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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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/2023/6/1685806961538.jpeg" alt="Leron Allen Byrd-Dixon, Failure to appear; Arrested 06/02/2023" />
 <figcaption>Leron Allen Byrd-Dixon, Failure to appear; Arrested 06/02/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685809023233.jpeg" alt="Christopher Michael Dansro, Probation Violation; Arrested 06/03/2023" />
 <figcaption>Christopher Michael Dansro, Probation Violation; Arrested 06/03/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685809183591.jpeg" alt="Schuyler Grady Emery Munn, DUI-Liquor/drugs(1st offense); Exceeding posted speed limits, Arrested 06/03/2023" />
 <figcaption>Schuyler Grady Emery Munn, DUI-Liquor/drugs(1st offense); Exceeding posted speed limits, Arrested 06/03/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685809283298.jpeg" alt="Neko Jacob Allen Jones, Parole violation; Arrested 06/02/2023" />
 <figcaption>Neko Jacob Allen Jones, Parole violation; Arrested 06/02/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685809574622.jpeg" alt="Donte Rayvone Roberts, Outside warrant x2; Arrested 06/02/2023" />
 <figcaption>Donte Rayvone Roberts, Outside warrant x2; Arrested 06/02/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685809651171.jpeg" alt="Christina Seldon, Failure to appear; Arrested 06/03/2023" />
 <figcaption>Christina Seldon, Failure to appear; Arrested 06/03/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685809709005.jpeg" alt="Kiara Luann Vazquez Bezares, Aggravated assault; Use of a deadly weapon; Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption; Domestic battery; rude physical contact w/family member or dating relationship 2nd/5yrs" />
 <figcaption>Kiara Luann Vazquez Bezares, Aggravated assault; Use of a deadly weapon; Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption; Domestic battery; rude physical contact w/family member or dating relationship 2nd/5yrs</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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos June 3

The city, like other local governmental&nbsp;units, is in the process of developing the budget for 2024. Of course, this is an important process as it sets the amount of money the city will have to operate with for the coming year. Meanwhile it &nbsp;sets the amount of property taxes that will be assessed to property owners. Even though the governing body will now focus on the budget, it is not something that just “happens”.&nbsp;

I often say&nbsp;budgeting&nbsp;is a year-round process. &nbsp;For the past couple of months City staff have work to develop&nbsp;the&nbsp;budget they will need for the upcoming year. Since this is being done, six to nine months before the end of the present year, there is a bit of “guessing” that has to occur. Let’s take the cost of fuel. &nbsp; At this time a year ago, the price of gasoline was quite a bit higher than it is now. &nbsp;Last year we used a $5 a gallon number for fuel, and so far, this year, fortunately the price is lower than a year ago. When we mentioned the $5 a year ago, there was some that felt that was&nbsp;still&nbsp;too low, but we compromised at the $5 mark. &nbsp;Even if something happens in the world and fuel prices rise, we should have enough money budgeted for this expense- and we all&nbsp;know&nbsp;the price of certain items is increasing greatly. We have to look into a “Crystal Ball” to make a prediction.&nbsp;

After each Department Head develops their budget they meet with Lindsay Miller, Finance Director, and me. We sit down and review each of the line items in that Department’s Budget. We focus on the “increases” from the current budget and try to figure out if an increase is warranted. We look at how much has been used in&nbsp;that line for this year, and also how much was spent each year of the past couple of years. Of course, that gives us some indication if there is a trend, and if there is,&nbsp;we try to see if we are meeting that trend. &nbsp;

Now yes, as we go through each line item, we sometimes make cuts in what has been requested because we feel the request was a bit “lofty” and there is room to cut back a bit in a line item. &nbsp;However, there are times, we feel the request is a bit low and we “up” the amount.

Now, I know some will say that the budgeted expenses should be cut, so taxes can be cut. Ok, I understand, but there are some items that can’t be cut. &nbsp; We talked about fuel expenses above. &nbsp;Regardless is the price of gas is at $3, $4 or $5 &nbsp;a gallon, the number of gallons needed for the city each year really does not change. Police Officers still need to patrol streets and we all want fire trucks and ambulances to “roll” when we make the call for them. Vehicles and equipment still has to be purchased or repaired. &nbsp;During the “tougher” financial times the city had to stretch the life of vehicles and equipment because there was no money available to spend.

Yes, it cut the expenses, but there was a “Day of Reckoning” when the city did not have adequate equipment to get the job done. For items such as police cars and ambulances we try to now have a rotation in place and attempt to make purchases on an “every-so-many years or miles” basis. &nbsp;When it is time to “roll” we have to able to do so.&nbsp;Not always a perfect system, but a goal&nbsp;

We all know that since COVID-19, there are some items such as vehicles, they are difficult to get. &nbsp;It used to be that we looked for the lowest cost, but now “how soon can we get it” may be a factor on making a purchase or an expense. &nbsp;We have had trash trucks purchased&nbsp;that took more than a year&nbsp;to arrive&nbsp;so they could be used here. &nbsp;Just a part of the game. We also have to live within “Cash Basis” laws. &nbsp;

If the City Commission approves a purchase this year, but even though it does not arrive for a year or two, it still is a current year expense and there has to be adequate budget authority and cash available. &nbsp;

We have talked about line items in each budget. &nbsp;Even though we try to “get it right” there will be times when a line item does&nbsp;not have enough “dollars”. &nbsp;In that case we are okay as we then look at the total spending authority for the total department.&nbsp;

The city budget includes a number of funds. &nbsp;Funds such as street, police, dispatch, fire, ambulance, and parks are all&nbsp;funded in most part by “tax” dollars as they are “General Fund” expenditures. &nbsp;Even though we want each of those budgets to stand on their own, we do have the ability to look at the total for all of these, just on case something happens and one of those&nbsp;exceedswhat was budgeted. &nbsp;Of course, we don’t want that to occur, but “things happens” &nbsp;and&nbsp;we&nbsp;have to be prepared.

If there is one thing that we learned during the financial crisis was that in the General Fund Departments, the “bigger” expenses had to rotate between the departments on a given year. &nbsp;In other words, big purchases were moved around, and every department could not fill their “wish list” each year. &nbsp;This financial management skill is still used today.&nbsp;

As I said earlier budgeting is a year-round process. &nbsp;Each month expenses are looked at and we see if adjustments have to be made. Staff monitors expenses and determines if city financial practices are followed.&nbsp;

