By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

EquiFest of Kansas returned to Salina and brought international presenters, vendors from across the nation and horse fans from Kansas all packed into and around <a href="https://www.tonyspizzaeventscenter.com/">Tony's Pizza Events Center</a>, 800 The Midway, Salina, Kan.

On its opening day, EquiFest celebrated with the World of Horses showcase that evening, featuring various presenters and clinicians for the rest of the event.

Sparklers lit up the central arena at the Events Center around 7 p.m., Thursday, March 14, to kick off the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses presentation.

After a short presentation from the Fort Riley Commanding General's Mounted Color Guard, the Diaz Family and another trainer, the Little Head Horse Dancers entered the stage to showcase their nationally recognized skills in traditional Native American dance.

Once the dancers concluded the traditional Horse Dance, North American indigenous education continued with Tashina and Shane Red Hawk, the Sicangu Lakota Nation members.

There, the father-daughter duo shared the ways of Lakota horsemanship and the deep connections they found while raising and training Heritage Appaloosa horses.

The Red Hawks finished the celebration, but throughout the day outside the arena, dozens of vendors sold various goods, ranging from rugged saddles to delicate Nepal-made jewelry.

More than 100 vendors visited this year's EquiFest, with a majority representing Kansas businesses, but some traveled from out of state to attend the large equine expo.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/50df5de1-f834-47bf-ba8b-450d2ef603bf">Bowl For Kids’ Sake fundraiser returns to Salina in April</a>

John Nocar, owner of the <a href="https://www.australiansaddleco.com/">Australian Saddle Company</a> from Mt. Vernon, Ohio, began attending various festivals and expos nationwide 18 years ago. In 2008, Nocar brought the Australian Saddle Company to EquiFest of Kansas.

"I like helping the people," Nocar said. "We fit saddles to the horse and our trees are made with aluminum, so it allows us to bend the tree to custom fit it to the horse. We're not just selling the saddle that's been made off of a tree that's previously made."

The tree of a saddle is the inner structure of a horse saddle. Since it is often made of wood, giving it the name "tree," some riders have difficulty finding the right saddle for their horses. 

Nocar began in the saddle business with a different company until it sold, and he started looking for new opportunities. He found one with an Australian leather conditioning recipe.

From there, Nocar built up the Australian Saddle Company, where he and his team attend nearly a dozen shows throughout the year, four of which are back-to-back alongside the EquiFest of Kansas.

Australian Saddle Company is an online business, so attending shows allows customers to review the product to consider it later or buy it in person during the show.

"It pushes your online business, and people still want to feel in touch," Nocar said. "I don't mind them buying online because it can't find anywhere else."

Another out-of-town vendor, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/handcraftedsterlingsilver/">Earth Delights</a>, owned by Joanna Donavan from Madison, Wisconsin, visits EquiFest of Kansas yearly to sell her Nepal-made sterling silver jewelry.

Donavan said she designs and performs the stone cutting for the various gemstones in her jewelry, but her business partners in Nepal finish the pieces with sterling silver.

"I was trained as a goldsmith with them, and then I slowly switched over to making lapidary and doing stone cutting," Donavan said.

