Starting on Wednesday, February 28, and continuing through Friday, March 1, Circle C Paving &amp; Construction of Goddard, Kansas will begin work on the City of Salina’s annual pavement crack sealing project by sealing cracks on the following streets, weather permitting.

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 costeffective 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 costeffectiveness, 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.

<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>SubmittedStarting on Wednesday, February 28, and continuing through Friday, March 1, Circle C Paving &amp; Construction of Goddard, Kansas will begin work on the City of Salina’s annual pavement crack sealing project by sealing cracks on the following streets, weather permitting.• Arnold• Bailey• Berschel• General Jim• Jumper• Kneubuhl• Rogers• Sutherland• SummersThe 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 costeffective 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 costeffectiveness, 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.

Salina begins pavement sealing project

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

Cities across the state face an elevated risk of wildfires today due to extreme temperatures and high winds for this early in the year.

For Salina, yesterday's temperatures broke the 1896 record of 78 degrees by 2:34 p.m., and by 2:53 p.m., Salina Municipal Airport reported 81 degrees for the city.

"We were nearly 30 degrees above that yesterday, and we will be below that tomorrow," said Wichita National Weather Service Meteorologist Kelly Butler. "We have a high right now for 46 [on Wednesday]."

According to Butler, the record-high temperatures mixed with the winds of a cold front coming through north central Kansas made a recipe for dangerous wildfire conditions.

In town, forecasts show the temperature dropping to the mid-40s by this evening, with possible windchills in the single digits tomorrow morning.

"We're going to have rapidly dropping dew points likely as well, so we're still expecting a fire threat up there in Salina," Butler said. "You want to definitely be really careful with any open flames or anything that might cause a spark — cigarette butts, chains hanging down from a vehicle, anything like that."

Many performed prescribed burns yesterday due to the favorable weather conditions, light winds and warm air temperatures. 

With today's high winds and 20- to 30-degree temperature departures from usual, Butler said some prescribed burns may rekindle into uncontrolled wildfires.

"In Kansas, people need to burn parts of their land for good reason, and there's only a certain number of days a year where that's a good time to do it," Butler said. "They know they won't be able to do it the next day."

Butler said forecasts show that after the dip in temperature tomorrow, the warming trend will start on Thursday and go into the weekend for high temperatures on Saturday and Sunday, hovering in the mid to upper 70s.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/640f28fa-2796-4cf9-acdd-a7422d4d5665">Severe weather looms; make plans now to stay safe, says K-State climatologist</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709056912864.jpeg" alt="Warm, dry, and windy conditions will drive the potential for elevated to critical fire weather conditions on Tues afternoon. Graphic courtesy National Weather Service Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Warm, dry, and windy conditions will drive the potential for elevated to critical fire weather conditions on Tues afternoon. Graphic courtesy National Weather Service Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostCities across the state face an elevated risk of wildfires today due to extreme temperatures and high winds for this early in the year.For Salina, yesterday's temperatures broke the 1896 record of 78 degrees by 2:34 p.m., and by 2:53 p.m., Salina Municipal Airport reported 81 degrees for the city."We were nearly 30 degrees above that yesterday, and we will be below that tomorrow," said Wichita National Weather Service Meteorologist Kelly Butler. "We have a high right now for 46 [on Wednesday]."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709057013300.jpeg" alt="A strong cold front is expected to arrive in the afternoon, dropping temperatures for Wednesday with AM wind chills in single digits to lower teens. Graphic courtesy National Weather Service Wichita" />
 <figcaption>A strong cold front is expected to arrive in the afternoon, dropping temperatures for Wednesday with AM wind chills in single digits to lower teens. Graphic courtesy National Weather Service Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>According to Butler, the record-high temperatures mixed with the winds of a cold front coming through north central Kansas made a recipe for dangerous wildfire conditions.In town, forecasts show the temperature dropping to the mid-40s by this evening, with possible windchills in the single digits tomorrow morning."We're going to have rapidly dropping dew points likely as well, so we're still expecting a fire threat up there in Salina," Butler said. "You want to definitely be really careful with any open flames or anything that might cause a spark — cigarette butts, chains hanging down from a vehicle, anything like that."Many performed prescribed burns yesterday due to the favorable weather conditions, light winds and warm air temperatures. With today's high winds and 20- to 30-degree temperature departures from usual, Butler said some prescribed burns may rekindle into uncontrolled wildfires."In Kansas, people need to burn parts of their land for good reason, and there's only a certain number of days a year where that's a good time to do it," Butler said. "They know they won't be able to do it the next day."Butler said forecasts show that after the dip in temperature tomorrow, the warming trend will start on Thursday and go into the weekend for high temperatures on Saturday and Sunday, hovering in the mid to upper 70s.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/640f28fa-2796-4cf9-acdd-a7422d4d5665">Severe weather looms; make plans now to stay safe, says K-State climatologist</a>

NWS meteorologist warns about extreme fire danger after Salina breaks 1896 high-temp record

A domestic situation turned into a robbery Saturday evening that eventually led Salina Police Department officers to conduct a high-risk traffic stop on a resident.

On Saturday, Feb. 24, in the 1200 block of Crescent Drive, a woman reported to SPD officers that her boyfriend, 40-year-old Jerome Terrance Citizen, robbed the keys to her 2021 Jeep Wrangler from a lanyard around her neck and took the vehicle.

"Through our flock system, we were able to locate the vehicle much later, did a high-risk stop on it, and took him into custody," said SPD Capt. Mike Miller.

A high-risk traffic stop includes multiple patrol vehicles arriving on the scene with guns drawn, where officers will order suspects out of their cars with their backs facing toward law enforcement officers.

Officers will then instruct suspects to walk backward toward the patrol vehicles and have them kneel with their hands placed on or above their heads.

Miller said SPD officers located Citizen on Sunday afternoon around 1:45 p.m. at the Casey's on South Ninth Street and Magnolia Road. After arresting Citizen, officers requested charges for robbery and felony theft.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/21aa8ed7-086d-4127-9ec4-d7b1eadf6f28">SPD officers recover more than 200 oxycodone pills during traffic stop</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708955618279.jpeg" alt="Citizen, Jerome Terrance" />
 <figcaption>Citizen, Jerome Terrance</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostA domestic situation turned into a robbery Saturday evening that eventually led Salina Police Department officers to conduct a high-risk traffic stop on a resident.On Saturday, Feb. 24, in the 1200 block of Crescent Drive, a woman reported to SPD officers that her boyfriend, 40-year-old Jerome Terrance Citizen, robbed the keys to her 2021 Jeep Wrangler from a lanyard around her neck and took the vehicle."Through our flock system, we were able to locate the vehicle much later, did a high-risk stop on it, and took him into custody," said SPD Capt. Mike Miller.A high-risk traffic stop includes multiple patrol vehicles arriving on the scene with guns drawn, where officers will order suspects out of their cars with their backs facing toward law enforcement officers.Officers will then instruct suspects to walk backward toward the patrol vehicles and have them kneel with their hands placed on or above their heads.Miller said SPD officers located Citizen on Sunday afternoon around 1:45 p.m. at the Casey's on South Ninth Street and Magnolia Road. After arresting Citizen, officers requested charges for robbery and felony theft.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/21aa8ed7-086d-4127-9ec4-d7b1eadf6f28">SPD officers recover more than 200 oxycodone pills during traffic stop</a>

SPD officers conduct high-risk stop after resident steals his girlfriend's Jeep

Early Saturday morning, Salina Police Department officers reported to the Pilot Travel Center on North Ninth Street for an Abilene resident lying unconscious outside the business.

Around 8:30 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 24, SPD officers found 24-year-old Dylan Wade Woodcox asleep outside the travel center. 

Officers transported Woodcox to Salina Regional Health Center for treatment. SPD Capt. Mike Miller said as officers were attempting to determine the subject's identity, they allegedly found evidence of drug use.

"Officers located a baggie of methamphetamine and another baggie of some unknown substance," Miller said. "At the hospital, the subject was going to be released, so officers went to take him into custody — they put a handcuff on him, a fight broke out, and he ended up running from the hospital in possession of a set of police department handcuffs."

After a short four-block chase, officers arrested Woodcox in the 600 block of South 10th Street. Miller said the handcuffs stolen from officers were also damaged, adding to Woodcox's requested charges.