Allen Dinkel, City ManagerThe city, like other local governmental&nbsp;units, is in the process of developing the budget for 2024. Of course, this is an important process as it sets the amount of money the city will have to operate with for the coming year. Meanwhile it &nbsp;sets the amount of property taxes that will be assessed to property owners. Even though the governing body will now focus on the budget, it is not something that just “happens”.&nbsp;I often say&nbsp;budgeting&nbsp;is a year-round process. &nbsp;For the past couple of months City staff have work to develop&nbsp;the&nbsp;budget they will need for the upcoming year. Since this is being done, six to nine months before the end of the present year, there is a bit of “guessing” that has to occur. Let’s take the cost of fuel. &nbsp; At this time a year ago, the price of gasoline was quite a bit higher than it is now. &nbsp;Last year we used a $5 a gallon number for fuel, and so far, this year, fortunately the price is lower than a year ago. When we mentioned the $5 a year ago, there was some that felt that was&nbsp;still&nbsp;too low, but we compromised at the $5 mark. &nbsp;Even if something happens in the world and fuel prices rise, we should have enough money budgeted for this expense- and we all&nbsp;know&nbsp;the price of certain items is increasing greatly. We have to look into a “Crystal Ball” to make a prediction.&nbsp;After each Department Head develops their budget they meet with Lindsay Miller, Finance Director, and me. We sit down and review each of the line items in that Department’s Budget. We focus on the “increases” from the current budget and try to figure out if an increase is warranted. We look at how much has been used in&nbsp;that line for this year, and also how much was spent each year of the past couple of years. Of course, that gives us some indication if there is a trend, and if there is,&nbsp;we try to see if we are meeting that trend. &nbsp;Now yes, as we go through each line item, we sometimes make cuts in what has been requested because we feel the request was a bit “lofty” and there is room to cut back a bit in a line item. &nbsp;However, there are times, we feel the request is a bit low and we “up” the amount.Now, I know some will say that the budgeted expenses should be cut, so taxes can be cut. Ok, I understand, but there are some items that can’t be cut. &nbsp; We talked about fuel expenses above. &nbsp;Regardless is the price of gas is at $3, $4 or $5 &nbsp;a gallon, the number of gallons needed for the city each year really does not change. Police Officers still need to patrol streets and we all want fire trucks and ambulances to “roll” when we make the call for them. Vehicles and equipment still has to be purchased or repaired. &nbsp;During the “tougher” financial times the city had to stretch the life of vehicles and equipment because there was no money available to spend.Yes, it cut the expenses, but there was a “Day of Reckoning” when the city did not have adequate equipment to get the job done. For items such as police cars and ambulances we try to now have a rotation in place and attempt to make purchases on an “every-so-many years or miles” basis. &nbsp;When it is time to “roll” we have to able to do so.&nbsp;Not always a perfect system, but a goal&nbsp;We all know that since COVID-19, there are some items such as vehicles, they are difficult to get. &nbsp;It used to be that we looked for the lowest cost, but now “how soon can we get it” may be a factor on making a purchase or an expense. &nbsp;We have had trash trucks purchased&nbsp;that took more than a year&nbsp;to arrive&nbsp;so they could be used here. &nbsp;Just a part of the game. We also have to live within “Cash Basis” laws. &nbsp;If the City Commission approves a purchase this year, but even though it does not arrive for a year or two, it still is a current year expense and there has to be adequate budget authority and cash available. &nbsp;We have talked about line items in each budget. &nbsp;Even though we try to “get it right” there will be times when a line item does&nbsp;not have enough “dollars”. &nbsp;In that case we are okay as we then look at the total spending authority for the total department.&nbsp;The city budget includes a number of funds. &nbsp;Funds such as street, police, dispatch, fire, ambulance, and parks are all&nbsp;funded in most part by “tax” dollars as they are “General Fund” expenditures. &nbsp;Even though we want each of those budgets to stand on their own, we do have the ability to look at the total for all of these, just on case something happens and one of those&nbsp;exceedswhat was budgeted. &nbsp;Of course, we don’t want that to occur, but “things happens” &nbsp;and&nbsp;we&nbsp;have to be prepared.If there is one thing that we learned during the financial crisis was that in the General Fund Departments, the “bigger” expenses had to rotate between the departments on a given year. &nbsp;In other words, big purchases were moved around, and every department could not fill their “wish list” each year. &nbsp;This financial management skill is still used today.&nbsp;As I said earlier budgeting is a year-round process. &nbsp;Each month expenses are looked at and we see if adjustments have to be made. Staff monitors expenses and determines if city financial practices are followed.&nbsp;

Five Fifteen Report 

MARION COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Friday in Marion County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Nissan Maxima driven by Mallory Anne&nbsp;Seirer, 19, Newton was westbound on U.S. 50. three and one half miles east of the U.S. 77 Junction.

The Nissan was passing a 2004 Freightliner semi driven by David Allen Williams, 52, Cedar Falls, Iowa.

Seirer observed an eastbound vehicle. She swerved, lost control of the Nissan and struck the semi. After impact the Nissan traveled across the eastbound lanes and came to a rest in the south ditch.

EMS transported Seirer to Wesley Medical Center. Williams was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680365303330.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MARION COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Friday in Marion County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Nissan Maxima driven by Mallory Anne&nbsp;Seirer, 19, Newton was westbound on U.S. 50. three and one half miles east of the U.S. 77 Junction.The Nissan was passing a 2004 Freightliner semi driven by David Allen Williams, 52, Cedar Falls, Iowa.Seirer observed an eastbound vehicle. She swerved, lost control of the Nissan and struck the semi. After impact the Nissan traveled across the eastbound lanes and came to a rest in the south ditch.EMS transported Seirer to Wesley Medical Center. Williams was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman hospitalized after crash with a semi

JUNCTION CITY - The Konza Prairie Community Health Center hosted Family 'Fun N Fit' Day on Friday, June 2nd at Playground Park.

Community members enjoyed fun family fitness activities, learned about safety awareness and how to make healthy choices.

More than 35 community organizations provided games, crafts and information, a fitness activity area, and local first responders brought out vehicles for families to explore.

Kids had the opportunity to receive a free bike helmet or life jacket while supplies lasted.

Family Fun-n-Fit Day is hosted by Konza Prairie Community Health Center WIC, the Geary Community Healthcare Foundation, and Pawnee Mental Health.

Learn more about Konza Prairie Community Health &amp; WIC at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kpchc.org/">www.kpchc.org</a>&nbsp;Learn more about the Geary Community Healthcare Foundation at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.gchcf.org/">www.gchcf.org</a>&nbsp;Learn more about Pawnee Mental Health at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pawnee.org/">www.pawnee.org</a>

by BECKY GOFF JC PostJUNCTION CITY - The Konza Prairie Community Health Center hosted Family 'Fun N Fit' Day on Friday, June 2nd at Playground Park.Community members enjoyed fun family fitness activities, learned about safety awareness and how to make healthy choices.More than 35 community organizations provided games, crafts and information, a fitness activity area, and local first responders brought out vehicles for families to explore.<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/p2vOIUsr-60zMcgvZ.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Fit N Fun Day" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Kids had the opportunity to receive a free bike helmet or life jacket while supplies lasted.Family Fun-n-Fit Day is hosted by Konza Prairie Community Health Center WIC, the Geary Community Healthcare Foundation, and Pawnee Mental Health.Learn more about Konza Prairie Community Health &amp; WIC at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kpchc.org/">www.kpchc.org</a>&nbsp;Learn more about the Geary Community Healthcare Foundation at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.gchcf.org/">www.gchcf.org</a>&nbsp;Learn more about Pawnee Mental Health at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pawnee.org/">www.pawnee.org</a>

'Fit N Fun' Day at Playground Park

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

MANHATTAN - The Riley County Police Department is looking for 16-year-old Neveah, who is believed to have run away sometime between midnight and 10:30 a.m. on May 31st.&nbsp;

Neveah was last known to be in the 3000 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd and RCPD says it's believed she may still be in the Manhattan area.

Neveah is approximately 5'8" tall and weighs 150 lbs. She has blue eyes and brown hair with highlights.

RCPD says it is unknown what she was wearing when she went missing.&nbsp;

RCPD also noted that Neveah's top braces have been removed since the picture was taken.

