By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina Post

A 71-year-old Salina resident reported to Salina Police Department (SPD) officers that on Saturday afternoon, someone robbed him near the entrance of Walmart.

SPD Capt. James Feldman said the man reported the incident on Sunday, July 7, and told officers that two individuals approached him while he was leaving the large store.

"He was approached by a Hispanic male and female in their 40s. They stated he had dropped a $20 bill — he advised that he didn't realize it at the time, but he felt that the subjects were trying to distract him," Feldman said. "He told the subjects he did not believe he had $20 on him. The male suspect told him to check his wallet, at which point the 71-year-old opened his wallet, and there was some type of exchange."

Feldman said the man described the interaction loosely, but the 71-year-old resident said the suspect handed him a $20 bill and left the store. 

At 4:45 p.m. Sunday, the victim reported that his bank notified him that someone used his credit card to purchase a ring for more than $2,000 at Sam's Club. He then checked his wallet and found his credit card and the $20 bill the man handed him missing.

Someone later attempted to use his credit card for a smaller purchase in Wichita.

The resident then contacted SPD officers to report the incident. Feldman said the suspects' reported appearances are a 6'1" heavyset Hispanic man with a black beard and a Hispanic woman wearing a flower dress. Both appeared to be around 40 years old.

SPD officers continue investigating the alleged robbery.

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

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/25c3c794-acff-4757-957a-6a9ad943d8e8">Multiple witnesses report man for yelling profanities at Hawthorne Park</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574355645622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostA 71-year-old Salina resident reported to Salina Police Department (SPD) officers that on Saturday afternoon, someone robbed him near the entrance of Walmart.SPD Capt. James Feldman said the man reported the incident on Sunday, July 7, and told officers that two individuals approached him while he was leaving the large store."He was approached by a Hispanic male and female in their 40s. They stated he had dropped a $20 bill — he advised that he didn't realize it at the time, but he felt that the subjects were trying to distract him," Feldman said. "He told the subjects he did not believe he had $20 on him. The male suspect told him to check his wallet, at which point the 71-year-old opened his wallet, and there was some type of exchange."Feldman said the man described the interaction loosely, but the 71-year-old resident said the suspect handed him a $20 bill and left the store. At 4:45 p.m. Sunday, the victim reported that his bank notified him that someone used his credit card to purchase a ring for more than $2,000 at Sam's Club. He then checked his wallet and found his credit card and the $20 bill the man handed him missing.Someone later attempted to use his credit card for a smaller purchase in Wichita.The resident then contacted SPD officers to report the incident. Feldman said the suspects' reported appearances are a 6'1" heavyset Hispanic man with a black beard and a Hispanic woman wearing a flower dress. Both appeared to be around 40 years old.SPD officers continue investigating the alleged robbery.Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.&nbsp;READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/25c3c794-acff-4757-957a-6a9ad943d8e8">Multiple witnesses report man for yelling profanities at Hawthorne Park</a>

SPD searches for suspects after resident reports he was robbed at Walmart

Late into the day on Sunday, July 7, multiple residents at Hawthorne Park on North Ninth Street reported that a man yelled profanities at children and allegedly pushed someone while at the park.

Salina Police Department (SPD) Capt. James Feldman said multiple witnesses saw 33-year-old Salina resident Hunter Bowen enter the park and become disorderly at about 8:45 p.m. Sunday. 

Once officers arrived, they first spoke with a 20-year-old Salina woman and her children at the park, who interacted with Bowen.

"Mr. Bowen approached the female, began yelling at her and her children profane, derogatory remarks, putting the female subject in fear," Feldman said. "Mr. Bowen then approached a 20-year-old male who was in the park and pushed him multiple times and threatened to kill him."

Feldman said multiple witnesses observed Bowen's conduct at the park. After gathering information from these witnesses, SPD officers found him in the park shortly after.

Officers then arrested Bowen and requested charges of criminal threat, battery and disorderly conduct. Feldman said that SPD officers did not find evidence of intoxication.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/b24f86d4-e59c-4261-a7ba-04e9b5679bd4">SPD arrest Salina man for attempted manslaughter</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720469568554.jpeg" alt="Bowen, Hunter Matthew" />
 <figcaption>Bowen, Hunter Matthew</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostLate into the day on Sunday, July 7, multiple residents at Hawthorne Park on North Ninth Street reported that a man yelled profanities at children and allegedly pushed someone while at the park.Salina Police Department (SPD) Capt. James Feldman said multiple witnesses saw 33-year-old Salina resident Hunter Bowen enter the park and become disorderly at about 8:45 p.m. Sunday. Once officers arrived, they first spoke with a 20-year-old Salina woman and her children at the park, who interacted with Bowen."Mr. Bowen approached the female, began yelling at her and her children profane, derogatory remarks, putting the female subject in fear," Feldman said. "Mr. Bowen then approached a 20-year-old male who was in the park and pushed him multiple times and threatened to kill him."Feldman said multiple witnesses observed Bowen's conduct at the park. After gathering information from these witnesses, SPD officers found him in the park shortly after.Officers then arrested Bowen and requested charges of criminal threat, battery and disorderly conduct. Feldman said that SPD officers did not find evidence of intoxication.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/b24f86d4-e59c-4261-a7ba-04e9b5679bd4">SPD arrest Salina man for attempted manslaughter</a>

Multiple witnesses report man for yelling profanities at Hawthorne Park

Salina Police Department (SPD) officers reported to a residence in the 1200 block of Cloud Circle Saturday evening, where they met a woman with blood stains on her shirt and bloody nose — she reported that a man attacked her and threatened to kill her shortly before they arrived.

Just after 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 6, SPD officers reported to the residence on Cloud Circle after the 21-year-old woman called for help in the home.

"She indicated that while at the residence, she got into a disturbance with a Christian Lasso Olivas," said SPD Capt. James Feldman. "Christian became upset with the female and began yelling at her. He then got on top of her and began strangling her. He kept telling her that he was going to kill her and her family."

Feldman said the victim was able to push the 20-year-old Lasso Olivas off of her, but he then dragged her into another room and pushed her onto the bed. There, he allegedly continued the verbal assault and began striking her in the face.

The victim reported that on the bed, Lasso Olivas began strangling the victim again and threatened to kill her and her family. 

"She [the victim] attempted to get away from him — he then put a pillow on top of her head and pushed her into the bed," Feldman said. "As she was bleeding, she was able to ask if she could clean up the blood, he said no. She tried to get away from him but was able to keep her in the room. She then was able to get away into the kitchen where she grabbed a knife to protect herself."

Lasso Olivas had possession of the victim's phone, so the victim demanded that he return the phone to her, which he refused. He allegedly threatened to kill her again if she called the police.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/2d2c472c-8f4a-41da-bbaa-0184e9bb580a">Tysen Pina selected to lead K-State Salina's aviation program</a>

Feldman said Lasso Olivas then reached for the victim, and she slashed the knife on his hand, causing a small cut. This caused Lasso Olivas to drop the victim's phone, allowing her to call 9-1-1 for assistance. 

"Officers were able to take him into custody without incident," Feldman said.

Emergency responders transported the victim to Salina Regional Health Center to care for her injuries, but the cut on Lasso Olivas' hand did not require medical attention.

Officers then booked Lasso Olivas into the Saline County Jail. They requested charges for attempted voluntary manslaughter, three counts of aggravated domestic battery, aggravated kidnapping, criminal threat, domestic battery and criminal deprivation of property.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720357277324.jpeg" alt="Lasso Olivas, Christian Ivan" />
 <figcaption>Lasso Olivas, Christian Ivan</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostSalina Police Department (SPD) officers reported to a residence in the 1200 block of Cloud Circle Saturday evening, where they met a woman with blood stains on her shirt and bloody nose — she reported that a man attacked her and threatened to kill her shortly before they arrived.Just after 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 6, SPD officers reported to the residence on Cloud Circle after the 21-year-old woman called for help in the home."She indicated that while at the residence, she got into a disturbance with a Christian Lasso Olivas," said SPD Capt. James Feldman. "Christian became upset with the female and began yelling at her. He then got on top of her and began strangling her. He kept telling her that he was going to kill her and her family."Feldman said the victim was able to push the 20-year-old Lasso Olivas off of her, but he then dragged her into another room and pushed her onto the bed. There, he allegedly continued the verbal assault and began striking her in the face.The victim reported that on the bed, Lasso Olivas began strangling the victim again and threatened to kill her and her family. "She [the victim] attempted to get away from him — he then put a pillow on top of her head and pushed her into the bed," Feldman said. "As she was bleeding, she was able to ask if she could clean up the blood, he said no. She tried to get away from him but was able to keep her in the room. She then was able to get away into the kitchen where she grabbed a knife to protect herself."Lasso Olivas had possession of the victim's phone, so the victim demanded that he return the phone to her, which he refused. He allegedly threatened to kill her again if she called the police.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/2d2c472c-8f4a-41da-bbaa-0184e9bb580a">Tysen Pina selected to lead K-State Salina's aviation program</a>Feldman said Lasso Olivas then reached for the victim, and she slashed the knife on his hand, causing a small cut. This caused Lasso Olivas to drop the victim's phone, allowing her to call 9-1-1 for assistance. "Officers were able to take him into custody without incident," Feldman said.Emergency responders transported the victim to Salina Regional Health Center to care for her injuries, but the cut on Lasso Olivas' hand did not require medical attention.Officers then booked Lasso Olivas into the Saline County Jail. They requested charges for attempted voluntary manslaughter, three counts of aggravated domestic battery, aggravated kidnapping, criminal threat, domestic battery and criminal deprivation of property.

