RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a March 3, shooting in Manhattan have reported an arrest.

Just after 10p.m. Monday, police in Wichita arrested 45-year-old Brannan Turner of Manhattan in connection with the shooting that took place on Flint Hills Place on Sunday, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

Wichita police were able to utilize their license plate reader technology to aid in the arrest of Turner. Through the use of license plate reader AI algorithms, they were able to narrow down the area Turner was in, making the apprehension swift and precise.

Turner is being held in Riley County on a $500,000 bond on requested charge of attempted second-degree murder, aggravated battery, aggravated assault, and felony flee and attempt to elude.&nbsp;&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a March 3, shooting in Manhattan have reported an arrest.Just after 10p.m. Monday, police in Wichita arrested 45-year-old Brannan Turner of Manhattan in connection with the shooting that took place on Flint Hills Place on Sunday, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.Wichita police were able to utilize their license plate reader technology to aid in the arrest of Turner. Through the use of license plate reader AI algorithms, they were able to narrow down the area Turner was in, making the apprehension swift and precise.Turner is being held in Riley County on a $500,000 bond on requested charge of attempted second-degree murder, aggravated battery, aggravated assault, and felony flee and attempt to elude.&nbsp;&nbsp;

License plate reader used to arrest Manhattan shooting suspect

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.

Daniel Doboyou, Possession of marijuana, arrested 03/04

Edward Slueue,&nbsp;Possession of marijuana, arrested 03/04

Elizabeth Ward, Failure to appear, arrested 03/04

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/2024/3/1709673001912.jpeg" alt="Javier Orsini, Domestic battery, arrested 03/04" />
 <figcaption>Javier Orsini, Domestic battery, arrested 03/04</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709673036970.jpeg" alt="Christopher Crotchett, Possession of controlled substance, Unlawful acts, Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked, arrested 03/04" />
 <figcaption>Christopher Crotchett, Possession of controlled substance, Unlawful acts, Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked, arrested 03/04</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709673106110.jpeg" alt="Chasity Blocker, Failure to appear, arrested 03/04" />
 <figcaption>Chasity Blocker, Failure to appear, arrested 03/04</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709673145809.jpeg" alt="Bryan Dame, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution, Resisting arrest, Assault of a law enforcement officer, Driver's license cancelled/suspended/revoked, DUI-Liquor/drugs, arrested 03/05" />
 <figcaption>Bryan Dame, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution, Resisting arrest, Assault of a law enforcement officer, Driver's license cancelled/suspended/revoked, DUI-Liquor/drugs, arrested 03/05</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Daniel Doboyou, Possession of marijuana, arrested 03/04Edward Slueue,&nbsp;Possession of marijuana, arrested 03/04Elizabeth Ward, Failure to appear, arrested 03/04Recent 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 March 5

TOPEKA–The 2024 Rally for Medicaid Expansion will take place at the Kansas Statehouse in Topeka on Wednesday, March 6. Kansans from all over the state are invited to attend.&nbsp;

Governor Laura Kelly will be the headline speaker at the rally, which will begin at 12:30 p.m. in the 2nd floor rotunda of the Kansas Statehouse. Attendance is open to anyone, and attendees are also encouraged to meet with their elected representatives while at the Statehouse. Attendees are encouraged to&nbsp;<a href="https://expandkancare.com/event/2024-rally/">RSVP on the Alliance website</a>&nbsp;to stay up-to-date with the latest information.

Free buses will be available to take people to the Statehouse, with one&nbsp;<a href="https://expandkancare.com/event/2024-kc-rally-bus/">bus coming from Kansas City</a>&nbsp;and another from&nbsp;<a href="https://expandkancare.com/event/2024-wichita-rally-bus/">Wichita, with stops in North Newton and Emporia</a>. Those interested in riding the bus should reserve their spot online or by calling (785) 861-7891. Space is limited.

The Kansas House has not held a public hearing on KanCare expansion since 2017; the Kansas Senate since 2020. Legislative leaders have said that they will hold public hearings in both Chambers this year, though no dates have yet been announced.

<a href="https://sunflowerfoundation.org/statewide-poll-on-medicaid-expansion/">A poll released by the Sunflower Foundation last week&nbsp;</a>confirmed that a majority of Kansans support Medicaid expansion, including 78% of informed voters and 83% of small business owners.

For more information, visit the Alliance for a Healthy Kansas website at <a href="http://ExpandKanCare.com">ExpandKanCare.com</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672834016116.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedTOPEKA–The 2024 Rally for Medicaid Expansion will take place at the Kansas Statehouse in Topeka on Wednesday, March 6. Kansans from all over the state are invited to attend.&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly will be the headline speaker at the rally, which will begin at 12:30 p.m. in the 2nd floor rotunda of the Kansas Statehouse. Attendance is open to anyone, and attendees are also encouraged to meet with their elected representatives while at the Statehouse. Attendees are encouraged to&nbsp;<a href="https://expandkancare.com/event/2024-rally/">RSVP on the Alliance website</a>&nbsp;to stay up-to-date with the latest information.Free buses will be available to take people to the Statehouse, with one&nbsp;<a href="https://expandkancare.com/event/2024-kc-rally-bus/">bus coming from Kansas City</a>&nbsp;and another from&nbsp;<a href="https://expandkancare.com/event/2024-wichita-rally-bus/">Wichita, with stops in North Newton and Emporia</a>. Those interested in riding the bus should reserve their spot online or by calling (785) 861-7891. Space is limited.The Kansas House has not held a public hearing on KanCare expansion since 2017; the Kansas Senate since 2020. Legislative leaders have said that they will hold public hearings in both Chambers this year, though no dates have yet been announced.<a href="https://sunflowerfoundation.org/statewide-poll-on-medicaid-expansion/">A poll released by the Sunflower Foundation last week&nbsp;</a>confirmed that a majority of Kansans support Medicaid expansion, including 78% of informed voters and 83% of small business owners.For more information, visit the Alliance for a Healthy Kansas website at <a href="http://ExpandKanCare.com">ExpandKanCare.com</a>.&nbsp;

2024 Rally for Medicaid Expansion set for March 6 at Kansas Statehouse 

The National Weather Service has scheduled the annual statewide tornado drill at 11 a.m. Wednesday. Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges said warning sirens will sound as part of the drill.

Severe weather information and safety tips can be found at this <a href="https://www.gearycounty.org/165/Severe-Weather">LINK</a>.

The annual severe weather and storm spotter training session sponsored by Geary County Emergency Management is also scheduled Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. at the 4-H / Senior Center.

There is no cost to attend and no registration is needed. This is open to the public.

The National Weather Service has scheduled the annual statewide tornado drill at 11 a.m. Wednesday. Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges said warning sirens will sound as part of the drill.Severe weather information and safety tips can be found at this <a href="https://www.gearycounty.org/165/Severe-Weather">LINK</a>.In a related story:The annual severe weather and storm spotter training session sponsored by Geary County Emergency Management is also scheduled Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. at the 4-H / Senior Center.There is no cost to attend and no registration is needed. This is open to the public.

Statewide Tornado Safety Drill will be held Wednesday

After a very chilly January I doubt that anyone was disappointed to see above average February temperatures. Those temperatures were not only above average for February, but they were also slightly above average for March as well! Unfortunately, the warmer temperatures appear to have also brought back the lack of precipitation that the area experienced through much of 2023. The average daily high in February was 56.8, 12.2 degrees above normal. The average overnight low was 33.2, 10.8 degrees above normal. This resulted in a monthly mean temperature of 45.0 degrees, 11.5 degrees above normal. 

February 2024 was the second warmest February on record, only surpassed by February of 1954 which had a monthly mean temperature of 46.3. The coldest February on record was in 1979 with a very cold monthly mean temperature of 17.6. The highest temperature for the month was 80 degrees on February 26th. The coldest temperature for the month was the morning low of 11 on the 17th. There were numerous temperature records set during the month, most were record high, low temperatures. 

The high of 80 on the 26th set a new record high for that date. The previous record was 74 set in 1988. The overnight low of 49 on the 1st broke the old record high low of 43 set in 2019; the low of 45 on the 2nd broke the old record high low of 40 set in 1964; the low of 45 on the 3rd broke the old record high low of 40 also set in 1964; the low of 48 on the 7th broke the old record high low of 35 set in 1999; and the low of 50 on the 8th broke the old record high low of 40 set in 1960.February brings an end to meteorological winter (December, January and February). The winter seasonal mean temperature was 35.7, 4.5 degrees above normal. It was the 7th warmest winter season on record. The warmest was 1991-92 with a mean temperature of 37.9. It should be noted, however, that with records dating back to the late 1940s, five of the seven warmest winters have occurred since 2004. The coldest winter on record was 1978-79 with a seasonal mean temperature of 19.1. Five of our seven coldest winters occurred from 1978 through 1985.

