House budget boosts aid by $10 million, not promised $73 million surge

BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Rep. Steven Howe’s disappointment that state appropriations to school districts for special education hadn’t kept pace with legal thresholds for the past 14 years reflected a personal connection with students grappling with developmental, emotional, hearing or vision disabilities in the classroom.

“I want to represent students of my district and their families — students like Murray, who is confined to a wheelchair,” Howe said. “I think about people I know and people I’m neighbors with and people their kids go to school with my kids and the teachers that do come alongside them to support them.”

Howe, a Salina Republican, said it was frustrating lawmakers in the House voted to abandon a commitment made by the Kansas Legislature and Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly in 2024 to get behind an appropriation this year of $73 million for reimbursement of special education services delivered by school districts.

The amount was part of a four-year plan to gradually come into compliance with a law mandating the state pay 92% of extra costs of special education. Currently, the state reimburses districts for 75.4% of excess costs.

A House subcommittee had proposed a $30 million increase this year, but Rep. Kristey Williams, R-Augusta, proposed the funding be deleted from the budget. The House Appropriations Committee settled on a $10 million enhancement. That’s the amount included in the budget bill passed Wednesday by the House.

During debate on House spending priorities, Howe said he contemplated offering an amendment to amplify state aid to special education. He said there were House colleagues who would be upset by his decision, but he was convinced the amendment had no chance of passing.

“My motivation is the ability to come alongside our school kids and their families and to support them and equip them,” Howe said. “I didn’t come here to play political games or to get likes on Facebook. I’m not insinuating that anybody here is motivated by that, but I just don’t participate in that. I don’t understand all the politics that go on here at the Capitol.”

If the special education provision in the House budget were to be subsequently approved by the Kansas Senate and signed into law by the governor, Kansas school districts would be expected to continue diverting resources from general instructional areas to meet demand for special education services.

In Olathe, the annual shortfall stood at $36 million. The comparable annual deficit in the Blue Valley school district was $13.7 million. The hit in the Shawnee Mission district was $23 million annually. In Salina schools represented by Howe, the difference amounted to $5.4 million annually.

The bill forwarded to the Senate added $10 million to the estimated $601 million annually devoted by the state to special education in K-12 schools. It’s not clear whether that amount would keep pace with inflationary pressure on public schools or allow the state to slip further behind in the quest for 92% compliance.

Rep. Jared Ousley, D-Merriam, did propose an amendment to the budget that would have increased special education funding to local school districts by a total of $30 million.

He also proposed the additional $20 million for special education be drawn from a special fund fed by sports gambling revenue and designated to support recruitment of a professional sports franchise to Kansas.

A bill signed into law last year created a mechanism for the state to finance 70% of the cost of building new stadiums for the Kansas City Chiefs or Kansas City Royals, which have been located in Missouri for decades.

The idea of using sports stadium seed money to get closer to the state’s obligation to special education students was opposed by Rep. Sean Tarwater, a Stilwell Republican involved in developing the stadium legislation. He urged the House to reject Ousley’s amendment, and it was crushed 40-76.

“The fact that you’re going to take the money out of this sports fund in the middle of negotiating with a couple of great opportunities for the state of Kansas …. one of the teams is close to announcing a deal. What if that deal is in the state of Kansas? We’re sending them a message that says, ‘Hey, you know, never mind. We’re going to be just like Jackson County and we’re going to pull the rug out from underneath you and look like a bunch of idiots.'”

In April 2024, voters in Jackson County, Missouri, voted against a sales tax extension that would have supported renovations at Arrowhead Stadium for the Chiefs and built a new ballpark for the Royals in downtown Kansas City, Missouri.

Rep. Alexis Simmons, D-Topeka, said she understood what it meant to attend a Kansas public school with inadequate resources. She recalled attending school in classrooms that didn’t have enough desks for students. She recommended Kansas legalize cannabis sales and devote that tax revenue to K-12 education.

In this region, recreational marijuana sales have been made legal in Missouri and Colorado while Nebraska and Oklahoma legalized medicinal cannabis sales.

“We’re telling these kinds in special education that their needs are going to come last,” Simmons said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740146010870.png" alt="Rep. Steven Howe, R-Salina, chose not to offer a budget amendment in the House to increase state aid to special education because he decided it had no chance to pass. The point was proven when Rep. Jarrod Ousley, D-Merriam, proposed an amendment to raise state aid for special education by $30 million, and it was defeated 40-76. The budget sent to the House contains a $10 million increase for special education. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Steven Howe, R-Salina, chose not to offer a budget amendment in the House to increase state aid to special education because he decided it had no chance to pass. The point was proven when Rep. Jarrod Ousley, D-Merriam, proposed an amendment to raise state aid for special education by $30 million, and it was defeated 40-76. The budget sent to the House contains a $10 million increase for special education. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>House budget boosts aid by $10 million, not promised $73 million surge</h2>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Rep. Steven Howe’s disappointment that state appropriations to school districts for special education hadn’t kept pace with legal thresholds for the past 14 years reflected a personal connection with students grappling with developmental, emotional, hearing or vision disabilities in the classroom.“I want to represent students of my district and their families — students like Murray, who is confined to a wheelchair,” Howe said. “I think about people I know and people I’m neighbors with and people their kids go to school with my kids and the teachers that do come alongside them to support them.”Howe, a Salina Republican, said it was frustrating lawmakers in the House voted to abandon a commitment made by the Kansas Legislature and Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly in 2024 to get behind an appropriation this year of $73 million for reimbursement of special education services delivered by school districts.The amount was part of a four-year plan to gradually come into compliance with a law mandating the state pay 92% of extra costs of special education. Currently, the state reimburses districts for 75.4% of excess costs.A House subcommittee had proposed a $30 million increase this year, but Rep. Kristey Williams, R-Augusta, proposed the funding be deleted from the budget. The House Appropriations Committee settled on a $10 million enhancement. That’s the amount included in the budget bill passed Wednesday by the House.During debate on House spending priorities, Howe said he contemplated offering an amendment to amplify state aid to special education. He said there were House colleagues who would be upset by his decision, but he was convinced the amendment had no chance of passing.“My motivation is the ability to come alongside our school kids and their families and to support them and equip them,” Howe said. “I didn’t come here to play political games or to get likes on Facebook. I’m not insinuating that anybody here is motivated by that, but I just don’t participate in that. I don’t understand all the politics that go on here at the Capitol.”<h2>Amendment intercepted</h2>If the special education provision in the House budget were to be subsequently approved by the Kansas Senate and signed into law by the governor, Kansas school districts would be expected to continue diverting resources from general instructional areas to meet demand for special education services.In Olathe, the annual shortfall stood at $36 million. The comparable annual deficit in the Blue Valley school district was $13.7 million. The hit in the Shawnee Mission district was $23 million annually. In Salina schools represented by Howe, the difference amounted to $5.4 million annually.The bill forwarded to the Senate added $10 million to the estimated $601 million annually devoted by the state to special education in K-12 schools. It’s not clear whether that amount would keep pace with inflationary pressure on public schools or allow the state to slip further behind in the quest for 92% compliance.Rep. Jared Ousley, D-Merriam, did propose an amendment to the budget that would have increased special education funding to local school districts by a total of $30 million.He also proposed the additional $20 million for special education be drawn from a special fund fed by sports gambling revenue and designated to support recruitment of a professional sports franchise to Kansas.A bill signed into law last year created a mechanism for the state to finance 70% of the cost of building new stadiums for the Kansas City Chiefs or Kansas City Royals, which have been located in Missouri for decades.<h2>‘Bunch of idiots’</h2>The idea of using sports stadium seed money to get closer to the state’s obligation to special education students was opposed by Rep. Sean Tarwater, a Stilwell Republican involved in developing the stadium legislation. He urged the House to reject Ousley’s amendment, and it was crushed 40-76.“The fact that you’re going to take the money out of this sports fund in the middle of negotiating with a couple of great opportunities for the state of Kansas …. one of the teams is close to announcing a deal. What if that deal is in the state of Kansas? We’re sending them a message that says, ‘Hey, you know, never mind. We’re going to be just like Jackson County and we’re going to pull the rug out from underneath you and look like a bunch of idiots.'”In April 2024, voters in Jackson County, Missouri, voted against a sales tax extension that would have supported renovations at Arrowhead Stadium for the Chiefs and built a new ballpark for the Royals in downtown Kansas City, Missouri.Rep. Alexis Simmons, D-Topeka, said she understood what it meant to attend a Kansas public school with inadequate resources. She recalled attending school in classrooms that didn’t have enough desks for students. She recommended Kansas legalize cannabis sales and devote that tax revenue to K-12 education.In this region, recreational marijuana sales have been made legal in Missouri and Colorado while Nebraska and Oklahoma legalized medicinal cannabis sales.“We’re telling these kinds in special education that their needs are going to come last,” Simmons said.

