northbound in the 3800 block of South Ninth Street.

The officer then attempted to conduct a traffic stop with the driver. Instead, he pulled into the nearby Long MacArthur Ford Dealership and tried to speak with the officer from his vehicle.

"The driver began waving his arms and yelling out the window, but the officer couldn't understand what he was trying to say," said SPD Capt. James Feldman. "The vehicle driver made a U-turn in the parking lot, went back out on Ninth Street, and went northbound to Schilling."

Feldman said the officer followed the vehicle, which turned west onto Schilling Road and then onto Interstate 135, where it began speeding up.

The driver, later identified as 53-year-old Robert Webb, reached speeds of 75 to 100 mph on I-135, and from there, KHP troopers joined the chase.

"At mile marker 64 in McPherson County, McPherson County deputies successfully spiked the vehicle, causing damage to both passenger-side tires," Feldman said. "The driver continued, and they attempted to spike it again at mile marker 63, but he avoided the spikes."

After avoiding the spike trap at mile marker 63, the driver continued for another two miles until the Trailblazer left the roadway and crashed into a tree in the west ditch.

McPherson County Sheriff's deputies and the KHP troopers then arrested Webb and searched his vehicle, where they located methamphetamine, marijuana, and an open container of alcohol.

Law enforcement then returned Webb to Salina and requested charges for felony flee and elude, possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended, no proof of insurance, speeding, illegal vehicle tags, transporting an open container and no drug tax stamp.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574094885919.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostA Salina resident led Salina Police Department officers on a high-speed chase onto I-135 Saturday evening until Kansas Highway Patrol troopers took over the chase. Around 5:15 p.m., Saturday, March 9, an SPD officer observed a black 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer speeding northbound in the 3800 block of South Ninth Street.The officer then attempted to conduct a traffic stop with the driver. Instead, he pulled into the nearby Long MacArthur Ford Dealership and tried to speak with the officer from his vehicle."The driver began waving his arms and yelling out the window, but the officer couldn't understand what he was trying to say," said SPD Capt. James Feldman. "The vehicle driver made a U-turn in the parking lot, went back out on Ninth Street, and went northbound to Schilling."Feldman said the officer followed the vehicle, which turned west onto Schilling Road and then onto Interstate 135, where it began speeding up.The driver, later identified as 53-year-old Robert Webb, reached speeds of 75 to 100 mph on I-135, and from there, KHP troopers joined the chase."At mile marker 64 in McPherson County, McPherson County deputies successfully spiked the vehicle, causing damage to both passenger-side tires," Feldman said. "The driver continued, and they attempted to spike it again at mile marker 63, but he avoided the spikes."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710083327142.jpeg" alt="Webb, Robert Vincent" />
 <figcaption>Webb, Robert Vincent</figcaption>
 </figure>After avoiding the spike trap at mile marker 63, the driver continued for another two miles until the Trailblazer left the roadway and crashed into a tree in the west ditch.McPherson County Sheriff's deputies and the KHP troopers then arrested Webb and searched his vehicle, where they located methamphetamine, marijuana, and an open container of alcohol.Law enforcement then returned Webb to Salina and requested charges for felony flee and elude, possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended, no proof of insurance, speeding, illegal vehicle tags, transporting an open container and no drug tax stamp.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/841d07ab-499c-4d86-a8d3-678b41ef13e4">EquiFest returns to Salina this week — a quick look at events and vendors</a>

High-speed chase into McPherson County ends with driver striking tree

Under the fluorescent lights of Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600, the first nine Aviation Innovation and Maintenance, or AIM Center of Excellence students graduated from their inaugural class.

"Tonight, we're recognizing a new milestone," said Salina Airport Authority Executive Director Tim Rogers. "This achievement will lead them to new accomplishments."

Toward the end of the graduation ceremony, Rogers said he had the idea for a maintenance training program about a year ago. He aimed to create a program that would benefit the local aviation businesses by providing a training course for aviation maintenance.

Through careful planning with the AIM Center Steering Committee, this class is the first of six to graduate for the year.

Rogers, the Kansas Assistant Secretary of Commerce Mike Beene, and Kansas Department of Transportation Director of Aviation Ray Seif handed the certificates to graduates during the ceremony.

According to Rogers, Beene and Seif contributed to the lift-off of the AIM Center in town by assisting the program's creation. 

The AIM Steering Committee applied for a grant allowing the first group of students to attend the course for free.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/0e190734-6244-406a-bce5-9dc38e5c4bf1">Kansas Corporation Commission orders Sundowner, LLC owner to remove meter locks immediately</a>

Through the six-week program, AIM Center instructors taught various aspects of aviation maintenance, such as sheet metal work, painting, compositing various materials, electronics, and avionics.

One student, a Salina resident, Dinah Roth, joined the course because of her interest in aviation. Still, she had yet to decide if she wanted to follow the traditional pilot path or dive into the maintenance side of aviation.

"I was learning that you really become a mechanic and have a pilot license as a hobby, or you become a pilot and do the other as a hobby, so it was really pick one or the other," Roth said.

With the new certificate of course completion, Roth said she plans to begin conversations with local aviation centers like One Vision Aviation and Schilling Aviation Services.

"Five of the guys were in the class [from One Vision Aviation], and they made an excellent impression," Roth said. "If I could go hang out with these guys or work at One Vision that'd be cool with the big hangars, big planes, big jets."

Another AIM Center graduate, Benjamin Swanson, heard about the program while working at One Vision alongside his mother, Michelle Swanson, director of administration and finance for the Salina Airport Authority, encouraging him to try the course.

Swanson has worked as an aviation maintenance technician (AMT) for the past four years. Still, with various written and practical exams on the horizon, the small class provided critical skills for the next advancements.

"The hands-on experience will make it easier for the practical tests that we'll do with the examiner," Swanson said. "it was a small group of people, but the environment was good because there were a lot of guys from One Vision that I already know, so that made it better."

The AIM Center for Excellence will continue classes this spring with one more six-week course beginning on March 25. The summer will have two more classes, and AIM will finish its inaugural year of programs with two courses in the fall.

