Gary Lew Hale July 2, 1937 ~ June 15, 2024

Gary Lew Hale, a beloved husband, father, farmer, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2024, at the age of 86. Born in Concordia, Kansas, on July 2, 1937, to Wilbur and Alice Hale, Gary lived a life marked by kindness, service, and community spirit.

Gary spent his early years in Simpson, Kansas, where he attended high school. Known for his gentle demeanor and willingness to help others, Gary was a cherished member of his community from a young age.

In 1960, after serving two years in the US Army, Gary returned to Salina, Kansas, where he began a long and fulfilling career with Evans Grain Company. His dedication to his work and his colleagues was evident throughout his years of service.

On April 20, 1963, Gary married the love of his life, Joyce Heidrick. Their marriage, spanning over four decades, was a testament to their enduring love and partnership. Together, they raised two daughters, Alison Monsanto and Andrea Hale, who were the pride and joy of Gary's life.

Gary had a lifelong passion for high school and college basketball and football. He was often seen listening to one game on his FM Walkman while attending another game in person. His enthusiasm for sports extended beyond just watching the games; he actively volunteered at many tournament games held at the Salina Bicentennial Center. His contributions to the local sports community were greatly appreciated and will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

In his later years, Gary cherished his daily coffee outings with friends. These gatherings were a highlight of his day, filled with laughter, stories, and camaraderie.

Gary is remembered for his incredibly kind heart. He was the type of person who would do anything for anyone and never had a bad word to say about anyone. His positive outlook on life and his generosity of spirit touched the lives of many.

Gary was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joyce, and their daughters, Alison Monsanto and Andrea Hale. Though his heart endured these profound losses, he continued to embody resilience and kindness.

Gary Lew Hale is survived by his granddaughters, Haley Crossley and Mary Bondio, as well as his great-grandchildren. He is also survived by many friends and extended family members. His legacy of kindness, service, and community involvement will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.

A memorial service will be held&nbsp;on Saturday, June 29th&nbsp;at Sunrise Presbyterian Church in Salina, KS&nbsp;at 11 a.m.&nbsp;to celebrate Gary's remarkable life.

Gary's gentle soul and loving nature will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May he rest in peace.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/895f950d-3e88-4389-82a0-2b0f657953a0">Salina Juneteenth celebrations this week</a>

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718807427165.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Gary Lew Hale July 2, 1937 ~ June 15, 2024Gary Lew Hale, a beloved husband, father, farmer, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2024, at the age of 86. Born in Concordia, Kansas, on July 2, 1937, to Wilbur and Alice Hale, Gary lived a life marked by kindness, service, and community spirit.Gary spent his early years in Simpson, Kansas, where he attended high school. Known for his gentle demeanor and willingness to help others, Gary was a cherished member of his community from a young age.In 1960, after serving two years in the US Army, Gary returned to Salina, Kansas, where he began a long and fulfilling career with Evans Grain Company. His dedication to his work and his colleagues was evident throughout his years of service.On April 20, 1963, Gary married the love of his life, Joyce Heidrick. Their marriage, spanning over four decades, was a testament to their enduring love and partnership. Together, they raised two daughters, Alison Monsanto and Andrea Hale, who were the pride and joy of Gary's life.Gary had a lifelong passion for high school and college basketball and football. He was often seen listening to one game on his FM Walkman while attending another game in person. His enthusiasm for sports extended beyond just watching the games; he actively volunteered at many tournament games held at the Salina Bicentennial Center. His contributions to the local sports community were greatly appreciated and will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.In his later years, Gary cherished his daily coffee outings with friends. These gatherings were a highlight of his day, filled with laughter, stories, and camaraderie.Gary is remembered for his incredibly kind heart. He was the type of person who would do anything for anyone and never had a bad word to say about anyone. His positive outlook on life and his generosity of spirit touched the lives of many.Gary was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joyce, and their daughters, Alison Monsanto and Andrea Hale. Though his heart endured these profound losses, he continued to embody resilience and kindness.Gary Lew Hale is survived by his granddaughters, Haley Crossley and Mary Bondio, as well as his great-grandchildren. He is also survived by many friends and extended family members. His legacy of kindness, service, and community involvement will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.A memorial service will be held&nbsp;on Saturday, June 29th&nbsp;at Sunrise Presbyterian Church in Salina, KS&nbsp;at 11 a.m.&nbsp;to celebrate Gary's remarkable life.Gary's gentle soul and loving nature will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May he rest in peace.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/895f950d-3e88-4389-82a0-2b0f657953a0">Salina Juneteenth celebrations this week</a>

Gary L. Hale

Debby Lee Anne Christensen December 15, 1969 ~ May 31, 2024

Debby’s life began on December 15, 1969, in El Paso, Texas. She is the daughter of Michael and Sharen (Sullivan) White. Debby graduated from high school in 1988 in Waynesville Missouri. She then went on to attend Cloud County Community College. Debby was a very hard worker and enjoyed working at The Family Dollar in Herington. Debby’s coworkers soon became like family. Debby also worked at Kay’s Pharmacy, Clark Lumber, and Barnes’ Grocery. &nbsp;When Debby wasn’t hard at work, she loved sitting outside and watching the animals. Debby loved all animals, but especially enjoyed the squirrels and buzzards. She also enjoyed watching the Red Birds visit. Debby could also be found listening to Harry Styles music.

Debby, at the age of 54, passed away on May 31, 2024, at her home in Herington. She is preceded in death by her father, Michael; and fur babies Wyatt and Riley. Debby is survived by her mother Sharen (Bruce Ballard) White; daughter, Hannah (Trevor Williams) Oswald; and fur baby Oliver.

Services for Debby will be held at a later date. Yazel Megli Funeral Home, Herington, is serving the family. Memorial contributions in Debby’s name may be directed to an Animal Related charity, as animals were a passion of Debby’s. Please sign her online guestbook and leave a memory of Debby at www.yazelmeglifh.com.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/7e26158f-be6a-4c99-91b4-2ee353cbaafe">Red Fern Booksellers hosting author talk and book signing event next week</a>

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 </figure>Debby Lee Anne Christensen December 15, 1969 ~ May 31, 2024 Debby’s life began on December 15, 1969, in El Paso, Texas. She is the daughter of Michael and Sharen (Sullivan) White. Debby graduated from high school in 1988 in Waynesville Missouri. She then went on to attend Cloud County Community College. Debby was a very hard worker and enjoyed working at The Family Dollar in Herington. Debby’s coworkers soon became like family. Debby also worked at Kay’s Pharmacy, Clark Lumber, and Barnes’ Grocery. &nbsp;When Debby wasn’t hard at work, she loved sitting outside and watching the animals. Debby loved all animals, but especially enjoyed the squirrels and buzzards. She also enjoyed watching the Red Birds visit. Debby could also be found listening to Harry Styles music.Debby, at the age of 54, passed away on May 31, 2024, at her home in Herington. She is preceded in death by her father, Michael; and fur babies Wyatt and Riley. Debby is survived by her mother Sharen (Bruce Ballard) White; daughter, Hannah (Trevor Williams) Oswald; and fur baby Oliver.Services for Debby will be held at a later date. Yazel Megli Funeral Home, Herington, is serving the family. Memorial contributions in Debby’s name may be directed to an Animal Related charity, as animals were a passion of Debby’s. Please sign her online guestbook and leave a memory of Debby at www.yazelmeglifh.com.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/7e26158f-be6a-4c99-91b4-2ee353cbaafe">Red Fern Booksellers hosting author talk and book signing event next week</a>

 Debby Lee Anne Christensen

Charles “Chuck” Gregory Monroe March 6, 1954 ~ June 9, 2024

Charles “Chuck” Gregory Monroe, born on March 6, 1954, in Wichita, Kansas, passed away on June 9, 2024, in Salina, Kansas, after a long illness.

Chuck was the beloved son of Herb and Ima Jean Monroe (Prather).

Chuck, known to his friends and family as a vibrant and colorful soul, leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and creativity. He touched the hearts of some and will be deeply missed by the few who knew him.

Graduating from Emporia State University, Chuck embarked on a journey that led him through various roles within the cable television industry. His travels took him far and wide, but it was in Louisiana that he found a special place in his heart for the South. After retiring, he continued to explore the region, drawn to its charm and hospitality.