SPD arrest Salina man for attempted manslaughter

In the early 1900s, electricity swept across the country, bringing light bulbs, telecommunications and other luxuries to high-end homes and businesses — today, electricity is in almost every building, even public restrooms at local parks.

What was once considered a luxury became a household necessity by the mid-1900s, and by the end of the 20th century, many office workers began using the internet for daily job functions.

Most employers, schools and government organizations expect residents to have access to the internet, but a recent Saline County broadband survey found that many in the rural areas of the county don't have reliable access to internet services.

"Fiber really is the end goal for really, every house and business in America. I like to say fiber future-proofs the community," said Jack Maytum, a senior broadband analyst at Design Nine, Inc. "A lot of providers would have you think that that's wishful thinking, but think about electricity in the 1920s and 30s. Electricity was considered a luxury, now it's a necessity. Virtually every structure in the country has electricity, so why not fiber?"

Fiber optic cable allows high-capacity telecommunications to travel at high speeds, including multiple types of internet, cable television and phone services.

Unlike copper or other metal cables, glass threads carry pulses of light rather than electricity to transmit different types of information. Maytum informed the forum attendees that due to fiber optic's unique design, it has enough capacity to last for decades.

"One of the things we get asked a lot is, 'Well, isn't there going to be something better than fiber?' and we don't think there is going to be," said Andrew Cohill, the president of Design Nine. "The wonderful thing about fiber is you can expand the capacity of fiber by changing the equipment on each end of the fiber cable."

Throughout the last week of June, Saline County staff hosted multiple broadband forums targeted at different parts of the Saline County community, with one focusing on its residents on Tuesday, June 25, at the Salina Public Library Technology Center.

Design Nine presented a preliminary survey data analysis to forum attendees and answered questions about the broadband survey.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/cae2dd41-c13d-4b39-aa66-3c2e55b9c43c">Saline County — Call to action Broadband Community Assessment</a>

About a dozen Saline County residents and representatives visited the forum and shared their biggest challenges with internet access.

Saline County Public Information Officer Melissa McCoy began the community forum with some brief information about the Community Broadband Assessment before turning to Maytum and Cohill from Design Nine.

Cohill asked each attendee to share their names, their general location in Saline County and what internet provider they used in the home.

Most attendees either had poor access to reliable internet or were concerned about those in the community with limited access.

Tim Unruh, a local freelance journalist, and his wife use an internet hotspot service through their phone company for the two small businesses they operate from their home, but it regularly fails them when attempting normal business operations.

"My wife is a travel nurse and we both run teeny tiny small businesses out of our home and we live in this black hole, and we've tried. We've had companies come out and they said, 'Sure, we'll do that if you put up a $10,000 tower outside of your home," Unruh said. "For us, it's not a toy. I'm sure we may stream a show or something, but it's not about that. It's, we really need it. It's essential."

Unruh said that once he uses up the data provided with his phone plan each month, he has to work from coffee shops or other public locations with internet access.

Other residents shared similar stories, with one commenting on how an internet service said she had too many trees surrounding her house, preventing the signal from reaching her rural property.

A common question that many of the attendees asked was, "Why do some places have good access while others don't?" which Maytum said it usually has to do with making the most cash in more populated areas.

Recently, the federal government granted Kansas $451 million to spread throughout rural areas of the state to help improve high-speed broadband access to more Kansas residents.

"Unfortunately, because you happen to be in a rural area, a lot of the big providers are going to take that money and invest it in more fast-growing areas, large cities, not so much in Saline County," Maytum said. "Local providers tend to stay local, but the big companies will take that money oftentimes and go into places unless they are subsidized by somebody's federal government or state government."

Maytum and Cohill agreed that this was a driving factor for why many national internet providers have not moved into rural areas. The Design Nine team showed preliminary survey results that reflected this with the distribution of internet access across the county.

One of the benefits Maytum shared about providing reliable broadband access is that it kept young residents in a community, providing the area with new young workers for further economic development.

The Design Nine assessment found that broadband providers could generate more than $475 million in revenue over 30 years by investing in Saline County. 

With that information, alongside the data found by the community survey, Maytum and Cohill said it can help attract further broadband infrastructure development.

A map showed that many residents in the cities of Salina and Gypsum had access to the internet with fast download speeds, while other parts of the county showed limited or no access to internet providers.

Local Salina leaders, such as Saline County Administrator Phil Smith-Hanes, K-State Research and Extension Salina District Director Cade Rensink and Salina City Mayor Bill Longbine, attended the forum.

Saline County residents can take the survey by visiting the <a href="https://myemail-api.constantcontact.com/Help-us-improve-Broadband-access-in-Saline-County-.html?soid=1135102872917&amp;aid=GuFHJCGsX-Q">Saline County website</a>. El personal del Condado de Saline también incluyó <a href="https://projects.designnine.com/survey/saline-residential-espaniol">una versión en español</a> de la encuesta de Evaluación de Banda Ancha Comunitaria.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720212865613.png" alt="Design Nine President Andrew Cohill, left, and Senior Broadband Analyst, Jack Maytum, right, describe fiber optic cables to Saline County Broadband Assessment Community Forum on Tuesday, June 25, at the Salina Public Library in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Design Nine President Andrew Cohill, left, and Senior Broadband Analyst, Jack Maytum, right, describe fiber optic cables to Saline County Broadband Assessment Community Forum on Tuesday, June 25, at the Salina Public Library in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostIn the early 1900s, electricity swept across the country, bringing light bulbs, telecommunications and other luxuries to high-end homes and businesses — today, electricity is in almost every building, even public restrooms at local parks.What was once considered a luxury became a household necessity by the mid-1900s, and by the end of the 20th century, many office workers began using the internet for daily job functions.Most employers, schools and government organizations expect residents to have access to the internet, but a recent Saline County broadband survey found that many in the rural areas of the county don't have reliable access to internet services."Fiber really is the end goal for really, every house and business in America. I like to say fiber future-proofs the community," said Jack Maytum, a senior broadband analyst at Design Nine, Inc. "A lot of providers would have you think that that's wishful thinking, but think about electricity in the 1920s and 30s. Electricity was considered a luxury, now it's a necessity. Virtually every structure in the country has electricity, so why not fiber?"Fiber optic cable allows high-capacity telecommunications to travel at high speeds, including multiple types of internet, cable television and phone services.Unlike copper or other metal cables, glass threads carry pulses of light rather than electricity to transmit different types of information. Maytum informed the forum attendees that due to fiber optic's unique design, it has enough capacity to last for decades."One of the things we get asked a lot is, 'Well, isn't there going to be something better than fiber?' and we don't think there is going to be," said Andrew Cohill, the president of Design Nine. "The wonderful thing about fiber is you can expand the capacity of fiber by changing the equipment on each end of the fiber cable."Throughout the last week of June, Saline County staff hosted multiple broadband forums targeted at different parts of the Saline County community, with one focusing on its residents on Tuesday, June 25, at the Salina Public Library Technology Center.Design Nine presented a preliminary survey data analysis to forum attendees and answered questions about the broadband survey.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/cae2dd41-c13d-4b39-aa66-3c2e55b9c43c">Saline County — Call to action Broadband Community Assessment</a>About a dozen Saline County residents and representatives visited the forum and shared their biggest challenges with internet access.Saline County Public Information Officer Melissa McCoy began the community forum with some brief information about the Community Broadband Assessment before turning to Maytum and Cohill from Design Nine.Cohill asked each attendee to share their names, their general location in Saline County and what internet provider they used in the home.Most attendees either had poor access to reliable internet or were concerned about those in the community with limited access.Tim Unruh, a local freelance journalist, and his wife use an internet hotspot service through their phone company for the two small businesses they operate from their home, but it regularly fails them when attempting normal business operations."My wife is a travel nurse and we both run teeny tiny small businesses out of our home and we live in this black hole, and we've tried. We've had companies come out and they said, 'Sure, we'll do that if you put up a $10,000 tower outside of your home," Unruh said. "For us, it's not a toy. I'm sure we may stream a show or something, but it's not about that. It's, we really need it. It's essential."Unruh said that once he uses up the data provided with his phone plan each month, he has to work from coffee shops or other public locations with internet access.Other residents shared similar stories, with one commenting on how an internet service said she had too many trees surrounding her house, preventing the signal from reaching her rural property.<h2>Internet providers in rural areas</h2>A common question that many of the attendees asked was, "Why do some places have good access while others don't?" which Maytum said it usually has to do with making the most cash in more populated areas.Recently, the federal government granted Kansas $451 million to spread throughout rural areas of the state to help improve high-speed broadband access to more Kansas residents."Unfortunately, because you happen to be in a rural area, a lot of the big providers are going to take that money and invest it in more fast-growing areas, large cities, not so much in Saline County," Maytum said. "Local providers tend to stay local, but the big companies will take that money oftentimes and go into places unless they are subsidized by somebody's federal government or state government."Maytum and Cohill agreed that this was a driving factor for why many national internet providers have not moved into rural areas. The Design Nine team showed preliminary survey results that reflected this with the distribution of internet access across the county.One of the benefits Maytum shared about providing reliable broadband access is that it kept young residents in a community, providing the area with new young workers for further economic development.The Design Nine assessment found that broadband providers could generate more than $475 million in revenue over 30 years by investing in Saline County. With that information, alongside the data found by the community survey, Maytum and Cohill said it can help attract further broadband infrastructure development.A map showed that many residents in the cities of Salina and Gypsum had access to the internet with fast download speeds, while other parts of the county showed limited or no access to internet providers.Local Salina leaders, such as Saline County Administrator Phil Smith-Hanes, K-State Research and Extension Salina District Director Cade Rensink and Salina City Mayor Bill Longbine, attended the forum.Saline County residents can take the survey by visiting the <a href="https://myemail-api.constantcontact.com/Help-us-improve-Broadband-access-in-Saline-County-.html?soid=1135102872917&amp;aid=GuFHJCGsX-Q">Saline County website</a>. El personal del Condado de Saline también incluyó <a href="https://projects.designnine.com/survey/saline-residential-espaniol">una versión en español</a> de la encuesta de Evaluación de Banda Ancha Comunitaria.

