
The Junction City High School JROTC students were able to hear First
Lieutenant Alma Cooper speak on Wednesday. First Lieutenant Cooper,
who currently holds the title of Miss USA, spoke to the students about
demanding excellence for themselves. 

In her speech to the students,
she said, “If you can see me, you can be me.” The message from
the quote implies that that
there is no limitation that you face that you can’t overcome.



Following her speech, the students were able to take a photo and talk
with Miss USA.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740687952709.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of the USD 475 Facebook Page&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of the USD 475 Facebook Page&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>
The Junction City High School JROTC students were able to hear First
Lieutenant Alma Cooper speak on Wednesday. First Lieutenant Cooper,
who currently holds the title of Miss USA, spoke to the students about
demanding excellence for themselves. In her speech to the students,
she said, “If you can see me, you can be me.” The message from
the quote implies that that
there is no limitation that you face that you can’t overcome.

Following her speech, the students were able to take a photo and talk
with Miss USA.

Miss USA speaks to the Junction City High School JROTC Program

The United Women In Faith will hold their annual spring rummage sale this Friday and Saturday.&nbsp;

Hours on Friday, Feb. 28, is 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and hours on Saturday, March 1, will be 9:00 a.m. to Noon.&nbsp;

The annual rummage sale will be at the First United Methodist Church at 804 North Jefferson St. in Junction City.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740686944878.jpeg" alt="rummage sale jc1st .jpg" />
 <figcaption>rummage sale jc1st .jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>The United Women In Faith will hold their annual spring rummage sale this Friday and Saturday.&nbsp;Hours on Friday, Feb. 28, is 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and hours on Saturday, March 1, will be 9:00 a.m. to Noon.&nbsp;The annual rummage sale will be at the First United Methodist Church at 804 North Jefferson St. in Junction City.&nbsp;

United Women in Faith to hold annual Spring Rummage Sale


The Junction City High School&nbsp;boys and girls bowling teams claimed runner-up honors at the
Class 6A Regional in Topeka on Wednesday afternoon. 



By
placing second overall, the Blue Jays advanced to the 2025 State
Bowling Championships, which will take place on Friday, March 7 in
Wichita. 



Individually,
senior Jesse Holtcamp paced the Blue Jays, wrapping-up competition
fourth overall with a series score of 664. On the girl’s side,
senior Victoria Martinez claimed seventh place with a series score of
576.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740685575701.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of the USD 475 Facebook page" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of the USD 475 Facebook page</figcaption>
 </figure>
The Junction City High School&nbsp;boys and girls bowling teams claimed runner-up honors at the
Class 6A Regional in Topeka on Wednesday afternoon. 

By
placing second overall, the Blue Jays advanced to the 2025 State
Bowling Championships, which will take place on Friday, March 7 in
Wichita. 

Individually,
senior Jesse Holtcamp paced the Blue Jays, wrapping-up competition
fourth overall with a series score of 664. On the girl’s side,
senior Victoria Martinez claimed seventh place with a series score of
576.

JCHS bowling teams qualify for State

First Lieutenant Alma Cooper, who is the current Miss USA, spoke to a large crowd on Thursday at the Military Affairs Council monthly breakfast in Junction City.

First Lieutenant Cooper was crowned Miss USA in August 2024 after winning Miss Michigan earlier that year. She is the first active-duty officer to be crowned Miss USA.

From a young age, Cooper believed that her purpose was to serve.  During her junior year of high school, she received a letter in the mail from West Point, where she later graduated in 2023. 

Her life motto is “Demand Excellence”, and she has.  She is active duty in the army and is pursuing a master's degree from the University of Stanford while being Miss USA. (Cooper is the youngest recipient of the Knight-Hennessy Scholarship which is a full-ride to Stanford).

While in the Flint Hills Region, First Lieutenant Cooper spoke at the Military Affairs Council Breakfast in Junction City, to students at Junction City and Manhattan High School, spent time on Fort Riley, and attended a dinner at Kansas State University.

Her message to these students was, “If you can see me, you can be me”. She told students and community members that does not mean everyone has to go out and try to be Miss USA, but that there is no limitation that you face that you can’t overcome.

By Anthony GorgesJC Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740677287357.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>First Lieutenant Alma Cooper, who is the current Miss USA, spoke to a large crowd on Thursday at the Military Affairs Council monthly breakfast in Junction City.First Lieutenant Cooper was crowned Miss USA in August 2024 after winning Miss Michigan earlier that year. She is the first active-duty officer to be crowned Miss USA.From a young age, Cooper believed that her purpose was to serve. During her junior year of high school, she received a letter in the mail from West Point, where she later graduated in 2023. Her life motto is “Demand Excellence”, and she has. She is active duty in the army and is pursuing a master's degree from the University of Stanford while being Miss USA. (Cooper is the youngest recipient of the Knight-Hennessy Scholarship which is a full-ride to Stanford).While in the Flint Hills Region, First Lieutenant Cooper spoke at the Military Affairs Council Breakfast in Junction City, to students at Junction City and Manhattan High School, spent time on Fort Riley, and attended a dinner at Kansas State University.Her message to these students was, “If you can see me, you can be me”. She told students and community members that does not mean everyone has to go out and try to be Miss USA, but that there is no limitation that you face that you can’t overcome.

Miss USA was the featured speaker at the MAC Breakfast in Junction City

The Taylor Road overpass of I-70 is located west of Junction City. Public input collected during KDOT’s Local Consult meetings in 2021 identified replacing the aging bridge and constructing a new interchange as a priority for the North Central Region, KDOT District 2.

The project was selected for further development and KDOT has continued to progress the project through surveying, environmental assessment and preliminary design. During the development process, KDOT held numerous public meetings to gain feedback on the project and its impacts.

Following review of the bridge’s condition, current and future transportation needs, and public input, KDOT has decided to advance this as a bridge replacement project.

The project will replace the existing Taylor Road bridge over I-70 with a newly designed structure which will be compatible with a potential future interchange, should conditions warrant. This option balances current traffic needs while allowing opportunity for future improvements.

Engineering, bridge project development, and right of way needs will focus on meeting standards for the bridge replacement.

A public meeting to share design concepts with the community will be hosted by KDOT in late April. This will provide an opportunity for the community to review designs, discuss right of way impacts, and to ask questions of the project team.&nbsp;

The Taylor Road overpass of I-70 is located west of Junction City. Public input collected during KDOT’s Local Consult meetings in 2021 identified replacing the aging bridge and constructing a new interchange as a priority for the North Central Region, KDOT District 2.The project was selected for further development and KDOT has continued to progress the project through surveying, environmental assessment and preliminary design. During the development process, KDOT held numerous public meetings to gain feedback on the project and its impacts.Following review of the bridge’s condition, current and future transportation needs, and public input, KDOT has decided to advance this as a bridge replacement project.The project will replace the existing Taylor Road bridge over I-70 with a newly designed structure which will be compatible with a potential future interchange, should conditions warrant. This option balances current traffic needs while allowing opportunity for future improvements.Engineering, bridge project development, and right of way needs will focus on meeting standards for the bridge replacement.A public meeting to share design concepts with the community will be hosted by KDOT in late April. This will provide an opportunity for the community to review designs, discuss right of way impacts, and to ask questions of the project team.&nbsp;