A precipitation event the first week of February accounted for nearly all of our monthly precipitation. Average precipitation for February is 1.10 inches but we only saw 0.77 inches. Fortunately January precipitation was well above average so year to date the area has received 2.64 inches, well above normal for the first two months of the year of 1.83 inches. After a very snowy January, the area saw very little February snow. A two day snowfall event mid month provided less than three quarters of an inch of snow. Snow season to date, however, the region has received 17.1 inches, well above the 14.1 inches we average through February and almost up to our seasonal average of 18.0 inches.&nbsp;

March brings us the start of astronomical spring on the 19th, and also starts to move us into our wetter time of the year with spring and early summer. Average precipitation for March is 2.00 inches with a long term average of 3 inches of snow during the month. Afternoon highs start the month at 50 and by the end of the month should be reaching 62. Overnight lows range from 26 on the 1st up to 38 on the 31st.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Chuck Otte&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;cotte@ksu.edu

After a very chilly January I doubt that anyone was disappointed to see above average February temperatures. Those temperatures were not only above average for February, but they were also slightly above average for March as well! Unfortunately, the warmer temperatures appear to have also brought back the lack of precipitation that the area experienced through much of 2023. The average daily high in February was 56.8, 12.2 degrees above normal. The average overnight low was 33.2, 10.8 degrees above normal. This resulted in a monthly mean temperature of 45.0 degrees, 11.5 degrees above normal. February 2024 was the second warmest February on record, only surpassed by February of 1954 which had a monthly mean temperature of 46.3. The coldest February on record was in 1979 with a very cold monthly mean temperature of 17.6. The highest temperature for the month was 80 degrees on February 26th. The coldest temperature for the month was the morning low of 11 on the 17th. There were numerous temperature records set during the month, most were record high, low temperatures. The high of 80 on the 26th set a new record high for that date. The previous record was 74 set in 1988. The overnight low of 49 on the 1st broke the old record high low of 43 set in 2019; the low of 45 on the 2nd broke the old record high low of 40 set in 1964; the low of 45 on the 3rd broke the old record high low of 40 also set in 1964; the low of 48 on the 7th broke the old record high low of 35 set in 1999; and the low of 50 on the 8th broke the old record high low of 40 set in 1960.February brings an end to meteorological winter (December, January and February). The winter seasonal mean temperature was 35.7, 4.5 degrees above normal. It was the 7th warmest winter season on record. The warmest was 1991-92 with a mean temperature of 37.9. It should be noted, however, that with records dating back to the late 1940s, five of the seven warmest winters have occurred since 2004. The coldest winter on record was 1978-79 with a seasonal mean temperature of 19.1. Five of our seven coldest winters occurred from 1978 through 1985.A precipitation event the first week of February accounted for nearly all of our monthly precipitation. Average precipitation for February is 1.10 inches but we only saw 0.77 inches. Fortunately January precipitation was well above average so year to date the area has received 2.64 inches, well above normal for the first two months of the year of 1.83 inches. After a very snowy January, the area saw very little February snow. A two day snowfall event mid month provided less than three quarters of an inch of snow. Snow season to date, however, the region has received 17.1 inches, well above the 14.1 inches we average through February and almost up to our seasonal average of 18.0 inches.&nbsp;March brings us the start of astronomical spring on the 19th, and also starts to move us into our wetter time of the year with spring and early summer. Average precipitation for March is 2.00 inches with a long term average of 3 inches of snow during the month. Afternoon highs start the month at 50 and by the end of the month should be reaching 62. Overnight lows range from 26 on the 1st up to 38 on the 31st.&nbsp; &nbsp;Chuck Otte&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;cotte@ksu.eduCounty Extension Agent, Retired

February 2024 Junction City Area Weather Summary

ESU, PSU and FHSU make bold pitch for special $3 million bailouts

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/03/04/sparks-fly-when-kansas-house-budget-panel-explores-detail-of-university-budget-requests/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas House’s budget committee delivered bipartisan condemnation Monday of unusual $3 million payouts to Emporia State University, Fort Hays State University and Pittsburg State University intended to stabilize campus operating budgets during a period of enrollment decline and rising costs.

The funding request, which had been previously rejected by Gov. Laura Kelly, was submitted by the Kansas Board of Regents’ three smaller-sized universities. Those campus leaders were emboldened by the 2023 Legislature’s decision to write ESU an extraordinary $9 million check amid a nearly 20% enrollment drop over five years. ESU had been in the spotlight for using a COVID-19-era emergency policy to jettison tenured faculty, slash core academic programs and impose a new business “model” of higher education.

Rep. Brenda Landwehr, a Wichita Republican, proposed a budget amendment during the House Appropriations Committee meeting to delete the $3 million gratuities to ESU, FHSU and PSU. Landwehr’s motion failed along with a more modest “parachute” amendment from Rep. Henry Helgerson, a Wichita Democrat. He wanted to link $1.5 million payments to the three universities to a demand that administrators outline a plan for what was to be accomplished with the cash.

“We plugged a hole with Emporia State last year,” said Landwehr, referring to the $9 million presented to ESU. “Now, we’re back because all the others are like, ‘Hey, if Emporia State can get this, then we should get something too to help right-size us or stabilize us.’ It’s a slippery slope.”

Helgerson’s blunt inquiry: “How long do we subsidize them?”

Rep. Steven Howe, the Salina Republican who chaired the House’s Higher Education Budget Committee, said the state’s six public universities were working to find a balance between academic offerings, student enrollment and workplace demands. He said the state invested heavily over the generations to create quality public universities, but those institutions needed time to hit reorganizational targets.

“I would hate to just pull out the rug, per se, and not give them the fighting chance,” Howe said. “We have good leadership amongst our institutions and I feel like they’re willing to make the difficult decisions ahead.”

The House Appropriations Committee decided to leave in place — for now — another $9 million installment of the subsidy to ESU. The committee also — for now — chose not to derail the $3 million supplemental payments to ESU, FHSU and PSU.

The budget committee postponed until end of the 2024 legislative session a recommendation to devote $15 million for renovation of a FHSU building to accommodate more nursing students. Questions were raised about whether student demand for Kansas nursing degrees warranted the project.

The budget blueprint for higher education, which will continue to take shape Tuesday in the appropriations committee, included $75 million in state support for the University of Kansas Medical Center’s plan to build a cancer research and treatment building. The half-billion-dollar project on the KUMC campus in Kansas City, Kansas, previously received a $100 million private donation and $43 million in federal funding.

In addition, the committee voted to delete ESU’s request for $4.6 million to pay off an “internal” university loan made in 2015 for residence hall construction. In 2018, ESU issued bonds for more housing projects. The steep decline in student enrollment and shrinking demand for on-campus housing meant the loan obligation couldn’t be repaid unless housing rates were increased to unreasonable levels.

Rep. Troy Waymaster, a Bunker Hill Republican and chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, said it didn’t make sense ESU expected state taxpayers to pay a price for the university’s mistakes in the student housing market at the same time ESU asked the Legislature to approve $10.2 million in new bonds for energy efficiency projects in campus buildings.

His ire was directed at ESU’s assumption the Legislature would let the university dump bad debt on taxpayers.

“I found it somewhat hypocritical,” Waymaster said. “If this is an internal loan, why are we paying it off with state general fund? It’s a valid question. Why are we paying it off with state general fund dollars?”

In September 2022, the Kansas Board of Regents approved ESU’s “model” for restructuring the university and delivering stability to the university’s budget. The authority was relied upon by President Ken Hush when dismissing 30 tenured or tenure-track faculty. The university gutted English, journalism, history and debate programs, but expanded from four academic schools to seven schools and invested in programs in nursing, computer science, art, music and cybersecurity.

The policy used by ESU to initiate the transformation didn’t speak to the necessity of multimillion-dollar bailouts by the Republican-controlled Legislature and the state’s Democratic governor. At conclusion of the 2023 session, however, House Speaker Dan Hawkins, R-Wichita, lauded the Legislature’s decision to earmark $9 million for ESU. He said management changes at ESU were “the way forward for all higher education institutions in our state.”