Kansas House punts funding increase commitment to special education in K-12 schools

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USD475?__cft__[0]=AZXtiSSueNSoje57c8nkDpCeVcxdI1vf0I1gneywJhl9_lW-ypsS9rbBh_5la23D-1XNokKndNEIMj7NdOsJUqqDBw2xz5ScvwirknXGCK56SYCmgHSZQhoKd6wCibdE4Fexb1yaCezOMWBKAk_GiWp-HNKJGarJDH5GOozcHbe2bow1xN4XrGSwOhkasLAt8aY&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Geary County Schools USD 475</a> will return to normal school hours on Friday, Feb. 21. Attendance will be taken and bus routes will run on normal time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USD475?__cft__[0]=AZXtiSSueNSoje57c8nkDpCeVcxdI1vf0I1gneywJhl9_lW-ypsS9rbBh_5la23D-1XNokKndNEIMj7NdOsJUqqDBw2xz5ScvwirknXGCK56SYCmgHSZQhoKd6wCibdE4Fexb1yaCezOMWBKAk_GiWp-HNKJGarJDH5GOozcHbe2bow1xN4XrGSwOhkasLAt8aY&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Geary County Schools USD 475</a> will return to normal school hours on Friday, Feb. 21. Attendance will be taken and bus routes will run on normal time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 475 students and staff will return to school on Friday

WABAUNSEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations after a high speed chase in Wabaunsee Countuy.

While on an overnight patrol, a Wabaunsee Sheriff's Sergeant attempted to perform a lawful traffic stop on a brown Pontiac, according to a social media report from the Wabaunsee County Sheriff's office.

Upon activating emergency lights and audible sirens the driver, later identified as 36-year-old Justin Case Goodspeed of Eskkridge, attempted to flee from the Sheriff's Sergeant.

The Sergeant initiated a pursuit and gave chase of the suspect vehicle which attempted to evade law enforcement at high speeds on snow and ice. 

The Sergeant, out of an abundance of caution, deactivated emergency lights and sirens and reduced his own speed yet persisted forward towards the suspects last known direction of travel. 

Shortly thereafter Sergeant again activated emergency lights after discovering the suspect vehicle crashed the 15550 block of Wakarusa Road in Eskridge.

The Sergeant performed a felony car stop and arrested Goodspeed, the lone occupant, without incident and transported him to Wabounsee County Jail where he is being held on requested charges of Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving;&nbsp; Felong Driving while a habitual violator; Operate vehicle without registration or w/ expired tag; Vehicle liability insurance; Liability coverage required; Basic rule governing speed of vehicle; too fast for conditions; Maximum speed limits; Failure to wear seatbelt; Transporting open container; Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant (meth); Possession of marijuana; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body and Traffic contraband in correction facility. There were no injuries or property damages from the incident.

Goodspeed has previous convictions for theft, burglary, domestic battery and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740077810278.png" alt="Goodspeed -photo Wabaunsee County" />
 <figcaption>Goodspeed -photo Wabaunsee County</figcaption>
 </figure>WABAUNSEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations after a high speed chase in Wabaunsee Countuy.While on an overnight patrol, a Wabaunsee Sheriff's Sergeant attempted to perform a lawful traffic stop on a brown Pontiac, according to a social media report from the Wabaunsee County Sheriff's office.Upon activating emergency lights and audible sirens the driver, later identified as 36-year-old Justin Case Goodspeed of Eskkridge, attempted to flee from the Sheriff's Sergeant.The Sergeant initiated a pursuit and gave chase of the suspect vehicle which attempted to evade law enforcement at high speeds on snow and ice. The Sergeant, out of an abundance of caution, deactivated emergency lights and sirens and reduced his own speed yet persisted forward towards the suspects last known direction of travel. Shortly thereafter Sergeant again activated emergency lights after discovering the suspect vehicle crashed the 15550 block of Wakarusa Road in Eskridge.The Sergeant performed a felony car stop and arrested Goodspeed, the lone occupant, without incident and transported him to Wabounsee County Jail where he is being held on requested charges of Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving;&nbsp; Felong Driving while a habitual violator; Operate vehicle without registration or w/ expired tag; Vehicle liability insurance; Liability coverage required; Basic rule governing speed of vehicle; too fast for conditions; Maximum speed limits; Failure to wear seatbelt; Transporting open container; Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant (meth); Possession of marijuana; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body and Traffic contraband in correction facility. There were no injuries or property damages from the incident.Goodspeed has previous convictions for theft, burglary, domestic battery and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kan. felon jailed after high-speed chase, crash on icy highway

Junction City Public Works crews are finalizing a water main break repair at Kiowa Ct and Kaw Dr Thursday, February 20th. Residents in this area may experience low water pressure to no water until all repairs are complete. Officials are anticipating repairs to take approximately 2-3 hours. Please call Junction City Public Works at 785-238-7142 with any questions.

Junction City Public Works crews are finalizing a water main break repair at Kiowa Ct and Kaw Dr Thursday, February 20th. Residents in this area may experience low water pressure to no water until all repairs are complete. Officials are anticipating repairs to take approximately 2-3 hours. Please call Junction City Public Works at 785-238-7142 with any questions.

Repairs are under way for a water main break

Geary County Food Pantry officials are hoping for a mid-April opening for their new building at 7th and Clay in Junction City. "They started construction in September and they're going to be done in mid April," said the Chairman of the Building Committee, Brad Carlton in a recent JC Now interview on 107.9 / 1420 KJCK.

There is a lack of enough space at the food pantry's current 138 West 3rd Street location where approximately 1,400 people are served monthly.

The project began when Geary County provided $50,000 to purchase a lot and Hutton Construction helped with the project.