As the vendors continued their sales, various clinicians inside two different arenas continually shared information about horsemanship and training.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710885438213.jpeg" alt="Ruben Little Head Jr. performs a traditional horse dance during the Celebrate EquiFest of Kansas opening evening on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina.&nbsp;Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Ruben Little Head Jr. performs a traditional horse dance during the Celebrate EquiFest of Kansas opening evening on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina.&nbsp;Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostEquiFest of Kansas returned to Salina and brought international presenters, vendors from across the nation and horse fans from Kansas all packed into and around <a href="https://www.tonyspizzaeventscenter.com/">Tony's Pizza Events Center</a>, 800 The Midway, Salina, Kan.On its opening day, EquiFest celebrated with the World of Horses showcase that evening, featuring various presenters and clinicians for the rest of the event.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710885770881.jpeg" alt="An American Freedom Riders Drill Team rider flies the Kansas Horse Council flag during the Celebrate EquiFest of Kansas opening evening on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>An American Freedom Riders Drill Team rider flies the Kansas Horse Council flag during the Celebrate EquiFest of Kansas opening evening on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Sparklers lit up the central arena at the Events Center around 7 p.m., Thursday, March 14, to kick off the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses presentation.After a short presentation from the Fort Riley Commanding General's Mounted Color Guard, the Diaz Family and another trainer, the Little Head Horse Dancers entered the stage to showcase their nationally recognized skills in traditional Native American dance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710885627597.jpeg" alt="Staci Anderson-Diaz performs with her stallion during the Celebrate EquiFest of Kansas opening evening on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Staci Anderson-Diaz performs with her stallion during the Celebrate EquiFest of Kansas opening evening on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Once the dancers concluded the traditional Horse Dance, North American indigenous education continued with Tashina and Shane Red Hawk, the Sicangu Lakota Nation members.There, the father-daughter duo shared the ways of Lakota horsemanship and the deep connections they found while raising and training Heritage Appaloosa horses.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710885857095.jpeg" alt="Tashina Red Hawk rides with her father, Shane Red Hawk, on Heritage Appaloosas bred and trained by their family during the Celebrate EquiFest of Kansas opening evening on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Tashina Red Hawk rides with her father, Shane Red Hawk, on Heritage Appaloosas bred and trained by their family during the Celebrate EquiFest of Kansas opening evening on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>The Red Hawks finished the celebration, but throughout the day outside the arena, dozens of vendors sold various goods, ranging from rugged saddles to delicate Nepal-made jewelry.More than 100 vendors visited this year's EquiFest, with a majority representing Kansas businesses, but some traveled from out of state to attend the large equine expo.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/50df5de1-f834-47bf-ba8b-450d2ef603bf">Bowl For Kids’ Sake fundraiser returns to Salina in April</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710885935943.jpeg" alt="Australian Saddle Company saddles sit on stands ready for visitors to view during EquiFest of Kansas on Saturday, March 16, in the Great Plains Convention Hall at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Australian Saddle Company saddles sit on stands ready for visitors to view during EquiFest of Kansas on Saturday, March 16, in the Great Plains Convention Hall at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>John Nocar, owner of the <a href="https://www.australiansaddleco.com/">Australian Saddle Company</a> from Mt. Vernon, Ohio, began attending various festivals and expos nationwide 18 years ago. In 2008, Nocar brought the Australian Saddle Company to EquiFest of Kansas."I like helping the people," Nocar said. "We fit saddles to the horse and our trees are made with aluminum, so it allows us to bend the tree to custom fit it to the horse. We're not just selling the saddle that's been made off of a tree that's previously made."The tree of a saddle is the inner structure of a horse saddle. Since it is often made of wood, giving it the name "tree," some riders have difficulty finding the right saddle for their horses. Nocar began in the saddle business with a different company until it sold, and he started looking for new opportunities. He found one with an Australian leather conditioning recipe.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886042776.jpeg" alt="A tin of Aussie Leather Keep sits on an Australian Saddle Company saddle during EquiFest of Kansas on Saturday, March 16, in the Great Plains Convention Hall at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina.&nbsp;Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>A tin of Aussie Leather Keep sits on an Australian Saddle Company saddle during EquiFest of Kansas on Saturday, March 16, in the Great Plains Convention Hall at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina.&nbsp;Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>From there, Nocar built up the Australian Saddle Company, where he and his team attend nearly a dozen shows throughout the year, four of which are back-to-back alongside the EquiFest of Kansas.Australian Saddle Company is an online business, so attending shows allows customers to review the product to consider it later or buy it in person during the show."It pushes your online business, and people still want to feel in touch," Nocar said. "I don't mind them buying online because it can't find anywhere else."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886107192.jpeg" alt="Earth Delights' various sterling silver jewelry pieces on display during EquiFest of Kansas on Saturday, March 16, in the Great Plains Convention Hall at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Earth Delights' various sterling silver jewelry pieces on display during EquiFest of Kansas on Saturday, March 16, in the Great Plains Convention Hall at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Another out-of-town vendor, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/handcraftedsterlingsilver/">Earth Delights</a>, owned by Joanna Donavan from Madison, Wisconsin, visits EquiFest of Kansas yearly to sell her Nepal-made sterling silver jewelry.Donavan said she designs and performs the stone cutting for the various gemstones in her jewelry, but her business partners in Nepal finish the pieces with sterling silver."I was trained as a goldsmith with them, and then I slowly switched over to making lapidary and doing stone cutting," Donavan said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886168642.jpeg" alt="Percheron horses Ace, left and Chip, right, drink from a tub of water after pulling carriage rides during EquiFest of Kansas on Saturday, March 16, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Percheron horses Ace, left and Chip, right, drink from a tub of water after pulling carriage rides during EquiFest of Kansas on Saturday, March 16, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>As the vendors continued their sales, various clinicians inside two different arenas continually shared information about horsemanship and training.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886487447.jpeg" alt="The Fort Riley Commanding General's Mounted Color Guard strides into the arena during the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The Fort Riley Commanding General's Mounted Color Guard strides into the arena during the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886529860.jpeg" alt="Sparklers light up the arena in Tony's Pizza Events Center to begin the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Sparklers light up the arena in Tony's Pizza Events Center to begin the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886596678.jpeg" alt="Staci Anderson-Diaz performs with her Spanish stallion during the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Staci Anderson-Diaz performs with her Spanish stallion during the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886682561.jpeg" alt="Saddles line the wall of a vendor at EquiFest of Kansas in the Great Plains Convention Hall at Tony's Pizza Events Center on Saturday, March 16, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Saddles line the wall of a vendor at EquiFest of Kansas in the Great Plains Convention Hall at Tony's Pizza Events Center on Saturday, March 16, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886783443.jpeg" alt="A dancer with Little Head Horse Dancers performs a traditional horse dance during the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>A dancer with Little Head Horse Dancers performs a traditional horse dance during the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710886833028.jpeg" alt="Nicolas Diaz, a fifth-generation horseman, performs with his stallion during the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Nicolas Diaz, a fifth-generation horseman, performs with his stallion during the Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses on Thursday, March 14, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>

EquiFest of Kansas celebrates horsemanship with heritage and innovation

By NATE KING KING and OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

Earlier this month, the Kansas Corporation Commission, or KCC, ordered Sundowner, LLC, owner Scott Kolling, to remove the locks he placed on water meters at Sundowner West Mobile Home and Trailer Park.

Following the adoption of a report by the KCC Utilities Division, staff found that Kolling was out of compliance as a public utility.

Sundowner, LLC’s failure to obtain proper documentation could lead to an almost $1 million fine. The fine is from K.S.A. 66-138, which prescribes a civil penalty of no less than $100 a day for providers who fail to comply with a provision of the public utilities statutes. The report stated that the fine would begin on Aug. 26, 2021.

One of these statutes requires filing for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, or COC, before providing the service. According to the KCC analysis, staff found that Sundowner, LLC owner Scott Kolling had not obtained a COC.

“<a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch66/066_001_0004.html">K.S.A. 66-104</a>&nbsp;defines a public utility as any company that furnishes water service,” the report by the KCC Utilities Division stated. “In addition to obtaining a COC to operate as a public utility, <a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch66/066_001_0017.html">K.S.A. 66-117</a>&nbsp;requires public utilities to seek approval for any rates or changes to its customers.”

Misty Livingston-Holmes, a longtime resident at Sundowner, said she voiced her concerns with the KCC about whether or not the founder of Sundowner, Frank Norton, ever applied for a COC when he established the park or if he was required to do so.

“I said, ‘I want clarification on this,” Livingston-Holmes said. “[Saline County]&nbsp; told me to call the KCC, and they will handle it.”

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/fbf51323-7eb3-4f6c-8e69-37dea91cc2e6">Years of neglect causes water crisis at Sundowner Mobile Home and Trailer Park</a>

When Livingston-Holmes called the KCC’s consumer helpline in 2023 and again in January 2024, the KCC staff told her that the commission knew nothing about the water issue at Sundowner or that Sundowner’s public utility even existed.

