Numerous art forms from watercolor paintings to pen ink and pottery were on display during the Geary Cloud County Community College Art Show on Thursday. Show Director Suzette Ghent said the history of the annual event dated back to 2015.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Items were produced by students, staff, faculty and alumni.&nbsp;

GCCC Art Show projects were on display to the public

On April 3rd, the Confidence in Kansas Public Education Task Force announced 100 Kansas schools that have been named recipients of the 2024 Challenge Awards. Herington Elementary was named a 2024 recipient. The Challenge Awards recognize schools for outstanding achievement and uncommon accomplishments of students based on the Kansas Assessment Program results in math and reading, especially those students of ethnic minority group and who qualify for free and reduced-priced meals.

"Herington Elementary School is so proud to be named a 2024 Challenge Award recipient! Our talented students and staff work hard day in and day out. This recognition is another reflection of the commitment from our students, staff, and stakeholders to the educational priorities the USD 487 board of education and district leadership have established. Herington Elementary School was honored to be named a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School previously this year and to now be recognized as a 2024 Challenge Award recipient is the icing on the cake. Great job and go Railers," said Dr. Nicholas Morgan, Principal, Herington Elementary School

Herington Elementary School is Named a 2024 Challenge Award Recipient

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – In her two years in Geary County Schools USD 475, Jolene Dukes has definitely made her mark as a teacher in and out of the classroom. Dukes, who is a Special Education teacher at Sheridan Elementary, has been able to build amazing relationships during her short time in the district, while also creating a classroom and 21st&nbsp;Century after-school program that is fun and engaging.&nbsp;“Teaching is my passion. I take great joy in building relationships with both my students and colleagues, creating a classroom environment that is safe, fun, and engaging. There’s nothing better than seeing a student’s eyes light up when they accomplish something they once thought was impossible. I always remind my students that every day is a fresh start, and anything is possible,” said Dukes.&nbsp;

To fully understand Dukes story and why her drive and love for seeing her students shine is as passionate as it is you must go back to her childhood. Dukes grew up in Des Moines, Iowa, and graduated from Lincoln High School. While at LHS, she was involved in volleyball, choir and the drama club. At the young age of 16 though she was introduced to martial arts and fell in love with it. So much so that she continues to practice Taekwondo and Muay Thai to this day. She has even begun working it into her after school activities at Sheridan.&nbsp;“In addition to my role as a Special Education teacher, I also enjoy teaching Taekwondo as part of the 21st Century program each week. It’s rewarding to share my love for martial arts with students and help them build confidence, discipline and physical skills,” said Dukes, who proudly served in the United States Army for eight years.&nbsp;

Those same qualities of building confidence, discipline and working on a skillset have truly served her well in the classroom during her short tenure as she has been able to teach several Special Education students’ different areas and been able see their growth, daily.“One of my favorite moments as a teacher is witnessing the excitement in a student’s eyes when they master a new skill. Watching my students find joy in learning is what drives me every day,” said Dukes.&nbsp;

Through it all, Dukes, who is an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan and loves to travel, has found a home in USD 475 after previously working as a paraeducator for Des Moines Public Schools and graduating from William Penn University in 2016.&nbsp;“I love being part of such a close-knit district in USD 475. The sense of community here makes teaching even more rewarding,” said Dukes.&nbsp;

Dukes Shares Love for Martial Arts at Sheridan Elementary

The Geary County Commission has supported the expenditure of $4,000 to rebuild the Butterfly House at the Milford nature Cemter. It collapsed during the snow last winter.

CVB funds will be utilized for the project.

The facility is considered a tourism education resource.

Geary County supports rebuilding the Butterfly House

The Geary Community Schools Foundation will host its annual USD 475 Art Show and Silent Auction this Friday, April 4, and Saturday, April 5. The event will be inside Junction City High School.&nbsp;

Friday hours for the art show and silent auction are 5:00-7:00 p.m. Hours on Saturday, April 5, are 1:00-4:00 p.m.&nbsp;

USD 475 Art Show and Silent Auction is this Friday and Saturday

There will be a Legislative Coffee at Blu Restaurant, 602 North Washington,&nbsp; this Saturday, April 5, from 9-11 a.m. The Chamber of Commerce said that you can meet elected state officials and ask questions about legislative issues.

Confirmed attendees include State Senator Mike Argabright and Dr. Beryl New from the State Board of Education.