Some of the features in the new metal frame building in addition to more space include a covered loading pad to reduce damage to donated food, a covered area outside in front of the building, an intake area where people can register, a larger walk-in cooler and freezer and off-street parking.&nbsp;

Approximately $550,000 has been raised and about $100,000 more is needed to finish the building. Fundraising is continuing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740070783602.jpeg" alt="New food pantry building construction site" />
 <figcaption>New food pantry building construction site</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary County Food Pantry officials are hoping for a mid-April opening for their new building at 7th and Clay in Junction City. "They started construction in September and they're going to be done in mid April," said the Chairman of the Building Committee, Brad Carlton in a recent JC Now interview on 107.9 / 1420 KJCK.There is a lack of enough space at the food pantry's current 138 West 3rd Street location where approximately 1,400 people are served monthly.The project began when Geary County provided $50,000 to purchase a lot and Hutton Construction helped with the project.Some of the features in the new metal frame building in addition to more space include a covered loading pad to reduce damage to donated food, a covered area outside in front of the building, an intake area where people can register, a larger walk-in cooler and freezer and off-street parking.&nbsp;Approximately $550,000 has been raised and about $100,000 more is needed to finish the building. Fundraising is continuing.

Work progresses on a new food pantry building

The Junction City Comission and the Geary County Sheriff's Department have approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), re-establishing the joint interdiction team.This specialized unit is dedicated to interdicting criminal activity, with a focus on narcotics and firearms trafficking. 

According to the JCPD as part of this initiative, K9 Detective Blake has been deputized at the Geary County Sheriff's Office, allowing him to operate throughout the county alongside Geary County Sheriff's Deputies. We are excited to work together with the Geary County Sheriff’s Office to strengthen our efforts in combating crime and keeping our community safe.&nbsp;

The Junction City Comission and the Geary County Sheriff's Department have approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), re-establishing the joint interdiction team.This specialized unit is dedicated to interdicting criminal activity, with a focus on narcotics and firearms trafficking. According to the JCPD as part of this initiative, K9 Detective Blake has been deputized at the Geary County Sheriff's Office, allowing him to operate throughout the county alongside Geary County Sheriff's Deputies. We are excited to work together with the Geary County Sheriff’s Office to strengthen our efforts in combating crime and keeping our community safe.&nbsp;

Joint interdiction team reestablished

Fort Riley, Kan. (February 19, 2025)&nbsp;– Corvias, a leading energy and infrastructure solutions provider, in collaboration with Sunstone Energy Development and City, Light &amp; Power, completed Phase III of an ongoing energy independence and security effort at U.S. Army Garrison Fort Riley, recently marking a month of successful operations as part of its broader mission to support the U.S. Department of Defense’s operational resilience and readiness goals.

The project supports the DOD’s goal to provide 100% of the energy load required to sustain the critical mission of each U.S. military installation by the end of fiscal year 2030.&nbsp;

This latest phase consisted of two solar PV arrays, both of which finished interconnection in December and provide rate stabilization and energy security to Fort Riley housing communities. The program offsets nearly 40% of annual electricity consumed by the housing community and also contributed to the $2 billion of community economic impact recently announced by Fort Riley’s Garrison Commander, Col. Jerry Nunziato.

“This work continues to ensure a reliable and secure supply of energy to on-post housing and the surrounding area,” said Jim Champagne, Corvias Senior Vice President of Asset Management at Fort Riley. “Along with our partners, Corvias continues to implement strategies to mitigate vulnerabilities and potential disruptions that may affect the readiness of service members and their families.”

Over the past 10 years, Sunstone Energy Development, a joint venture between Corvias Solar Solutions and Onyx Renewables, has provided renewable energy solutions across the Corvias Army housing portfolio.

“For Onyx, delivering quality, resilient clean energy solutions is at the core of our mission,” said Kevin Cox, SVP of Origination at Onyx Renewables. “These onsite solar installations at Fort Riley not only enhance energy security and reliability for service members and their families but also underscore the long-term benefits of renewable energy in strengthening critical infrastructure.”

Corvias’ industry-first Solutions Through Partnerships approach is built on a shared commitment to assisting the Department of Defense in sustaining the critical mission of each U.S. military installation by supporting readiness.

The newly completed solar arrays add to two previously completed rooftop phases for the of the Corvias-led solar program at Fort Riley – already one of the largest in the state of Kansas.

For more information on Corvias improvements on Fort Riley, visit our&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.corvias.com/news?keywords=Fort%20Riley&amp;division=14">website</a>.

Fort Riley, Kan. (February 19, 2025)&nbsp;– Corvias, a leading energy and infrastructure solutions provider, in collaboration with Sunstone Energy Development and City, Light &amp; Power, completed Phase III of an ongoing energy independence and security effort at U.S. Army Garrison Fort Riley, recently marking a month of successful operations as part of its broader mission to support the U.S. Department of Defense’s operational resilience and readiness goals.The project supports the DOD’s goal to provide 100% of the energy load required to sustain the critical mission of each U.S. military installation by the end of fiscal year 2030.&nbsp;This latest phase consisted of two solar PV arrays, both of which finished interconnection in December and provide rate stabilization and energy security to Fort Riley housing communities. The program offsets nearly 40% of annual electricity consumed by the housing community and also contributed to the $2 billion of community economic impact recently announced by Fort Riley’s Garrison Commander, Col. Jerry Nunziato.“This work continues to ensure a reliable and secure supply of energy to on-post housing and the surrounding area,” said Jim Champagne, Corvias Senior Vice President of Asset Management at Fort Riley. “Along with our partners, Corvias continues to implement strategies to mitigate vulnerabilities and potential disruptions that may affect the readiness of service members and their families.”Over the past 10 years, Sunstone Energy Development, a joint venture between Corvias Solar Solutions and Onyx Renewables, has provided renewable energy solutions across the Corvias Army housing portfolio.“For Onyx, delivering quality, resilient clean energy solutions is at the core of our mission,” said Kevin Cox, SVP of Origination at Onyx Renewables. “These onsite solar installations at Fort Riley not only enhance energy security and reliability for service members and their families but also underscore the long-term benefits of renewable energy in strengthening critical infrastructure.”Corvias’ industry-first Solutions Through Partnerships approach is built on a shared commitment to assisting the Department of Defense in sustaining the critical mission of each U.S. military installation by supporting readiness.The newly completed solar arrays add to two previously completed rooftop phases for the of the Corvias-led solar program at Fort Riley – already one of the largest in the state of Kansas.For more information on Corvias improvements on Fort Riley, visit our&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.corvias.com/news?keywords=Fort%20Riley&amp;division=14">website</a>.

Corvias Partnership Accelerates Army’s Fort Riley Energy Resiliency

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.

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/2025/2/1740066436264.jpeg" alt="Arthur Mickey, Failure to appear, arrested 02/19" />
 <figcaption>Arthur Mickey, Failure to appear, arrested 02/19</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740066447038.jpeg" alt="Oscar Hernandez,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 02/19" />
 <figcaption>Oscar Hernandez,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 02/19</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740066456863.jpeg" alt="Cornelius Phillips,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 02/19" />
 <figcaption>Cornelius Phillips,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 02/19</figcaption>
 </figure>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.

Geary County Booking Photos Feb. 20 

A public hearing will be conducted at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, to consider changes to the administrative regulations relating to meat and poultry inspection. The hearing will be held in person at the Kansas Department of Agriculture at 1320 Research Park Dr. in Manhattan, as well as via video conferencing system.

KDA is proposing amendments to two regulations and the revocation of one existing regulation for the administration of the Kansas Meat and Poultry Inspection Act, K.S.A. 65-6a18,&nbsp;et seq. These proposed changes will incorporate the currently adopted federal code sections into a single, complete document that will allow the state meat and poultry inspection program’s regulatory scheme to remain at least equal to that of the federal inspection program.