KDOT to advance bridge replacement at Taylor Road in Junction City

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

Just before 8:30a.m. Wednesday, officers filed a report of theft in the 100 block of Sarber Lane, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Dillons reported the store was scammed for cash by an unknown subject. Total loss associated with this report is $16,348.58. &nbsp;

Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://ks-rileycountypolice.civicplus.com/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged scam in Manhattan.Just before 8:30a.m. Wednesday, officers filed a report of theft in the 100 block of Sarber Lane, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Dillons reported the store was scammed for cash by an unknown subject. Total loss associated with this report is $16,348.58. &nbsp;Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://ks-rileycountypolice.civicplus.com/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

Local retailer lost $16,000 in alleged scam

KDOT has announced that they are updating the K-18 and I-70 Interchange in Geary County. Several near-fatal crashes have raised concerns about the safety of the current interchange design. Heavy traffic during weekday peak hours and Kansas State University football games further magnifies these safety risks due to congestion.&nbsp;

KDOT said that they studied several options to improve the intersection from I-70 eastbound to K-18 northbound, and a flyover bridge design has been identified as the preferred option. The flyover bridge will span over the existing bridge across I-70. Additional improvements are planned for the southbound to westbound I-70 onramp. The project will also update the north access point of the interchange and add a two-mile auxiliary lane on I-70 (eastbound only). The existing interchange, including the bridge, will remain open both during and after construction

Construction will begin this year with completion scheduled in 2027. The cost of the project is estimated at $31 million.

KDOT releaseKDOT has announced that they are updating the K-18 and I-70 Interchange in Geary County. Several near-fatal crashes have raised concerns about the safety of the current interchange design. Heavy traffic during weekday peak hours and Kansas State University football games further magnifies these safety risks due to congestion.&nbsp;KDOT said that they studied several options to improve the intersection from I-70 eastbound to K-18 northbound, and a flyover bridge design has been identified as the preferred option. The flyover bridge will span over the existing bridge across I-70. Additional improvements are planned for the southbound to westbound I-70 onramp. The project will also update the north access point of the interchange and add a two-mile auxiliary lane on I-70 (eastbound only). The existing interchange, including the bridge, will remain open both during and after constructionConstruction will begin this year with completion scheduled in 2027. The cost of the project is estimated at $31 million.

Improvements are planned for I-70 - K-18 interchange

Karen Eastman-Everhart is the Executive Director of Rainbow Meadows Equine Rescue and Retirement, Inc. and shared information about her work rescuing horses, donkeys and mules. She described the facility as “being on Highway 57 on the way to Rock Springs Ranch and that the ranch will have been open for twenty years in March of this year.”

Her background is in health care, but she also has been an equestrian competition rider and has since wanted to give payback to horses for all the pleasure they had given her. Karen also said that “we offer a save and peaceful refuge for abused, neglected and abandoned horses, which we actively rehabilitate and adopt out to forever homes. Horses are not a commodity” to be enjoyed until they become ill or unwanted.

Karen assists law enforcement as an expert on how to deal with broken laws and with her volunteers makes effort to rehabilitate horses in days rather than years. When a horse arrives at Rainbow Meadows, they are provided with nutrition and training before being adopted out to a forever home where it is ensured the care it deserves for the remainder of its days. Rainbow Meadows also offers a “space available” retirement program for individuals wishing to retire their horses in the beautiful Kansas Flint Hills where animals can rest and relax. Rainbow Meadows has also become increasingly focused on educating horse owners in the areas of responsible ownership and proper horse care as well as detrimental effects of over-breeding.

Eastman-Everhart also shared that “community engagement is an important part of the work done at Rainbow Meadows. Third through fifth graders visit during the morning breakfast time and are given a book to read to the horses. The Manhattan Optimist Club donated mats for the children to sit on while the children read to the horses. Jobs for Americas Graduates in Kansas (JAG-K) middle school and high school age youth have also been involved in learning about ways to volunteer and serve the animals at Rainbow Meadows. Volunteers between the ages of twelve and sixteen need to have parents present to supervise the youth. After age sixteen, internships are available.”

For more information see the Rainbow Meadows Facebook page; the web site at Rainbow Meadows Ranch.com or call 316-648-5082.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740613611170.jpeg" alt="Pictured left to right are Karen Eastman-Everhart, Executive Director of Rainbow Meadows Equine Rescue and Retirement, Inc. and Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Pictured left to right are Karen Eastman-Everhart, Executive Director of Rainbow Meadows Equine Rescue and Retirement, Inc. and Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dr. Ferrell MillerKaren Eastman-Everhart is the Executive Director of Rainbow Meadows Equine Rescue and Retirement, Inc. and shared information about her work rescuing horses, donkeys and mules. She described the facility as “being on Highway 57 on the way to Rock Springs Ranch and that the ranch will have been open for twenty years in March of this year.”Her background is in health care, but she also has been an equestrian competition rider and has since wanted to give payback to horses for all the pleasure they had given her. Karen also said that “we offer a save and peaceful refuge for abused, neglected and abandoned horses, which we actively rehabilitate and adopt out to forever homes. Horses are not a commodity” to be enjoyed until they become ill or unwanted.Karen assists law enforcement as an expert on how to deal with broken laws and with her volunteers makes effort to rehabilitate horses in days rather than years. When a horse arrives at Rainbow Meadows, they are provided with nutrition and training before being adopted out to a forever home where it is ensured the care it deserves for the remainder of its days. Rainbow Meadows also offers a “space available” retirement program for individuals wishing to retire their horses in the beautiful Kansas Flint Hills where animals can rest and relax. Rainbow Meadows has also become increasingly focused on educating horse owners in the areas of responsible ownership and proper horse care as well as detrimental effects of over-breeding.Eastman-Everhart also shared that “community engagement is an important part of the work done at Rainbow Meadows. Third through fifth graders visit during the morning breakfast time and are given a book to read to the horses. The Manhattan Optimist Club donated mats for the children to sit on while the children read to the horses. Jobs for Americas Graduates in Kansas (JAG-K) middle school and high school age youth have also been involved in learning about ways to volunteer and serve the animals at Rainbow Meadows. Volunteers between the ages of twelve and sixteen need to have parents present to supervise the youth. After age sixteen, internships are available.”For more information see the Rainbow Meadows Facebook page; the web site at Rainbow Meadows Ranch.com or call 316-648-5082.

JC Breakfast Optimist Club Learned About Rainbow Meadows Equine Rescue and  Retirement

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a> TOPEKA — Thirty-five opponents and three advocates waded into the Kansas House’s debate on legislation striking the principle that tenure awarded at Kansas public universities and colleges carried with it an employment property interest.

The bill drafted by an Emporia State University attorney, who is a defendant in an ongoing ESU labor dispute and recently renounced his tenure, was the subject of a hearing before the House Judiciary Committee attracting state and national attention. A dozen faculty from Fort Hays State University have objected to the legislation, while a half-dozen from University of Kansas and Washburn University shared displeasure. There was criticism from Kansas State University, Pittsburg State University and Baker University.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/10/kansas-house-bill-strives-to-strip-property-interest-from-definition-of-university-college-tenure/">bottom line among opponents</a>&nbsp;was that the bill’s broad language would fracture a fundamental safeguard of academic freedom.

“When faculty members can lose their positions because of their speech, publications or research findings, they cannot properly fulfill their core responsibilities to advance and transmit knowledge,” said Todd Wolfson, president of the American Association of University Professors in Washington, D.C. “The common good is not served when business, political or other entities can threaten the livelihood of researchers and instructors and thereby suppress the results of their work or modify their judgments.”