According to a statement from Linda Berry, the KCC Public Affairs and Consumer Protection director, the KCC staff are unsure when the subdivision Norton founded became a public utility. Berry said if Norton sold water to private homes while he owned the park, it would qualify as a public utility under <a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch66/066_001_0004.html">K.S.A. 66-104</a>.

This unknown qualification status for a COC or other oversight continued through each subsequent owner of Sundowner, LLC.

“They didn't know anything about it because he [Kolling] was never registered with the state,” Livingston-Holmes said. “Sundowner originated with Frank Norton owning the property. We bought lots, so with Frank, though, owning all of this, he didn't have to register.”

Residents at Sundowner, including Livingston-Holmes, continue to experience alternating days of black water with sandy sediment or strong-smelling chlorinated water coming from their faucets. Livingston-Holmes said the water quality issues have ruined her kitchen and bathroom appliances.&nbsp;

“This is the third time that I've had to run my dishwasher. I'm currently running it empty because I ran my washer, and I had all kinds of nasty sand all over my dishes,” Livingston-Holmes said. “The water has ruined our clothes and appliances because of all the black yuck.”

On top of black or heavily chlorinated water, Kolling allegedly provided water bills late to residents, with some Sundowner residents reporting bills that totaled almost $1,000.

Billing issues continue to affect the residents of Sundowner, and Livingston-Holmes said she felt burdened with anger and disgust.

“I got my water bill for February, and according to Scott, my consumption showed that I had used almost 16,000 gallons,” Livingston-Holmes said. “We use it to shower, which we try to do minimally, run our dishwasher, and wash our clothes. If you compare my bills from the past, we have never even come close to using 16,000 gallons of water.”

Livingston-Holmes and other Sundowner residents first raised their concerns with the Saline County Commission, starting with Saline County District 5 Commissioner and Commission Chair Joe Hay.

The only significant change the Saline County Commission could make to remedy the issue was to impose eminent domain, but that process is lengthy, and Hay said it would take too long to get the residents the help they need.

Instead, Hay began conversations with the KCC and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, or KDHE, and provided as much information as possible. The recent KCC Utilities Division report outlined some things Hay found in his initial review of the issue.

“I think they looked at it like he's [Kolling] neglected so much stuff,” Hay said. “He's never applied for the permit — he never applied to be able to raise their rates.”

State Representative Susan Concannon became aware of the ongoing situation at Sundowner after hearing about billing errors and inconsistent water quality from Hay.&nbsp;

LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/90be1788-5134-4e53-abd2-48415a7901c5">🎙King in the Community: State Rep. Susan Concannon</a>

Concannon later found more evidence for Kolling’s alleged neglect when KDHE staff told her that a local individual sent the water samples to the state department. KDHE staff confirmed this was the standard when testing privately owned wells, and staff do not visit the site.

“When I first found out about it that weekend, when I came home, I just drove to Sundowner and walked around, met some people,” Concannon said. “I had to see and hear about it myself before I could be a big advocate for them in Topeka.”

The following week, Concannon spoke with KDHE and a representative from Gov. Laura Kelly’s office to find a solution for residents.

“I just could not find anybody who would respond in a way that I felt was reactive,” Concannon said.

One way Concannon later saw an issue of slow response was in the Utilities Division report. Staff recommended that the KCC order Kolling to “Show Cause” or explain why Sundowner, LLC, would not need to apply for a COC within 30 days — possibly 30 more days of residents living with a compromised water system.

To Concannon, this issue was more than just part of her job. As she began interacting with Livingston-Holmes and other residents, she found the importance of opening dialogue channels for them.

“It's part of my job, but the part that I really enjoy is being able to fix a problem and help my constituents,” Concannon said. “Getting to know Misty has been just a pleasure. She really is a fighter for her community.”

Inspired by the strength of Livingston-Holmes and other residents at Sundowner, Concannon continued to push the issue and decided to contact Kansas Sen. J. R. Claeys, chair of the Utilities Division. After notifying Claeys, he sought further clarification on Sundowner’s history.

“The issue was that they [Kansas Attorney General’s Office] was under the assumption that the KCC would regulate based on it being from utility,” Claeys said. “Once they found out that there was a landlord-tenant issue, that gave them the clarification they could pursue.”

According to KDHE Communications Director Jill Bronaugh, the KDHE is responsible for complying with and enforcing federal and state regulations regarding public water supply systems.&nbsp;

Bronaugh said in the statement, “If the water system is privately owned, the KCC also has oversight authority regarding water rates.”&nbsp;

With the analysis of the Sundowner issue complete and on public record, KCC staff and other departments continue to wait for Kolling to “Show Cause” as to why he may not need a COC to continue business as Sundowner, LCC.