SPD took Woodcox into custody and requested charges for possession of a narcotic, interference with a law enforcement officer, robbery, possession of drug paraphernalia and criminal property damage.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/21aa8ed7-086d-4127-9ec4-d7b1eadf6f28">SPD officers recover more than 200 oxycodone pills during traffic stop</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708871414689.jpeg" alt="Woodcox, Dylan Wade" />
 <figcaption>Woodcox, Dylan Wade</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostEarly Saturday morning, Salina Police Department officers reported to the Pilot Travel Center on North Ninth Street for an Abilene resident lying unconscious outside the business.Around 8:30 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 24, SPD officers found 24-year-old Dylan Wade Woodcox asleep outside the travel center. Officers transported Woodcox to Salina Regional Health Center for treatment. SPD Capt. Mike Miller said as officers were attempting to determine the subject's identity, they allegedly found evidence of drug use."Officers located a baggie of methamphetamine and another baggie of some unknown substance," Miller said. "At the hospital, the subject was going to be released, so officers went to take him into custody — they put a handcuff on him, a fight broke out, and he ended up running from the hospital in possession of a set of police department handcuffs."After a short four-block chase, officers arrested Woodcox in the 600 block of South 10th Street. Miller said the handcuffs stolen from officers were also damaged, adding to Woodcox's requested charges.SPD took Woodcox into custody and requested charges for possession of a narcotic, interference with a law enforcement officer, robbery, possession of drug paraphernalia and criminal property damage.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/21aa8ed7-086d-4127-9ec4-d7b1eadf6f28">SPD officers recover more than 200 oxycodone pills during traffic stop</a>

SPD arrests Abilene resident who fled with handcuffs from hospital in Salina

County offices will be open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m.– 5:00 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"> </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>

Approval of Tax Roll Adjustments Approval of Accounts Payable Approval of Public Forum Agenda Approval of Payroll Approval of County Commission Minutes for February 13, 2024 Approval of Addenda to Extend Time for Rural Water District 1 ARPA Projects

Approval of Addenda to Extend Time for Rural Water District 8 ARPA Projects

Discussion of Repairs to Old Sheriff's Office &amp; Jail Facility

March 5 County Commission meeting agenda items

Road and Bridge Update Financial Projection RFD #6 Station Bid Award Concept Discussion on Housing

<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, February 27, 2024, 9:00 a.m.300 W Ash Room 107 Salina, Kansas 67401Board of County Commissioners:Monte Shadwick - District 1Robert Vidricksen II - District 2Rodger Sparks - District 3James Weese - District 4Chairman, Joe Hay Jr. - District 5<h2>About the Meeting</h2>County offices will be open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m.– 5:00 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"> </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>Approval of Tax Roll Adjustments Approval of Accounts Payable Approval of Public Forum Agenda Approval of Payroll Approval of County Commission Minutes for February 13, 2024 Approval of Addenda to Extend Time for Rural Water District 1 ARPA ProjectsApproval of Addenda to Extend Time for Rural Water District 8 ARPA Projects<h2>Informational&nbsp;</h2>Commissioner CommentsAnnouncements<h2>Concept Discussion</h2>Discussion of Repairs to Old Sheriff's Office &amp; Jail Facility<h2>March 5 County Commission meeting agenda items</h2>Road and Bridge Update Financial Projection RFD #6 Station Bid Award Concept Discussion on Housing<h2>Adjournment</h2>

Saline County Board of Commissioners Feb. 27 meeting agenda

During a regular traffic stop on Sunday, Feb. 25, Salina Police Department officers found almost 250 undocumented oxycodone pills.

According to SPD Capt. Mike Miller, at about 3:30 p.m. Sunday, officers made a traffic stop after witnessing a 2011 gold Dodge Ram 3500 pickup truck failing to yield at a stop sign near the 1200 block of West Crawford Street.

Once SPD officers stopped the vehicle in a parking lot, a K-9 officer alerted on the truck, indicating the presence of narcotics.

"Officers did a search on the vehicle and located two pill bottles," Miller said. "One of them had 208 oxycodone pills, and the other bottle had an additional 33 oxycodone pills."

Miller said during past arrests, some officers recovered pills that looked near-identical with oxycodone but turned out to be fentanyl or oxycodone dupes laced with fentanyl. 

Since the pills lacked a drug tax stamp or any other documentation, officers arrested 34-year-old Jacob Wayne Thompson. Miller said due to the pills' unknown maker or distributor, SPD sent the tablets to a lab to test for fentanyl.

Thompson also allegedly had a 9-year-old child traveling in the truck with him when officers conducted the traffic stop. SPD requested charges for aggravated endangerment of a child, distribution of a stimulant, lack of drug tax stamp and drug paraphernalia.

Miller said Thompson also required an interlock device to drive legally, which Thompson had in the truck, but it was not correctly connected.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/21c2c990-3994-4388-ac87-6b951bab4516">Suspect steals almost $5,000 in copper wires from Grantville business</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708955722935.jpeg" alt="Thompson, Jacob Wayne" />
 <figcaption>Thompson, Jacob Wayne</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostDuring a regular traffic stop on Sunday, Feb. 25, Salina Police Department officers found almost 250 undocumented oxycodone pills.According to SPD Capt. Mike Miller, at about 3:30 p.m. Sunday, officers made a traffic stop after witnessing a 2011 gold Dodge Ram 3500 pickup truck failing to yield at a stop sign near the 1200 block of West Crawford Street.Once SPD officers stopped the vehicle in a parking lot, a K-9 officer alerted on the truck, indicating the presence of narcotics."Officers did a search on the vehicle and located two pill bottles," Miller said. "One of them had 208 oxycodone pills, and the other bottle had an additional 33 oxycodone pills."Miller said during past arrests, some officers recovered pills that looked near-identical with oxycodone but turned out to be fentanyl or oxycodone dupes laced with fentanyl. Since the pills lacked a drug tax stamp or any other documentation, officers arrested 34-year-old Jacob Wayne Thompson. Miller said due to the pills' unknown maker or distributor, SPD sent the tablets to a lab to test for fentanyl.Thompson also allegedly had a 9-year-old child traveling in the truck with him when officers conducted the traffic stop. SPD requested charges for aggravated endangerment of a child, distribution of a stimulant, lack of drug tax stamp and drug paraphernalia.Miller said Thompson also required an interlock device to drive legally, which Thompson had in the truck, but it was not correctly connected.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/21c2c990-3994-4388-ac87-6b951bab4516">Suspect steals almost $5,000 in copper wires from Grantville business</a>

SPD officers recover more than 200 oxycodone pills during traffic stop

A local Kansas electrical company found almost $5,000 in spools of copper wires stolen from a company truck last week.

According to the Saline County Sheriff's Office, while <a href="https://www.parelectric.com/">PAR Electric</a>&nbsp;worked at the substation at 2150 E. North Street, an unknown suspect broke into a storage bin on one of their 2018 Freight bucket truck and stole large spools of wire.

Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said the spools of wire included eight spools of 12-foot grounding copper wires, three spools of 20-foot cables and an additional three spools of 12-foot copper wires.

PAR Electric left the company truck at the substation overnight from Friday to Saturday. Once the vehicle arrived back at the company lot in Grantville, staff realized the theft.

"They went back and played their video cameras to see if somebody got into their lot to steal the wire," Soldan said. "[The video showed] nobody got into their lot. So it happened when it was there."

Soldan said deputies would continue investigating the theft, but the Sheriff's Office had no suspects. The loss totaled to about $4,560.

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

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/1ddc8c51-1d88-437b-b6b1-e0606dc63746">SFD attacks two-story house fire in central Salina</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. " />
 <figcaption>The Saline County Sheriff's Office located at 800 E. Pacific Avenue in Salina. </figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostA local Kansas electrical company found almost $5,000 in spools of copper wires stolen from a company truck last week.According to the Saline County Sheriff's Office, while <a href="https://www.parelectric.com/">PAR Electric</a>&nbsp;worked at the substation at 2150 E. North Street, an unknown suspect broke into a storage bin on one of their 2018 Freight bucket truck and stole large spools of wire.Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said the spools of wire included eight spools of 12-foot grounding copper wires, three spools of 20-foot cables and an additional three spools of 12-foot copper wires.PAR Electric left the company truck at the substation overnight from Friday to Saturday. Once the vehicle arrived back at the company lot in Grantville, staff realized the theft."They went back and played their video cameras to see if somebody got into their lot to steal the wire," Soldan said. "[The video showed] nobody got into their lot. So it happened when it was there."Soldan said deputies would continue investigating the theft, but the Sheriff's Office had no suspects. The loss totaled to about $4,560.Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/1ddc8c51-1d88-437b-b6b1-e0606dc63746">SFD attacks two-story house fire in central Salina</a>

Suspect steals almost $5,000 in copper wires from Grantville business

The Saline County Sheriff's Office caught an alleged thief through cellular game camera evidence between Wednesday, Feb. 14 and Saturday, Feb. 17.

