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

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AIM Center of Excellence celebrates first program graduation

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016826196.jpeg" alt="Snow blankets the Salina City and Saline County building during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Snow blankets the Salina City and Saline County building during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTTuesday, March 12, 2024, 9:00 a.m. 300 W Ash Room 107 Salina, Kansas 67401Board of County Commissioners: Monte Shadwick - District 1 Robert Vidricksen II - District 2 Rodger Sparks - District 3 James Weese - District 4 Chairman, Joe Hay Jr. - District 5<h2>About the Meeting</h2>County offices will be open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., unless otherwise noted.If you need any assistance in participating in any meeting or event due to a disability as defined under ADA, please call the County’s ADA Coordinator at (785) 309-5812 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:leamerm@salinecountyks.gov">leamerm@salinecountyks.gov</a>&nbsp;prior to the scheduled meeting or event to request accommodations.Board of County Commissioners meetings are live-streamed on YouTube.<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125">For a library of past meetings, and to view this week's meeting, click here.&nbsp;</a><h2>Consent Agenda</h2><ol>
 <li>Approval of Tax Roll Adjustments</li><li>Approval of Accounts Payable</li><li>Approval of Public Forum Agenda</li><li>Approval of Payroll</li><li>Approval of Cereal Malt Beverage License #156516 - Charles Fairchild DBA Salina Speedway</li><li>Disposition of Property</li><li>Approval of Contract with Prairie Building Systems for Fire District 6 Station Addition</li>
 </ol><h2>Action Items</h2><ol>
 <li>2024 Transit Driver and Worker Appreciation Day Proclamation</li>
 </ol><h2>Presentations</h2><ol>
 <li>United Way Childcare Initiative Update</li>
 </ol><h2>Informational Items</h2><ol>
 <li>Financial Projection</li><li>County Administrator’s Update </li><li>Commissioner Comments </li><li>Announcements </li>
 </ol><h2>Concept Discussion</h2><ol>
 <li>Discussion of Priorities for 2025 Budget</li>
 </ol><h2>03/19/2024 Agenda Items</h2><ol>
 <li>Study Session</li>
 </ol><h2>03/25/2024 Agenda Items</h2><ol>
 <li>Presidential Primary Pre-Election Canvass of Votes&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><h2>03/26/2024 Agenda Items</h2><ol>
 <li>Community Corrections Update</li><li>Health Department Update</li><li>Bid Award for RFD #5 Roof</li><li>Bid Award for 2024 Bituminous Crack Seal</li><li>Mattson Road Vacation</li>
 </ol><h2>Adjournment</h2>

Saline County Board of Commissioners March 12 meeting agenda

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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