House Bill 2348 hasn’t advanced beyond the Feb. 11 hearing at the Kansas Capitol, despite maneuvering by House Republicans to bounce it to another committee before returning it to House judiciary.

Gov. Laura Kelly, who holds a master’s degree from Indiana University in Bloomington, said she was convinced the tenure bill lacked traction in the Legislature. She predicted it wouldn’t pass the House and Senate in the 2025 session.

“I’d be very surprised if it gets to my desk,” Kelly said in an interview.

ESU attorney Steven Lovett, the university’s general counsel since 2023, developed the tenure bill through some sort of rogue, covert operation leading to its introduction by Rep. Steven Howe, R-Salina. Lovett is a defendant in ESU’s legal battle with former university employees that has been winding through state and federal court. In 2022, ESU fired 30 tenured or tenure-track faculty. A portion of those individuals filed a lawsuit to challenge their ouster.

ESU officials said Lovett worked on the tenure reform legislation as a “private citizen” rather than in his capacity as a top university attorney. The CEO of the Kansas Board of Regents, the state’s higher education governing board, said Lovett appeared to have violated policy by directing a bill to the Legislature without consent of the state Board of Regents.

The office of Kansas&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/fisc_note_hb2348_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">Attorney General Kris Kobach anticipated possible legal challenges</a>&nbsp;if the bill became law, and indicated legal costs could be $250,000.

During the House committee hearing on the bill, Lovett outlined reasons the property interest inherent in tenure had to be repealed for thousands working at six state universities, 19 community colleges, six technical colleges and Washburn University.

His initiative was lauded by Christine Curley, who worked at Wichita State University and Southwestern College in Winfield. In testimony, she said faculty tenure hid administrative incompetence and unethical behavior. Tenure reflected “a systematic failure in leadership and accountability within higher education institutions,” she said.

The other proponent was Selayoa Lovett, who holds a master’s degree from ESU and is spouse of the bill’s designer — ESU’s Steven Lovett.

Selayoa Lovett’s testimony asserted Kansas law made it nearly impossible to dismiss underperforming tenured faculty, including professors at ESU.

“Faculty with a sense of entitlement often exhibit attitudes of superiority, dismissing others as less qualified simply because they lack tenure,” Selayoa Lovett said. “In my current position in the private sector, I frequently go above and beyond my job description to contribute to the success of my company. Why should faculty members not be held to the same standards?”

She said “around 30% of faculty fail to contribute at a meaningful level, relying on tenure as a shield from accountability.”

“The unfortunate reality is that many tenured professors choose to do the bare minimum, working only 20 hours a week and neglecting their students and the need for continuous growth and relevance,” Selayoa Lovett said.

Joseph Cohn, director of policy with the conservative Heterodox Academy, said the 2024 Legislature in Kansas took a positive step toward protecting academic freedom by enacting a law aimed at weakening diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. Last year’s House Bill 2105, he said, prohibited public universities from using political litmus tests in faculty hiring and promotion decisions.

“But enactment of HB 2348 would be a tremendous step backward,” Cohn said. “HB 2348 would end tenure at Kansas’ public institutions of higher education both prospectively and retroactively. Ending tenure — especially in legislation that offers no alternative protections for academic freedom — would compromise the health of Kansas’ public colleges and universities because it would leave faculty without key protections that allow for open inquiry to thrive.”

<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/11/kansas-university-leaders-condemn-bill-abolishing-property-rights-of-faculty-tenure/">Other opponents of the bill</a>&nbsp;took Cohn’s argument a step further.

Lori Kniffin, an assistant professor up for tenure at Fort Hays State, said academic freedom in the education system and wider freedoms espoused in a democracy were at stake. She earned a doctorate at University of North Carolina at Greensboro after receiving bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Kansas State. She works in the School of Criminal Justice, Leadership and Sociology at FHSU.

“I have provided outstanding teaching, research and service through FHSU for the last five years,” Kniffin said. “The tenure process is developmental and rigorous. Tenure is earned, not given.”

Daniel Hoyt, a Kansas State professor and president of the Kansas state chapter of AAUP, said the KSU faculty handbook defined the purpose of awarding tenure as the quest to hire faculty of the highest caliber and to deliver full academic freedom in pursuit of ideas or inquiries without fear of retribution.

“HB 2348 eviscerates the faculty’s freedom to do their work without censorship,” Hoyt said. “We need more support and funding, not political attacks on faculty.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740495916145.jpeg" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly said she was skeptical the House and Senate would approve during the 2025 legislative session a bill that retroactively undermined property rights for thousands of tenured faculty at public universities, community colleges and technical colleges across Kansas. Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly said she was skeptical the House and Senate would approve during the 2025 legislative session a bill that retroactively undermined property rights for thousands of tenured faculty at public universities, community colleges and technical colleges across Kansas. Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a> TOPEKA — Thirty-five opponents and three advocates waded into the Kansas House’s debate on legislation striking the principle that tenure awarded at Kansas public universities and colleges carried with it an employment property interest.The bill drafted by an Emporia State University attorney, who is a defendant in an ongoing ESU labor dispute and recently renounced his tenure, was the subject of a hearing before the House Judiciary Committee attracting state and national attention. A dozen faculty from Fort Hays State University have objected to the legislation, while a half-dozen from University of Kansas and Washburn University shared displeasure. There was criticism from Kansas State University, Pittsburg State University and Baker University.The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/10/kansas-house-bill-strives-to-strip-property-interest-from-definition-of-university-college-tenure/">bottom line among opponents</a>&nbsp;was that the bill’s broad language would fracture a fundamental safeguard of academic freedom.“When faculty members can lose their positions because of their speech, publications or research findings, they cannot properly fulfill their core responsibilities to advance and transmit knowledge,” said Todd Wolfson, president of the American Association of University Professors in Washington, D.C. “The common good is not served when business, political or other entities can threaten the livelihood of researchers and instructors and thereby suppress the results of their work or modify their judgments.”House Bill 2348 hasn’t advanced beyond the Feb. 11 hearing at the Kansas Capitol, despite maneuvering by House Republicans to bounce it to another committee before returning it to House judiciary.Gov. Laura Kelly, who holds a master’s degree from Indiana University in Bloomington, said she was convinced the tenure bill lacked traction in the Legislature. She predicted it wouldn’t pass the House and Senate in the 2025 session.“I’d be very surprised if it gets to my desk,” Kelly said in an interview.<h2>Team Lovett</h2>ESU attorney Steven Lovett, the university’s general counsel since 2023, developed the tenure bill through some sort of rogue, covert operation leading to its introduction by Rep. Steven Howe, R-Salina. Lovett is a defendant in ESU’s legal battle with former university employees that has been winding through state and federal court. In 2022, ESU fired 30 tenured or tenure-track faculty. A portion of those individuals filed a lawsuit to challenge their ouster.ESU officials said Lovett worked on the tenure reform legislation as a “private citizen” rather than in his capacity as a top university attorney. The CEO of the Kansas Board of Regents, the state’s higher education governing board, said Lovett appeared to have violated policy by directing a bill to the Legislature without consent of the state Board of Regents.The office of Kansas&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/fisc_note_hb2348_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">Attorney General Kris Kobach anticipated possible legal challenges</a>&nbsp;if the bill became law, and indicated legal costs could be $250,000.During the House committee hearing on the bill, Lovett outlined reasons the property interest inherent in tenure had to be repealed for thousands working at six state universities, 19 community colleges, six technical colleges and Washburn University.His initiative was lauded by Christine Curley, who worked at Wichita State University and Southwestern College in Winfield. In testimony, she said faculty tenure hid administrative incompetence and unethical behavior. Tenure reflected “a systematic failure in leadership and accountability within higher education institutions,” she said.The other proponent was Selayoa Lovett, who holds a master’s degree from ESU and is spouse of the bill’s designer — ESU’s Steven Lovett.Selayoa Lovett’s testimony asserted Kansas law made it nearly impossible to dismiss underperforming tenured faculty, including professors at ESU.“Faculty with a sense of entitlement often exhibit attitudes of superiority, dismissing others as less qualified simply because they lack tenure,” Selayoa Lovett said. “In my current position in the private sector, I frequently go above and beyond my job description to contribute to the success of my company. Why should faculty members not be held to the same standards?”She said “around 30% of faculty fail to contribute at a meaningful level, relying on tenure as a shield from accountability.”“The unfortunate reality is that many tenured professors choose to do the bare minimum, working only 20 hours a week and neglecting their students and the need for continuous growth and relevance,” Selayoa Lovett said.<h2>Step backward</h2>Joseph Cohn, director of policy with the conservative Heterodox Academy, said the 2024 Legislature in Kansas took a positive step toward protecting academic freedom by enacting a law aimed at weakening diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. Last year’s House Bill 2105, he said, prohibited public universities from using political litmus tests in faculty hiring and promotion decisions.“But enactment of HB 2348 would be a tremendous step backward,” Cohn said. “HB 2348 would end tenure at Kansas’ public institutions of higher education both prospectively and retroactively. Ending tenure — especially in legislation that offers no alternative protections for academic freedom — would compromise the health of Kansas’ public colleges and universities because it would leave faculty without key protections that allow for open inquiry to thrive.”<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/11/kansas-university-leaders-condemn-bill-abolishing-property-rights-of-faculty-tenure/">Other opponents of the bill</a>&nbsp;took Cohn’s argument a step further.Lori Kniffin, an assistant professor up for tenure at Fort Hays State, said academic freedom in the education system and wider freedoms espoused in a democracy were at stake. She earned a doctorate at University of North Carolina at Greensboro after receiving bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Kansas State. She works in the School of Criminal Justice, Leadership and Sociology at FHSU.“I have provided outstanding teaching, research and service through FHSU for the last five years,” Kniffin said. “The tenure process is developmental and rigorous. Tenure is earned, not given.”Daniel Hoyt, a Kansas State professor and president of the Kansas state chapter of AAUP, said the KSU faculty handbook defined the purpose of awarding tenure as the quest to hire faculty of the highest caliber and to deliver full academic freedom in pursuit of ideas or inquiries without fear of retribution.“HB 2348 eviscerates the faculty’s freedom to do their work without censorship,” Hoyt said. “We need more support and funding, not political attacks on faculty.”