According to Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan, in the 4100 block of North Muir Road outside of town, a resident discovered two cellular game cameras and solar charge panels stolen from the property.

Before the suspect got away with the two Muddy Outdoors trail cameras, they automatically snapped photos of him and sent them to the owner.

"At some point when they were taken, they emailed out pictures of the guy before he took it down," Soldan said. "So we got pictures of the guy and his vehicle. They went back in the Flock system, the cameras around town — they got the vehicle description out of Flock and identified the suspect." 

The victim valued each camera at around $300 and each panel at $70, so the total loss was $670. 

After deputies identified and connected with the suspect on Thursday, Feb. 23, he quickly turned the trail cameras over to them.

"He admitted to taking the cameras," Soldan said. "Since it was a misdemeanor, we requested charges against him. You need to be on-view to make an arrest in a misdemeanor theft, but we did identify a 41-year-old suspect who we will request a warrant for theft."

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

<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. " />
 <figcaption>The Saline County Sheriff's Office located at 800 E. Pacific Avenue in Salina. </figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostThe Saline County Sheriff's Office caught an alleged thief through cellular game camera evidence between Wednesday, Feb. 14 and Saturday, Feb. 17.According to Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan, in the 4100 block of North Muir Road outside of town, a resident discovered two cellular game cameras and solar charge panels stolen from the property.Before the suspect got away with the two Muddy Outdoors trail cameras, they automatically snapped photos of him and sent them to the owner."At some point when they were taken, they emailed out pictures of the guy before he took it down," Soldan said. "So we got pictures of the guy and his vehicle. They went back in the Flock system, the cameras around town — they got the vehicle description out of Flock and identified the suspect." The victim valued each camera at around $300 and each panel at $70, so the total loss was $670. After deputies identified and connected with the suspect on Thursday, Feb. 23, he quickly turned the trail cameras over to them."He admitted to taking the cameras," Soldan said. "Since it was a misdemeanor, we requested charges against him. You need to be on-view to make an arrest in a misdemeanor theft, but we did identify a 41-year-old suspect who we will request a warrant for theft."Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.

Photos sent from stolen game cameras helps identify suspect

Early Friday morning, the Salina Police Department received a Flock Safety Camera license plate reader notification on a stolen vehicle from the Wichita area.

According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, at around 6:10 a.m., a stolen Chevrolet passenger car drove into Salina and alerted the Flock camera system.

Officers then located the vehicle around the Walmart area, but the car took off and fled south on Interstate 135. 

"Officers pursued, and the pursuit was then taken over by Kansas Highway Patrol," Feldman said. "The pursuit went into McPherson County. Speeds did reach over 100 mph. The vehicle exited off I-135 and went westbound toward Marquette."

At some point in the pursuit, Feldman said either local law enforcement or KHP troopers used a tire deflation device, but the suspect continued driving on flat tires.

KHP troopers brought the pursuit to an end near Marquette and took two people into custody. The driver was 42-year-old Michael Trautloff from Haven, Kan., and the other was an unnamed female passenger with an active warrant from Sedgwick County.

Feldman said KHP troopers transported the female passenger to Wichita, and SPD officers booked Trautloff into the Saline County Jail with requested charges for one count of felony flee and elude and one count of obstruction.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3f986d42-3dab-4177-9bd9-0d8e547f1959">Bavaria home under renovation burglarized — more than $5,000 in electronics stolen</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574355645622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostEarly Friday morning, the Salina Police Department received a Flock Safety Camera license plate reader notification on a stolen vehicle from the Wichita area.According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, at around 6:10 a.m., a stolen Chevrolet passenger car drove into Salina and alerted the Flock camera system.Officers then located the vehicle around the Walmart area, but the car took off and fled south on Interstate 135. "Officers pursued, and the pursuit was then taken over by Kansas Highway Patrol," Feldman said. "The pursuit went into McPherson County. Speeds did reach over 100 mph. The vehicle exited off I-135 and went westbound toward Marquette."At some point in the pursuit, Feldman said either local law enforcement or KHP troopers used a tire deflation device, but the suspect continued driving on flat tires.KHP troopers brought the pursuit to an end near Marquette and took two people into custody. The driver was 42-year-old Michael Trautloff from Haven, Kan., and the other was an unnamed female passenger with an active warrant from Sedgwick County.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708779208475.jpeg" alt="Trautloff, Michael Lee" />
 <figcaption>Trautloff, Michael Lee</figcaption>
 </figure>Feldman said KHP troopers transported the female passenger to Wichita, and SPD officers booked Trautloff into the Saline County Jail with requested charges for one count of felony flee and elude and one count of obstruction.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3f986d42-3dab-4177-9bd9-0d8e547f1959">Bavaria home under renovation burglarized — more than $5,000 in electronics stolen</a>

Flock cameras catch stolen car from Wichita in town, KHP pursuit leads to Marquette

The Saline County Sheriff's Department reported to Bavaria, Kan., this week after a pair of homeowners discovered more than $5,000 in electronic devices missing from their residence.

Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander said sometime between Saturday, Feb. 17 and Tuesday, Feb. 20, an unknown suspect broke into a side of the house that the homeowners were renovating.

The residents were removing and replacing walls and doors, so the portion under renovation was closed off from the rest of the home.

"We don't know how entry was made," Melander said. "How they got in could have been a door, but the door has since been removed during the renovation process."

Once the homeowners noticed the break-in, they found that a 75-inch Panasonic 4k TV, a black Chromebook, a DeWalt impact drill, a DeWalt circular saw and two batteries and chargers were missing from the house.

The suspect stole about $5,355 worth of electronics from the home, with the Panasonic TV, valued at $4,800, accounting for most of the loss.

Melander said the Sheriff's Office does not have suspects currently but continues to investigate the crime.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/8a618342-b7c4-4154-86a5-f2fe2e859931">Salina man allegedly steals $11,000 worth of silver and gold from senior resident</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. " />
 <figcaption>The Saline County Sheriff's Office located at 800 E. Pacific Avenue in Salina. </figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostThe Saline County Sheriff's Department reported to Bavaria, Kan., this week after a pair of homeowners discovered more than $5,000 in electronic devices missing from their residence.Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander said sometime between Saturday, Feb. 17 and Tuesday, Feb. 20, an unknown suspect broke into a side of the house that the homeowners were renovating.The residents were removing and replacing walls and doors, so the portion under renovation was closed off from the rest of the home."We don't know how entry was made," Melander said. "How they got in could have been a door, but the door has since been removed during the renovation process."Once the homeowners noticed the break-in, they found that a 75-inch Panasonic 4k TV, a black Chromebook, a DeWalt impact drill, a DeWalt circular saw and two batteries and chargers were missing from the house.The suspect stole about $5,355 worth of electronics from the home, with the Panasonic TV, valued at $4,800, accounting for most of the loss.Melander said the Sheriff's Office does not have suspects currently but continues to investigate the crime.Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/8a618342-b7c4-4154-86a5-f2fe2e859931">Salina man allegedly steals $11,000 worth of silver and gold from senior resident</a>

Bavaria home under renovation burglarized — more than $5,000 in electronics stolen

A 75-year-old Salina resident returned home after an unknown amount of time and discovered $11,000 worth of antique coins and precious metals stolen from her safe.

Salina Police Department officers visited a residence in the 1900 block of Valley View Drive on Sunday, Feb. 18, after the homeowner reported numerous silver and gold bars alongside multiple Silver Eagle coins stolen.

According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, the homeowner found a broken key in the safe's lock and asked 33-year-old Salina resident Blaine Godinez to help her force the safe open.

Feldman said the homeowner reported that Godinez was housesitting while she was away.

"Mr. Godinez provided a possible suspect," Feldman said. "The officers began investigating and determined that the suspect had conducted several pawn transactions, one at a local pawn shop and one in Junction City. When they located this suspect, he indicated that it was actually Mr. Godinez who had given him the items."

Further investigation found that Godinez made numerous transactions with local pawn shops and sold the antique coins, which officers identified as originating from the victim's safe.

Officers also found that Godinez stole one of the victim's credit cards and used it online to make purchases.

