Salina Central High School celebrated the graduating class of 2024 at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/8bc7ecfc-a7fd-48a3-a685-c2ac0d10c5ae">📸 Southeast of Saline 2024 Commencement Ceremony</a>

Salina South High School&nbsp;celebrated the graduating class of 2024 at 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center.

On Sunday evening, during the Salina South High School Commencement Ceremony, Olivia Bergmeier, lead reporter at Salina Post, was called to report on severe weather that impacted the Saline County area.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3969fc82-b07d-4d4e-885d-fe75a7799560">🎥UPDATED: Severe weather coverage May 19 — Salina Airport reports 100 mph winds</a>

Salina Public Schools Communications Specialist Olivia Opat provided the images of Salina South High School's graduation ceremony.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716386274045.jpeg" alt="Salina Central High School students toss their caps in celebration of their 2024 Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina Central High School students toss their caps in celebration of their 2024 Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTSalina Central High School celebrated the graduating class of 2024 at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716386427312.jpeg" alt="Salina Central High School 2024 graduate Azbey Peckham provides one of two Graduate Addresses to her fellow classmates during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina Central High School 2024 graduate Azbey Peckham provides one of two Graduate Addresses to her fellow classmates during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716386467961.jpeg" alt="Salina Central High School students flip through the 2024 Commencement Ceremony pamphlet after finding their seats to begin the celebration during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina Central High School students flip through the 2024 Commencement Ceremony pamphlet after finding their seats to begin the celebration during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716386543125.jpeg" alt="Salina Central High School Principal Dr. Matthew Brungardt welcomes the students, friends and family during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina Central High School Principal Dr. Matthew Brungardt welcomes the students, friends and family during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/8bc7ecfc-a7fd-48a3-a685-c2ac0d10c5ae">📸 Southeast of Saline 2024 Commencement Ceremony</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716386656741.jpeg" alt="Salina Central High School student Lydia Dong provides the second Graduate Address during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina Central High School student Lydia Dong provides the second Graduate Address during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716386753606.jpeg" alt="The Salina Central High School band performs greeting the 2024 graduates during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The Salina Central High School band performs greeting the 2024 graduates during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716386917720.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Health Center Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer Robert Freelove, M.D., tells some words of advice and encouragement to the graduating class during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Health Center Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer Robert Freelove, M.D., tells some words of advice and encouragement to the graduating class during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716386969034.jpeg" alt="Faculty hands a Salina Central High School student a diploma during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Faculty hands a Salina Central High School student a diploma during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716387007751.jpeg" alt="Salina Central High School Assistant Principal Steve Rivers shakes a graduates hand during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina Central High School Assistant Principal Steve Rivers shakes a graduates hand during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716387143283.jpeg" alt="The Salina Central High School Free Spirit singing group performs the SCHS Alma Mater during the 2024 Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The Salina Central High School Free Spirit singing group performs the SCHS Alma Mater during the 2024 Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716387200748.jpeg" alt="A Salina Central High School student high-fives multiple teachers after finishing the ceremony during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>A Salina Central High School student high-fives multiple teachers after finishing the ceremony during the 2024 Salina Central High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Salina South High School</h2>Salina South High School&nbsp;celebrated the graduating class of 2024 at 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716391663347.jpeg" alt="Salina South High School 2024 graduates Alexandra Franco and Marisa Olivas stand for a photo before the 2024 Salina South High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center. Image courtesy Salina Public Schools Communications Specialist Olivia Opat" />
 <figcaption>Salina South High School 2024 graduates Alexandra Franco and Marisa Olivas stand for a photo before the 2024 Salina South High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center. Image courtesy Salina Public Schools Communications Specialist Olivia Opat</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716391732979.jpeg" alt="Salina South High School 2024 graduates Omar Aguayo and David Adams pose for a photo before the 2024 Salina South High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center. Image courtesy Salina Public Schools Communications Specialist Olivia Opat" />
 <figcaption>Salina South High School 2024 graduates Omar Aguayo and David Adams pose for a photo before the 2024 Salina South High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center. Image courtesy Salina Public Schools Communications Specialist Olivia Opat</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716391780546.jpeg" alt="Salina South High School 2024 graduate Kayelani Pheuisomphou poses for a photo before the 2024 Salina South High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center. Image courtesy Salina Public Schools Communications Specialist Olivia Opat" />
 <figcaption>Salina South High School 2024 graduate Kayelani Pheuisomphou poses for a photo before the 2024 Salina South High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center. Image courtesy Salina Public Schools Communications Specialist Olivia Opat</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716391816080.jpeg" alt="Salina South High School 2024 graduates Lola McBride and Alex Davidson pose for a photo before the 2024 Salina South High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center. Image courtesy Salina Public Schools Communications Specialist Olivia Opat" />
 <figcaption>Salina South High School 2024 graduates Lola McBride and Alex Davidson pose for a photo before the 2024 Salina South High School Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 19, at Tony's Pizza Events Center. Image courtesy Salina Public Schools Communications Specialist Olivia Opat</figcaption>
 </figure>On Sunday evening, during the Salina South High School Commencement Ceremony, Olivia Bergmeier, lead reporter at Salina Post, was called to report on severe weather that impacted the Saline County area.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3969fc82-b07d-4d4e-885d-fe75a7799560">🎥UPDATED: Severe weather coverage May 19 — Salina Airport reports 100 mph winds</a>Salina Public Schools Communications Specialist Olivia Opat provided the images of Salina South High School's graduation ceremony.

📸 Salina Public Schools 2024 Commencement Ceremonies

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina Post

The parking lot that City Lights Stage calls home had a new look on Saturday — tents and tables filled that space with about a dozen vendors for the season's first Farm and Art Market Downtown.

"People are smiling, people are doing exactly what we wanted this market to be, they're talking to one another and being a community," said Salina Downtown, Inc. (SDI) Executive Director Leslie Bishop. "This parking lot is meant to look like this on a Saturday morning."

Familiar businesses like AJ Honey Farms, LLC, Shroom-Mates and Bowden Beef participated in the first market. Still, Bishop said there will be about 20 to 22 vendors in the next few weekends as produce ripens.