Before his retirement, Chuck owned and operated Vita Villa in Abilene and Salina, a colorful oasis that reflected his zest for life. His love for colors, textures, and patterns extended beyond his business to his home, the cabin at Red Bud Lake and his wardrobe, always seeking the unique and unconventional. Chuck's passion for the arts was evident in his frequent attendance at the Smoky Hill River Festival and various art shows across Wichita, Kansas City, and Santa Fe.

A devoted sports fan, Chuck enjoyed watching baseball and Kansas Cagerz basketball games with his dad, Herb. Always finding joy in the thrill of the game. He also had a fondness for gardening, nurturing his plants with care and dedication. An avid listener of audiobooks, Chuck's thirst for knowledge and simple curiosity accompanied him on his many adventures.

Chuck's love for animals was unwavering, and his companions Gepetto and later Murphy, his beloved golden retrievers, held a special place in his heart. His compassionate nature extended to supporting the Saline County Humane Society.

Chuck is preceded in death by his parents, Herb and Ima Jean Monroe, and his sister Cathy. He is survived by his niece, Amy Ankrum of Salina, as well as sons: Josh (Beth) Wineland, Chauncey (Brooke) Kuhl and Kelly (Megan) Kuhl . Grandchildren: Sawyer, Whitney, Cali and Fin Wineland, Tillie Kuhl and soon to be, Maxxwel Kuhl.

A celebration of Chuck's life will be held at Ryan Mortuary &amp; Crematory on 137 North 8th Street in Salina, KS, on June 21, 2024, from 9:00-11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Chuck’s memory can be made to the Saline County Humane Society.

Chuck Monroe's private and quiet life, led to many walks with his dogs, with Amy accompanying him occasionally. He enjoyed his solitude and his travels, sometimes chatting up the errant passerby.

<figure>
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 </figure>Charles “Chuck” Gregory Monroe March 6, 1954 ~ June 9, 2024Charles “Chuck” Gregory Monroe, born on March 6, 1954, in Wichita, Kansas, passed away on June 9, 2024, in Salina, Kansas, after a long illness.Chuck was the beloved son of Herb and Ima Jean Monroe (Prather).Chuck, known to his friends and family as a vibrant and colorful soul, leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and creativity. He touched the hearts of some and will be deeply missed by the few who knew him.Graduating from Emporia State University, Chuck embarked on a journey that led him through various roles within the cable television industry. His travels took him far and wide, but it was in Louisiana that he found a special place in his heart for the South. After retiring, he continued to explore the region, drawn to its charm and hospitality.Before his retirement, Chuck owned and operated Vita Villa in Abilene and Salina, a colorful oasis that reflected his zest for life. His love for colors, textures, and patterns extended beyond his business to his home, the cabin at Red Bud Lake and his wardrobe, always seeking the unique and unconventional. Chuck's passion for the arts was evident in his frequent attendance at the Smoky Hill River Festival and various art shows across Wichita, Kansas City, and Santa Fe.A devoted sports fan, Chuck enjoyed watching baseball and Kansas Cagerz basketball games with his dad, Herb. Always finding joy in the thrill of the game. He also had a fondness for gardening, nurturing his plants with care and dedication. An avid listener of audiobooks, Chuck's thirst for knowledge and simple curiosity accompanied him on his many adventures.Chuck's love for animals was unwavering, and his companions Gepetto and later Murphy, his beloved golden retrievers, held a special place in his heart. His compassionate nature extended to supporting the Saline County Humane Society.Chuck is preceded in death by his parents, Herb and Ima Jean Monroe, and his sister Cathy. He is survived by his niece, Amy Ankrum of Salina, as well as sons: Josh (Beth) Wineland, Chauncey (Brooke) Kuhl and Kelly (Megan) Kuhl . Grandchildren: Sawyer, Whitney, Cali and Fin Wineland, Tillie Kuhl and soon to be, Maxxwel Kuhl.A celebration of Chuck's life will be held at Ryan Mortuary &amp; Crematory on 137 North 8th Street in Salina, KS, on June 21, 2024, from 9:00-11:00 AM.In lieu of flowers, donations in Chuck’s memory can be made to the Saline County Humane Society.Chuck Monroe's private and quiet life, led to many walks with his dogs, with Amy accompanying him occasionally. He enjoyed his solitude and his travels, sometimes chatting up the errant passerby.May you continue on your journey, Chuck.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/7e26158f-be6a-4c99-91b4-2ee353cbaafe">Red Fern Booksellers hosting author talk and book signing event next week</a>

Charles “Chuck” G. Monroe

The next generation of Kansas scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians needs quality experiences and knowledgeable teachers, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Salina</a>&nbsp;has helped lead the way through several recent STEM educational opportunities to support K-12 educators.

One outreach project consisted of a drone racing competition designed for middle school students. K-State Salina's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/research-training/applied-aviation-research-center/" target="_blank">Applied Aviation Research Center</a>, or AARC, provided training for each school's instructor to help students compete in drone design, engineering, overall speed and skill of flying the drone. Students then competed from their respective schools around the state, including in Salina, Great Bend, Gypsum, Kansas City and Topeka.

LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/2a3112e7-837c-4f7e-a311-df8dc6cf0aba">🎙King in the Community: K-State Salina Dean and CEO Alysia Starkey</a>

"STEM education is an important emphasis in many assets in life and helps build a promising future for any student," Kurt Carraway, K-State Salina uncrewed aircraft systems department head and AARC executive director said. "As a leader in drone education, safety and research, we take great pride in sharing our expertise with our fellow educators from around Kansas. Our industry is one that is constantly evolving as technology progresses. It is important to be able to prepare the next generation to have a base knowledge of uncrewed aircraft operations and regulations."

K-State Salina also partnered with the&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Education</a>, which is leading&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/stem-career-education/about/leapes.html" target="_blank">Project LEAPES</a>. The initiative — which is an acronym for Learning, Exploration and Application for Prospective Engineering Students —seeks to improve rural education in Kansas by offering free training and thousands of dollars in resources for teachers.

Through this project, K-State Salina hosted on-campus learning in STEM-related courses, including training in areas of expertise that include robotics, aviation, uncrewed aircraft systems and computer science. Faculty experts from the campus provided collegiate-level training and knowledge to instructors.

"We are excited to collaborate with the College of Education on the Project LEAPES Virtual Camp. Our campus is committed to supporting education outreach for all Kansans," said Troy Harding, department head of K-State Salina integrated studies. "These trainings and camps get technology into the hands of K-12 educators and their students. We hope this will ignite a passion in students leading to science and engineering careers."

As K-State Salina continues to support the university's mission of becoming a next-generation land-grant, the campus continues to focus on expanding its offering of these engagement programs to help the university increase its annual impact in the community, region and state.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718631429771.jpeg" alt="K-State Salina has provided numerous STEM training opportunities through its expertise in technology and engineering to Kansas K-12 students and educators. Photo Courtesy K-State Salina Communications and Marketing " />
 <figcaption>K-State Salina has provided numerous STEM training opportunities through its expertise in technology and engineering to Kansas K-12 students and educators. Photo Courtesy K-State Salina Communications and Marketing </figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe next generation of Kansas scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians needs quality experiences and knowledgeable teachers, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Salina</a>&nbsp;has helped lead the way through several recent STEM educational opportunities to support K-12 educators.One outreach project consisted of a drone racing competition designed for middle school students. K-State Salina's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/research-training/applied-aviation-research-center/" target="_blank">Applied Aviation Research Center</a>, or AARC, provided training for each school's instructor to help students compete in drone design, engineering, overall speed and skill of flying the drone. Students then competed from their respective schools around the state, including in Salina, Great Bend, Gypsum, Kansas City and Topeka.LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/2a3112e7-837c-4f7e-a311-df8dc6cf0aba">🎙King in the Community: K-State Salina Dean and CEO Alysia Starkey</a>"STEM education is an important emphasis in many assets in life and helps build a promising future for any student," Kurt Carraway, K-State Salina uncrewed aircraft systems department head and AARC executive director said. "As a leader in drone education, safety and research, we take great pride in sharing our expertise with our fellow educators from around Kansas. Our industry is one that is constantly evolving as technology progresses. It is important to be able to prepare the next generation to have a base knowledge of uncrewed aircraft operations and regulations."K-State Salina also partnered with the&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Education</a>, which is leading&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/stem-career-education/about/leapes.html" target="_blank">Project LEAPES</a>. The initiative — which is an acronym for Learning, Exploration and Application for Prospective Engineering Students —seeks to improve rural education in Kansas by offering free training and thousands of dollars in resources for teachers.Through this project, K-State Salina hosted on-campus learning in STEM-related courses, including training in areas of expertise that include robotics, aviation, uncrewed aircraft systems and computer science. Faculty experts from the campus provided collegiate-level training and knowledge to instructors."We are excited to collaborate with the College of Education on the Project LEAPES Virtual Camp. Our campus is committed to supporting education outreach for all Kansans," said Troy Harding, department head of K-State Salina integrated studies. "These trainings and camps get technology into the hands of K-12 educators and their students. We hope this will ignite a passion in students leading to science and engineering careers."As K-State Salina continues to support the university's mission of becoming a next-generation land-grant, the campus continues to focus on expanding its offering of these engagement programs to help the university increase its annual impact in the community, region and state.

