Tonight A 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 7 p.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 50. Northwest wind 7 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 79. North wind 7 to 10 mph. Tuesday Night A 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low of around 53. East wind 6 to 8 mph becoming south after midnight.

Wednesday Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 1 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 75. South southeast wind 7 to 11 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Wednesday Night Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 55. Chance of precipitation is 60%. Thursday A 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 75.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715621499046.png" alt="NWS- Wichita four day weather forecast" />
 <figcaption>NWS- Wichita four day weather forecast</figcaption>
 </figure>NWS-WichitaTonight A 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 7 p.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 50. Northwest wind 7 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 79. North wind 7 to 10 mph. Tuesday Night A 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low of around 53. East wind 6 to 8 mph becoming south after midnight.Wednesday Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 1 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 75. South southeast wind 7 to 11 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Wednesday Night Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 55. Chance of precipitation is 60%. Thursday A 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 75.

NWS-Wichita four day weather forecast, chance for rain showers

Steven K. Howe, a Republican from Salina, has completed the necessary paperwork to become a candidate for the Republican nomination for State Representative in Kansas House District 71.

“It has been an honor to serve the people of the 71st District,"said Howe. "With the state treasury having an ending balance of nearly $4 billion dollars, I have consistently supported measures to bring tax relief to all Kansans. As Chairman of the Higher Education Budget Committee, I have advocated for Salina Area Technical College and Kansas State University of Salina - both of which are seeing positive growth in enrollment. Building the talent pipeline will continue to be a priority for me if elected. I have also used my position on the Committee on Appropriations to support balanced budgets and oppose the expansion of government.”

During Representative Howe’s time in office he played an integral role in passing a resolution calling for a Convention of States for the purposes of proposing amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose limits on the federal government including term limits for Members of Congress. 

“For thirteen-plus years I had the high honor of working in both our nation’s Capital and in a district office for two members of Congress from Kansas," Howe said. "When I first started on Capitol Hill in 2003, it was not too far after the 9-11 terrorist attacks and Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan) was in full swing, and it was just before the lead up to the War in Iraq, which was also known as Operation Iraqi Freedom. During that time the national debt was $6.7 trillion and the Debt-to-GDP ratio was 59%."

"Compare that with today, where our national debt surpassed $34 trillion dollars this year, and the Debt-to-GDP ratio is over 120%. During that time we’ve had two Republican Presidents, two Democrat Presidents, and both parties have controlled Congress at different points," Howe said. "Campaign promises are made and broken, and the American people often feel jaded and powerless - like nothing will ever change, no matter who they send to Congress. What can possibly address this? Is there hope? I believe so. That hope is found in Article 5 of the U.S. Constitution.”

Representative Howe also led the charge in the Legislature to pass a law which prohibits Kansas public colleges and universities from requiring statements on diversity, equity and inclusion as a condition for employment, promotion, admissions or student aid.

“I am glad the Governor and the majority of the Kansas Legislature stand in support of academic freedom, intellectual diversity and freedom of speech on our college campuses. In recent years many colleges and universities have required students and faculty to pledge their allegiance to a politicized understanding of “diversity, equity and inclusion” as a condition for employment and promotion," Howe said. "Loyalty oaths and political litmus tests are not constitutional, and that is why I introduced and worked to pass this bill which is supported by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE).”

This past session Representative Howe worked to fully fund K-12 education, and fought to ensure the formula for special education funding was not changed to the detriment of students and their families.

 “The state needs to fully fund special education as the state statute requires paying 92% of excess costs. Since the inception of special education reforms of the 1970’s, the federal government has never fulfilled their commitment of providing states up to 40% of funding. With the school finance formula set to expire in 2027, it is important to send elected officials to the Legislature who are willing to listen, learn and work to support our students, teachers and their families," Howe said.&nbsp;

Representative Howe is known for his commitment to be home each night with his family. Every day during this session, Representative Howe drove from Salina to Topeka and back - traveling nearly 10,000 miles. 

“As a husband, and father of five children, it is important for me to be home each night. I am grateful for the love and support of my family as they allow me to serve. I look forward to running a positive campaign that listens, encourages civility, and promotes a stronger Salina and Saline County," Howe said.

For more information about Steven Howe’s candidacy for State Representative, please visit his campaign website at <a href="http://www.stevenkhowe.com">www.stevenkhowe.com</a>.

Howe can be reached at HoweKS71@gmail.com or 785-643-1606.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715621835807.jpeg" alt="Representative Howe speaks on the House floor in support of a resolution honoring the Kansas Mission of Mercy which held a free dental clinic in Salina in January at the Tony's Pizza Event Center January 12-13. Image Courtesy&nbsp; Steven Howe campaign" />
 <figcaption>Representative Howe speaks on the House floor in support of a resolution honoring the Kansas Mission of Mercy which held a free dental clinic in Salina in January at the Tony's Pizza Event Center January 12-13. Image Courtesy&nbsp; Steven Howe campaign</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedSteven K. Howe, a Republican from Salina, has completed the necessary paperwork to become a candidate for the Republican nomination for State Representative in Kansas House District 71.“It has been an honor to serve the people of the 71st District,"said Howe. "With the state treasury having an ending balance of nearly $4 billion dollars, I have consistently supported measures to bring tax relief to all Kansans. As Chairman of the Higher Education Budget Committee, I have advocated for Salina Area Technical College and Kansas State University of Salina - both of which are seeing positive growth in enrollment. Building the talent pipeline will continue to be a priority for me if elected. I have also used my position on the Committee on Appropriations to support balanced budgets and oppose the expansion of government.”During Representative Howe’s time in office he played an integral role in passing a resolution calling for a Convention of States for the purposes of proposing amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose limits on the federal government including term limits for Members of Congress. “For thirteen-plus years I had the high honor of working in both our nation’s Capital and in a district office for two members of Congress from Kansas," Howe said. "When I first started on Capitol Hill in 2003, it was not too far after the 9-11 terrorist attacks and Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan) was in full swing, and it was just before the lead up to the War in Iraq, which was also known as Operation Iraqi Freedom. During that time the national debt was $6.7 trillion and the Debt-to-GDP ratio was 59%.""Compare that with today, where our national debt surpassed $34 trillion dollars this year, and the Debt-to-GDP ratio is over 120%. During that time we’ve had two Republican Presidents, two Democrat Presidents, and both parties have controlled Congress at different points," Howe said. "Campaign promises are made and broken, and the American people often feel jaded and powerless - like nothing will ever change, no matter who they send to Congress. What can possibly address this? Is there hope? I believe so. That hope is found in Article 5 of the U.S. Constitution.”Representative Howe also led the charge in the Legislature to pass a law which prohibits Kansas public colleges and universities from requiring statements on diversity, equity and inclusion as a condition for employment, promotion, admissions or student aid.“I am glad the Governor and the majority of the Kansas Legislature stand in support of academic freedom, intellectual diversity and freedom of speech on our college campuses. In recent years many colleges and universities have required students and faculty to pledge their allegiance to a politicized understanding of “diversity, equity and inclusion” as a condition for employment and promotion," Howe said. "Loyalty oaths and political litmus tests are not constitutional, and that is why I introduced and worked to pass this bill which is supported by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE).”This past session Representative Howe worked to fully fund K-12 education, and fought to ensure the formula for special education funding was not changed to the detriment of students and their families. “The state needs to fully fund special education as the state statute requires paying 92% of excess costs. Since the inception of special education reforms of the 1970’s, the federal government has never fulfilled their commitment of providing states up to 40% of funding. With the school finance formula set to expire in 2027, it is important to send elected officials to the Legislature who are willing to listen, learn and work to support our students, teachers and their families," Howe said.&nbsp;Representative Howe is known for his commitment to be home each night with his family. Every day during this session, Representative Howe drove from Salina to Topeka and back - traveling nearly 10,000 miles. “As a husband, and father of five children, it is important for me to be home each night. I am grateful for the love and support of my family as they allow me to serve. I look forward to running a positive campaign that listens, encourages civility, and promotes a stronger Salina and Saline County," Howe said.For more information about Steven Howe’s candidacy for State Representative, please visit his campaign website at <a href="http://www.stevenkhowe.com">www.stevenkhowe.com</a>. Howe can be reached at HoweKS71@gmail.com or 785-643-1606.