SPD officers then arrested Godinez and requested charges for five counts of making a false writing, seven counts of misdemeanor theft by deception, two counts of felony theft by deception, one count of felony theft, four counts of criminal use of a credit card and one count of unlawful computer act.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/e629a821-3edb-4049-bbba-a7500b15a2d8">Alleged violent offender leads SPD through downtown on pursuit</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708525524631.png" alt="Godinez, Blaine Allen" />
 <figcaption>Godinez, Blaine Allen</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostA 75-year-old Salina resident returned home after an unknown amount of time and discovered $11,000 worth of antique coins and precious metals stolen from her safe.Salina Police Department officers visited a residence in the 1900 block of Valley View Drive on Sunday, Feb. 18, after the homeowner reported numerous silver and gold bars alongside multiple Silver Eagle coins stolen.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708635077781.jpg" alt="silver, coin, proof silver eagle. Image courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>silver, coin, proof silver eagle. Image courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, the homeowner found a broken key in the safe's lock and asked 33-year-old Salina resident Blaine Godinez to help her force the safe open.Feldman said the homeowner reported that Godinez was housesitting while she was away."Mr. Godinez provided a possible suspect," Feldman said. "The officers began investigating and determined that the suspect had conducted several pawn transactions, one at a local pawn shop and one in Junction City. When they located this suspect, he indicated that it was actually Mr. Godinez who had given him the items."Further investigation found that Godinez made numerous transactions with local pawn shops and sold the antique coins, which officers identified as originating from the victim's safe.Officers also found that Godinez stole one of the victim's credit cards and used it online to make purchases.SPD officers then arrested Godinez and requested charges for five counts of making a false writing, seven counts of misdemeanor theft by deception, two counts of felony theft by deception, one count of felony theft, four counts of criminal use of a credit card and one count of unlawful computer act.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/e629a821-3edb-4049-bbba-a7500b15a2d8">Alleged violent offender leads SPD through downtown on pursuit</a>

Salina man allegedly steals $11,000 worth of silver and gold from senior resident

Submitted by Kansas Justice Institute

Steve Howard, the owner of the iconic burger joint, The Cozy Inn,&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUTWVmLiTQcdKeCuRdHGrhObFtpAmqNqXzpRRwxU4Zb2-2BoEyY03VwQVkWBe6RECH38iYVm0KzdGhLXN0bDZZvwls-3D-MCN_7wBycvMPybCLu9GEHh-2FcwqfbnXzgwmf7GRZSag-2BFX4lUpRt6aeWBQhflJsGWNYaQ8qxX7ipByHIK4v-2FxkDTNjzJ3funygAXOW8VTBoXX1SdPiWInznp49Uq13sycpaAMzqgtbobwD7gTiYtCJZVqF-2Fk9Z0PqkuOgn0ah2l9ofTcwMK5gqFzm7PFE9e2rUiqz1888kcw-2BIMziWPu503DZBedxTC-2FWPU5lVTIlKkx4fKz2zpNjbEVyWS7diBaj6MIiuQz-2FNAambyU5ffDHq3lusQjc6OxiFNHhKTLgeC5avT4SwWXn6nYsH6NKMY2uH-2FPkKSHd6rLKjEounYBz8DSVEk9QJ59001oKM3dc7Gy2E04-3D" target="_blank">filed a federal lawsuit</a>&nbsp;against the City of Salina, Kansas, on Monday, after city officials told Howard he had to stop painting a mural on the side of The Cozy. The Cozy is a Salina landmark that has been serving hamburgers for more than 100 years.

“Salina is my hometown, I love it here,” said Howard. “I want to finish my mural.”&nbsp;

Salina is a vibrant and unique community, with beautiful murals adorning the walls of countless buildings. Steve wanted The Cozy to be a part of the artistic culture of Salina and hired local artist Colin Benson to paint a whimsical mural depicting burger-esque flying saucers piloted by aliens attacking The Cozy with blasts of ketchup and mustard. But city officials ordered Steve to halt work on the half-finished mural.

According to city officials, because Steve sells hamburgers, and the flying saucers in his mural look like hamburgers, the City of Salina considers his mural to be a regulated sign—instead of unregulated artwork—and therefore, a violation of the city code.

But the First Amendment does not allow the City of Salina to restrict speech, such as murals and other artwork, based on the message it conveys or the identity of the mural’s owner.&nbsp;

Mr. Howard and The Cozy teamed up with Kansas Justice Institute (KJI) to file the lawsuit. The lawsuit does not seek money from the City of Salina. Instead, the lawsuit argues that the City of Salina’s restrictions on murals violate the freedom of speech guaranteed by the First Amendment.&nbsp;

“Downtown Salina is vibrant, unique, and beautiful. The Cozy’s artistic mural is too. The First Amendment protects the right to finish the mural,” says Sam MacRoberts, KJI litigation director. “Salina is a great city with a set of really bad, unconstitutional laws and policies.”&nbsp;

“Over 90% of our customers are travelers,” says Steve, “I want them to feel the fun and excitement when they get here. My customers traveled hundreds or thousands of miles, and they are excited but now they are finally here, and it is fun when they see the aliens who traveled light-years to get here.”

This case is part of KJI’s litigation campaign challenging laws that interfere with the right to free speech. It’s also part of KJI’s litigation efforts to fight back against city hall.&nbsp;

In 2019, KJI successfully sued the State of Kansas over its&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUTWVmLiTQcdKeCuRdHGrhOa1v2buYG7xR-2B86a-2Fbmjn1rDn00tGZuloWDfDByqrCsgA-3D-3DdfXu_7wBycvMPybCLu9GEHh-2FcwqfbnXzgwmf7GRZSag-2BFX4lUpRt6aeWBQhflJsGWNYaQ8qxX7ipByHIK4v-2FxkDTNjzJ3funygAXOW8VTBoXX1SdPiWInznp49Uq13sycpaAMzqgtbobwD7gTiYtCJZVqF-2Fk9Z0PqkuOgn0ah2l9ofTcwMK5gqFzm7PFE9e2rUiqz1888kcw-2BIMziWPu503DZBRXi9nQI64CyjCa9KeCc41xW83PhgCbk5QYkSJEJo9Nk6yqdjNBo8NI9xk8vWxSfL4EdCpj-2FiKGrpuG8gjU4qb8tlJnZ5O1aHNmRhdv-2BBjWY4fQNHNUy1HnvVJ-2BHsz1DrtrKUHV0R3yLOjH5GsPEPJ4-3D" target="_blank">raw milk advertising prohibition</a>, and just last year, KJI sued the City of Ottawa, Kansas, over its home-based business prohibitions involving&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUTWVmLiTQcdKeCuRdHGrhObFtpAmqNqXzpRRwxU4Zb2-2B8MP26JtP6-2FPF9ZhnIskee-2B1zxaZlL-2F6QDNvPNB6TwrlgXTchLYzbuS4xOSD2f-2FVI_Fs2_7wBycvMPybCLu9GEHh-2FcwqfbnXzgwmf7GRZSag-2BFX4lUpRt6aeWBQhflJsGWNYaQ8qxX7ipByHIK4v-2FxkDTNjzJ3funygAXOW8VTBoXX1SdPiWInznp49Uq13sycpaAMzqgtbobwD7gTiYtCJZVqF-2Fk9Z0PqkuOgn0ah2l9ofTcwMK5gqFzm7PFE9e2rUiqz1888kcw-2BIMziWPu503DZBXzChPkKYFxrc6C-2FBVF4yVbSGI3XOvOZXbml2akyMhaq6c6ZPC13HpxKBdJkIGgCxDSCA1Vm37JEo6w1sEdIc8UZLWDN6Hh9MqCPsIyanwrhlMHsNgp177Z2sClZ-2BD7CbQKsY4PH2cRY4-2BrT6KMS5WU-3D" target="_blank">beekeeping and gardening</a>.&nbsp;

Salina Post is following this story and will post updates as new information becomes available.