Chamber of Commerce Legislative Coffee is this Saturday

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University continues to bring educational access to all with the popular&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/openhouse/">All-University Open House</a>&nbsp;from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 12, on the Manhattan campus. This K-State tradition allows future learners and community members to get an insider's look at academic programs, campus life and student organizations. All ages are welcome, and there are no fees to attend.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/openhouse/events/events-list/">Events</a>&nbsp;at Open House are organized into four tracks — Admitted students, prospective students, kids in kindergarten-eighth grade, and Manhattan and K-State community members — giving guests a personalized lineup of experiences.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://apply2.ksu.edu/register/?id=dfae8747-338a-497f-987f-e976f58dc2a6&amp;_gl=1*290u0v*_gcl_au*NDUwMjc2ODA2LjE3MzgwMDU0Mjc.*_ga*MTg2ODc4NjcuMTczMDIxODU3OQ..*_ga_LN1LMYMEK9*MTc0MzQyNzk3NC4zMzEuMS4xNzQzNDMyMzU1LjMyLjAuMTM5NzI3NDQ3Ng..">Register in advance</a>&nbsp;to receive tailored Open House information.

Open House offers attendees a mix of hands-on activities and learning, live entertainment, projects, displays, food and demonstrations. Admission information with guided walking tours of campus and on-campus housing options are available at 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

The K-State Student Union is the hub for Open House, where guests can find numerous booths, activities, and food and drink options. There are also multiple&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/openhouse/about/food-drink.html">food and drink options</a>&nbsp;on campus, including some unique offerings by student organizations or academic units.The College of Arts and Sciences will feature many displays and interactive activities throughout campus, including a chemistry magic show and tours of microbiology and human body labs. Don't miss the College of Agriculture's Little American Royal Showmanship Contest or its live bugs and critter petting zoo.

The Carl R. Ice College of Engineering invites visitors to take part in hands-on activities and explore student organization inventions. The College of Architecture, Planning &amp; Design's events include BOXhattan, which offers visitors a chance to try their hand at city planning.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Visit Justin Hall to explore the College of Health and Human Sciences, where guests can learn more about the human body and eco-friendly fashion, play Pricing for Plinko, and explore the pathway to nursing program and the physician assistant program.

At the College of Education, participate in the hands-on STEM Explorers event and play in the game lab. 

While visiting the College of Business Administration, visitors can take a business trip scavenger hunt to create, market and sell an idea. 

Take a stroll to the College of Veterinary Medicine complex to see a variety of exhibits and activities. Visitors of all ages can learn about pet first aid, diagnosing sick patients, and the skills and equipment used to care for animals of all sizes. 

A complete&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/openhouse/events/events-list/">list of K-State Open House events is available online</a>.

Attend All-University Open House to experience all things K-State

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged scam in Riley County.

On Wednesday, police&nbsp;filed a report for Fraud/Theft by Deception, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 A male reported being contacted by an individual posing as an FBI agent.  The victim was instructed to deposit money into a crypto currency ATM. The victim lost $7,000, according to the RCPD.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

RCPD: Man lost $7,000 in alleged crypto currency scam

&nbsp; Junction City’s Foot Locker&nbsp;Distribution Center donated a total of 45 cases and 941 pairs of shoes to the USD 475 McKinney-Vento program.

Foot Locker in Junction City donates shoes to USD 475 - McKinney-Vento program

The First Thousand Members Club is hosting a Family Fun Day this Saturday, April 5, at the Harmony Center in Junction City. The Harmony Center is located at 540 Grant Ave.

The event will be from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., featuring cultural games and activities, a cooking workshop, face paintings, pickleball, and other vendors. 

Vendors are still wanted for the event. For more information, contact Martine Chery-Hilaire at 240-898-8120. 

First Thousand Members Club hosting Family Fun Day on Saturday

Manhattan City Commissioners have voted to move a proposed economic development application for PTMW Inc. to a second consideration on April 15.

The project was outlined before the commission Tuesday. The company is based in Topeka and wants to expand into Manhattan with a 112,500 square foot facility and eventually include up 146 jobs. The median wage was projected at $22 an hour.

The company does manufacturing and welding with plans to fabricate skids or steel structures. PTMW would make a nearly $14 million investment in building and equipment. There would be a 10-year lease with a possible 10-year 100 percent property tax abatment.

The proposal includes building a partnership with Manhattan Area Technical College for welders.&nbsp;

Manhattan City moves economic development application forward 

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Brice Turang dropped a perfect bunt to score Oliver Dunn in the 11th inning and the Milwaukee Brewers beat the Kansas City Royals 3-2 on Wednesday.

Pinch-runner Dunn advanced from second base on Garett Mitchell’s groundout off Sam Long (0-2). Joey Ortiz walked. Turang, who was 0 for 5 for the game, laid down a bunt in front of the plate and raced to first as Dunn scored.

Jared Koenig (1-0) picked up the win with a scoreless 11th.