Saline County residents share testimony for better broadband access at recent Broadband Community Forum

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

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

9:00 a.m.- 9:15 a.m. Cash Hollistah, James Curtis shares information about the Dadd Bud Day, taking place July 6 at 10 a.m. at Pacific Park in Salina.

9:15 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Lori Trow, President of the League of Women Voters (LWV) talks about the upcoming speed dating with the candidate event taking place on July 14.&nbsp;

9:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. Maggie Spicer Brown, Director at the Center for Theatre Arts talks about the opening weekend of Shrek The Musical Jr.

10 a.m.-10:30 a.m.  Master Sergeant David Medina Jr., with the Kansas National Guard’s 235th Regiment&nbsp;

10:30 a.m.- 11:00 a.m.  Leslie Manning, Tri-Rivers Fair Board Member

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591971280271.jpeg" alt="KINA New logo Blue Black" />
 <figcaption>KINA New logo Blue Black</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTJoin 910KINA's Saturday Morning Show hosts Dave Foor and Olivia Bergmeier this Saturday from 9 to 11 a.m. on 910AM 107.5 FM.Hear highlights about community events, public affairs, and all things happening in Salina. Their approach is friendly, informative, and entertaining. To listen to past 910KINA Saturday Morning Shows head on over to the KINA podcast homepage&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com/">here.</a>&nbsp;9:00 a.m.- 9:15 a.m. Cash Hollistah, James Curtis shares information about the Dadd Bud Day, taking place July 6 at 10 a.m. at Pacific Park in Salina.9:15 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Lori Trow, President of the League of Women Voters (LWV) talks about the upcoming speed dating with the candidate event taking place on July 14.&nbsp;9:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. Maggie Spicer Brown, Director at the Center for Theatre Arts talks about the opening weekend of Shrek The Musical Jr.10 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Master Sergeant David Medina Jr., with the Kansas National Guard’s 235th Regiment&nbsp;10:30 a.m.- 11:00 a.m. Leslie Manning, Tri-Rivers Fair Board Member

910 KINA Saturday Morning Show lineup

With the mild 80-degree temperatures, hundreds of Salina residents and visitors attended the Play Day in the Park to celebrate the Fourth of July.

The City of Salina Parks and Recreation organized the event at Oakdale Park, serving hotdogs and chips while providing entertainment such as a bubble station, foam pit and sidewalk chalk.

Tayler Hernandez and her son, Blake Hernandez, 6, attended the free event last year and returned this year to enjoy the free activities and attractions again.

"It's really nice having something we can come to and just play with other kids," Tayler Hernandez said. "We've already seen like four kids from his class. It's nice seeing everybody and then getting to do fun little things for a few hours."

Dan Holloway and his daughter, Lillian Holloway, 7, have attended Play Day in the Park a few times and enjoyed the activities, but this year, Dan Holloway said Lillian enjoyed the foam pit the most.

The Holloways also brought their small dog, Ruby, to the event.

"Her favorite part has been the hot dogs," Dan Holloway said.

The City of Salina hosted the event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 4, in celebration of the Fourth of July.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720118971639.jpeg" alt="Play Day in the Park visitors run underneath a multicolored parachute while playing games on July 4, during the Play Day in the Park at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Play Day in the Park visitors run underneath a multicolored parachute while playing games on July 4, during the Play Day in the Park at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostWith the mild 80-degree temperatures, hundreds of Salina residents and visitors attended the Play Day in the Park to celebrate the Fourth of July.The City of Salina Parks and Recreation organized the event at Oakdale Park, serving hotdogs and chips while providing entertainment such as a bubble station, foam pit and sidewalk chalk.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720119317575.jpeg" alt="Attendees grab bags of chips from a display provided by the City of Salina on July 4 during the Play Day in the Park at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Attendees grab bags of chips from a display provided by the City of Salina on July 4 during the Play Day in the Park at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Tayler Hernandez and her son, Blake Hernandez, 6, attended the free event last year and returned this year to enjoy the free activities and attractions again.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720118895027.jpeg" alt="Tayler Hernandez, right, helps her son, Blake Hernandez, 6, left, make a large bubble on July 4, during the Play Day in the Park at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Tayler Hernandez, right, helps her son, Blake Hernandez, 6, left, make a large bubble on July 4, during the Play Day in the Park at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"It's really nice having something we can come to and just play with other kids," Tayler Hernandez said. "We've already seen like four kids from his class. It's nice seeing everybody and then getting to do fun little things for a few hours."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720119047720.jpeg" alt="Lillian Holloway, 7, from Salina, plays in the foam it on July 4, during the Play Day in the Park at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Lillian Holloway, 7, from Salina, plays in the foam it on July 4, during the Play Day in the Park at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Dan Holloway and his daughter, Lillian Holloway, 7, have attended Play Day in the Park a few times and enjoyed the activities, but this year, Dan Holloway said Lillian enjoyed the foam pit the most.The Holloways also brought their small dog, Ruby, to the event."Her favorite part has been the hot dogs," Dan Holloway said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720119215090.jpeg" alt="Tyler Brown, a City of Salina volunteer, moves hotdogs off the grill to provide to attendees on July 4, during the Play Day in the Park at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Tyler Brown, a City of Salina volunteer, moves hotdogs off the grill to provide to attendees on July 4, during the Play Day in the Park at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>The City of Salina hosted the event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 4, in celebration of the Fourth of July.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720119171157.jpeg" alt="Cierra Purdham, right, an employee from Color Me Crazy, dries an airbrushed dinosaur on Weston Sellers' arm, right, 2, from Kansas City, on July 4, during the Play Day in the Park at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Cierra Purdham, right, an employee from Color Me Crazy, dries an airbrushed dinosaur on Weston Sellers' arm, right, 2, from Kansas City, on July 4, during the Play Day in the Park at Oakdale Park in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>

📸 Play Day in the Park — A local Fourth of July tradition

On behalf of Salina Post Happy Fourth of July!

In a Fourth of July celebration on Wednesday, Colonel Patrik Goss of the Army National Guard and his crew landed their Blackhawk helicopter on the 9th hole of the GreatLIFE Salina Golf Course.

Even as a light drizzle started to fall, many spectators dressed in red white and blue waved American flags and looked upwards, waiting to see the Blackhawk helicopter come into view.