Rogers said the class size will remain under 25 students to keep the critical hands-on aspect of the course.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710179140025.jpeg" alt="Salina Airport Authority Executive Director Tim Rogers addresses the first class to graduate from the Aviation Innovation and Maintenance Center of Excellence, or AIM, on Thursday, March 7, at the Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina Airport Authority Executive Director Tim Rogers addresses the first class to graduate from the Aviation Innovation and Maintenance Center of Excellence, or AIM, on Thursday, March 7, at the Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostUnder the fluorescent lights of Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600, the first nine Aviation Innovation and Maintenance, or AIM Center of Excellence students graduated from their inaugural class."Tonight, we're recognizing a new milestone," said Salina Airport Authority Executive Director Tim Rogers. "This achievement will lead them to new accomplishments."Toward the end of the graduation ceremony, Rogers said he had the idea for a maintenance training program about a year ago. He aimed to create a program that would benefit the local aviation businesses by providing a training course for aviation maintenance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710179306625.jpeg" alt="The first class to graduate from the Aviation Innovation and Maintenance Center of Excellence, or AIM, poses in front of a CJ-4 jet on Thursday, March 7, in the Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The first class to graduate from the Aviation Innovation and Maintenance Center of Excellence, or AIM, poses in front of a CJ-4 jet on Thursday, March 7, in the Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Through careful planning with the AIM Center Steering Committee, this class is the first of six to graduate for the year.Rogers, the Kansas Assistant Secretary of Commerce Mike Beene, and Kansas Department of Transportation Director of Aviation Ray Seif handed the certificates to graduates during the ceremony.According to Rogers, Beene and Seif contributed to the lift-off of the AIM Center in town by assisting the program's creation. The AIM Steering Committee applied for a grant allowing the first group of students to attend the course for free.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/0e190734-6244-406a-bce5-9dc38e5c4bf1">Kansas Corporation Commission orders Sundowner, LLC owner to remove meter locks immediately</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710179405024.jpeg" alt="The first class of Aviation Innovation and Maintenance Center of Excellence, or AIM, created a final project that represented each week of the course during the graduation ceremony on Thursday, March 7, at the Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The first class of Aviation Innovation and Maintenance Center of Excellence, or AIM, created a final project that represented each week of the course during the graduation ceremony on Thursday, March 7, at the Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Through the six-week program, AIM Center instructors taught various aspects of aviation maintenance, such as sheet metal work, painting, compositing various materials, electronics, and avionics.One student, a Salina resident, Dinah Roth, joined the course because of her interest in aviation. Still, she had yet to decide if she wanted to follow the traditional pilot path or dive into the maintenance side of aviation."I was learning that you really become a mechanic and have a pilot license as a hobby, or you become a pilot and do the other as a hobby, so it was really pick one or the other," Roth said.With the new certificate of course completion, Roth said she plans to begin conversations with local aviation centers like One Vision Aviation and Schilling Aviation Services."Five of the guys were in the class [from One Vision Aviation], and they made an excellent impression," Roth said. "If I could go hang out with these guys or work at One Vision that'd be cool with the big hangars, big planes, big jets."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710179500208.jpeg" alt="Aviation Innovation and Maintenance Center of Excellence, or AIM, graduate Dinah Roth shakes hands with KDOT Director of Aviation Ray Seif on Thursday, March 7, at the Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Aviation Innovation and Maintenance Center of Excellence, or AIM, graduate Dinah Roth shakes hands with KDOT Director of Aviation Ray Seif on Thursday, March 7, at the Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Another AIM Center graduate, Benjamin Swanson, heard about the program while working at One Vision alongside his mother, Michelle Swanson, director of administration and finance for the Salina Airport Authority, encouraging him to try the course.Swanson has worked as an aviation maintenance technician (AMT) for the past four years. Still, with various written and practical exams on the horizon, the small class provided critical skills for the next advancements."The hands-on experience will make it easier for the practical tests that we'll do with the examiner," Swanson said. "it was a small group of people, but the environment was good because there were a lot of guys from One Vision that I already know, so that made it better."The AIM Center for Excellence will continue classes this spring with one more six-week course beginning on March 25. The summer will have two more classes, and AIM will finish its inaugural year of programs with two courses in the fall.Rogers said the class size will remain under 25 students to keep the critical hands-on aspect of the course.

AIM Center of Excellence celebrates first program graduation

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

Saline County Sheriff's Office deputies went to rural Saline County on Saturday about six miles south of Brookville for a 1974 International Harvester tractor on fire.

According to Saline County Capt. Jim Hughes, deputies reported to the 9100 block of South Sunnyside Road at about 2 p.m., Saturday, March 9, where Marquette firefighters had the blaze under control.

"We made contact with the vehicle owner, who said it was last driven on the seventh," Hughes said. "Unsure how the fire was started; however, it appeared that the fire originated in the cab of the tractor."

Hughes said deputies saw no evidence of a suspicious fire and that the blaze damaged no other property. Before fire crews arrived, the property owners moved other farm equipment away from the burning tractor.

The flames completely engulfed the tractor, leading it to a loss valued at $12,000. 

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5c035236-8057-4520-af42-1a6c07aee2a3">Multiple weather systems moving into Kansas bring chances of severe storms</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710257983517.jpeg" alt="The 1974 International Harvester tractor destroyed by flames on Saturday, March 9, in rural Saline County. Image courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>The 1974 International Harvester tractor destroyed by flames on Saturday, March 9, in rural Saline County. Image courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostSaline County Sheriff's Office deputies went to rural Saline County on Saturday about six miles south of Brookville for a 1974 International Harvester tractor on fire.According to Saline County Capt. Jim Hughes, deputies reported to the 9100 block of South Sunnyside Road at about 2 p.m., Saturday, March 9, where Marquette firefighters had the blaze under control.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710258008919.jpeg" alt="The 1974 International Harvester tractor destroyed by flames on Saturday, March 9, in rural Saline County. Image courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>The 1974 International Harvester tractor destroyed by flames on Saturday, March 9, in rural Saline County. Image courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>"We made contact with the vehicle owner, who said it was last driven on the seventh," Hughes said. "Unsure how the fire was started; however, it appeared that the fire originated in the cab of the tractor."Hughes said deputies saw no evidence of a suspicious fire and that the blaze damaged no other property. Before fire crews arrived, the property owners moved other farm equipment away from the burning tractor.The flames completely engulfed the tractor, leading it to a loss valued at $12,000. READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5c035236-8057-4520-af42-1a6c07aee2a3">Multiple weather systems moving into Kansas bring chances of severe storms</a>

50-year-old tractor destroyed by fire in rural Saline County

Tuesday, March 12, 2024, 9:00 a.m. 300 W Ash Room 107 Salina, Kansas 67401

Board of County Commissioners: Monte Shadwick - District 1 Robert Vidricksen II - District 2 Rodger Sparks - District 3 James Weese - District 4 Chairman, Joe Hay Jr. - District 5

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’s ADA Coordinator at (785) 309-5812 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:leamerm@salinecountyks.gov">leamerm@salinecountyks.gov</a>&nbsp;prior to the scheduled meeting or event to request accommodations.