K-State Salina brings no-cost STEM training for K-12 educators

Smoky Hill River Festival officials made an announcement at 3:45 p.m. on Saturday about a temporary suspension of programming due to lightning, rain, and gusty winds that could affect the area at 4 p.m. The park remained open, but all programming ceased at that time. At approximately 4:15 p.m. significant wind and light to moderate rain fell. Estimated 70+ mph winds caused damage to some trees in the park.

"About eight artist booths suffered structural damage and loss of product," according to a statement from Salina Arts and Humanities. "Additionally, some tree damage in the park occurred. A full assessment of the damage is underway. Some minor injuries occurred but no one requested treatment."

Salina Post will provide an update as new information becomes available.

By COLETTE STRASNER Salina Post Contributor

This weekend’s Smoky Hill River Festival provides an amazing venue for artists of all kinds to gather and present their work in Salina. Salina Post sat down with several of the event artists to give you a closer look into the individuals behind the works presented at the event.

Devin Johnson, artist, and owner of Makeshift Accessories, traveled all the way from Northfield, Minn. to participate in the festival. This year marked Johnson’s first time joining in the Smoky Hill River Festival.

Makeshift Accessories started in 2008, with a unique concept of forging art and accessories by recycling industrial and cultural artifacts: antique bronze machinery, copper wire, and century-old harness leather, just to name a few. The event stuck out to Johnson for its variety of attractions as well as a large turnout for an urban center.

“One thing that’s different about it is that it’s by far the biggest thing going on in the entire town right now,” said Johnson.&nbsp;

Johnson made note of the excitement and chatter surrounding the event as he went out to dinner after Thursday’s festivities.&nbsp;

“That’s all anyone was talking about at the bar,” Johnson said.

Jen Unekis, winner of the Smoky Hill River Festival’s purchase award and artist from Lawrence, KS, spoke of her experience with the event as well. This year’s event was her fourth time participating in the Smoky Hill River Festival.&nbsp;

“I think Salina has just a really great art community, everybody seems to come out and your volunteers are amazing … I coordinate Art in the Park in Lawrence, so I see it from the backside. It’s really, really cool to just see how well organized it is,” Unekis said.&nbsp;

Currently located in Lawrence, Unekis moved to the state from California. Her father moved them to a farmhouse in rural Kansas when she was just four years old. When she was in high school, Unekis' art teacher told her that she was not college material.

READ MORE:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/0ebdb0d0-3981-471c-8571-1f1e0d5174e0">&nbsp;📸 SM Hanson Festival Jam 2024</a>

Despite her teacher’s discouragement, Unekis got her start as an artist studying ceramics before moving to multimedia assemblage pieces. She eventually came full circle, painting her works on ceramics, specifically Venetian plaster.&nbsp;

Her pieces are painted with several different tools, from airbrushes to glass pencils, to capture the inspiration she feels from children’s drawings. Unekis uses these mediums as well as recognizable shapes in an abstract way to capture a unique feeling of nostalgia in her work.

While artists connected with patrons and community members, musicians jammed out on three stages at the festival.&nbsp;

Becky Bliss, member of the band Barnaby Bright, shared some details on her band’s history. Based out of the Kansas City area, Barnaby Bright is an indie folk-rock group that performed Friday night on the Eric Stein Stage.

While Bliss described her group’s sound as indie folk-rock, she also felt that was simplifying things.

“Americana is what we’re deeply rooted in, but we’d like to push the boundaries a little bit,” Bliss said.

Barnaby Bliss released their first album in 2009 and their most recent record, a Christmas album, in 2020. 

“Well, if you want to check us out, it’s <a href="http://barnabybright.com">barnabybright.com</a>, and Barnaby Bright is actually the medieval English word for the summer solstice, June 21," Bliss said.&nbsp;

The group came to the Smoky Hill River Festival at the recommendation of long-time event participant Brandon Draper, a member of other groups, Draper Family Band and Drum Safari.

LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d65fcc61-d99e-4df1-9ab9-a2ec97d8cc73">🎙King in the Community — Sarah Keck, Smoky Hill River Festival</a>

Originally from Houston, Texas, musician Scott Mulvahill wowed audience members with his unconventional approach to playing the bass. Despite his extensive background in jazz bass from college, he initially wrote songs influenced by those who used guitar and piano.

"I was doing a tour with Ricky Skaggs and Bruce Hornsby, and I was playing bass in the band, and this was like ten years ago, but I asked Bruce, 'Hey, would you listen to some of the songs I'm working on. And Bruce was like, 'Sure, man,'" Mulvahill said. " I wasn't even playing bass. because most of my heroes wrote songs on guitar and piano and stuff.

Mulvahill said that after his conversation with Hornsby, Mulvahill started writing songs on the bass.

"When we had that conversation, he [Hornsby] was like, 'Man, you should really like to try to reach for something more you,'" Mulvahill said. "I already had been writing songs and already been singing, but I kind of had two careers in a way that was like two personalities. I was the Bass Player side guy and then and then I liked writing songs, but I didn't put the two together until after that conversation. It was like a lightbulb thing."

The many talented artists and musicians at the Smoky Hill River Festival are a driving force for people to come out to the event. Salina Post spoke with brothers Nathaniel and Atticus Reynolds, on their relationship with the festival.

Atticus, 14, from Salina, has been coming to the Smoky Hill River Festival since he was four years old. His favorite band this weekend was Draper Family Band, a father-and-son group led by Salina natives Paul and Brandon Draper.&nbsp;

The Drapers have a unique musical sound that combines blues, rock, funk and alt-country. Their 30 years of performances led to Draper Family Band being inducted into the Kansas Music Hall of Fame in 2020.

Nathaniel, 12, from Salina, particularly enjoys walking around the festival to view the artist booths. Together, the brothers enjoy experiencing the Smoky Hill River Festival with their friends as well.

Salina residents weren't the only ones soaking in the rays and wide variety of food and music. Fred Beissner, 27, and Sofia Fiscal, 28, a couple from Los Angeles, flew into Kansas this week so they could attend the Smoky Hill River Festival.

"My dad grew up here and he has a house here within walking distance of the park," Beissner said. "We're also visiting with some family while we are here."

This year marks Fred's fifth festival, and Sofia's first.

"I would say the food vendors and all the art definitely is my favorite part of the festival," Beissner said.&nbsp;

Saturday, June 15 marks the third day of the Smoky Hill River Festival. There are still plenty of performances, food, and art to experience before the festival closes at the end of the day on Sunday, June 16.&nbsp;

Don’t miss this chance to take part in the some of the best that Salina has to offer.