“This is a major health concern,” Livingston-Holmes. “I am very disappointed. I'm irritated. I'm just disgusted.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706028886080.jpeg" alt="Sundowner West Meadows Mobile Home Park resident Misty Livingston-Holmes holds up a water bottle filled with water from a spigot in her back yard on Wednesday, Jan. 17, near Hedville. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Sundowner West Meadows Mobile Home Park resident Misty Livingston-Holmes holds up a water bottle filled with water from a spigot in her back yard on Wednesday, Jan. 17, near Hedville. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By NATE KING KING and OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostEarlier this month, the Kansas Corporation Commission, or KCC, ordered Sundowner, LLC, owner Scott Kolling, to remove the locks he placed on water meters at Sundowner West Mobile Home and Trailer Park.Following the adoption of a report by the KCC Utilities Division, staff found that Kolling was out of compliance as a public utility.Sundowner, LLC’s failure to obtain proper documentation could lead to an almost $1 million fine. The fine is from K.S.A. 66-138, which prescribes a civil penalty of no less than $100 a day for providers who fail to comply with a provision of the public utilities statutes. The report stated that the fine would begin on Aug. 26, 2021.One of these statutes requires filing for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, or COC, before providing the service. According to the KCC analysis, staff found that Sundowner, LLC owner Scott Kolling had not obtained a COC.“<a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch66/066_001_0004.html">K.S.A. 66-104</a>&nbsp;defines a public utility as any company that furnishes water service,” the report by the KCC Utilities Division stated. “In addition to obtaining a COC to operate as a public utility, <a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch66/066_001_0017.html">K.S.A. 66-117</a>&nbsp;requires public utilities to seek approval for any rates or changes to its customers.”Misty Livingston-Holmes, a longtime resident at Sundowner, said she voiced her concerns with the KCC about whether or not the founder of Sundowner, Frank Norton, ever applied for a COC when he established the park or if he was required to do so.“I said, ‘I want clarification on this,” Livingston-Holmes said. “[Saline County]&nbsp; told me to call the KCC, and they will handle it.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706028816067.jpeg" alt="A bottle filled with water from an outside spigot at Sundowner West Meadows Mobile Home Park resident Misty Livingston-Holmes' house on Wednesday, Jan. 17, near Hedville. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>A bottle filled with water from an outside spigot at Sundowner West Meadows Mobile Home Park resident Misty Livingston-Holmes' house on Wednesday, Jan. 17, near Hedville. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/fbf51323-7eb3-4f6c-8e69-37dea91cc2e6">Years of neglect causes water crisis at Sundowner Mobile Home and Trailer Park</a>When Livingston-Holmes called the KCC’s consumer helpline in 2023 and again in January 2024, the KCC staff told her that the commission knew nothing about the water issue at Sundowner or that Sundowner’s public utility even existed.According to a statement from Linda Berry, the KCC Public Affairs and Consumer Protection director, the KCC staff are unsure when the subdivision Norton founded became a public utility. Berry said if Norton sold water to private homes while he owned the park, it would qualify as a public utility under <a href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch66/066_001_0004.html">K.S.A. 66-104</a>.This unknown qualification status for a COC or other oversight continued through each subsequent owner of Sundowner, LLC.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709938771635.jpeg" alt="The corrosion on a kitchen sink in Misty Livingston-Holme's home at Sundowner West Mobile Home and Trailer Park in early March. Image courtesy Misty Livingston-Holmes." />
 <figcaption>The corrosion on a kitchen sink in Misty Livingston-Holme's home at Sundowner West Mobile Home and Trailer Park in early March. Image courtesy Misty Livingston-Holmes.</figcaption>
 </figure>“They didn't know anything about it because he [Kolling] was never registered with the state,” Livingston-Holmes said. “Sundowner originated with Frank Norton owning the property. We bought lots, so with Frank, though, owning all of this, he didn't have to register.”Residents at Sundowner, including Livingston-Holmes, continue to experience alternating days of black water with sandy sediment or strong-smelling chlorinated water coming from their faucets. Livingston-Holmes said the water quality issues have ruined her kitchen and bathroom appliances.&nbsp;“This is the third time that I've had to run my dishwasher. I'm currently running it empty because I ran my washer, and I had all kinds of nasty sand all over my dishes,” Livingston-Holmes said. “The water has ruined our clothes and appliances because of all the black yuck.”On top of black or heavily chlorinated water, Kolling allegedly provided water bills late to residents, with some Sundowner residents reporting bills that totaled almost $1,000.Billing issues continue to affect the residents of Sundowner, and Livingston-Holmes said she felt burdened with anger and disgust.“I got my water bill for February, and according to Scott, my consumption showed that I had used almost 16,000 gallons,” Livingston-Holmes said. “We use it to shower, which we try to do minimally, run our dishwasher, and wash our clothes. If you compare my bills from the past, we have never even come close to using 16,000 gallons of water.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709938977502.jpeg" alt="Residue on Misty Livingston-Holmes' shower at Sundowner West Mobile Home and Trailer Park. Image courtesy Misty Livingston-Holmes." />
 <figcaption>Residue on Misty Livingston-Holmes' shower at Sundowner West Mobile Home and Trailer Park. Image courtesy Misty Livingston-Holmes.</figcaption>
 </figure>Livingston-Holmes and other Sundowner residents first raised their concerns with the Saline County Commission, starting with Saline County District 5 Commissioner and Commission Chair Joe Hay.<h2>The early efforts from the local scene</h2>The only significant change the Saline County Commission could make to remedy the issue was to impose eminent domain, but that process is lengthy, and Hay said it would take too long to get the residents the help they need.Instead, Hay began conversations with the KCC and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, or KDHE, and provided as much information as possible. The recent KCC Utilities Division report outlined some things Hay found in his initial review of the issue.“I think they looked at it like he's [Kolling] neglected so much stuff,” Hay said. “He's never applied for the permit — he never applied to be able to raise their rates.”State Representative Susan Concannon became aware of the ongoing situation at Sundowner after hearing about billing errors and inconsistent water quality from Hay.&nbsp;LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/90be1788-5134-4e53-abd2-48415a7901c5">🎙King in the Community: State Rep. Susan Concannon</a>Concannon later found more evidence for Kolling’s alleged neglect when KDHE staff told her that a local individual sent the water samples to the state department. KDHE staff confirmed this was the standard when testing privately owned wells, and staff do not visit the site.“When I first found out about it that weekend, when I came home, I just drove to Sundowner and walked around, met some people,” Concannon said. “I had to see and hear about it myself before I could be a big advocate for them in Topeka.”The following week, Concannon spoke with KDHE and a representative from Gov. Laura Kelly’s office to find a solution for residents.“I just could not find anybody who would respond in a way that I felt was reactive,” Concannon said.One way Concannon later saw an issue of slow response was in the Utilities Division report. Staff recommended that the KCC order Kolling to “Show Cause” or explain why Sundowner, LLC, would not need to apply for a COC within 30 days — possibly 30 more days of residents living with a compromised water system.To Concannon, this issue was more than just part of her job. As she began interacting with Livingston-Holmes and other residents, she found the importance of opening dialogue channels for them.“It's part of my job, but the part that I really enjoy is being able to fix a problem and help my constituents,” Concannon said. “Getting to know Misty has been just a pleasure. She really is a fighter for her community.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709939066435.jpeg" alt="The toilet tank filled with black water at Misty Livingston-Holmes' residence at Sundowner West Mobile Home and Trailer Park. Image courtesy Misty Livingston-Holmes." />
 <figcaption>The toilet tank filled with black water at Misty Livingston-Holmes' residence at Sundowner West Mobile Home and Trailer Park. Image courtesy Misty Livingston-Holmes.</figcaption>
 </figure>Inspired by the strength of Livingston-Holmes and other residents at Sundowner, Concannon continued to push the issue and decided to contact Kansas Sen. J. R. Claeys, chair of the Utilities Division. After notifying Claeys, he sought further clarification on Sundowner’s history.“The issue was that they [Kansas Attorney General’s Office] was under the assumption that the KCC would regulate based on it being from utility,” Claeys said. “Once they found out that there was a landlord-tenant issue, that gave them the clarification they could pursue.”According to KDHE Communications Director Jill Bronaugh, the KDHE is responsible for complying with and enforcing federal and state regulations regarding public water supply systems.&nbsp;Bronaugh said in the statement, “If the water system is privately owned, the KCC also has oversight authority regarding water rates.”&nbsp;With the analysis of the Sundowner issue complete and on public record, KCC staff and other departments continue to wait for Kolling to “Show Cause” as to why he may not need a COC to continue business as Sundowner, LCC.“This is a major health concern,” Livingston-Holmes. “I am very disappointed. I'm irritated. I'm just disgusted.”