In an impressive low-altitude maneuver, Goss landed precisely at the 9th hole to the sounds of cheers and applause.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Colonel Goss and his crew stayed for several hours, allowing everyone attending to get up close and personally view the helicopter. Families, children, and golf enthusiasts took turns exploring the aircraft, taking photos, and speaking with the crew.

"I was golfing one day at a Veterans Affairs Golf Tournament, and they asked us about the Fourth of July event; could we bring the helicopter up, because obviously today is the day to do it —we're celebrating America's birthday," said Colonel Goss. " I did some checking, did some paperwork, got the right approvals and permissions to land and here we are."

The event was organized as part of the Independence Day festivities and an approximately 45-minute firework display at GreatLIFE Salina, 1800 South Marymount Road.

Colonel Goss expressed his connection and love of the Salina community. 

"We live in small-town America, which I absolutely love. This has been my home for 30 years and I know almost everybody standing around me out here. It's amazing," Goss said. 

Goss has served for 35 years with 10 years in the Marine Corps and 25 years in the Army Guard. He also served as a Salina Police Officer for a decade.

"I love this town. It's a great town, and when I got the opportunity to work full time and fly helicopters. I had to take it, but amazingly enough, I did it right here in Salina, Kansas," Goss said. 

He also spoke about the importance of engaging with the younger generation.

"When I was a little kid, you got to see them [helicopters], never climb in touch them. When we've been to State Fair and other places, it takes us a bit longer to get it started after since we got to put all the buttons and switches back where they go," Goss said jokingly. "We let them climb in and really feel it. Some of these young men and women out there who are maybe eight or nine years old may take my job someday."

Kelley Friend, the GreatLIFE Golf Course Superintendent, explained how the idea came about.

 "A couple of months ago, my better half Marjorie [GreatLIFE Salina General Manager] said, 'Oh, it'd be really cool if we could get Colonel Goss to bring his work vehicle,'" Friend said. "So all we did was ask, and it was from there we had no idea. It was like asking for a million dollars. You don't think you're going to get it."

Happy Fourth of July from the Salina Post Newsroom! Today, as we celebrate our nation's independence, let's cherish the values of freedom, unity, and community. Wishing everyone a joyful and safe holiday filled with laughter, good company, and great food.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uGT2qgnWxkw?si=TCr-sWHOCnpUE07x" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>By SALINA POSTOn behalf of Salina Post Happy Fourth of July!In a Fourth of July celebration on Wednesday, Colonel Patrik Goss of the Army National Guard and his crew landed their Blackhawk helicopter on the 9th hole of the GreatLIFE Salina Golf Course.Even as a light drizzle started to fall, many spectators dressed in red white and blue waved American flags and looked upwards, waiting to see the Blackhawk helicopter come into view.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720061217276.jpeg" alt="A Blackhawk Helicopter flown by U.S. Army National Guard Col. Patrik Goss and his crew fly over the club house during the Great Life Golf Course Fourth of July celebration on Wednesday, July 3, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>A Blackhawk Helicopter flown by U.S. Army National Guard Col. Patrik Goss and his crew fly over the club house during the Great Life Golf Course Fourth of July celebration on Wednesday, July 3, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>In an impressive low-altitude maneuver, Goss landed precisely at the 9th hole to the sounds of cheers and applause.&nbsp;&nbsp;Colonel Goss and his crew stayed for several hours, allowing everyone attending to get up close and personally view the helicopter. Families, children, and golf enthusiasts took turns exploring the aircraft, taking photos, and speaking with the crew."I was golfing one day at a Veterans Affairs Golf Tournament, and they asked us about the Fourth of July event; could we bring the helicopter up, because obviously today is the day to do it —we're celebrating America's birthday," said Colonel Goss. " I did some checking, did some paperwork, got the right approvals and permissions to land and here we are."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720061396647.jpeg" alt="Visitors explore and take photos inside a U.S. Army National Guard Blackhawk Helicopter in celebration of the Fourth of July on Wednesday, July 3, at Great Life Golf Course in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Visitors explore and take photos inside a U.S. Army National Guard Blackhawk Helicopter in celebration of the Fourth of July on Wednesday, July 3, at Great Life Golf Course in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>The event was organized as part of the Independence Day festivities and an approximately 45-minute firework display at GreatLIFE Salina, 1800 South Marymount Road.Colonel Goss expressed his connection and love of the Salina community. "We live in small-town America, which I absolutely love. This has been my home for 30 years and I know almost everybody standing around me out here. It's amazing," Goss said. Goss has served for 35 years with 10 years in the Marine Corps and 25 years in the Army Guard. He also served as a Salina Police Officer for a decade."I love this town. It's a great town, and when I got the opportunity to work full time and fly helicopters. I had to take it, but amazingly enough, I did it right here in Salina, Kansas," Goss said. He also spoke about the importance of engaging with the younger generation."When I was a little kid, you got to see them [helicopters], never climb in touch them. When we've been to State Fair and other places, it takes us a bit longer to get it started after since we got to put all the buttons and switches back where they go," Goss said jokingly. "We let them climb in and really feel it. Some of these young men and women out there who are maybe eight or nine years old may take my job someday."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720059895452.jpeg" alt="Visitors gather around a Blackhawk helicopter piloted to the Great Life Golf Course by U.S. Army National Guard Col. Patrik Goss and his crew on Wednesday, July 3, during the Great Life Golf Course Fourth of July celebration in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Visitors gather around a Blackhawk helicopter piloted to the Great Life Golf Course by U.S. Army National Guard Col. Patrik Goss and his crew on Wednesday, July 3, during the Great Life Golf Course Fourth of July celebration in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Kelley Friend, the GreatLIFE Golf Course Superintendent, explained how the idea came about. "A couple of months ago, my better half Marjorie [GreatLIFE Salina General Manager] said, 'Oh, it'd be really cool if we could get Colonel Goss to bring his work vehicle,'" Friend said. "So all we did was ask, and it was from there we had no idea. It was like asking for a million dollars. You don't think you're going to get it."Happy Fourth of July from the Salina Post Newsroom! Today, as we celebrate our nation's independence, let's cherish the values of freedom, unity, and community. Wishing everyone a joyful and safe holiday filled with laughter, good company, and great food.

🎥Army National Guard Col. Patrik Goss and crew make patriotic landing at GreatLIFE Salina

While sitting in the basement of his residence Tuesday afternoon with a woman, a 32-year-old Salina man heard some glass break upstairs. Soon after, a man entered his basement, allegedly beat him and left, forcefully taking the 22-year-old woman with him.

Salina Police Department (SPD) Capt. James Feldman said at about 4 p.m. Tuesday, July 2, multiple witnesses began reporting to SPD that a man was causing a disturbance at a residence in the 100 block of North College Avenue.

"Officers were advised in route that we had multiple calls and that there was a female being forced into a vehicle and there was a male at the residence bleeding from his head," Feldman said.

Once officers arrived at the scene, Feldman said they began conversations with the 32-year-old victim, who told them what allegedly happened in his basement just a few minutes before.

The victim reported to officers that a man, later identified as 35-year-old Mark A. Martin, entered his basement, grabbed the victim by the throat and pushed him against a wall, causing the victim to fall into furniture and to the ground.

"He [Martin] was upset," Feldman said. "While on the ground, he [the victim] was punched multiple times in the face. The subject reported that Mr. Martin grabbed the female, dragged her upstairs, forced her into a vehicle and drove away."

Feldman said that officers later found that Martin and the 22-year-old victim were related to each other but did not give further details.

Officers then began searching the area for Martin or his vehicle, but reports from Christ Cathedral sent officers to the historic church on Eighth Street. 

"We received a call that the vehicle was possibly at Christ Cathedral," Feldman said. "Officers responded, didn't see the vehicle, but made contact with the 22-year-old female who was at the church."

The 22-year-old woman told officers that Martin had dropped her off at the church to meet with another relative, where she then took refuge away from Martin and church staff called SPD.

Another officer in the 800 block of West South Street located Martin's car and found Martin at a residence about 30 minutes after the initial call at the residence on College Avenue.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/0d45ed1d-c4da-4c34-b846-fc3c1d27c8a9">🎙King in the Community — Mike Schrage discusses Friends of the Salina Animal Shelter, the Cozy Inn civil case and more</a>

Officers then arrested Martin without incident and, with further investigation, found that Martin also had his 2-year-old child with him during the entire incident.

Feldman said officers booked him into the Saline County Jail with requested charges for aggravated battery, aggravated burglary, kidnapping, domestic battery, driving while suspended and endangering a child.

The burglary charge stems from Martin entering an occupied home with the intent to cause violence, constituting a burglary charge under the crime's definition. Martin did not steal anything from the residence.