For more information check out <a href="http://riverfestival.com">riverfestival.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718490905483.jpeg" alt="Storm damage across the artist tents at the Smoky Hill River Festival on Saturday, June 15 at Oakdale Park in Salina. Image courtesy Saline County Emergency Management" />
 <figcaption>Storm damage across the artist tents at the Smoky Hill River Festival on Saturday, June 15 at Oakdale Park in Salina. Image courtesy Saline County Emergency Management</figcaption>
 </figure>Updated 6/15/24 at 6:43 p.m.Salina Arts and HumanitiesSmoky Hill River Festival officials made an announcement at 3:45 p.m. on Saturday about a temporary suspension of programming due to lightning, rain, and gusty winds that could affect the area at 4 p.m. The park remained open, but all programming ceased at that time. At approximately 4:15 p.m. significant wind and light to moderate rain fell. Estimated 70+ mph winds caused damage to some trees in the park."About eight artist booths suffered structural damage and loss of product," according to a statement from Salina Arts and Humanities. "Additionally, some tree damage in the park occurred. A full assessment of the damage is underway. Some minor injuries occurred but no one requested treatment."Festival programming resumed at 6 p.m.Salina Post will provide an update as new information becomes available.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718490645894.jpeg" alt="Photos from Saline County Emergency Management via NWS Wichita. 77mph wind gust at Salina Regional Airport at 4:08 pm. Evergy power outage map showed 371 electric customers without power from 22 outages in Salina. Trees, power poles down in town according NWS report from Saline County Emergency Management. Blowing dust caused visibility issues on Interstate 135 causing a semi to roll onto its side on I-135 near the Magnolia Street exit." />
 <figcaption>Photos from Saline County Emergency Management via NWS Wichita. 77mph wind gust at Salina Regional Airport at 4:08 pm. Evergy power outage map showed 371 electric customers without power from 22 outages in Salina. Trees, power poles down in town according NWS report from Saline County Emergency Management. Blowing dust caused visibility issues on Interstate 135 causing a semi to roll onto its side on I-135 near the Magnolia Street exit.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718478120275.jpeg" alt="Friends of the River Foundation Executive Director Jane Anderson and her puppet pal Bella Beaver lead YMCA kids through Oakdale Park during the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival on Friday, June 14. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Friends of the River Foundation Executive Director Jane Anderson and her puppet pal Bella Beaver lead YMCA kids through Oakdale Park during the 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival on Friday, June 14. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLETTE STRASNER Salina Post ContributorThis weekend’s Smoky Hill River Festival provides an amazing venue for artists of all kinds to gather and present their work in Salina. Salina Post sat down with several of the event artists to give you a closer look into the individuals behind the works presented at the event.Devin Johnson, artist, and owner of Makeshift Accessories, traveled all the way from Northfield, Minn. to participate in the festival. This year marked Johnson’s first time joining in the Smoky Hill River Festival.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718479014802.jpeg" alt="Devin Johnson, owner of Makeshift Accessories from Northfield, Minn., chats with a customer, Peyton Ott from Kansas City, during the Smoky Hill River Festival on Friday, June 14, in Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Devin Johnson, owner of Makeshift Accessories from Northfield, Minn., chats with a customer, Peyton Ott from Kansas City, during the Smoky Hill River Festival on Friday, June 14, in Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Makeshift Accessories started in 2008, with a unique concept of forging art and accessories by recycling industrial and cultural artifacts: antique bronze machinery, copper wire, and century-old harness leather, just to name a few. The event stuck out to Johnson for its variety of attractions as well as a large turnout for an urban center.“One thing that’s different about it is that it’s by far the biggest thing going on in the entire town right now,” said Johnson.&nbsp;Johnson made note of the excitement and chatter surrounding the event as he went out to dinner after Thursday’s festivities.&nbsp;“That’s all anyone was talking about at the bar,” Johnson said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718479332148.jpeg" alt="Jen Unekis, an artist from Lawrence, Kan., sits ready for customers to browse and buy her abstract art on Friday, June 14, during the Smoky Hill River Festival at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Jen Unekis, an artist from Lawrence, Kan., sits ready for customers to browse and buy her abstract art on Friday, June 14, during the Smoky Hill River Festival at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Jen Unekis, winner of the Smoky Hill River Festival’s purchase award and artist from Lawrence, KS, spoke of her experience with the event as well. This year’s event was her fourth time participating in the Smoky Hill River Festival.&nbsp;“I think Salina has just a really great art community, everybody seems to come out and your volunteers are amazing … I coordinate Art in the Park in Lawrence, so I see it from the backside. It’s really, really cool to just see how well organized it is,” Unekis said.&nbsp;Currently located in Lawrence, Unekis moved to the state from California. Her father moved them to a farmhouse in rural Kansas when she was just four years old. When she was in high school, Unekis' art teacher told her that she was not college material.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718479513196.jpeg" alt="Katie Brown paints the bathrooms near the entrance to Oakdale Park as one of the performing artists during the Smoky Hill River Festival on Friday, June 14. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Katie Brown paints the bathrooms near the entrance to Oakdale Park as one of the performing artists during the Smoky Hill River Festival on Friday, June 14. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>READ MORE:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/0ebdb0d0-3981-471c-8571-1f1e0d5174e0">&nbsp;📸 SM Hanson Festival Jam 2024</a>Despite her teacher’s discouragement, Unekis got her start as an artist studying ceramics before moving to multimedia assemblage pieces. She eventually came full circle, painting her works on ceramics, specifically Venetian plaster.&nbsp;Her pieces are painted with several different tools, from airbrushes to glass pencils, to capture the inspiration she feels from children’s drawings. Unekis uses these mediums as well as recognizable shapes in an abstract way to capture a unique feeling of nostalgia in her work.While artists connected with patrons and community members, musicians jammed out on three stages at the festival.&nbsp;Becky Bliss, member of the band Barnaby Bright, shared some details on her band’s history. Based out of the Kansas City area, Barnaby Bright is an indie folk-rock group that performed Friday night on the Eric Stein Stage.While Bliss described her group’s sound as indie folk-rock, she also felt that was simplifying things.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718479188566.jpeg" alt="The Superfonicos performs on the Eric Stein Stage during the Smoky Hill River Festival on Friday, June 14, at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The Superfonicos performs on the Eric Stein Stage during the Smoky Hill River Festival on Friday, June 14, at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>“Americana is what we’re deeply rooted in, but we’d like to push the boundaries a little bit,” Bliss said.Barnaby Bliss released their first album in 2009 and their most recent record, a Christmas album, in 2020. “Well, if you want to check us out, it’s <a href="http://barnabybright.com">barnabybright.com</a>, and Barnaby Bright is actually the medieval English word for the summer solstice, June 21," Bliss said.&nbsp;The group came to the Smoky Hill River Festival at the recommendation of long-time event participant Brandon Draper, a member of other groups, Draper Family Band and Drum Safari.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718479247616.jpeg" alt="Fruit Pizzas and custom drinks sit ready for customers at Honey &amp; Rue's during the Smoky Hill River Festival on Friday, June 14, at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Fruit Pizzas and custom drinks sit ready for customers at Honey &amp; Rue's during the Smoky Hill River Festival on Friday, June 14, at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d65fcc61-d99e-4df1-9ab9-a2ec97d8cc73">🎙King in the Community — Sarah Keck, Smoky Hill River Festival</a>Originally from Houston, Texas, musician Scott Mulvahill wowed audience members with his unconventional approach to playing the bass. Despite his extensive background in jazz bass from college, he initially wrote songs influenced by those who used guitar and piano."I was doing a tour with Ricky Skaggs and Bruce Hornsby, and I was playing bass in the band, and this was like ten years ago, but I asked Bruce, 'Hey, would you listen to some of the songs I'm working on. And Bruce was like, 'Sure, man,'" Mulvahill said. " I wasn't even playing bass. because most of my heroes wrote songs on guitar and piano and stuff.Mulvahill said that after his conversation with Hornsby, Mulvahill started writing songs on the bass."When we had that conversation, he [Hornsby] was like, 'Man, you should really like to try to reach for something more you,'" Mulvahill said. "I already had been writing songs and already been singing, but I kind of had two careers in a way that was like two personalities. I was the Bass Player side guy and then and then I liked writing songs, but I didn't put the two together until after that conversation. It was like a lightbulb thing."The many talented artists and musicians at the Smoky Hill River Festival are a driving force for people to come out to the event. Salina Post spoke with brothers Nathaniel and Atticus Reynolds, on their relationship with the festival.Atticus, 14, from Salina, has been coming to the Smoky Hill River Festival since he was four years old. His favorite band this weekend was Draper Family Band, a father-and-son group led by Salina natives Paul and Brandon Draper.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718479584645.jpeg" alt="Visitors browse the East Art Show at the Smoky Hill River Festival on Friday, June 14, at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Visitors browse the East Art Show at the Smoky Hill River Festival on Friday, June 14, at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>The Drapers have a unique musical sound that combines blues, rock, funk and alt-country. Their 30 years of performances led to Draper Family Band being inducted into the Kansas Music Hall of Fame in 2020.Nathaniel, 12, from Salina, particularly enjoys walking around the festival to view the artist booths. Together, the brothers enjoy experiencing the Smoky Hill River Festival with their friends as well.Salina residents weren't the only ones soaking in the rays and wide variety of food and music. Fred Beissner, 27, and Sofia Fiscal, 28, a couple from Los Angeles, flew into Kansas this week so they could attend the Smoky Hill River Festival.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718476813309.jpeg" alt="Fred Beissner, 27, and Sofia Fiscal, 28, a couple from Los Angeles, flew into Kansas this week so they could attend the Smoky Hill River Festival. Photo by Kat Woods, Salina Post contributor" />
 <figcaption>Fred Beissner, 27, and Sofia Fiscal, 28, a couple from Los Angeles, flew into Kansas this week so they could attend the Smoky Hill River Festival. Photo by Kat Woods, Salina Post contributor</figcaption>
 </figure>"My dad grew up here and he has a house here within walking distance of the park," Beissner said. "We're also visiting with some family while we are here."This year marks Fred's fifth festival, and Sofia's first."I would say the food vendors and all the art definitely is my favorite part of the festival," Beissner said.&nbsp;Saturday, June 15 marks the third day of the Smoky Hill River Festival. There are still plenty of performances, food, and art to experience before the festival closes at the end of the day on Sunday, June 16.&nbsp;Don’t miss this chance to take part in the some of the best that Salina has to offer.For more information check out <a href="http://riverfestival.com">riverfestival.com</a><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/200778904@N03/albums/72177720317926820" title="Smoky Hill River Festival Day Two"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53793719650_423a3cf5a2_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="Smoky Hill River Festival Day Two"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Musicians, artists share their creativity at the 48th Smoky Hill River Festival