Board of County Commissioners meetings are live-streamed on YouTube.<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125">For a library of past meetings, and to view this week's meeting, click here.&nbsp;</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016826196.jpeg" alt="Snow blankets the Salina City and Saline County building during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Snow blankets the Salina City and Saline County building during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTTuesday, March 12, 2024, 9:00 a.m. 300 W Ash Room 107 Salina, Kansas 67401Board of County Commissioners: Monte Shadwick - District 1 Robert Vidricksen II - District 2 Rodger Sparks - District 3 James Weese - District 4 Chairman, Joe Hay Jr. - District 5<h2>About the Meeting</h2>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’s ADA Coordinator at (785) 309-5812 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:leamerm@salinecountyks.gov">leamerm@salinecountyks.gov</a>&nbsp;prior to the scheduled meeting or event to request accommodations.Board of County Commissioners meetings are live-streamed on YouTube.<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125">For a library of past meetings, and to view this week's meeting, click here.&nbsp;</a><h2>Consent Agenda</h2><ol>
 <li>Approval of Tax Roll Adjustments</li><li>Approval of Accounts Payable</li><li>Approval of Public Forum Agenda</li><li>Approval of Payroll</li><li>Approval of Cereal Malt Beverage License #156516 - Charles Fairchild DBA Salina Speedway</li><li>Disposition of Property</li><li>Approval of Contract with Prairie Building Systems for Fire District 6 Station Addition</li>
 </ol><h2>Action Items</h2><ol>
 <li>2024 Transit Driver and Worker Appreciation Day Proclamation</li>
 </ol><h2>Presentations</h2><ol>
 <li>United Way Childcare Initiative Update</li>
 </ol><h2>Informational Items</h2><ol>
 <li>Financial Projection</li><li>County Administrator’s Update </li><li>Commissioner Comments </li><li>Announcements </li>
 </ol><h2>Concept Discussion</h2><ol>
 <li>Discussion of Priorities for 2025 Budget</li>
 </ol><h2>03/19/2024 Agenda Items</h2><ol>
 <li>Study Session</li>
 </ol><h2>03/25/2024 Agenda Items</h2><ol>
 <li>Presidential Primary Pre-Election Canvass of Votes&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><h2>03/26/2024 Agenda Items</h2><ol>
 <li>Community Corrections Update</li><li>Health Department Update</li><li>Bid Award for RFD #5 Roof</li><li>Bid Award for 2024 Bituminous Crack Seal</li><li>Mattson Road Vacation</li>
 </ol><h2>Adjournment</h2>

Saline County Board of Commissioners March 12 meeting agenda

Updated at 3:15 p.m. on Monday, March 11, 2024

A Salina resident riding a bicycle and a 2013 Chevrolet Avalanch pick-up truck crashed late last Thursday at the intersection of Otto and Hageman Avenues, leading officers to transport the bike rider to Salina Regional Health Center.

Salina Police Department Capt. James Feldman said at 9 p.m. on Thursday, March 7, 64-year-old Salina resident Bradley Pigorsch rode northbound on Hageman Avenue when his bike struck the left-front panel of 33-year-old resident Thanh Tran's Avalanche.

"Thanh was driving their Avalanche westbound on Otto and crossed Hageman," Feldman said. "Then the bike rider, Bradley Pigorsch, was northbound on Hageman crossing Otto when he struck the left front part of the vehicle."

Although the report states that Pigorsch "struck" the Avalanche, the detail is about where the bicycle struck the vehicle, not that Pigorsche struck the pick-up truck first in the crash.

Officers then transported Pigorsch to Salina Regional Health Center for non-life-threatening injuries, where staff treated him and recommended possible surgery due to his injuries.

According to Feldman, the truck driver did not suffer injuries. SPD officers are investigating the crash at this time.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/e14d3c58-9f73-41ab-b2ee-f6e1828f93fb">Salina Fire attacks house fire early Friday in east Salina</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574355645622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Updated at 3:15 p.m. on Monday, March 11, 2024By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostA Salina resident riding a bicycle and a 2013 Chevrolet Avalanch pick-up truck crashed late last Thursday at the intersection of Otto and Hageman Avenues, leading officers to transport the bike rider to Salina Regional Health Center.Salina Police Department Capt. James Feldman said at 9 p.m. on Thursday, March 7, 64-year-old Salina resident Bradley Pigorsch rode northbound on Hageman Avenue when his bike struck the left-front panel of 33-year-old resident Thanh Tran's Avalanche.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3251.9832743682937!2d-97.61946651671089!3d38.80516086961159!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bcc8a3d1c24973%3A0xfbd93123fc3d0826!2sHageman%20Ave%20%26%20Otto%20Ave%2C%20Salina%2C%20KS%2067401!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1709917248594!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>"Thanh was driving their Avalanche westbound on Otto and crossed Hageman," Feldman said. "Then the bike rider, Bradley Pigorsch, was northbound on Hageman crossing Otto when he struck the left front part of the vehicle."Although the report states that Pigorsch "struck" the Avalanche, the detail is about where the bicycle struck the vehicle, not that Pigorsche struck the pick-up truck first in the crash.Officers then transported Pigorsch to Salina Regional Health Center for non-life-threatening injuries, where staff treated him and recommended possible surgery due to his injuries.According to Feldman, the truck driver did not suffer injuries. SPD officers are investigating the crash at this time.Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/e14d3c58-9f73-41ab-b2ee-f6e1828f93fb">Salina Fire attacks house fire early Friday in east Salina</a>

UPDATED: Bicycle and truck crash in Salina — cyclist sent to hospital for injuries

A senior Salina resident fell victim to an email scam last week, which cost the citizen $11,000 in Bitcoin and various gift cards.

On Monday, March 4, an alleged scammer posing as Norton LifeLock emailed a 72-year-old Salina man to tell him his subscription was renewing and the company would charge his account for $450.

According to Salina Police Department Capt. James Feldman, the victim didn't want to renew the subscription, so he called the number provided in the email.

"He [the victim] stated while he was on the computer, they said they were supposed to put $100 into his account," Feldman said. "He was watching the computer, and his bank account did indeed show a deposit, but it showed a $10,000 deposit."

Feldman said the suspect told the victim that it was a mistake and then threatened the victim, stating if the victim didn't return the cash, authorities may consider it fraud.

Now concerned, Feldman said the resident followed the alleged scammers' instructions and withdrew $8,000 from his bank account to transfer Bitcoin to the company. The victim also purchased $3,000 in gift cards to make up the rest of the cash, totaling $11,000.

The victim sent the cash to the scammers and contacted SPD about the scam on Thursday, March 7. 

"We ask everybody, if something like this happens and people put extra money into your bank account, just go to your bank, talk with your bank, and they will take care of it," Feldman said. "You don't need to do anything."

SPD is still investigating the crime. Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/df1b8a0b-f725-4e8d-b0b2-66d87796bd64">Spring ahead of schedule in Kansas — climatologists uncertain for severe weather season</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574355645622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostA senior Salina resident fell victim to an email scam last week, which cost the citizen $11,000 in Bitcoin and various gift cards.On Monday, March 4, an alleged scammer posing as Norton LifeLock emailed a 72-year-old Salina man to tell him his subscription was renewing and the company would charge his account for $450.According to Salina Police Department Capt. James Feldman, the victim didn't want to renew the subscription, so he called the number provided in the email."He [the victim] stated while he was on the computer, they said they were supposed to put $100 into his account," Feldman said. "He was watching the computer, and his bank account did indeed show a deposit, but it showed a $10,000 deposit."Feldman said the suspect told the victim that it was a mistake and then threatened the victim, stating if the victim didn't return the cash, authorities may consider it fraud.Now concerned, Feldman said the resident followed the alleged scammers' instructions and withdrew $8,000 from his bank account to transfer Bitcoin to the company. The victim also purchased $3,000 in gift cards to make up the rest of the cash, totaling $11,000.The victim sent the cash to the scammers and contacted SPD about the scam on Thursday, March 7. "We ask everybody, if something like this happens and people put extra money into your bank account, just go to your bank, talk with your bank, and they will take care of it," Feldman said. "You don't need to do anything."SPD is still investigating the crime. Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/df1b8a0b-f725-4e8d-b0b2-66d87796bd64">Spring ahead of schedule in Kansas — climatologists uncertain for severe weather season</a>

Email scam posing as Norton LifeLock steals $11,000 from Salina resident

Most Kansans understand that March usually brings spring closer to the end of the month, but with record-setting warm temperatures in February, spring has arrived for most residents.