If you have any information about her whereabouts, please contact us at (785) 537-2112 or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MHKCrimeStoppers?__cft__[0]=AZUo7dSr1RBev_UtJtIBllDWJE8vbSOcLRHeqaJWNzcaJlQ87NByYa6qXVbhDybA2ooiFVVclqgCJ80gamD7zNoGw_-JQ5I0KRTAFEzlV65gUWh1oqewzVswt6UJ7IAmc68bOLqv0koyoTLthzlwEAiCspx7JBNgEmvDO6dUMxb4KMusNWEnWvwso7Jmdz-atPc&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers</a> at (785) 539-7777.&nbsp;&nbsp;

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685740779406.jpeg" alt="Neveah, picture from RCPD" />
 <figcaption>Neveah, picture from RCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN - The Riley County Police Department is looking for 16-year-old Neveah, who is believed to have run away sometime between midnight and 10:30 a.m. on May 31st.&nbsp;Neveah was last known to be in the 3000 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd and RCPD says it's believed she may still be in the Manhattan area.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2873.629533247069!2d-96.5799161243195!3d39.221007171656794!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bdce01fe8f2d7d%3A0x7f7dbd734dd86ae2!2s3000%20Tuttle%20Creek%20Blvd%2C%20Manhattan%2C%20KS%2066502!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1685740729085!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>Neveah is approximately 5'8" tall and weighs 150 lbs. She has blue eyes and brown hair with highlights.RCPD says it is unknown what she was wearing when she went missing.&nbsp;RCPD also noted that Neveah's top braces have been removed since the picture was taken.If you have any information about her whereabouts, please contact us at (785) 537-2112 or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MHKCrimeStoppers?__cft__[0]=AZUo7dSr1RBev_UtJtIBllDWJE8vbSOcLRHeqaJWNzcaJlQ87NByYa6qXVbhDybA2ooiFVVclqgCJ80gamD7zNoGw_-JQ5I0KRTAFEzlV65gUWh1oqewzVswt6UJ7IAmc68bOLqv0koyoTLthzlwEAiCspx7JBNgEmvDO6dUMxb4KMusNWEnWvwso7Jmdz-atPc&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers</a> at (785) 539-7777.&nbsp;&nbsp;

MISSING from MHK: Have you seen Nevaeh?

WASHINGTON –&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) – members of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation – introduced legislation to invest new federal resources into the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Center of Excellence (CoE) formed by Wichita State University and the University of Washington, according to a statement from his office. The&nbsp;Joint Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials and Safety Act&nbsp;broadens the scope of research conducted at the Centers of Excellence to include testing for accessible air travel for people with disabilities, including in-cabin wheelchair users and passengers with mobility challenges, as well as increases federal resources for the consortium to accommodate additional research capabilities. The bill also strengthens the centers’ research into advanced aerospace technologies such as carbon fiber polymers, thermoplastic composites and additive manufacturing. This research supports innovative future commercial aircraft designs. “Our universities are necessary partners and pivotal contributors to aviation safety research,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran, Ranking Member of the Commerce Aviation Subcommittee. “As the aviation industry continues to evolve, this legislation will help make certain the Joint Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials can continue identifying solutions for advanced structures and materials issues, while meeting the demands of a changing ecosystem to ensure that any passenger who chooses to fly can do so and in a safe manner. I am pleased this legislation will continue to support and invest in the important research conducted at Wichita State University in the Air Capital of the World.” “Continuing the mission of FAA’s Joint Centers of Excellence for Advanced Materials is critical to advancing U.S. leadership in advanced materials and composites that will make planes lighter, safer, and more fuel-efficient. Extending the Centers’ research to advance the safe use of wheelchair restraint systems and personal wheelchairs in flight is key to improving the passenger experience for individuals with disabilities,”&nbsp;said Sen. Cantwell, Chair of the Commerce Committee.&nbsp;“With this bill, Senator Moran and I will continue investing in collaborative research between the University of Washington and Wichita State University to make air travel safer and more accessible for all passengers.” “As the aerospace industry continues to advance, the need for high-performance materials is more critical than ever and Wichita State University strongly supports the continuation of the FAA Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials,”&nbsp;said John Tomblin, WSU senior V.P. for Industry and Defense Programs and director of the Center of Excellence for Composites and Advanced Materials (CECAM). “At the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR), we recognize the importance of investing in the development and testing of advanced materials to ensure the safety and sustainability of all aircraft and passengers. That's why we proudly support the FAA Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials and its critical role in identifying, adopting, and testing the next generation of advanced materials. We're also proud to support the expansion of this center and the Aviation Safety Act and its goals, such as identifying cost-efficient options for wheelchair space on commercial aircraft while ensuring safety for all passengers. We at NIAR, and the South-Central Kansas region, applaud Senator Moran for his efforts and continued support to ensure the safety and accessibility of our skies and for being an advocate for our economy by promoting research and workforce development in advanced materials for aerospace and the expanded focus on accessibility to travel for individuals with disabilities.” “At the University of Washington, we pride ourselves in leading transformative research in partnership with industry leaders to make new and safe applications of advanced materials and composites possible,”&nbsp;said Dr. Marco Salviato, Associate Professor in the William E. Boeing Department of Aeronautics &amp; Astronautics (A&amp;A) and Director of the Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials in Transport Aircraft Structures (AMTAS) at the University of Washington.&nbsp;“We welcome the opportunity to advance our work with our JAMS COE partners to research aircraft accessibility for all passengers using AMTAS expertise in computational crashworthiness modeling and CECAM’s state-of-the-art crash test facilities. We thank Senator Cantwell and Senator Moran for their continued support of the Joint Centers of Excellence for Advanced Materials and appreciate Senator Cantwell’s ongoing work to ensure Washington state continues to be a leader in aerospace research and innovation for years to come.” “All Wheels Up is very encouraged by the progress being made through the great support and leadership of Senator Cantwell and Senator Moran to achieve safe, accessible air travel for all,”&nbsp;said Michele Erwin, Founder and President of All Wheels Up.&nbsp;“The Joint Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials and Safety Act is an important and vital step towards making air travel truly accessible. Expanding the scope of the FAA Joint Centers of Excellence for Advanced Materials to include further research in aircraft accessibility and wheelchair restraint systems, among other areas which would enable individuals to use their personal wheelchairs in flight, is a significant milestone for our vision of accessible air travel where passengers remain safely in their personal wheelchairs when flying on commercial airplanes. We unequivocally support this Act and appreciate the work of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations, and Innovation to propel accessible air travel forward and inevitably achieve a shared goal - a wheelchair spot on airplanes that provides passengers a dignified, equitable and safe travel experience."