Gov. Kelly skeptical Kansas House’s anti-tenure legislation will reach her desk

This legislative session, Kansas legislators are considering whether to restrict what low-income households can buy with their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Specifically, Senate Bill 79 requests authorization from the federal government to prohibit the use of those funds to buy candy and soda.

Even if the bill passes, the federal government will still have the final say on granting a waiver. However, this issue represents a broader debate in U.S. politics about the proper purpose and scope of government involvement in our day-to-day lives.

In other words, is this something that the Kansas Legislature should do, or is the government meddling too much in people's private decisions?

Proponents of these restrictions contend that excluding sugar-filled beverages and snacks aligns with the SNAP program's initial objective of assisting low-income families in purchasing nutritious food. They argue that limiting unhealthy purchases would help ensure those taxpayer dollars are spent wisely.

They also suggest that these restrictions could even lead to lower healthcare costs down the line.

In contrast, critics argue that this kind of policy unfairly targets low-income people. Restricting their purchases implies they can’t or shouldn’t make their own food choices. SNAP recipients already face the stigma of using government assistance. Under these rules, they might face even more frustration when they face growing restrictions on what they can and cannot buy.

Furthermore, there isn’t universal consensus on what counts as “unhealthy.” Many processed foods have sugar in them, but they’re also a staple for families who don’t have easy access to fresh produce.

Enforcing these rules would also be complicated and not just for government agencies. Stores would have to keep track of which products are allowed, and benefit recipients would need to be informed of this change, which could cause confusion at the checkout.

The question is whether the potential health benefits are worth the extra hassle.

This is not the first time a state has tried to restrict SNAP purchases. However, past efforts to impose SNAP purchasing limits have been stopped by strong lobbying efforts from the beverage

and food retail sectors, bureaucratic resistance within the USDA and congressional agricultural committees, and hesitance from those who prioritize the program’s role in supporting low-income households without added burden or stigma.

It is also important to note that research on whether these types of disincentives actually change purchase and consumption behavior show mixed results.

However, there’s a growing push for policies that limit government aid and what people can do with it. In fact, some wonder if policies like this will see new life under Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s call to “Make America Healthy Again.”

Kansas lawmakers face a choice. While encouraging healthier eating and making better use of public funds sounds good in theory, the practical and ethical issues can’t be ignored. In the end, Kansas must ask: Will restricting SNAP purchases help, or is it just more government interference?

Brianne Heidbreder, PhD is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University.

By Brianne HeidbrederThis legislative session, Kansas legislators are considering whether to restrict what low-income households can buy with their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Specifically, Senate Bill 79 requests authorization from the federal government to prohibit the use of those funds to buy candy and soda.Even if the bill passes, the federal government will still have the final say on granting a waiver. However, this issue represents a broader debate in U.S. politics about the proper purpose and scope of government involvement in our day-to-day lives.In other words, is this something that the Kansas Legislature should do, or is the government meddling too much in people's private decisions?Proponents of these restrictions contend that excluding sugar-filled beverages and snacks aligns with the SNAP program's initial objective of assisting low-income families in purchasing nutritious food. They argue that limiting unhealthy purchases would help ensure those taxpayer dollars are spent wisely.They also suggest that these restrictions could even lead to lower healthcare costs down the line.In contrast, critics argue that this kind of policy unfairly targets low-income people. Restricting their purchases implies they can’t or shouldn’t make their own food choices. SNAP recipients already face the stigma of using government assistance. Under these rules, they might face even more frustration when they face growing restrictions on what they can and cannot buy.Furthermore, there isn’t universal consensus on what counts as “unhealthy.” Many processed foods have sugar in them, but they’re also a staple for families who don’t have easy access to fresh produce.Enforcing these rules would also be complicated and not just for government agencies. Stores would have to keep track of which products are allowed, and benefit recipients would need to be informed of this change, which could cause confusion at the checkout.The question is whether the potential health benefits are worth the extra hassle.This is not the first time a state has tried to restrict SNAP purchases. However, past efforts to impose SNAP purchasing limits have been stopped by strong lobbying efforts from the beverageand food retail sectors, bureaucratic resistance within the USDA and congressional agricultural committees, and hesitance from those who prioritize the program’s role in supporting low-income households without added burden or stigma.It is also important to note that research on whether these types of disincentives actually change purchase and consumption behavior show mixed results.However, there’s a growing push for policies that limit government aid and what people can do with it. In fact, some wonder if policies like this will see new life under Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s call to “Make America Healthy Again.”Kansas lawmakers face a choice. While encouraging healthier eating and making better use of public funds sounds good in theory, the practical and ethical issues can’t be ignored. In the end, Kansas must ask: Will restricting SNAP purchases help, or is it just more government interference?Brianne Heidbreder, PhD is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University.