<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>Submitted by Kansas Justice InstituteSteve Howard, the owner of the iconic burger joint, The Cozy Inn,&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUTWVmLiTQcdKeCuRdHGrhObFtpAmqNqXzpRRwxU4Zb2-2BoEyY03VwQVkWBe6RECH38iYVm0KzdGhLXN0bDZZvwls-3D-MCN_7wBycvMPybCLu9GEHh-2FcwqfbnXzgwmf7GRZSag-2BFX4lUpRt6aeWBQhflJsGWNYaQ8qxX7ipByHIK4v-2FxkDTNjzJ3funygAXOW8VTBoXX1SdPiWInznp49Uq13sycpaAMzqgtbobwD7gTiYtCJZVqF-2Fk9Z0PqkuOgn0ah2l9ofTcwMK5gqFzm7PFE9e2rUiqz1888kcw-2BIMziWPu503DZBedxTC-2FWPU5lVTIlKkx4fKz2zpNjbEVyWS7diBaj6MIiuQz-2FNAambyU5ffDHq3lusQjc6OxiFNHhKTLgeC5avT4SwWXn6nYsH6NKMY2uH-2FPkKSHd6rLKjEounYBz8DSVEk9QJ59001oKM3dc7Gy2E04-3D" target="_blank">filed a federal lawsuit</a>&nbsp;against the City of Salina, Kansas, on Monday, after city officials told Howard he had to stop painting a mural on the side of The Cozy. The Cozy is a Salina landmark that has been serving hamburgers for more than 100 years.“Salina is my hometown, I love it here,” said Howard. “I want to finish my mural.”&nbsp;Salina is a vibrant and unique community, with beautiful murals adorning the walls of countless buildings. Steve wanted The Cozy to be a part of the artistic culture of Salina and hired local artist Colin Benson to paint a whimsical mural depicting burger-esque flying saucers piloted by aliens attacking The Cozy with blasts of ketchup and mustard. But city officials ordered Steve to halt work on the half-finished mural.According to city officials, because Steve sells hamburgers, and the flying saucers in his mural look like hamburgers, the City of Salina considers his mural to be a regulated sign—instead of unregulated artwork—and therefore, a violation of the city code.But the First Amendment does not allow the City of Salina to restrict speech, such as murals and other artwork, based on the message it conveys or the identity of the mural’s owner.&nbsp;Mr. Howard and The Cozy teamed up with Kansas Justice Institute (KJI) to file the lawsuit. The lawsuit does not seek money from the City of Salina. Instead, the lawsuit argues that the City of Salina’s restrictions on murals violate the freedom of speech guaranteed by the First Amendment.&nbsp;“Downtown Salina is vibrant, unique, and beautiful. The Cozy’s artistic mural is too. The First Amendment protects the right to finish the mural,” says Sam MacRoberts, KJI litigation director. “Salina is a great city with a set of really bad, unconstitutional laws and policies.”&nbsp;“Over 90% of our customers are travelers,” says Steve, “I want them to feel the fun and excitement when they get here. My customers traveled hundreds or thousands of miles, and they are excited but now they are finally here, and it is fun when they see the aliens who traveled light-years to get here.”This case is part of KJI’s litigation campaign challenging laws that interfere with the right to free speech. It’s also part of KJI’s litigation efforts to fight back against city hall.&nbsp;In 2019, KJI successfully sued the State of Kansas over its&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUTWVmLiTQcdKeCuRdHGrhOa1v2buYG7xR-2B86a-2Fbmjn1rDn00tGZuloWDfDByqrCsgA-3D-3DdfXu_7wBycvMPybCLu9GEHh-2FcwqfbnXzgwmf7GRZSag-2BFX4lUpRt6aeWBQhflJsGWNYaQ8qxX7ipByHIK4v-2FxkDTNjzJ3funygAXOW8VTBoXX1SdPiWInznp49Uq13sycpaAMzqgtbobwD7gTiYtCJZVqF-2Fk9Z0PqkuOgn0ah2l9ofTcwMK5gqFzm7PFE9e2rUiqz1888kcw-2BIMziWPu503DZBRXi9nQI64CyjCa9KeCc41xW83PhgCbk5QYkSJEJo9Nk6yqdjNBo8NI9xk8vWxSfL4EdCpj-2FiKGrpuG8gjU4qb8tlJnZ5O1aHNmRhdv-2BBjWY4fQNHNUy1HnvVJ-2BHsz1DrtrKUHV0R3yLOjH5GsPEPJ4-3D" target="_blank">raw milk advertising prohibition</a>, and just last year, KJI sued the City of Ottawa, Kansas, over its home-based business prohibitions involving&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUTWVmLiTQcdKeCuRdHGrhObFtpAmqNqXzpRRwxU4Zb2-2B8MP26JtP6-2FPF9ZhnIskee-2B1zxaZlL-2F6QDNvPNB6TwrlgXTchLYzbuS4xOSD2f-2FVI_Fs2_7wBycvMPybCLu9GEHh-2FcwqfbnXzgwmf7GRZSag-2BFX4lUpRt6aeWBQhflJsGWNYaQ8qxX7ipByHIK4v-2FxkDTNjzJ3funygAXOW8VTBoXX1SdPiWInznp49Uq13sycpaAMzqgtbobwD7gTiYtCJZVqF-2Fk9Z0PqkuOgn0ah2l9ofTcwMK5gqFzm7PFE9e2rUiqz1888kcw-2BIMziWPu503DZBXzChPkKYFxrc6C-2FBVF4yVbSGI3XOvOZXbml2akyMhaq6c6ZPC13HpxKBdJkIGgCxDSCA1Vm37JEo6w1sEdIc8UZLWDN6Hh9MqCPsIyanwrhlMHsNgp177Z2sClZ-2BD7CbQKsY4PH2cRY4-2BrT6KMS5WU-3D" target="_blank">beekeeping and gardening</a>.&nbsp;Salina Post is following this story and will post updates as new information becomes available.

Iconic restaurant, The Cozy Inn, sues Salina over right to paint a one-of-a-kind mural

During a routine business check by a Salina Police Department officer at the Salina Travel Plaza, staff notified the officer that someone had broken in between Friday, Feb. 16, and Saturday, Feb. 17.

According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, the burglary occurred between 10:45 p.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. on Saturday, but staff and officers did not find evidence of forced entry into the business.

"When he [the officer] made contact with an employee who thought that the business might have been broken into, they did not see any forced entry," Feldman said. "But a check indicated that office supplies were stolen, which includes pens, papers, a laminator, a stamping set and some cash."

The employee reported that about $300 was missing from the business and valued the laminator at around $600. 

Feldman said there are no suspects, but officers continue to investigate the crime.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574271818216.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostDuring a routine business check by a Salina Police Department officer at the Salina Travel Plaza, staff notified the officer that someone had broken in between Friday, Feb. 16, and Saturday, Feb. 17.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d6408.675971571277!2d-97.64263333207823!3d38.827878731695975!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bccf2e21e9605b%3A0x5d93b580cd57867c!2s2140%20W%20Crawford%20St%2C%20Salina%2C%20KS%2067401!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1708465398879!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, the burglary occurred between 10:45 p.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. on Saturday, but staff and officers did not find evidence of forced entry into the business."When he [the officer] made contact with an employee who thought that the business might have been broken into, they did not see any forced entry," Feldman said. "But a check indicated that office supplies were stolen, which includes pens, papers, a laminator, a stamping set and some cash."The employee reported that about $300 was missing from the business and valued the laminator at around $600. Feldman said there are no suspects, but 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/fc7ed532-a1ba-46b6-85c3-4ed867abb15a">Iconic restaurant, The Cozy Inn, sues Salina over right to paint a one-of-a-kind mural</a>

Cash and office supplies stolen from Salina Travel Plaza

The City of Salina has been notified that it has been
named as a defendant in a federal district court civil lawsuit
challenging the constitutionality of certain aspects of the City’s
sign code and its application to a partially installed painted wall
sign at The Cozy Inn. Although the City believes its current sign
code enforcement is legally justified, there have been ongoing
conversations about The Cozy Inn sign as well as possible policy
changes the community may wish to undertake while providing
for the administration of any proposed exceptions or policy
changes in a fair and impartial manner community-wide.


In establishing sign regulations, communities are
attempting to set up a set of standards that can be equally and
fairly applied across all property owners, businesses, tenants,
etc. that are within the same zoning district. Nationwide, this has
frequently resulted in regulations similar to what Salina has in
place that establish a ratio of signage numbers and size based
on building or street frontage to maintain a level of proportionality
to the building.


The City of Salina has been very deliberate and
consistent in its regulation of signs in the community in light of
the applicable case law regarding the standards by which signs
and commercial speech may be regulated. The City believes its
sign code and administration of the sign code are compliant with
the volume of court cases that exist on this topic. Over the last
decade, the regulation of signage and public art has become an
increasingly challenging discussion for communities across the
United States because of differing opinions on what is art and
what is commercial signage.