Wind River Farm, a local goat farm owned by Angela Price from Falun, joined in selling various goat milk soaps and balms to customers.

"It doesn't look like any first market that I've seen — there's a lot more traffic, a lot more vendors for the first ever, and so I expect good things from this market," Price said.&nbsp;"Salina Downtown showed me a few things&nbsp;of&nbsp;what&nbsp;their plans&nbsp;are&nbsp;for this area, and I'm very impressed and looking forward to sticking around."

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/dceab434-5a0f-431a-8951-c8413870c905">Salina City Commissioners 'OK' next steps for possible shade structure in Downtown Salina</a>

<a href="https://www.salinadowntown.org/farmartmarket">The Farm and Art Market Downtown</a> aims to provide a space for all local Salina vendors to join in and sell their goods, art and other handmade items. More than 500 people stopped by the market on Saturday. Vendors sold-out of produce and craft goods within hours of the market's grand opening.&nbsp;

The market begins at 7:30 a.m. every Saturday during the summer and ends at noon at the City Lights Stage parking lot in downtown Salina.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716240367749.jpeg" alt="Shoppers browse the local food and goods at the first Farm and Art Market Downtown on Saturday, May 18, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Shoppers browse the local food and goods at the first Farm and Art Market Downtown on Saturday, May 18, in downtown Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostThe parking lot that City Lights Stage calls home had a new look on Saturday — tents and tables filled that space with about a dozen vendors for the season's first Farm and Art Market Downtown.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716240459097.jpeg" alt="Shroom-Mates owner Casey Andre (right) chats with a customer, Brian Metzger (left) about the ways to cook oyster mushrooms during the first Farm and Art Market Downtown on Saturday, May 18, near City Lights Stage in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Shroom-Mates owner Casey Andre (right) chats with a customer, Brian Metzger (left) about the ways to cook oyster mushrooms during the first Farm and Art Market Downtown on Saturday, May 18, near City Lights Stage in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"People are smiling, people are doing exactly what we wanted this market to be, they're talking to one another and being a community," said Salina Downtown, Inc. (SDI) Executive Director Leslie Bishop. "This parking lot is meant to look like this on a Saturday morning."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716240533015.jpeg" alt="Wind River Farm owner Angela Price (left) chats with a customer, Willow Leenders (right) about the benefits of using goat-milk soap during the first Farm and Art Market Downtown on Saturday, May 18, near City Lights Stage in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Wind River Farm owner Angela Price (left) chats with a customer, Willow Leenders (right) about the benefits of using goat-milk soap during the first Farm and Art Market Downtown on Saturday, May 18, near City Lights Stage in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Familiar businesses like AJ Honey Farms, LLC, Shroom-Mates and Bowden Beef participated in the first market. Still, Bishop said there will be about 20 to 22 vendors in the next few weekends as produce ripens.Wind River Farm, a local goat farm owned by Angela Price from Falun, joined in selling various goat milk soaps and balms to customers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716240588495.jpeg" alt="Wind River Farm goat-milk soaps lay out on a table ready for customers to browse during the first Farm and Art Market Downtown on Saturday, May 18, near City Lights Stage in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Wind River Farm goat-milk soaps lay out on a table ready for customers to browse during the first Farm and Art Market Downtown on Saturday, May 18, near City Lights Stage in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"It doesn't look like any first market that I've seen — there's a lot more traffic, a lot more vendors for the first ever, and so I expect good things from this market," Price said.&nbsp;"Salina Downtown showed me a few things&nbsp;of&nbsp;what&nbsp;their plans&nbsp;are&nbsp;for this area, and I'm very impressed and looking forward to sticking around."READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/dceab434-5a0f-431a-8951-c8413870c905">Salina City Commissioners 'OK' next steps for possible shade structure in Downtown Salina</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716240670046.jpeg" alt="AJ Honey Farms, LLC, wax melts stand ready for customers to browse during the first Farm and Art Market Downtown on Saturday, May 18, near City Lights Stage in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>AJ Honey Farms, LLC, wax melts stand ready for customers to browse during the first Farm and Art Market Downtown on Saturday, May 18, near City Lights Stage in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.salinadowntown.org/farmartmarket">The Farm and Art Market Downtown</a> aims to provide a space for all local Salina vendors to join in and sell their goods, art and other handmade items. More than 500 people stopped by the market on Saturday. Vendors sold-out of produce and craft goods within hours of the market's grand opening.&nbsp;The market begins at 7:30 a.m. every Saturday during the summer and ends at noon at the City Lights Stage parking lot in downtown Salina.

New Farm and Art Market Downtown, celebrating community with local small business

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina Post

A Salina man reported a burglary to Salina Police Department (SPD) officers after witnessing a woman walk into his hotel room and steal various personal items before walking away.

SPD Capt. David Villanueva said that between 5:24 and&nbsp;5:28 p.m., Sunday, May 19, 38-year-old Sandra Sekala allegedly walked into a 57-year-old Salina man's room at Budget King Inn on North Broadway Boulevard and stole about $179 in personal items.

"So the story goes that the man is in his room with the door ajar. Allegedly, the suspect came into the room, started taking some items, clothing and other items, put one of the items on and walked out," Villanueva said.&nbsp;

Sekala allegedly stole a t-shirt, a vape pen, a drawstring bag, some cigarettes, a coat, a few other clothing items and a battery pack.

Villanueva said officers recovered all the items after finding Sekala near a bus stop outside the hotel. Officers arrested Sekala for aggravated burglary and booked her into the Saline County Jail.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/f5bedbe7-40a1-44b8-9ee2-20f71c3fdb0f">Critical injuries from late Saturday night pedestrian accident in Salina</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574271818216.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostA Salina man reported a burglary to Salina Police Department (SPD) officers after witnessing a woman walk into his hotel room and steal various personal items before walking away.SPD Capt. David Villanueva said that between 5:24 and&nbsp;5:28 p.m., Sunday, May 19, 38-year-old Sandra Sekala allegedly walked into a 57-year-old Salina man's room at Budget King Inn on North Broadway Boulevard and stole about $179 in personal items."So the story goes that the man is in his room with the door ajar. Allegedly, the suspect came into the room, started taking some items, clothing and other items, put one of the items on and walked out," Villanueva said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716205346494.png" alt="Sekala, Sandra Lee" />
 <figcaption>Sekala, Sandra Lee</figcaption>
 </figure>Sekala allegedly stole a t-shirt, a vape pen, a drawstring bag, some cigarettes, a coat, a few other clothing items and a battery pack.Villanueva said officers recovered all the items after finding Sekala near a bus stop outside the hotel. Officers arrested Sekala for aggravated burglary and booked her into the Saline County Jail.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/f5bedbe7-40a1-44b8-9ee2-20f71c3fdb0f">Critical injuries from late Saturday night pedestrian accident in Salina</a>

Alleged aggravated burglary at Budget King Inn on Sunday

Late Saturday evening, a driver on South Broadway Boulevard struck a pedestrian who was walking east across the large roadway on South Street, critically injuring the pedestrian.