A copy of the proposed regulation changes, as well as an expanded notice of public hearing, may be accessed on the KDA website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.agriculture.ks.gov/PublicComment">agriculture.ks.gov/PublicComment</a>. Anyone desiring to participate via video conference must pre-register to be provided with a video link; the registration is available in the notice of public hearing. Written comments can be submitted prior to the hearing on KDA’s public comment web page, or sent by email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Ronda.Hutton@ks.gov">Ronda.Hutton@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or by mail to the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Attn: Ronda Hutton, 1320 Research Park Dr., Manhattan, KS, 66502.

Kansas Department of AgricultureA public hearing will be conducted at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, to consider changes to the administrative regulations relating to meat and poultry inspection. The hearing will be held in person at the Kansas Department of Agriculture at 1320 Research Park Dr. in Manhattan, as well as via video conferencing system.KDA is proposing amendments to two regulations and the revocation of one existing regulation for the administration of the Kansas Meat and Poultry Inspection Act, K.S.A. 65-6a18,&nbsp;et seq. These proposed changes will incorporate the currently adopted federal code sections into a single, complete document that will allow the state meat and poultry inspection program’s regulatory scheme to remain at least equal to that of the federal inspection program.A copy of the proposed regulation changes, as well as an expanded notice of public hearing, may be accessed on the KDA website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.agriculture.ks.gov/PublicComment">agriculture.ks.gov/PublicComment</a>. Anyone desiring to participate via video conference must pre-register to be provided with a video link; the registration is available in the notice of public hearing. Written comments can be submitted prior to the hearing on KDA’s public comment web page, or sent by email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Ronda.Hutton@ks.gov">Ronda.Hutton@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or by mail to the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Attn: Ronda Hutton, 1320 Research Park Dr., Manhattan, KS, 66502.

Hearing for proposed changes to meat and poultry inspection regulations

<a href="mailto:melgares@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By Pat Melgares</a> K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. – An idea spawned at Kansas State University to support rural grocery stores in transition to new ownership has grown into a network of resource providers in 11 states.

Clara Misenhelter, a program manager with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ruralgrocery.org/">K-State’s Rural Grocery Initiative</a>, credits an online course for helping to address a growing concern in rural communities.

“In 2021, the Rural Grocery Initiative surveyed rural Kansas grocers and found that nearly 1 in 4 planned to retire within five years,” Misenhelter said. “Of those, the vast majority – 73% – did not have a plan for how store ownership would transition after their retirement.”

Beginning last year, the Rural Grocery Initiative hosted an online course to train those already working in rural communities with a baseline knowledge around what it takes to successfully transition a rural grocery store.

In 2024, 19 students in 11 states – Kansas included – completed the course, according to Misenhelter.

“Supporting grocery store owners through times of transition is critical to ensuring that rural communities retain access to their local grocery stores,” Misenhelter said.

Between 2008 and 2018, 1 in 5 Kansas grocery stores closed, a trend that Misenhelter said is also seen across the United States.

“Rural grocery stores are critical infrastructure in rural communities,” Misenhelter said. “Locally owned grocery stores contribute to their community’s health, economy and society. Keeping these stores open is critical.”

The online course is designed for extension professionals, community economic developers and others who provide resources and support to rural grocery stores across the country. Misenhelter said classes address such topics as building relationships with grocery store owners and managers; transition planning; business valuation; and other tools to support rural grocery stores.

“The assignments in the course are intentionally designed to have real-world applications,” she said.

More information, including how to sign up for a future course,&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralgrocery.org/specialist">is available online</a>&nbsp;from the Rural Grocery Initiative.

<a href="mailto:melgares@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By Pat Melgares</a> K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. – An idea spawned at Kansas State University to support rural grocery stores in transition to new ownership has grown into a network of resource providers in 11 states.Clara Misenhelter, a program manager with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ruralgrocery.org/">K-State’s Rural Grocery Initiative</a>, credits an online course for helping to address a growing concern in rural communities.“In 2021, the Rural Grocery Initiative surveyed rural Kansas grocers and found that nearly 1 in 4 planned to retire within five years,” Misenhelter said. “Of those, the vast majority – 73% – did not have a plan for how store ownership would transition after their retirement.”Beginning last year, the Rural Grocery Initiative hosted an online course to train those already working in rural communities with a baseline knowledge around what it takes to successfully transition a rural grocery store.In 2024, 19 students in 11 states – Kansas included – completed the course, according to Misenhelter.“Supporting grocery store owners through times of transition is critical to ensuring that rural communities retain access to their local grocery stores,” Misenhelter said.Between 2008 and 2018, 1 in 5 Kansas grocery stores closed, a trend that Misenhelter said is also seen across the United States.“Rural grocery stores are critical infrastructure in rural communities,” Misenhelter said. “Locally owned grocery stores contribute to their community’s health, economy and society. Keeping these stores open is critical.”The online course is designed for extension professionals, community economic developers and others who provide resources and support to rural grocery stores across the country. Misenhelter said classes address such topics as building relationships with grocery store owners and managers; transition planning; business valuation; and other tools to support rural grocery stores.“The assignments in the course are intentionally designed to have real-world applications,” she said.More information, including how to sign up for a future course,&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralgrocery.org/specialist">is available online</a>&nbsp;from the Rural Grocery Initiative.

K-State online course aids efforts to keep rural grocery stores open

Fort Riley and the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/1stInfantryDivision?__cft__[0]=AZXcsULwgYe_a4GGwjTfnW7M8Khzu3nK9BC5okDHOT6vbxwiKw7yBDQ54R2fi-8epwVKKRow_8icr9EDFA2cEK88eRnFOzZHfgbChFpUh-kfOj8tl-mauBcjtlR4TII0pbE8FsvsYvLA58DA6b83cQbY-U5d76QRdpkeI3U0ZDZpTRKpbS68EO17GTMTZa1fAYDtRVX-X8V3T3Bkh_4dN8ni&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">1st Infantry Division</a> will resume normal operations Thursday, February 20, 2025. Installation agencies, services, facilities and gates will operate on regular weekday schedules&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fort Riley and the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/1stInfantryDivision?__cft__[0]=AZXcsULwgYe_a4GGwjTfnW7M8Khzu3nK9BC5okDHOT6vbxwiKw7yBDQ54R2fi-8epwVKKRow_8icr9EDFA2cEK88eRnFOzZHfgbChFpUh-kfOj8tl-mauBcjtlR4TII0pbE8FsvsYvLA58DA6b83cQbY-U5d76QRdpkeI3U0ZDZpTRKpbS68EO17GTMTZa1fAYDtRVX-X8V3T3Bkh_4dN8ni&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">1st Infantry Division</a> will resume normal operations Thursday, February 20, 2025. Installation agencies, services, facilities and gates will operate on regular weekday schedules&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fort Riley returns to normal operations Thursday

JUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;– Students throughout Geary County Schools USD 475 are being taught by some of the best and brightest teachers in the state of Kansas.&nbsp;

At Junction City High School this is truly seen as the Blue Jays are blessed to have two published authors on staff in Megan Munger and David Mealing. Munger currently teachers English IV and English I and II Composition, while Mealing oversees English III, as well as AP Language and Composition.&nbsp;

Munger, who is currently in her third-year teaching in USD 475 and is a Pittsburg native, has based most of her writing in autobiography and has been a prolific journal writer since she was a teenager. She began writing poetry in high school, but it wasn’t until she began working on her master’s at Pittsburg State University that Munger really began to dive deep into poetry writing and began thinking that her work could actually be published. Through a little encouragement by her professors at Pitt State, she was able to see her dream become a reality.&nbsp;“I've only been seriously submitting poetry for the last year or so as I'm working on my second master's through Pacific University. 