Climatologists in and around Kansas also agree that this year is different for most of the country, with the <a href="https://www.weather.gov/fwd/basics">El Niño-Southern Oscillation</a>, or ENSO, cycle transitioning throughout spring and into summer.

The ENSO cycle has two phases that impact sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean — El Niño, the ENSO warm phase, and La Niña, the ENSO cold phase.&nbsp;

The cycle transitioned from a three-year intense La Niña phase into a robust El Niño late last year, but climatologists see a transition to a neutral phase into a La Niña for the summer.

"This winter played out like a classic El Niño. We were much above normal [temperatures] and had above-normal precipitation—that's the hallmark of El Niño," said K-State Research and Extension Assistant State Climatologist Matthew Sittel. The problem this time of year is that the signal is less obvious."

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/35349d6a-eaa2-422b-976d-f0587f19c3bc">Salina broke an 1896 record on Feb. 26</a>, with the Salina Regional Airport reporting 78 degrees in the afternoon. The drought also improved, with many areas of western Kansas seeing soaking rainfall and inches of snow throughout the 2023-2024 winter.

ENSO cycles impact Kansas the most in winter, so as spring rolls into summer and El Niño switches to neutral and later to La Niña, its effects will not be as noticeable.

LISTEN: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/2635c9ac-0165-4c8c-8ad1-29a61b4acb62">🎙King in the Community: BSL and sign code, Salina City Manager Mike Schrage</a>

As the cycle transitions through the front half of 2024, Kansas weather will still see some impacts, particularly during the severe weather season.

"Coming out of El Niño, going into neutral, especially heading into severe weather season, it can create some uncertainty," said High Plains Regional Climate Center Climatologist Gannon Rush. "I looked up some literature about scenarios like this where it's transitioning from one to the neutral back to the other, and it did hint toward a not stronger, but more active severe season, particularly for hail and tornadoes."&nbsp;

Though past years with similar conditions saw more intense storm seasons, more tornadoes and hail are never guaranteed.

Wichita <a href="https://www.weather.gov/">National Weather Service</a>, or NWS, Meteorologist Robb Lawson said Kansas will see severe weather regardless of the ENSO cycle. Still, while the La Niña cycle held in the Pacific, Kansas saw a below-normal rate of tornadoes in the last several years.

"Some areas of the country get more active in a given year, and it just moves around," Lawson said. "Eventually, it will return to where we're going to be above normal for tornadoes. It's been relatively quiet for the last several years, but eventually, it will change, and we don't know when."

Meteorologists focus primarily on short weather outlooks, air moisture levels, wind speeds, and atmospheric instability. These factors impact weather forecasts and change regularly in the days leading up to a significant weather event.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/09dc28b7-e3f5-48b7-a7ce-b6180532097a">Storm Fury on the Plains presents critical storm safety information</a>

Rush said many climate predictions see chances for above-normal precipitation in Kansas for the beginning of spring from March to early or mid-April.

However, late spring and early summer are less promising for precipitation in the state. Many climate models show a toss-up in the early summertime for rainfall, and when La Niña takes over, it will likely turn dry again for the later half of the year.

"There's not a strong signal on how they affect temperature and precipitation during the summer," Rush said. "As we've seen in the past, the triple dip in La Niña was very dry. The drought was very prevalent in Kansas, specifically in central and western Kansas, and this year it's sort of signaling that kind of return of a pattern which is probably not what people want to hear."

The recent conditions also have led to an early spring for many states, with the <a href="https://www.usanpn.org/data/maps/spring">National Phenology Network</a> reporting the earliest spring on record for parts of northern Kansas.

Climatologists from around the globe work to gather data for varying models, but none are entirely accurate in predictions.&nbsp;