According to Salina Police Department (SPD) Capt. David Villanueva, a 48-year-old Salina driver struck the pedestrian at about 10:12 p.m. while she had a green light heading north on Broadway.&nbsp;

Villanueva said a witness saw the cross signals flashing "Do Not Cross" as the pedestrian entered the roadway.

"It was an independent witness who saw that the east and westbound lights were red — north and southbound was green," Villanueva said. "The car was going about 35 to 40 mph and didn't see the person when he stepped in front of the vehicle. That's when the collision occurred."

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/fddf8aaf-5d72-4a7e-8e4f-d3f2f00727a1">Local coaching legend Francis Flax to lead SES boys basketball program</a>

First responders took the 52-year-old Salina pedestrian to Salina Regional Health Center before crews transported him to Wesleyan Medical Center in Wichita for further treatment.

Villanueva said the pedestrian wore dark gray pants with a gray t-shirt, making him almost invisible in the late evening on May 18. The police report did not provide further updates on the man's condition in the hospital.&nbsp;

"It's still an ongoing investigation," Villanueva said. "Considering the fact that the driver had a green light while traveling northbound, she could do that. At the eastbound-westbound, the witness said it showed 'Don't Cross.'"

SPD officers continue investigating the incident.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574355645622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostLate Saturday evening, a driver on South Broadway Boulevard struck a pedestrian who was walking east across the large roadway on South Street, critically injuring the pedestrian.According to Salina Police Department (SPD) Capt. David Villanueva, a 48-year-old Salina driver struck the pedestrian at about 10:12 p.m. while she had a green light heading north on Broadway.&nbsp;Villanueva said a witness saw the cross signals flashing "Do Not Cross" as the pedestrian entered the roadway."It was an independent witness who saw that the east and westbound lights were red — north and southbound was green," Villanueva said. "The car was going about 35 to 40 mph and didn't see the person when he stepped in front of the vehicle. That's when the collision occurred."READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/fddf8aaf-5d72-4a7e-8e4f-d3f2f00727a1">Local coaching legend Francis Flax to lead SES boys basketball program</a>First responders took the 52-year-old Salina pedestrian to Salina Regional Health Center before crews transported him to Wesleyan Medical Center in Wichita for further treatment.Villanueva said the pedestrian wore dark gray pants with a gray t-shirt, making him almost invisible in the late evening on May 18. The police report did not provide further updates on the man's condition in the hospital.&nbsp;"It's still an ongoing investigation," Villanueva said. "Considering the fact that the driver had a green light while traveling northbound, she could do that. At the eastbound-westbound, the witness said it showed 'Don't Cross.'"SPD officers continue investigating the incident.Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.

Critical injuries from late Saturday night pedestrian accident in Salina

Click the play button above to see a video taken from five miles northeast of Brookville on May 19, 2024, at approximately 5:20 p.m.&nbsp; Video by Olivia Bergmeier

Precipitation data courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/">CoCoRaHS</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">The National Weather Service</a>.

Following precipitation events, Salina Post will update this page with precipitation totals.&nbsp;

As of 05/20/2024 at 9:30 a.m.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-HiWu6ZxV08?si=i_LdIy_IGQ0mKmG3" 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" ></iframe></div>Click the play button above to see a video taken from five miles northeast of Brookville on May 19, 2024, at approximately 5:20 p.m.&nbsp; Video by Olivia BergmeierBy SALINA POSTPrecipitation data courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/">CoCoRaHS</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">The National Weather Service</a>.Following precipitation events, Salina Post will update this page with precipitation totals.&nbsp;As of 05/20/2024 at 9:30 a.m.Salina —&nbsp; 1.40 inchesConcordia — 0.15 inchesEllsworth — 2.59 inchesLindsborg —&nbsp; 2.23 inchesAbilene —&nbsp; 2.78 inchesClay Center — 0.18 inchesMinneapolis — 1.27 inchesBeverly — 1.50 inchesMcPherson — 3.19 inchesGypsum — 1.57 inchesInman — 0.69 inchesPeabody — 1.95 inchesAssaria — 2.25 inches<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716216097390.png" alt="Lightning strikes near Brookville on May 19, 2024, at approximately 5:20 p.m. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Lightning strikes near Brookville on May 19, 2024, at approximately 5:20 p.m. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>

CoCoRahs 24-hour rain totals

Click the play button above to see video taken from five miles northeast of Brookville on May 19, 2024, at approximately 5:20 p.m. Video by Olivia Bergmeier

According to the Salina Airport the storm moving through Salina registered speeds of 100 mph at 5:59 p.m. on May 19.

Check Salina Post for new information as it becomes available and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/pages/severe-weather">severe weather page</a>.&nbsp;

Saline County Emergency Management Director Michelle Weis said the majority of damage occurred near Brookville and in southern Saline County.&nbsp;

"Couple power lines down, some reports of limbs down, and one particular on the railroad tracks on Fourth Street," said Weis. " We called Union Pacific and let them know about that."

Weis said most of Salina did not see a disruption in their electricity. However in Brookville many residents continue to experience outages.&nbsp;

"Brookville has quite a few limbs and trees down, one of their main lines is down in the park area of brookville," Weis said. "Right now if there are people reporting lines down-please do not touch the power lines. Leave it alone."&nbsp;

Weis reminds Saline County residents that the County remains in a Flood Warning until 11:30 p.m.&nbsp;

Salina Post has received reports of several power outages inside city limits and in western Saline County.