Rep. Stephen Owens, a Hesston Republican, challenged the $3 million handouts to ESU, PSU and FHSU.

“I just don’t know that it’s our responsibility to stabilize these universities,” he said. “We like to have conversations around here, but sometimes we don’t like to have the really hard conversations that exist. Nobody wants to make the hard decisions to say, ‘Well, we have X amount of universities and maybe we need one less because of declining population.'”

He said there was no motivation for government-funded entities to find the sweet spot in terms of budgeting, because the system allowed each to simply demand more from taxpayers.

Landwehr, who unsuccessfully sought deletion of the $3 million tips, said she was perplexed that the $9 million earmark last year for ESU didn’t appear to have made a difference. Originally, ESU said it would need $9 million infusions of cash in three consecutive years.

“You can’t keep cherry picking different universities on what we’re going to come in and do special things for,” Landwehrs said.

The supplemental earmarks of $3 million, or at least half that amount, had defenders on both sides of the aisle during the House committee debate on higher education spending.

Rep. Ken Rahjes, a Republican from Agra, said regional universities had plans for working through budget challenges even if the full scope of those strategies weren’t presented to the House Higher Education Budget Committee chaired by Howe.

“Did they write it in Crayon? Did they print it out for us? There was a plan.” Rahjes said. “I trust the system. I trust the process. I trust my chairman.”

Democratic Rep. Barbara Ballard of Lawrence said larger universities, such as Kansas State University or University of Kansas, had substantial budgets and more wiggle room to reimagine themselves when money got tight. Ballard, currently the longest-serving House member, said she recalled a time when the Legislature provided nearly half of state university budgets, but that measure had fallen to about one-fourth.

“I don’t know what the answer is, but whenever we don’t like something or we can’t understand it, we just pull the funding,” Ballard said.

Rep. Bill Sutton, R-Gardner, said he found it somewhat amusing House legislators were castigating universities for not preparing for difficulties consistent with the anticipated decline in the college-age population.

He asked peers on the House committee whether the Legislature prepared for disruption of COVID-19, which he referred to as a flu, by setting aside significant cash reserves.

“We did not and we gladly accepted … $34 billion from the federal government to bail us out because we didn’t have a rainy-day fund,” Sutton said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709651763578.jpeg" alt="Rep. Henry Helgerson, D-Wichita, failed to interest the House Appropriations Committee in a motion to slice in half the unusual $3 million budget bailout payments to Emporia State University, Fort Hays State University and Pittsburg State University due to declining enrollments. Despite the committee vote, there were strong reservations among Republicans to appropriate state tax dollars to "stabilize" these university budgets. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Henry Helgerson, D-Wichita, failed to interest the House Appropriations Committee in a motion to slice in half the unusual $3 million budget bailout payments to Emporia State University, Fort Hays State University and Pittsburg State University due to declining enrollments. Despite the committee vote, there were strong reservations among Republicans to appropriate state tax dollars to "stabilize" these university budgets. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>ESU, PSU and FHSU make bold pitch for special $3 million bailouts</h2>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/03/04/sparks-fly-when-kansas-house-budget-panel-explores-detail-of-university-budget-requests/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas House’s budget committee delivered bipartisan condemnation Monday of unusual $3 million payouts to Emporia State University, Fort Hays State University and Pittsburg State University intended to stabilize campus operating budgets during a period of enrollment decline and rising costs.The funding request, which had been previously rejected by Gov. Laura Kelly, was submitted by the Kansas Board of Regents’ three smaller-sized universities. Those campus leaders were emboldened by the 2023 Legislature’s decision to write ESU an extraordinary $9 million check amid a nearly 20% enrollment drop over five years. ESU had been in the spotlight for using a COVID-19-era emergency policy to jettison tenured faculty, slash core academic programs and impose a new business “model” of higher education.Rep. Brenda Landwehr, a Wichita Republican, proposed a budget amendment during the House Appropriations Committee meeting to delete the $3 million gratuities to ESU, FHSU and PSU. Landwehr’s motion failed along with a more modest “parachute” amendment from Rep. Henry Helgerson, a Wichita Democrat. He wanted to link $1.5 million payments to the three universities to a demand that administrators outline a plan for what was to be accomplished with the cash.“We plugged a hole with Emporia State last year,” said Landwehr, referring to the $9 million presented to ESU. “Now, we’re back because all the others are like, ‘Hey, if Emporia State can get this, then we should get something too to help right-size us or stabilize us.’ It’s a slippery slope.”Helgerson’s blunt inquiry: “How long do we subsidize them?”Rep. Steven Howe, the Salina Republican who chaired the House’s Higher Education Budget Committee, said the state’s six public universities were working to find a balance between academic offerings, student enrollment and workplace demands. He said the state invested heavily over the generations to create quality public universities, but those institutions needed time to hit reorganizational targets.“I would hate to just pull out the rug, per se, and not give them the fighting chance,” Howe said. “We have good leadership amongst our institutions and I feel like they’re willing to make the difficult decisions ahead.”The House Appropriations Committee decided to leave in place — for now — another $9 million installment of the subsidy to ESU. The committee also — for now — chose not to derail the $3 million supplemental payments to ESU, FHSU and PSU.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709651878192.jpeg" alt="Rep. Brenda Landwehr, R-Wichita, proposed the House Appropriations Committee drop $3 million payments to three public universities struggling with enrollment declines. She argued the bailouts set a bad precedent and would lead to an avalanche of university demands for more tax dollars. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Brenda Landwehr, R-Wichita, proposed the House Appropriations Committee drop $3 million payments to three public universities struggling with enrollment declines. She argued the bailouts set a bad precedent and would lead to an avalanche of university demands for more tax dollars. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>‘Somewhat hypocritical’</h2>The budget committee postponed until end of the 2024 legislative session a recommendation to devote $15 million for renovation of a FHSU building to accommodate more nursing students. Questions were raised about whether student demand for Kansas nursing degrees warranted the project.The budget blueprint for higher education, which will continue to take shape Tuesday in the appropriations committee, included $75 million in state support for the University of Kansas Medical Center’s plan to build a cancer research and treatment building. The half-billion-dollar project on the KUMC campus in Kansas City, Kansas, previously received a $100 million private donation and $43 million in federal funding.In addition, the committee voted to delete ESU’s request for $4.6 million to pay off an “internal” university loan made in 2015 for residence hall construction. In 2018, ESU issued bonds for more housing projects. The steep decline in student enrollment and shrinking demand for on-campus housing meant the loan obligation couldn’t be repaid unless housing rates were increased to unreasonable levels.Rep. Troy Waymaster, a Bunker Hill Republican and chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, said it didn’t make sense ESU expected state taxpayers to pay a price for the university’s mistakes in the student housing market at the same time ESU asked the Legislature to approve $10.2 million in new bonds for energy efficiency projects in campus buildings.His ire was directed at ESU’s assumption the Legislature would let the university dump bad debt on taxpayers.“I found it somewhat hypocritical,” Waymaster said. “If this is an internal loan, why are we paying it off with state general fund? It’s a valid question. Why are we paying it off with state general fund dollars?”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709651958239.jpeg" alt="Rep. Troy Waymaster, a Bunker Hill Republican who chairs the House Appropriations Committee, said it would be improper for taxpayers to pay off a $5 million “internal” loan by Emporia State University for student housing construction. ESU requested financial relief amid an enrollment collapse. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Troy Waymaster, a Bunker Hill Republican who chairs the House Appropriations Committee, said it would be improper for taxpayers to pay off a $5 million “internal” loan by Emporia State University for student housing construction. ESU requested financial relief amid an enrollment collapse. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The ESU bubble</h2>In September 2022, the Kansas Board of Regents approved ESU’s “model” for restructuring the university and delivering stability to the university’s budget. The authority was relied upon by President Ken Hush when dismissing 30 tenured or tenure-track faculty. The university gutted English, journalism, history and debate programs, but expanded from four academic schools to seven schools and invested in programs in nursing, computer science, art, music and cybersecurity.The policy used by ESU to initiate the transformation didn’t speak to the necessity of multimillion-dollar bailouts by the Republican-controlled Legislature and the state’s Democratic governor. At conclusion of the 2023 session, however, House Speaker Dan Hawkins, R-Wichita, lauded the Legislature’s decision to earmark $9 million for ESU. He said management changes at ESU were “the way forward for all higher education institutions in our state.”Rep. Stephen Owens, a Hesston Republican, challenged the $3 million handouts to ESU, PSU and FHSU.“I just don’t know that it’s our responsibility to stabilize these universities,” he said. “We like to have conversations around here, but sometimes we don’t like to have the really hard conversations that exist. Nobody wants to make the hard decisions to say, ‘Well, we have X amount of universities and maybe we need one less because of declining population.'”He said there was no motivation for government-funded entities to find the sweet spot in terms of budgeting, because the system allowed each to simply demand more from taxpayers.Landwehr, who unsuccessfully sought deletion of the $3 million tips, said she was perplexed that the $9 million earmark last year for ESU didn’t appear to have made a difference. Originally, ESU said it would need $9 million infusions of cash in three consecutive years.“You can’t keep cherry picking different universities on what we’re going to come in and do special things for,” Landwehrs said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709652057990.jpeg" alt="Rep. Barbara Ballard, D-Lawrence, said the state’s three smaller public universities might need supplemental funding because those campuses had less wiggle room to adjust expenditures when money got tight. She said FHSU, ESU and PSU were significant pieces of local economies. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Barbara Ballard, D-Lawrence, said the state’s three smaller public universities might need supplemental funding because those campuses had less wiggle room to adjust expenditures when money got tight. She said FHSU, ESU and PSU were significant pieces of local economies. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Crayons, and the amused</h2>The supplemental earmarks of $3 million, or at least half that amount, had defenders on both sides of the aisle during the House committee debate on higher education spending.Rep. Ken Rahjes, a Republican from Agra, said regional universities had plans for working through budget challenges even if the full scope of those strategies weren’t presented to the House Higher Education Budget Committee chaired by Howe.“Did they write it in Crayon? Did they print it out for us? There was a plan.” Rahjes said. “I trust the system. I trust the process. I trust my chairman.”Democratic Rep. Barbara Ballard of Lawrence said larger universities, such as Kansas State University or University of Kansas, had substantial budgets and more wiggle room to reimagine themselves when money got tight. Ballard, currently the longest-serving House member, said she recalled a time when the Legislature provided nearly half of state university budgets, but that measure had fallen to about one-fourth.“I don’t know what the answer is, but whenever we don’t like something or we can’t understand it, we just pull the funding,” Ballard said.Rep. Bill Sutton, R-Gardner, said he found it somewhat amusing House legislators were castigating universities for not preparing for difficulties consistent with the anticipated decline in the college-age population.He asked peers on the House committee whether the Legislature prepared for disruption of COVID-19, which he referred to as a flu, by setting aside significant cash reserves.“We did not and we gladly accepted … $34 billion from the federal government to bail us out because we didn’t have a rainy-day fund,” Sutton said.