By NATE KING Salina Post

An Abilene custom meat processing and craft butcher shop held an open house event on Wednesday, June 12, to showcase its innovative mobile animal harvesting unit.

Midwest Meats, 610 S. Buckeye Ave. Abilene, Kan., is a family-owned and operated business specializing in custom-processing beef, bison, hog, lamb, goat, and elk.

"We just really believe the more local you can get your food supply- first of all, the healthier it is and second of all, the healthier economy," said Midwest Meats owner Troy Leith. "If we were gonna do that in Dickinson County we needed to be in Abilene — the economic center to get that done."

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a7ab0d2d-a695-4033-bc32-af76bab9455e">Danger near the bird feeder? K-State wildlife expert urges caution</a>

Rooted in traditional methods of animal harvesting, Midwest Meats' mobile harvesting unit aims to make meat processing more accessible for small and medium-sized ranch operations. Unveiled in March of last year, the mobile unit is capable of processing up to 20 head of livestock per week. 

The unit offers onsite slaughter services intended to reduce the stress associated with transporting animals to traditional slaughter facilities. According to Midwest Meats, this approach aims to improve animal welfare and enhance the quality of meat products.

"Abilene, like many small towns, zoned out for slaughter in town. So we ended up with the trailer," Leith said. "We're currently working on getting an inspector to come to the farm with us. It's new and innovative, people say, but how many of you remember when on the farm this was the way it was done."

The unit is designed to enhance flexibility and efficiency in livestock processing, particularly for less domesticated specialty breeds such as Bison and farm-raised Elk, which pose challenges in terms of loading and transportation.

Matthew Steele, CEO and executive director of the Kansas Cattleman Association, attended the event on Wednesday. 

"As Troy is working through the regulatory side of it showcasing and perfecting the equipment, it opens up the local market for everyone across the state and the nation," Steele said. "Working so that way both producers and consumers benefit as they get the regulatory things worked out that increases the reach of the product."

Midwest Meats is in the process of working with state and federal regulators like the Kansas Department of Agriculture and USDA to get the stamp of approval. 

"Troy has worked really hard on it [the mobile unit]," Steele said. "It's good to know that we've got one in place. It's working, and is being accepted and supported by the industry, the producer, Troy and his family and the consumer. It's just a matter of time."

With many counties zoning out slaughter and packing faccilties, Troy said Midwest Meats was presented with a unique opportunity.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/ca5ca2ef-5430-436e-8ab0-86d6165069e4">Day 3, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report</a>

"Lots of small towns and even counties have zoned out slaughter. I believe it happened because everybody saw the big packinghouses going in and said, 'I wouldn't want that in my backyard.' So let's zone it out," Leith said. "I'm not even saying it's a bad call for a community to do that, but they forgot about the small guy downtown."

Troy continued, "If we can get the whole inspection system to come alongside us and figure this out, we can reach out to all the small producers or medium-sized producers. We can put in a local source craft butcher shop in any town because we're not dealing with zoning and being able to kill. Whether it's a static location on multiple farms or how we do that."

Currently Midwest Meats transports locally sourced animals to a state-inspected facility for slaughter. 

"We're still getting over that hump of an inspected kill on the farm," Troy said. "Our building here, we're all under inspection and license; the only thing we're lacking ourselves is what we would call the stamp carcus. Currently, we're hauling locally sourced animals to a state-inspected facility, having them killed, and then picking them up with our trailer."

Midwest Meats is a family operation. Troy's wife, Wendy, and their children, Bryan and Morgan, all work at the store in various roles.

"Bryan is our main meat cutter and butcher, he runs it," Troy said. "He has an older brother in Des Moines, and they have both been in the meat cutting room since they got out of high school."

Morgan and Bryan's girlfriend Kinsey both work in the retail space in the store, and Wendy manages human resources and employee assistance. 

Along with providing consumers with high-quality custom meat cuts and helping ranchers get their animals to market, Troy said he hopes to see Midwest Meats handed down to the next generation.

"We expect once we get everything done, it should last two, three or more generations and past that with luck," Troy said. "The family-size farm or ranch needs all the help it can get, and part of our mission is to fill that gap."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718386370876.jpeg" alt="The Midwest Meats mobile animal harvesting unit. Photo Courtesy Midwest Meats" />
 <figcaption>The Midwest Meats mobile animal harvesting unit. Photo Courtesy Midwest Meats</figcaption>
 </figure>By NATE KING Salina PostAn Abilene custom meat processing and craft butcher shop held an open house event on Wednesday, June 12, to showcase its innovative mobile animal harvesting unit.Midwest Meats, 610 S. Buckeye Ave. Abilene, Kan., is a family-owned and operated business specializing in custom-processing beef, bison, hog, lamb, goat, and elk.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718383121128.jpeg" alt="Farmers and ranchers from north central Kansas listen to Troy Leith, owner of Midwest Meats explains how loading the animal in it natural enviroment reduces stress on the animal and improves the overall quality of the meat. Photo by Nate King" />
 <figcaption>Farmers and ranchers from north central Kansas listen to Troy Leith, owner of Midwest Meats explains how loading the animal in it natural enviroment reduces stress on the animal and improves the overall quality of the meat. Photo by Nate King</figcaption>
 </figure>"We just really believe the more local you can get your food supply- first of all, the healthier it is and second of all, the healthier economy," said Midwest Meats owner Troy Leith. "If we were gonna do that in Dickinson County we needed to be in Abilene — the economic center to get that done."READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a7ab0d2d-a695-4033-bc32-af76bab9455e">Danger near the bird feeder? K-State wildlife expert urges caution</a>Rooted in traditional methods of animal harvesting, Midwest Meats' mobile harvesting unit aims to make meat processing more accessible for small and medium-sized ranch operations. Unveiled in March of last year, the mobile unit is capable of processing up to 20 head of livestock per week. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718386255122.jpeg" alt="Inside the mobile animal harvesting unit. Photo Courtesy Midwest Meats" />
 <figcaption>Inside the mobile animal harvesting unit. Photo Courtesy Midwest Meats</figcaption>
 </figure>The unit offers onsite slaughter services intended to reduce the stress associated with transporting animals to traditional slaughter facilities. According to Midwest Meats, this approach aims to improve animal welfare and enhance the quality of meat products."Abilene, like many small towns, zoned out for slaughter in town. So we ended up with the trailer," Leith said. "We're currently working on getting an inspector to come to the farm with us. It's new and innovative, people say, but how many of you remember when on the farm this was the way it was done."The unit is designed to enhance flexibility and efficiency in livestock processing, particularly for less domesticated specialty breeds such as Bison and farm-raised Elk, which pose challenges in terms of loading and transportation.Matthew Steele, CEO and executive director of the Kansas Cattleman Association, attended the event on Wednesday. "As Troy is working through the regulatory side of it showcasing and perfecting the equipment, it opens up the local market for everyone across the state and the nation," Steele said. "Working so that way both producers and consumers benefit as they get the regulatory things worked out that increases the reach of the product."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718386152487.jpeg" alt=" Midwest Meats owner Troy Leith speaks with Kansas cattleman Larry Kendig of Osborne, Kansas. Photo by Nate King" />
 <figcaption> Midwest Meats owner Troy Leith speaks with Kansas cattleman Larry Kendig of Osborne, Kansas. Photo by Nate King</figcaption>
 </figure>Midwest Meats is in the process of working with state and federal regulators like the Kansas Department of Agriculture and USDA to get the stamp of approval. "Troy has worked really hard on it [the mobile unit]," Steele said. "It's good to know that we've got one in place. It's working, and is being accepted and supported by the industry, the producer, Troy and his family and the consumer. It's just a matter of time."With many counties zoning out slaughter and packing faccilties, Troy said Midwest Meats was presented with a unique opportunity.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/ca5ca2ef-5430-436e-8ab0-86d6165069e4">Day 3, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report</a>"Lots of small towns and even counties have zoned out slaughter. I believe it happened because everybody saw the big packinghouses going in and said, 'I wouldn't want that in my backyard.' So let's zone it out," Leith said. "I'm not even saying it's a bad call for a community to do that, but they forgot about the small guy downtown."Troy continued, "If we can get the whole inspection system to come alongside us and figure this out, we can reach out to all the small producers or medium-sized producers. We can put in a local source craft butcher shop in any town because we're not dealing with zoning and being able to kill. Whether it's a static location on multiple farms or how we do that."Currently Midwest Meats transports locally sourced animals to a state-inspected facility for slaughter. "We're still getting over that hump of an inspected kill on the farm," Troy said. "Our building here, we're all under inspection and license; the only thing we're lacking ourselves is what we would call the stamp carcus. Currently, we're hauling locally sourced animals to a state-inspected facility, having them killed, and then picking them up with our trailer."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718384050475.jpeg" alt="Troy's son Bryan pulls a cast iron pot filled with small portion meat cuts for visitors to try. Photo by Nate King" />
 <figcaption>Troy's son Bryan pulls a cast iron pot filled with small portion meat cuts for visitors to try. Photo by Nate King</figcaption>
 </figure>Midwest Meats is a family operation. Troy's wife, Wendy, and their children, Bryan and Morgan, all work at the store in various roles."Bryan is our main meat cutter and butcher, he runs it," Troy said. "He has an older brother in Des Moines, and they have both been in the meat cutting room since they got out of high school."Morgan and Bryan's girlfriend Kinsey both work in the retail space in the store, and Wendy manages human resources and employee assistance. Along with providing consumers with high-quality custom meat cuts and helping ranchers get their animals to market, Troy said he hopes to see Midwest Meats handed down to the next generation."We expect once we get everything done, it should last two, three or more generations and past that with luck," Troy said. "The family-size farm or ranch needs all the help it can get, and part of our mission is to fill that gap."