To view outages in our area go to <a href="https://outagemap.evergy.com/?_ga=2.264504719.146141627.1716160221-659751731.1716160221">evergy.com</a>

If you would like to submit photos of your storm damage to Salina Post, send photos, your location and name to newstips@salinapost.com

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

FLOOD WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 11:30 p.m. CDT THIS EVENING

WHAT Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected.

WHERE A portion of Central Kansas, including the following counties, McPherson and Saline.

IMPACTS Flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations is imminent or occurring.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS At 6:18 PM CDT, Doppler radar indicated heavy rain due to thunderstorms. Flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly in the warned area. Between 1 and 2 inches of rain have fallen. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are possible in the warned area.

Some locations that will experience flooding include Salina, Assaria, Gypsum, Brookville, Smolan, New Cambria,    Falun, Glendale, Salina Airport, Bridgeport and Kipp.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS Do not drive into flooded areas or go around barricades. Nearly two feet of water will carry most vehicles away. Turn around, don`t drown.

Please report observed flooding to local emergency services or law enforcement and request they pass this information to the National Weather Service when you can do so safely.

Thunderstorm Warning issued in eastern Saline County&nbsp;

The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Eastern Saline County in central Kansas until 6:45 p.m. CDT.

At 6:12 p.m. CDT, severe thunderstorms were located along a line  extending from near Niles to near New Cambria to Assaria, moving  east at 30 mph.

THESE ARE DESTRUCTIVE STORMS FOR EASTERN SALINE COUNTY

HAZARD 100 mph wind gusts and golf ball size hail.

IMPACT You are in a life-threatening situation. Flying debris may be deadly to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be destroyed. Expect considerable damage to homes and businesses. Expect extensive tree damage and power outages.

Locations impacted include Assaria, Gypsum, New Cambria, Bridgeport, and Kipp.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS

This is an EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SITUATION with tornado like wind speeds expected. Mobile homes and high profile vehicles are especially susceptible to winds of this magnitude and may be overturned. For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building. These storms have the potential to cause serious injury and significant property damage.

The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a severe Thunderstorm Warning for Western Dickinson County in central Kansas Southeastern Ottawa County in north central Kansas until 6:30 PM CDT.

At 5:42 PM CDT, severe thunderstorms were located along a line  extending from 3 miles west of Bennington to 4 miles northwest of  Salina to 5 miles southwest of Smolan, moving east at 25 mph.

HAZARD 70 mph wind gusts and ping pong ball size hail.

IMPACT People and animals outdoors will be injured. Expect hail damage to roofs, siding, windows, and vehicles. Expect considerable tree damage. Wind damage is also likely to mobile homes, roofs, and outbuildings.

Locations impacted include Abilene, Solomon, Bennington, Culver, Manchester, Carlton, Niles, and Talmage.

This includes Interstate 70 between mile markers 267 and 277.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building.

National Weather Service issues Severe Thunderstorm Warning in our area

The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Central Ellsworth County in central Kansas, Saline County in central Kansas Until 6:15 p.m. CDT.

* 

At 5:13 p.m. CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 6 miles west of
  Brookville, or 11 miles northeast of Kanopolis, moving east at 35
  mph.


HAZARD Two inch hail and 70 mph wind gusts.

SOURCE Radar indicated. IMPACT People and animals outdoors will be injured. Expect hail
 damage to roofs, siding, windows, and vehicles. Expect
 considerable tree damage. Wind damage is also likely to
 mobile homes, roofs, and outbuildings. Locations impacted include Salina, Ellsworth, Kanopolis, Assaria, Gypsum, Brookville, Smolan,
 New Cambria, Falun, Glendale, Salina Airport, Ellsworth Airport,
 Kanopolis State Park, Kipp, and Kanopolis Lake.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a
building.

Check Salina Post for new information as it becomes available and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/pages/severe-weather">severe weather page</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Flood Warning National Weather Service Wichita KS

5:28 P.M. CDT Sun May 19 2024 Ellsworth KS-Lincoln KS-Russell KS-5:28 P.M. CDT Sun May 19 2024

FLOOD WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 11:30 PM CDT THIS EVENING

WHERE A portion of Central Kansas, including the following counties, Ellsworth, Lincoln and Russell.

At 5:28 PM CDT, Doppler radar indicated heavy rain due to    thunderstorms. Flooding is ongoing or expected to begin    shortly in the warned area. Between 2 and 3 inches of rain    have fallen.

Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are possible in    the warned area.

Some locations that will experience flooding include: Russell, Ellsworth, Wilson, Kanopolis, Lincoln, Lucas, Gorham, Sylvan Grove, Dorrance, Beverly, Milberger, Bunker Hill, Wilson State Park, Wilson Lake, Ellsworth Airport, Russell Airport and Westfall.

In hilly terrain there are hundreds of low water crossings which are potentially dangerous in heavy rain. Do not attempt to cross flooded roads. Find an alternate route.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning issued for Lincoln County until 6:00 p.m.&nbsp;

The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Lincoln County in central Kansas Northern Ellsworth County in central Kansas until 6:00 p.m. CDT.

At 4:58 p.m. CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 6 miles southwest  of Beverly, or 7 miles southeast of Lincoln, moving east at 40 mph.

HAZARD 80 mph wind gusts and two inch hail.

IMPACT Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be heavily damaged. Expect considerable damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles. Extensive tree damage and power outages are likely.

Locations impacted include Wilson, Lincoln, Sylvan Grove, Beverly, Barnard, and Westfall.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS Remain alert for a possible tornado! Tornadoes can develop quickly from severe thunderstorms. If you spot a tornado go at once into the basement or small central room in a sturdy structure.

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Ottawa County

Severe Thunderstorm Warning The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Southern Ottawa County in north central Kansas until 5:45 p.m. CDT.

At 4:39 p.m. CDT, severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from 4 miles north of Lincoln to 11 miles north of Kanopolis to 3 miles west of Ellsworth, moving east at 40 mph.

HAZARD Golf ball size hail and 70 mph wind gusts.