Jackson Chourio doubled off Royals reliever Carlos Estévez in the bottom of the 10th and drove in Turang to tie the game at 2.

Chourio crushed a 85-mph changeup from starter Cole Ragan in the first inning for his first home run of the season. Cavan Biggio tied the game with an RBI single in the second off Milwaukee starter Freddy Peralta. After that, it was a pitcher’s duel.

Peralta allowed just two hits, struck out eight and tied his career high with eight innings.

Ragan allowed one run over five innings, struck out 10 and walked two. It was his sixth career start with 10 strikeouts.

With Royals pinch-runner Tyler Tolbert on second in the 10th, Michael Massey lined a hit off the glove of first baseman Jake Bauers that scored Tolbert. Kansas City’s 2-1 lead was brief.

The Brewers were 2 for 14 with runners in scoring position. The Royals were 2 for 8.

Royals: After a day off Thursday, RHP Seth Lugo (0-0, 5.40 ERA) takes on the visiting Baltimore Orioles.

⚾ Turang's bunt drives in winning run in the 11th, Brewers beat the Royals 

On Tuesday night, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JCHSUSD475?__cft__[0]=AZWeQMSqJVTjPVDZ8K_4G5r_fUQ171aIplamtEQFbcD3uDtxbzk5LZjxRuYae7SjSaWP-QFPbo8D2qKTujWWrWDQMICPAKtZmOLidNxopsaSNZcQIO6mc1eT3f6pw3deMW_qpzCi-Rwhp3llVJ9ZAylpeONTmNiBxq5i_QER7JY3p9xW1e3uBHat55calydACiU&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Junction City High School USD 475</a> students Jaidyn Alvarado and Juliana Villanueva were recognized at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/USD475?__cft__[0]=AZWeQMSqJVTjPVDZ8K_4G5r_fUQ171aIplamtEQFbcD3uDtxbzk5LZjxRuYae7SjSaWP-QFPbo8D2qKTujWWrWDQMICPAKtZmOLidNxopsaSNZcQIO6mc1eT3f6pw3deMW_qpzCi-Rwhp3llVJ9ZAylpeONTmNiBxq5i_QER7JY3p9xW1e3uBHat55calydACiU&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Geary County Schools USD 475</a> Board of Education meeting for claiming state championship honors at the 2025 Kansas State High School Activities Association State Wrestling Championships.

Alvarado closed out a dominating season, finishing the year 33-1 overall. She will attend <a href="https://www.facebook.com/forthaysstate?__cft__[0]=AZWeQMSqJVTjPVDZ8K_4G5r_fUQ171aIplamtEQFbcD3uDtxbzk5LZjxRuYae7SjSaWP-QFPbo8D2qKTujWWrWDQMICPAKtZmOLidNxopsaSNZcQIO6mc1eT3f6pw3deMW_qpzCi-Rwhp3llVJ9ZAylpeONTmNiBxq5i_QER7JY3p9xW1e3uBHat55calydACiU&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Fort Hays State University</a> next year. Villanueva captured her second state championship. The junior has now claimed two state championships and a runner-up showing at state during her storied career. For the year, Villanueva posted an impressive 32-1 overall record.&nbsp;

Wrestling champions honored

The Chapman High
School boys and girls powerlifting teams competed in the class 3A
State Meet this past Saturday in Iola, Kansas. The Chapman Lady Irish
won the class 3A State Championship, while the boys teams took third
place.

The Chapman
powerlifting coaches are Jason Grider and Sawyer Havenstein.

(First place
finishes are highlighted below)

Girls highlights
– Class 3A State Champions


Cambree Obermeyer (114 lbs) - 1st in bench press (115 lbs)


Mckenzie Leighty (114 lbs) - 1st in squats (230 lbs)


Alyssa Calovich (123 lbs) - 1st in bench press (145 lbs),
1st in overall weight (480 lbs) *new state record for
weight class


Taya Rowley (148 lbs) - 1st in bench press (145 lbs)


Madalynn Harold (156 lbs) - 1st in Clean (170 lbs)


Breslyn Francis (181 lbs) - 1st in squats (290 lbs)

Boys highlights -
3rd place in Class 3A


Marcus Reed (114 lbs) - 1st in bench press (205 lbs), 1st
in squats (305 lbs), 1st in clean (205 lbs), 1st
in overall weight (715 lbs) *new state records in bench and squat for
weight class – Lightweight lifter of meet


Parker Heitman (123 lbs) - 1st in bench press (185 lbs),
1st in clean (185 lbs)


Brody Calovich (132 lbs) - 1st in clean (205 lbs)


Benson Smiley (181 lbs) - 1st in clean (280 lbs)


Aven Woods (220 lbs) - 1st in clean (350 lbs)

Chapman Powerlifting teams have successful showing at Class 3A State meet

Marcus Reed, a
senior at Chapman High School set three records and captured a state
championship this past Saturday at the class 3A State Powerlifting
meet in Iola, Kansas. 