Abilene based Midwest Meats displays new mobile animal harvesting unit

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina Post

In between the Salina Police Department and the Saline County/City of Salina building stands a towering stone-based structure that the Saline County Senior Services calls home.

From January to March this year, five staff and dozens of volunteers distributed 28,501, with 15,932 for Meals on Wheels and 12,569 served in the dining room.

Meals on Wheels serves homebound residents alongside their fuzzy family members through a Meals on Wheels Pet Program.

"Our main thing is to keep seniors home and active," said Rosie Walter, the Saline County Senior Services director. "We are able to feed them nutritious meals, whether it be here [the Senior Center] or in their homes because they're homebound. My main goal is to keep them out of facilities for as long as possible and let them stay home."

Although the Salina Senior Center operates this way regularly today, it didn't begin that way. Saline County took over the center in 2018 from the <a href="https://www.ncfhaaa.com/">North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging</a> (NCFHAAA).

Walter said once the county took over operations at the Senior Center, it only began to grow. NCFHAAA started the Meals on Wheels program previously, and Walter said Saline County saw that program as an asset.

LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/df176786-0721-4298-8c69-b390ec66f798">🎙King in the Community Podcast — Susan Eberwein, Artyopolis coordinator</a>

"We didn't want to lose Meals on Wheels — we can't afford to do that for our seniors," Walter said. "So the county stepped in and they had already funded a big hunk of the Area Agency on Aging, but their population was very small, so those funds covered most of their expenses, but not everything. Food costs were a lot cheaper back then."

Today, staff and volunteers can regularly serve between 200 and 400 meals daily in-house, with hundreds more through Meals on Wheels.

In early April, Walter provided a budget update to Saline County Commissioners, detailing that 90% of the meals served to seniors are on the subsidized or reduced meal program.

The subsidization funnels through a federal funding program, trickling down to the regional Area Agencies on Aging and into the budgets of local county senior services.

READ:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/1c3873c0-d4dc-44b4-bfc8-1e4cb9b9ce40">&nbsp;Saline County Treasurer's Office addresses 'smishing' scam</a>

For Saline County Senior Services, this could be a free meal in person at the Senior Center or a $4 contribution from seniors for Meals on Wheels, making the program more affordable to seniors on a fixed income.

Senior Services also receives various donations throughout the year for its programs.

Although the subsidization allows the meals to be affordable, food prices have only increased, leading Saline County Senior Services to request a 21% increase in funding for 2025.

Walter said the increase stems from a new food contract and the request for a new position at Senior Services — an Activities Coordinator position.

This increase caused Saline County Commissioner Robert Vidricksen some supposed sticker shock. He pushed back on the budget increase during a budget study session on Tuesday, May 21.

"I realize donations are important, but I don't think the people who donate really are trying to subsidize our budget. I think they're trying to expand programs or helping to buy equipment," Vidricksen said. "I think you got to raise your prices for the non-subsidized stuff. You can't go to McDonald's for less than $11. We have a number of people that aren't seniors that use your facility, which is good, but we're subsidizing them the other way around."

Walter said that most seniors are in retirement, meaning a fixed income where many do not have the opportunity to increase their regular earnings, leading Walter's focus on the budget increase.

"We are spread too thin," Walter said. "When you're talking about 700 people, between Meals on Wheels and those that come in-house... the others that come in for exercise and all the different activities."

"When you're interacting with that many people, as they come through our doors or on the phone, we are spread way too thin."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580847122931.jpeg" alt="SP senior center in Salina file photo.jpg" />
 <figcaption>SP senior center in Salina file photo.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostIn between the Salina Police Department and the Saline County/City of Salina building stands a towering stone-based structure that the Saline County Senior Services calls home.From January to March this year, five staff and dozens of volunteers distributed 28,501, with 15,932 for Meals on Wheels and 12,569 served in the dining room.Meals on Wheels serves homebound residents alongside their fuzzy family members through a Meals on Wheels Pet Program."Our main thing is to keep seniors home and active," said Rosie Walter, the Saline County Senior Services director. "We are able to feed them nutritious meals, whether it be here [the Senior Center] or in their homes because they're homebound. My main goal is to keep them out of facilities for as long as possible and let them stay home."Although the Salina Senior Center operates this way regularly today, it didn't begin that way. Saline County took over the center in 2018 from the <a href="https://www.ncfhaaa.com/">North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging</a> (NCFHAAA).Walter said once the county took over operations at the Senior Center, it only began to grow. NCFHAAA started the Meals on Wheels program previously, and Walter said Saline County saw that program as an asset.LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/df176786-0721-4298-8c69-b390ec66f798">🎙King in the Community Podcast — Susan Eberwein, Artyopolis coordinator</a>"We didn't want to lose Meals on Wheels — we can't afford to do that for our seniors," Walter said. "So the county stepped in and they had already funded a big hunk of the Area Agency on Aging, but their population was very small, so those funds covered most of their expenses, but not everything. Food costs were a lot cheaper back then."Today, staff and volunteers can regularly serve between 200 and 400 meals daily in-house, with hundreds more through Meals on Wheels.In early April, Walter provided a budget update to Saline County Commissioners, detailing that 90% of the meals served to seniors are on the subsidized or reduced meal program.The subsidization funnels through a federal funding program, trickling down to the regional Area Agencies on Aging and into the budgets of local county senior services.READ:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/1c3873c0-d4dc-44b4-bfc8-1e4cb9b9ce40">&nbsp;Saline County Treasurer's Office addresses 'smishing' scam</a>For Saline County Senior Services, this could be a free meal in person at the Senior Center or a $4 contribution from seniors for Meals on Wheels, making the program more affordable to seniors on a fixed income.Senior Services also receives various donations throughout the year for its programs.Although the subsidization allows the meals to be affordable, food prices have only increased, leading Saline County Senior Services to request a 21% increase in funding for 2025.Walter said the increase stems from a new food contract and the request for a new position at Senior Services — an Activities Coordinator position.This increase caused Saline County Commissioner Robert Vidricksen some supposed sticker shock. He pushed back on the budget increase during a budget study session on Tuesday, May 21."I realize donations are important, but I don't think the people who donate really are trying to subsidize our budget. I think they're trying to expand programs or helping to buy equipment," Vidricksen said. "I think you got to raise your prices for the non-subsidized stuff. You can't go to McDonald's for less than $11. We have a number of people that aren't seniors that use your facility, which is good, but we're subsidizing them the other way around."Walter said that most seniors are in retirement, meaning a fixed income where many do not have the opportunity to increase their regular earnings, leading Walter's focus on the budget increase."We are spread too thin," Walter said. "When you're talking about 700 people, between Meals on Wheels and those that come in-house... the others that come in for exercise and all the different activities.""When you're interacting with that many people, as they come through our doors or on the phone, we are spread way too thin."