WASHINGTON –&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) – members of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation – introduced legislation to invest new federal resources into the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Center of Excellence (CoE) formed by Wichita State University and the University of Washington, according to a statement from his office. The&nbsp;Joint Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials and Safety Act&nbsp;broadens the scope of research conducted at the Centers of Excellence to include testing for accessible air travel for people with disabilities, including in-cabin wheelchair users and passengers with mobility challenges, as well as increases federal resources for the consortium to accommodate additional research capabilities. The bill also strengthens the centers’ research into advanced aerospace technologies such as carbon fiber polymers, thermoplastic composites and additive manufacturing. This research supports innovative future commercial aircraft designs. “Our universities are necessary partners and pivotal contributors to aviation safety research,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran, Ranking Member of the Commerce Aviation Subcommittee. “As the aviation industry continues to evolve, this legislation will help make certain the Joint Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials can continue identifying solutions for advanced structures and materials issues, while meeting the demands of a changing ecosystem to ensure that any passenger who chooses to fly can do so and in a safe manner. I am pleased this legislation will continue to support and invest in the important research conducted at Wichita State University in the Air Capital of the World.” “Continuing the mission of FAA’s Joint Centers of Excellence for Advanced Materials is critical to advancing U.S. leadership in advanced materials and composites that will make planes lighter, safer, and more fuel-efficient. Extending the Centers’ research to advance the safe use of wheelchair restraint systems and personal wheelchairs in flight is key to improving the passenger experience for individuals with disabilities,”&nbsp;said Sen. Cantwell, Chair of the Commerce Committee.&nbsp;“With this bill, Senator Moran and I will continue investing in collaborative research between the University of Washington and Wichita State University to make air travel safer and more accessible for all passengers.” “As the aerospace industry continues to advance, the need for high-performance materials is more critical than ever and Wichita State University strongly supports the continuation of the FAA Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials,”&nbsp;said John Tomblin, WSU senior V.P. for Industry and Defense Programs and director of the Center of Excellence for Composites and Advanced Materials (CECAM). “At the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR), we recognize the importance of investing in the development and testing of advanced materials to ensure the safety and sustainability of all aircraft and passengers. That's why we proudly support the FAA Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials and its critical role in identifying, adopting, and testing the next generation of advanced materials. We're also proud to support the expansion of this center and the Aviation Safety Act and its goals, such as identifying cost-efficient options for wheelchair space on commercial aircraft while ensuring safety for all passengers. We at NIAR, and the South-Central Kansas region, applaud Senator Moran for his efforts and continued support to ensure the safety and accessibility of our skies and for being an advocate for our economy by promoting research and workforce development in advanced materials for aerospace and the expanded focus on accessibility to travel for individuals with disabilities.” “At the University of Washington, we pride ourselves in leading transformative research in partnership with industry leaders to make new and safe applications of advanced materials and composites possible,”&nbsp;said Dr. Marco Salviato, Associate Professor in the William E. Boeing Department of Aeronautics &amp; Astronautics (A&amp;A) and Director of the Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials in Transport Aircraft Structures (AMTAS) at the University of Washington.&nbsp;“We welcome the opportunity to advance our work with our JAMS COE partners to research aircraft accessibility for all passengers using AMTAS expertise in computational crashworthiness modeling and CECAM’s state-of-the-art crash test facilities. We thank Senator Cantwell and Senator Moran for their continued support of the Joint Centers of Excellence for Advanced Materials and appreciate Senator Cantwell’s ongoing work to ensure Washington state continues to be a leader in aerospace research and innovation for years to come.” “All Wheels Up is very encouraged by the progress being made through the great support and leadership of Senator Cantwell and Senator Moran to achieve safe, accessible air travel for all,”&nbsp;said Michele Erwin, Founder and President of All Wheels Up.&nbsp;“The Joint Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials and Safety Act is an important and vital step towards making air travel truly accessible. Expanding the scope of the FAA Joint Centers of Excellence for Advanced Materials to include further research in aircraft accessibility and wheelchair restraint systems, among other areas which would enable individuals to use their personal wheelchairs in flight, is a significant milestone for our vision of accessible air travel where passengers remain safely in their personal wheelchairs when flying on commercial airplanes. We unequivocally support this Act and appreciate the work of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations, and Innovation to propel accessible air travel forward and inevitably achieve a shared goal - a wheelchair spot on airplanes that provides passengers a dignified, equitable and safe travel experience."

Moran introduces legislation to support aviation safety, accessibility

🎤 Forward Ever: State Library of Kansas director of reference Cindy Roupe

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a registered Kansas sex offender on new allegations.

Just after 2 p.m. Thursday, police arrested Tavian Garrett, 26, of Junction City on a Riley County District Court warrant for probation violation, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

This warrant stems from a violation of probation from an original charge of aggravated indecent solicitation of a child. 

Garrett was issued a total bond of $10,000 and is no longer in custody. He has been listed as a registered offender since August, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685716051762.png" alt="Garrett-photo KBI Offender Registry" />
 <figcaption>Garrett-photo KBI Offender Registry</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a registered Kansas sex offender on new allegations.Just after 2 p.m. Thursday, police arrested Tavian Garrett, 26, of Junction City on a Riley County District Court warrant for probation violation, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.This warrant stems from a violation of probation from an original charge of aggravated indecent solicitation of a child. Garrett was issued a total bond of $10,000 and is no longer in custody. He has been listed as a registered offender since August, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

Junction City sex offender accused of new charges

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/2023/6/1685714019639.jpeg" alt="Kamel Dequan Brooks, Aggravated indecent liberties w/child; Intercourse with child 14&lt;16 YOA; Arrested 06/02/2023" />
 <figcaption>Kamel Dequan Brooks, Aggravated indecent liberties w/child; Intercourse with child 14&lt;16 YOA; Arrested 06/02/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685713002598.jpeg" alt="Donald Dean McDaniel, Distribute certain stimulant; 100 grams - &lt; 1 Kilogram; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont. substance; Arrested 06/01/2023" />
 <figcaption>Donald Dean McDaniel, Distribute certain stimulant; 100 grams - &lt; 1 Kilogram; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont. substance; Arrested 06/01/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685713127466.jpeg" alt="Tanya Lynn Minks, Distribute certain stimulant; 100 grams - &lt; 1 kilogram; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont. substance; Arrested 06/01/2023" />
 <figcaption>Tanya Lynn Minks, Distribute certain stimulant; 100 grams - &lt; 1 kilogram; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont. substance; Arrested 06/01/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685713237014.jpeg" alt="Michael Corey Peterson, Distribute opiate/narc/certain stim/heroin; Dose 10 - &lt; 100 in 1000' of school; Possession of drug paraphernalia; Arrested 06/01/2023" />
 <figcaption>Michael Corey Peterson, Distribute opiate/narc/certain stim/heroin; Dose 10 - &lt; 100 in 1000' of school; Possession of drug paraphernalia; Arrested 06/01/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685713323947.jpeg" alt="Hannah Ruth Pupillo, Distribute certain stimulant; 100 grams - &lt;1 kilogram; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont. substance; Arrested 06/01/2023" />
 <figcaption>Hannah Ruth Pupillo, Distribute certain stimulant; 100 grams - &lt;1 kilogram; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or cont. substance; Arrested 06/01/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685713744226.jpeg" alt="Donald Ray Thomas Second, Distribute marijuana; 25 - &lt; 450 grams; Possession of paraphernalia w/intent to manufacture/plant/cultivate controlled substance; Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp payment for marijuana or cont substance; Possession of marijuana; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Vehicles; Unlawful acts; e.g. registration; Vehicle liability insurance; Knowingly drive; uninsured vehicle; Criminal possession of weapon; convicted of person/drug felony; firearm used in crime; Distribute certain stimulant; 100 grams -&lt; 1 kilogram; Distribute opiate/opium/narcotic/stimulant/heroin; Dosage &gt; 1,000 units; Arrested 06/01/2023" />
 <figcaption>Donald Ray Thomas Second, Distribute marijuana; 25 - &lt; 450 grams; Possession of paraphernalia w/intent to manufacture/plant/cultivate controlled substance; Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp payment for marijuana or cont substance; Possession of marijuana; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Vehicles; Unlawful acts; e.g. registration; Vehicle liability insurance; Knowingly drive; uninsured vehicle; Criminal possession of weapon; convicted of person/drug felony; firearm used in crime; Distribute certain stimulant; 100 grams -&lt; 1 kilogram; Distribute opiate/opium/narcotic/stimulant/heroin; Dosage &gt; 1,000 units; Arrested 06/01/2023</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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos June 2

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects for an alleged violent crime in Manhattan.