IMPACT People and animals outdoors will be injured. Expect hail damage to roofs, siding, windows, and vehicles. Expect considerable tree damage. Wind damage is also likely to mobile homes, roofs, and outbuildings.

Locations impacted include Minneapolis, Bennington, Tescott, Culver, Wells, and Niles.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building.

Tornado Warning Lincoln until 5 p.m. and Tornado Warning in Northern Ellsworth Counties Remains in Effect until 5:15 p.m.&nbsp;

National Weather Service Wichita KS 4:37 p.m. CDT Sun May 19 2024 

🎥UPDATED: Severe weather coverage May 19 — Salina Airport reports 100 mph winds

A Salina woman reported a storage unit burglary this week after returning to her unit and finding $3,800 in jewelry missing.

Salina Police Department (SPD) Capt. James Feldman said officers went to <a href="https://www.centralksselfstorage.com/">Salina Mini Storage</a> at about 3 p.m. on Thursday, May 16, after the 39-year-old woman reported the burglary from earlier in the week.

Feldman said that video evidence shows the burglary happened between 11 and 11:35 p.m. on Tuesday, May 14.

"They observed on video a four-door, dark-colored sedan," Feldman said. "What appeared to be a male subject wearing a green hoodie and blue jeans. [He] appears to be slim to a skinny-statured white male."

The suspect allegedly stole a jewelry box that contained a graduation ring, a wedding band and two sterling silver cross necklaces.

Officers have yet to identify a suspect in the burglary but continue investigating the crime.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/31e6d3f4-e869-4b33-8b80-56b134ed7895">SFD uses Jaws of Life to help crash victim near Salina Central High School</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574569805735.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostA Salina woman reported a storage unit burglary this week after returning to her unit and finding $3,800 in jewelry missing.Salina Police Department (SPD) Capt. James Feldman said officers went to <a href="https://www.centralksselfstorage.com/">Salina Mini Storage</a> at about 3 p.m. on Thursday, May 16, after the 39-year-old woman reported the burglary from earlier in the week.Feldman said that video evidence shows the burglary happened between 11 and 11:35 p.m. on Tuesday, May 14."They observed on video a four-door, dark-colored sedan," Feldman said. "What appeared to be a male subject wearing a green hoodie and blue jeans. [He] appears to be slim to a skinny-statured white male."The suspect allegedly stole a jewelry box that contained a graduation ring, a wedding band and two sterling silver cross necklaces.Officers have yet to identify a suspect in the burglary but continue investigating the crime.Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/31e6d3f4-e869-4b33-8b80-56b134ed7895">SFD uses Jaws of Life to help crash victim near Salina Central High School</a>

SPD investigates storage unit burglary, $3,800 in jewelry stolen

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

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

9:05-9:30 a.m. Amy Banks, Letter Carrier Food Drive Coordinator for the Salina Post Office

9:30-10 a.m. John Armstrong and Bigg Vinny talk about the <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a09a8b02-0db8-4d82-92a6-03763823f6a8">Salute to Our Veterans benefit performance</a>&nbsp;and dinner at the Tumbleweed on Saturday, May 18

10:00-10:30 a.m. Olivia Bergmeier, "Gal on the Street" at the kick-off for the Farm and Art Market in Downtown Salina&nbsp;

10:30-11:00 a.m. Jamie Doss, Saline County Clerk shares information about the upcoming 2024 Election

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591971280271.jpeg" alt="KINA New logo Blue Black" />
 <figcaption>KINA New logo Blue Black</figcaption>
 </figure> By SALINA POSTJoin 910KINA's Saturday Morning Show hosts Dave Foor and Nate King this Saturday from 9 to 11 a.m. on 910AM 107.5 FM.Hear highlights about community events, public affairs, and all things happening in Salina. Their approach is friendly, informative, and entertaining. To listen to past 910KINA Saturday Morning Shows head on over to the KINA podcast homepage <a href="http://910kina.com">here. </a>9:05-9:30 a.m. Amy Banks, Letter Carrier Food Drive Coordinator for the Salina Post Office9:30-10 a.m. John Armstrong and Bigg Vinny talk about the <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a09a8b02-0db8-4d82-92a6-03763823f6a8">Salute to Our Veterans benefit performance</a>&nbsp;and dinner at the Tumbleweed on Saturday, May 1810:00-10:30 a.m. Olivia Bergmeier, "Gal on the Street" at the kick-off for the Farm and Art Market in Downtown Salina&nbsp;10:30-11:00 a.m. Jamie Doss, Saline County Clerk shares information about the upcoming 2024 Election

910 KINA Saturday Morning Lineup

Late yesterday evening, Salina Fire Department (SFD) firefighters responded to 650 East Crawford Street for a head-on collision that required the use of the Jaws of Life.

According to SFD Deputy Chief Shane Pearson, just before 9:06 p.m., the driver of one vehicle crossed over the center line of Crawford Street and crashed head-on into another car.

"There were two [occupants] in that car, and they both&nbsp;were transported&nbsp;but no life-threatening injuries," Pearson said.&nbsp;

Pearson said local emergency services did not transport the other vehicle's occupants to Salina Regional Health Center.&nbsp;

LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/eb9d6b20-de39-4216-9b0a-1c488dfeb1e6">🎙King in the Community — Crystal Hammerschmidt, Salina Arts and Humanities</a>

Still, firefighters used the Jaws of Life to extricate one of the passengers from the car that crossed over the centerline on Crawford.

"While they were getting one of the patients out of the cars, they did have to remove the passenger door," Pearson said. "It was off the car."