Saline County Senior Services looks for budget increase amidst growing operation costs

Join 910KINA's Saturday Morning Show hosts Dave Foor and Nate King this Saturday from 9 to 11 a.m. on 910AM 107.5 FM.

Hear highlights about community events, public affairs, and all things happening in Salina. Their approach is friendly, informative, and entertaining. To listen to past 910KINA Saturday Morning Shows head on over to the KINA podcast homepage&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com/">here.</a>&nbsp;

9:05-9:30 a.m. Saline County Treasurer Jim DuBois

9:30-10 a.m. Smoky Hill River Festival Conversations from King in the Community

10 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Karen Wood, Saline County Relay for Life

10:30 a.m.-11 a.m. Olivia Bergmeier, lead reporter for the Salina Post is at the Smoky Hill River Festival

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591971280271.jpeg" alt="KINA New logo Blue Black" />
 <figcaption>KINA New logo Blue Black</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTJoin 910KINA's Saturday Morning Show hosts Dave Foor and Nate King this Saturday from 9 to 11 a.m. on 910AM 107.5 FM.Hear highlights about community events, public affairs, and all things happening in Salina. Their approach is friendly, informative, and entertaining. To listen to past 910KINA Saturday Morning Shows head on over to the KINA podcast homepage&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com/">here.</a>&nbsp;9:05-9:30 a.m. Saline County Treasurer Jim DuBois9:30-10 a.m. Smoky Hill River Festival Conversations from King in the Community10 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Karen Wood, Saline County Relay for Life10:30 a.m.-11 a.m. Olivia Bergmeier, lead reporter for the Salina Post is at the Smoky Hill River Festival

910 KINA Saturday Morning Show Lineup

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, nice seeing everybody. Good to finish up here on a positive note. The guys ran today and did a nice job with that. They look like they’re - have a good foundation. They’ll come back and have an actual test, a conditioning test when they get back. They sure worked hard this offseason and they finished up again today. It’s been productive in particular for the young guys but also for some of the free agents that we brought in and/or the draft picks. So, they’ve done well. So, with that, and then we’ll take a little break here, coaches and players. Players normally take about a week off and then it’s ramp up time after that, so they’ve got to get themselves ready for training camp. Message is just make sure that you come back ready to go – (the message) to the players. With that, time’s yours.”

Q:&nbsp;Patrick Mahomes and Hollywood Brown seem to really have developed chemistry throughout OTAs. How do you see that learning and developing?

REID:&nbsp;“As a coach you look for the communication part. Are they willing to share what they’re thinking with one another? They’ve got a good connection with that part of it – they’re talking. Once Patrick (Mahomes) knows what Hollywood’s (Brown) thinking and Hollywood kind of knows where Patrick physically can get the ball to, location on the field, not as much depth as location on the field, then that’s a good thing.”

Q:&nbsp;Patrick Mahomes mentioned that you gave him a few lighthearted jabs about not settling for the check-down. Is that a point this year to take those deep shots?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah well really in this camp – and I always explain this to the quarterbacks – is that this is the time to find out what you can get away with in the pass game. So there are going to be interceptions that take place but that’s ok. Right now, you’re testing things and then as you go through camp, as camp goes on then you start refining it and hopefully you have the opportunity to do it on every route. Now is that possible? Probably not but at least the ones that you haven’t done a lot of and so we’re always feeding Patrick (Mahomes) new things and that’s to help challenge him because he likes that, and it also makes us better. So, he gets in there and he’s trying to work with these new routes against all these different coverages that (Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo) Spags is throwing at you. So, it’s a nice challenge there.”

Q:&nbsp;What are you seeing with the competition for left tackle between Wanya Morris and Kinglsey Suamataia?

REID:&nbsp;“Listen, they’ve both done a nice job. So, (I) like the production we’ve seen from both of them. Both of them are young guys. So, we’ll just see how it all finishes up through camp. It’s good competition. We’re going to end up playing the five best guys and we’ll go from there. We’ll just see how it all plays out.”

Q:&nbsp;With the ring ceremony tonight, how much do you use tonight to say it’s time to move on and focus on next season or do you think they’ve already moved on?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, I said that at the first minicamp or first OTA, whatever you want to call them. So, it goes by fast. Once you get through that parade, you’re kind of off and heading in the direction of the new season. It’s a night – I don’t want to slight tonight – because there’s a lot that goes into that and there’s a lot of hard work that’s gone into that and this is kind of the reward for it. But I think the guys know that it’s going to be nice to get the ring, but they’ve moved on.”

Q:&nbsp;What’s the plan for Joe Thuney when you get to training camp?

REID:&nbsp;“Joe’s (Thuney) working his tail off, getting better. We’ll just have to - we’ve got to see exactly how that thing works out. I’m not sure, we’ve got to get clearance from the doctor and that whole process that goes on as we go, but he’s made good progress. He’ll be one of those guys that’s kind of right on the border whether he can go or not go from the healing part of it.”

Q:&nbsp;Is it reasonable to expect that he could be ready to go for the regular season?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, yes. For the regular season, yeah. I think he should be ok unless there’s a setback somewhere.”

Q:&nbsp;Do you expect Xavier Worthy to also be ready to go for training camp?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, he should be able to. He’ll continue to get treatment here. He’s getting better. He’ll get treatment, and we’ll just see how he rehabs through that.”

Q:&nbsp;We’ve also seen Derrick Nnadi and Leo Chenal sitting out. Are they on track?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, elbow and back, yeah. They’re both doing good. Range of motion for (Derrick) Nnadi and then Leo’s (Chenal) close. He’s doing a nice job.”

Q:&nbsp;What exactly is Leo Chenal’s injury?

Q:&nbsp;Patrick Mahomes seems hard wired to go for those deep shots. Do you find that you actually have to reel it in more than in the past?

REID:&nbsp;“No, he’s got a good feel for that. Right now, in the pass camp you’re challenging him to take the difficult throw. All’s we’re doing is throwing the ball, so you can check it down and the defense knows that, so you get deep drops. You can sit there and check it down all day, but you’re not getting work on those tight window throws. (It’s) a great opportunity to work those (tight window throws) here. So, it’s not going to be the guy that’s wide open necessarily. It’s going to be where you got to dot it. Helps you with your accuracy and velocity, timing – all those things.”

Q:&nbsp;It’s not like the mindset at the end of last season where you guys kind of contoured to playing with the defense knowing they could handle it?

REID:&nbsp;“Well we’ll see. You know, we’ll see, just see how it all rounds out. You’ve got a little bit more speed on the outside than maybe we did last year so you know if you can use it, you use it. If it’s available, take it. If not, you can work your progression.”

Q:&nbsp;What will you do for the break? Do you ever wear your Super Bowl rings?

REID:&nbsp;“You know, I don’t (wear my Super Bowl rings). Keep this one sacred (points to wedding ring), right (laughter). Right there. I don’t wear the others. She (Tammy Reid) wears them (laughter). Not sure that’s – but she likes to wear them. But, I’ll take a break here. I’ve got a place out west there. I’ll go veg for a minute but still keep my eye on things.”

Q:&nbsp;What did consume most of your self-scout during the offseason? We’ve seen you work on the deep passing game. Did that take up most of it?