Sparks fly when Kansas House budget panel explores detail of university budget requests, including from FHSU

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged criminal damage to property in Riley County.

Just before 2:30p.m. Monday, officers filed a report for criminal damage to property in the 1200 block of Green-Randolph Road in Randolph, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 39-year-old man reported an unknown suspect damaged his 2003 John Deere Model 7810 tractor by plugging a coolant line to the air cooler with a rifle shell casing.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged criminal damage to property in Riley County.Just before 2:30p.m. Monday, officers filed a report for criminal damage to property in the 1200 block of Green-Randolph Road in Randolph, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 39-year-old man reported an unknown suspect damaged his 2003 John Deere Model 7810 tractor by plugging a coolant line to the air cooler with a rifle shell casing.

RCPD investigating criminal damage to $32K farm tractor

TOPEKA, KAN. –A federal grand jury in Topeka returned an indictment charging a Kansas couple with fraudulently obtaining disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), according to the United State's Attorney.

According to court documents, James Bradford, 47, and Equanda Bradford, 45, of Junction City are charged with one count of conspiracy and one count of theft of public money, property, or records.

James Bradford, a U.S. Army veteran, and his wife Equanda are accused of providing false and fraudulent information to the VA, about his caregiver needs and her caregiving functions resulting in the receipt of $172,426 in disability compensation to which they were not entitled.

The Department of Veterans Affairs - Office of Inspector General and the General Services Administration - Office of Inspector General are investigating the case.

TOPEKA, KAN. –A federal grand jury in Topeka returned an indictment charging a Kansas couple with fraudulently obtaining disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), according to the United State's Attorney.According to court documents, James Bradford, 47, and Equanda Bradford, 45, of Junction City are charged with one count of conspiracy and one count of theft of public money, property, or records.James Bradford, a U.S. Army veteran, and his wife Equanda are accused of providing false and fraudulent information to the VA, about his caregiver needs and her caregiving functions resulting in the receipt of $172,426 in disability compensation to which they were not entitled.The Department of Veterans Affairs - Office of Inspector General and the General Services Administration - Office of Inspector General are investigating the case.

Junction City couple accused of stealing $172K in VA benefits 

The Kansas Chamber and Kansas Chamber Education Foundation Friday announced the 40 Kansans chosen for&nbsp;2024 Leadership Kansas&nbsp;class.

As one of the oldest and most prestigious statewide leadership programs in the country, Leadership Kansas, or LK, is focused on developing and motivating Kansas leaders from across the state.

"Since 1979, LK&nbsp;has fostered greater awareness and understanding of statewide economic, business, and political issues among the leaders of our state.&nbsp;LK alumni have gone on to key leadership roles at the local, state, and national levels," said Kansas Chamber President &amp; CEO Alan Cobb (LK '21). "The Chamber and Foundation are excited to welcome the newest class and wish them the best during their eight month journey learning more about our great state."

Leadership Kansas received more than 500 nominations for the 2024 program. After a thorough&nbsp;and thoughtful application and selection process, the selection committee made of LK alumni chose 40 individuals for the 2024 class.&nbsp;The committee makes every effort to ensure the class reflects the state in regard to geographic, ethnic, occupational, and gender diversity.&nbsp;

The 2024 program runs April to November and includes visits to Dodge City, Garden City, Hays, Kansas City, Kan., Leavenworth, Lawrence, Lenexa, Manhattan, Pittsburg, Salina, Topeka, and Wichita.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The class will interact with a variety of experts and community leaders through three-day educational training sessions. The diverse discussion topics include business, education, agriculture, public policy, societal health, economic development, and government.&nbsp;

"Leadership Kansas is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,"&nbsp;said LK Executive Director Aaron Miller (LK '16).&nbsp;"Participants meet many of Kansas’ distinguished business and government leaders and become stronger leaders, better prepared to contribute to their communities and our state."

Leadership KansasThe Kansas Chamber and Kansas Chamber Education Foundation Friday announced the 40 Kansans chosen for&nbsp;2024 Leadership Kansas&nbsp;class.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709639011961.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As one of the oldest and most prestigious statewide leadership programs in the country, Leadership Kansas, or LK, is focused on developing and motivating Kansas leaders from across the state."Since 1979, LK&nbsp;has fostered greater awareness and understanding of statewide economic, business, and political issues among the leaders of our state.&nbsp;LK alumni have gone on to key leadership roles at the local, state, and national levels," said Kansas Chamber President &amp; CEO Alan Cobb (LK '21). "The Chamber and Foundation are excited to welcome the newest class and wish them the best during their eight month journey learning more about our great state."Leadership Kansas received more than 500 nominations for the 2024 program. After a thorough&nbsp;and thoughtful application and selection process, the selection committee made of LK alumni chose 40 individuals for the 2024 class.&nbsp;The committee makes every effort to ensure the class reflects the state in regard to geographic, ethnic, occupational, and gender diversity.&nbsp;The 2024 program runs April to November and includes visits to Dodge City, Garden City, Hays, Kansas City, Kan., Leavenworth, Lawrence, Lenexa, Manhattan, Pittsburg, Salina, Topeka, and Wichita.&nbsp;&nbsp;The class will interact with a variety of experts and community leaders through three-day educational training sessions. The diverse discussion topics include business, education, agriculture, public policy, societal health, economic development, and government.&nbsp;"Leadership Kansas is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,"&nbsp;said LK Executive Director Aaron Miller (LK '16).&nbsp;"Participants meet many of Kansas’ distinguished business and government leaders and become stronger leaders, better prepared to contribute to their communities and our state."

