Selina, Kansas – Pedaling from Lindsborg, KS to Abilene, KS was furnace hot. The heat index was 110 and I made a quick stop for a Fla-vor-ice. Sitting outside a small roadside market a man pulled up on his motorcycle and said. “You’re skinnier, but mine is easier.”
As I coasted into Selina, KS the artwork and appreciation for history are definitely a part of the fabric of this community.
The silo paintings by Guido van Helten from Australia, are particularly stunning. Known as “Mural at the Mill” the project encompasses four sides of the H.D. Lee Flour Mill located on the far north side of North Santa Fe Avenue.
Van Helten’s work is part of the Salina Kansas Project which began in October 2021.
According to an article by Charles Rankin in the Salina Journal, the Salina Kanvas Project was designed to bolster business opportunities.
Van Helten’s piece in particular was inspired by the family atmosphere in Salina. The image is a collage of photos taken by a child of friends playing “Ring around the Rosie.”
There are other images on Santa Fe Avenue as well, along with a recognized dedication to preserve historic buildings.
The building/business that hooked me was the automotive garage overlooking the mill. Jay was a 15-year employee and he dove into his collection to donate the Kansas license plate to the tour. “The reason half of it is rusted is because this was used as a shingle on a roof,” he said.
Tidbits from the tour:
There have been some inspiring photos leading up to July 4th.
“Have I not commanded you? … Be strong and courageous. … Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
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The 2024 Amazing Ride for Alzheimer’s is raises money every year for music programming for seniors at Cedar Community, a 501c3, so all donations are tax-deductible.
Donate via the secure website through Cedar Community. Donations should be marked “Amazing Ride 2024.” Click HERE to make a secure online donation.
Checks may be made payable to “Cedar Community” with “Judy Bike Ride” in the memo line and mailed to 113 Cedar Ridge Dr., West Bend, WI 53095
Be sure to include the Federal Tax ID Number for the Foundation: 39-1249432
You may also find a downloadable donation form HERE.
Your latest post is my favorite, especially the artwork on the silos…. keep posting ! ! !