Reed, competing in
the 114 lb weight class, placed first in the bench press, clean, and
squats. He set a new state record for his weight class with bench
(205 lbs), squat (305 lbs) and overall weight of 715 lbs. 

Reed was named the lightweight lifter of the meet.

Chapman Student wins state championship, sets records at 3A Powerlifting meet

Due to potential inclement weather on Friday, the varsity track meet at Junction City High School has been moved to Thursday at 3:30 p.m.

Schools that will be competing are Flint Hills Christian, Great Bend, Hutchinson, Maize, Maize South, Manhattan, Salina Central, Salina South, and Tonganoxie.&nbsp;

Blue Jays to host a Varsity Track Meet on Thursday

WASHINGTON (AP) — Seven years ago, when a joint bid by the United States, Canada and Mexico was awarded the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-world-cup">2026 World Cup</a>, rifts created by tariffs — yes, back then, too! — and a proposed border wall were glossed over because of the neighbors’ longstanding political and economic alliances.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/71e70169ac9343839436613b7d8dbb31">“The unity of the three nations″</a>&nbsp;was the overriding theme articulated by Carlos Cordeiro, then-president of the U.S. Soccer Federation. “A powerful message,” he called it.

Well, here we are now, with the soccer showcase arriving in North America in about 15 months, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;back in office — inciting trade wars between the neighbors, not to mention across the globe, by levying&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-timeline-trade-war-trump-canada-mexico-china-97819f94e424c0e7bba2812e09a721a7">tariffs</a>&nbsp;that come, then go, then return,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-eu-whiskey-cb259623a25ca1bfdb4673262ceef85b">with more promised</a>, including what the Republican calls “&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-reciprocal-tariff-trade-deficit-4329a37b5a41ac944dcc74093410a126">reciprocal tariffs</a>&nbsp;” starting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-new-tariffs-liberation-day-import-taxes-118d73f50e5133ef3d9598aed6661a6c">Wednesday</a>.

It’s hard to know how, exactly, the current geopolitical fissures, made all the more stark every time Trump or those in his administration talk provocatively about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-canada-could-become-us-state-42360e10ded96c0046fd11eaaf55ab88">making Canada the 51st state</a>, might affect the World Cup, its organization and coordination, fans’ travel plans and more.

“Oh, I think it’s going to make it more exciting,” was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fifa-world-cup-task-force-dba6def9a56cd1c48be592e1725d4a6a">Trump’s take</a>&nbsp;during&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/INDwnNAkTLI?si=fHBRHnggEextYnIZ" target="_blank">an Oval Office appearance with FIFA President Gianni Infantino</a>&nbsp;last month. “Tension’s a good thing.”

Will the world come to the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympics?

Given that the U.S. also is preparing to welcome the world for FIFA’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fifa-club-world-cup-prize-money-real-madrid-0cdee232b9a3670c77b62cd7dc3b53cb">Club World Cup</a>&nbsp;in June, golf’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ryder-cup-pay-pga-tour-europe-e287158b848e8d447302df31da36a79a">Ryder Cup</a>&nbsp;in September and the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/43833244a74643b3a1fd0b2787c2e38d">Los Angeles Olympics</a>&nbsp;in 2028, the question becomes: Will the world want to come?

And, taking&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/border-tourists-german-canadian-detention-immigration-408cd27338e8065268fabc835f8b0c34">Trump’s border and visa policies</a>&nbsp;into account, will the world be able to?

Alan Rothenberg, who ran the 1994 World Cup and successfully oversaw the bid to host the 1999 Women’s World Cup as then-president of U.S. Soccer, thinks the answers to those questions are “Yes.” Pointing to concerns about the last two World Cups, in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-260baf7eaa624cf4b39e9ec988ba9114">Russia in 2018</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/world-cup-soccer-sports-business-discrimination-ee9a8b506525341927b02c97cb19993d">Qatar in 2022</a>, he noted those still attracted attendance totals above 3 million apiece.

“People love the United States around the world — frankly, we wouldn’t have the immigration issue that we’re dealing with if that weren’t the case — so a lot of this is government-to-government,” Rothenberg said. “A passionate soccer fan is not going to be held up by that.”

He doesn’t think one of the host nations would drop out of the World Cup, say, or that other countries might&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jimmy-carter-olympics-boycott-9ba0aad38e01013bd0f40ce554317caf">boycott</a>, as happened at the 1976, 1980 and 1984 Summer Olympics.