Area residents included in 2024 Leadership Kansas class

One information item on the Geary USD 475&nbsp; Board of Education meeting agenda Monday evening included included the possibility being considered by staff to flip the secondary school starting and ending times for the 2024-2025 year. The topic was a discussion item on the Board's agenda but the BOE will not be required to vote on the times

Junction City High School students would attend class from 7:40 a.m. until 2:55 p.m. while Junction City and Fort Riley Middle School students would attend from 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Those times are nearly the opposite right now with the high school going from 8:15 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. and middle schools from 7:40 a.m. to 3:55 p.m.&nbsp;

During a discussion with the Board, the Director of Secondary Education, Kate Stewart, noted that the league is kind of falling apart and officials are looking at another league which would require Junction City to travel a lot farther to athletic events.&nbsp; So far this year JCHS students have already missed approximately 1,800 hours of school time for activities and athletics. That caused officials to look at data which indicated starting and ending times haven't been revised for 10 years with the exception of a few minor adjustments. Flipping the middle and high school times for next year would essentially be the plan. Elementary school times would remain the same.

Board member Dr. Beth Hudson remembered the discussions 10 years ago that led to a change to the current starting times. Students were missing and some weren't coming to school because they were tired.&nbsp;

Board member Jason Butler felt with the earlier high school dismissal time that would leave more time for students at home in the evening for academics and family.&nbsp;

Other key points from the discussion included:

--JCHS students are currently traveling much farther than ever before for activities.

--High school students could possibly be at home when middle school students arrive or they could pick them up after school.

--There needs to be an approximate 50 minute gap between starting and ending times between the high school and middle schools.

JC Post also checked with JCHS Interim Athletic Director Chris Bogenhagen about the league angle. In recent years the Centennial League has lost some teams but there is no push by Junction City to look at another conference. There is always interest in expanding the conference.&nbsp;

Because of the loss of some schools from the Centennial League, Junction City teams are having to travel farther for some of their athletic events. Examples could include trips to schools in western Kansas and Wichita. The possible earlier starting time for JCHS would help keep students in class more often.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostOne information item on the Geary USD 475&nbsp; Board of Education meeting agenda Monday evening included included the possibility being considered by staff to flip the secondary school starting and ending times for the 2024-2025 year. The topic was a discussion item on the Board's agenda but the BOE will not be required to vote on the timesJunction City High School students would attend class from 7:40 a.m. until 2:55 p.m. while Junction City and Fort Riley Middle School students would attend from 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Those times are nearly the opposite right now with the high school going from 8:15 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. and middle schools from 7:40 a.m. to 3:55 p.m.&nbsp;During a discussion with the Board, the Director of Secondary Education, Kate Stewart, noted that the league is kind of falling apart and officials are looking at another league which would require Junction City to travel a lot farther to athletic events.&nbsp; So far this year JCHS students have already missed approximately 1,800 hours of school time for activities and athletics. That caused officials to look at data which indicated starting and ending times haven't been revised for 10 years with the exception of a few minor adjustments. Flipping the middle and high school times for next year would essentially be the plan. Elementary school times would remain the same.Board member Dr. Beth Hudson remembered the discussions 10 years ago that led to a change to the current starting times. Students were missing and some weren't coming to school because they were tired.&nbsp;Board member Jason Butler felt with the earlier high school dismissal time that would leave more time for students at home in the evening for academics and family.&nbsp;Other key points from the discussion included:--JCHS students are currently traveling much farther than ever before for activities.--High school students could possibly be at home when middle school students arrive or they could pick them up after school.--There needs to be an approximate 50 minute gap between starting and ending times between the high school and middle schools.JC Post also checked with JCHS Interim Athletic Director Chris Bogenhagen about the league angle. In recent years the Centennial League has lost some teams but there is no push by Junction City to look at another conference. There is always interest in expanding the conference.&nbsp;Because of the loss of some schools from the Centennial League, Junction City teams are having to travel farther for some of their athletic events. Examples could include trips to schools in western Kansas and Wichita. The possible earlier starting time for JCHS would help keep students in class more often.

BOE receives an update on possible school starting and ending time changes

In the weekly City 515 report Junction City Finance Director Lindsay Miller noted that last week the city received sales tax revenues for the month of February. The total amount received was $1,240,159.21. The ranking for this increment was 8th best on record. This means that City sales tax for the month were the 2nd best on record. 

County Sales tax were also 2nd best for the month. Then there was use tax which was the 3rd best on record for this tax type and the best for the month of February. The increment from February 2024 was less than the amount for February 2023, so we saw a decrease of 2.62% from last February. Budget wise, things are looking good and officials are hopeful this will hold.

In the weekly City 515 report Junction City Finance Director Lindsay Miller noted that last week the city received sales tax revenues for the month of February. The total amount received was $1,240,159.21. The ranking for this increment was 8th best on record. This means that City sales tax for the month were the 2nd best on record. County Sales tax were also 2nd best for the month. Then there was use tax which was the 3rd best on record for this tax type and the best for the month of February. The increment from February 2024 was less than the amount for February 2023, so we saw a decrease of 2.62% from last February. Budget wise, things are looking good and officials are hopeful this will hold.

Sales tax revenues are updated

Geary County Commissioners were notified Monday about 2024 Change of Value notices.&nbsp; They were sent out to the public this past Friday.

According to Travis Lilly, County Appraiser,&nbsp; the value residential property increased 4.6% while commercial property decreased 1%. The total real property increase was calculated at 3.1%. Other Kansas counties with similar increases were mentioned.

The average residential value was calculated at $183,900.&nbsp;There was about one million dollars in new construction. A lot of houses were built during the past year.&nbsp;

Valuations are not climbing as fast as they used to in Geary County.

Geary County Commissioners were notified Monday about 2024 Change of Value notices.&nbsp; They were sent out to the public this past Friday.According to Travis Lilly, County Appraiser,&nbsp; the value residential property increased 4.6% while commercial property decreased 1%. The total real property increase was calculated at 3.1%. Other Kansas counties with similar increases were mentioned.The average residential value was calculated at $183,900.&nbsp;There was about one million dollars in new construction. A lot of houses were built during the past year.&nbsp;Valuations are not climbing as fast as they used to in Geary County.

Change of value notices have been sent out 

Johnny Cole, Outside warrant, arrested 03/01

Nicole Gary, Domestic battery, arrested 03/02

Falon Barnes, Failure to appear, arrested 03/02

Dwight Reid, Failure to appear, Possession of controlled substance, Use/possess with intent to use paraphernalia into human body, arrested 03/02

Karli Nieman, Failure to appear, arrested 03/02

Simon Cheatham, Minor in possession/consumption of alcoholic beverage, Transporting an open container of alcohol, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 03/02

Albino Cepeda Salazar, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license,&nbsp;Transporting an open container of alcohol, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 03/03

Walter Wadford, Failure to appear, arrested 03/03

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/2024/3/1709581353600.jpeg" alt="Rapheal Riggins, Criminal trespass, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of stimulant, arrested 03/01" />
 <figcaption>Rapheal Riggins, Criminal trespass, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of stimulant, arrested 03/01</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709581454573.jpeg" alt="Mercedes Imlay, Criminal trespass, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of stimulant, arrested 03/01" />
 <figcaption>Mercedes Imlay, Criminal trespass, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of stimulant, arrested 03/01</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709581515497.jpeg" alt="Paul Arcuri, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked, arrested 03/01" />
 <figcaption>Paul Arcuri, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked, arrested 03/01</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709581619080.jpeg" alt="Melvin Sanford, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, arrested 03/01" />
 <figcaption>Melvin Sanford, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, arrested 03/01</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709581696268.jpeg" alt="Brandon Nicholson, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 03/01" />
 <figcaption>Brandon Nicholson, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 03/01</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709581760480.jpeg" alt="Marion Robinson, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, arrested 03/01" />
 <figcaption>Marion Robinson, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, arrested 03/01</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709581854221.jpeg" alt="Marcus Nicholson, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 03/01" />
 <figcaption>Marcus Nicholson, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 03/01</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709581923594.jpeg" alt="Thomas Nicholson, Sexual exploitation of&nbsp; a child, Possess media of child &lt;18, arrested 03/01" />
 <figcaption>Thomas Nicholson, Sexual exploitation of&nbsp; a child, Possess media of child &lt;18, arrested 03/01</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709582631902.jpeg" alt="Cody Allen, Assault of a law enforcement officer, Battery on LEO, Bodily harm to corrections/court services officer on duty (Two counts), Domestic battery, Rude physical contact with family member or dating relationship, Criminal threat against LEO, Cause terror, evacuation or disruption, arrested 03/02" />
 <figcaption>Cody Allen, Assault of a law enforcement officer, Battery on LEO, Bodily harm to corrections/court services officer on duty (Two counts), Domestic battery, Rude physical contact with family member or dating relationship, Criminal threat against LEO, Cause terror, evacuation or disruption, arrested 03/02</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709582793486.jpeg" alt="Lakota Poe, Criminal threat, Cause terror, evacuation or disruption, arrested 03/02" />
 <figcaption>Lakota Poe, Criminal threat, Cause terror, evacuation or disruption, arrested 03/02</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709582846777.jpeg" alt="Joshua Linville, Criminal possession of a weapon by felon, Firearm not used in the commission of crime, arrested 03/03" />
 <figcaption>Joshua Linville, Criminal possession of a weapon by felon, Firearm not used in the commission of crime, arrested 03/03</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709582907478.jpeg" alt="Javier Orsini, Criminal deprivation of property, arrested 03/03" />
 <figcaption>Javier Orsini, Criminal deprivation of property, arrested 03/03</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709582955006.jpeg" alt="Erick Wiseman, Transporting an open container, Violation of protection order, Possession of marijuana, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, arrested 03/04" />
 <figcaption>Erick Wiseman, Transporting an open container, Violation of protection order, Possession of marijuana, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, arrested 03/04</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Johnny Cole, Outside warrant, arrested 03/01Nicole Gary, Domestic battery, arrested 03/02Falon Barnes, Failure to appear, arrested 03/02Dwight Reid, Failure to appear, Possession of controlled substance, Use/possess with intent to use paraphernalia into human body, arrested 03/02Karli Nieman, Failure to appear, arrested 03/02Simon Cheatham, Minor in possession/consumption of alcoholic beverage, Transporting an open container of alcohol, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 03/02An Vu, Failure to appear, arrested 03/03Albino Cepeda Salazar, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license,&nbsp;Transporting an open container of alcohol, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 03/03Walter Wadford, Failure to appear, arrested 03/03Recent 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 March 2-4