Just before 11p.m. Thursday, police arrested&nbsp;Edwin Gonzalez, 28, of Manhattan on a Riley County District Court warrant for aggravated kidnapping, aggravated battery, and kidnapping, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

This warrant stems from a February 18, case where it was reported Gonzalez and Cecilia Chavez, 29, also of Manhattan held two men known to them inside a Manhattan apartment in the 700 block of Allison Avenue. Gonzalez and Chavez were armed with a shotgun.

 It was also reported they hit the men several times. Gonzalaz remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $50,000. Chavez was arrested in connection to this case on February 19.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects for an alleged violent crime in Manhattan.Just before 11p.m. Thursday, police arrested&nbsp;Edwin Gonzalez, 28, of Manhattan on a Riley County District Court warrant for aggravated kidnapping, aggravated battery, and kidnapping, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.This warrant stems from a February 18, case where it was reported Gonzalez and Cecilia Chavez, 29, also of Manhattan held two men known to them inside a Manhattan apartment in the 700 block of Allison Avenue. Gonzalez and Chavez were armed with a shotgun. It was also reported they hit the men several times. Gonzalaz remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $50,000. Chavez was arrested in connection to this case on February 19.

Police capture 2nd suspect in alleged Manhattan kidnapping

By NATE KING Salina Post

Twin Valley Communications announced earlier this year that they are bringing fiber internet service to Junction City’s 22,000 residents this year – with more than 500 residential homes and businesses slated for 2022, adding to the 300 businesses in the first phase of the project. Construction on Phase 2 is set to begin in June, and the company will roll out a new faster internet speed at 2 Gbps download and upload.&nbsp;

On this episode of "King in the Community" I sit down for a conversation with Twin Valley employees, Eric and Shaley, to hear how this expansion will positively impact not only the Junction City business community but also provide a faster and affordable internet option for home residences.

Twin Valley is a fourth-generation family-owned broadband and communications company based in Kansas. They have been innovating for more than 80 years to help unlock possibilities for families, businesses and communities for generations. As a full-service entertainment provider, they deliver hometown service with the cutting-edge technology of the most connected cities.

<div><iframe title="Shaley Johnson and Eric Tabor, Twin Valley Communications" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=jfiqp-1422430-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=1b1b1b&size=315" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By NATE KING Salina PostTwin Valley Communications announced earlier this year that they are bringing fiber internet service to Junction City’s 22,000 residents this year – with more than 500 residential homes and businesses slated for 2022, adding to the 300 businesses in the first phase of the project. Construction on Phase 2 is set to begin in June, and the company will roll out a new faster internet speed at 2 Gbps download and upload.&nbsp;On this episode of "King in the Community" I sit down for a conversation with Twin Valley employees, Eric and Shaley, to hear how this expansion will positively impact not only the Junction City business community but also provide a faster and affordable internet option for home residences.Twin Valley is a fourth-generation family-owned broadband and communications company based in Kansas. They have been innovating for more than 80 years to help unlock possibilities for families, businesses and communities for generations. As a full-service entertainment provider, they deliver hometown service with the cutting-edge technology of the most connected cities.

🎙King in the Community: Twin Valley Communications

According to a social media post made by the Junction City Brigade Facebook page,&nbsp; JC Brigade's season opening game tonight against the KC Knights has been cancelled.

JC BrigadeAccording to a social media post made by the Junction City Brigade Facebook page,&nbsp; JC Brigade's season opening game tonight against the KC Knights has been cancelled.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685644510678.png" alt="J.C. Brigade post regarding June 1 game at Rathert Stadium&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>J.C. Brigade post regarding June 1 game at Rathert Stadium&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>

JC Brigade season opening game cancelled

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/2023/6/1685631440193.jpeg" alt="Derrick Alphonso Black Junior, Stalking; After served a protection order prohibiting contact; Violate protection order; Stalking order per KSA 60-31a05, 60-31a06; Arrested 05/31/2023" />
 <figcaption>Derrick Alphonso Black Junior, Stalking; After served a protection order prohibiting contact; Violate protection order; Stalking order per KSA 60-31a05, 60-31a06; Arrested 05/31/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685631507581.jpeg" alt="James L Pratt, DUI-liquor/drugs(2nd offense); Improper driving on laned road; improper turn; Fail to yield at stop/yield sign; no proof of insurance; Arrested 06/01/2023" />
 <figcaption>James L Pratt, DUI-liquor/drugs(2nd offense); Improper driving on laned road; improper turn; Fail to yield at stop/yield sign; no proof of insurance; Arrested 06/01/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685631825069.jpeg" alt="Joshua Andrew Reyes, Failure to appear; Arrested 05/31/2023" />
 <figcaption>Joshua Andrew Reyes, Failure to appear; Arrested 05/31/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685631865195.jpeg" alt="Israyelle D Russell. Failure to appear; Arrested 05/31/2023" />
 <figcaption>Israyelle D Russell. Failure to appear; Arrested 05/31/2023</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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos June 1

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a teen on multiple allegations after an incident at a home in Manhattan.

Just after 7a.m. Wednesday, officers responded to the report of a domestic situation near the intersection of S. Manhattan Ave. and Fair Ln. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

First responders found an 18-year-old man had threatened to shoot a 43-year-old man known to him, prevented him from leaving a residence by standing in front of his car, and took the key from his car and refused to give it back. 

The suspect was also found to be in possession of opiate pills that had been reported stolen by him and drug paraphernalia. 

Officers arrested Darryl Klemick, 18, of Manhattan on requested charges of criminal threat, possession of stolen property, criminal restraint, criminal deprivation of property, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of an opiate, and two counts of theft. 

Klemick remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $61,000.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a teen on multiple allegations after an incident at a home in Manhattan.Just after 7a.m. Wednesday, officers responded to the report of a domestic situation near the intersection of S. Manhattan Ave. and Fair Ln. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.First responders found an 18-year-old man had threatened to shoot a 43-year-old man known to him, prevented him from leaving a residence by standing in front of his car, and took the key from his car and refused to give it back. The suspect was also found to be in possession of opiate pills that had been reported stolen by him and drug paraphernalia. Officers arrested Darryl Klemick, 18, of Manhattan on requested charges of criminal threat, possession of stolen property, criminal restraint, criminal deprivation of property, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of an opiate, and two counts of theft. Klemick remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $61,000.

Teen accused of criminal threat, theft at Manhattan home

RILEY COUNTY– Law enforcement authorities investigating two previously unreported knife attacks have arrested 45-year-old&nbsp; Jarman Morgan of Manhattan, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

The stabbings occurring in the summer months of 2020 and spring months of 2021 in Manhattan.

Morgan is reported to have stabbed the same 35-year-old man in the head and face area on these occasions. The victim did not receive medical care for either of the stabbings and is still alive, according to the RCPD.

Officers arrested Morgan Wednesday on a Riley County District Court warrant for two counts each of attempted first-degree murder and aggravated battery.