Lawson said weather on all scales is unpredictable, but historical data and taking a critical look at weather conditions allow residents to better prepare for dangerous weather situations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709761322589.jpeg" alt="The seasonal precipitation outlook from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, for March, April and May. Graphic courtesy NOAA Climate Prediction Center" />
 <figcaption>The seasonal precipitation outlook from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, for March, April and May. Graphic courtesy NOAA Climate Prediction Center</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostMost Kansans understand that March usually brings spring closer to the end of the month, but with record-setting warm temperatures in February, spring has arrived for most residents.Climatologists in and around Kansas also agree that this year is different for most of the country, with the <a href="https://www.weather.gov/fwd/basics">El Niño-Southern Oscillation</a>, or ENSO, cycle transitioning throughout spring and into summer.The ENSO cycle has two phases that impact sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean — El Niño, the ENSO warm phase, and La Niña, the ENSO cold phase.&nbsp;The cycle transitioned from a three-year intense La Niña phase into a robust El Niño late last year, but climatologists see a transition to a neutral phase into a La Niña for the summer."This winter played out like a classic El Niño. We were much above normal [temperatures] and had above-normal precipitation—that's the hallmark of El Niño," said K-State Research and Extension Assistant State Climatologist Matthew Sittel. The problem this time of year is that the signal is less obvious."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709761419055.png" alt="The Kansas Drought monitor from February 27, 2024. Graphic courtesy U.S. Drought Monitor" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Drought monitor from February 27, 2024. Graphic courtesy U.S. Drought Monitor</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/35349d6a-eaa2-422b-976d-f0587f19c3bc">Salina broke an 1896 record on Feb. 26</a>, with the Salina Regional Airport reporting 78 degrees in the afternoon. The drought also improved, with many areas of western Kansas seeing soaking rainfall and inches of snow throughout the 2023-2024 winter.ENSO cycles impact Kansas the most in winter, so as spring rolls into summer and El Niño switches to neutral and later to La Niña, its effects will not be as noticeable.LISTEN: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/2635c9ac-0165-4c8c-8ad1-29a61b4acb62">🎙King in the Community: BSL and sign code, Salina City Manager Mike Schrage</a>As the cycle transitions through the front half of 2024, Kansas weather will still see some impacts, particularly during the severe weather season."Coming out of El Niño, going into neutral, especially heading into severe weather season, it can create some uncertainty," said High Plains Regional Climate Center Climatologist Gannon Rush. "I looked up some literature about scenarios like this where it's transitioning from one to the neutral back to the other, and it did hint toward a not stronger, but more active severe season, particularly for hail and tornadoes."&nbsp;Though past years with similar conditions saw more intense storm seasons, more tornadoes and hail are never guaranteed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709761594721.jpeg" alt="The seasonal temperature outlook from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, for March, April and May.&nbsp;Graphic courtesy NOAA Climate Prediction Center" />
 <figcaption>The seasonal temperature outlook from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, for March, April and May.&nbsp;Graphic courtesy NOAA Climate Prediction Center</figcaption>
 </figure>Wichita <a href="https://www.weather.gov/">National Weather Service</a>, or NWS, Meteorologist Robb Lawson said Kansas will see severe weather regardless of the ENSO cycle. Still, while the La Niña cycle held in the Pacific, Kansas saw a below-normal rate of tornadoes in the last several years."Some areas of the country get more active in a given year, and it just moves around," Lawson said. "Eventually, it will return to where we're going to be above normal for tornadoes. It's been relatively quiet for the last several years, but eventually, it will change, and we don't know when."Meteorologists focus primarily on short weather outlooks, air moisture levels, wind speeds, and atmospheric instability. These factors impact weather forecasts and change regularly in the days leading up to a significant weather event.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/09dc28b7-e3f5-48b7-a7ce-b6180532097a">Storm Fury on the Plains presents critical storm safety information</a><h2>Beyond severe weather</h2>Rush said many climate predictions see chances for above-normal precipitation in Kansas for the beginning of spring from March to early or mid-April.However, late spring and early summer are less promising for precipitation in the state. Many climate models show a toss-up in the early summertime for rainfall, and when La Niña takes over, it will likely turn dry again for the later half of the year."There's not a strong signal on how they affect temperature and precipitation during the summer," Rush said. "As we've seen in the past, the triple dip in La Niña was very dry. The drought was very prevalent in Kansas, specifically in central and western Kansas, and this year it's sort of signaling that kind of return of a pattern which is probably not what people want to hear."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709761706136.png" alt="The Spring Leaf Index is based on heat accumulation and may have less relevance in water-limited systems like California and the Southwest. Precipitation may play a larger role in the phenology of plants in these areas. Graphic courtesy National Phenology Network " />
 <figcaption>The Spring Leaf Index is based on heat accumulation and may have less relevance in water-limited systems like California and the Southwest. Precipitation may play a larger role in the phenology of plants in these areas. Graphic courtesy National Phenology Network </figcaption>
 </figure>The recent conditions also have led to an early spring for many states, with the <a href="https://www.usanpn.org/data/maps/spring">National Phenology Network</a> reporting the earliest spring on record for parts of northern Kansas.Climatologists from around the globe work to gather data for varying models, but none are entirely accurate in predictions.&nbsp;Lawson said weather on all scales is unpredictable, but historical data and taking a critical look at weather conditions allow residents to better prepare for dangerous weather situations.

Spring ahead of schedule in Kansas — climatologists uncertain for severe weather season

At Salina Public Schools (SPS), if a tornado warning begins during the school day, students and staff will take refuge in their building’s storm shelter. Once they relocate to the storm shelters, exterior doors of the school building may be locked and entry into the building is not guaranteed.

When a tornado warning has been announced, the district encourages parents to seek shelter and to wait until after the warning has been lifted before coming to the school. The district will use the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd305.com/departments/public_information/mass_notification" target="_blank">School Messenger rapid notification system</a>&nbsp;to update parents by text, email and phone.

During tornado warnings, school buses will arrive at the nearest school where students will take cover in that building's storm shelter. Once emergency officials have issued an “all clear,” bus routes will resume and students will be returned safely home. 

These&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd305.com/for_parents/spring_weather_safety" target="_blank">procedures and information about spring weather safety are on the district website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694639848087.jpeg" alt="USD 305 Salina Public Schools District Office Building. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>USD 305 Salina Public Schools District Office Building. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedAt Salina Public Schools (SPS), if a tornado warning begins during the school day, students and staff will take refuge in their building’s storm shelter. Once they relocate to the storm shelters, exterior doors of the school building may be locked and entry into the building is not guaranteed.When a tornado warning has been announced, the district encourages parents to seek shelter and to wait until after the warning has been lifted before coming to the school. The district will use the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd305.com/departments/public_information/mass_notification" target="_blank">School Messenger rapid notification system</a>&nbsp;to update parents by text, email and phone.During tornado warnings, school buses will arrive at the nearest school where students will take cover in that building's storm shelter. Once emergency officials have issued an “all clear,” bus routes will resume and students will be returned safely home. These&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd305.com/for_parents/spring_weather_safety" target="_blank">procedures and information about spring weather safety are on the district website</a>.<h2>Additional Tornado Terminology</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709739511590.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy NOAA" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy NOAA</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709739540841.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy NOAA" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy NOAA</figcaption>
 </figure>

Salina Public Schools prepare for severe weather

In an executive session Thursday morning, Salina City Commissioners identified the special legal counsel who will represent the city in the Cozy Inn v. City of Salina federal lawsuit.&nbsp;

In a unanimous decision, city commissioners agreed to authorize the city manager, Mike Schrage, to engage the law firm of <a href="https://www.fwlaw.com/">Fairfield and Woods P.C</a>. of Denver, Colorado as the legal defense counsel in the case of the Cozy Inn v. City of Salina.&nbsp;

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/fc7ed532-a1ba-46b6-85c3-4ed867abb15a">Iconic restaurant, The Cozy Inn, sues Salina over right to paint a one-of-a-kind mural</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016826196.jpeg" alt="Snow blankets the Salina City and Saline County building during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Snow blankets the Salina City and Saline County building during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTIn an executive session Thursday morning, Salina City Commissioners identified the special legal counsel who will represent the city in the Cozy Inn v. City of Salina federal lawsuit.&nbsp;In a unanimous decision, city commissioners agreed to authorize the city manager, Mike Schrage, to engage the law firm of <a href="https://www.fwlaw.com/">Fairfield and Woods P.C</a>. of Denver, Colorado as the legal defense counsel in the case of the Cozy Inn v. City of Salina.&nbsp;READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/fc7ed532-a1ba-46b6-85c3-4ed867abb15a">Iconic restaurant, The Cozy Inn, sues Salina over right to paint a one-of-a-kind mural</a>

UPDATED: City commission names legal defense counsel for Cozy Inn vs. City of Salina

&nbsp;In its 40th year, the 2024 Salina Spring Poetry Series features a lineup of accomplished poets who will read in downtown Salina. In-person readings will occur at 7 pm on Tuesdays in April at Red Fern Booksellers (106 S Santa Fe Ave).&nbsp;

The series is sponsored by Salina Arts &amp; Humanities and was curated by Traci Brimhall, Kansas Poet Laureate. Brimhall selected poets with a broad range of perspectives including those of a spoken word poet, a poet whose work is centered on the body, trauma, and the pharmaceutical industry, and the founder of the Salina Spring Poetry Series. Admission to each reading will be $5 cash at the door and free for students with ID.&nbsp;