Junction City - Geary County United Way will sponsor a Potato Bar on March 15th from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Episcopal Church of the Covenant. There will be baked potatoes, toppings and bottled water ( while supplies last ).

The cost will be $8 with funds raised supporting United Way. Chili will be provided by Wendy's and butter and sour cream by Tyme Out.

Junction City - Geary County United Way will sponsor a Potato Bar on March 15th from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Episcopal Church of the Covenant. There will be baked potatoes, toppings and bottled water ( while supplies last ).The cost will be $8 with funds raised supporting United Way. Chili will be provided by Wendy's and butter and sour cream by Tyme Out.Call 785-238-2117 for pre-orders.

United Way schedules Potato Bar fundraiser

USD 475 has announced that it was a banner weekend for the Junction City High School and H.D. Karns JAG-K programs at the Region 2 Career Development Conference as they qualified a total of 19 students for the JAG-K State Career Development Conference on March 20 in Hays.

As a team, the JCHS two program placed first overall in Topeka, while H.D. Karns claimed second-place honors out of 14 teams. Other highlights included junior Noah Maldonado being named the Region 2 president, while sophomore Jaden Exantus was elected the Region 2 vice president. By placing in the top-3 at regionals, students will now have a chance to qualify for nationals later this month&nbsp;as the top-two placers at the state conference in each division&nbsp;will represent USD 475 in St. Louis, Mo., on April 18-22.&nbsp;

Region 2 Results First Overall• PBL Team: Noah Maldonado, Jonae Conover and Alani Burks• Creative Decision-Making Team:&nbsp;Jaden Exantus, James Lamar and Jae’lynn Dennard• Career Preparation:&nbsp;Leah Simpson•&nbsp;Financial Literacy Exam: Gavin Massey•&nbsp;Business Plan Team: Reuben Solis, John Seamans and Alicia Martinez

Second Overall•&nbsp;PBL Team: Anthony Green, Morgan Barrett and Keira Cooper• Employability Skills: Deante Battiste•&nbsp;Prepared Speaking: Carrie Longshaw•&nbsp;Career Preparation: Bethany Wells•&nbsp;Financial Literacy Exam:&nbsp;Jaidynn Forbes

Third Overall•&nbsp;Prepared Speaking: Kirsten Walton

Matt Hoover&nbsp;Geary County Schools USD 475&nbsp;Communications Coordinator

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709582011082.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>USD 475 has announced that it was a banner weekend for the Junction City High School and H.D. Karns JAG-K programs at the Region 2 Career Development Conference as they qualified a total of 19 students for the JAG-K State Career Development Conference on March 20 in Hays.As a team, the JCHS two program placed first overall in Topeka, while H.D. Karns claimed second-place honors out of 14 teams. Other highlights included junior Noah Maldonado being named the Region 2 president, while sophomore Jaden Exantus was elected the Region 2 vice president. By placing in the top-3 at regionals, students will now have a chance to qualify for nationals later this month&nbsp;as the top-two placers at the state conference in each division&nbsp;will represent USD 475 in St. Louis, Mo., on April 18-22.&nbsp;Region 2 Results First Overall• PBL Team: Noah Maldonado, Jonae Conover and Alani Burks• Creative Decision-Making Team:&nbsp;Jaden Exantus, James Lamar and Jae’lynn Dennard• Career Preparation:&nbsp;Leah Simpson•&nbsp;Financial Literacy Exam: Gavin Massey•&nbsp;Business Plan Team: Reuben Solis, John Seamans and Alicia MartinezSecond Overall•&nbsp;PBL Team: Anthony Green, Morgan Barrett and Keira Cooper• Employability Skills: Deante Battiste•&nbsp;Prepared Speaking: Carrie Longshaw•&nbsp;Career Preparation: Bethany Wells•&nbsp;Financial Literacy Exam:&nbsp;Jaidynn ForbesThird Overall•&nbsp;Prepared Speaking: Kirsten WaltonMatt Hoover&nbsp;Geary County Schools USD 475&nbsp;Communications Coordinator

Students qualify for JAG K-State Career Development Conference

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that sent a man to the hospital in Manhattan.

Just before 2p.m. Sunday, the Riley County Communications Center received several 911 calls reporting shots fired in the 1400 block of Flint Hills Place in Manhattan, according to a media release.

Riley County Police Officers and an officer from the Kansas Highway Patrol responded to the scene and found a male victim, age 53, with two gunshot wounds, one to the right arm and the other to the right leg.

The victim was transported via ambulance to Via Christi and was later transferred to a larger hospital.&nbsp;

Officers were able to set up a perimeter and canvas the area for the suspect. The neighborhood was cleared of police activity around 7:17 PM. The suspect remains at large but we do not believe him to be a threat to the community at this time.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers. &nbsp; Crime stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that sent a man to the hospital in Manhattan.Just before 2p.m. Sunday, the Riley County Communications Center received several 911 calls reporting shots fired in the 1400 block of Flint Hills Place in Manhattan, according to a media release.Riley County Police Officers and an officer from the Kansas Highway Patrol responded to the scene and found a male victim, age 53, with two gunshot wounds, one to the right arm and the other to the right leg.The victim was transported via ambulance to Via Christi and was later transferred to a larger hospital.&nbsp;Officers were able to set up a perimeter and canvas the area for the suspect. The neighborhood was cleared of police activity around 7:17 PM. The suspect remains at large but we do not believe him to be a threat to the community at this time.Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers. &nbsp; Crime stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD looking for suspect in shooting that sent man to hospital

Society of the 1st Infantry Division Executive Director and former Junction City Commissioner Phyllis Fitzgerald is preparing to move later this year to Collinwood, Tennessee.&nbsp;

She is an active participant and volunteer on many community projects in Junction City, but she and husband, Keith Fitzgerald, plan to make the move in August to be closer to her family. She will continue to serve as the executive director of the Society of the 1st Infantry Division until August, and possibly longer.

Fitzgerald served as mayor of Junction City in 2017 and as a member of the city commission from 2015 to 2020. She has been a resident of Junction City since 1999 and before that during her military career was stationed at Fort Riley from 1989 to 1993. She served with the 1st Infantry Division during Desert Storm.

Society of the 1st Infantry Division Executive Director and former Junction City Commissioner Phyllis Fitzgerald is preparing to move later this year to Collinwood, Tennessee.&nbsp;She is an active participant and volunteer on many community projects in Junction City, but she and husband, Keith Fitzgerald, plan to make the move in August to be closer to her family. She will continue to serve as the executive director of the Society of the 1st Infantry Division until August, and possibly longer.Fitzgerald served as mayor of Junction City in 2017 and as a member of the city commission from 2015 to 2020. She has been a resident of Junction City since 1999 and before that during her military career was stationed at Fort Riley from 1989 to 1993. She served with the 1st Infantry Division during Desert Storm.