He has previous convictions for aggravated battery, aggravated burglary, theft, burglary, disorderly conduct, DUI, violations of the offender registration act and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. He has been listed as a registered Kansas drug offender since March of 2018.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685629295392.png" alt="Morgan-KBI offender Registry. He has previous convictions for aggravated battery, aggravated burglary, theft, burglary, disorderly conduct, DUI, violations of the offender registration act and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Morgan-KBI offender Registry. He has previous convictions for aggravated battery, aggravated burglary, theft, burglary, disorderly conduct, DUI, violations of the offender registration act and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY– Law enforcement authorities investigating two previously unreported knife attacks have arrested 45-year-old&nbsp; Jarman Morgan of Manhattan, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.The stabbings occurring in the summer months of 2020 and spring months of 2021 in Manhattan.Morgan is reported to have stabbed the same 35-year-old man in the head and face area on these occasions. The victim did not receive medical care for either of the stabbings and is still alive, according to the RCPD.Officers arrested Morgan Wednesday on a Riley County District Court warrant for two counts each of attempted first-degree murder and aggravated battery.He has previous convictions for aggravated battery, aggravated burglary, theft, burglary, disorderly conduct, DUI, violations of the offender registration act and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. He has been listed as a registered Kansas drug offender since March of 2018.

RCPD jails registered offender for alleged attempted murder

By BECKY GOFF&nbsp; JC Post

JUNCTION CITY - The Geary Community Farmers Market is held on&nbsp; &nbsp;Thursdays May through October from 4:00-7:00 p.m.

The Farmers Market is located in the JC Naz Church parking lot at 1025 South Washington Street.

Thursday, June 1st is "Kids Day" at the Market and community members are invited to visit the information booth for family friendly games, educational activities, prizes and fresh foods from local farmers.

More details on the Geary Community Farmers Market <a href="https://www.livewellgearycounty.org/farmers-market">can be found here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685570037172.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY GOFF&nbsp; JC PostJUNCTION CITY - The Geary Community Farmers Market is held on&nbsp; &nbsp;Thursdays May through October from 4:00-7:00 p.m.The Farmers Market is located in the JC Naz Church parking lot at 1025 South Washington Street.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d5442.3927870452135!2d-96.8296224012693!3d39.0090077105353!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bc4933a3a20351%3A0xe8f17aa84dc38db0!2s1025%20S%20Washington%20St%2C%20Junction%20City%2C%20KS%2066441!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1685570241135!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>Thursday, June 1st is "Kids Day" at the Market and community members are invited to visit the information booth for family friendly games, educational activities, prizes and fresh foods from local farmers.More details on the Geary Community Farmers Market <a href="https://www.livewellgearycounty.org/farmers-market">can be found here</a>.

Geary Community Farmers Market 1st Thursday "Kid's Day"

Representative Jake LaTurner’s office Washington, D.C.&nbsp;– Today, Congressman Jake LaTurner (KS-02) voted in favor of H.R. 3746,&nbsp;the<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001CPdLgJd6Kp8BLrJjPK2elZSrnbtAfNBbGGpt_hFGJtDRojUm2F6W8fu8SoqpchT9lk8amcoW7a0OCqm9jaS2513nPdcaJbhWS2EP9sWLVYjaUFtoRXWqG--lUT3Uw0DJWzbtAFavByVh_g1xtHKn4ns2CRrEzDzqLHOAkUZzBS25gWqF5vmkHNOWbxoU-mc3yxub6v78NUPP1FpB_xZFX0JeHc1_gVoRe5ucvGvk0Dk=&amp;c=D3g8R78XWQJgEduUgn3Eg61U8eFhVr4ZK00pYnO5fLFXf70Dvr3YvA==&amp;ch=iyxKmgrVKhQ7zdlPDf3B__Xkz2MdiF7hxm-YF0AziZ3FMo44PlkWjw==" target="_blank">&nbsp;Fiscal Responsibility Act</a>—the Biden-McCarthy debt limit "Defaulting on our nation's debt would result in a global financial crisis—crippling 401ks and triggering disastrous implications for families across Kansas,"LaTurner said. "This debt limit package cuts wasteful federal spending by $2.1 trillion, unleashes the American economy, and blocks President Biden's demands for higher taxes—all while protecting seniors and veterans. I don't agree with everything in this bill, but in divided government, we can't let the perfect be the enemy of the good."

In addition to raising the debt limit to responsibly avoid default, the Fiscal Responsibility Act:

Reduces&nbsp;the deficit by $2.1 trillion.

Claws back unspent COVID slush funds.&nbsp; Strengthens&nbsp;work requirements for welfare.&nbsp; Reforms&nbsp;NEPA so America can build better than ever.&nbsp; Blocks $5 trillion in new tax proposals from President Biden.&nbsp; Eliminates $1.8 billion that would be wasted on hiring Biden's new army of IRS agents&nbsp;

<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001CPdLgJd6Kp8BLrJjPK2elZSrnbtAfNBbGGpt_hFGJtDRojUm2F6W8fu8SoqpchT957lJ4bC3LFbfLEGGgNuTa6W4aQKbu28Ewz8DF1FKSzPLYOr7SOcdXQvql3a7HymNRjqXXIIVP_YqCXsZqm023O2KEh2j1QbTOeZrq9C7_R42rXuabTjDgbnwvg70_mLqofCj1FCLTJZzi4znTAwVqD8I6bHuEYt4&amp;c=D3g8R78XWQJgEduUgn3Eg61U8eFhVr4ZK00pYnO5fLFXf70Dvr3YvA==&amp;ch=iyxKmgrVKhQ7zdlPDf3B__Xkz2MdiF7hxm-YF0AziZ3FMo44PlkWjw==" target="_blank">Click here</a>&nbsp;for more information on the Fiscal Responsibility Act.&nbsp;

Representative Jake LaTurner’s office Washington, D.C.&nbsp;– Today, Congressman Jake LaTurner (KS-02) voted in favor of H.R. 3746,&nbsp;the<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001CPdLgJd6Kp8BLrJjPK2elZSrnbtAfNBbGGpt_hFGJtDRojUm2F6W8fu8SoqpchT9lk8amcoW7a0OCqm9jaS2513nPdcaJbhWS2EP9sWLVYjaUFtoRXWqG--lUT3Uw0DJWzbtAFavByVh_g1xtHKn4ns2CRrEzDzqLHOAkUZzBS25gWqF5vmkHNOWbxoU-mc3yxub6v78NUPP1FpB_xZFX0JeHc1_gVoRe5ucvGvk0Dk=&amp;c=D3g8R78XWQJgEduUgn3Eg61U8eFhVr4ZK00pYnO5fLFXf70Dvr3YvA==&amp;ch=iyxKmgrVKhQ7zdlPDf3B__Xkz2MdiF7hxm-YF0AziZ3FMo44PlkWjw==" target="_blank">&nbsp;Fiscal Responsibility Act</a>—the Biden-McCarthy debt limit "Defaulting on our nation's debt would result in a global financial crisis—crippling 401ks and triggering disastrous implications for families across Kansas,"LaTurner said. "This debt limit package cuts wasteful federal spending by $2.1 trillion, unleashes the American economy, and blocks President Biden's demands for higher taxes—all while protecting seniors and veterans. I don't agree with everything in this bill, but in divided government, we can't let the perfect be the enemy of the good." In addition to raising the debt limit to responsibly avoid default, the Fiscal Responsibility Act: Reduces&nbsp;the deficit by $2.1 trillion.Claws back unspent COVID slush funds.&nbsp; Strengthens&nbsp;work requirements for welfare.&nbsp; Reforms&nbsp;NEPA so America can build better than ever.&nbsp; Blocks $5 trillion in new tax proposals from President Biden.&nbsp; Eliminates $1.8 billion that would be wasted on hiring Biden's new army of IRS agents&nbsp; <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001CPdLgJd6Kp8BLrJjPK2elZSrnbtAfNBbGGpt_hFGJtDRojUm2F6W8fu8SoqpchT957lJ4bC3LFbfLEGGgNuTa6W4aQKbu28Ewz8DF1FKSzPLYOr7SOcdXQvql3a7HymNRjqXXIIVP_YqCXsZqm023O2KEh2j1QbTOeZrq9C7_R42rXuabTjDgbnwvg70_mLqofCj1FCLTJZzi4znTAwVqD8I6bHuEYt4&amp;c=D3g8R78XWQJgEduUgn3Eg61U8eFhVr4ZK00pYnO5fLFXf70Dvr3YvA==&amp;ch=iyxKmgrVKhQ7zdlPDf3B__Xkz2MdiF7hxm-YF0AziZ3FMo44PlkWjw==" target="_blank">Click here</a>&nbsp;for more information on the Fiscal Responsibility Act.&nbsp;

