If you're someone just like me, anytime a person talks about growing up in Salina you might just sigh at the fact that out of all the places you could've grown up it had to be in Salina, Kansas. Now if you are not like me, maybe when you hear about Salina you feel a heart warming sensation and relive all the good memories you have inherited here. So whether or not you are a sigher like me or a heart warmed Salina citizen, this town really does have some tell tales to know you grew up in the SK.
1. The second week of June calls for the Smoky Hill River Festival
When the Riverfest comes to town, everyone's excitement raises to a 11 out of 10. Be ready to buy over priced food ( which is way worth it), look at art, listen to lots of music, and get very hot and sun burnt (believe me it happens to me every year).
2. A week before school starts, let's go to the Fair!
I think everyone that goes to our fair will tell you it's over priced, but when nothing else ever happens in town most of us are willing to splurge a little to ride the Ferris Wheel, watch the Demolition Derby, and maybe even pet a few animals.
3. Cozy Inn Burgers: Smells bad, but tastes way better
You know you have accidentally walked in to Cozy's to grab a few burgers, stayed inside for far too long. Which results in you smelling like you've just worked out for hours; but in the end you scarf down the burgers like there is no tomorrow.
4. You have seen or perform in a good show at The Stiefel Theatre from time to time
If you've ever been in any form of a music class you've either got to grace the stage with your class, or had the chance to win tickets and go to a show yourself
5. South vs Central Rivalry
Even though Salina has four high schools, when sports come into the picture you know you have to attend the South vs Central or you might get shunned by your peers.
6. If you're shopping for clothes, better go somewhere else
If you're wanting name brand clothes, and a big selection of stores; Salina's mall is not the place for that. Don't worry Wichita isn't too far away.
7. Driving around town becomes a "hangout"
When there is nothing to do, a common thing is to to drive around. There has been countless times my friends and I have drove out of town, without even noticing.
8. Sitting on big rocks is always fun, right?
Whether you have come to Indian Rock to explore the many trails, see a show, watch the sunset, or talk out your problems with a friend for hours; you know you have spent way too much time here.
9. The awkward Middle School years need to be spent somewhere; what's better than the skating rink?
The place to go when you wanted to hang out with your "boyfriend" or "girlfriend" and awkwardly skate to a love song.
10. Half Price Apps are the best thing to happen after 9 o'clock
Eating your weight in Cheese Sticks and Chicken Wings, while gossiping about what's happening in your friends' lives makes for a good Applebee's hang out.
11. The coffee shops are always a must
One of my favorite places in all of Salina is Ad Astra! Whether i'm going there to do some school work , reading a book, or drinking an Iced Chai Latte while searching to find a new comic book (Marvel only). The atmosphere of this place is one for the books (get it a pun).
12. Last, but certainly not least, wherever you stand in the love/hate relationship of Salina; you know the SK will always be your home.