This Master of Fine Arts in Writing program is low residency, meaning it's mostly correspondence and online, but I also spend about two weeks twice a year studying in Oregon. I've gained more confidence in my writing, and I sent out 100 poems last year for the first time ever. I also have a manuscript-in-progress that was born out of the poetry that I wrote during my first master's at Pitt State, so I keep revising and sending that out to publishers as well. Currently, I have about a dozen poems published or forthcoming. They are published in literary magazines and journals. Some are online, and some are in print,” said Munger.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

By seeing her writing published in different magazines and journals, Munger has truly been able to inspire her students, daily.&nbsp;“I'm a full-time student and full-time English teacher, which is a delicate balance for me, but also a great way to model the importance of self-discipline and self-care for my students. I value vulnerability and honesty in my classroom above all else, and all good writing has those two qualities,” said Munger. “I also try to foster the understanding that good writing requires a lot of work, but it's worth it because of what it can teach you about yourself in the process. Bravery and courage are only developed through doing difficult things, and writing well is one of many difficult but worthwhile tasks they will do in their lives. Publishing has taught me more about revision and rejection than anything else has, so I try to use my experiences as honest examples with my students. Mostly, I hope that my love for school and writing inspires them to do well and to confidently love what they love.”

Like Munger, Mealing, who began working in USD 475 in 2024 following winter break and is originally from a surf town in San Clemente, Calif., shares the same love for teaching. He is in his first year as a licensed teacher thanks to Kansas State University’s MAT program, which offers a one-year path to teaching program. He has been a storyteller and reader his whole life.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Most of my early storytelling experience came from being a DM for pen and paper roleplaying games. I playedDungeonsand Dragons since I was five years old, but I never attempted to write anything more than an academic essay for college or high school until I started writing my first novel, Soul of the World,” said Mealing.&nbsp;So far Mealing has published three epic fantasy novels in the United States, United Kingdom and Australia. 

His first book that he had published was translated into German, while all three have been published in Polish. His first novel, Soul of the World, was published in English in 2016, while the second, Blood of the Gods, in 2018, and the third, Chains of the Earth, in 2023. All three are part of The Ascension Cycle trilogy and have been sold to publishers all over the world.“The series started during a week-long vacation to the big island of Hawaii with my wife. I’d brought a copy of Brandon Sanderson’s newly released Words of Radiance to read, and I did, all 1,000 pages, cover to cover, in a week,” said Mealing. “The whole time I was reading it I was thinking to myself, why am I not writing books like this? And so, I started writing. I wrote the first two chapters in our rented beach house, kept working on the plane, and never stopped until I had a completed first draft of Soul of the World nine months later.”

Through his writing, Mealing has not only been able to impact and connect with his students, daily, but also inspire them to reach towards their dreams and have goals following life after their time in the hallways of JCHS is done. He keeps a physical copy of each of his books in his classroom to do just that.&nbsp;“Having my name on physical books adds an air of authority to what I say about writing, but it is also a conversation starter with my students that helps demystify the idea that authors are these untouchable, quasi-mythical figures. They aren’t. They’re people like any of us, with hopes, dreams and stories to tell. My hope is that it inspires some of them to try their hand at writing a book of their own,” said Mealing, who hopes to be able to teach a creative writing class next school year.&nbsp;

By Matt Hoover&nbsp;USD 475 Communications CoordinatorJUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;– Students throughout Geary County Schools USD 475 are being taught by some of the best and brightest teachers in the state of Kansas.&nbsp;At Junction City High School this is truly seen as the Blue Jays are blessed to have two published authors on staff in Megan Munger and David Mealing. Munger currently teachers English IV and English I and II Composition, while Mealing oversees English III, as well as AP Language and Composition.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740006226766.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Munger, who is currently in her third-year teaching in USD 475 and is a Pittsburg native, has based most of her writing in autobiography and has been a prolific journal writer since she was a teenager. She began writing poetry in high school, but it wasn’t until she began working on her master’s at Pittsburg State University that Munger really began to dive deep into poetry writing and began thinking that her work could actually be published. Through a little encouragement by her professors at Pitt State, she was able to see her dream become a reality.&nbsp;“I've only been seriously submitting poetry for the last year or so as I'm working on my second master's through Pacific University. This Master of Fine Arts in Writing program is low residency, meaning it's mostly correspondence and online, but I also spend about two weeks twice a year studying in Oregon. I've gained more confidence in my writing, and I sent out 100 poems last year for the first time ever. I also have a manuscript-in-progress that was born out of the poetry that I wrote during my first master's at Pitt State, so I keep revising and sending that out to publishers as well. Currently, I have about a dozen poems published or forthcoming. They are published in literary magazines and journals. Some are online, and some are in print,” said Munger.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;By seeing her writing published in different magazines and journals, Munger has truly been able to inspire her students, daily.&nbsp;“I'm a full-time student and full-time English teacher, which is a delicate balance for me, but also a great way to model the importance of self-discipline and self-care for my students. I value vulnerability and honesty in my classroom above all else, and all good writing has those two qualities,” said Munger. “I also try to foster the understanding that good writing requires a lot of work, but it's worth it because of what it can teach you about yourself in the process. Bravery and courage are only developed through doing difficult things, and writing well is one of many difficult but worthwhile tasks they will do in their lives. Publishing has taught me more about revision and rejection than anything else has, so I try to use my experiences as honest examples with my students. Mostly, I hope that my love for school and writing inspires them to do well and to confidently love what they love.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740006303053.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Like Munger, Mealing, who began working in USD 475 in 2024 following winter break and is originally from a surf town in San Clemente, Calif., shares the same love for teaching. He is in his first year as a licensed teacher thanks to Kansas State University’s MAT program, which offers a one-year path to teaching program. He has been a storyteller and reader his whole life.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Most of my early storytelling experience came from being a DM for pen and paper roleplaying games. I playedDungeonsand Dragons since I was five years old, but I never attempted to write anything more than an academic essay for college or high school until I started writing my first novel, Soul of the World,” said Mealing.&nbsp;So far Mealing has published three epic fantasy novels in the United States, United Kingdom and Australia. His first book that he had published was translated into German, while all three have been published in Polish. His first novel, Soul of the World, was published in English in 2016, while the second, Blood of the Gods, in 2018, and the third, Chains of the Earth, in 2023. All three are part of The Ascension Cycle trilogy and have been sold to publishers all over the world.“The series started during a week-long vacation to the big island of Hawaii with my wife. I’d brought a copy of Brandon Sanderson’s newly released Words of Radiance to read, and I did, all 1,000 pages, cover to cover, in a week,” said Mealing. “The whole time I was reading it I was thinking to myself, why am I not writing books like this? And so, I started writing. I wrote the first two chapters in our rented beach house, kept working on the plane, and never stopped until I had a completed first draft of Soul of the World nine months later.”Through his writing, Mealing has not only been able to impact and connect with his students, daily, but also inspire them to reach towards their dreams and have goals following life after their time in the hallways of JCHS is done. He keeps a physical copy of each of his books in his classroom to do just that.&nbsp;“Having my name on physical books adds an air of authority to what I say about writing, but it is also a conversation starter with my students that helps demystify the idea that authors are these untouchable, quasi-mythical figures. They aren’t. They’re people like any of us, with hopes, dreams and stories to tell. My hope is that it inspires some of them to try their hand at writing a book of their own,” said Mealing, who hopes to be able to teach a creative writing class next school year.&nbsp;r&nbsp;&nbsp;

 Published Authors Impacting Students at JCHS

&nbsp; The St. Xavier High School Scholars Bowl team has qualified for state competition three years running. This year they went 2-3 at state, just missing finals on a tiebreaker.&nbsp;Congratulations&nbsp;to the team and Coach Alex Becker on a great season!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740004845246.jpeg" alt="Pictured left to right: Kaydence Wood, Miguel Weber, Janis Curit, Madison Deacon, Alex Becker (Coach), Arien Mangefel, Mya Black" />
 <figcaption>Pictured left to right: Kaydence Wood, Miguel Weber, Janis Curit, Madison Deacon, Alex Becker (Coach), Arien Mangefel, Mya Black</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; The St. Xavier High School Scholars Bowl team has qualified for state competition three years running. This year they went 2-3 at state, just missing finals on a tiebreaker.&nbsp;Congratulations&nbsp;to the team and Coach Alex Becker on a great season!