Phyllis Fitzgerald announces plans to move

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged use of fake cash in Manhattan.

Just before 4p.m. Sunday, officers filed a report of theft and counterfeit currency in the 800 block of Commons Place in Manhattan. Target&nbsp; reported counterfeit currency was used to purchase approximately $700 worth of merchandise.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656555299680.png" alt="Example of counterfeit cash. Not the bills used in Manhattan" />
 <figcaption>Example of counterfeit cash. Not the bills used in Manhattan</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged use of fake cash in Manhattan.Just before 4p.m. Sunday, officers filed a report of theft and counterfeit currency in the 800 block of Commons Place in Manhattan. Target&nbsp; reported counterfeit currency was used to purchase approximately $700 worth of merchandise.&nbsp;&nbsp;Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/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.

$700 purchase with counterfeit cash at Manhattan retailer

The annual severe weather and storm spotter training session sponsored by Geary County Emergency Management is scheduled Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. at the 4-H / Senior Center.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThe annual severe weather and storm spotter training session sponsored by Geary County Emergency Management is scheduled Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. at the 4-H / Senior Center.There is no cost to attend and no registration is needed. This is open to the public.

Severe weather & storm spotter training

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

Just after 7:30p.m. Saturday, officers filed a report for aggravated battery in the 900 block of Bertrand Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. A

 20-year-old male reported he was struck in the face with a glass bottle by an unknown male suspect. &nbsp;

Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. &nbsp;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 authorities are investigating an alleged battery in Manhattan.Just after 7:30p.m. Saturday, officers filed a report for aggravated battery in the 900 block of Bertrand Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. A 20-year-old male reported he was struck in the face with a glass bottle by an unknown male suspect. &nbsp;Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. &nbsp;Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: Suspect struck man in the face with glass bottle

Street repairs are necessary following the harsh winter. Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel noted every city and county along with KDOT crews are dealing with the challenge. Junction City crews have been buying a lot of material and fixing streets.

Dinkel said a lot of roads have to be addressed. He also noted that the city is getting ready this year to bid out about $1.5 million for&nbsp; mill and overlay work. One project that will receive attention is West 6th Street near the KJCK Radio building.

Dinkel thinks the city is getting to the point where some roads may have to be completely replaced. As the city gets out of its financial crisis that has existed for several years money will be freed up to do projects.

Grant Ave. and Jackson Street were concrete streets that have had "band aids of asphalt" put on top of them, said Dinkel. He noted that some day the city will have to start over, and that will not be a cheap process. There must be planning through it.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostStreet repairs are necessary following the harsh winter. Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel noted every city and county along with KDOT crews are dealing with the challenge. Junction City crews have been buying a lot of material and fixing streets.Dinkel said a lot of roads have to be addressed. He also noted that the city is getting ready this year to bid out about $1.5 million for&nbsp; mill and overlay work. One project that will receive attention is West 6th Street near the KJCK Radio building.Dinkel thinks the city is getting to the point where some roads may have to be completely replaced. As the city gets out of its financial crisis that has existed for several years money will be freed up to do projects.Grant Ave. and Jackson Street were concrete streets that have had "band aids of asphalt" put on top of them, said Dinkel. He noted that some day the city will have to start over, and that will not be a cheap process. There must be planning through it.

Junction City works to make road and pothole repairs

Geary County rural firefighters assisted by the Wakefield Rural Fire Department worked a grass fire Sunday on the west side of Milford Lake between Curtis Creek and School Creek.

According to Geary County Rural Fire Chief Garry Berges, approximately 25 acres of grassland burned. There were no injuries or structure damage.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary County rural firefighters assisted by the Wakefield Rural Fire Department worked a grass fire Sunday on the west side of Milford Lake between Curtis Creek and School Creek.According to Geary County Rural Fire Chief Garry Berges, approximately 25 acres of grassland burned. There were no injuries or structure damage.

Firefighters respond to west side of Milford Lake

COTTONWOOD FALLS, KS. -- Tickets are on sale now for the 2024 Symphony in the Flint Hills Signature Event that will take place on Saturday, June 8, at Red Ranch in Greenwood County.&nbsp;Tickets can be purchased online at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-V5Rh7r3wa3E3Z9m2KwZA9wUKKllr0xtg6qJXHlkEocXcChT6w4ttXIlMty5XkXB5bdbN_N7t9tMr4Km9xr8rivFJGUfj4VK0UI-IBdwEtFV-vZkol3BIbOvVJffTI2E0-_YuYFk90GRaV8XN2gBfgOWRi--qIgQ&amp;c=a_SlVHfAt_afagMw1wjzCAmCkg8yJLeoNgeN4pwLNxdL91fwbamiVg==&amp;ch=9Zpzmy36smffKsbrrRe6qqdrgtIldFoRwHFrFAvxtEq12oRAktSn1A==" target="_blank">symphonyintheflinthills.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 620-273-8955.

This year, Symphony in the Flint Hills&nbsp; welcomes Katharine McPhee as the guest vocalist performing with the Kansas City Symphony. McPhee became a household name in 2006 during Season 5 of AMERICAN IDOL. Since then, she's starred in multiple shows on television, film, and Broadway, and performed to sold-out crowds around the world. Her recordings have topped charts in multiple genres, including pop, jazz, and adult contemporary.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Symphony in the Flint Hills Signature Event is an annual gathering celebrating music, art, and the ecology of the Flint Hills that moves to a different site each year. Gates will open at 1 p.m., with the afternoon featuring a range of experiences including covered wagon rides, roping with the outriders, guided prairie walks, inspirational talks and more. The evening will culminate with a concert by the Kansas City Symphony and Katharine McPhee, followed by a Flint Hills sunset, powwow dancers and&nbsp; stargazing.

The event's Major Presenting Sponsor, BNSF Railway, returns this year to continue their support and dedication to the organization.&nbsp;

Early bird pricing is $95 for adults plus taxes and fees and $50 for children (12 and under) plus taxes and fees. Starting April 15, ticket prices will increase to $110 for adults and $50 for children, plus taxes and fees.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709486603462.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>COTTONWOOD FALLS, KS. -- Tickets are on sale now for the 2024 Symphony in the Flint Hills Signature Event that will take place on Saturday, June 8, at Red Ranch in Greenwood County.&nbsp;Tickets can be purchased online at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-V5Rh7r3wa3E3Z9m2KwZA9wUKKllr0xtg6qJXHlkEocXcChT6w4ttXIlMty5XkXB5bdbN_N7t9tMr4Km9xr8rivFJGUfj4VK0UI-IBdwEtFV-vZkol3BIbOvVJffTI2E0-_YuYFk90GRaV8XN2gBfgOWRi--qIgQ&amp;c=a_SlVHfAt_afagMw1wjzCAmCkg8yJLeoNgeN4pwLNxdL91fwbamiVg==&amp;ch=9Zpzmy36smffKsbrrRe6qqdrgtIldFoRwHFrFAvxtEq12oRAktSn1A==" target="_blank">symphonyintheflinthills.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 620-273-8955.This year, Symphony in the Flint Hills&nbsp; welcomes Katharine McPhee as the guest vocalist performing with the Kansas City Symphony. McPhee became a household name in 2006 during Season 5 of AMERICAN IDOL. Since then, she's starred in multiple shows on television, film, and Broadway, and performed to sold-out crowds around the world. Her recordings have topped charts in multiple genres, including pop, jazz, and adult contemporary.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Symphony in the Flint Hills Signature Event is an annual gathering celebrating music, art, and the ecology of the Flint Hills that moves to a different site each year. Gates will open at 1 p.m., with the afternoon featuring a range of experiences including covered wagon rides, roping with the outriders, guided prairie walks, inspirational talks and more. The evening will culminate with a concert by the Kansas City Symphony and Katharine McPhee, followed by a Flint Hills sunset, powwow dancers and&nbsp; stargazing.The event's Major Presenting Sponsor, BNSF Railway, returns this year to continue their support and dedication to the organization.&nbsp;Early bird pricing is $95 for adults plus taxes and fees and $50 for children (12 and under) plus taxes and fees. Starting April 15, ticket prices will increase to $110 for adults and $50 for children, plus taxes and fees.Chelsey Dawson

Tickets on sale now for 2024 Symphony in the Flint Hills Signature Event

Each week, a report is written by City staff that is to provide information on the activity of the City staff during the past week or to provide information relating to the City. This report is known as the 5/15, however I have heard it called the 5-1-5. So where did the name come from? Actually, a previous manager started this report and 5/15 was the name that was given to it. I once thought it was called that because it is sent at the end of the week, but others say it was called that because it was supposed to take 5 minutes to read and 15 minutes to write each section. Whatever the reason for the name, the report was meant to provide information and it still does that. When I first came here the report was only sent to members of the Governing Body and to the Department Heads. However, over the years the report is now sent to many people. Of course, one thing that has not changed is the name. I like the ring of 5/15 and the name has been embraced by the staff.