“Salina Arts &amp; Humanities has been honored to present poetry to Salina over the last forty years,” said Brad Anderson, Executive Director of Salina Arts &amp; Humanities. “Over the decades Salina has been enriched through the diversity of voices that explore our sense of place and reflect the human spirit.”&nbsp;

“It’s so incredible to be a part of celebrating 40 years of this series in Salina,” says Brimhall. “I'm so grateful for the celebration of different voices in Kansas poetry, and I'm so glad that this year's anniversary happens when there are five Tuesday's in the month, so we can hear even more great poems.”&nbsp;

The lineup of poets for the 2024 Salina Poetry Series includes:&nbsp;

Cash Hollistah is a national hip-hop recording artist, musician, spoken word poet, arts educator, and community activist based in Salina, Kansas. Hollistah's musical projects, "#cashmob." (2016) &amp; "#cashmob. 2" (2017), and live performances have earned him spots on high-profile stages, notably South by Southwest (SXSW), and billing with acts such as Common, Shaggy, Kirk Franklin, and T.I. Hollistah also founded/hosted the former poetry series, "ONE MIC", and occasionally teaches "Poetry &amp; Hip-Hop" specialty classes to students in central Kansas. Currently, Hollistah sits on the board of directors of the Kansas Music Hall of Fame. Cash Hollistah performs Tuesday, April 2, at 7 pm at Red Fern Booksellers (106 S Santa Fe Ave).&nbsp;

Hadara Bar-Nadav is an NEA fellow and award-winning author of several books of poetry, among them The Animal Is Chemical, The New Nudity, Lullaby (with Exit Sign), The Frame Called Ruin, and A Glass of Milk to Kiss Goodnight, as well as the chapbooks Fountain and Furnace and Show Me Yours. She is also co-author with Michelle Boisseau of the best-selling textbook Writing Poems, 8th ed. Her poems have appeared in The American Poetry Review, The Believer, Kenyon Review, The New Republic, Ploughshares, Poetry, Tin House, and elsewhere. Hadara is a Professor of English and teaches in the MFA program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Bar-Nadav reads Tuesday, April 9, at 7 pm at Red Fern Booksellers (106 S Santa Fe Ave).&nbsp;

Laura Lee Washburn is a University Professor, the Director of Creative Writing at Pittsburg State University in Kansas, the author of The Book of Stolen Images (Meadowlark) which was awarded the Nelson Book Award from the Kansas Authors Club, This Good Warm Place: 10th Anniversary Expanded Edition (March Street) and Watching the Contortionists (Palanquin Chapbook Prize), and the Editor-in-Chief of Poetry Cooperative/Heartland: Poetry of Love, Resistance, and Solidarity. Her book Arteries is forthcoming this May. Harbor Review’s Washburn Prize is named in her honor. Washburn reads Tuesday, April 16, at 7 pm at Ad Red Fern Booksellers (106 S Santa Fe Ave).&nbsp;

Bradford Tice is the author of two books of poetry: Rare Earth (New Rivers Press, 2013), which was named the winner of the 2011 Many Voices Project and a 2014 Debut-litzer finalist, and What the Night Numbered (Trio House Press, 2015), winner of the 2014 Trio Award. His poetry and fiction have appeared in such periodicals as The Atlantic Monthly, North American Review, The American Scholar, Epoch, as well as in Best American Short Stories 2008. His poetry was also selected as the winner of Prairie Schooner’s 2009 Edward Stanley Award. He currently teaches at Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln. Tice reads Tuesday, April 23, at 7 pm at Red Fern Booksellers (106 S Santa Fe Ave).&nbsp;

In the decades since Patricia Traxler moved to Salina from San Diego, she has been active in the cultural life of the city. The founder and longtime director of Salina's Spring Poetry Series, she also taught at Kansas Wesleyan University for more than three decades. Traxler is the author of four volumes of poetry (most recently, Naming the Fires); a novel, Blood; and a short-story collection, In the Skin. She is currently at work on a book of essays, Don't Ask Me, and a volume of her collected poems, as yet untitled. Traxler reads Tuesday, April 30, at 7 pm at Red Fern Booksellers (106 S Santa Fe Ave).&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709829968117.jpeg" alt="The entryway of Red Fern Booksellers in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The entryway of Red Fern Booksellers in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted&nbsp;In its 40th year, the 2024 Salina Spring Poetry Series features a lineup of accomplished poets who will read in downtown Salina. In-person readings will occur at 7 pm on Tuesdays in April at Red Fern Booksellers (106 S Santa Fe Ave).&nbsp;The series is sponsored by Salina Arts &amp; Humanities and was curated by Traci Brimhall, Kansas Poet Laureate. Brimhall selected poets with a broad range of perspectives including those of a spoken word poet, a poet whose work is centered on the body, trauma, and the pharmaceutical industry, and the founder of the Salina Spring Poetry Series. Admission to each reading will be $5 cash at the door and free for students with ID.&nbsp;“Salina Arts &amp; Humanities has been honored to present poetry to Salina over the last forty years,” said Brad Anderson, Executive Director of Salina Arts &amp; Humanities. “Over the decades Salina has been enriched through the diversity of voices that explore our sense of place and reflect the human spirit.”&nbsp;“It’s so incredible to be a part of celebrating 40 years of this series in Salina,” says Brimhall. “I'm so grateful for the celebration of different voices in Kansas poetry, and I'm so glad that this year's anniversary happens when there are five Tuesday's in the month, so we can hear even more great poems.”&nbsp;<h2>The lineup of poets for the 2024 Salina Poetry Series includes:&nbsp;</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709830033668.jpeg" alt="Cash Hollistah. Image courtesy Salina Arts and Humanities" />
 <figcaption>Cash Hollistah. Image courtesy Salina Arts and Humanities</figcaption>
 </figure>Cash Hollistah is a national hip-hop recording artist, musician, spoken word poet, arts educator, and community activist based in Salina, Kansas. Hollistah's musical projects, "#cashmob." (2016) &amp; "#cashmob. 2" (2017), and live performances have earned him spots on high-profile stages, notably South by Southwest (SXSW), and billing with acts such as Common, Shaggy, Kirk Franklin, and T.I. Hollistah also founded/hosted the former poetry series, "ONE MIC", and occasionally teaches "Poetry &amp; Hip-Hop" specialty classes to students in central Kansas. Currently, Hollistah sits on the board of directors of the Kansas Music Hall of Fame. Cash Hollistah performs Tuesday, April 2, at 7 pm at Red Fern Booksellers (106 S Santa Fe Ave).&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709830080168.jpeg" alt="Hadara Bar-Nadav.&nbsp;Image courtesy Salina Arts and Humanities" />
 <figcaption>Hadara Bar-Nadav.&nbsp;Image courtesy Salina Arts and Humanities</figcaption>
 </figure>Hadara Bar-Nadav is an NEA fellow and award-winning author of several books of poetry, among them The Animal Is Chemical, The New Nudity, Lullaby (with Exit Sign), The Frame Called Ruin, and A Glass of Milk to Kiss Goodnight, as well as the chapbooks Fountain and Furnace and Show Me Yours. She is also co-author with Michelle Boisseau of the best-selling textbook Writing Poems, 8th ed. Her poems have appeared in The American Poetry Review, The Believer, Kenyon Review, The New Republic, Ploughshares, Poetry, Tin House, and elsewhere. Hadara is a Professor of English and teaches in the MFA program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Bar-Nadav reads Tuesday, April 9, at 7 pm at Red Fern Booksellers (106 S Santa Fe Ave).&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709830136384.jpeg" alt="Laura Lee Washburn. Image courtesy Salina Arts and Humanities" />
 <figcaption>Laura Lee Washburn. Image courtesy Salina Arts and Humanities</figcaption>
 </figure>Laura Lee Washburn is a University Professor, the Director of Creative Writing at Pittsburg State University in Kansas, the author of The Book of Stolen Images (Meadowlark) which was awarded the Nelson Book Award from the Kansas Authors Club, This Good Warm Place: 10th Anniversary Expanded Edition (March Street) and Watching the Contortionists (Palanquin Chapbook Prize), and the Editor-in-Chief of Poetry Cooperative/Heartland: Poetry of Love, Resistance, and Solidarity. Her book Arteries is forthcoming this May. Harbor Review’s Washburn Prize is named in her honor. Washburn reads Tuesday, April 16, at 7 pm at Ad Red Fern Booksellers (106 S Santa Fe Ave).&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709830181984.jpeg" alt="Bradford Tice. Image courtesy Salina Arts and Humanities" />
 <figcaption>Bradford Tice. Image courtesy Salina Arts and Humanities</figcaption>
 </figure>Bradford Tice is the author of two books of poetry: Rare Earth (New Rivers Press, 2013), which was named the winner of the 2011 Many Voices Project and a 2014 Debut-litzer finalist, and What the Night Numbered (Trio House Press, 2015), winner of the 2014 Trio Award. His poetry and fiction have appeared in such periodicals as The Atlantic Monthly, North American Review, The American Scholar, Epoch, as well as in Best American Short Stories 2008. His poetry was also selected as the winner of Prairie Schooner’s 2009 Edward Stanley Award. He currently teaches at Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln. Tice reads Tuesday, April 23, at 7 pm at Red Fern Booksellers (106 S Santa Fe Ave).&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709830208005.jpeg" alt="Patricia Traxler. Image courtesy Salina Arts and Humanities" />
 <figcaption>Patricia Traxler. Image courtesy Salina Arts and Humanities</figcaption>
 </figure>In the decades since Patricia Traxler moved to Salina from San Diego, she has been active in the cultural life of the city. The founder and longtime director of Salina's Spring Poetry Series, she also taught at Kansas Wesleyan University for more than three decades. Traxler is the author of four volumes of poetry (most recently, Naming the Fires); a novel, Blood; and a short-story collection, In the Skin. She is currently at work on a book of essays, Don't Ask Me, and a volume of her collected poems, as yet untitled. Traxler reads Tuesday, April 30, at 7 pm at Red Fern Booksellers (106 S Santa Fe Ave).&nbsp;