The 32-year-old male victim had multiple injuries, including a swollen and bleeding right eye, a laceration to the backside of the head and a broken cheekbone. The 22-year-old woman had no injuries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574355645622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostWhile sitting in the basement of his residence Tuesday afternoon with a woman, a 32-year-old Salina man heard some glass break upstairs. Soon after, a man entered his basement, allegedly beat him and left, forcefully taking the 22-year-old woman with him.Salina Police Department (SPD) Capt. James Feldman said at about 4 p.m. Tuesday, July 2, multiple witnesses began reporting to SPD that a man was causing a disturbance at a residence in the 100 block of North College Avenue."Officers were advised in route that we had multiple calls and that there was a female being forced into a vehicle and there was a male at the residence bleeding from his head," Feldman said.Once officers arrived at the scene, Feldman said they began conversations with the 32-year-old victim, who told them what allegedly happened in his basement just a few minutes before.The victim reported to officers that a man, later identified as 35-year-old Mark A. Martin, entered his basement, grabbed the victim by the throat and pushed him against a wall, causing the victim to fall into furniture and to the ground.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720009069671.png" alt="Martin, Mark Andrew" />
 <figcaption>Martin, Mark Andrew</figcaption>
 </figure>"He [Martin] was upset," Feldman said. "While on the ground, he [the victim] was punched multiple times in the face. The subject reported that Mr. Martin grabbed the female, dragged her upstairs, forced her into a vehicle and drove away."Feldman said that officers later found that Martin and the 22-year-old victim were related to each other but did not give further details.Officers then began searching the area for Martin or his vehicle, but reports from Christ Cathedral sent officers to the historic church on Eighth Street. "We received a call that the vehicle was possibly at Christ Cathedral," Feldman said. "Officers responded, didn't see the vehicle, but made contact with the 22-year-old female who was at the church."The 22-year-old woman told officers that Martin had dropped her off at the church to meet with another relative, where she then took refuge away from Martin and church staff called SPD.Another officer in the 800 block of West South Street located Martin's car and found Martin at a residence about 30 minutes after the initial call at the residence on College Avenue.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/0d45ed1d-c4da-4c34-b846-fc3c1d27c8a9">🎙King in the Community — Mike Schrage discusses Friends of the Salina Animal Shelter, the Cozy Inn civil case and more</a>Officers then arrested Martin without incident and, with further investigation, found that Martin also had his 2-year-old child with him during the entire incident.Feldman said officers booked him into the Saline County Jail with requested charges for aggravated battery, aggravated burglary, kidnapping, domestic battery, driving while suspended and endangering a child.The burglary charge stems from Martin entering an occupied home with the intent to cause violence, constituting a burglary charge under the crime's definition. Martin did not steal anything from the residence.The 32-year-old male victim had multiple injuries, including a swollen and bleeding right eye, a laceration to the backside of the head and a broken cheekbone. The 22-year-old woman had no injuries.

Salina man arrested after battering victim, kidnapping a woman and endangering child

Earlier today, Kansas Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland, alongside leaders from across the state, unveiled the <a href="https://lovekansas.com/">"Love, Kansas"</a> talent attraction campaign. The initiative aims to boost Kansas' population by inviting past residents to choose the Sunflower State as their future home.

Wyatt Thompson, voice of the K-State Wildcats, hyped up the crowd of Kansans and served as emcee for the event held on Monday, July 1.&nbsp;

"Today we are launching a new campaign that is going to bring these people home to Kansas by helping them rediscover why this state is the best place to call home," Thompson said.&nbsp;

During the campaign launch at the Flint Hills Discovery Center in Manhattan, Lt. Gov. Toland shared his personal journey about coming back to Kansas after he was inspired by a phone call from a family friend.

"I am a 1995 graduate of Iola High School in Allen County. I have two degrees from KU, I married a girl at KU who is from Pittsburg and as soon as we finished graduate school, we moved out of the state," Toland said. "We went to the East Coast and we were there for the better part of a decade."

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/e1179189-0804-48cd-9688-6ee8ab5892c7">Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad participating in Kansas Sunflower Summer program</a>

Toland said after the birth of their daughter Caroline, he and his wife decided to come back home to Kansas.

"Caroline was learning to walk in our 16-foot wide row house, when one night, I got a phone call from somebody back in Iola, a friend who said, 'I'm sure you've never considered this. It's kind of a crazy idea. You'd have to move.' and&nbsp; he said, 'Well, I wonder if you would ever consider coming back to Kansas, and specifically to Iola.'"

Toland, a seventh-generation Kansan, said he felt that Kansas has always been in his heart but wasn't always in his mind as a place that had opportunity.&nbsp;

"It wasn't until that phone call that it clicked and I realized that we should be back home. We should be building our life for our daughter back in Kansas," Toland said. "And that's just what we did. It's been 16 years, and that was the best decision we've ever made."

Click the play button above to learn more about the Love Kansas initiative.

Love Kansas' goal is to highlight Kansas as an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family, with a special emphasis on "boomerangs" - individuals with previous ties to the state.

Love Kansas focuses on the state's abundant job opportunities, high quality of life, excellent education system and affordable communities. The campaign is locally driven but strategically targets key markets across the U.S., with a strong focus on digital and social media platforms. 

"It's simple: we need more humans in Kansas to keep up with the phenomenal economic growth our state is experiencing," Lt. Gov. Toland said. "The best way to do that is to first approach Kansans who left the state for economic opportunities elsewhere and invite them to build a life in a place they know and have connections to, whether in their hometown or elsewhere in the state. With the Love, Kansas campaign, we aren't just extending an invitation to those who once called Kansas home to come back--we re also inviting families from around the country to build their lives in the Sunflower State."

During the launch event, Toland announced that the first 50 communities to partner with Love Kansas will be eligible for a $5,000 grant to assist in their efforts to attract new residents to their community. Nineteen pilot communities and seven universities already joined the initiative and are planning events that align with the campaign's theme.

LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/67ca4f22-e961-4739-a30d-6e6ecf5bbaa2">🎙King in the Community — Kansas Lt. Gov./Secretary of Commerce, David Toland</a>

Salina Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Renee Duxler, Salina Downtown Inc. Executive Director Leslie Bishop, and Salina Community Economic Developement Coorporation Executive Director Mitch Robinson all attended the event. 

Duxler said the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce is working to create a local, grassroots collaborative in Saline County to bring this initiative to fruition.&nbsp;

"We're working on creating a collaborative among all of our community and organizations that includes Salina Downtown, Salina Community Economic Developement Organization, the City of Salina, Saline County," Duxler said. "We're all selling the same asset. We're going to have this collaborative marketing, that we will all be able to utilize."

Duxler said the $5,000 grant awarded to Salina from the Love Kansas program will be used to create marketing and outreach campaigns to target Salina's own boomerangs.

"It's easier, as the lieutenant governor said, than casting this wide net on everybody in the United States," Duxler said. "The people that we know are familiar with us [Kansas] and might want to come back to raise a family or be with their family."

Influencer and journalist engagement and targeted in-person events both within and outside of Kansas play a crucial role in reaching potential boomerangs.

Bishop, who is a boomerang resident herself, said she was encouraged and motivated by the enthusiasm and energy at the kick off event.

"It's incredible. I feel like Kansas is finally getting the recognition it deserves to be a great state to live in, work, play, raise your family," Bishop said. "I'm a boomerang resident, and I left and was never going to come back and here I am today. All of us who live here in Kansas, wherever you are, know how wonderful this state really is. We are not a flyover state anymore."

After graduating from Salina Central High School in 1982, Bishop moved to Park City, Utah, and was in the hotel business there for six years and lived in a ski resort town.

"Then I came back because my mom opened up a local business and my dad, had a local real estate office, "Bishop said. "It was great to be back and we raised our son here. There's a lot to do in Salina. We have a great community, there's work to be done. But together, we can do it."

 A primary goal for the campaign is for communities across the state to do direct outreach to past residents they have a personal connection with, inviting them to return home.

"The collaboration already on display between so many partners underscores the enthusiasm for this campaign," Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. "There are so many amazing things happening in Kansas right now; Love, Kansas gives us the chance to let people throughout the country know about them."