The City previously committed to enlisting the services of
a sign code consultant as a subject matter expert to assist with
conducting community listening sessions and drafting possible
policy-based amendments for further consideration in response
to community input that is received. Wendy Moeller,
Principal/Owner of Compass Point Planning, has been retained
by the City and 5 stakeholder meetings were held on February
15th &amp; 16th including a public listening session for the public at
large.


There will be additional public meetings conducted as part
of this project. Interested parties can email questions and
comments to signs@salina.org. They may also receive project
notifications by subscribing to the “sign code” email list at
https://www.salina-ks.gov/notification-hub.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016826196.jpeg" alt="Snow blankets the Salina City and Saline County building during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Snow blankets the Salina City and Saline County building during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe City of Salina has been notified that it has been
named as a defendant in a federal district court civil lawsuit
challenging the constitutionality of certain aspects of the City’s
sign code and its application to a partially installed painted wall
sign at The Cozy Inn. Although the City believes its current sign
code enforcement is legally justified, there have been ongoing
conversations about The Cozy Inn sign as well as possible policy
changes the community may wish to undertake while providing
for the administration of any proposed exceptions or policy
changes in a fair and impartial manner community-wide.
In establishing sign regulations, communities are
attempting to set up a set of standards that can be equally and
fairly applied across all property owners, businesses, tenants,
etc. that are within the same zoning district. Nationwide, this has
frequently resulted in regulations similar to what Salina has in
place that establish a ratio of signage numbers and size based
on building or street frontage to maintain a level of proportionality
to the building.
The City of Salina has been very deliberate and
consistent in its regulation of signs in the community in light of
the applicable case law regarding the standards by which signs
and commercial speech may be regulated. The City believes its
sign code and administration of the sign code are compliant with
the volume of court cases that exist on this topic. Over the last
decade, the regulation of signage and public art has become an
increasingly challenging discussion for communities across the
United States because of differing opinions on what is art and
what is commercial signage.
The City previously committed to enlisting the services of
a sign code consultant as a subject matter expert to assist with
conducting community listening sessions and drafting possible
policy-based amendments for further consideration in response
to community input that is received. Wendy Moeller,
Principal/Owner of Compass Point Planning, has been retained
by the City and 5 stakeholder meetings were held on February
15th &amp; 16th including a public listening session for the public at
large.
There will be additional public meetings conducted as part
of this project. Interested parties can email questions and
comments to signs@salina.org. They may also receive project
notifications by subscribing to the “sign code” email list at
https://www.salina-ks.gov/notification-hub.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/fc7ed532-a1ba-46b6-85c3-4ed867abb15a">Iconic restaurant, The Cozy Inn, sues Salina over right to paint a one-of-a-kind mural</a>

City of Salina issues statement regarding lawsuit on Cozy Inn

A violent offender led Salina Police Department officers through downtown during a police pursuit on Tuesday.

The Kansas Department of Corrections notified SPD officers that it needed assistance in arresting 40-year-old Jason Michael Lynn, whom KDOC special agents described as a violent offender.

According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, KDOC contacted the department at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 20, about Lynn and said he had violated his parole orders. 

"Special agents observed him leaving a residence in the 400 block of West Ash Street," Feldman said. "Officers arrived in the area, and the subject was leaving in a 2012 Toyota Prius. Officers attempted to stop him, but he failed to stop, and we had a pursuit."

Officers attempted to stop the vehicle on Ash Street, but Lynn drove away and led officers throughout downtown before crashing into a house on East Iron Avenue.

Feldman said the pursuit did not reach high speeds through most of its duration, remaining around the posted speed limits, but when Lynn traveled eastbound on Iron Avenue, he reached 50 to 55 mph.

After the Prius struck the home, SPD officers arrested Lynn and requested charges for felony flee and elude, felony damage to property, reckless driving and driving while suspended.

The crash did not seriously injure Lynn; no one was home when he wrecked the Prius. Feldman said the house did not sustain any severe damage.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708525769708.png" alt="Lynn, Jason Michael" />
 <figcaption>Lynn, Jason Michael</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostA violent offender led Salina Police Department officers through downtown during a police pursuit on Tuesday.The Kansas Department of Corrections notified SPD officers that it needed assistance in arresting 40-year-old Jason Michael Lynn, whom KDOC special agents described as a violent offender.According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, KDOC contacted the department at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 20, about Lynn and said he had violated his parole orders. "Special agents observed him leaving a residence in the 400 block of West Ash Street," Feldman said. "Officers arrived in the area, and the subject was leaving in a 2012 Toyota Prius. Officers attempted to stop him, but he failed to stop, and we had a pursuit."Officers attempted to stop the vehicle on Ash Street, but Lynn drove away and led officers throughout downtown before crashing into a house on East Iron Avenue.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708550545767.png" alt="Tuesday afternoon Salina Police Department pursuit of Jason Michael Lynn. Graphic by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Tuesday afternoon Salina Police Department pursuit of Jason Michael Lynn. Graphic by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Feldman said the pursuit did not reach high speeds through most of its duration, remaining around the posted speed limits, but when Lynn traveled eastbound on Iron Avenue, he reached 50 to 55 mph.After the Prius struck the home, SPD officers arrested Lynn and requested charges for felony flee and elude, felony damage to property, reckless driving and driving while suspended.The crash did not seriously injure Lynn; no one was home when he wrecked the Prius. Feldman said the house did not sustain any severe damage.

Alleged violent offender leads SPD through downtown on pursuit

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

Salina Police Department officers reported to Central Mall yesterday evening for a report of a battery at the AMC Theatres. When officers arrived, they found another crime unfolding in the parking lot in front of Dunham's Sports.

According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, officers dispatched to the Central Mall at 6:20 p.m., and once they arrived, they communicated with a 14-year-old boy and his parents about a possible criminal threat.

"It was reported that the male [the 14-year-old boy] had been on the other side of the mall when he and several friends began being chased around the mall by three other subjects," Feldman said. "While running, he ended up calling his mother saying he's being chased and then he went into Dunham's."

Feldman said shortly after the boy called his mother, she arrived and told her son to exit the store and meet her in the parking lot. Once he left Dunham's, one of the three subjects, a 17-year-old boy, confronted him.

The mother and stepfather of the boy then stepped between the two children to de-escalate the confrontation when the 17-year-old began threatening the family.

"He began making threats toward them, including that he knows where they live and he will get them," Feldman said. "At the time, he was wearing a backpack and reached in like he had a gun."

As the 17-year-old subject heard sirens, he ran from the scene north into a residential area. Feldman said an off-duty detective who heard the sirens nearby eventually apprehended the suspect and found no gun in the backpack on his person.

"No gun was located, and it is believed that no gun was involved," Feldman said. 

The boy did not resist arrest, and officers requested charges of aggravated assault, criminal threat, battery and possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

After his arrest, officers transported the boy to juvenile detention in Junction City. Feldman said there may be future arrests related to this case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708539416271.jpeg" alt="Salina Police Department officers arrest the 17-year-old boy who allegedly chased a 14-year-old boy around Central Mall and threatened him, on Tuesday, Feb. 20, just north of Central Mall. Photo by Nate King" />
 <figcaption>Salina Police Department officers arrest the 17-year-old boy who allegedly chased a 14-year-old boy around Central Mall and threatened him, on Tuesday, Feb. 20, just north of Central Mall. Photo by Nate King</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostSalina Police Department officers reported to Central Mall yesterday evening for a report of a battery at the AMC Theatres. When officers arrived, they found another crime unfolding in the parking lot in front of Dunham's Sports.According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, officers dispatched to the Central Mall at 6:20 p.m., and once they arrived, they communicated with a 14-year-old boy and his parents about a possible criminal threat."It was reported that the male [the 14-year-old boy] had been on the other side of the mall when he and several friends began being chased around the mall by three other subjects," Feldman said. "While running, he ended up calling his mother saying he's being chased and then he went into Dunham's."Feldman said shortly after the boy called his mother, she arrived and told her son to exit the store and meet her in the parking lot. Once he left Dunham's, one of the three subjects, a 17-year-old boy, confronted him.The mother and stepfather of the boy then stepped between the two children to de-escalate the confrontation when the 17-year-old began threatening the family."He began making threats toward them, including that he knows where they live and he will get them," Feldman said. "At the time, he was wearing a backpack and reached in like he had a gun."As the 17-year-old subject heard sirens, he ran from the scene north into a residential area. Feldman said an off-duty detective who heard the sirens nearby eventually apprehended the suspect and found no gun in the backpack on his person."No gun was located, and it is believed that no gun was involved," Feldman said. The boy did not resist arrest, and officers requested charges of aggravated assault, criminal threat, battery and possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.After his arrest, officers transported the boy to juvenile detention in Junction City. Feldman said there may be future arrests related to this case.Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.