Republican Steven Howe files for state representative

<a href="mailto:%20melgares@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By PAT MELGARES </a>K-State Research and Extension news service

Sometimes, the simplest things can help families stay within their monthly budget, says K-State family resource management specialist Elizabeth Kiss.

There are, for certain, common ways to save a few bucks this summer: turn down the air conditioner a tad, shut off the lights when you leave a room, watch less TV, draw the curtains when the sun is shining in.

“But maybe there’s another way to think about saving money,” Kiss said.

“We’re coming into the longer days of summer, so think about what we can do outside that might not cost so much money, especially before it gets really hot. Maybe it’s just walking around the neighborhood, hanging out with your family outside in the yard. There are a lot of activities you can do instead of ‘doing something’ or ‘going somewhere’ that costs money.”

Listen to an interview by Jeff Wichman with Elizabeth Kiss on the weekly radio program,&nbsp;Sound Living

During the recent COVID pandemic, the ‘Stay-cation’ became more popular, as families were forced to stay home rather than travel for vacation. The concept caught on, and even as the world opened up, many saw value in planning activities around their home base.

“It’s a lot less stressful than traveling, and it’s a chance to unwind,” Kiss said. “Sometimes we schedule a vacation thinking we’ve got to go somewhere and we’ve got to do something and be active and that involves a lot of eating out and traveling. But there’s nothing wrong with staying around the house and doing some project, or just relaxing.”

Feeling time- or money-stretched is a sign that one needs to slow down and think about how they’re spending their time, Kiss said. It often can coincide with a boost to the family’s savings account, she adds.

“When I think about managing my family’s resources, it includes intentional, thoughtful choices that we all can make, but sometimes we get on auto pilot, ” Kiss said. “I go to the grocery store and buy the same thing every week. That’s an opportunity for me to intentionally review what I’m regularly buying and eating.”

“I read a book recently about rhythms – the rhythm of your day, the rhythm of your week and year. And then we have rituals, which are more like the daily things we do. It’s important to match the rhythms of your life to the rituals that you want in order to have a good life, and I think planning ahead can be very helpful to cut down on the stress in your life.”

Food costs always seem to rise to the forefront when thinking of saving money. Kiss says consumers should plan their family’s menu in order to cut the bite of rising costs at the grocery store.

“I just want to be clear: this is not all so serious that you can’t have any fun or you can’t have any treats. I think it gets back to intentionality of what it is you’re trying to accomplish.”

She adds that “finances are a process.”

“There are ebbs and flows in managing money. We have different needs and wants. We have different income levels over time and across our lives. And so, it’s not like you make a plan that lasts forever. You make a plan and then see how it works, and then adjust from there.”

More information on personal well-being, including family resource management, is also available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html">local extension offices in Kansas</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715617279980.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy KSRE&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy KSRE&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:%20melgares@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By PAT MELGARES </a>K-State Research and Extension news serviceSometimes, the simplest things can help families stay within their monthly budget, says K-State family resource management specialist Elizabeth Kiss.There are, for certain, common ways to save a few bucks this summer: turn down the air conditioner a tad, shut off the lights when you leave a room, watch less TV, draw the curtains when the sun is shining in.“But maybe there’s another way to think about saving money,” Kiss said.“We’re coming into the longer days of summer, so think about what we can do outside that might not cost so much money, especially before it gets really hot. Maybe it’s just walking around the neighborhood, hanging out with your family outside in the yard. There are a lot of activities you can do instead of ‘doing something’ or ‘going somewhere’ that costs money.”<h2>Listen to an interview by Jeff Wichman with Elizabeth Kiss on the weekly radio program,&nbsp;Sound Living</h2><div><iframe title="Libsyn Player" style="border: none" src="//html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/31230692/height/90/theme/custom/thumbnail/yes/direction/backward/render-playlist/no/custom-color/512888/" height="90" width="100%" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen></iframe></div>During the recent COVID pandemic, the ‘Stay-cation’ became more popular, as families were forced to stay home rather than travel for vacation. The concept caught on, and even as the world opened up, many saw value in planning activities around their home base.“It’s a lot less stressful than traveling, and it’s a chance to unwind,” Kiss said. “Sometimes we schedule a vacation thinking we’ve got to go somewhere and we’ve got to do something and be active and that involves a lot of eating out and traveling. But there’s nothing wrong with staying around the house and doing some project, or just relaxing.”Feeling time- or money-stretched is a sign that one needs to slow down and think about how they’re spending their time, Kiss said. It often can coincide with a boost to the family’s savings account, she adds.“When I think about managing my family’s resources, it includes intentional, thoughtful choices that we all can make, but sometimes we get on auto pilot, ” Kiss said. “I go to the grocery store and buy the same thing every week. That’s an opportunity for me to intentionally review what I’m regularly buying and eating.”“I read a book recently about rhythms – the rhythm of your day, the rhythm of your week and year. And then we have rituals, which are more like the daily things we do. It’s important to match the rhythms of your life to the rituals that you want in order to have a good life, and I think planning ahead can be very helpful to cut down on the stress in your life.”Food costs always seem to rise to the forefront when thinking of saving money. Kiss says consumers should plan their family’s menu in order to cut the bite of rising costs at the grocery store.“I just want to be clear: this is not all so serious that you can’t have any fun or you can’t have any treats. I think it gets back to intentionality of what it is you’re trying to accomplish.”She adds that “finances are a process.”“There are ebbs and flows in managing money. We have different needs and wants. We have different income levels over time and across our lives. And so, it’s not like you make a plan that lasts forever. You make a plan and then see how it works, and then adjust from there.”More information on personal well-being, including family resource management, is also available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html">local extension offices in Kansas</a>.

Back to simplicity — tips to save on the family’s budget this summer

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter&nbsp;

Hello and happy Monday everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine.

___________________________________________

On Sunday the Salina Liberty made the long trip to Nashville to battle the Kats and emerged victorious in a 50-30 victory

DeeTray Matthews led a staunch defensive effort with two interceptions aiding Salina in a big win, as the Liberty roll to 2-0 on the season

More locally today marks the official start of regional baseball and softball tournaments across the state of Kansas, and as of Monday morning 16 of our area teams are still alive and battling for tickets to their respective state tournaments.

You can catch two of those games involving three of our teams from Hoisington’s 3A softball regional today, as the Ellsworth Lady Bearcats square off with the Minneapolis Lady Lions at 3:00, and the Southeast of Saline Lady Trojans take on Russell 30 minutes after that.