Kansas Corporation Commission orders Sundowner, LLC owner to remove meter locks immediately

Salina City Commissioners held a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEXVjjNFeVQ">special meeting</a> on Monday evening to address the ongoing&nbsp;federal district court civil lawsuit, Cozy Inn vs. City of Salina.

 The lawsuit, filed in Feb. by Cozy Inn owner Steve Howard, involves a painting on the exterior of the Cozy Inn Hamburgers restaurant located in downtown Salina.

Because the commission would need to consult with an attorney for the public body which would be deemed privileged under K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2), commissioners recessed immediately into executive session to discuss the lawsuit following roll call.

Once they concluded their discussion, commissioners returned to vote on the matter.

In a unanimous vote, commissioners agreed not to pursue any penalties or fines against The Cozy Inn, from the time the case began until the time it is concluded, as long as the business maintains the <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=531367&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina">"status quo,"</a> meaning not altering the current painting in any way.&nbsp;

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

&nbsp;The City Code allows for murals, but the controversial painting, according to the City, depicts hamburgers and directs pedestrians inside the business, classifying it as a commercial sign. 

Steve Howard doesn't see it that way. According to him, the partially completed mural depicts spaceships and a message to encourage visitors, "Don't fear the smell, the fun is inside!"

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/343e570a-c5e2-4f10-af08-9fc6537d086c">Cozy Inn Hamburgers 'sign' put on hold pending city approval</a>

The lawsuit against the City argues that Salina's sign code infringes on Howard's right to freedom of speech.&nbsp;

<a href="https://kansasjusticeinstitute.org/case/salina-mural-free-speech/">According to the Kansas Justice Insitute</a>, KJI, a free public-interest litigation firm protecting the freedoms guaranteed by the Kansas and United States Constitutions, the government cannot restrict a mural simply because it contains references to the business on which it is painted.

KJI argues that the First Amendment prohibits content-based restrictions on speech and artwork an the amendment does not allow the City to pick and choose which murals to allow and which to prohibit based on the message or content of the mural.

Check Salina Post for future updates regarding Cozy Inn Hamburgers V. City of Salina

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699905373563.jpeg" alt="Cozy Inn Hamburgers' new mural was put on pause by the City of Salina because restaurant owner, Steve Howard, did not follow procedures set in place by the Salina City Design and Review Board. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Cozy Inn Hamburgers' new mural was put on pause by the City of Salina because restaurant owner, Steve Howard, did not follow procedures set in place by the Salina City Design and Review Board. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTSalina City Commissioners held a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEXVjjNFeVQ">special meeting</a> on Monday evening to address the ongoing&nbsp;federal district court civil lawsuit, Cozy Inn vs. City of Salina. The lawsuit, filed in Feb. by Cozy Inn owner Steve Howard, involves a painting on the exterior of the Cozy Inn Hamburgers restaurant located in downtown Salina.Because the commission would need to consult with an attorney for the public body which would be deemed privileged under K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2), commissioners recessed immediately into executive session to discuss the lawsuit following roll call.Once they concluded their discussion, commissioners returned to vote on the matter.In a unanimous vote, commissioners agreed not to pursue any penalties or fines against The Cozy Inn, from the time the case began until the time it is concluded, as long as the business maintains the <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=531367&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina">"status quo,"</a> meaning not altering the current painting in any way.&nbsp;READ MORE:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/fc7ed532-a1ba-46b6-85c3-4ed867abb15a">&nbsp;Iconic restaurant, The Cozy Inn, sues Salina over right to paint a one-of-a-kind mural</a>&nbsp;The City Code allows for murals, but the controversial painting, according to the City, depicts hamburgers and directs pedestrians inside the business, classifying it as a commercial sign. Steve Howard doesn't see it that way. According to him, the partially completed mural depicts spaceships and a message to encourage visitors, "Don't fear the smell, the fun is inside!"READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/343e570a-c5e2-4f10-af08-9fc6537d086c">Cozy Inn Hamburgers 'sign' put on hold pending city approval</a>The lawsuit against the City argues that Salina's sign code infringes on Howard's right to freedom of speech.&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasjusticeinstitute.org/case/salina-mural-free-speech/">According to the Kansas Justice Insitute</a>, KJI, a free public-interest litigation firm protecting the freedoms guaranteed by the Kansas and United States Constitutions, the government cannot restrict a mural simply because it contains references to the business on which it is painted. KJI argues that the First Amendment prohibits content-based restrictions on speech and artwork an the amendment does not allow the City to pick and choose which murals to allow and which to prohibit based on the message or content of the mural.Check Salina Post for future updates regarding Cozy Inn Hamburgers V. City of Salina

City Commissioners agree to stipulation regarding Cozy Inn v. City of Salina

On Saturday evening, a 27-year-old Salina resident broke a protection order and battered his previous partner before Salina Police Department officers arrested him later that night.