LaTurner votes in favor of debt limit deal

DICKINSON COUNTY —After over a one month investigation into the distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl, the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit has made two arrests, according to Sheriff Jerry Davis.

Just after 3a.m. May 26, deputies assigned to the Drug Enforcement Unit conducted a traffic stop with a Buick Le Sabre in the 3400 Block of Kansas 15 Highway to execute a search warrant on the vehicle. Jordan Daniel Greene, 37, and Justyne Marie Hanson, 40, both of Abilene were taken into custody.

The Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of the Abilene Police Department, executed a search warrant at a residence in the 400 Block of NW 3rd Street in Abilene.&nbsp; Officers seized methamphetamine, fentanyl, and drug paraphernalia during the search of the vehicle and the residence.

Greene was booked into the Dickinson County Jail on requested charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute opioid, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, and no drug tax stamp.

Hanson was booked into the Dickinson County Jail on requested charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute opioid, possession of drug paraphernalia, and no drug tax stamp.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685566518739.png" alt="Greene-photo Dickinson Co." />
 <figcaption>Greene-photo Dickinson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —After over a one month investigation into the distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl, the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit has made two arrests, according to Sheriff Jerry Davis.Just after 3a.m. May 26, deputies assigned to the Drug Enforcement Unit conducted a traffic stop with a Buick Le Sabre in the 3400 Block of Kansas 15 Highway to execute a search warrant on the vehicle. Jordan Daniel Greene, 37, and Justyne Marie Hanson, 40, both of Abilene were taken into custody.The Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of the Abilene Police Department, executed a search warrant at a residence in the 400 Block of NW 3rd Street in Abilene.&nbsp; Officers seized methamphetamine, fentanyl, and drug paraphernalia during the search of the vehicle and the residence.Greene was booked into the Dickinson County Jail on requested charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute opioid, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, and no drug tax stamp.Hanson was booked into the Dickinson County Jail on requested charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute opioid, possession of drug paraphernalia, and no drug tax stamp.

2 accused of selling fentanyl, meth in Dickinson County

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685567840135.jpeg" alt="Zackery Scott Harper, Violate a protective order; Violate protection order; Condition of extended pre-trial orders; Arrested 05/30/2023" />
 <figcaption>Zackery Scott Harper, Violate a protective order; Violate protection order; Condition of extended pre-trial orders; Arrested 05/30/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685567970169.jpeg" alt="Hannah Brooke McKinley, Probation Violation; Arrested 05/31/2023" />
 <figcaption>Hannah Brooke McKinley, Probation Violation; Arrested 05/31/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685568068075.jpeg" alt="Shadale Marie Njau, Possession of controlled substance; unknown susbstance; Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Arrested 05/31/2023" />
 <figcaption>Shadale Marie Njau, Possession of controlled substance; unknown susbstance; Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Arrested 05/31/2023</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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos May 31

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post/JC Post

MANHATTAN - On Monday, the Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs Office held Memorial Day services at four state Veterans cemeteries across the state.

Governor Laura Kelly and Cpt Luke Admire with IACH each spoke about the importance of remembering those who died while serving the country.

The Vietnam Vets and Legacy Vets Motorcycle clubs presented a check for $3,000 to the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery.

In 1999, the Kansas Senate Bill 19 was signed into law, authorizing the construction of four state-owned Veterans cemeteries.&nbsp;

These cemeteries were funded by the Department of Veterans Affairs Federal Cemetery Grants Program.

In 2002, Fort Dodge become the first state-owned Veterans cemetery and in 2009, the Fort Riley/Manhattan cemetery was the final Veterans cemetery to open. The other two cemeteries are located in WaKeeney and Winfield.&nbsp;

More than 4,500 eligible Veterans and their family members have been interred in the four Veterans cemeteries since they opened.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post/JC Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685456100962.jpeg" alt="2023 KS Veterans Cemetery Fort Riley/Manhattan, photo by Becky Goff" />
 <figcaption>2023 KS Veterans Cemetery Fort Riley/Manhattan, photo by Becky Goff</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN - On Monday, the Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs Office held Memorial Day services at four state Veterans cemeteries across the state.Governor Laura Kelly and Cpt Luke Admire with IACH each spoke about the importance of remembering those who died while serving the country.<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/zhThhAdj-60zMcgvZ.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Governor Kelly's Remarks" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>The Vietnam Vets and Legacy Vets Motorcycle clubs presented a check for $3,000 to the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery.<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/KnGcMvTS-60zMcgvZ.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Check Presentation" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>In 1999, the Kansas Senate Bill 19 was signed into law, authorizing the construction of four state-owned Veterans cemeteries.&nbsp;These cemeteries were funded by the Department of Veterans Affairs Federal Cemetery Grants Program.In 2002, Fort Dodge become the first state-owned Veterans cemetery and in 2009, the Fort Riley/Manhattan cemetery was the final Veterans cemetery to open. The other two cemeteries are located in WaKeeney and Winfield.&nbsp;More than 4,500 eligible Veterans and their family members have been interred in the four Veterans cemeteries since they opened.

🎥: Fallen soldiers honored at Kansas Veterans cemetery on Memorial Day

By&nbsp;Beth Grimmett, Meritrust Creative Brand Manager

Meritrust Credit Union is pleased to announce four recipients of the 2023 Meritrust Member Scholarship Program. The winners include both part-time and full-time students of the 2023-2024 school year. One winner was selected from each of the following schools: Wichita State University, University of Kansas and Kansas State University. The fourth scholarship was open to any other Kansas-accredited university or college student.

Meritrust believes in the power of education. “The experience gained through these post-secondary college programs serves as a foundation for the years of learning ahead once these students begin their career,” says James Nastars, President/CEO of Meritrust. “We are pleased to support these members’ education goals and wish them all the best in their future studies.”

Kaitlyn Scott-Welch currently is a sophomore studying psychology and pre-nursing. Meritrust asked Scott-Welch to explain what receiving this scholarship means to her and she said, "I would like to say thank you for granting me this scholarship that I am very appreciative for. With the help of this scholarship, I can continue to work on my future plans of becoming a nurse practitioner and helping those in my community."&nbsp;

Grayson Anderson is an incoming freshman that plans on studying Business Finance. He was asked by Meritrust for feedback on how this scholarship will benefit him and he said, "Thank you very much! This scholarship will be used towards my education at the University of Kansas where I will be studying finance. This scholarship means a lot to me for two reasons. One, I have banked at Meritrust for about six years now and have been treated with the utmost customer service, and two, I plan on getting a degree that allows me to help people achieve their financial goals the same way Meritrust does."