Both games can be streamed with live audio and video on Salina Post 100% free courtesy of our friends at Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine, and Assaria Oil and Hardware

And speaking of Southeast of Saline softball, this year’s Lady Trojans are a special case, with a core of players, and a coach, who have been playing softball together for the better part of 15 years

This will be one last ride for the Salina Adrenaline squad, and to read more about their story head over and <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/59ff81a6-76fd-480a-9fa9-9719e38babb6">check out our full feature on Salina Post.</a>

That’s your sports update for today, but for even more great area sports content like this, check out Salina Post and stay tuned to KINA.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/t33PYgqtajY?si=eNY1MssXl-YadeI-" 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 TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter&nbsp;Hello and happy Monday everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>___________________________________________On Sunday the Salina Liberty made the long trip to Nashville to battle the Kats and emerged victorious in a 50-30 victoryDeeTray Matthews led a staunch defensive effort with two interceptions aiding Salina in a big win, as the Liberty roll to 2-0 on the season___________________________________________More locally today marks the official start of regional baseball and softball tournaments across the state of Kansas, and as of Monday morning 16 of our area teams are still alive and battling for tickets to their respective state tournaments.You can catch two of those games involving three of our teams from Hoisington’s 3A softball regional today, as the Ellsworth Lady Bearcats square off with the Minneapolis Lady Lions at 3:00, and the Southeast of Saline Lady Trojans take on Russell 30 minutes after that.Both games can be streamed with live audio and video on Salina Post 100% free courtesy of our friends at Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine, and Assaria Oil and Hardware___________________________________________And speaking of Southeast of Saline softball, this year’s Lady Trojans are a special case, with a core of players, and a coach, who have been playing softball together for the better part of 15 yearsThis will be one last ride for the Salina Adrenaline squad, and to read more about their story head over and <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/59ff81a6-76fd-480a-9fa9-9719e38babb6">check out our full feature on Salina Post.</a>___________________________________________That’s your sports update for today, but for even more great area sports content like this, check out Salina Post and stay tuned to KINA.___________________________________________

910 KINA Sports Headlines — May 13

By NATE KING Salina Post

An unknown suspect stole numerous steel chainsaws from an equipment rental business in the 500 block of N. Broadway Avenue in Salina on Saturday, May 11, causing hundreds of dollars in damages. 

Sometime between 3 a.m. and 5 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, an unknown suspect broke into Construction Rental Inc. and stole more than $3,000 worth of tools.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/b0b5c185-f412-40e6-a31d-931c2b40233e">CoCoRahs 24-hour rain totals</a>

"At 7:40 a.m. on Saturday, we [SPD] were dispatched to Construction Rental Inc.," said SPD Capt. James Feldman as an employee who came to the business and found the front door glass and three steel chainsaws valued at $3,000."

The total amount lost in the burglary was $3,000 in tools and $1,000 in damages. Feldman said SPD officers continue investigating the burglary and are working with the business to located any footage of the suspect. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592416874210.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NATE KING Salina PostAn unknown suspect stole numerous steel chainsaws from an equipment rental business in the 500 block of N. Broadway Avenue in Salina on Saturday, May 11, causing hundreds of dollars in damages. Sometime between 3 a.m. and 5 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, an unknown suspect broke into Construction Rental Inc. and stole more than $3,000 worth of tools.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/b0b5c185-f412-40e6-a31d-931c2b40233e">CoCoRahs 24-hour rain totals</a>"At 7:40 a.m. on Saturday, we [SPD] were dispatched to Construction Rental Inc.," said SPD Capt. James Feldman as an employee who came to the business and found the front door glass and three steel chainsaws valued at $3,000."The total amount lost in the burglary was $3,000 in tools and $1,000 in damages. Feldman said SPD officers continue investigating the burglary and are working with the business to located any footage of the suspect. Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.

Tools stolen from equipment rental business in Salina

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 05/13/2024 at 8:55 a.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715096554913.jpeg" alt="Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By 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 05/13/2024 at 8:55 a.m.Salina —&nbsp; 0.10 inchesConcordia — 0.18 inchesEllsworth — 0.38 inchesLindsborg —&nbsp; 0.22 inchesAbilene —&nbsp; 0.07 inchesClay Center — 0.22 inchesMinneapolis — 0.14 inchesTescott — 0.13 inchesMcPherson — 0.47 inchesGypsum — 0.15 inchesInman — 0.50 inchesPeabody — 0.56 inchesAssaria — 0.13 inches

CoCoRahs 24-hour rain totals

By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University

In November 2021, I wrote my second column for Insight Kansas as a guest contributor. I wrote on the prevalence of lead pipes in our state.

The number of lead pipes in Kansas is particularly high, comparatively, because lead mining was a major industry in southeast Kansas and southwest Missouri.

This issue is an important one to me as I grew up right outside of Flint, Michigan and the Flint Water Crisis had a major impact on my loved ones.

In that column I discussed a national study published by the American Medical Association that showed 65% of Kansas children (15 points higher than the national average) had elevated levels of lead in their blood. I also discussed the ability of the then-being-debated federal infrastructure bill to prevent exposing our children to even more lead.

Children are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects caused by lead exposure.

Per the National Resources Defense Council, Kansas has the third highest number of lead pipes per capita; an estimated 158,000 lead pipes are still in place across the state. These pipes carry potentially toxic water into our homes, businesses, and schools.

However, the US Environmental Protection Agency announced wonderful news this week for Kansas. The agency has allocated $28.6 million from the 2021 federal infrastructure bill to continue replacing our state’s lead water pipes.

This $28.6 million won’t replace all the remaining lead pipes in Kansas, but it will make a decent dent.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains that no amount of lead exposure is safe, so any amount of reduction in lead pipes is a win for Kansas’ kids

The EPA’s goal is to replace all remaining lead pipes nationwide by 2033.

As I stated in that previous column: if the past four years have shown us anything it’s that health crises are public problems and therefore require public solutions.

In these four years we have also learned that scientific truths are often dismissed for political reasons.

The 2021 bill that is providing the funding for the EPA to replace our state’s lead pipes was passed with bipartisan support. However, only Rep. Sharice Davids of Kansas’ Third Congressional District voted in support of the bill; the other five members of Kansas’ congressional delegation voted opposed.

It’s very unlikely that the Republican members of our congressional delegation were specifically opposed to the funds earmarked for lead pipe replacement.

However, as I wrote over two years ago, government’s ability to protect rights, promote equality, and prevent historic injustice is reliant on their willingness to use their governing power preventatively.

A lead crisis, like the one in Flint, Michigan, would be too late for Kansas’ kids. No amount of lead exposure is safe.

The $28.6 million in federal infrastructure funds is our chance to protect the health and wellbeing of Kansas’ kids. Additional allocations in future infrastructure bills could get us even closer to this goal.

With the current funding allocations for lead pipe replacement, the federal government strides towards safeguarding Kansas’ children from lead exposure. While not a complete solution, it signifies progress in a crucial battle for public health. As we continue this fight, let’s remember: every step counts in securing a safer future for our kids.