2024 Salina Spring Poetry Series announced for 40th anniversary

Two vehicles crashed around noon on Wednesday, March 6, at the intersection of Wilson and Sherman Streets, turning one upside down on its top.

According to Salina Police Department Patrol Officer Bri Kuhlman, the wreck did not injure either driver seriously, with only on-site medical treatment needed.

The upside-down car in the crash needed the assistance of a towing company to move from the crash scene since it was upside down after the wreck.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/2bde92f0-aba8-4f51-bb7f-5506e49c9a2e">Teachers of the Year recognized at Salina Public Schools board meeting</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709752722909.jpeg" alt="Salina Police Department staff assisted in the cleanup of a wreck on Wednesday, March 6, at the intersection of Wilson and Sherman Streets in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina Police Department staff assisted in the cleanup of a wreck on Wednesday, March 6, at the intersection of Wilson and Sherman Streets in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostTwo vehicles crashed around noon on Wednesday, March 6, at the intersection of Wilson and Sherman Streets, turning one upside down on its top.According to Salina Police Department Patrol Officer Bri Kuhlman, the wreck did not injure either driver seriously, with only on-site medical treatment needed.The upside-down car in the crash needed the assistance of a towing company to move from the crash scene since it was upside down after the wreck.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/2bde92f0-aba8-4f51-bb7f-5506e49c9a2e">Teachers of the Year recognized at Salina Public Schools board meeting</a>

Two-vehicle crash in Salina, no driver injured

Salina Crossroads Marathon organizers announced on Monday that Team Take Down, an African American running club with runners in all fifty states as well as other countries, has selected the Salina Crossroads Marathon as its 2024 USA Meetup Race.

In 2022, Daniel Craig, Co-Race Director of the Salina Crossroads Marathon, began developing relationships with more than 600 local running clubs, including large national clubs and smaller local clubs.

 Many of the runners on Team Take Down have a goal of running a half marathon or marathon in all fifty states and reaching that goal is easier when you have others to run with. Each year Team Take Down selects one race in the USA and one out of the country and put a call out to all their members. They typically have 100 or more participants in the marathon and up to 200 or more participants in the half marathon.

 “We are excited to welcome Team Take Down to the Salina Crossroads Marathon. We appreciate the opportunity to help support their efforts to bring greater representation and diversity to the sport of running. We look forward to working with Team Take Down to make the Salina Crossroads Marathon an amazing experience for their runners,” said Co-Race Director Daniel Craig.

The Salina Crossroads Marathon is excited to have easily surpassed their challenge goal of 2,000 registered runners by March 31. There are currently 2,409 runners registered from 45 states and 4 different countries. Even though the challenge goal has been met, the Salina Crossroads Marathon is offering steeply discounted entries through March 31. 

“For a third-year marathon having a national running club select you as their yearly meetup race is amazing. It is a tribute to the amazing support we have received from the City of Salina, Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, Salina Downtown Inc., our more than 50 sponsors including Vortex Companies our Title Sponsor, and the community of Salina.”

The cost to register prior to March 31 for any of the seven events (marathon, half marathon, half-mile kids fun run, 5k run, 5k walk, half marathon relay, and marathon relay) is $25.00 and runners can receive an additional discount by selecting “no shirt” during registration.

Runners can register via the website: <a href="http://runsalinacrossroads.com">runsalinacrossroads.com</a>. Separating out the race shirts from the entry fee is designed to provide runners with an extremely affordable race entry fee and helps to reduce the costs to put on the race.

The Salina Crossroads Marathon continues to provide 100% of the race entry fees to the Salina Family YMCA, Kansas Youth Sports, School Marathon Foundation, Salina Area Youth Sportsmanship Initiative, and Salina Burn Track and Field Club. All finishers receive a high-quality finisher’s medal.