St.Fancis Xavier High School Scholars Bowl Team Accomplishments

--JUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;–Due to the extreme cold temperatures in the area and for the safety of our students and staff, Geary County Schools USD 475 will remain closed on Thursday, Feb. 20. All athletic and after-school activities have been canceled.

Stay safe and warm. We can’t wait to see our students and staff back in our schools on Friday, Feb. 21. USD 475 will continue to monitor the weather and will notify parents of any school closings or changes.

--USD 475 Board of Education meeting scheduled at 6 p.m. Thursday has been canceled.

--USD 383 Manhattan - Ogden Schools will be on a 2-hour delay for Thursday, February 20. Bus routes will begin 2 hours later than normal route time.

Middle and high schools: School day begins at 9:40 a.m. (instead of 7:40 a.m.). School dismissal time is the same - 2:50 p.m.

Elementary schools: School day begins at 10:45 a.m. (instead of 8:45 a.m.). School dismissal time is the same - 3:45 p.m.

Early Learning: Morning session will be canceled. Afternoon session will continue as normal. If students are there for full day sessions, the start time will be 10:40 a.m. School dismissal time is the same - 3:40 p.m.

--&nbsp;Due to extremely cold temperatures, St. Francis Xavier School in Junction City will be delayed 2 hours tomorrow, February 20th. Doors will open at 9:50, and school will begin at 10:20.

-- USD 473 Chapman will have a two-hour delay. All busses will run two hours late, and school will begin at 10:00 a.m.&nbsp;

--Abilene Schools will begin two-hours later than normal tomorrow, Thursday, February 20, 2025.

--USD 323 Rock Creek will open two hours late on Thursday

--USD 320 Wamego delayed two hours. No AM preschool

--Geary County Senior Center closed Thursday

--USD 378 Riley County will start two hours late

--USD 379 Clay County opening two hours late

--JUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;–Due to the extreme cold temperatures in the area and for the safety of our students and staff, Geary County Schools USD 475 will remain closed on Thursday, Feb. 20. All athletic and after-school activities have been canceled.Stay safe and warm. We can’t wait to see our students and staff back in our schools on Friday, Feb. 21. USD 475 will continue to monitor the weather and will notify parents of any school closings or changes.--USD 475 Board of Education meeting scheduled at 6 p.m. Thursday has been canceled.--USD 383 Manhattan - Ogden Schools will be on a 2-hour delay for Thursday, February 20. Bus routes will begin 2 hours later than normal route time.Middle and high schools: School day begins at 9:40 a.m. (instead of 7:40 a.m.). School dismissal time is the same - 2:50 p.m.Elementary schools: School day begins at 10:45 a.m. (instead of 8:45 a.m.). School dismissal time is the same - 3:45 p.m.Early Learning: Morning session will be canceled. Afternoon session will continue as normal. If students are there for full day sessions, the start time will be 10:40 a.m. School dismissal time is the same - 3:40 p.m.--&nbsp;Due to extremely cold temperatures, St. Francis Xavier School in Junction City will be delayed 2 hours tomorrow, February 20th. Doors will open at 9:50, and school will begin at 10:20.-- USD 473 Chapman will have a two-hour delay. All busses will run two hours late, and school will begin at 10:00 a.m.&nbsp;--Abilene Schools will begin two-hours later than normal tomorrow, Thursday, February 20, 2025.--USD 323 Rock Creek will open two hours late on Thursday--USD 320 Wamego delayed two hours. No AM preschool--Geary County Senior Center closed Thursday--USD 378 Riley County will start two hours late--USD 379 Clay County opening two hours late--USD 487 Herington delayed two hours--USD 417 Morris County closed Thursday

Postponements and Cancellations, Thursday, Feb. 20 

Executive Director Jodi Mason says that the Magdalene Project has a warming shelter open at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 126 W. 7th Street in JC.&nbsp; It is a 24/7 shelter with three hot meals and will be open until noon on Sunday, Feb. 23rd.

A key point is that this is for anyone without heat (ie: utilities&nbsp;are off), not just those that are unhoused.&nbsp; They are also looking for more 6-hour shift volunteers.&nbsp; The link to sign up for that is:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B48A5A62BA0FDC52-55060607-feb1520#/">https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B48A5A62</a>

You can volunteer to cover a 6-hour shift, donate blankets or sleeping bags, drop off supplies (cleaning, TP, bottled water) or sign up to provide a warm meal.

Executive Director Jodi Mason says that the Magdalene Project has a warming shelter open at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 126 W. 7th Street in JC.&nbsp; It is a 24/7 shelter with three hot meals and will be open until noon on Sunday, Feb. 23rd. A key point is that this is for anyone without heat (ie: utilities&nbsp;are off), not just those that are unhoused.&nbsp; They are also looking for more 6-hour shift volunteers.&nbsp; The link to sign up for that is:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B48A5A62BA0FDC52-55060607-feb1520#/">https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B48A5A62</a>You can volunteer to cover a 6-hour shift, donate blankets or sleeping bags, drop off supplies (cleaning, TP, bottled water) or sign up to provide a warm meal.

Magdalene Project has a warming shelter open

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

Elisa Pogue, Failure to appear, arrested 02/14

Sylvester Jackson, Interference with LEO, Unlawful damage to property; Disorderly conduct, arrested 02/15

Mason Osteen, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 02/15

Ethan Torres, Failure to appear, arrested 02/15

John Hurley, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, Possession of a controlled substance, Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Failure to appear, arrested 02/15

Christopher Bradford, Failure to appear, arrested 02/15

Alicia Hamlin, Cancelled/suspended/revoked drivers license, arrested 02/15

Brianna Little, Arrest by LEO, Warrant arrest, arrested 02/15

Jacob Bruce, Interference with LEO, Cancelled/suspended/revoked drivers license, Theft-motor vehicle parts and accessories, arrested 02/15

Valaun Turner, Failure to appear, arrested 02/16

Angelica Newman, Aggravated battery, Knowingly cause great bodily harm or disfigurement, arrested 02/17