______________________________________________________________________

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699489540.png" alt="Alexandra Middlewood&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Middlewood&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University In November 2021, I wrote my second column for Insight Kansas as a guest contributor. I wrote on the prevalence of lead pipes in our state.The number of lead pipes in Kansas is particularly high, comparatively, because lead mining was a major industry in southeast Kansas and southwest Missouri.This issue is an important one to me as I grew up right outside of Flint, Michigan and the Flint Water Crisis had a major impact on my loved ones.In that column I discussed a national study published by the American Medical Association that showed 65% of Kansas children (15 points higher than the national average) had elevated levels of lead in their blood. I also discussed the ability of the then-being-debated federal infrastructure bill to prevent exposing our children to even more lead.Children are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects caused by lead exposure.Per the National Resources Defense Council, Kansas has the third highest number of lead pipes per capita; an estimated 158,000 lead pipes are still in place across the state. These pipes carry potentially toxic water into our homes, businesses, and schools.However, the US Environmental Protection Agency announced wonderful news this week for Kansas. The agency has allocated $28.6 million from the 2021 federal infrastructure bill to continue replacing our state’s lead water pipes.This $28.6 million won’t replace all the remaining lead pipes in Kansas, but it will make a decent dent.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains that no amount of lead exposure is safe, so any amount of reduction in lead pipes is a win for Kansas’ kidsThe EPA’s goal is to replace all remaining lead pipes nationwide by 2033.As I stated in that previous column: if the past four years have shown us anything it’s that health crises are public problems and therefore require public solutions.In these four years we have also learned that scientific truths are often dismissed for political reasons.The 2021 bill that is providing the funding for the EPA to replace our state’s lead pipes was passed with bipartisan support. However, only Rep. Sharice Davids of Kansas’ Third Congressional District voted in support of the bill; the other five members of Kansas’ congressional delegation voted opposed.It’s very unlikely that the Republican members of our congressional delegation were specifically opposed to the funds earmarked for lead pipe replacement.However, as I wrote over two years ago, government’s ability to protect rights, promote equality, and prevent historic injustice is reliant on their willingness to use their governing power preventatively.A lead crisis, like the one in Flint, Michigan, would be too late for Kansas’ kids. No amount of lead exposure is safe.The $28.6 million in federal infrastructure funds is our chance to protect the health and wellbeing of Kansas’ kids. Additional allocations in future infrastructure bills could get us even closer to this goal.With the current funding allocations for lead pipe replacement, the federal government strides towards safeguarding Kansas’ children from lead exposure. While not a complete solution, it signifies progress in a crucial battle for public health. As we continue this fight, let’s remember: every step counts in securing a safer future for our kids.______________________________________________________________________Alexandra Middlewood,.

Insight Kansas — A $28.6M lifeline: progress in Kansas’ lead pipe problem

On May 13, 1981, Pope John Paul II was shot and seriously wounded in St. Peter’s Square by Turkish assailant Mehmet Ali Agca (MEH’-met AH’-lee AH’-juh).

In 1607, English colonists arrived by ship at the site of what became the Jamestown settlement in Virginia (the colonists went ashore the next day).

In 1914, heavyweight boxing champion Joe Louis was born in Lafayette, Alabama.

In 1917, three shepherd children reported seeing a vision of the Virgin Mary near Fatima, Portugal; it was the first of six such apparitions that the children claimed to have witnessed.

In 1940, in his first speech as British prime minister, Winston Churchill told Parliament, “I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat.”

In 1972, 118 people died after fire broke out at the Sennichi Department Store in Osaka, Japan.

In 1973, in tennis’ first so-called “<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-open-billie-jean-king-equal-pay-88e2bda675e1869d175b7a60e2525369">Battle of the Sexes</a>,” Bobby Riggs defeated Margaret Court 6-2, 6-1 in Ramona, California. (Billie Jean King soundly defeated Riggs at the Houston Astrodome in September.)

In 1985, a confrontation between&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/philadelphia-health-government-and-politics-6f46e6c47445d5047ffca47b208b8a22">Philadelphia authorities and the radical group MOVE</a>&nbsp;ended as police dropped a bomb onto the group’s row house, igniting a fire that killed 11 people and destroyed 61 homes.

In 1994, President Bill Clinton nominated federal appeals&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/stephen-breyer">Judge Stephen G. Breyer</a>&nbsp;to the U.S. Supreme Court to replace retiring Justice Harry A. Blackmun; Breyer went on to win Senate confirmation.

In 2002, President George W. Bush announced that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin (POO’-tihn)&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-f337ec9a82954fd3af53bf2b716fb03b">would sign a treaty</a>&nbsp;to shrink their countries’ nuclear arsenals by two-thirds.

In 2012, Donald “Duck” Dunn, the bassist who helped create the gritty Memphis soul sound at Stax Records in the 1960s as part of the legendary group Booker T. and the MGs, died in Tokyo while on tour at age 70.

In 2016, the Obama administration issued a directive&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/relationships-general-news-parenting-united-states-government-f35a315f59ca4049a39ef5b8ba1aa99e">requiring public schools to permit transgender students to use bathrooms</a>&nbsp;and locker rooms consistent with their chosen gender identity.

In 2018, 69-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d88635085b394e83ae612744e84b9087">“Superman” actress Margot Kidder</a>&nbsp;was found dead by a friend near her Montana home in what was later ruled a suicide from a drug and alcohol overdose.

In 2019,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/b9a04d9ab2ce4276b2f6bdb6b39af585">Doris Day</a>, the sunny blond film star and singer who appeared in comedic roles opposite Rock Hudson and Cary Grant in the 1950s and 1960s, died at her California home at the age of 97.

In 2020, the Wisconsin Supreme Court<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-madison-wisconsin-coronavirus-pandemic-strikes-9f05a7331f7957721799b23ea381fead">&nbsp;struck down Gov. Tony Evers’ coronavirus stay-at-home order</a>, ruling that his administration had overstepped its authority by extending the order for another month.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715608491406.png" alt="Scene in St. Peters Square on May 13. 1981, when Pope John Paul II was shot. A gun can be seen at far left above the head of a man wearing sunglasses (AP Photo)" />
 <figcaption>Scene in St. Peters Square on May 13. 1981, when Pope John Paul II was shot. A gun can be seen at far left above the head of a man wearing sunglasses (AP Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Today in History:</h2>On May 13, 1981, Pope John Paul II was shot and seriously wounded in St. Peter’s Square by Turkish assailant Mehmet Ali Agca (MEH’-met AH’-lee AH’-juh).<h2>On this date:</h2>In 1607, English colonists arrived by ship at the site of what became the Jamestown settlement in Virginia (the colonists went ashore the next day).In 1914, heavyweight boxing champion Joe Louis was born in Lafayette, Alabama.In 1917, three shepherd children reported seeing a vision of the Virgin Mary near Fatima, Portugal; it was the first of six such apparitions that the children claimed to have witnessed.In 1940, in his first speech as British prime minister, Winston Churchill told Parliament, “I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat.”In 1972, 118 people died after fire broke out at the Sennichi Department Store in Osaka, Japan.In 1973, in tennis’ first so-called “<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-open-billie-jean-king-equal-pay-88e2bda675e1869d175b7a60e2525369">Battle of the Sexes</a>,” Bobby Riggs defeated Margaret Court 6-2, 6-1 in Ramona, California. (Billie Jean King soundly defeated Riggs at the Houston Astrodome in September.)In 1985, a confrontation between&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/philadelphia-health-government-and-politics-6f46e6c47445d5047ffca47b208b8a22">Philadelphia authorities and the radical group MOVE</a>&nbsp;ended as police dropped a bomb onto the group’s row house, igniting a fire that killed 11 people and destroyed 61 homes.In 1994, President Bill Clinton nominated federal appeals&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/stephen-breyer">Judge Stephen G. Breyer</a>&nbsp;to the U.S. Supreme Court to replace retiring Justice Harry A. Blackmun; Breyer went on to win Senate confirmation.In 2002, President George W. Bush announced that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin (POO’-tihn)&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-f337ec9a82954fd3af53bf2b716fb03b">would sign a treaty</a>&nbsp;to shrink their countries’ nuclear arsenals by two-thirds.In 2012, Donald “Duck” Dunn, the bassist who helped create the gritty Memphis soul sound at Stax Records in the 1960s as part of the legendary group Booker T. and the MGs, died in Tokyo while on tour at age 70.In 2016, the Obama administration issued a directive&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/relationships-general-news-parenting-united-states-government-f35a315f59ca4049a39ef5b8ba1aa99e">requiring public schools to permit transgender students to use bathrooms</a>&nbsp;and locker rooms consistent with their chosen gender identity.In 2018, 69-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d88635085b394e83ae612744e84b9087">“Superman” actress Margot Kidder</a>&nbsp;was found dead by a friend near her Montana home in what was later ruled a suicide from a drug and alcohol overdose.In 2019,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/b9a04d9ab2ce4276b2f6bdb6b39af585">Doris Day</a>, the sunny blond film star and singer who appeared in comedic roles opposite Rock Hudson and Cary Grant in the 1950s and 1960s, died at her California home at the age of 97.In 2020, the Wisconsin Supreme Court<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-madison-wisconsin-coronavirus-pandemic-strikes-9f05a7331f7957721799b23ea381fead">&nbsp;struck down Gov. Tony Evers’ coronavirus stay-at-home order</a>, ruling that his administration had overstepped its authority by extending the order for another month.