“More than anything, they’ll see it as an opportunity for, perhaps, rapprochement, rather than escalating the tensions,” Rothenberg said.

“Besides, from an organizing standpoint, if either Canada or Mexico withdrew” from the World Cup, he said, “the U.S. would pick up the games in a heartbeat.”

Spectators booing the U.S. national anthem

Still, as the White House stance on tariffs and Russia’s war in Ukraine have put&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ukraine-russia-war-putin-zelenskyy-europe-7940f9c5828fc46431928bc073170bc2">Europe on edge</a>, and relations with other countries have become fraught, it might not be a surprise if soccer stadiums for the U.S. games at the World Cup offer the same sort of anti-American sentiment heard when spectators&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-anthem-booed-montreal-hockey-9265bda34c95a1ed0ca2e1f90e7da1b1">in Canada booed “The Star-Spangled Banner”</a>&nbsp;during hockey’s 4 Nations Face-Off in February.

FIFA, soccer’s governing body, did not respond to Associated Press requests for comment, but Infantino has never hidden his admiration for Trump, which he often demonstrates via&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DFCCe0sIRF8/?igsh=MXN1OGZ0ZDhkbGU3OQ%3D%3D&amp;img_index=1" target="_blank">social media</a>. They have met at least five times since the U.S. election in November.

Last week, when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ioc-olympics-president-election-coventry-coe-samaranch-762f3442ff2a01be9e822cd017b89a59">Kirsty Coventry</a>&nbsp;was elected president of the International Olympic Committee — becoming the first woman in that position — she was asked how she would work with Trump and what she would tell athletes about traveling to the U.S. for the next Games.

“I have been dealing with, let’s say, difficult men, in high positions since I was 20 years old,” Coventry said with a chuckle, “and first and foremost, what I have learned is that communication will be key. That is something that will happen early on. And my firm belief is that President Trump is a huge lover of sports. He will want these Games to be significant. He will want them to be a success.”

Referring to concerns about whether the administration might deny some athletes visas, she added: “We will not waver from our values … of solidarity in ensuring that every athlete that qualifies for the Olympic Games has the possibility to attend the Olympic Games and be safe during the Olympic Games.”

The overriding assumption among those involved in the Olympics is that Trump will assure the 2028 Games are a success.

As U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee chairman&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/winter-olympics-sports-8a89eac6ffd68f3e809cda0ec01ce4ac">Gene Sykes</a>&nbsp;put it: “I can’t speak for him, but I think he’s the kind of person who probably believes that having these go very, very well is a reflection of his leadership.”

Will Trump’s tariffs and other policies affect soccer’s World Cup?

“The most likely outcome is that Trump’s nonsense won’t have an impact,” said Smith College professor Andrew Zimbalist, an expert on the economics of sports.

“My guess is that if relations between Canada and the U.S. deteriorate to the point that there are travel restrictions and spending restrictions,” Zimbalist said, “Trump would — just like he’s making exceptions all the time on his tariffs policies — make an exception for a month or six weeks.”

The U.S. and Canadian soccer federations declined AP requests for comment on how White House policies might affect the 2026 World Cup.

Gabriela Cuevas, who represents Mexico’s government in meetings with FIFA, said she considers the tariffs and the soccer event “separate issues,” adding that she believes “the World Cup could be a route to engage in a conversation.”

Observers tend to agree, saying logistics such as security cooperation or team transportation from city to city — or country to country — should not be hampered when it comes to the World Cup, scheduled to take place in 16 cities across the U.S., Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

The borders might become an issue, though.

“The main thing FIFA needs to move for this event is not car parts, and it’s not wheat, and it’s not electricity. It’s people. That’s your real concern,” said Victor Matheson, an economics professor at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts.

“What were previously pretty reasonable border crossings could become much more challenging, simply because both sides amp up their level of inspections and the United States, in particular, cuts down government services that allow people to move effectively between countries.”

As for the fans, 29-year-old Mexican businessman German Camacho Pacheco said “soccer is religion” in his country, so when it comes to the World Cup, “I don’t think they care about tariffs.”

Camacho, wearing the Monterrey club jersey of defender Sergio Ramos while on the way to watch a game at a sports bar in Mexico City, said he doesn’t expect there to be any effect at all on the World Cup “unless this goes from a trade war to an actual war.”

AP writers Greg Beacham in Inglewood, California; Nancy Benac in Washington; Ronald Blum in New York; Graham Dunbar in Costa Navarino, Greece; Eddie Pells in Denver; Anne M. Peterson in Portland, Oregon, and Carlos Rodriguez in Mexico City contributed.