Should Kansas Restrict SNAP Purchases of Soda and Candy?

&nbsp;Junction City&nbsp;resident&nbsp;Leola Davis&nbsp;has been named to the President’s Honor Roll for their work in the fall 2024 semester, a distinction given to those who achieve the university’s highest academic standards.

To be included on the President’s Honor Roll, a student must record a “straight-A” or 4.0 grade point average for their work in qualifying classes.

To be eligible for the President’s or Dean’s lists, students must complete at least 12 hours of on-campus class credit for the semester.

&nbsp;Junction City&nbsp;resident&nbsp;Leola Davis&nbsp;has been named to the President’s Honor Roll for their work in the fall 2024 semester, a distinction given to those who achieve the university’s highest academic standards.To be included on the President’s Honor Roll, a student must record a “straight-A” or 4.0 grade point average for their work in qualifying classes.To be eligible for the President’s or Dean’s lists, students must complete at least 12 hours of on-campus class credit for the semester..

Junction City Resident Named to University of Central Oklahoma President’s Honor Roll

&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers interested in Manufacturing, Aviation and Aerospace to take advantage of March’s Virtual Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 5.

“Kansans are builders and doers, and nothing demonstrates this more than our strong and robust manufacturing industry across the state,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Kansas’ outstanding manufacturing and aerospace employers are looking for skilled talent to join their ranks across every region of our state — don’t miss this opportunity to connect and explore the high-growth professions here in Kansas.”

The virtual job fair allows for anyone searching for a new position to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.

The Virtual Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers may request to engage in a video interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodation by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581613096219.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers interested in Manufacturing, Aviation and Aerospace to take advantage of March’s Virtual Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 5.“Kansans are builders and doers, and nothing demonstrates this more than our strong and robust manufacturing industry across the state,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Kansas’ outstanding manufacturing and aerospace employers are looking for skilled talent to join their ranks across every region of our state — don’t miss this opportunity to connect and explore the high-growth professions here in Kansas.”The virtual job fair allows for anyone searching for a new position to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.The Virtual Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers may request to engage in a video interview.Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodation by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.

KANSASWORKS Hosts Manufacturing and Aerospace Job Fair March 1 

Today, the Social Security Administration announced it is immediately beginning to pay retroactive benefits and will increase monthly benefit payments to people whose benefits have been affected by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO). These provisions reduced or eliminated the Social Security benefits for over 3.2 million people who receive a pension based on work that was not covered by Social Security (a "non-covered pension") because they did not pay Social Security taxes. The Social Security Fairness Act ends WEP and GPO.

“Social Security’s aggressive schedule to start issuing retroactive payments in February and increase monthly benefit payments beginning in April supports President Trump’s priority to implement the Social Security Fairness Act as quickly as possible,” said Lee Dudek, Acting Commissioner of Social Security. “The agency’s original estimate of taking a year or more now will only apply to complex cases that cannot be processed by automation. The American people deserve to get their due benefits as quickly as possible.”

People who will benefit from the new law include some teachers, firefighters, and police officers in many states; federal employees covered by the Civil Service Retirement System; and people whose work had been covered by a foreign social security system.

Many beneficiaries will be due a retroactive payment because the WEP and GPO offset no longer apply as of January 2024. Most people will receive their one-time retroactive payment by the end of March, which will be deposited into their bank account on record with Social Security.

Many of these people will also receive higher monthly benefits, which will first be reflected in the benefit payment they receive in April. Depending on factors such as the type of Social Security benefit received and the amount of the person's pension, the change in payment amount will vary from person to person.

Anyone whose monthly benefit is adjusted, or who will get a retroactive payment, will receive a mailed notice from Social Security explaining the benefit change or retroactive payment. Most people will receive their retroactive payment two to three weeks before they receive their notice in the mail, because the President understands how important it is to pay people what they are due right away. Social Security is expediting payments using automation and will continue to handle many complex cases that must be done manually, on an individual case-by-case basis. Those complex cases will take additional time to update the beneficiary record and pay the correct benefits.

Social Security urges beneficiaries to wait until April to ask about the status of their retroactive payment, since these payments will process incrementally into March. Since the new monthly payment amount will begin with the April payment, beneficiaries should wait until after receiving their April payment, before contacting Social Security with questions about their monthly benefit amount.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634133091707.png" alt="Social Security" />
 <figcaption>Social Security</figcaption>
 </figure>SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATIONToday, the Social Security Administration announced it is immediately beginning to pay retroactive benefits and will increase monthly benefit payments to people whose benefits have been affected by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO). These provisions reduced or eliminated the Social Security benefits for over 3.2 million people who receive a pension based on work that was not covered by Social Security (a "non-covered pension") because they did not pay Social Security taxes. The Social Security Fairness Act ends WEP and GPO.“Social Security’s aggressive schedule to start issuing retroactive payments in February and increase monthly benefit payments beginning in April supports President Trump’s priority to implement the Social Security Fairness Act as quickly as possible,” said Lee Dudek, Acting Commissioner of Social Security. “The agency’s original estimate of taking a year or more now will only apply to complex cases that cannot be processed by automation. The American people deserve to get their due benefits as quickly as possible.”People who will benefit from the new law include some teachers, firefighters, and police officers in many states; federal employees covered by the Civil Service Retirement System; and people whose work had been covered by a foreign social security system.Many beneficiaries will be due a retroactive payment because the WEP and GPO offset no longer apply as of January 2024. Most people will receive their one-time retroactive payment by the end of March, which will be deposited into their bank account on record with Social Security.Many of these people will also receive higher monthly benefits, which will first be reflected in the benefit payment they receive in April. Depending on factors such as the type of Social Security benefit received and the amount of the person's pension, the change in payment amount will vary from person to person.Anyone whose monthly benefit is adjusted, or who will get a retroactive payment, will receive a mailed notice from Social Security explaining the benefit change or retroactive payment. Most people will receive their retroactive payment two to three weeks before they receive their notice in the mail, because the President understands how important it is to pay people what they are due right away. Social Security is expediting payments using automation and will continue to handle many complex cases that must be done manually, on an individual case-by-case basis. Those complex cases will take additional time to update the beneficiary record and pay the correct benefits.Social Security urges beneficiaries to wait until April to ask about the status of their retroactive payment, since these payments will process incrementally into March. Since the new monthly payment amount will begin with the April payment, beneficiaries should wait until after receiving their April payment, before contacting Social Security with questions about their monthly benefit amount.

Social Security announces expedited retroactive payments and higher monthly benefits

The Spring Sports meeting will be held tonight at Junction City High School. The meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. in the main gym.&nbsp;

Spring sports at Junction City High School are: Baseball, Softball, Track and Field, boys golf, boys tennis, girls swimming, and girls soccer.

The Spring Sports meeting will be held tonight at Junction City High School. The meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. in the main gym.&nbsp;Spring sports at Junction City High School are: Baseball, Softball, Track and Field, boys golf, boys tennis, girls swimming, and girls soccer.