Today in History, May 13

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail.

All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Driving While Suspended

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Agg assault; w/ deadly weapon and Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation and Failure to Appear

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail.All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715604366043.png" alt="Gamache, Bryce Lynn" />
 <figcaption>Gamache, Bryce Lynn</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Gamache, Bryce LynnREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715604408919.png" alt="Johnson, Vondel Shamar" />
 <figcaption>Johnson, Vondel Shamar</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Johnson, Vondel ShamarREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Driving While Suspended<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715604457923.png" alt="Marlow, Cole Denison" />
 <figcaption>Marlow, Cole Denison</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Marlow, Cole DenisonREQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Agg assault; w/ deadly weapon and Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715604511283.png" alt="McMillan, Michaela Danae" />
 <figcaption>McMillan, Michaela Danae</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;McMillan, Michaela DanaeREQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation and Failure to AppearNAME:REQUESTED CHARGE(S):NAME:REQUESTED CHARGE(S):NAME:REQUESTED CHARGE(S):NAME:REQUESTED CHARGE(S):NAME:REQUESTED CHARGE(S):NAME:REQUESTED CHARGE(S):

Saline County Jail Bookings, May 13

The Salina Women's Fair, presented by Marshall Motors and sponsored by B&amp;K Prescription Shop, Mid America Productions, and 785 Med Spa, took place on May 9 at the Tony's Pizza Event Center, 800 The Midway in Salina. More than 300 community members, both men and women stopped by and participated in giveaways, received door prizes, and listened to LIVE entertainment.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715867700503.jpeg" alt="Roma Zachary, pictured in blue, accepts a Nutrl drink while at Women's Fair. Photo by Nate King" />
 <figcaption>Roma Zachary, pictured in blue, accepts a Nutrl drink while at Women's Fair. Photo by Nate King</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe Salina Women's Fair, presented by Marshall Motors and sponsored by B&amp;K Prescription Shop, Mid America Productions, and 785 Med Spa, took place on May 9 at the Tony's Pizza Event Center, 800 The Midway in Salina. More than 300 community members, both men and women stopped by and participated in giveaways, received door prizes, and listened to LIVE entertainment.&nbsp; See photos below<h2>2024 Salina Women's Fair</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715867772299.jpeg" alt="Event attendees had the chance to take a photo behind a glitzy frame. Salina Women's Fair held May 9, 2024.&nbsp;Photo Courtesy Lisa McDowell" />
 <figcaption>Event attendees had the chance to take a photo behind a glitzy frame. Salina Women's Fair held May 9, 2024.&nbsp;Photo Courtesy Lisa McDowell</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715867840993.jpeg" alt="Marshall Motors was one of the many vendors at 2024 Women's Fair.Photo Courtesy Lisa McDowell" />
 <figcaption>Marshall Motors was one of the many vendors at 2024 Women's Fair.Photo Courtesy Lisa McDowell</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715867925589.jpeg" alt="Riddle's Jewelry, a vendor at the Salina Women's Fair held May 9, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Riddle's Jewelry, a vendor at the Salina Women's Fair held May 9, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715868580983.jpeg" alt="Ghostown Revival Brent Magathen, on guitar, and Chris Cadle, on vocals, perform an acoustic set at the Salina Women's Fair held May 9, 2024.&nbsp;Image Courtesy Scott Walker" />
 <figcaption>Ghostown Revival Brent Magathen, on guitar, and Chris Cadle, on vocals, perform an acoustic set at the Salina Women's Fair held May 9, 2024.&nbsp;Image Courtesy Scott Walker</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715868221887.jpeg" alt="Red Fern Booksellers Owner Harley Hamilton, pictured seated left, speaks with fair attendees at the Salina Women's Fair held May 9, 2024. Photo by Nate King" />
 <figcaption>Red Fern Booksellers Owner Harley Hamilton, pictured seated left, speaks with fair attendees at the Salina Women's Fair held May 9, 2024. Photo by Nate King</figcaption>
 </figure>

📸 2024 Salina Women's Fair

To participate in the study sessions and meetings, citizens will need to use the Zoom link -&nbsp;<a href="https://us02web.zcom.us/i/89275984587" target="_blank">https://us02web.zcom.us/i/89275984587</a>

The Zoom meeting can also be accessed by phone at 1-346-248-7799.

Enter Meeting ID: 892 7598 4587 when prompted If citizens wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the Mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens must raise their hand so that the meeting host can allow them to Citizens can also send written comments or questions to City Commissioners by visiting the City of Salina's website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salina-ks.gov/" target="_blank">www.salina-ks.gov</a>&nbsp;and using the *Email City Commission" icon on the home page.

The following have been identified as topics of study and discussion:

Study sessions and city commission meetings will take place in–person in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street, and via Zoom until further notice. Meetings also can be viewed at the City of Salina YouTube channel,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.

To participate via Zoom, citizens will need to use the following link:&nbsp;<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587</a>.

The meeting also can be accessed by phone at 1-346-248-7799. Enter Meeting ID:892 7598 4587 when prompted.

The regular meeting is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m.

a. Mayor request staff confirmation that the Kansas Open Meeting Act required notice has been properly provided.

2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND MOMENT OF SILENCE

(3.1) Recognition of the month of May, 2024, as Mental Health Month. Cristina Nieto, Wellness Navigator Coordinator with Central Kansas Mental Health Center, will read the proclamation.

(3.2) Recognition of the week of May 12 through May 18, 2024, as Police Week. CJ Wise, Chief of the Salina Police Department, will read the proclamation.

(3.3) Recognition of the week of May 19 through May 25, 2024, as EMS Week. Shane Pearson, Deputy Chief of the Salina Fire Department and Chief of Emergency Medical Services, will read the proclamation.

(3.4) Recognition of the week of May 19 through May 25, 2024, as National Public Works Week. Autumn Miller, General Services Administrator, will read the proclamation.

(3.5) Recognition of the month of June, 2024, as Pride Month. Raiden Gonzales, Secretary for the Smoky Hill Equality Coalition, will read the proclamation.

4. PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ITEMS SCHEDULED FOR A CERTAIN TIME

(5.1) Approve the minutes of the meeting of April 22, 2024.

(5.2) Award the bid for demolition of a dangerous structure at 619 S. Santa Fe Avenue to Excel Dirt and Excavating.

(5.3) Approve Resolution No. 24-8204 requesting to apply for the 2024-2025 Emergency Solutions Grant.

(5.4) Award the bid for Centennial Road and Arnold Avenue improvements to T&amp;R Construction, Inc.

(5.5) Approve a proposed Development Agreement with Southlands Development, LLC and authorize the Mayor to sign the Agreement.