Salina Post contacted the Salina Police Department (SPD), and according to SPD Capt. James Feldman, officers are still working to complete the accident report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704473450444.jpeg" alt="Salina Fire Department One" />
 <figcaption>Salina Fire Department One</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostLate yesterday evening, Salina Fire Department (SFD) firefighters responded to 650 East Crawford Street for a head-on collision that required the use of the Jaws of Life.According to SFD Deputy Chief Shane Pearson, just before 9:06 p.m., the driver of one vehicle crossed over the center line of Crawford Street and crashed head-on into another car.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2586.7134079280054!2d-97.60363349759879!3d38.82586495888595!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bcc5fd3db68b47%3A0x953f1c1fdb3389aa!2s650%20E%20Crawford%20St%2C%20Salina%2C%20KS%2067401!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1715960035719!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>"There were two [occupants] in that car, and they both&nbsp;were transported&nbsp;but no life-threatening injuries," Pearson said.&nbsp;Pearson said local emergency services did not transport the other vehicle's occupants to Salina Regional Health Center.&nbsp;LISTEN:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/eb9d6b20-de39-4216-9b0a-1c488dfeb1e6">🎙King in the Community — Crystal Hammerschmidt, Salina Arts and Humanities</a>Still, firefighters used the Jaws of Life to extricate one of the passengers from the car that crossed over the centerline on Crawford."While they were getting one of the patients out of the cars, they did have to remove the passenger door," Pearson said. "It was off the car."Salina Post contacted the Salina Police Department (SPD), and according to SPD Capt. James Feldman, officers are still working to complete the accident report.Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.

SFD uses Jaws of Life to help crash victim near Salina Central High School

Late Tuesday evening, Salina Police Department (SPD) officers responded to a disturbance at a local inn after someone reported a woman allegedly swinging a baseball bat at another hotel guest.

According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, officers went to the Marifah Inn on North Ninth Street just before 8:11 p.m. Tuesday, May 14, and spoke with the victim.

The 33-year-old woman reported that 37-year-old Amanda Myers allegedly verbally assaulted her before threatening her later in the hotel lobby.

"Myers was yelling unknown things at her when the victim went to the lobby to report the issues of her being harassed by Amanda Myers when Myers walked into the lobby with a bat and ended up swinging at the victim," Feldman said. "The victim was scared for her safety, and several other people and workers there kept Myers away from the victim."

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/eb9d6b20-de39-4216-9b0a-1c488dfeb1e6">🎙King in the Community — Crystal Hammerschmidt, Salina Arts and Humanities</a>

Once officers took the victim's report of events about the incident, they visited Myers' room at the inn to question her further.

Feldman said that after officers met Myers at the door to her room, she attempted to flee back into the room away from officers and gave some resistance against

There, Myers initially answered the door for the officers, but Feldman said she attempted to flee arrest and gave some resistance.

"She was taken&nbsp;into custody and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and interference with law enforcement, which is also a felony," Feldman said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574271818216.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostLate Tuesday evening, Salina Police Department (SPD) officers responded to a disturbance at a local inn after someone reported a woman allegedly swinging a baseball bat at another hotel guest.According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, officers went to the Marifah Inn on North Ninth Street just before 8:11 p.m. Tuesday, May 14, and spoke with the victim.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3106.242677100809!2d-97.61363662446179!3d38.8726892481624!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bccf8751f716cd%3A0xf7735747c41daa69!2sMarifah%20Inn%20Salina!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1715913874804!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>The 33-year-old woman reported that 37-year-old Amanda Myers allegedly verbally assaulted her before threatening her later in the hotel lobby."Myers was yelling unknown things at her when the victim went to the lobby to report the issues of her being harassed by Amanda Myers when Myers walked into the lobby with a bat and ended up swinging at the victim," Feldman said. "The victim was scared for her safety, and several other people and workers there kept Myers away from the victim."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715774424910.jpeg" alt=" Myers, Amanda Sue Beatrice. Image courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption> Myers, Amanda Sue Beatrice. Image courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/eb9d6b20-de39-4216-9b0a-1c488dfeb1e6">🎙King in the Community — Crystal Hammerschmidt, Salina Arts and Humanities</a>Once officers took the victim's report of events about the incident, they visited Myers' room at the inn to question her further.Feldman said that after officers met Myers at the door to her room, she attempted to flee back into the room away from officers and gave some resistance againstThere, Myers initially answered the door for the officers, but Feldman said she attempted to flee arrest and gave some resistance."She was taken&nbsp;into custody and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and interference with law enforcement, which is also a felony," Feldman said.

SPD arrest woman at local inn for allegedly threatening guest with baseball bat

With the budget at the forefront of most commissioners' minds, the Saline County Board of Commissioners met for its regular meeting on Tuesday, May 14, and began tackling its action item agenda, which included three items: two requests from Saline County Road and Bridge and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding management.

All commissioners participated in the meeting, with District One Commissioner Monte Shadwick calling in online.

Board of County Commissioners present on Tuesday, May 14:

District One — Monte Shadwick District Two — Robert Vidricksen District Three — Rodger Sparks District Four — James Weese District Five — Chairman Joe Hay Jr.

Saline County Road and Bridge mulcher attachment

Saline County Road and Bridge Administrator Darren Fishel first presented a mulcher attachment purchase to commissioners, which includes a $73,385 price tag.

Fishel told commissioners that this purchase would account for an additional mulcher attachment for its two other tree management crews, completing the team with the third crew gaining its own mulcher.

"You said this is the last time we're going to hit this account for this year, so that means for the next eight months, you're not going to come to us for any more equipment. Can I count on that?" Vidricksen asked Fishel.

"Things happen sometimes — you can't predict what's either going to break or sometimes things become available to the secondary market that you say, 'Oh, we could upgrade some of our equipment,'" Fishel said. "I don't plan on any more [purchases] this year."&nbsp;

After a few further questions and comments from Vidricksen and Weese, Vidricksen said he saw the necessity for the purchase. Still, with the department already owning two other mulcher attachments, he had difficulty approving the purchase.

Chairman Joe Hay asked the commission for a motion, which Sparks moved. The vote passed 3-2, with Commissioner James Weese and Vidricksen voting against the purchase.

The following action item commissioners tackled was a Federal Fund Exchange Agreement for Saline County Road and Bridge, where each year, the department exchanges federal funds with the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) to make those dollars easier to use.

Justin Mader, the Saline County engineer, presented the topic to commissioners, stating that this year's exchange would continue the $0.90 for every $1.00 of federal funds, which for Saline County would mean turning in $232,629.76 of federal cash to KDOT for a $209,366.78 reimbursement.

"If you leave it as federal funds, we have to meet&nbsp;very strict&nbsp;requirements for a project," Mader said. "That usually drives the cost of a project up way more than the 10% we're losing doing this exchange."

Saline County Road and Bridge plans to use the funds for its annual asphalt repair as it had for years before.