Spring Sports Meeting at JCHS is tonight

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for a portion of the Morris County Rural Water District #1 public water supply system located in Geary and Morris Counties. Customers located along and West of highway 57, South to the Geary-Morris County line are included in this notice. 

KDHE said that the advisory was issued because of a waterline break resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system.  Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination. 

Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind notice following testing at a certified laboratory. Drinking water samples collected from the Morris Co. RWD #1 indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. 

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at: 785-482-3303 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit our webpage: <a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Disruption-in-Water-Service.?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1AtHD_ruRSiG5zQFa0ejZFuX1pPXq6xEVVHPer5JpdMdAJVjW26CJhkCU_aem_TaxlJvOliYpUGlqhcqy0aw#GearyCountyKS" target="_blank">https://ww</a>

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for a portion of the Morris County Rural Water District #1 public water supply system located in Geary and Morris Counties. Customers located along and West of highway 57, South to the Geary-Morris County line are included in this notice. KDHE said that the advisory was issued because of a waterline break resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination. Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind notice following testing at a certified laboratory. Drinking water samples collected from the Morris Co. RWD #1 indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. For consumer questions, please contact the water system at: 785-482-3303 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit our webpage: <a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Disruption-in-Water-Service.?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1AtHD_ruRSiG5zQFa0ejZFuX1pPXq6xEVVHPer5JpdMdAJVjW26CJhkCU_aem_TaxlJvOliYpUGlqhcqy0aw#GearyCountyKS" target="_blank">https://ww</a>

Boil Water Advisory Rescinded for Morris Co. RWD 1, Geary County

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

Isaiah Olavarria, Failure to appear, arrested 02/24

Austin Hawkes, Outside warrant, arrested 02/24

Jerry Johnson, Criminal deprivation of property, arrested 02/24

Jerry Johnson, Driving while license cancelled/suspended or revoked, DUI-Liquor or Drugs, Passing when near stationary authorized emergency vehicle; Violation of protection order, arrested 02/24

Cullen Jones, Failure to appear, arrested 02/25

Quinton Jackson, Failure to appear, arrested 02/25

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740585971735.jpeg" alt="Nathan Riffel, Outside warrant; Failure to appear, arrested 02/24" />
 <figcaption>Nathan Riffel, Outside warrant; Failure to appear, arrested 02/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740585982613.jpeg" alt="Azucena Jimenez Duran, Failure to appear, arrested 02/24" />
 <figcaption>Azucena Jimenez Duran, Failure to appear, arrested 02/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740586052033.jpeg" alt="Gregory Mackey, Violate offender registration act, arrested 02/25" />
 <figcaption>Gregory Mackey, Violate offender registration act, arrested 02/25</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740586087827.jpeg" alt="Zachary Olson, Possession of controlled substance, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Failure to appear, arrested 02/25" />
 <figcaption>Zachary Olson, Possession of controlled substance, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Failure to appear, arrested 02/25</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740586151694.jpeg" alt="Dquane Phillips, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 02/25" />
 <figcaption>Dquane Phillips, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 02/25</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740586196065.jpeg" alt="Marion Robinson, Failure to appear (Two counts), Interference with LEO; Obstruct/resist/oppose felony warrant service or execution; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, Possession of marijuana (Two or more prior convictions), arrested 02/25" />
 <figcaption>Marion Robinson, Failure to appear (Two counts), Interference with LEO; Obstruct/resist/oppose felony warrant service or execution; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, Possession of marijuana (Two or more prior convictions), arrested 02/25</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740586294710.jpeg" alt="Crystal Dominguez, Taxation; Drugs - No drug tax stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Distribute marijuana - 450 grams - &lt; 30 kilograms, arrested 02/25" />
 <figcaption>Crystal Dominguez, Taxation; Drugs - No drug tax stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Distribute marijuana - 450 grams - &lt; 30 kilograms, arrested 02/25</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740586393469.jpeg" alt="Skylar Chambers, Probation violation, arrested 02/25" />
 <figcaption>Skylar Chambers, Probation violation, arrested 02/25</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740586402909.jpeg" alt="Vincent Holman, Failure to appear, arrested 02/25" />
 <figcaption>Vincent Holman, Failure to appear, arrested 02/25</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740586414126.jpeg" alt="Jacob Bruce, Possession of stolen property (Value $1,500 to $25,000), arrested 02/25" />
 <figcaption>Jacob Bruce, Possession of stolen property (Value $1,500 to $25,000), arrested 02/25</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Isaiah Olavarria, Failure to appear, arrested 02/24Austin Hawkes, Outside warrant, arrested 02/24Jerry Johnson, Criminal deprivation of property, arrested 02/24Jerry Johnson, Driving while license cancelled/suspended or revoked, DUI-Liquor or Drugs, Passing when near stationary authorized emergency vehicle; Violation of protection order, arrested 02/24Cullen Jones, Failure to appear, arrested 02/25Quinton Jackson, Failure to appear, arrested 02/25Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos Feb. 25-26

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an arrest.

Just before 5:30a.m. February 7, the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office received a report of a burglary in progress at Brooks Yamaha, in the 8000 block of East Highway 24,  Manhattan, Pottawatomie County, Kansas, according to a media release.

 Deputies arrived on scene and were able to determine that several subjects in a U-Haul truck had gained entry to the building and stolen multiple motorcycles before fleeing the area a few minutes later.

      The U-Haul truck was located in Wabaunsee County later that morning and following a pursuit by the Wabaunsee County Sheriff's Office, the U-Haul was abandoned and the driver fled on foot. 

Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office Detective’s responded to the scene and it was determined that the U-Haul had been stolen out of Kansas City. 

The stolen U-Haul and stolen motorcycles were recovered and later returned to their respective owners. Several hours later the driver was apprehended at a private residence in Shawnee County. 

 The driver was arrested by the Kansas Highway Patrol and transported to the Wabaunsee County Jail on local charges. Pottawatomie County Sheriff Office Detectives responded to the Wabaunsee County Jail and interviewed the driver, identified as Omar Ocampo Jr., 23, of Kansas City, Missouri, and were able to determine probable cause for an arrest to be made. 

     On February 14, the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office Detective’s picked up Ocampo from the Wabaunsee County Jail and transported him to the Pottawatomie County Jail on charges of Burglary, theft and criminal damage to property. 

Ocampo is being held on a bond of $100,000. 