(5.6) Approve Resolutions No. 24-8211 and No. 24-8212, repealing and replacing Resolutions No. 24-8201 and No. 24-8202, respectively.

(6.1) Approve Resolution No. 24-8207, authorizing the offering for public sale of General Obligation Bonds Series 2024-A.

(6.2) Authorize the City Manager to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the City and Saline County regarding funding of a study of downtown public facilities.

(6.3) Authorize the City Manager to sign an Agreement relating to the sale of South Park property by the City of Salina and USD 305.

(6.4) Approve Resolutions No. 24-8208 adopting guidelines for a Community Proclamation Limited Forum and No. 24-8209 amending the City Commission Agenda General Order of Business/Public Participation Policy document.

(6.5) Approve Resolution No. 24-8205, a Resolution of Advisability for Special Assessments at Overlook Estates.

(6.6) Approve Ordinance No. 24-11205 amending the City of Salina Municipal Code to allow for towing of vehicles from City lots marked with temporary “No Parking” signs.

(6.7) Approve Resolution No. 24-8210 updating fees for the use of Dean Evans Stadium, Pestinger Family Stadium, and Bill Burke Park.

(7.1) Approve Resolution No. 24-8206 in support of South View Estates’ Kansas Housing Investor Tax Credit (KHITC) application.

(10.1) Request for Executive Session – Attorney/Client Privileged

(10.1a) I move the City Commission recess into executive session for __ minutes to discuss with legal counsel confidential legal considerations relating to the subjects of 1) points of negotiation with Salina Destination Development, LLC, regarding Phase II of the City’s multi-family housing project and 2) the status of the former Ambassador Hotel property based upon the need for consultation with an attorney for the public body which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship pursuant to K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708725680505.jpeg" alt="Salina City Commission" />
 <figcaption>Salina City Commission</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POST<h2>Study Session Meeting</h2>Time: 3:00 p.m.To participate in the study sessions and meetings, citizens will need to use the Zoom link -&nbsp;<a href="https://us02web.zcom.us/i/89275984587" target="_blank">https://us02web.zcom.us/i/89275984587</a>The Zoom meeting can also be accessed by phone at 1-346-248-7799.Enter Meeting ID: 892 7598 4587 when prompted If citizens wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the Mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens must raise their hand so that the meeting host can allow them to Citizens can also send written comments or questions to City Commissioners by visiting the City of Salina's website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salina-ks.gov/" target="_blank">www.salina-ks.gov</a>&nbsp;and using the *Email City Commission" icon on the home page.The following have been identified as topics of study and discussion:Salina 2020 Shade Proposal<h2>About the regular Meeting</h2>Study sessions and city commission meetings will take place in–person in room 107 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street, and via Zoom until further notice. Meetings also can be viewed at the City of Salina YouTube channel,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.To participate via Zoom, citizens will need to use the following link:&nbsp;<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587</a>.The meeting also can be accessed by phone at 1-346-248-7799. Enter Meeting ID:892 7598 4587 when prompted.The regular meeting is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m.<h2>Regular Meeting Agenda May 13</h2>CALL TO ORDERa. Mayor request staff confirmation that the Kansas Open Meeting Act required notice has been properly provided.b. Roll call.2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND MOMENT OF SILENCE3. AWARDS AND PROCLAMATIONS(3.1) Recognition of the month of May, 2024, as Mental Health Month. Cristina Nieto, Wellness Navigator Coordinator with Central Kansas Mental Health Center, will read the proclamation.(3.2) Recognition of the week of May 12 through May 18, 2024, as Police Week. CJ Wise, Chief of the Salina Police Department, will read the proclamation.(3.3) Recognition of the week of May 19 through May 25, 2024, as EMS Week. Shane Pearson, Deputy Chief of the Salina Fire Department and Chief of Emergency Medical Services, will read the proclamation.(3.4) Recognition of the week of May 19 through May 25, 2024, as National Public Works Week. Autumn Miller, General Services Administrator, will read the proclamation.(3.5) Recognition of the month of June, 2024, as Pride Month. Raiden Gonzales, Secretary for the Smoky Hill Equality Coalition, will read the proclamation.4. PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ITEMS SCHEDULED FOR A CERTAIN TIME5. CONSENT AGENDA(5.1) Approve the minutes of the meeting of April 22, 2024.(5.2) Award the bid for demolition of a dangerous structure at 619 S. Santa Fe Avenue to Excel Dirt and Excavating.(5.3) Approve Resolution No. 24-8204 requesting to apply for the 2024-2025 Emergency Solutions Grant.(5.4) Award the bid for Centennial Road and Arnold Avenue improvements to T&amp;R Construction, Inc.(5.5) Approve a proposed Development Agreement with Southlands Development, LLC and authorize the Mayor to sign the Agreement.(5.6) Approve Resolutions No. 24-8211 and No. 24-8212, repealing and replacing Resolutions No. 24-8201 and No. 24-8202, respectively.6. ADMINISTRATION(6.1) Approve Resolution No. 24-8207, authorizing the offering for public sale of General Obligation Bonds Series 2024-A.(6.2) Authorize the City Manager to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the City and Saline County regarding funding of a study of downtown public facilities.(6.3) Authorize the City Manager to sign an Agreement relating to the sale of South Park property by the City of Salina and USD 305.(6.4) Approve Resolutions No. 24-8208 adopting guidelines for a Community Proclamation Limited Forum and No. 24-8209 amending the City Commission Agenda General Order of Business/Public Participation Policy document.(6.5) Approve Resolution No. 24-8205, a Resolution of Advisability for Special Assessments at Overlook Estates.(6.6) Approve Ordinance No. 24-11205 amending the City of Salina Municipal Code to allow for towing of vehicles from City lots marked with temporary “No Parking” signs.(6.7) Approve Resolution No. 24-8210 updating fees for the use of Dean Evans Stadium, Pestinger Family Stadium, and Bill Burke Park.7. DEVELOPMENT BUSINESS(7.1) Approve Resolution No. 24-8206 in support of South View Estates’ Kansas Housing Investor Tax Credit (KHITC) application.8. OTHER BUSINESS9. CITIZENS FORUM10. EXECUTIVE SESSION(10.1) Request for Executive Session – Attorney/Client Privileged(10.1a) I move the City Commission recess into executive session for __ minutes to discuss with legal counsel confidential legal considerations relating to the subjects of 1) points of negotiation with Salina Destination Development, LLC, regarding Phase II of the City’s multi-family housing project and 2) the status of the former Ambassador Hotel property based upon the need for consultation with an attorney for the public body which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship pursuant to K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2).(10.1b) Possible action to follow.11. ADJOURNMENT

Dangerous structure demo bid, road improvements, changes to city parking code — Salina City Commission Agenda 

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

This year’s regional and state softball tournaments will see one final chapter written for the Southeast of Saline softball team, but unlike most high school sports stories, this one didn’t begin four years ago.

Every team has its own story to tell, but very few are as long and winding as that of this year’s Lady Trojans, and fewer still pose the possibility of a true fairytale ending.

SES enters this year’s regional bracket as a 1-seed, 19-3 overall, without a single loss to a fellow 3A opponent.

The Lady Trojans have looked dominant on the field, outscoring their opponents 232-37, posting seven shutouts, and rolling through their league with a perfect 10-0 record to capture yet another NCAA title.

While many would consider Southeast to be a strong contender for the 3A crown, this team's story is about so much more than that, and to find its beginning, we have to go back almost two decades.