In his closing remarks at the announcement, Toland asked all Kansans to call up a friend or family member and make the pitch for them to return to the state they once called home.&nbsp;

"The most important thing for you to say might just be, 'Hey, there's good things happening in town and we miss you,'" Toland said. "We want you to come home. We want you to love Kansas. That's what's most important. Make that call. Send that text. Get out there and together we're gonna change Kansas."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719864760130.jpeg" alt="Volunteers dump balloons and empty letters on attendees of the kickoff event for the Love Kansas campaign that aims to bring Kansans back to the state who have moved away, on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Following the announcement, event attendees wrote letters to previous residents of Kansas, asking them to move back to the state.&nbsp;Photo by Olivia Bergmeier " />
 <figcaption>Volunteers dump balloons and empty letters on attendees of the kickoff event for the Love Kansas campaign that aims to bring Kansans back to the state who have moved away, on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Following the announcement, event attendees wrote letters to previous residents of Kansas, asking them to move back to the state.&nbsp;Photo by Olivia Bergmeier </figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTEarlier today, Kansas Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland, alongside leaders from across the state, unveiled the <a href="https://lovekansas.com/">"Love, Kansas"</a> talent attraction campaign. The initiative aims to boost Kansas' population by inviting past residents to choose the Sunflower State as their future home.Wyatt Thompson, voice of the K-State Wildcats, hyped up the crowd of Kansans and served as emcee for the event held on Monday, July 1.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719864954195.jpeg" alt="Wyatt Thompson, K-State Sports Voice of the Wildcats introduces the kick off event for the new Love Kansas campaign on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Wyatt Thompson, K-State Sports Voice of the Wildcats introduces the kick off event for the new Love Kansas campaign on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"Today we are launching a new campaign that is going to bring these people home to Kansas by helping them rediscover why this state is the best place to call home," Thompson said.&nbsp;During the campaign launch at the Flint Hills Discovery Center in Manhattan, Lt. Gov. Toland shared his personal journey about coming back to Kansas after he was inspired by a phone call from a family friend."I am a 1995 graduate of Iola High School in Allen County. I have two degrees from KU, I married a girl at KU who is from Pittsburg and as soon as we finished graduate school, we moved out of the state," Toland said. "We went to the East Coast and we were there for the better part of a decade."READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/e1179189-0804-48cd-9688-6ee8ab5892c7">Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad participating in Kansas Sunflower Summer program</a>Toland said after the birth of their daughter Caroline, he and his wife decided to come back home to Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719864857581.jpeg" alt="Kansas Lieutenant Governor/Secretary of Commerce&nbsp;David Toland addresses the room of attendees to kick off the new Love Kansas campaign on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Lieutenant Governor/Secretary of Commerce&nbsp;David Toland addresses the room of attendees to kick off the new Love Kansas campaign on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"Caroline was learning to walk in our 16-foot wide row house, when one night, I got a phone call from somebody back in Iola, a friend who said, 'I'm sure you've never considered this. It's kind of a crazy idea. You'd have to move.' and&nbsp; he said, 'Well, I wonder if you would ever consider coming back to Kansas, and specifically to Iola.'"Toland, a seventh-generation Kansan, said he felt that Kansas has always been in his heart but wasn't always in his mind as a place that had opportunity.&nbsp;"It wasn't until that phone call that it clicked and I realized that we should be back home. We should be building our life for our daughter back in Kansas," Toland said. "And that's just what we did. It's been 16 years, and that was the best decision we've ever made."<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mPPk35Ld8hQ?si=720o5Gjt_8FiChgE" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Click the play button above to learn more about the Love Kansas initiative.Love Kansas' goal is to highlight Kansas as an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family, with a special emphasis on "boomerangs" - individuals with previous ties to the state.Love Kansas focuses on the state's abundant job opportunities, high quality of life, excellent education system and affordable communities. The campaign is locally driven but strategically targets key markets across the U.S., with a strong focus on digital and social media platforms. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719862504244.png" alt="Kansas by the numbers. Image Courtesy Kansas Department of Commerce" />
 <figcaption>Kansas by the numbers. Image Courtesy Kansas Department of Commerce</figcaption>
 </figure>"It's simple: we need more humans in Kansas to keep up with the phenomenal economic growth our state is experiencing," Lt. Gov. Toland said. "The best way to do that is to first approach Kansans who left the state for economic opportunities elsewhere and invite them to build a life in a place they know and have connections to, whether in their hometown or elsewhere in the state. With the Love, Kansas campaign, we aren't just extending an invitation to those who once called Kansas home to come back--we re also inviting families from around the country to build their lives in the Sunflower State."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719865112662.jpeg" alt="Representatives from rural pilot communities for the Love Kansas campaign cheer as Wyatt Thomspon, Voice of the K-State Wildcats, announce the name of their counties during the kickoff event for Love Kansas on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Representatives from rural pilot communities for the Love Kansas campaign cheer as Wyatt Thomspon, Voice of the K-State Wildcats, announce the name of their counties during the kickoff event for Love Kansas on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719876926456.jpeg" alt="Ellsworth Jr./Sr. High School cheer squad. Front Row from left to right: Felis DeLaCruz, Breckyn Rush, Nell Goss, Brooklyn Legette, Abigail Taylor, Danica Hicks, Stacie Schmidt, Hadleigh Hicks, Leah Howard. Photo Courtesy Brittany Kasper" />
 <figcaption>Ellsworth Jr./Sr. High School cheer squad. Front Row from left to right: Felis DeLaCruz, Breckyn Rush, Nell Goss, Brooklyn Legette, Abigail Taylor, Danica Hicks, Stacie Schmidt, Hadleigh Hicks, Leah Howard. Photo Courtesy Brittany Kasper</figcaption>
 </figure>During the launch event, Toland announced that the first 50 communities to partner with Love Kansas will be eligible for a $5,000 grant to assist in their efforts to attract new residents to their community. Nineteen pilot communities and seven universities already joined the initiative and are planning events that align with the campaign's theme. LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/67ca4f22-e961-4739-a30d-6e6ecf5bbaa2">🎙King in the Community — Kansas Lt. Gov./Secretary of Commerce, David Toland</a>Salina Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Renee Duxler, Salina Downtown Inc. Executive Director Leslie Bishop, and Salina Community Economic Developement Coorporation Executive Director Mitch Robinson all attended the event. Duxler said the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce is working to create a local, grassroots collaborative in Saline County to bring this initiative to fruition.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719870018091.jpeg" alt="Salina Area Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Renee Duxler (left) and Salina Downtown Inc., Executive Director Leslie Bishop (center) chat with Kansas Lt. Gov. David Toland during the kickoff event for the Love Kansas Campaign at the Flint Hills Discover Center on Monday, July 1, in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina Area Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Renee Duxler (left) and Salina Downtown Inc., Executive Director Leslie Bishop (center) chat with Kansas Lt. Gov. David Toland during the kickoff event for the Love Kansas Campaign at the Flint Hills Discover Center on Monday, July 1, in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"We're working on creating a collaborative among all of our community and organizations that includes Salina Downtown, Salina Community Economic Developement Organization, the City of Salina, Saline County," Duxler said. "We're all selling the same asset. We're going to have this collaborative marketing, that we will all be able to utilize."Duxler said the $5,000 grant awarded to Salina from the Love Kansas program will be used to create marketing and outreach campaigns to target Salina's own boomerangs."It's easier, as the lieutenant governor said, than casting this wide net on everybody in the United States," Duxler said. "The people that we know are familiar with us [Kansas] and might want to come back to raise a family or be with their family."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719865031911.jpeg" alt="Mascots from the pilot schools for Love Kansas dance outside the Flint Hills Discover Center with the Topeka High School Drumline on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Mascots from the pilot schools for Love Kansas dance outside the Flint Hills Discover Center with the Topeka High School Drumline on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Influencer and journalist engagement and targeted in-person events both within and outside of Kansas play a crucial role in reaching potential boomerangs.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_aXdU0YTfDU?si=rZVpvB-X25wmYbWK" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Bishop, who is a boomerang resident herself, said she was encouraged and motivated by the enthusiasm and energy at the kick off event."It's incredible. I feel like Kansas is finally getting the recognition it deserves to be a great state to live in, work, play, raise your family," Bishop said. "I'm a boomerang resident, and I left and was never going to come back and here I am today. All of us who live here in Kansas, wherever you are, know how wonderful this state really is. We are not a flyover state anymore."After graduating from Salina Central High School in 1982, Bishop moved to Park City, Utah, and was in the hotel business there for six years and lived in a ski resort town."Then I came back because my mom opened up a local business and my dad, had a local real estate office, "Bishop said. "It was great to be back and we raised our son here. There's a lot to do in Salina. We have a great community, there's work to be done. But together, we can do it."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719865154626.jpeg" alt="Kansas Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland inserts the first letter to a boomerang resident to kick off the Love Kansas campaign on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Attendees were invited to send a letter, text or call a family member or friend and ask them to consider moving back to Kansas.&nbsp;Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland inserts the first letter to a boomerang resident to kick off the Love Kansas campaign on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Attendees were invited to send a letter, text or call a family member or friend and ask them to consider moving back to Kansas.&nbsp;Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure> A primary goal for the campaign is for communities across the state to do direct outreach to past residents they have a personal connection with, inviting them to return home."The collaboration already on display between so many partners underscores the enthusiasm for this campaign," Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. "There are so many amazing things happening in Kansas right now; Love, Kansas gives us the chance to let people throughout the country know about them."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719866665325.jpeg" alt="Kansas State University mascot Willie the Wildcat encourages the crowd to yell, "K-S-U!" during the kickoff event for the Love Kansas campaign on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State University mascot Willie the Wildcat encourages the crowd to yell, "K-S-U!" during the kickoff event for the Love Kansas campaign on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>In his closing remarks at the announcement, Toland asked all Kansans to call up a friend or family member and make the pitch for them to return to the state they once called home.&nbsp;"The most important thing for you to say might just be, 'Hey, there's good things happening in town and we miss you,'" Toland said. "We want you to come home. We want you to love Kansas. That's what's most important. Make that call. Send that text. Get out there and together we're gonna change Kansas."