After a few questions from commissioners, Hay asked for a motion, which Vidricksen moved with Sparks seconding, leading to the unanimous approval for the fund exchange.

READ MORE:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a05bc894-a063-41dd-9189-2199c232e93f">&nbsp;Second Medallion Quest Clue announced</a>

ARPA Project Modifications and Update&nbsp;

Saline County Administrator Philip Smith-Hanes opened the conversation by telling commissioners that the county has continued to use and talk about the federal government's American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for COVID-19 relief.

The initial amount sent to the county on March 11, 2021, included $10,532,376, which staff worked to allocate to various projects. The county has spent over $7.85 million of those funds.

ARPA dollars have an expiration date, with allocation required by the end of 2024 and cash spent by December 2025.

Smith-Hanes covered the various projects listed, and commissioners discussed how they would like ARPA funding to move through the next year and a half.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697467290838.jpeg" alt="The Saline County and Salina City building at 300 West Ash Street in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The Saline County and Salina City building at 300 West Ash Street in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostWith the budget at the forefront of most commissioners' minds, the Saline County Board of Commissioners met for its regular meeting on Tuesday, May 14, and began tackling its action item agenda, which included three items: two requests from Saline County Road and Bridge and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding management.All commissioners participated in the meeting, with District One Commissioner Monte Shadwick calling in online.Board of County Commissioners present on Tuesday, May 14:District One — Monte Shadwick District Two — Robert Vidricksen District Three — Rodger Sparks District Four — James Weese District Five — Chairman Joe Hay Jr.<h2>Saline County Road and Bridge mulcher attachment</h2>Saline County Road and Bridge Administrator Darren Fishel first presented a mulcher attachment purchase to commissioners, which includes a $73,385 price tag.Fishel told commissioners that this purchase would account for an additional mulcher attachment for its two other tree management crews, completing the team with the third crew gaining its own mulcher."You said this is the last time we're going to hit this account for this year, so that means for the next eight months, you're not going to come to us for any more equipment. Can I count on that?" Vidricksen asked Fishel.Fishel reluctantly replied, "No.""Things happen sometimes — you can't predict what's either going to break or sometimes things become available to the secondary market that you say, 'Oh, we could upgrade some of our equipment,'" Fishel said. "I don't plan on any more [purchases] this year."&nbsp;After a few further questions and comments from Vidricksen and Weese, Vidricksen said he saw the necessity for the purchase. Still, with the department already owning two other mulcher attachments, he had difficulty approving the purchase.Chairman Joe Hay asked the commission for a motion, which Sparks moved. The vote passed 3-2, with Commissioner James Weese and Vidricksen voting against the purchase.<h2>2024 Federal Fund Exchange Agreement</h2>The following action item commissioners tackled was a Federal Fund Exchange Agreement for Saline County Road and Bridge, where each year, the department exchanges federal funds with the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) to make those dollars easier to use.Justin Mader, the Saline County engineer, presented the topic to commissioners, stating that this year's exchange would continue the $0.90 for every $1.00 of federal funds, which for Saline County would mean turning in $232,629.76 of federal cash to KDOT for a $209,366.78 reimbursement."If you leave it as federal funds, we have to meet&nbsp;very strict&nbsp;requirements for a project," Mader said. "That usually drives the cost of a project up way more than the 10% we're losing doing this exchange."Saline County Road and Bridge plans to use the funds for its annual asphalt repair as it had for years before.After a few questions from commissioners, Hay asked for a motion, which Vidricksen moved with Sparks seconding, leading to the unanimous approval for the fund exchange.READ MORE:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a05bc894-a063-41dd-9189-2199c232e93f">&nbsp;Second Medallion Quest Clue announced</a><h2>ARPA Project Modifications and Update&nbsp;</h2>Saline County Administrator Philip Smith-Hanes opened the conversation by telling commissioners that the county has continued to use and talk about the federal government's American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for COVID-19 relief.The initial amount sent to the county on March 11, 2021, included $10,532,376, which staff worked to allocate to various projects. The county has spent over $7.85 million of those funds.ARPA dollars have an expiration date, with allocation required by the end of 2024 and cash spent by December 2025.Smith-Hanes covered the various projects listed, and commissioners discussed how they would like ARPA funding to move through the next year and a half.<h2>Informational Items</h2><ol>
 <li><a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=7195">Human Resources Quarterly Update</a></li><li><a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=7185">Expo, Weed, Farm Update</a></li><li><a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=7196">Overview of Budget Requests for 2025</a></li><li>Commissioner Comments</li><li>Announcements</li>
 </ol><h2>Concept Discussion</h2><ol>
 <li>Expo Center Update and Discussion</li>
 </ol><h2>Executive Session</h2><ol>
 <li>Non-Elected Personnel</li>
 </ol><h2>05/21/2024 Agenda Items</h2><ol>
 <li>Study Session - Budget</li>
 </ol>

Saline County Commissioners focus on budget, continues to next meeting agenda

Salina Police Department (SPD) officers chased a Salina resident to Lincoln County yesterday evening, requiring officers to ask Saline County Sheriff's Office deputies for assistance.

According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, at about 5:20 p.m. Wednesday, in the 400 block of South College Avenue, an officer saw a black 2004 Pontiac GTO without headlights on in the rain, alongside faulty brake lights.

"The officer attempted to pull over the vehicle, but it failed to stop, and a pursuit&nbsp;was initiated," Feldman said. "The vehicle first went north on College to Iron, east on Iron to Ninth Street, south back to Crawford Street and then out into the county where the pursuit continued on multiple county roads."&nbsp;

Once the Pontiac's driver reached Lincoln County, Saline County Sheriff's deputies joined the chase. Feldman said that speeds on Lincoln County roads reached up to 130 mph.

The driver eventually stopped near the intersection of Navajo Drive and 250th Road, and officers identified the Salina resident driver as 33-year-old Deric Bell.

"He was taken&nbsp;into custody for felony flee and elude, felony interference with law enforcement, driving while revoked, habitual violator, reckless driving and numerous other driving issues," Feldman said.