Pesha Ptacek discovered her love of softball at a young age and wasted no time passing that love on to her oldest daughter Brielle.

“As soon as I had my sonogram and they told me I was having a girl one of my very first thoughts was ‘I need to start a softball team,’” Ptacek recounts. “I wanted her to have an experience similar to what I had growing up.”

Little Brielle spent many of her early days sitting inside of a bucket at Southeast of Saline practice, watching and learning from the team her mom coached.

By the time Brielle was three years old, barely big enough to hold a bat, Coach Ptacek got her wish, coaching Brielle and her friends on a YMCA youth softball team.

What no one could have foreseen was that this team of tiny toddlers, consisting of Lexi Jacobson, Maddie Harris, Brookelyn Adams, Chase Gilpin, Carly Commerford, and Savannah Sutton, would eventually form the core of one of the most formidable softball juggernauts in the state of Kansas.

In the coming years, more mainstays like Bryna Baird, Jayci Burgardt, Aba Pearson, and Adyson Rohr would join the team, and with that, the Salina Adrenaline was born.

When the girls were seven years old, Coach Ptacek took them to their first softball tournament, to try their hand against other teams in the area.

So how did a group of some of the most fearsome future pitchers and hitters in Kansas fare at their first competition?

“I was joking with the girls about this the other day but they had no idea how awful they were in the beginning,” Ptacek said. “At our first-ever tournament, we got run-ruled three times and came straight home.”

Not disheartened in the slightest, Coach Ptacek cooked up a scheme to help her team take a jump and better prepare them for what was to come.

“My philosophy was to pick one thing each season that nobody else was doing to help get us ahead,” she said. “In our first season that was baserunning, in the second season, we started bunting, and from there we worked on fake bunts and slap hits. We wanted to be the first to learn these things to cause frustration and get ahead of the curve.”

In another innovative move, Ptacek and her fellow coaches allowed those interested in pitching to start learning the art long before they would be able to pitch in a real game, throwing balls of rolled-up socks against the wall to practice form and footwork.

All of this worked like a charm, and by the time the team entered middle school, a squad that didn’t win a single game in their first local tournament, was competing and winning larger tournaments across the region.

“Our growth was so gradual that I can’t tell you when we got good,” Ptacek said. “We really weren’t good when we started but we grew to be alright and eventually we grew to be really good.”

As the team steadily improved on the field, something far more important had happened behind the scenes — this group of young girls, and their coach, brought together by their love of a simple game, was no longer just a team, they had become a family.

Every triumphant victory, every heartbreaking defeat, every shattered pair of bright pink sunglasses, skinned knee, and scare of a deceased umpire who was, in actuality, just asleep, brought this group closer together.

“I have learned more from them than they’ve learned from me,” Ptacek said. “I’m a better coach because I got to start from the beginning with them. I’m very aware that there are things I did right and things I did wrong but we all had the luxury of growing together.”

Ptacek, who took a hiatus as head softball coach at SES, planned to hand the gift of these girls to some lucky coach when they entered their freshman year.&nbsp;

That was the plan, but as fate would have it, she would be the lucky one, resuming her post at Southeast before a single member of the Adrenaline entered ninth grade.

“I was excited to get this group at this level,” she said. “We knew they were talented kiddos, but I think the pressure to perform right away was very high.”

In their first two years playing together at the high school level, the team finished 16-6, with two losses in the regional semifinals.

Last year, SES finally broke through, finishing 22-4 and punching a ticket to state where they won their quarterfinal matchup, and finished fourth in Class 3A.

Despite all the success that this team and many of its individuals found, not one of its seven seniors will move on to play at the next level, and with the Adrenaline choosing to forego a final summer season, this will be one last ride in every sense of the word.

While that finality could create unwanted pressure, the Lady Trojan dugout had found peace knowing that no matter what happens in the coming weeks, the team has already achieved what it set out to do.

“This group is special because we’ve done all this together,” Ptacek said. “The goal was never college scholarships, the goal was to find girls who love the game of softball and want to pass that love on.”

Every family eventually sees its members leave the nest to pursue their own dreams, but by blood or by water, families like this one, founded not only on a common love of the game but of one another, tend to stand the test of time.

“These girls have been like a second group of daughters to me,” Ptacek said. “While I’m thankful for the time I’ve gotten to spend with my own daughter, I’m also grateful to all the other parents for the time I’ve gotten to spend with theirs. I’m so thankful that they trusted me to grow with them and the sacrifices they’ve made is not lost on me. Experiences like this tend to tie people together, but I will deeply miss the time that I’ve gotten spent with these girls.”