Over the past couple of years, the local news media has printed my portion of the report to share with the public. However, the complete report contains information from the City Department Heads. If you want to be added to the list to receive the entire report just drop an e-mail to me at allen.dinkel@jcks.com

One topic that I have heard some talking about this week is the Animal Shelter. As most know, the shelter is located on North Jackson Street adjacent to the Public Works Department. When I first came to Junction City, the Shelter was operated by Geary County and the City owned the structure and shared in the costs of running the shelter. All staff members were County employees.

In 2020 the County Commission decided to no longer be a part of the Shelter and the operation turned back to the City. Of course, the City had ran the shelter at one time before the County was involved. The employees then became “City” employees, and the Shelter was made part of the Police Department. This of course ties together with the Animal Control staff. Agreements were made with the County Sherriff Office, and the cities of Grandview Plaza and Milford to take animals from those jurisdictions at the Shelter.

Recently, there has been an uptick in the number of animals received. In the month of February, the Shelter received 96 animals. 60 of these were canines, 35 felines and 1 other. 48 of the animals were brought in by the Animal Control Officer (ACO) and the Police Department and 33 were delivered by civilians. There were also Civilian surrenders of their animals. One issue that the shelter has is animals that are dumped at the shelter or just turned loose into the community and then captured by the ACO. Unfortunately, the number of animals increases with deployments of soldiers.

With this number of animals, the shelter is normally more than just full. The shelter also needs to be addressed so that humane treatment can be given to the animals. At the next City Commission, Animal Shelter Director Vanessa Gray will make a presentation about the shelter. One option is a new shelter, but that does come with a price tag. Some of mentioned that a building could be purchased and refurbished. Though that may be an option, issues such as drainage and ventilation have to be considered and spaces for isolating infected or diseased animals are needed. Of course, exercise areas are another consideration. Again, remodeling will have a cost and we will need to weigh what options are the best. Remodeling the present facility may be an option as well, but the goal has to be, to have a shelter that fits the needs of the community along with the treatment of the animals.

Over the past few years, the shelter has moved to a near “No Kill” facility and efforts are made to adopt all animals. This becomes a controversial subject as others feel that animals should be euthanized if they are at the shelter for an extended period of time. Likewise, the Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) programs for felines has it “likers and haters”, but this program is used by many cities to control cat populations.

As with many City decisions there are many options and opinions. At the end of the day, the goal is to find what is best for Junction City.

By Allen DinkelEach week, a report is written by City staff that is to provide information on the activity of the City staff during the past week or to provide information relating to the City. This report is known as the 5/15, however I have heard it called the 5-1-5. So where did the name come from? Actually, a previous manager started this report and 5/15 was the name that was given to it. I once thought it was called that because it is sent at the end of the week, but others say it was called that because it was supposed to take 5 minutes to read and 15 minutes to write each section. Whatever the reason for the name, the report was meant to provide information and it still does that. When I first came here the report was only sent to members of the Governing Body and to the Department Heads. However, over the years the report is now sent to many people. Of course, one thing that has not changed is the name. I like the ring of 5/15 and the name has been embraced by the staff.Over the past couple of years, the local news media has printed my portion of the report to share with the public. However, the complete report contains information from the City Department Heads. If you want to be added to the list to receive the entire report just drop an e-mail to me at allen.dinkel@jcks.comOne topic that I have heard some talking about this week is the Animal Shelter. As most know, the shelter is located on North Jackson Street adjacent to the Public Works Department. When I first came to Junction City, the Shelter was operated by Geary County and the City owned the structure and shared in the costs of running the shelter. All staff members were County employees.In 2020 the County Commission decided to no longer be a part of the Shelter and the operation turned back to the City. Of course, the City had ran the shelter at one time before the County was involved. The employees then became “City” employees, and the Shelter was made part of the Police Department. This of course ties together with the Animal Control staff. Agreements were made with the County Sherriff Office, and the cities of Grandview Plaza and Milford to take animals from those jurisdictions at the Shelter.Recently, there has been an uptick in the number of animals received. In the month of February, the Shelter received 96 animals. 60 of these were canines, 35 felines and 1 other. 48 of the animals were brought in by the Animal Control Officer (ACO) and the Police Department and 33 were delivered by civilians. There were also Civilian surrenders of their animals. One issue that the shelter has is animals that are dumped at the shelter or just turned loose into the community and then captured by the ACO. Unfortunately, the number of animals increases with deployments of soldiers.With this number of animals, the shelter is normally more than just full. The shelter also needs to be addressed so that humane treatment can be given to the animals. At the next City Commission, Animal Shelter Director Vanessa Gray will make a presentation about the shelter. One option is a new shelter, but that does come with a price tag. Some of mentioned that a building could be purchased and refurbished. Though that may be an option, issues such as drainage and ventilation have to be considered and spaces for isolating infected or diseased animals are needed. Of course, exercise areas are another consideration. Again, remodeling will have a cost and we will need to weigh what options are the best. Remodeling the present facility may be an option as well, but the goal has to be, to have a shelter that fits the needs of the community along with the treatment of the animals.Over the past few years, the shelter has moved to a near “No Kill” facility and efforts are made to adopt all animals. This becomes a controversial subject as others feel that animals should be euthanized if they are at the shelter for an extended period of time. Likewise, the Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) programs for felines has it “likers and haters”, but this program is used by many cities to control cat populations.As with many City decisions there are many options and opinions. At the end of the day, the goal is to find what is best for Junction City.

City Manager Allen Dinkel releases his 515 Report

Members of law enforcement were honored during an appreciation banquet Friday night at the Junction City Municipal Building.

North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Center--Michael Hoover,&nbsp; Juvenile Corrections Officer of the Year

Eighth Judicial District Court Services-- Amber Knapp, Court Services Officer of the Year

Fort Riley Police Department--SSG Cody Mabe, Officer of the Year and Michael McMackin, Administrative Employee of the Year

Criminal Investigation Division--Special Agent Joshua Brown, Officer of the Year

Junction City Police Department--Detective Clint Arnold, Detective of the Year, Casey Thomas--Administrative Employee of the Year, Alexya Mailea--Dispatcher of the Year, SGT Emily Olson--Officer of the Year

Eighth Judicial District-Community Corrections--Briana Webster, Intensive Supervision Officer of the Year

Geary County Sheriff's Office--Jeannette DeMars, Administrative Employee of the Year, Ali Huizar, Officer of the Year, Paul Pacholski, Correctional Officer of the Year

Grandview Plaza Police Department--Korie Brown, Officer of the Year

Approximately 250 people attended the banquet.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709423074729.jpeg" alt="Briana Webster" />
 <figcaption>Briana Webster</figcaption>
 </figure>( Photos Courtney Gilbert )Members of law enforcement were honored during an appreciation banquet Friday night at the Junction City Municipal Building.They included:North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Center--Michael Hoover,&nbsp; Juvenile Corrections Officer of the YearEighth Judicial District Court Services-- Amber Knapp, Court Services Officer of the YearFort Riley Police Department--SSG Cody Mabe, Officer of the Year and Michael McMackin, Administrative Employee of the YearCriminal Investigation Division--Special Agent Joshua Brown, Officer of the YearJunction City Police Department--Detective Clint Arnold, Detective of the Year, Casey Thomas--Administrative Employee of the Year, Alexya Mailea--Dispatcher of the Year, SGT Emily Olson--Officer of the YearEighth Judicial District-Community Corrections--Briana Webster, Intensive Supervision Officer of the YearGeary County Sheriff's Office--Jeannette DeMars, Administrative Employee of the Year, Ali Huizar, Officer of the Year, Paul Pacholski, Correctional Officer of the YearGrandview Plaza Police Department--Korie Brown, Officer of the Year<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709423183657.jpeg" alt="Paul Pacholski, Correctional Officer of the Year" />
 <figcaption>Paul Pacholski, Correctional Officer of the Year</figcaption>
 </figure>Approximately 250 people attended the banquet.

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