Antonio Herrera, Failure to give information or render aid, arrested 02/18

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/2025/2/1739994806171.jpeg" alt="Amanda Smith, Arrest by LEO, Warrant arrest, arrested 02/14" />
 <figcaption>Amanda Smith, Arrest by LEO, Warrant arrest, arrested 02/14</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739994847484.jpeg" alt="Jeremiah Warren, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor&nbsp; warrant service or execution; Aggravated battery, Knowingly cause great bodily harm or disfigurement, arrested 02/15" />
 <figcaption>Jeremiah Warren, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor&nbsp; warrant service or execution; Aggravated battery, Knowingly cause great bodily harm or disfigurement, arrested 02/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739994957522.jpeg" alt="David Gulley, Possession of controlled substance, Traffic contraband into correctional facility, Possession of THC, Transporting an open container, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 02/16" />
 <figcaption>David Gulley, Possession of controlled substance, Traffic contraband into correctional facility, Possession of THC, Transporting an open container, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 02/16</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739995135140.jpeg" alt="Kay Bozeman, Domestic battery, arrested 02/18" />
 <figcaption>Kay Bozeman, Domestic battery, arrested 02/18</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Elisa Pogue, Failure to appear, arrested 02/14Sylvester Jackson, Interference with LEO, Unlawful damage to property; Disorderly conduct, arrested 02/15Mason Osteen, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 02/15Ethan Torres, Failure to appear, arrested 02/15John Hurley, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, Possession of a controlled substance, Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Failure to appear, arrested 02/15Christopher Bradford, Failure to appear, arrested 02/15Alicia Hamlin, Cancelled/suspended/revoked drivers license, arrested 02/15Brianna Little, Arrest by LEO, Warrant arrest, arrested 02/15Jacob Bruce, Interference with LEO, Cancelled/suspended/revoked drivers license, Theft-motor vehicle parts and accessories, arrested 02/15Valaun Turner, Failure to appear, arrested 02/16Angelica Newman, Aggravated battery, Knowingly cause great bodily harm or disfigurement, arrested 02/17Antonio Herrera, Failure to give information or render aid, arrested 02/18Recent 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. 15-19

DICKINSON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 9a.m. Wednesday in Dickinson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Freightliner 206 driven by&nbsp; Marlon A.&nbsp;Castro Montes De Oca, 25, Portland, Oregon, was&nbsp;eastbound on Kansas 18 three and one half miles east of the K18/K15 East Junction.

The truck veered off the right shoulder and came to rest in a river embankment.&nbsp; EMS transported the driver to Salina Regional Medical Center. The KHP did not have seat belt usage details

DICKINSON COUNTY —While the snow has moved on, icy spots remain, and we’re still responding to crashes caused by slick conditions.

On Wednesday morning on&nbsp; Kansas Highway 18 near Paint Road in Dickinson County, KHP troopers and Dickinson County deputies responded to a single-vehicle injury crash, according to Trooper Ben Gardner.

A box truck left the highway, traveled into the south ditch, and ended up along a river embankment. The driver was transported to a Salina hospital with injuries, and troopers are following up to gather more details.

Even when the road looks clear, hidden icy patches can cause your vehicle to shift unexpectedly—before you know it, you’re just along for the ride.

Slow down. Stay alert. Adjust your driving well in advance for icy spots, drifting snow, debris, or slowed traffic. 

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739990527316.png" alt="Photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 9a.m. Wednesday in Dickinson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Freightliner 206 driven by&nbsp; Marlon A.&nbsp;Castro Montes De Oca, 25, Portland, Oregon, was&nbsp;eastbound on Kansas 18 three and one half miles east of the K18/K15 East Junction.The truck veered off the right shoulder and came to rest in a river embankment.&nbsp; EMS transported the driver to Salina Regional Medical Center. The KHP did not have seat belt usage details--------------DICKINSON COUNTY —While the snow has moved on, icy spots remain, and we’re still responding to crashes caused by slick conditions.On Wednesday morning on&nbsp; Kansas Highway 18 near Paint Road in Dickinson County, KHP troopers and Dickinson County deputies responded to a single-vehicle injury crash, according to Trooper Ben Gardner.A box truck left the highway, traveled into the south ditch, and ended up along a river embankment. The driver was transported to a Salina hospital with injuries, and troopers are following up to gather more details.Even when the road looks clear, hidden icy patches can cause your vehicle to shift unexpectedly—before you know it, you’re just along for the ride.Slow down. Stay alert. Adjust your driving well in advance for icy spots, drifting snow, debris, or slowed traffic. Check the Post for additional details as they become available.&nbsp;

Driver injured after truck slides on the ice into river embankment

Pat Landes will serve as Junction City mayor. He was elected by his fellow city commissioners Tuesday night for the remaining one year of a term that had been left vacant by the recent resignation of Jeff Underhill. The vote for mayor&nbsp; was 4-1.

There were other nominations with Al Gordon nominating himself but there was not any second and Ronna Larson declining a nomination. Al Gordon was elected vice mayor on a 3-2 vote.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739935716538.jpeg" alt="Mayor Pat Landes" />
 <figcaption>Mayor Pat Landes</figcaption>
 </figure>Pat Landes will serve as Junction City mayor. He was elected by his fellow city commissioners Tuesday night for the remaining one year of a term that had been left vacant by the recent resignation of Jeff Underhill. The vote for mayor&nbsp; was 4-1.There were other nominations with Al Gordon nominating himself but there was not any second and Ronna Larson declining a nomination. Al Gordon was elected vice mayor on a 3-2 vote.

Pat Landes will serve as Junction City Mayor

GEARY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Tuesday in Geary County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Nissan Frontier driven by Lakota Allen&nbsp;Poe, 23, Bronaugh, Montana, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Kansas 57.

The driver lost control of the pickup as it traveled over a patch of ice. The vehicle struck the center guardrail.

EMS transported a passenger Sirinity&nbsp;Pritchard, 18, Junction City, to Stormont Vail in Junction City. Poe was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

GEARY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Tuesday in Geary County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Nissan Frontier driven by Lakota Allen&nbsp;Poe, 23, Bronaugh, Montana, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Kansas 57.The driver lost control of the pickup as it traveled over a patch of ice. The vehicle struck the center guardrail.EMS transported a passenger Sirinity&nbsp;Pritchard, 18, Junction City, to Stormont Vail in Junction City. Poe was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Junction City teen hospitalized after I-70 crash

Junction City Commissioners have voted to appoint Ricardo Gutierrez to a seat on the governing body. He will fill the vacancy created by the recent resignation of Jeff Underhill from the commission.

Gutierrez introduced himself, noting he retired from the military and&nbsp; in his last assignment served as Command Sgt.Major at Irwin Army Community Hospital. He has held multiple leadership positions and has two master's degrees. His passions are youth and the needy.

Gutierrez was elected by his fellow commissioners after a series of failed nominations and two rounds of voting. Others who received nominations but not enough votes to gain approval included Bob Story, Lorraine Ceniceros, Alex Tyson and Jim Germann. Commissioners were split in their support for the different candidates. The vote for Gutiereez was 3-1 on the second round of voting.

There was some discussion about possibly using a weighted nomination process, addressing the matter at the March 4 commission meeting or even having a special election, but none of those ideas gained approval. Gutierrez was seated on the commission immediately after the voting.

The term to be filled by Gutierrez runs for the remainder of this year.

Junction City Commissioners have voted to appoint Ricardo Gutierrez to a seat on the governing body. He will fill the vacancy created by the recent resignation of Jeff Underhill from the commission.Gutierrez introduced himself, noting he retired from the military and&nbsp; in his last assignment served as Command Sgt.Major at Irwin Army Community Hospital. He has held multiple leadership positions and has two master's degrees. His passions are youth and the needy.Gutierrez was elected by his fellow commissioners after a series of failed nominations and two rounds of voting. Others who received nominations but not enough votes to gain approval included Bob Story, Lorraine Ceniceros, Alex Tyson and Jim Germann. Commissioners were split in their support for the different candidates. The vote for Gutiereez was 3-1 on the second round of voting.There was some discussion about possibly using a weighted nomination process, addressing the matter at the March 4 commission meeting or even having a special election, but none of those ideas gained approval. Gutierrez was seated on the commission immediately after the voting.The term to be filled by Gutierrez runs for the remainder of this year.