US-Canada-Mexico joint World Cup goes from unity to acrimony thanks to tariffs

Morgan Nabus, a junior at Junction City High School was recognized by the Centennial League for her play on the basketball court.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nabus received recognition as honorable mention for the league. She started all 20 games for the Lady Jays this year and has been a starter on varsity the past two seasons. Morgan averaged four points per game this season.&nbsp;

Lady Jay basketball player earned Centennial League Honors

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Eric Haase and Christian Yelich hit solo home runs to back a strong start by Chad Patrick and the Milwaukee Brewers beat the Kansas City Royals 5-0 on Tuesday night for their first win of the season.

Patrick gave the Brewers something they hadn't had thus far — three scoreless innings to begin the game. Milwaukee surrendered 24 runs in the first three innings of its first four games.

Haase homered from the ninth spot in the order to put the Brewers up 1-0 in the third. Brice Turang and Jackson Chourio followed with singles and Turang scored on a force-out at second on Yelich's grounder to make it 2-0.

Patrick fell an out short of qualifying for the win in his first career start, giving up three hits and three walks with five strikeouts in 4 2/3 innings.

Rhys Hoskins had an RBI single in a two-run sixth to up the lead to 4-0, and Yelich hit his first home run to cap the scoring in the eighth.

Jared Koenig pitched an inning, Abner Uribe (1-0) got four outs to get the win, Joel Payamps pitched the eighth and Trevor Megill got the last three outs.

Michael Lorenzen (0-1) allowed four runs — three earned — in 5 1/3 innings. He struck out seven.

Koenig entered with two outs and two on in the top of the fifth inning. He retired Michael Massey on a grounder to first to preserve a 2-0 lead.

The Brewers began the day with an ERA of 12.27 through four games and that includes two scoreless innings from first baseman Jake Bauers. The staff tied the record set by the 1954 Cardinals for the most runs allowed through four games with 47.

Cole Ragans (0-0) makes his second start for Kansas City in Wednesday's series finale. Freddy Peralta (0—1) starts for the second time for Milwaukee.

⚾ Haase, Yelich homer as Brewers blank Royals 

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Kris Bubic struck out eight in six shutout innings in his first start in nearly two years, and the Kansas City Royals spoiled Milwaukee's home opener with an 11-1 victory over the winless Brewers on Monday.

Maikel Garcia and Salvador Perez homered for the Royals. Jonathan India had three hits and drove in two runs one day after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-jonathan-india-21ca211a9ceab0a802ad3e0161c98cd7">he was struck</a>&nbsp;on the left side of his face by a 98.9-mph pitch from Cleveland's Emmanuel Clase.

Bubic (1-0) allowed three hits and walked two in his first start since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/braves-royals-0901437988ea02e1d63792b0b8fcbcb7">April 15, 2023.</a>&nbsp;The 27-year-old left-hander had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-kris-bubic-e784a60aeb5aa900ac518966b0a6446b">Tommy John surgery</a>&nbsp;later that month, and he filled a relief role in all 27 of his appearances last season, going 1-1 with a 2.67 ERA.

The two-time&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/milwaukee-brewers-984ada478789a7727c5f1333df7afddd">defending NL Central champion</a>&nbsp;Brewers are 0-4 for the first time since 2015, when they finished 68-94.

Garcia connected for a 428-foot drive to center on a 2-1 fastball from Elvin Rodriguez (0-1) in the second. Perez went deep on a 2-2 slider from Elvis Peguero in the seventh, sending a 418-foot drive just inside the left-field foul pole.

Brewers associate manager Rickie Weeks was ejected from the game by home plate umpire Brennan Miller after arguing a ball-strike call from the dugout in the seventh.

After India and Bobby Witt opened the game with back-to-back singles, Rodríguez retired the next two batters and seemed on the verge of getting out of the inning until Michael Massey ripped a 1-1 fastball that bounced over the left-field wall for a ground-rule RBI double. Hunter Renfroe followed with a two-run single.

The Brewers have been outscored 47-15 through their first four games. They opened their season by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/torpedo-bats-yankees-6ac6c797ea935941ed1c0d0e51a7d870">getting swept</a>&nbsp;in a three-game series at Yankee Stadium.

Right-hander Michael Lorenzen starts for the Royals as the three-game series continues Tuesday. The Brewers haven't announced their starting pitcher.

⚾ Bubic sparkles in first start since April 2023 as Royals trounce Brewers

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Longtime manager Peter Vermes is out at Sporting Kansas City.

The MLS club announced Monday that it “mutually agreed to part ways” with Vermes after nearly two decades and with Sporting KC chasing its first win since mid-September of last season.