Eric Montoy of Vortex Companies designed this year’s race medal.

The Salina Crossroads Marathon has a planning team of approximately 25 individuals, which includes local nonprofits, small and large businesses, as well as local runners. Anyone who has a passion for event planning and would like to help would be welcome. The Salina Crossroads Marathon will also need over 300 volunteers. Anyone interested in helping out can email the race directors at <a href="mailto:runsalinacrossroads@gmail.com">runsalinacrossroads@gmail.com</a>.

The Salina Crossroads Marathon is the "Most Runner Friendly Marathon" in Kansas. Salina Crossroads strives to achieve this by allowing registered runners the option to change their race distance at any time, defer entries to the following year, and offers race-day packet pickup. 

The Salina Crossroads Marathon leadership team would like to thank the community of Salina for your amazing support that has allowed the race to quickly grow into one of the premier marathons in the Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma regions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699202771741.jpeg" alt="Crossroads Marathon runners take off from the start line on Saturday, Nov. 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Crossroads Marathon runners take off from the start line on Saturday, Nov. 4, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POST Salina Crossroads Marathon organizers announced on Monday that Team Take Down, an African American running club with runners in all fifty states as well as other countries, has selected the Salina Crossroads Marathon as its 2024 USA Meetup Race.In 2022, Daniel Craig, Co-Race Director of the Salina Crossroads Marathon, began developing relationships with more than 600 local running clubs, including large national clubs and smaller local clubs. Many of the runners on Team Take Down have a goal of running a half marathon or marathon in all fifty states and reaching that goal is easier when you have others to run with. Each year Team Take Down selects one race in the USA and one out of the country and put a call out to all their members. They typically have 100 or more participants in the marathon and up to 200 or more participants in the half marathon. “We are excited to welcome Team Take Down to the Salina Crossroads Marathon. We appreciate the opportunity to help support their efforts to bring greater representation and diversity to the sport of running. We look forward to working with Team Take Down to make the Salina Crossroads Marathon an amazing experience for their runners,” said Co-Race Director Daniel Craig.The Salina Crossroads Marathon is excited to have easily surpassed their challenge goal of 2,000 registered runners by March 31. There are currently 2,409 runners registered from 45 states and 4 different countries. Even though the challenge goal has been met, the Salina Crossroads Marathon is offering steeply discounted entries through March 31. “For a third-year marathon having a national running club select you as their yearly meetup race is amazing. It is a tribute to the amazing support we have received from the City of Salina, Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, Salina Downtown Inc., our more than 50 sponsors including Vortex Companies our Title Sponsor, and the community of Salina.”The cost to register prior to March 31 for any of the seven events (marathon, half marathon, half-mile kids fun run, 5k run, 5k walk, half marathon relay, and marathon relay) is $25.00 and runners can receive an additional discount by selecting “no shirt” during registration. Runners can register via the website: <a href="http://runsalinacrossroads.com">runsalinacrossroads.com</a>. Separating out the race shirts from the entry fee is designed to provide runners with an extremely affordable race entry fee and helps to reduce the costs to put on the race.The Salina Crossroads Marathon continues to provide 100% of the race entry fees to the Salina Family YMCA, Kansas Youth Sports, School Marathon Foundation, Salina Area Youth Sportsmanship Initiative, and Salina Burn Track and Field Club. All finishers receive a high-quality finisher’s medal.Eric Montoy of Vortex Companies designed this year’s race medal.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709665567505.png" alt="2024 Salina Crossroads Marathon medal design. Image Courtesy Salina Crossroads Marathon" />
 <figcaption>2024 Salina Crossroads Marathon medal design. Image Courtesy Salina Crossroads Marathon</figcaption>
 </figure>The Salina Crossroads Marathon has a planning team of approximately 25 individuals, which includes local nonprofits, small and large businesses, as well as local runners. Anyone who has a passion for event planning and would like to help would be welcome. The Salina Crossroads Marathon will also need over 300 volunteers. Anyone interested in helping out can email the race directors at <a href="mailto:runsalinacrossroads@gmail.com">runsalinacrossroads@gmail.com</a>. The Salina Crossroads Marathon is the "Most Runner Friendly Marathon" in Kansas. Salina Crossroads strives to achieve this by allowing registered runners the option to change their race distance at any time, defer entries to the following year, and offers race-day packet pickup. The Salina Crossroads Marathon leadership team would like to thank the community of Salina for your amazing support that has allowed the race to quickly grow into one of the premier marathons in the Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma regions.

National African American Running Club selects Salina Crossroads as 2024 USA meetup race

Two suspects robbed a 25-year-old Salina man of more than $200 in clothing items on the street on Sunday afternoon.

According to Salina Police Department Capt. James Feldman, at about 4:45 p.m. on Sunday, March 3, SPD officers reported to Fifth Street and Crawford Avenue for a robbery.

Feldman said officers communicated with a 25-year-old Salina man who reported two individuals, later identified as&nbsp;19-year-old Pavyn Svendblad and 18-year-old Evan Sager, from Salina, who allegedly robbed him of a bag of clothes and a Paypal card.

"He indicated he was walking down the street when two subjects, each subject was in their own type of vehicle, stopped him in the 700 block of South Fifth Street and confronted him [the victim]," Feldman said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574355645622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostTwo suspects robbed a 25-year-old Salina man of more than $200 in clothing items on the street on Sunday afternoon.According to Salina Police Department Capt. James Feldman, at about 4:45 p.m. on Sunday, March 3, SPD officers reported to Fifth Street and Crawford Avenue for a robbery.Feldman said officers communicated with a 25-year-old Salina man who reported two individuals, later identified as&nbsp;19-year-old Pavyn Svendblad and 18-year-old Evan Sager, from Salina, who allegedly robbed him of a bag of clothes and a Paypal card.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709558148506.png" alt="Svendblad, Pavyn Shay" />
 <figcaption>Svendblad, Pavyn Shay</figcaption>
 </figure>"He indicated he was walking down the street when two subjects, each subject was in their own type of vehicle, stopped him in the 700 block of South Fifth Street and confronted him [the victim]," Feldman said.After exiting their vehicles, the two suspects demanded that the 25-year-old victim owed them cash and to pay them immediately, first taking the victim's $150 tennis shoes that he was wearing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709557875550.png" alt="Sager, Evan Tyler" />
 <figcaption>Sager, Evan Tyler</figcaption>
 </figure>During the confrontation, the two suspects took the victim's tennis shoes and various articles of clothing the victim was carrying at the time of the crime. In total, the victim lost about $221 from the robbery.The suspects stole a pair of tennis shoes, a $20 pair of sweatpants, a $50 pair of shorts, and $1 for the PayPal card. Feldman said during the crime, the suspects threatened the victim with violence if he didn't comply with their demands.SPD officers found both Sager and Svendblad later, arrested both, and requested charges for robbery and criminal threat.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/545667ec-9de1-42b8-a488-9a7fe67bb89c">Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad announce expanded schedule</a>