Ricardo Gutierrez joins the Junction City Commission

Public Works Director Ray Ibarra confirms that Junction City public works crews are working to clear primary and arterial streets. Once snow and slush are removed the bitter cold will still result in snowpacked streets.

Private contractors will be brought in Wednesday into four sections to help clear residential streets. Salt does not melt snowpacked roads until the temperature is above 20 degrees.

Public Works Director Ray Ibarra confirms that Junction City public works crews are working to clear primary and arterial streets. Once snow and slush are removed the bitter cold will still result in snowpacked streets.Private contractors will be brought in Wednesday into four sections to help clear residential streets. Salt does not melt snowpacked roads until the temperature is above 20 degrees.

Crews work to clear streets

--Geary County Schools USD 475 will be closed on Wednesday. • 

--St. Francis Xavier School will be delayed 2 hours Wednesday, February 19th. Doors will open at 9:50, and school will begin at 10:20.

--USD 383 Manhattan - Ogden is closed on Wednesday.

--Manhattan Catholic Schools is closed on Wednesday.

Fort Riley to delay start of work day February 19

Fort Riley offices and 1st Infantry Division units will operate with a 9:30 a.m. start time Wednesday. All gates will be open normal operating hours.&nbsp;

Irwin Army Community Hospital and the medical clinics will operate on normal hours. All dental clinics will open at 9:30 a.m.&nbsp;

Child Development Centers and the School Age Center will open at 8:30 a.m. All fitness centers will operate on normal hours.&nbsp;

Soldiers and civilian employees can contact their chain of command and supervisors for more details and work reporting requirements.&nbsp;

All Army Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) facilities and the Fort Riley Commissary will open at 10 a.m.&nbsp;

--&nbsp;Due to the continued dangerously cold wind chill, Abilene Schools, USD #435 will not have school tomorrow, Wednesday, February 19th.&nbsp;

---JC Breakfast Optimist Club meeting on Wednesday has been canceled due to weather

--USD 473 Chapman will be closed Wednesday.

--Manhattan Area Technical College delayed one hour Wednesday.

--USD 323 Rock Creek closed and all activities are postponed.

--USD 379 Clay County opening two hours late with no morning preschool.

--USD 384 Blue Valley opening two hours late with no morning preschool.

--Junction City Elks Lodge closed Wednesday

--Geary County Schools USD 475 will be closed on Wednesday. • --USD 320 Wamego closed Wednesday--USD 487 Heringtton closed.--St. Francis Xavier School will be delayed 2 hours Wednesday, February 19th. Doors will open at 9:50, and school will begin at 10:20.--USD 383 Manhattan - Ogden is closed on Wednesday.--Manhattan Catholic Schools is closed on Wednesday.Fort Riley to delay start of work day February 19Fort Riley offices and 1st Infantry Division units will operate with a 9:30 a.m. start time Wednesday. All gates will be open normal operating hours.&nbsp;Irwin Army Community Hospital and the medical clinics will operate on normal hours. All dental clinics will open at 9:30 a.m.&nbsp;Child Development Centers and the School Age Center will open at 8:30 a.m. All fitness centers will operate on normal hours.&nbsp;Soldiers and civilian employees can contact their chain of command and supervisors for more details and work reporting requirements.&nbsp;All Army Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) facilities and the Fort Riley Commissary will open at 10 a.m.&nbsp;--&nbsp;Due to the continued dangerously cold wind chill, Abilene Schools, USD #435 will not have school tomorrow, Wednesday, February 19th.&nbsp;---JC Breakfast Optimist Club meeting on Wednesday has been canceled due to weather--USD 473 Chapman will be closed Wednesday.--Manhattan Area Technical College delayed one hour Wednesday.--USD 323 Rock Creek closed and all activities are postponed.--USD 417 Morris County closed Wednesday--USD 481 Rural Vista closed Wednesday--USD 378 Riley County closed--USD 379 Clay County opening two hours late with no morning preschool.--USD 384 Blue Valley opening two hours late with no morning preschool.--Junction City Elks Lodge closed Wednesday

Postponements and Cancellations for Wednesday, Feb. 19

The Topeka High Lady Trojans beat the Junction City Lady Jays 76-23 on Monday night. 

Topeka High won the opening tip and jumped out to an early lead and never looked back. After the first quarter, T-High led 25-8. The second quarter was very similar to the first, with JC again only scoring eight points. The Lady Trojans led 41-16 at the half. 

The third quarter is where Topeka pulled away, outscoring the Lady Jays 24-2 in the quarter to lead 65-18. The fourth quarter featured a running clock, and Topeka High beat JC 76-23. The Lady Trojans swept the Lady Jays this season. 

Junction City Freshman Isabel Pruitt led the team with 10 points, and junior Morgan Nabus had seven. 

Junction City falls to 1-16 on the season. 

The Junction City Blue Jays entered Monday night's matchup having lost six of their last eight games. The Blue Jays recovered from a slow start and beat Topeka 81-65. 

The Trojans began the game hitting their first three shots and led the Blue Jays for much of the first quarter, but JC recovered and led 16-12 after the first quarter. 

In the second quarter, Junction City exploded on offense and outscored T-High 29-11. The Blue Jays led by 20, 45-25 at halftime. 

Junction City controlled the game in the second half, leading by as many as 27 points. The Trojans tried to make it interesting down the stretch, cutting the lead to 14 late in the game, but Junction City held on and won, 81-65. 

The Blue Jays were led in scoring by senior Ja'Twaan Williams with 25 points. Senior Jackson Austin had 19, senior Larkin Turner had 15, and senior Isiah Handy added 12 points. 

Junction City improves to 11-6 on the year and, hosts Manhattan on Friday night for senior night.

By Anthony GorgesJC PostGirls recapThe Topeka High Lady Trojans beat the Junction City Lady Jays 76-23 on Monday night. Topeka High won the opening tip and jumped out to an early lead and never looked back. After the first quarter, T-High led 25-8. The second quarter was very similar to the first, with JC again only scoring eight points. The Lady Trojans led 41-16 at the half. The third quarter is where Topeka pulled away, outscoring the Lady Jays 24-2 in the quarter to lead 65-18. The fourth quarter featured a running clock, and Topeka High beat JC 76-23. The Lady Trojans swept the Lady Jays this season. Junction City Freshman Isabel Pruitt led the team with 10 points, and junior Morgan Nabus had seven. Junction City falls to 1-16 on the season. Boys recapThe Junction City Blue Jays entered Monday night's matchup having lost six of their last eight games. The Blue Jays recovered from a slow start and beat Topeka 81-65. The Trojans began the game hitting their first three shots and led the Blue Jays for much of the first quarter, but JC recovered and led 16-12 after the first quarter. In the second quarter, Junction City exploded on offense and outscored T-High 29-11. The Blue Jays led by 20, 45-25 at halftime. Junction City controlled the game in the second half, leading by as many as 27 points. The Trojans tried to make it interesting down the stretch, cutting the lead to 14 late in the game, but Junction City held on and won, 81-65. The Blue Jays were led in scoring by senior Ja'Twaan Williams with 25 points. Senior Jackson Austin had 19, senior Larkin Turner had 15, and senior Isiah Handy added 12 points. Junction City improves to 11-6 on the year and, hosts Manhattan on Friday night for senior night.