At the 700 block of South Second Street, SPD officers visited a residence at about 5:30 p.m. where a 38-year-old Salina woman reported 27-year-old Cody Jones for kicking in her door, which hit her 10-year-old child and allegedly becoming aggressive.

"He confronted her, there was an argument, and he ended up pushing her and battered her," said SPD Capt. James Feldman. "Then, he ended up throwing a computer, damaging it and then stole her Samsung phone and then also grabbed a security camera and threw it against the wall, breaking it."

Feldman said officers valued the total damage at around $1,050, with the stolen phone at an additional $250. The victim also had some visible evidence of injury through slight redness around her neck.

When officers arrived at the residence, Jones had already fled the area. 

SPD officers later found Jones around 9 p.m. at the Salina Inn on Westport Boulevard. Feldman said officers found Jones outside the hotel building hiding behind some mattresses.

Officers arrested Jones without incident and requested charges for aggravated burglary, criminal damage to property, domestic battery, violation of a protection order, theft and simple battery.

The door strike did not injure the child, and the victim had no injuries that required immediate treatment.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/b7a82c09-d61b-4d2d-bbf2-82933261af24">City of Salina releases statement regarding court software</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710682964064.jpeg" alt="Jones, Cody Michael" />
 <figcaption>Jones, Cody Michael</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostOn Saturday evening, a 27-year-old Salina resident broke a protection order and battered his previous partner before Salina Police Department officers arrested him later that night.At the 700 block of South Second Street, SPD officers visited a residence at about 5:30 p.m. where a 38-year-old Salina woman reported 27-year-old Cody Jones for kicking in her door, which hit her 10-year-old child and allegedly becoming aggressive."He confronted her, there was an argument, and he ended up pushing her and battered her," said SPD Capt. James Feldman. "Then, he ended up throwing a computer, damaging it and then stole her Samsung phone and then also grabbed a security camera and threw it against the wall, breaking it."Feldman said officers valued the total damage at around $1,050, with the stolen phone at an additional $250. The victim also had some visible evidence of injury through slight redness around her neck.When officers arrived at the residence, Jones had already fled the area. SPD officers later found Jones around 9 p.m. at the Salina Inn on Westport Boulevard. Feldman said officers found Jones outside the hotel building hiding behind some mattresses.Officers arrested Jones without incident and requested charges for aggravated burglary, criminal damage to property, domestic battery, violation of a protection order, theft and simple battery.The door strike did not injure the child, and the victim had no injuries that required immediate treatment.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/b7a82c09-d61b-4d2d-bbf2-82933261af24">City of Salina releases statement regarding court software</a>

SPD arrests resident that broke protection order and battered victim

During the week of March 18 through 22, Circle C Paving &amp; Construction of Goddard, Kansas will continue work on the City of Salina’s annual pavement crack sealing project by sealing cracks on the following streets, weather permitting.

• Applewood • Armory behind Atwoods • Aullwood • Beechwood south of Northwood • Brookwood west of Beechwood and east of Georgetown • Eastborough • Georgetown south of Village and north of Brookwood • Northwood west of Beechwood and east of Fairdale • Pheasant west of Fairdale and east of Georgetown • Pheasant Circle • Phillips, Crawford to Prescott • Southwest of Broadway • Stewart • Village west of Fairdale and east of Georgetown

The work will take place generally between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Access to properties within work zones will be maintained at all times. “Road Work Ahead” signs will be placed in advance of work zones, and temporary single-lane closures are to be expected. Motorists are asked to proceed with caution when approaching work zones for the safety of the crews performing the work.

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

This $498,000 project is part of the City's $5.9 million 2024 street maintenance program.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/9c740142-863b-46ac-96c9-5a064c3ae18c">Two Salina teens pronounced dead at scene of crash on Friday</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>SubmittedDuring the week of March 18 through 22, Circle C Paving &amp; Construction of Goddard, Kansas will continue work on the City of Salina’s annual pavement crack sealing project by sealing cracks on the following streets, weather permitting.• Applewood • Armory behind Atwoods • Aullwood • Beechwood south of Northwood • Brookwood west of Beechwood and east of Georgetown • Eastborough • Georgetown south of Village and north of Brookwood • Northwood west of Beechwood and east of Fairdale • Pheasant west of Fairdale and east of Georgetown • Pheasant Circle • Phillips, Crawford to Prescott • Southwest of Broadway • Stewart • Village west of Fairdale and east of GeorgetownThe work will take place generally between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Access to properties within work zones will be maintained at all times. “Road Work Ahead” signs will be placed in advance of work zones, and temporary single-lane closures are to be expected. Motorists are asked to proceed with caution when approaching work zones for the safety of the crews performing the work.The annual crack and joint sealing program is an important and cost-effective preventive maintenance component of the City of Salina’s annual street repair program. Crack sealing the pavement helps prevent water from penetrating into the pavement structure or sub-base material and aids in reducing a number of pavement problems which include: crack spreading; formation of voids under pavement; swelling and shrinking of sub-base materials; freeze-thaw action; alligator cracking; potholing; and complete failure. Because of its importance and cost- effectiveness, the Department of Public Works strives to seal each asphalt street in Salina no less often than every seven years. This $498,000 project is part of the City's $5.9 million 2024 street maintenance program.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/9c740142-863b-46ac-96c9-5a064c3ae18c">Two Salina teens pronounced dead at scene of crash on Friday</a>

City of Salina pavement sealing work continues this week

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>

3. Equipment a. Motor Graders - Replacing at 10k Hours vs. 8k Hours

5. Granville Road Minimum Maintenance Road and Gate at Ohio St.

7. Road Improvement Program - 124 Account (1-mil) a. Priority Projects for 2024-2026+

9. 2024 Road and Bridge Contractual Program

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/9c740142-863b-46ac-96c9-5a064c3ae18c">Two Salina teens pronounced dead at scene of crash on Friday</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>Study Session - Road and Bridge</h2>1. Airport Authority Projects 2. 2025 Budget Expectations3. Equipment a. Motor Graders - Replacing at 10k Hours vs. 8k Hours4. Tire Waste Grant5. Granville Road Minimum Maintenance Road and Gate at Ohio St.6. Channel Bank Mitigation Project7. Road Improvement Program - 124 Account (1-mil) a. Priority Projects for 2024-2026+8. Aggregates9. 2024 Road and Bridge Contractual ProgramREAD MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/9c740142-863b-46ac-96c9-5a064c3ae18c">Two Salina teens pronounced dead at scene of crash on Friday</a>

Saline County Board of Commissioners March 19 study session agenda

On Friday, March 15, Saline County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to a lethal crash where local emergency services pronounced two Salina teens dead on the scene from a head-on collision on West Crawford Street.