Kerry Zavagnin was appointed interim head coach.

Vermes became the club's technical director in 2006 before being elevated to head coach in 2009. The member of the U.S. Soccer Hall of Fame ranks third on the all-time MLS list with 203 regular-season wins.

He is the only person to win the MLS Cup as a player and a coach with the same team — he led Kansas City to the 2000 title as a central defender, then coached the team to the 2013 championship.

“It would be hard to list all of the people I want to thank after 20 seasons in managerial positions at Sporting Kansas City,” Vermes said in a statement. “I am thankful to everyone, especially ownership for giving me the opportunity of being a steward of this club for the past two decades. I wish the club nothing but the best in the future.”

Vermes led the club to 11 playoff appearances and four first-place finishes in the regular season. The club also won U.S. Open Cup titles in 2012, 2015 and 2017. Last season, the team reached the U.S. Open Cup Final but finished with an 8-19-7 record for its third straight losing campaign.

Vermes' final game was Saturday, when Sporting KC fell 2–1 to FC Dallas for a fifth loss in their first six games of the 2025 season.

Peter Vermes is out as Sporting Kansas City manager after 16 years

NEMAHA COUNTY&nbsp;– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a murder that occurred Thursday in Seneca, Kansas..

Just before 3p.m., a 911 call was placed reporting shots fired at the Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church rectory at 411 Pioneer St., in Seneca, according to a media release from the KBI.

Deputies from the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office and officers from the Seneca Police Department arrived and discovered Father Arul Carasala, 57, of Seneca, outside the residence suffering from gunshot wounds.

Seneca EMS arrived and transported Father Carasala to the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital. Despite life-saving measures, he died at the hospital from his injuries.

Kansas Highway Patrol troopers responded and helped secure the scene. Shortly after,&nbsp; deputies from the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office and officers from the Seneca Police Department took Gary L. Hermesch, 66, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, into custody. He was booked into the Nemaha County Jail on requested charges of first-degree murder.

Joseph F. Naumann, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Kansas City, Kansas, announced the death on social media Thursday afternoon,

 "I am heartbroken to share the tragic news of the death of Fr. Arul Carasala, who was fatally shot earlier today.," wrote Naumann.

" This senseless act of violence has left us grieving the loss of a beloved priest, leader, and friend."

The Archbishop described "Fr. Carasala as "a devoted and zealous pastor who faithfully served our Archdiocese for over twenty years, including as dean of the Nemaha-Marshall region. His love for Christ and His Church was evident in how he ministered to his people with great generosity and care. His parishioners, friends, and brother priests will deeply miss him."

"In this time of sorrow, let us entrust Fr. Carasala to the mercy of God and lift up in prayer his family in Cuddapah, India, his parish community at Saints Peter and Paul in Seneca, and all who mourn his passing. Let us also pray for the perpetrator, that God may touch and transform his heart."

" I recognize the pain and shock that such an event brings. In moments like these, we turn to our Lord, who is close to the brokenhearted. As we grieve, may we find strength in our faith and in the hope of Christ’s Resurrection."

The Knights of Columbus were scheduled to lead a Rosary at Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Seneca Thursday evening.&nbsp; Naumann was also going to celebrate a Mass there after the Rosary.&nbsp;

"Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen." Nauman wrote.

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

Suspect arrested in shooting death of priest at parish rectory in Kansas

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect jailed on multiple allegations after a high-speed chase in rural Jackson County.

Just after 11a.m. Wednesday, a Sheriff’s Deputy responded to a disturbance at Casey’s General Store, 4th and Arizona Avenue in Holton, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.

 The suspect in the disturbance allegedly failed to follow a lawful order from the deputy and got into a 2009 Mazda and fled the scene pulling out into Arizona Avenue and continued south out of Holton. 

 A pursuit ensued, with the deputy and Holton Police attempting to stop the vehicle. The pursuit continued southbound on U.S. Highway 75.&nbsp; A Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy deployed a tire deflating device flattening 3 of the vehicle’s tires at 178th Road. 

 A Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy performed a tactical vehicle intervention spinning the suspect’s vehicle into the median at 166th Road. 

The vehicle continued southbound in the median until becoming stuck at 162nd Road. Deputies took the driver, later identified as 38-year-old Martin Daniel Sanchez Martinez of Lincoln, Nebraska into custody. 

 During the incident, traffic on southbound U.S. Highway 75 was stopped for approximately 10 minutes. Martinez is being held in the Jackson County Jail for multiple charges including felony flee and eluding law enforcement and felony interference with law enforcement. 