Anyone with information on our case is asked to contact Sgt. Young or Detective Butler at the Sheriff’s Office at 785-457-3353 reference case number 2025-0748, or leave a tip on our Crime-Stoppers link at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ptsheriff.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1zvgWpDvPacP1dlQCbuek075gLZaYqWsXu3JS5EUQcIYpYCSLk20Ev3YI_aem_mPbekqwOYHHHbi0tJLKXhA&amp;h=AT3QfEfpM5o0_vr-8leyJezK-Urc8lB1pKs7kybVlgxN3aU4pLcIorJcfBSt-KJz2uQ_1LwEp8HJfiZ4_wN1aARKU2-oVU4yZPjjqxRd4tiBDNSgQdq96rXo-IN3Rnv9U9qIRcc&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT18Nu4XtL53d-6sImMUFnzjnYCuy6JGDASY-zaGAK37I8t3Kfasg2-5GeGrr9qUYd4Q3Xw3FscC1CmtGonTGs6IAVu5YgfNmkFTPObSRK3cLrhr8qzSAbscrCxVqbmclaKUL5crxPkSLraarlmhzje9ncu2s7btoHt_tkbgaOhjxnen_WjvalVuvleoDYWm6GE9vIXG6s9xDt9VNvmucJKQu70" target="_blank">www.ptsheriff.com.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740576851093.png" alt="Ocampo photo Pottawatomie Co." />
 <figcaption>Ocampo photo Pottawatomie Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an arrest.Just before 5:30a.m. February 7, the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office received a report of a burglary in progress at Brooks Yamaha, in the 8000 block of East Highway 24, Manhattan, Pottawatomie County, Kansas, according to a media release.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740582077468.png" alt="Photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure> Deputies arrived on scene and were able to determine that several subjects in a U-Haul truck had gained entry to the building and stolen multiple motorcycles before fleeing the area a few minutes later. The U-Haul truck was located in Wabaunsee County later that morning and following a pursuit by the Wabaunsee County Sheriff's Office, the U-Haul was abandoned and the driver fled on foot. Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office Detective’s responded to the scene and it was determined that the U-Haul had been stolen out of Kansas City. The stolen U-Haul and stolen motorcycles were recovered and later returned to their respective owners. Several hours later the driver was apprehended at a private residence in Shawnee County. The driver was arrested by the Kansas Highway Patrol and transported to the Wabaunsee County Jail on local charges. Pottawatomie County Sheriff Office Detectives responded to the Wabaunsee County Jail and interviewed the driver, identified as Omar Ocampo Jr., 23, of Kansas City, Missouri, and were able to determine probable cause for an arrest to be made. On February 14, the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office Detective’s picked up Ocampo from the Wabaunsee County Jail and transported him to the Pottawatomie County Jail on charges of Burglary, theft and criminal damage to property. Ocampo is being held on a bond of $100,000. Anyone with information on our case is asked to contact Sgt. Young or Detective Butler at the Sheriff’s Office at 785-457-3353 reference case number 2025-0748, or leave a tip on our Crime-Stoppers link at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ptsheriff.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1zvgWpDvPacP1dlQCbuek075gLZaYqWsXu3JS5EUQcIYpYCSLk20Ev3YI_aem_mPbekqwOYHHHbi0tJLKXhA&amp;h=AT3QfEfpM5o0_vr-8leyJezK-Urc8lB1pKs7kybVlgxN3aU4pLcIorJcfBSt-KJz2uQ_1LwEp8HJfiZ4_wN1aARKU2-oVU4yZPjjqxRd4tiBDNSgQdq96rXo-IN3Rnv9U9qIRcc&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT18Nu4XtL53d-6sImMUFnzjnYCuy6JGDASY-zaGAK37I8t3Kfasg2-5GeGrr9qUYd4Q3Xw3FscC1CmtGonTGs6IAVu5YgfNmkFTPObSRK3cLrhr8qzSAbscrCxVqbmclaKUL5crxPkSLraarlmhzje9ncu2s7btoHt_tkbgaOhjxnen_WjvalVuvleoDYWm6GE9vIXG6s9xDt9VNvmucJKQu70" target="_blank">www.ptsheriff.com.</a>

 Burglary suspect who ran from stolen U-Haul remains jailed on $100K bond

Despite playing in class 4A, the Topeka Hayden Lady Wildcats are a top team in the state of Kansas. The Lady Wildcats beat the Junction City Lady Jays 76-23 Tuesday night in Topeka.

Hayden held Junction City scoreless in the first quarter and led 25-0 at the end of one. The Lady Wildcats extended their lead before the half, but in the second quarter, the Lady Jays got on the board, knocking in three three-pointers. Hayden led at the half 41-9.

In the third quarter, both teams caught fire shooting the ball, but Hayden just continued growing their lead to 69-20 at the end of three. In the fourth quarter, it was a running clock, and the Lady Wildcats won the game 76-23.

Following the game, Hayden celebrated being the Centennial League champions with a 9-1 record in league play. The Lady Wildcats are 17-2 on the season.

Junction City falls to 1-18 with the loss and has their regular season finale on Friday night at Emporia High.

The Junction City Blue Jays entered Tuesday’s game with a two-game winning streak, their first multi-game winning streak in over a month.

The game started out with both teams turning the ball over and struggling to set in their half-court offense. Junction City sophomore Brody Boeckman caught an out-of-bounds lob pass and scored to end the first quarter, and the Blue Jays led 12-11.

The second quarter was similar to the first, with both teams playing well defensively. Junction City led 26-25 at the half.

In the third quarter, the offense picked up, and Hayden jumped ahead after three, leading 51-46.

Despite many opportunities and cutting the lead to two points early in the fourth, JC never could regain the lead and lost 75-63.

Topeka Hayden secured the season sweep over the Blue Jays.

Junction City was led in scoring by senior Ja’Twaan Williams with 15 points, junior Lovell Autry had 13 points, and senior Jackson Austin added 10.

With the loss, the Blue Jays fall to 12-7 on the year and 5-4 in league play.

Junction City will play at Emporia on Friday night to wrap up their regular season.

By Anthony GorgesJC PostGirls recapDespite playing in class 4A, the Topeka Hayden Lady Wildcats are a top team in the state of Kansas. The Lady Wildcats beat the Junction City Lady Jays 76-23 Tuesday night in Topeka.Hayden held Junction City scoreless in the first quarter and led 25-0 at the end of one. The Lady Wildcats extended their lead before the half, but in the second quarter, the Lady Jays got on the board, knocking in three three-pointers. Hayden led at the half 41-9.In the third quarter, both teams caught fire shooting the ball, but Hayden just continued growing their lead to 69-20 at the end of three. In the fourth quarter, it was a running clock, and the Lady Wildcats won the game 76-23.Following the game, Hayden celebrated being the Centennial League champions with a 9-1 record in league play. The Lady Wildcats are 17-2 on the season.Junction City falls to 1-18 with the loss and has their regular season finale on Friday night at Emporia High.Boys recapThe Junction City Blue Jays entered Tuesday’s game with a two-game winning streak, their first multi-game winning streak in over a month.The game started out with both teams turning the ball over and struggling to set in their half-court offense. Junction City sophomore Brody Boeckman caught an out-of-bounds lob pass and scored to end the first quarter, and the Blue Jays led 12-11.The second quarter was similar to the first, with both teams playing well defensively. Junction City led 26-25 at the half.In the third quarter, the offense picked up, and Hayden jumped ahead after three, leading 51-46.Despite many opportunities and cutting the lead to two points early in the fourth, JC never could regain the lead and lost 75-63.Topeka Hayden secured the season sweep over the Blue Jays.Junction City was led in scoring by senior Ja’Twaan Williams with 15 points, junior Lovell Autry had 13 points, and senior Jackson Austin added 10.With the loss, the Blue Jays fall to 12-7 on the year and 5-4 in league play.Junction City will play at Emporia on Friday night to wrap up their regular season.

Topeka Hayden secures season sweep over JC basketball

Junction City Commissioners all represent the entire community but they are expected to also consider representation by quadrants. In the past each commissioner also represented one sector of the community such as the northeast or southwest sectors.

Commissioner Richard Pinaire would like tto see the practice resurrected.

The topic was ssuggested for the next city commission meeting agenda.

New city commissioner Ricardo Gutierrez has been appointed to serve on the Chamber of Commerce board, and as an alternate for the MPO and Miltary Affairs Council committees.