Saline County Sheriff's Office deputies reported to the 2800 block of West Crawford Street at 6:26 p.m. just west of Fairchild Road, where a 2001 silver Chevrolet Camaro struck a 2022 blue Chevrolet Silverado head-on.

Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said deputies investigating the case found evidence that the driver of the silver Camaro, 17-year-old Vance McComber, who died in the crash, was drag racing another blue 2017 Chevrolet Camaro before the crash occurred.

"They're still investigating all the circumstances around it, but at this time, it appears there were indications that they were drag racing west, but for whatever reason, they didn't see the truck coming," Soldan said. "Whether it was the sun or they were distracted by watching what's going on with the guy beside him or what."

Soldan said McComber had two passengers in the vehicle with him, 17-year-old Anthony Windell, who sat in the passenger seat and also died in the crash, and 17-year-old Alphonso Torres Ramirez. 

Local emergency services later transported Torres Ramirez to Salina Regional Health Center with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

The truck, driven by 41-year-old Rosa Vasquez, was traveling eastbound on Crawford with her 12-year-old daughter Judy Vasquez when the vehicles crashed.

Soldan said another vehicle was present at the scene of the crash, which veered out of the way of McComber's car before it crashed into Rosa Vasquez's truck.

Emergency services also transported Rosa and Judy Vasquez to Salina Regional with severe but non-life-threatening injuries.

The second alleged Camaro driver believed to have drag-raced the other Camaro, was identified as a 2017 blue Chevrolet Camaro with one driver and an unknown number of passengers.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/b7b31a77-86e4-4d54-864b-3c6b84ad886d">Abilene Industrial Park Advances with Approval of $1.1 Million Contingent Grant</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698873143602.png" alt="The Saline County Sheriff's Office located at 800 E. Pacific Avenue in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The Saline County Sheriff's Office located at 800 E. Pacific Avenue in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostOn Friday, March 15, Saline County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to a lethal crash where local emergency services pronounced two Salina teens dead on the scene from a head-on collision on West Crawford Street.Saline County Sheriff's Office deputies reported to the 2800 block of West Crawford Street at 6:26 p.m. just west of Fairchild Road, where a 2001 silver Chevrolet Camaro struck a 2022 blue Chevrolet Silverado head-on.Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said deputies investigating the case found evidence that the driver of the silver Camaro, 17-year-old Vance McComber, who died in the crash, was drag racing another blue 2017 Chevrolet Camaro before the crash occurred."They're still investigating all the circumstances around it, but at this time, it appears there were indications that they were drag racing west, but for whatever reason, they didn't see the truck coming," Soldan said. "Whether it was the sun or they were distracted by watching what's going on with the guy beside him or what."Soldan said McComber had two passengers in the vehicle with him, 17-year-old Anthony Windell, who sat in the passenger seat and also died in the crash, and 17-year-old Alphonso Torres Ramirez. Local emergency services later transported Torres Ramirez to Salina Regional Health Center with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.The truck, driven by 41-year-old Rosa Vasquez, was traveling eastbound on Crawford with her 12-year-old daughter Judy Vasquez when the vehicles crashed.Soldan said another vehicle was present at the scene of the crash, which veered out of the way of McComber's car before it crashed into Rosa Vasquez's truck.Emergency services also transported Rosa and Judy Vasquez to Salina Regional with severe but non-life-threatening injuries.The second alleged Camaro driver believed to have drag-raced the other Camaro, was identified as a 2017 blue Chevrolet Camaro with one driver and an unknown number of passengers.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/b7b31a77-86e4-4d54-864b-3c6b84ad886d">Abilene Industrial Park Advances with Approval of $1.1 Million Contingent Grant</a>

Two Salina teens pronounced dead at scene of crash on Friday

McDonald's employees called the Salina Police Department on Thursday evening after a resident allegedly kissed an employee's hand after repeatedly attempting to conversate with her.

Restaurant employees reported that the man, later identified as 41-year-old Aaron Werner, had been in the store for three to four hours.

Eventually, between 7 and 7:14 p.m., he approached a 20-year-old female employee and allegedly became disorderly.

"[Werner] kept trying to talk to her, shake her hand, and touch her — eventually, he grabbed her hand and kissed it. She said, 'Whoa,' that wasn't working for her," said SPD Capt. David Villanueva. Right before he left, he was belligerent, yelling in the store and becoming disorderly." 

Villanueva said that after employees had told Werner to leave the store, management called SPD. Werner then left McDonald's and crossed Planet Avenue, where officers found him shortly after.

READ MORE:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6a550354-6897-43ad-9ea4-e99803bd1d61">📸 Flashback Friday: Salina Post - the township of Hedville - Vol. 33</a>

After talking with Werner across the street, officers arrested him. They requested charges for battery, disorderly conduct and interference with a law enforcement officer for crossing the street away from the business.