REID:&nbsp;“Really, it’s getting that timing down with the new people and then what do the new people do well? So, let’s see what they can do. Now, with Xavier (Worthy) we weren’t able to do a whole lot of that because of the injury but you bring Mecole (Hardman) back in and then you’ve got Hollywood (Brown), you’ve got two fast guys so you can kind of work some things in there and see what they look like. We kind of know the game between (number) four (Rashee Rice) and (number) 87 (Travis Kelce) and how they work off of each other. I thought we were able to expand that too and give them a little bit more to work on. But I would tell you just how the pieces are going to fit was what we spent most of the time on.”

Q:&nbsp;Travis Kelce has said that Jared Wiley is ahead of where he was in terms of understanding the offense as a rookie. How important is that especially with you potentially backing off Travis’ workload?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, I don’t know how much we’re going to back off on his time. He wants to be worn out, and we can help him with that (laughter). Wiley, he’s got a good feel, but he’s also got two good guys there between Noah (Gray) and Trav (Kelce) that he can bounce things off of and (Tight Ends Coach) Tom’s (Melvin) been doing – we’re into the offense more than we were when Trav was coming up. Those guys help share it and Tom does a nice job teaching him and spending extra time with him. He comes from a passing offense, he’s had a couple different ones, but good passing offense. He’s got a nice feel for the game. He’s a big target, good player.”

Q:&nbsp;We were talking to your son Spencer Reid at Super Bowl LVIII. He said generally he will find you in the office writing plays in the offseason. How much time do you really take off?

REID:&nbsp;“I try to take the mornings and/or the evenings and just spend a little time with it every day. I enjoy doing it, but my grandkids occupy some time when I get this break - 13 of them, that’s a lot of juggling, right? So, you want to spend as much time as you can with them and you’re not thinking about football when you’re doing it, you’re thinking about them jumping off the cliff or doing something crazy (laughter) so you’ve got to keep a close eye on them.”

Q:&nbsp;How much does it help to bring back veteran players? How much does it help competition during this time?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think it’s great. They set the tempo on it (OTAs) and they create the competition, I think, that you’re talking about here. You hear them jabbing – I mean you’ve heard it, yesterday. We’re down right by you guys and you hear them challenging each other as much as they can in a non-contact environment here. But there’s good competition on both sides of the ball against each other and I think that’s healthy and important.”

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I appreciate (the) coaches (have) kind of dialed it back from when I first got here so those guys are lucky. It was good and guys - I thought we did a great job and guys were in great shape.”

Q: On the Dallas Maverick’s NBA series.

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“They played hard. Obviously it didn’t end the way I wanted it to end. It’s kind of a tough series so far but I think (Dallas Maverick’s Guard/Forward) Luka (Dončić) said it best, ‘It’s not over till it’s over.’ I’m still going to be supporting those guys, it’s been a great season. I’m not going to be able to make game four or anything like that, but I’ll be watching.”

Q: Last year you said that the ring ceremony was the last night to celebrate the season before turning the page. Did you have a similar chat with the guys again today?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“Yeah, for sure. I mean you’ve seen we’ve enjoyed – I mean guys have traveled around and have been able to do a lot of great things. At the same time I mean every year in this league – first off, I thought we had a great OTAs and minicamp to this point. Then, every year in this league you have to come in with that same mentality, you have to be hungry. It’s hard, you saw last year, you’ve seen it every year that I’ve been here, you have to battle in order to win that Super Bowl. Guys have to have that mentality and I think what (General Manager Brett) Veach and (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid do is they bring in a group of guys that are hungry and they fuse them with guys that have been here and it usually comes in with a great mix when you get to training camp.”

Q: Do you even mention the three-peat and what is the team’s approach to this?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“There’s nothing you can be scared of but at the same time I mean that’s not – the mentality is it’s a brand-new season. I’ve dealt with it a couple times now and we know every week is going to be a big week. We start off with some great opponents early in the season, so you just have the mentality of getting yourself better. In order to win you have to get better and better every single year, that’s the mentality you have to have.”

Q: What is your schedule going to look like from now till training camp?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I’ll be traveling a little bit but a lot of working out. I mean it’s only four and a half weeks, it’s like my shortest second break that I’ve ever had. There’s not going to be a lot of off time, even if I’m on vacation or whatever it is, there’s going to be a lot of working out. I have a good plan that I have with (Trainer) Bobby (Stroupe) so we’ll make sure I come into camp ready to go.”

Q: Do you need to use this time to replenish and restore yourself?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“It’s pretty simple, I’m not trying to do anything crazy. I go to sports games and stuff like that but other than that it’s just spending time with my family, playing golf and working out.”

Q: Is it important though to get some rest in?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I’m kind of one of those guys or people just in general that doesn’t like just sitting still so the golf course is my rest. I like to go out there and hit them and just have a good time out there and spend time with my family and chasing (my) kids around.”

Q: What leads you to say that the team had a good OTAs compared to seasons in the past?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think it’s two things, I think one is just the confidence that the defense has just off the year they had this last year. You see that they’re trying to build on that. Then offensively, obviously, we felt like we didn’t play our best last year and even though we won, we knew we had a lot of places to improve. I think guys had that mentality coming into OTAs and minicamp. That’s something that I think has gotten the best out of everybody is that every single day y’all hear it – we’re talking trash but it’s in a good way then we go off, we talk about it after practice of what we can do better. It’s been a great OTAs and minicamp, one of the best that I think that I’ve ever been a part of.”

Q: How do you think the receiver’s room is shaping up?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think it’s shaping up really well. I thought Hollywood (Brown) did a great coming in and being prepared and learning really fast and being able to go out there and make plays. I thought Rashee (Rice) did a great job, J (Justin) Wat (Watson), Skyy (Moore), all these guys really competed, and I think that’s a good thing to have. I’m excited to get (Xavier) Worthy out there more, I got to throw to him a couple times, but you want to get him out there kind of in some more team-based drills and let him work and learn on the fly. You saw him learning on the side and now it’s just about him getting ready to be at camp and being in shape and ready to roll there.”

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“It’s been great honestly. A great dude and super talented, I think that’s the first thing I saw. I mean you see why he (Carson Wentz) was on pace to win the MVP, the guy can make every throw. He’s very smart, intelligent, asks a lot of great questions and he’s been in similar offenses before so it’s easy for him to pick it up I think. Like I said, he’s super talented, I think that’s the first thing I saw.”

Q: This far into your career, are you still learning new things about your game?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think this is probably the most comfortable I think I’ve felt of just being able to not let something I guess affect me. When you go against (Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo) Spags, you’re not going to be right 100% of the time and there’s been times where I’ve lost on blitzes and Spags gets me with a new pressure that he’s working on. I think it’s just being able to (say), ‘Alright, let’s just the ball out of my hands, get it to the check-down or whatever that is and then live to play another play.’ I think that’s just something that I’ve felt more comfortable with. I think it’s been cool that we’ve been trying – (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid has gone back to my old days, he’s forcing me to push the ball down the field (and) if I don’t he throws little jabs at me like, ‘Oh, you want to throw the check-down here.’ I’m just like, ‘I got you Coach, we’re going to push it.’ It’s been fun, it’s been a great camp (and) like I said I love the competing, I think that has been the biggest thing, the competing on both sides of the ball, it’s been awesome.”

Q: What is going to be the difference between the performance this year and last year on the field?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“It’s just a mindset. You have to come in knowing that we’re going to get everybody’s best shot, I think we know that. At the same, I think we were a young team last year and we kind of grew up as the season went on. I think this year you have to learn from those mistakes you made last year. I mean it’s just this close (small gesture), that’s how the NFL is. You look back at the season, I think there’s probably three or four games that if we would’ve came out with wins we would have been the one seed from the get-go. You just have to make sure that you capitalize on those opportunities, don’t make those mistakes and try to win those games that we lost last year.”

Q: How much has Hollywood Brown progressed thus far and what is your chemistry like with him?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“He’s (Hollywood Brown) done a great job. It’s hard to learn this offense and I feel like he’s done a great job picking it up very fast. Obviously, you see the ability, he’s – I mean obviously I don’t know how he’s here in our place because of how talented he is. I can just see that it’s going to be a great season for him, just take pressure off of other guys and I think it’s going to help get Trav (Kelce) open, help get Rashee (Rice) open, going to help get all these guys open. You’re going to have that speed threat that can run routes and do all those different things so I’m very excited to get him out there in the regular season.”