SPD arrests teen at Central Mall for criminal threat and battery

Legendary artist Graham Nash, founding member of both the Hollies and Crosby, Stills and Nash is coming to Salina in Aug.&nbsp;

Nash is scheduled to perform at the historic Stiefel Theatre on Aug. 10 at 7:30 p.m.&nbsp;

Tickets start at $59 and go on sale Friday, Feb. 23 at 10 a.m. 

Those interested in attending can purchase tickets person, or at the Stiefel Theatre Box Office and online at <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>. 785-827-1998

Legendary artist Graham Nash, as a founding member of both the Hollies and Crosby, Stills and Nash, is a two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee who has seen rock history unfold at some of its seminal moments – from the launch of the British Invasion (that’s him on-screen in 1967, eyewitness to the Beatles global broadcast performance of “All You Need Is Love” from Abbey Road studios) to the birth of the Laurel Canyon movement a year later. 

An extraordinary Grammy Award® winning renaissance artist – and self-described “simple man” – Nash was inducted twice into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, for his work with CSN and his work as a solo artist, beginning with two landmark albums,&nbsp;Songs For Beginners&nbsp;and&nbsp;Wild Tales.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Towering above virtually everything that Graham Nash has accomplished in his long and multi-faceted career, stands the litany of songs that he has written and introduced to the soundtrack of our lives for nearly six decades. Nash’s remarkable body of work began with his contributions to the Hollies opus from 1964 to ’68, including “Stop Stop Stop,” “On A Carousel,” “Carrie Anne,” “King Midas In Reverse,” and “Jennifer Eccles,” and continues all the way to&nbsp;Now&nbsp;(2023), his most recent solo album.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The original classic union of Crosby, Stills &amp; Nash (&amp; Young) lasted but twenty months.&nbsp; Yet their songs are lightning rods embedded in our DNA, starting with Nash’s “Marrakesh Express,” “Pre-Road Downs” and “Lady Of the Island,” from the first&nbsp;Crosby, Stills &amp; Nash&nbsp;LP (1969).&nbsp; On CSNY’s&nbsp;Déjà Vu&nbsp;(1970), Nash’s iconic “Teach Your Children” and “Our House” (for Joni Mitchell) beseeched us to hold love tightly, to fend off the madness that was on its way.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nash’s career as a solo artist took flight in 1971, with the two aforementioned albums further showcasing the depths of his abilities as a singer and songwriter: his solo debut&nbsp;Songs For Beginners&nbsp;(with “Chicago/We Can Change the World” and “Military Madness”), and&nbsp;Wild Tales&nbsp;released in 1974 (with “Prison Song,” “Oh! Camil,” and “You’ll Never Be the Same”).&nbsp;&nbsp;

The most resilient, long-lived and productive partnership to emerge from the CSNY camp was launched (before Nash’s&nbsp;Wild Tales) with the eponymously titled&nbsp;Graham Nash/David Crosby&nbsp;(1972), bookended by Nash’s “Southbound Train” as the opening track and “Immigration Man” as the closer.&nbsp; The duo contributed further to the soundtrack of the ’70s on their back-to-back Lps,&nbsp;Wind On the Water&nbsp;(1975) and&nbsp;Whistling Down the Wire&nbsp;(1976).

Nash’s passionate voice continues to be heard in support of peace, and social and environmental justice. The No Nukes/Musicians United for Safe Energy (MUSE) concerts he organized with Jackson Browne and Bonnie Raitt in 1979 remain seminal benefit events.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In September 2013, Nash released his long-awaited autobiography&nbsp;Wild Tales, which landed him on the New York Times Best Sellers list. In recognition for his contributions as a musician and philanthropist, Nash was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by Queen Elizabeth.

While continually building his musical legacy, Nash is also an internationally renowned photographer and visual artist whose work has been shown in galleries and museums worldwide. A collection of his photos is featured in the book&nbsp;A Life in Focus: The Photography of Graham Nash&nbsp;which was released in November 2021 by Insight Editions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016794734.jpeg" alt="Downtown Santa Fe Avenue at the Stiefel Theatre covered in snow on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Downtown Santa Fe Avenue at the Stiefel Theatre covered in snow on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTLegendary artist Graham Nash, founding member of both the Hollies and Crosby, Stills and Nash is coming to Salina in Aug.&nbsp;Nash is scheduled to perform at the historic Stiefel Theatre on Aug. 10 at 7:30 p.m.&nbsp;Tickets start at $59 and go on sale Friday, Feb. 23 at 10 a.m. Those interested in attending can purchase tickets person, or at the Stiefel Theatre Box Office and online at <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>. 785-827-1998<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708536726869.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy Stiefel Theatre" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy Stiefel Theatre</figcaption>
 </figure>Legendary artist Graham Nash, as a founding member of both the Hollies and Crosby, Stills and Nash, is a two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee who has seen rock history unfold at some of its seminal moments – from the launch of the British Invasion (that’s him on-screen in 1967, eyewitness to the Beatles global broadcast performance of “All You Need Is Love” from Abbey Road studios) to the birth of the Laurel Canyon movement a year later. An extraordinary Grammy Award® winning renaissance artist – and self-described “simple man” – Nash was inducted twice into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, for his work with CSN and his work as a solo artist, beginning with two landmark albums,&nbsp;Songs For Beginners&nbsp;and&nbsp;Wild Tales.&nbsp;&nbsp;Towering above virtually everything that Graham Nash has accomplished in his long and multi-faceted career, stands the litany of songs that he has written and introduced to the soundtrack of our lives for nearly six decades. Nash’s remarkable body of work began with his contributions to the Hollies opus from 1964 to ’68, including “Stop Stop Stop,” “On A Carousel,” “Carrie Anne,” “King Midas In Reverse,” and “Jennifer Eccles,” and continues all the way to&nbsp;Now&nbsp;(2023), his most recent solo album.&nbsp;&nbsp;The original classic union of Crosby, Stills &amp; Nash (&amp; Young) lasted but twenty months.&nbsp; Yet their songs are lightning rods embedded in our DNA, starting with Nash’s “Marrakesh Express,” “Pre-Road Downs” and “Lady Of the Island,” from the first&nbsp;Crosby, Stills &amp; Nash&nbsp;LP (1969).&nbsp; On CSNY’s&nbsp;Déjà Vu&nbsp;(1970), Nash’s iconic “Teach Your Children” and “Our House” (for Joni Mitchell) beseeched us to hold love tightly, to fend off the madness that was on its way.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nash’s career as a solo artist took flight in 1971, with the two aforementioned albums further showcasing the depths of his abilities as a singer and songwriter: his solo debut&nbsp;Songs For Beginners&nbsp;(with “Chicago/We Can Change the World” and “Military Madness”), and&nbsp;Wild Tales&nbsp;released in 1974 (with “Prison Song,” “Oh! Camil,” and “You’ll Never Be the Same”).&nbsp;&nbsp;The most resilient, long-lived and productive partnership to emerge from the CSNY camp was launched (before Nash’s&nbsp;Wild Tales) with the eponymously titled&nbsp;Graham Nash/David Crosby&nbsp;(1972), bookended by Nash’s “Southbound Train” as the opening track and “Immigration Man” as the closer.&nbsp; The duo contributed further to the soundtrack of the ’70s on their back-to-back Lps,&nbsp;Wind On the Water&nbsp;(1975) and&nbsp;Whistling Down the Wire&nbsp;(1976).Nash’s passionate voice continues to be heard in support of peace, and social and environmental justice. The No Nukes/Musicians United for Safe Energy (MUSE) concerts he organized with Jackson Browne and Bonnie Raitt in 1979 remain seminal benefit events.&nbsp;&nbsp;In September 2013, Nash released his long-awaited autobiography&nbsp;Wild Tales, which landed him on the New York Times Best Sellers list. In recognition for his contributions as a musician and philanthropist, Nash was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by Queen Elizabeth. While continually building his musical legacy, Nash is also an internationally renowned photographer and visual artist whose work has been shown in galleries and museums worldwide. A collection of his photos is featured in the book&nbsp;A Life in Focus: The Photography of Graham Nash&nbsp;which was released in November 2021 by Insight Editions.

Graham Nash to perform at Salina's Stiefel Theatre in Aug.