"Even though it's a misdemeanor offense, the issue is with grabbing a female's hand and kissing it," Villanueva said. "Definitely wasn't welcome conduct or anything like that."  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574271818216.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostMcDonald's employees called the Salina Police Department on Thursday evening after a resident allegedly kissed an employee's hand after repeatedly attempting to conversate with her.Restaurant employees reported that the man, later identified as 41-year-old Aaron Werner, had been in the store for three to four hours.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710507054822.jpeg" alt="Werner, Aaron Thomas. Image courtesy Saline County Jail Bookings" />
 <figcaption>Werner, Aaron Thomas. Image courtesy Saline County Jail Bookings</figcaption>
 </figure>Eventually, between 7 and 7:14 p.m., he approached a 20-year-old female employee and allegedly became disorderly."[Werner] kept trying to talk to her, shake her hand, and touch her — eventually, he grabbed her hand and kissed it. She said, 'Whoa,' that wasn't working for her," said SPD Capt. David Villanueva. Right before he left, he was belligerent, yelling in the store and becoming disorderly." Villanueva said that after employees had told Werner to leave the store, management called SPD. Werner then left McDonald's and crossed Planet Avenue, where officers found him shortly after.READ MORE:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6a550354-6897-43ad-9ea4-e99803bd1d61">📸 Flashback Friday: Salina Post - the township of Hedville - Vol. 33</a> After talking with Werner across the street, officers arrested him. They requested charges for battery, disorderly conduct and interference with a law enforcement officer for crossing the street away from the business."Even though it's a misdemeanor offense, the issue is with grabbing a female's hand and kissing it," Villanueva said. "Definitely wasn't welcome conduct or anything like that."

Salina man arrested after allegedly becoming disorderly in McDonald's

Salina Post proudly presents Flashback Friday in partnership with the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.smokyhillmuseum.org/">Smoky Hill Museum</a>. Enjoy a weekly tidbit of local history from the staff at Salina Post and the Smoky Hill Museum as we present "Salina-Flashback Fridays."

Although the township of Hedville was never officially incorporated, its impact on the Saline County rural community still holds weight today.

On Mulberry Creek Crossing in 1905, two brothers, Axel and Elmer Hedquist, opened a general store and blacksmith shop on the site that would become the town of Hedville.

The brothers continued business in the area, witnessing a few more homes pop up around their stores until a decade later when a regional rail line brought business to the town.

Situated in its small valley, Hedville began to grow in 1915 after the Salina Northern Railroad built a line nearby, according to the Smoky Hill Museum.

After the railroad arrived, so did local business. Soon, the town boasted a lumberyard, hardware store, grain elevator and filling station. The Hedville State Bank opened the same year, and only two years later, the founders established the Immanuel Lutheran Church.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6e33afb3-987d-4a83-9700-eb1655512aac">📸 Flashback Friday: Salina Post - Salina Natatorium - Vol. 32</a>

Hedville continued its business, growing with more families arriving and establishing themselves in the community. Hardships would soon strike with the arrival of The Great Depression.

Like similar Great Plains towns, the 1930s arrived in Hedville with ruthless consequences. According to the Smoky Hill Museum, the bank and many businesses closed in town, with the Immanuel Church closing its doors for good in 1938.

Only two decades after the decimating Great Depression for the town, Hedville's rural school closed from the 1960s statewide consolidation of public schools.

A few residents of Hedville stayed in the town, and although little remains of its early 20th-century growth, the small community found a new revival at the turn of this century with the Rolling Hills Zoo.

Rolling Hills Zoo opened in 1999 with only a few barn animals just south of town, and today, it has become a major Kansas tourist attraction.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691164615840.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Post proudly presents Flashback Friday in partnership with the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.smokyhillmuseum.org/">Smoky Hill Museum</a>. Enjoy a weekly tidbit of local history from the staff at Salina Post and the Smoky Hill Museum as we present "Salina-Flashback Fridays."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710534157083.jpeg" alt="Hedville welcome sign. Image courtesy Smoky Hill Museum" />
 <figcaption>Hedville welcome sign. Image courtesy Smoky Hill Museum</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTAlthough the township of Hedville was never officially incorporated, its impact on the Saline County rural community still holds weight today.On Mulberry Creek Crossing in 1905, two brothers, Axel and Elmer Hedquist, opened a general store and blacksmith shop on the site that would become the town of Hedville.The brothers continued business in the area, witnessing a few more homes pop up around their stores until a decade later when a regional rail line brought business to the town.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710534300234.jpeg" alt="Hedville Main Street, date unknown. Image courtesy Smoky Hill Museum" />
 <figcaption>Hedville Main Street, date unknown. Image courtesy Smoky Hill Museum</figcaption>
 </figure>Situated in its small valley, Hedville began to grow in 1915 after the Salina Northern Railroad built a line nearby, according to the Smoky Hill Museum.After the railroad arrived, so did local business. Soon, the town boasted a lumberyard, hardware store, grain elevator and filling station. The Hedville State Bank opened the same year, and only two years later, the founders established the Immanuel Lutheran Church.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710534513138.jpeg" alt="On the back reads, "Headville Band." (sic Hedville) The donor labeled this as the Mulberry Band, 1908. Image courtesy Smoky Hill Museum" />
 <figcaption>On the back reads, "Headville Band." (sic Hedville) The donor labeled this as the Mulberry Band, 1908. Image courtesy Smoky Hill Museum</figcaption>
 </figure>READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6e33afb3-987d-4a83-9700-eb1655512aac">📸 Flashback Friday: Salina Post - Salina Natatorium - Vol. 32</a>Hedville continued its business, growing with more families arriving and establishing themselves in the community. Hardships would soon strike with the arrival of The Great Depression.Like similar Great Plains towns, the 1930s arrived in Hedville with ruthless consequences. According to the Smoky Hill Museum, the bank and many businesses closed in town, with the Immanuel Church closing its doors for good in 1938.Only two decades after the decimating Great Depression for the town, Hedville's rural school closed from the 1960s statewide consolidation of public schools.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706543859875.jpeg" alt="The entrance to Rolling Hills Zoo, RHZ, in rural Saline County. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The entrance to Rolling Hills Zoo, RHZ, in rural Saline County. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>A few residents of Hedville stayed in the town, and although little remains of its early 20th-century growth, the small community found a new revival at the turn of this century with the Rolling Hills Zoo.Rolling Hills Zoo opened in 1999 with only a few barn animals just south of town, and today, it has become a major Kansas tourist attraction.&nbsp;

📸 Flashback Friday: Salina Post - the township of Hedville - Vol. 33

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.

<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>