Southeast of Saline will open postseason play this Monday when they take on Russell in the quarterfinal round of this year’s Hoisington regional.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715526498695.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostThis year’s regional and state softball tournaments will see one final chapter written for the Southeast of Saline softball team, but unlike most high school sports stories, this one didn’t begin four years ago.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>Every team has its own story to tell, but very few are as long and winding as that of this year’s Lady Trojans, and fewer still pose the possibility of a true fairytale ending.SES enters this year’s regional bracket as a 1-seed, 19-3 overall, without a single loss to a fellow 3A opponent.The Lady Trojans have looked dominant on the field, outscoring their opponents 232-37, posting seven shutouts, and rolling through their league with a perfect 10-0 record to capture yet another NCAA title.While many would consider Southeast to be a strong contender for the 3A crown, this team's story is about so much more than that, and to find its beginning, we have to go back almost two decades.Pesha Ptacek discovered her love of softball at a young age and wasted no time passing that love on to her oldest daughter Brielle.“As soon as I had my sonogram and they told me I was having a girl one of my very first thoughts was ‘I need to start a softball team,’” Ptacek recounts. “I wanted her to have an experience similar to what I had growing up.”Little Brielle spent many of her early days sitting inside of a bucket at Southeast of Saline practice, watching and learning from the team her mom coached.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715526372256.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By the time Brielle was three years old, barely big enough to hold a bat, Coach Ptacek got her wish, coaching Brielle and her friends on a YMCA youth softball team.What no one could have foreseen was that this team of tiny toddlers, consisting of Lexi Jacobson, Maddie Harris, Brookelyn Adams, Chase Gilpin, Carly Commerford, and Savannah Sutton, would eventually form the core of one of the most formidable softball juggernauts in the state of Kansas.In the coming years, more mainstays like Bryna Baird, Jayci Burgardt, Aba Pearson, and Adyson Rohr would join the team, and with that, the Salina Adrenaline was born.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715525537805.jpeg" alt="The original YMCA/Knights of Columbus softball team flexes before a game" />
 <figcaption>The original YMCA/Knights of Columbus softball team flexes before a game</figcaption>
 </figure>When the girls were seven years old, Coach Ptacek took them to their first softball tournament, to try their hand against other teams in the area.So how did a group of some of the most fearsome future pitchers and hitters in Kansas fare at their first competition?It turns out, not well.“I was joking with the girls about this the other day but they had no idea how awful they were in the beginning,” Ptacek said. “At our first-ever tournament, we got run-ruled three times and came straight home.”Not disheartened in the slightest, Coach Ptacek cooked up a scheme to help her team take a jump and better prepare them for what was to come.“My philosophy was to pick one thing each season that nobody else was doing to help get us ahead,” she said. “In our first season that was baserunning, in the second season, we started bunting, and from there we worked on fake bunts and slap hits. We wanted to be the first to learn these things to cause frustration and get ahead of the curve.”In another innovative move, Ptacek and her fellow coaches allowed those interested in pitching to start learning the art long before they would be able to pitch in a real game, throwing balls of rolled-up socks against the wall to practice form and footwork.All of this worked like a charm, and by the time the team entered middle school, a squad that didn’t win a single game in their first local tournament, was competing and winning larger tournaments across the region.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715525600688.jpeg" alt="The Salina Adrenaline proudly holds up a banner after a regional tournament victory." />
 <figcaption>The Salina Adrenaline proudly holds up a banner after a regional tournament victory.</figcaption>
 </figure>“Our growth was so gradual that I can’t tell you when we got good,” Ptacek said. “We really weren’t good when we started but we grew to be alright and eventually we grew to be really good.”As the team steadily improved on the field, something far more important had happened behind the scenes — this group of young girls, and their coach, brought together by their love of a simple game, was no longer just a team, they had become a family.Every triumphant victory, every heartbreaking defeat, every shattered pair of bright pink sunglasses, skinned knee, and scare of a deceased umpire who was, in actuality, just asleep, brought this group closer together.“I have learned more from them than they’ve learned from me,” Ptacek said. “I’m a better coach because I got to start from the beginning with them. I’m very aware that there are things I did right and things I did wrong but we all had the luxury of growing together.”Ptacek, who took a hiatus as head softball coach at SES, planned to hand the gift of these girls to some lucky coach when they entered their freshman year.&nbsp;That was the plan, but as fate would have it, she would be the lucky one, resuming her post at Southeast before a single member of the Adrenaline entered ninth grade.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715525718852.jpeg" alt="Members of the Salina Adrenaline and Southeast of Saline softball teams pose for a photo together" />
 <figcaption>Members of the Salina Adrenaline and Southeast of Saline softball teams pose for a photo together</figcaption>
 </figure>“I was excited to get this group at this level,” she said. “We knew they were talented kiddos, but I think the pressure to perform right away was very high.”In their first two years playing together at the high school level, the team finished 16-6, with two losses in the regional semifinals.Last year, SES finally broke through, finishing 22-4 and punching a ticket to state where they won their quarterfinal matchup, and finished fourth in Class 3A.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715525905538.jpeg" alt="A team photo of the 2023 Lady Trojans, complete with the full core of the Salina Adrenaline" />
 <figcaption>A team photo of the 2023 Lady Trojans, complete with the full core of the Salina Adrenaline</figcaption>
 </figure>Despite all the success that this team and many of its individuals found, not one of its seven seniors will move on to play at the next level, and with the Adrenaline choosing to forego a final summer season, this will be one last ride in every sense of the word.While that finality could create unwanted pressure, the Lady Trojan dugout had found peace knowing that no matter what happens in the coming weeks, the team has already achieved what it set out to do.“This group is special because we’ve done all this together,” Ptacek said. “The goal was never college scholarships, the goal was to find girls who love the game of softball and want to pass that love on.”Every family eventually sees its members leave the nest to pursue their own dreams, but by blood or by water, families like this one, founded not only on a common love of the game but of one another, tend to stand the test of time.“These girls have been like a second group of daughters to me,” Ptacek said. “While I’m thankful for the time I’ve gotten to spend with my own daughter, I’m also grateful to all the other parents for the time I’ve gotten to spend with theirs. I’m so thankful that they trusted me to grow with them and the sacrifices they’ve made is not lost on me. Experiences like this tend to tie people together, but I will deeply miss the time that I’ve gotten spent with these girls.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715525509172.jpeg" alt="The Salina Adrenaline, adorned with tournament medals, lifts Coach Ptacek after another successful outing" />
 <figcaption>The Salina Adrenaline, adorned with tournament medals, lifts Coach Ptacek after another successful outing</figcaption>
 </figure>Southeast of Saline will open postseason play this Monday when they take on Russell in the quarterfinal round of this year’s Hoisington regional.

Pure Adrenaline — A Southeast Softball Story

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., was in Hays Friday to announce a federal grant for Midwest Energy.

An $8.1 million grant will pay to replace 68 miles of legacy bare steel natural gas pipeline in northern Barton County, southern Russell County and western Ellsworth County with a modern polyethylene pipeline.

The older steel pipe has been slowly deteriorating as it has been exposed to the elements, staff said.

According to Midwest Energy staff, the pipeline replacement will take at least three years.

See the map below for the areas that will be affected.

Midwest Energy also received a $580,000 grant, which was previously announced, to purchase 20 handheld laser leak detectors and four all-terrain vehicles&nbsp;to expedite gas leak surveying in rural areas.

Midwest Energy workers once walked lines to check for leaks. The&nbsp;all-terrain vehicles, demonstrated Friday, allow employees to test lines at a pace of about three to four miles per hour.

These are the first federal grants of their kind that Midwest Energy has received for natural gas infrastructure improvement in at least 20 years.

Last fall, Midwest Energy was awarded $97 million in federal funds to upgrade substations and rebuild 150 miles of transmission lines across seven western Kansas counties.

"On behalf of Sen. Marshall, we are happy to help navigate this and other circumstances where Kansans are looking for grants and federal assistance that exists," Moran said.

He said this project is about efficiency and well-use of taxpayer dollars.&nbsp;

Moran said rural Kansas does not always have the resources to provide the services its residents need.

"A lot of the joy or satisfaction comes from helping a community or a business grow and find success in the place we all call home," Moran said. "This is just one more step in the good things that are happening in Kansas."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715376715762.jpeg" alt="A Midwest Energy employee releases a small amount of natural gas to demonstrate a natural gas testing rig on an all-terrain vehicle. The new system greatly increases the speed at which workers can search for gas leaks in rural areas. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>A Midwest Energy employee releases a small amount of natural gas to demonstrate a natural gas testing rig on an all-terrain vehicle. The new system greatly increases the speed at which workers can search for gas leaks in rural areas. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostSen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., was in Hays Friday to announce a federal grant for Midwest Energy.An $8.1 million grant will pay to replace 68 miles of legacy bare steel natural gas pipeline in northern Barton County, southern Russell County and western Ellsworth County with a modern polyethylene pipeline.The older steel pipe has been slowly deteriorating as it has been exposed to the elements, staff said.According to Midwest Energy staff, the pipeline replacement will take at least three years.See the map below for the areas that will be affected.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715376959811.jpeg" alt="A map shows where Midwest Energy plans to replace aging gas lines. " />
 <figcaption>A map shows where Midwest Energy plans to replace aging gas lines. </figcaption>
 </figure>Midwest Energy also received a $580,000 grant, which was previously announced, to purchase 20 handheld laser leak detectors and four all-terrain vehicles&nbsp;to expedite gas leak surveying in rural areas.Midwest Energy workers once walked lines to check for leaks. The&nbsp;all-terrain vehicles, demonstrated Friday, allow employees to test lines at a pace of about three to four miles per hour.These are the first federal grants of their kind that Midwest Energy has received for natural gas infrastructure improvement in at least 20 years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715377074911.jpeg" alt="Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., at the announcement of an $8.1 million federal grant award to Midwest Energy for the replacement of natural gas lines. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., at the announcement of an $8.1 million federal grant award to Midwest Energy for the replacement of natural gas lines. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>Last fall, Midwest Energy was awarded $97 million in federal funds to upgrade substations and rebuild 150 miles of transmission lines across seven western Kansas counties."On behalf of Sen. Marshall, we are happy to help navigate this and other circumstances where Kansans are looking for grants and federal assistance that exists," Moran said.He said this project is about efficiency and well-use of taxpayer dollars.&nbsp;Moran said rural Kansas does not always have the resources to provide the services its residents need."A lot of the joy or satisfaction comes from helping a community or a business grow and find success in the place we all call home," Moran said. "This is just one more step in the good things that are happening in Kansas."

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