Last week, a local realtor contacted the Saline County Sheriff's Office after discovering a break-in and burglary at one of the homes listed with their company.

According to County Sheriff Roger Soldan, sometime between Thursday, Nov. 23 and Monday, Feb. 12, an unknown suspect entered an unoccupied residence at 4109 E. North Street just east of Salina.

"This house has been for sale for some time," Soldan said. "Someone got in the house and stole a brand new Kenmore 50-gallon water heater that had been put in the residence, trying to sell it — valued at $800."

Soldan said the realtor contacted deputies after finding drag marks in the kitchen after they went to check on the home.

The burglar also ransacked the basement for copper pipe and electrical wiring, totaling the estimated damages to the home around $5,000.

Saline County Sheriff's deputies continue investigating the crime but have not named any suspect in connection with the burglary.

READ MORE:&nbsp;Iconic restaurant, The Cozy Inn, sues Salina over right to paint a one-of-a-kind mural

<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. " />
 <figcaption>The Saline County Sheriff's Office located at 800 E. Pacific Avenue in Salina. </figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostLast week, a local realtor contacted the Saline County Sheriff's Office after discovering a break-in and burglary at one of the homes listed with their company.According to County Sheriff Roger Soldan, sometime between Thursday, Nov. 23 and Monday, Feb. 12, an unknown suspect entered an unoccupied residence at 4109 E. North Street just east of Salina."This house has been for sale for some time," Soldan said. "Someone got in the house and stole a brand new Kenmore 50-gallon water heater that had been put in the residence, trying to sell it — valued at $800."Soldan said the realtor contacted deputies after finding drag marks in the kitchen after they went to check on the home.The burglar also ransacked the basement for copper pipe and electrical wiring, totaling the estimated damages to the home around $5,000.Saline County Sheriff's deputies continue investigating the crime but have not named any suspect in connection with the burglary.Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.READ MORE:&nbsp;Iconic restaurant, The Cozy Inn, sues Salina over right to paint a one-of-a-kind mural

Home listed for sale burglarized near Salina

Sometime between 3 and 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 18, an unknown suspect stole $600 worth of Barbie dolls from a residence in Salina.

According to Salina Police Department Capt. James Feldman, the suspect, only stole a collection of Barbie dolls placed on a shelf in the home.

"No forced entry was observed," Feldman said. "[The suspect stole] 20 to 25 Barbies... valued at $600 total."

Feldman said the report did not include if the Barbie dolls were on display but that most were dolls from the Barbie Holiday Collection.

The home did not have surveillance cameras, so no video footage of the crime was available for evidence. SPD officers continue to investigate the burglary.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574355645622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostSometime between 3 and 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 18, an unknown suspect stole $600 worth of Barbie dolls from a residence in Salina.According to Salina Police Department Capt. James Feldman, the suspect, only stole a collection of Barbie dolls placed on a shelf in the home."No forced entry was observed," Feldman said. "[The suspect stole] 20 to 25 Barbies... valued at $600 total."Feldman said the report did not include if the Barbie dolls were on display but that most were dolls from the Barbie Holiday Collection.The home did not have surveillance cameras, so no video footage of the crime was available for evidence. SPD officers continue to investigate the burglary.Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/fc7ed532-a1ba-46b6-85c3-4ed867abb15a">Iconic restaurant, The Cozy Inn, sues Salina over right to paint a one-of-a-kind mural</a>

Collection of Barbie dolls stolen from Salina residence

By NATE KING Salina Post

School attendance may be lacking nationwide, but at St. Mary's Elementary School, students eagerly race to class to hug the newest faculty member at Salina Catholic Schools, Jade, a silver labrador retriever professional therapy dog.

Following the COVID-19 Pandemic, Salina Catholic schools learned tough lessons about emotional regulation. Therapy dogs provide support and comfort to individuals in need by using their social instincts and skills to offer socio-emotional, cognitive, and health benefits.

Tym Bonilla, St. Mary's Elementary School principal, said having a therapy dog on campus has become integral to learning. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707837383271.jpeg" alt="Jade, the professional therapy dog, visits Saint Mary's Grade School each day with Kindergarten teacher Jessica Jacobs to assist students and faculty through the school day. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Jade, the professional therapy dog, visits Saint Mary's Grade School each day with Kindergarten teacher Jessica Jacobs to assist students and faculty through the school day. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By NATE KING Salina PostSchool attendance may be lacking nationwide, but at St. Mary's Elementary School, students eagerly race to class to hug the newest faculty member at Salina Catholic Schools, Jade, a silver labrador retriever professional therapy dog.Following the COVID-19 Pandemic, Salina Catholic schools learned tough lessons about emotional regulation. Therapy dogs provide support and comfort to individuals in need by using their social instincts and skills to offer socio-emotional, cognitive, and health benefits.Tym Bonilla, St. Mary's Elementary School principal, said having a therapy dog on campus has become integral to learning. "Introducing Jade to the classroom has helped us emotionally regulate students," Bonilla said. "Jade helps erase certain stigmas associated with emotional struggles, depression, anxiety and anger management."St. Mary's kindergarten teacher, Jessica Jacobs, also Jade's owner, said she got the idea from seeing therapy dogs used in other schools. "When I got Jade and took her along on all of my adventures, she was so well-behaved, and everyone we encountered loved her," Jacobs said. "I knew she would make a great addition to my classroom."Jacobs said having Jade in the classroom helps teach students how to act responsibly and with empathy."She has taught students responsibility, as they have to make sure she has water, they see her bed and that she needs let out to go to the bathroom," Jacobs said. "They have also learned empathy; we talk about how we must treat her kindly and use calm bodies and voices."<h2>Professional therapy dog training</h2>Before arriving at St. Mary's, Jade participated in four months of training completed by CARES, INC., a licensed therapy dog training academy in Concordia. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707837534255.jpeg" alt="Jade the professional therapy dog sits with Jessica Jacobs and her students at Saint Mary's Grade School. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Jade the professional therapy dog sits with Jessica Jacobs and her students at Saint Mary's Grade School. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Jade's training also included spending time with the staff and inmates at the Ellsworth Prison.CARES founder and owner Sarah Holbert said training a dog to become a professional therapy dog typically starts with puppies selected from CARE's breeding program. Jade was a unique exception."We turn away a lot of dogs because they don't have the right temperament," Holbert said. "They don't have the right foundation. It just happened that Jade was one of those rare dogs that I felt would respond well to the training, and she did."Holbert stressed how rare it is to train an adult dog to become a therapy dog successfully."CARES, INC. just celebrated 30 years, and in that time, I can think of less than five times when we have successfully trained a dog from outside our breeding program to become a professional therapy dog. It is very rare," Holbert said.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/48c5a6b0-0fca-4e2e-8a31-01fc08a093d8">📸 Flashback Friday: Salina Post - The Hub - Vol. 29</a>One aspect of Jade's personality that sets her apart from other dogs is that she is incredibly accepting of all people. "Some dogs are hesitant to meet small people, like kiddos," Holbert said. "They don't know what to think about 18-month-old toddlers toddling around. Dogs can be very judgmental."One of the ways CARES helps foster positive and healthy relationships with people Jade interacts with is by using positive reinforcement."We do not treat train; we only train through positive reinforcement either by petting or verbalization like saying 'You're such a good girl,'" Holbert said. "The dog should interact with the person or the kiddo, not just look to see what they have in their hand."<h2>Bringing smiles to students</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707837444855.jpeg" alt="Jade, the professional therapy dog, sits in her bed waiting to assist students and faculty in Jessica Jacobs Kindergarten classroom. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Jade, the professional therapy dog, sits in her bed waiting to assist students and faculty in Jessica Jacobs Kindergarten classroom. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Not all dogs accept and understand the correction and positive reinforcement component. However, Jade does. Even though Jade has received treats, she is very willing and eager to work for pets rather than treats. "The students have been very excited to have her in our building. Jade helps them feel happy and calm," Jacobs said. "When Jade walks into the building or a room, everyone is all smiles."Jacobs said if students feel sad, worried, or need personal space, they can spend time with Jade to help them cope with what they are experiencing. "Jade has inspired more elaborate pretend play in our classroom. Students have incorporated different experiences with her into their play. There have also been a lot of "Jade" art projects," Jacobs said.Those interested in bringing a therapy dog program to their school or workplace can contact training academies like CARES, INC."Most programs I contacted had between a two and three-year waitlist for a dog," Jacobs said. "Interested teachers should also visit with their building administration to ensure that a school therapy dog would be allowed."