The sheriff asked for any witnesses of Martinez’ actions at Casey’s or driving from the scene to contact the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office at 785-364-2251. The Kansas Highway Patrol and the PBPN Police assisted with the incident.&nbsp;

Man jailed after car gets stuck during Kan. high-speed chase

WASHINGTON (AP) — Former heart surgeon and TV pitchman&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mehmet-oz">Dr. Mehmet Oz</a>&nbsp;was confirmed Thursday to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Oz became the agency’s administrator in a party line 53-45 vote. Kansas U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall voted with the majority.

The 64-year-old will manage health insurance programs for roughly half the country, with oversight of Medicare, Medicaid or Affordable Care Act coverage. He steps into the new role as Congress is debating cuts&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/medicaid-cuts-budget-republicans-health-care-4a13fc3528d7bf20ea52db4a5551c8bf">to the Medicaid program</a>, which provides coverage to millions of poor and disabled Americans.

Oz has not said yet whether he would oppose such cuts to the government-funded program, instead offering a vision of promoting healthier lifestyles, integrating artificial intelligence and telehealth into the system, and rethinking rural health care delivery.

During a hearing last month, he told senators that he did favor work requirements for Medicaid recipients, but paperwork shouldn’t be used to reaffirm that they are working or to block people from staying enrolled.

Oz, who worked for years a respected heart surgeon at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/columbia-university-funding-trump-fa70143c715df8fd4ef337c0e1ccf872">Columbia University</a>, also noted that doctors dislike Medicaid for its relatively low payments and some don’t want to take those patients.

He said that when Medicaid eligibility was expanded without improving resources for doctors, that made care options even thinner for the program’s core patients, which include children, pregnant women and people with disabilities.

“We have to make some important decisions to improve the quality of care,” he said.

Oz has formed a close relationship with his new boss,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/robert-f-kennedy-jr">Robert F. Kennedy Jr</a>. He’s hosted the health secretary and his inner circle regularly at his home in Florida. He’s leaned into Kennedy’s campaign to “Make America Healthy Again,” an effort to redesign the nation’s food supply, reject vaccine mandates and cast doubt on some long-established scientific research.

The former TV show host talks often about the importance of a healthy diet, aligning closely with Kennedy’s views.

While has has faced some criticism for promoting unproven vitamin supplements and holistic treatments — staples of the “MAHA movement” — he’s regularly encouraged Americans to get vaccinated.

Oz will take over CMS days after the agency was spared from the type of deep&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-human-services-layoffs-restructuring-rfk-jr-ec4d7731695e4204970c7eab953b2289">cuts</a>&nbsp;that Kennedy ordered at other public health agencies. Thousands of staffers at the Food and Drug Administration, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as the National Institutes for Health are out of a job after mass layoffs that started Tuesday.

CMS is expected to lose about 300 staffers, including those who worked on minority health and to shrink the cost of health care delivery.

Moran, Marshall help Senate confirm Dr. Oz to lead CMS

NEOSHO COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 8a.m. Thursday in Neosho County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Nissan Kicks driven by Janee M. Umbarger, 55, Chanute, was northbound on U.S. 169 just north of&nbsp;&nbsp;70th Road. The SUV and a southbound 2009 GMC Sierra driven by Carrol E. Clark, 76, Piqua, collided&nbsp;near the center of the roadway.

Umbarger was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Countryside Funeral Home. EMS transported&nbsp; Clark to&nbsp;Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center.&nbsp; Clark was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dies in SUV, pickup crash

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Sedgwick County District Attorney Marc Bennett has completed the review of the use of deadly force that resulted in the death of Daniel Stowe. The incident occurred on December 3, 2023, in the 4200 block of East Gilbert in Wichita.&nbsp;

The sole question addressed by the District Attorney is whether sufficient evidence exists to establish beyond a reasonable doubt that a violation of the criminal laws of the State of Kansas occurred in this instance.

Under Kansas law and the facts of the case, Bennett determined no criminal charges will be filed against the Wichita Police Officer involved.

Just before 2:30p.m., on Dec. 3, 2023, Sedgwick County 911 received a call of a domestic disturbance in the 4200 block of East Gilbert. While officers were on the way to the call, they learned the man involved in the disturbance was known to carry firearm.

At approximately 2:40p.m., four Wichita Police Officers arrive at the east Gilbert location and encountered 50-year-old Daniel Stowe from Wichita, according to Gibbs.

Stowe was standing in the street in front of the call location. One officer met with the calling party inside the house while the other officers spoke to Stowe in the street.

One officer learned from the calling party that Stowe had been making suicidal statements. This information was relayed to the officers who were interacting with Stowe. Officers attempted to pat Stowe down for weapons for their safety and the safety of others based on the information he was known to carry firearms and was making suicidal statements.

Local

Region

Sports