Junction City Commissioners all represent the entire community but they are expected to also consider representation by quadrants. In the past each commissioner also represented one sector of the community such as the northeast or southwest sectors.Commissioner Richard Pinaire would like tto see the practice resurrected.The topic was ssuggested for the next city commission meeting agenda.---New city commissioner Ricardo Gutierrez has been appointed to serve on the Chamber of Commerce board, and as an alternate for the MPO and Miltary Affairs Council committees.

Junction City Commission news notes

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. –&nbsp;The USD 475 Parents as Teachers program, which is made up of six total Parent Educators from the district and YMCA in Junction City, has been working with USD 475 families for over 20 years.The program, which encourages parents to be an advocate for their child and focus on families who have children newborn to kindergarten within the district’s boundaries, helps parents not only gain a voice in their child’s life, but also be able to have the knowledge and foundation to be able to promote their children’s wellness, while empowering themselves to advocate for the overall needs of each family member.&nbsp;

“Our Parents as Teachers program provides support to our community’s families with young children in a variety of ways. Parent educators are trained professionals that empower families with information about their child’s development and research-based strategies in which parents can use to support their child’s learning through home visits. PAT offers group connection events that allow for families with young children to meet and interact with other families of similar aged children, while providing a network of potential support to them,” said Stephanie Waterman, USD 475 Early Childhood Program Coordinator.&nbsp;

The USD 475 Parents as Teachers program has adopted curriculum that is grounded on the latest evidence-based research. Each parent educator is professionally trained to deliver curriculum that is individualized to each child based on their developmental milestones. Support is also established by home visits, group connections, resource networks, and providing child and caregiver screenings.&nbsp;

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. –&nbsp;The USD 475 Parents as Teachers program, which is made up of six total Parent Educators from the district and YMCA in Junction City, has been working with USD 475 families for over 20 years.The program, which encourages parents to be an advocate for their child and focus on families who have children newborn to kindergarten within the district’s boundaries, helps parents not only gain a voice in their child’s life, but also be able to have the knowledge and foundation to be able to promote their children’s wellness, while empowering themselves to advocate for the overall needs of each family member.&nbsp;“Our Parents as Teachers program provides support to our community’s families with young children in a variety of ways. Parent educators are trained professionals that empower families with information about their child’s development and research-based strategies in which parents can use to support their child’s learning through home visits. PAT offers group connection events that allow for families with young children to meet and interact with other families of similar aged children, while providing a network of potential support to them,” said Stephanie Waterman, USD 475 Early Childhood Program Coordinator.&nbsp;The USD 475 Parents as Teachers program has adopted curriculum that is grounded on the latest evidence-based research. Each parent educator is professionally trained to deliver curriculum that is individualized to each child based on their developmental milestones. Support is also established by home visits, group connections, resource networks, and providing child and caregiver screenings.&nbsp;

USD 475 Parents as Teachers Program is a Success 

Riley and Geary County emergency management officials have issued a no burning requirement for Wednesday due to weather conditions.

Riley and Geary County emergency management officials have issued a no burning requirement for Wednesday due to weather conditions.

Burn bans issued in Riley and Geary counties

MORRIS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 9:30a.m. Tuesday in Morris County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Peterbilt semi driven by Robert Leroy Dauer, 74, Marquette, was eastbound on U.S. 56 approximately six miles east of Herington.

The vehicle crossed the center lane into the westbound lane. The driver was&nbsp;unable to gain control of the semi and rolled and came to rest on its side across both eastbound and westbound lanes of U.S. 56.

EMS transported Dauer to the Marion County Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

MORRIS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 9:30a.m. Tuesday in Morris County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Peterbilt semi driven by Robert Leroy Dauer, 74, Marquette, was eastbound on U.S. 56 approximately six miles east of Herington.The vehicle crossed the center lane into the westbound lane. The driver was&nbsp;unable to gain control of the semi and rolled and came to rest on its side across both eastbound and westbound lanes of U.S. 56.EMS transported Dauer to the Marion County Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after semi rolls

The Junction City Commission has approved an addendum to an original&nbsp; purchase agreement for the the former call center building on South Spring Valley Road. Highland Enterprises would pay $3,250,000 instead of an earlier original price of $3,750,000 to acquire the property if a VA grant is awarded to them.

Highland Enterprises does plan to improve the property. Needed repairs and renovations are estimated in the $1.5 to $2.3 million dollar range. Some of those repairs would include the HVAC system, parking lot, storm sewer and to the roof.

It could be several months before a grant is awarded.

The City has also moved to support the use of Industrial Revenue Bonds in an amount not to exceed” an estimated cost of the project and a $40,000 payment in lieu of taxes for ten years&nbsp;if the federal Veterans Administration offers the project to Highlands Enterprises and the 2031 South Spring Valley Road location. The City would not be liable for repayment of the IRB's.

The Junction City Commission has approved an addendum to an original&nbsp; purchase agreement for the the former call center building on South Spring Valley Road. Highland Enterprises would pay $3,250,000 instead of an earlier original price of $3,750,000 to acquire the property if a VA grant is awarded to them.Highland Enterprises does plan to improve the property. Needed repairs and renovations are estimated in the $1.5 to $2.3 million dollar range. Some of those repairs would include the HVAC system, parking lot, storm sewer and to the roof.It could be several months before a grant is awarded.The City has also moved to support the use of Industrial Revenue Bonds in an amount not to exceed” an estimated cost of the project and a $40,000 payment in lieu of taxes for ten years&nbsp;if the federal Veterans Administration offers the project to Highlands Enterprises and the 2031 South Spring Valley Road location. The City would not be liable for repayment of the IRB's.

City addresses proposed call center project

Geary County reminds us that less than two weeks away - Sunday, March 9, 2025, we "spring ahead" an hour to signal the start of Daylight Savings Time. 

This is a good opportunity to change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors too.  Maybe change out your car's emergency gear from winter to spring as well.

Geary County reminds us that less than two weeks away - Sunday, March 9, 2025, we "spring ahead" an hour to signal the start of Daylight Savings Time. This is a good opportunity to change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors too. Maybe change out your car's emergency gear from winter to spring as well.

Daylight Savings Time begins March 9

<a>On Monday, March 3, the final phase, Phase Three, of the I-70 pavement replacement project at Junction City is scheduled to begin.</a>

<a></a><a>KDOT said during the initial work, pavement grinding on westbound I-70 from mile markers 301 to 299, traffic will be reduced to one lane at the location of work.</a>

As work progresses, about March 17, median crossovers will carry all traffic at a reduced speed to the westbound lanes while deteriorated pavement is replaced in the eastbound lanes from mile markers 296 to 301.

Phase Three is scheduled to be completed by December, weather permitting. Wildcat Construction Co. Inc. and Subsidiaries, of Wichita, is the prime contractor of this $30 million project.

<a>On Monday, March 3, the final phase, Phase Three, of the I-70 pavement replacement project at Junction City is scheduled to begin.</a><a></a><a>KDOT said during the initial work, pavement grinding on westbound I-70 from mile markers 301 to 299, traffic will be reduced to one lane at the location of work.</a>As work progresses, about March 17, median crossovers will carry all traffic at a reduced speed to the westbound lanes while deteriorated pavement is replaced in the eastbound lanes from mile markers 296 to 301.Phase Three is scheduled to be completed by December, weather permitting. Wildcat Construction Co. Inc. and Subsidiaries, of Wichita, is the prime contractor of this $30 million project.