Love Kansas campaign aims to draw past residents back to the Sunflower State

The Fourth of July is next week and patriotic fireworks will be available for purchase beginning Thursday, June 27 and concluding on July 5.

For any fireworks violations, please call 1-785-826-7210. Remember, in emergencies requiring immediate response from the Police, Fire, or EMS, dial 911.

Please see the corrected times and dates Courtesy of Saline County Emergency Management.&nbsp;

Assaria, New Cambria follow the County regulations:

Dates of Sale – June 27 through July 5 from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Dates of Discharge – June 27 through July 5 from 8 a.m. to midnight

Dates of Sale – June 27 through July 3 and 4 from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Dates of Discharge –&nbsp;only&nbsp;on July 3 &amp; 4 from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.

July 1 – Fireworks may be discharged with a special permit only. There are only two special permits for the 6th at the city park

City of Gypsum Dates of Discharge: July 1 - July 5, 8 a.m. to midnight.

Brookville Dates of Sale-June 27 - July 5. Hours from June 27 to July 3 will be 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

 On June 30, hours will be 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. 

On July 4 and July 5 hours will be 10 a.m. to midnight.&nbsp;

Regulations (same for both City and County):

⦁ When using approve consumer fireworks, a person&nbsp;shall not ignite or discharge fireworks:

⦁ On public property (no parks, roadways, road shoulders, etc.

⦁ On private property without the express written consent of the property owner, including the property owner’s name, address, telephone number and signature

⦁ Under, or from a car or vehicle, whether moving or standing still, or on a public roadway or the right-of-way adjoining a public roadway

⦁ Within 100 feet&nbsp;of any hospital, sanitarium, infirmary, nursing home, or assisted living facility

⦁ Within 300 feet of any consumer fireworks facility

⦁For throwing, cast, or propelling the fireworks they can't be aimed in the direction of or into the path of any person or group of persons, whether on foot, on a bicycle, on a motorcycle, or in a vehicle;

⦁ Sky Lanterns are banned in all of Saline County

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719508851587.jpeg" alt="Fireworks celebration. File photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Fireworks celebration. File photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe Fourth of July is next week and patriotic fireworks will be available for purchase beginning Thursday, June 27 and concluding on July 5.For any fireworks violations, please call 1-785-826-7210. Remember, in emergencies requiring immediate response from the Police, Fire, or EMS, dial 911.Please see the corrected times and dates Courtesy of Saline County Emergency Management.&nbsp;Assaria, New Cambria follow the County regulations:Dates of Sale – June 27 through July 5 from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.Dates of Discharge – June 27 through July 5 from 8 a.m. to midnightCity of Salina:Dates of Sale – June 27 through July 3 and 4 from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.Dates of Discharge –&nbsp;only&nbsp;on July 3 &amp; 4 from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.**City of Smolan**:July 1 – Fireworks may be discharged with a special permit only. There are only two special permits for the 6th at the city parkCity of Gypsum Dates of Discharge: July 1 - July 5, 8 a.m. to midnight.Brookville Dates of Sale-June 27 - July 5. Hours from June 27 to July 3 will be 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. On June 30, hours will be 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. On July 4 and July 5 hours will be 10 a.m. to midnight.&nbsp;Regulations (same for both City and County):⦁ When using approve consumer fireworks, a person&nbsp;shall not ignite or discharge fireworks:⦁ On public property (no parks, roadways, road shoulders, etc.⦁ On private property without the express written consent of the property owner, including the property owner’s name, address, telephone number and signature⦁ Under, or from a car or vehicle, whether moving or standing still, or on a public roadway or the right-of-way adjoining a public roadway⦁ Within 100 feet&nbsp;of any hospital, sanitarium, infirmary, nursing home, or assisted living facility⦁ Within 300 feet of any consumer fireworks facility⦁For throwing, cast, or propelling the fireworks they can't be aimed in the direction of or into the path of any person or group of persons, whether on foot, on a bicycle, on a motorcycle, or in a vehicle;⦁ Sky Lanterns are banned in all of Saline County

CORRECTION: Fourth of July fireworks regulations

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter

On Saturday, June 29, a Saline County Sheriff's Office deputy witnessed a 2005 Ford vehicle fail to stop at a stop sign. When the deputy conducted a traffic stop and approached the car, the driver took off, leading to a quick pursuit and crash into a curb.

Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander said the deputy first saw the vehicle at 1:20 a.m. Saturday morning at the intersection of West Crawford and Custer streets. Once the driver sped away, the deputy called dispatch to request help.

"The deputy jumped back in his vehicle, notified dispatch and surrounding units of the chase and began to pursue the vehicle," Melander said. 

The driver did not get far, only about a block away, where the car crashed into a curb and some vegetation near the road at 10 Tenlawns Place. Melander said the deputy reported that once the vehicle was no longer operational, the driver ran away from the car.

Deputies said the passenger did not run away, but through investigations, they found that 28-year-old Monica May, from Salina, allegedly had marijuana.

Through further investigations, Melander said that deputies found 25-year-old Salina resident Trenton Ponting as the vehicle's driver.

Salina Police Department (SPD) officers later located Ponting at the intersection of Crawford and Ninth streets and arrested him.

"Trenton was arrested for flee and elude, DUI, possession of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, failure to stopping at an accident, failed to yield to a stop sign and operation without driver's license," Melander said.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/9e3f230d-fe53-478d-9789-17c71e30f72c">Love Kansas campaign aims to draw past residents back to the Sunflower State</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719870613338.jpeg" alt="The crashed 2005 Ford operated by Trenton Ponting, a Salina resident arrested by Salina Police Department officers on Saturday, June 29, in Salina. Image courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>The crashed 2005 Ford operated by Trenton Ponting, a Salina resident arrested by Salina Police Department officers on Saturday, June 29, in Salina. Image courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead ReporterOn Saturday, June 29, a Saline County Sheriff's Office deputy witnessed a 2005 Ford vehicle fail to stop at a stop sign. When the deputy conducted a traffic stop and approached the car, the driver took off, leading to a quick pursuit and crash into a curb.Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander said the deputy first saw the vehicle at 1:20 a.m. Saturday morning at the intersection of West Crawford and Custer streets. Once the driver sped away, the deputy called dispatch to request help."The deputy jumped back in his vehicle, notified dispatch and surrounding units of the chase and began to pursue the vehicle," Melander said. The driver did not get far, only about a block away, where the car crashed into a curb and some vegetation near the road at 10 Tenlawns Place. Melander said the deputy reported that once the vehicle was no longer operational, the driver ran away from the car.Deputies said the passenger did not run away, but through investigations, they found that 28-year-old Monica May, from Salina, allegedly had marijuana.Through further investigations, Melander said that deputies found 25-year-old Salina resident Trenton Ponting as the vehicle's driver.Salina Police Department (SPD) officers later located Ponting at the intersection of Crawford and Ninth streets and arrested him."Trenton was arrested for flee and elude, DUI, possession of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, failure to stopping at an accident, failed to yield to a stop sign and operation without driver's license," Melander said.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/9e3f230d-fe53-478d-9789-17c71e30f72c">Love Kansas campaign aims to draw past residents back to the Sunflower State</a>

Salina man arrested after fleeing from SO deputies, arrested by SPD officers

Surrounded by colleagues, friends and family, Salina Airport Authority Executive Director Tim Rogers ceremoniously received his final call sign from the head of Air Traffic Control Manager Brandon Walker.

"The Airport Authority wanted to give you a proper sendoff," Walker said. "So without further adieu, Airport One, Salina Tower, you are cleared for retirement. Congratulations on a remarkable clear and the impact you've had on our community."

Rogers then shook Walker's hand, concluding the retirement celebration.

A host of speakers preceded Walker, with the Salina Airport Authority Board Vice Chair Stephanie Carlin introducing the event at 5 p.m. in Hangar 600.

Carlin first told the crowd about some of Rogers' impact on recent strides in job creation and industrial growth at Salina Regional Airport.