Feldman said Bell had a passenger in the Pontiac, who SPD officers discovered was actually the vehicle's owner. Officers then cited the woman for allowing Bell to drive the car.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715861445709.jpeg" alt="Deric Bell" />
 <figcaption>Deric Bell</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Lead Reporter - Salina PostSalina Police Department (SPD) officers chased a Salina resident to Lincoln County yesterday evening, requiring officers to ask Saline County Sheriff's Office deputies for assistance.According to SPD Capt. James Feldman, at about 5:20 p.m. Wednesday, in the 400 block of South College Avenue, an officer saw a black 2004 Pontiac GTO without headlights on in the rain, alongside faulty brake lights."The officer attempted to pull over the vehicle, but it failed to stop, and a pursuit&nbsp;was initiated," Feldman said. "The vehicle first went north on College to Iron, east on Iron to Ninth Street, south back to Crawford Street and then out into the county where the pursuit continued on multiple county roads."&nbsp;Once the Pontiac's driver reached Lincoln County, Saline County Sheriff's deputies joined the chase. Feldman said that speeds on Lincoln County roads reached up to 130 mph.READ MORE:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a05bc894-a063-41dd-9189-2199c232e93f">&nbsp;Second Medallion Quest Clue announced</a>The driver eventually stopped near the intersection of Navajo Drive and 250th Road, and officers identified the Salina resident driver as 33-year-old Deric Bell."He was taken&nbsp;into custody for felony flee and elude, felony interference with law enforcement, driving while revoked, habitual violator, reckless driving and numerous other driving issues," Feldman said.Feldman said Bell had a passenger in the Pontiac, who SPD officers discovered was actually the vehicle's owner. Officers then cited the woman for allowing Bell to drive the car.

SPD and Saline County SO arrest Salina resident after 130 mph chase into Lincoln County

The 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival Medallion Quest is underway!

The Festival Medallion Quest 2024 prize package includes the following:

· $2,000 in Festival Gift Certificates, to be used for purchases in the Fine Art and Craft Show or Art/Craft Demonstration Area during the Festival weekend

· Four complimentary Festival admission wristbands

· One on-grounds Festival parking pass (weather permitting)

· An invitation for four to attend the evening PREMIERE Art Patron Party on Thursday, June 13

· Four Smoky Hill River Festival t-shirts

“The Festival Medallion Quest is the perfect way to kick off the festival season,” said Salina Arts and Humanities Director Brad Anderson. “Thousands of searchers get to see the town with new eyes as they interpret clues and get creative trying to find the Medallion.”

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/b7840647-570e-46c9-b3db-a74fa03752e1">🎥First details released for 48th Smoky Hill River Festival</a>

Clues will be released at 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. daily on the Quest website,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.festivalmedallionquest.com/" target="_blank">www.festivalmedallionquest.com</a>,&nbsp;beginning at 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 15, on the steps of the Smoky Hill Museum.&nbsp;

The clues will also be posted outside the west doors on Eighth Street at the Salina Arts &amp; Humanities office on the corner of Eighth and Iron Ave.&nbsp;&nbsp;

No purchase is necessary to participate or win.

Employees of Salina Arts &amp; Humanities or SAH Foundation Board members and their families are not eligible to win.

Participants assume all risk and release the City of Salina, Salina Arts &amp; Humanities, and the Salina Arts &amp; Humanities Foundation from liability for any injuries or damages to themselves.

Clues WILL NOT be given over the phone or via email

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715872239956.jpeg" alt="Medallion Clues are revealed daily at 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on the Eighth Street entrance to the Smoky Hill Museum. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Medallion Clues are revealed daily at 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on the Eighth Street entrance to the Smoky Hill Museum. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe 2024 Smoky Hill River Festival Medallion Quest is underway!Clue No. 2: Some are not spikedThe Festival Medallion Quest 2024 prize package includes the following:· $1,000 in cash· $2,000 in Festival Gift Certificates, to be used for purchases in the Fine Art and Craft Show or Art/Craft Demonstration Area during the Festival weekend· Four complimentary Festival admission wristbands· One on-grounds Festival parking pass (weather permitting)· An invitation for four to attend the evening PREMIERE Art Patron Party on Thursday, June 13· Four Smoky Hill River Festival t-shirts“The Festival Medallion Quest is the perfect way to kick off the festival season,” said Salina Arts and Humanities Director Brad Anderson. “Thousands of searchers get to see the town with new eyes as they interpret clues and get creative trying to find the Medallion.”READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/b7840647-570e-46c9-b3db-a74fa03752e1">🎥First details released for 48th Smoky Hill River Festival</a>Clues will be released at 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. daily on the Quest website,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.festivalmedallionquest.com/" target="_blank">www.festivalmedallionquest.com</a>,&nbsp;beginning at 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 15, on the steps of the Smoky Hill Museum.&nbsp;The clues will also be posted outside the west doors on Eighth Street at the Salina Arts &amp; Humanities office on the corner of Eighth and Iron Ave.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715808130992.jpeg" alt="Medallion Quest 2024" />
 <figcaption>Medallion Quest 2024</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Medallion Quest Rules</h2>No purchase is necessary to participate or win.Employees of Salina Arts &amp; Humanities or SAH Foundation Board members and their families are not eligible to win.Participants assume all risk and release the City of Salina, Salina Arts &amp; Humanities, and the Salina Arts &amp; Humanities Foundation from liability for any injuries or damages to themselves.Clues WILL NOT be given over the phone or via emailThe Medallion will be easy to remove from its location and WILL NOT require climbing, digging, tools or ladders, or the destruction of property.The objects are located on public property within the Salina city limits, which may include City parks.&nbsp;Curfews hours for all City parks remain in effect during the Quest and are posted at each park.NOTHING will be hidden:At Kenwood or Oakdale ParksOn Private PropertyOn Salina Airport Authority PropertyThe Medallion will be easy to identify because it will have a message and contact information attached or written directly on it.DO NOT&nbsp;post any photos of an object on social media until it has been officially confirmed to be genuine.Once the Medallion has been confirmed as found, the public will be notified of the time and place where the official press conference and award presentation will take place. Notification will be posted on the Festival Medallion Quest and Smoky Hill River Festival websites, through participating local media partners, and physically outside the west entrance of the Salina Arts &amp; Humanities Office at 211 W. Iron Ave.