"Under his stewardship, the Salina Regional Airport has experienced significant growth, modernization and operational efficiency improvements," Carlin said. "His commitment to excellence and passion for aviation have not only shaped the airport's success but also have enriched the fabric of Salina."

Once Carlin finished her introductions, she brought Greg Bengston, the Salina Airport Authority board attorney, to the stage to speak about his long history with Rogers.

Bengston had the chance to witness Rogers early in his career. He saw a fiery young spirit who would do jobs no one else wanted to take on when Rogers first began at the Jefferson County, Colo., airport, commonly known as the Jeffco Airport.

"I did have an opportunity to observe Tim when he was a rookie at the Jeffco Airport," Bengston said. "He had the responsibility of doing everything and anything that no one else wanted to do. But, unlike here in Salina, he got to drive all the cool stuff, so that was fun to observe him in that role."

Rogers moved to another position at the Greeley County Airport before switching to Salina in 1985. For 40 years, Bengston said Rogers worked tirelessly to bring Salina Airport and industrial complex activities closer together.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/7068f395-a20b-49d1-9500-ce7d7041a7b2">U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran announces more than $33 million investment for K-State Salina</a>

Through his efforts, the Salina Airport Authority brought thousands of jobs to the region, living up to Rogers' mission in 1985 — to create jobs and payroll for the community, region and state.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719613774878.jpeg" alt="U.S. Senators Roger Marshall and Jerry Moran hold up an important piece of legislation aided by retiring Salina Airport Authority Executive Director Tim Rogers Salina Airport Authority retiring Executive Director Tim Rogers' during his retirement ceremony on Thursday, June 27, at Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600 in town. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Senators Roger Marshall and Jerry Moran hold up an important piece of legislation aided by retiring Salina Airport Authority Executive Director Tim Rogers Salina Airport Authority retiring Executive Director Tim Rogers' during his retirement ceremony on Thursday, June 27, at Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600 in town. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostSurrounded by colleagues, friends and family, Salina Airport Authority Executive Director Tim Rogers ceremoniously received his final call sign from the head of Air Traffic Control Manager Brandon Walker."The Airport Authority wanted to give you a proper sendoff," Walker said. "So without further adieu, Airport One, Salina Tower, you are cleared for retirement. Congratulations on a remarkable clear and the impact you've had on our community."Rogers then shook Walker's hand, concluding the retirement celebration.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719613087319.jpeg" alt="Dozens of Salina citizens, leaders and visitors gathered on Thursday, June 27, for long-time Salina Airport Authority Executive Director Tim Rogers' retirement ceremony at the Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600 in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Dozens of Salina citizens, leaders and visitors gathered on Thursday, June 27, for long-time Salina Airport Authority Executive Director Tim Rogers' retirement ceremony at the Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600 in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>A host of speakers preceded Walker, with the Salina Airport Authority Board Vice Chair Stephanie Carlin introducing the event at 5 p.m. in Hangar 600.Carlin first told the crowd about some of Rogers' impact on recent strides in job creation and industrial growth at Salina Regional Airport."Under his stewardship, the Salina Regional Airport has experienced significant growth, modernization and operational efficiency improvements," Carlin said. "His commitment to excellence and passion for aviation have not only shaped the airport's success but also have enriched the fabric of Salina."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719613179089.jpeg" alt="Salina Airport Authority Board Attorney Greg Bengston tells stories of Tim Rogers' career and his dedication to improving Salina Regional Airport on Thursday, June 27, at the Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600 in town. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina Airport Authority Board Attorney Greg Bengston tells stories of Tim Rogers' career and his dedication to improving Salina Regional Airport on Thursday, June 27, at the Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600 in town. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Once Carlin finished her introductions, she brought Greg Bengston, the Salina Airport Authority board attorney, to the stage to speak about his long history with Rogers.Bengston had the chance to witness Rogers early in his career. He saw a fiery young spirit who would do jobs no one else wanted to take on when Rogers first began at the Jefferson County, Colo., airport, commonly known as the Jeffco Airport."I did have an opportunity to observe Tim when he was a rookie at the Jeffco Airport," Bengston said. "He had the responsibility of doing everything and anything that no one else wanted to do. But, unlike here in Salina, he got to drive all the cool stuff, so that was fun to observe him in that role."Rogers moved to another position at the Greeley County Airport before switching to Salina in 1985. For 40 years, Bengston said Rogers worked tirelessly to bring Salina Airport and industrial complex activities closer together.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/7068f395-a20b-49d1-9500-ce7d7041a7b2">U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran announces more than $33 million investment for K-State Salina</a>Through his efforts, the Salina Airport Authority brought thousands of jobs to the region, living up to Rogers' mission in 1985 — to create jobs and payroll for the community, region and state.Multiple local leaders recognized this success during the retirement ceremony. Executive Director of the Salina Kansas Community Economic Development Organization Mitch Robinson and City of Salina Mayor Bill Longbine spoke about how Rogers brought successful enterprises to the region and completely transformed the city's industrial area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719613430410.jpeg" alt="Salina Airport Authority retiring Executive Director Tim Rogers holds up a bottle opener shaped like a jet gifted to him from City of Salina Mayor Longbine on Thursday, June 27, during Rogers' retirement ceremony at the Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina Airport Authority retiring Executive Director Tim Rogers holds up a bottle opener shaped like a jet gifted to him from City of Salina Mayor Longbine on Thursday, June 27, during Rogers' retirement ceremony at the Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Longbine read a letter addressed to Rogers from the City of Salina staff."On behalf of the citizens and businesses of Salina, we appreciate your generous service in fulfilling the Salina Airport Authority's vision and mission for the past 39 years," Longbine said. "Our community has directly benefited from your leadership, hard work, commitment and dedication to military operations and civilian aviation has made Salina one of the most progressive airport industrial parks in the nation."Longbine then handed over a key to the city alongside a few other gifts to celebrate Rogers' retirement.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719613604843.jpeg" alt="U.S. Senator Roger Marshall addresses the crowd on Salina Airport Authority retiring Executive Director Tim Rogers' career on Thursday, June 27, at Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600 in town. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Senator Roger Marshall addresses the crowd on Salina Airport Authority retiring Executive Director Tim Rogers' career on Thursday, June 27, at Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600 in town. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>A double Senator sendoff</h2>Two special guests attended Rogers' retirement celebration, U.S. Senators Roger Marshall and Jerry Moran.Both senators worked closely with Rogers throughout his career to help revitalize and improve the Salina Regional Airport and its industrial park.Sen. Marshall addressed the crowd before Sen. Moran and said he believed Salina Regional Airpot housed Kansas' fastest-growing and most successful industrial park."As I had some time on the road, coming here to greet and congratulate you, I thought to myself, 'How would you explain who Tim Rogers is?' and I thought about this old Nike commercial, 'Just Do It,'" Sen. Marshall said. "The first time I met Tim, he laid out kind of a two or three-year plan, and I came back in two or three years, and he'd done it and then started his next project."He congratulated Rogers on his retirement, shook his hand and handed the microphone to the next speaker — Sen. Moran.Sen. Moran spoke about his history and collaboration with Rogers, beginning early in each career and aiming to continue their partnership for more than two decades.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719613645308.jpeg" alt="U.S. Senator Jerry Moran addresses the crowd on Salina Airport Authority retiring Executive Director Tim Rogers' career on Thursday, June 27, at Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600 in town. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Senator Jerry Moran addresses the crowd on Salina Airport Authority retiring Executive Director Tim Rogers' career on Thursday, June 27, at Salina Airport Authority Hangar 600 in town. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"I was cutting a ribbon yesterday in Garden City — they have a new airport terminal, and the conversation was about Tim Rogers," Sen. Moran said. "The leadership that he provided and the role model that he plays in just aviation across the state. That's not really part of his job he's just a person that cares about other people and wants to make certain that good things happen at home."The last speaker to introduce himself, Ben Sauceda, the president and CEO of the Kansas Aviation Museum, brought a surprise to Rogers, even though Carlin mentioned that Rogers wasn't a big fan of surprises.Sauceda announced that Rogers is on the roster as a Kansas Aviation Museum Hall of Fame inductee. The organization will hold an event this fall to memorialize Rogers' career.Rogers then addressed the crowd last. With his official call sign, Airport One, already transferred to the Deputy Executive Director Pieter Miller — he had high hopes for what came next for the Airport Authority."A function the Airport Authority was charged with, in 1985 when it organized, was to create jobs and payroll for the community, region and state, to dampen or recover from the loss of 5,000 jobs with the closure of Schilling Air Force Base," Rogers said. "I think we're reaching that level, and the diamond is shining much brighter."Officially, Rogers will complete his career with the Airport Authority on Monday, July 1.