Hazrat Azghary is currently a Junior studying health science. Azghary told Meritrust, "Being awarded this scholarship would offer me financial assistance for my education, alleviating the stress of student loans. The recognition of my academic accomplishments and potential that comes with this scholarship would provide a sense of encouragement and inspire me to work even harder toward my goals. Additionally, it would give me the opportunity to better serve my community in the future. Thank you Meritrust for always supporting and focusing on improving the lives of the Wichita community."&nbsp;

Joseph Dewey is a Junior looking to get his associates in IT help desk and cybersecurity. Dewey said, "Thanks for this scholarship it will help me complete my studies a WSU Tech. I’m studying for an associate’s in IT help desk and cybersecurity. Once I graduate I’ll be able to work with a cybersecurity firm. I’ve always loved working with computers since I was younger and wanted to have an IT job when I grew up, being able to work in Cybersecurity is my dream. Thanks for making it possible!"

Meritrust Credit Union has been helping its members do more with their money since 1935. Meritrust is headquartered in Wichita, Kansas, with branches also located in Andover, Derby, Lawrence and Manhattan, Kansas. It’s easy to join Meritrust, and membership is open to almost anyone. With a mission of improving the lives of members and the communities it serves, Meritrust offers consumers and businesses the products, services, tools and education they need to achieve their financial well-being goals with confidence. The Metritrust Credit Union branch location in Manhattan, KS is located at&nbsp; 104 McCall Rd. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.meritrustcu.org/home/home">meritrustcu.org</a>. Federally insured by NCUA.

Photos:&nbsp; Compliments of Meritrust Credit Union

By&nbsp;Beth Grimmett, Meritrust Creative Brand ManagerMeritrust Credit Union is pleased to announce four recipients of the 2023 Meritrust Member Scholarship Program. The winners include both part-time and full-time students of the 2023-2024 school year. One winner was selected from each of the following schools: Wichita State University, University of Kansas and Kansas State University. The fourth scholarship was open to any other Kansas-accredited university or college student.Meritrust believes in the power of education. “The experience gained through these post-secondary college programs serves as a foundation for the years of learning ahead once these students begin their career,” says James Nastars, President/CEO of Meritrust. “We are pleased to support these members’ education goals and wish them all the best in their future studies.”Meet the four scholarship recipients!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685557322556.jpeg" alt="Kaitlyn Scott-Welch, Kansas State University" />
 <figcaption>Kaitlyn Scott-Welch, Kansas State University</figcaption>
 </figure>Kaitlyn Scott-Welch currently is a sophomore studying psychology and pre-nursing. Meritrust asked Scott-Welch to explain what receiving this scholarship means to her and she said, "I would like to say thank you for granting me this scholarship that I am very appreciative for. With the help of this scholarship, I can continue to work on my future plans of becoming a nurse practitioner and helping those in my community."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685557441593.jpeg" alt="Grayson Anderson, University of Kansas:" />
 <figcaption>Grayson Anderson, University of Kansas:</figcaption>
 </figure>Grayson Anderson is an incoming freshman that plans on studying Business Finance. He was asked by Meritrust for feedback on how this scholarship will benefit him and he said, "Thank you very much! This scholarship will be used towards my education at the University of Kansas where I will be studying finance. This scholarship means a lot to me for two reasons. One, I have banked at Meritrust for about six years now and have been treated with the utmost customer service, and two, I plan on getting a degree that allows me to help people achieve their financial goals the same way Meritrust does."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685557498506.jpeg" alt="Hazrat Azghary, Wichita State University&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Hazrat Azghary, Wichita State University&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Hazrat Azghary is currently a Junior studying health science. Azghary told Meritrust, "Being awarded this scholarship would offer me financial assistance for my education, alleviating the stress of student loans. The recognition of my academic accomplishments and potential that comes with this scholarship would provide a sense of encouragement and inspire me to work even harder toward my goals. Additionally, it would give me the opportunity to better serve my community in the future. Thank you Meritrust for always supporting and focusing on improving the lives of the Wichita community."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685557550125.png" alt="Joseph Dewey, WSU Tech:" />
 <figcaption>Joseph Dewey, WSU Tech:</figcaption>
 </figure>Joseph Dewey is a Junior looking to get his associates in IT help desk and cybersecurity. Dewey said, "Thanks for this scholarship it will help me complete my studies a WSU Tech. I’m studying for an associate’s in IT help desk and cybersecurity. Once I graduate I’ll be able to work with a cybersecurity firm. I’ve always loved working with computers since I was younger and wanted to have an IT job when I grew up, being able to work in Cybersecurity is my dream. Thanks for making it possible!"About Meritrust:Meritrust Credit Union has been helping its members do more with their money since 1935. Meritrust is headquartered in Wichita, Kansas, with branches also located in Andover, Derby, Lawrence and Manhattan, Kansas. It’s easy to join Meritrust, and membership is open to almost anyone. With a mission of improving the lives of members and the communities it serves, Meritrust offers consumers and businesses the products, services, tools and education they need to achieve their financial well-being goals with confidence. The Metritrust Credit Union branch location in Manhattan, KS is located at&nbsp; 104 McCall Rd. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.meritrustcu.org/home/home">meritrustcu.org</a>. Federally insured by NCUA.Photos:&nbsp; Compliments of Meritrust Credit Union

Meritrust announces four recipients for the 2023 Meritrust Member Scholarship

Doug Vogelsang shared some of his experiences working with bees at the JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s “Celebration of Optimism” on May 31 at the Hampton Inn in Junction City.

He stated that there are “three types of bees. They include the Queen, drones, and worker bees. Within the worker bees there are scouts, nurses, morticians, and others. Bees have three simple eyes, four wings and one stinger. After a bee uses its stinger to protect the Queen, the hive or itself, the bee dies. Queen bees live for three to five years and do not have stingers. A typical hive will have 40,000 to 60,000 bees in a mature hive.

Mr. Vogelsang also told club members that “one-third of our food comes from pollination, which is a major function of bees. A worker bee will make a fraction of a teaspoon of honey during its lifetime.

One gallon of honey weighs about eleven pounds. Honey is usually harvested at the end of July or in August. Bees communicate through odors, so when a beekeeper wants to interrupt their communication, the beekeeper uses smoke or sprays a light mist of sugar syrup at or near the bees todistract them so the honey can be harvested. Raw honey, which is found locally, may be used to counterallergies. Honeybee soap can be used for some skin rashes or irritations.”

Doug has been a beekeeper for 40 years. When honey is available to him, he sells bottles of it at the Farmer’s Market in the JC Naz parking lot on Thursdays. However, he stated “ I may not have enough to sell this year.” 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685554639722.jpeg" alt="Doug Vogelsang" />
 <figcaption>Doug Vogelsang</figcaption>
 </figure>Doug Vogelsang shared some of his experiences working with bees at the JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s “Celebration of Optimism” on May 31 at the Hampton Inn in Junction City.He stated that there are “three types of bees. They include the Queen, drones, and worker bees. Within the worker bees there are scouts, nurses, morticians, and others. Bees have three simple eyes, four wings and one stinger. After a bee uses its stinger to protect the Queen, the hive or itself, the bee dies. Queen bees live for three to five years and do not have stingers. A typical hive will have 40,000 to 60,000 bees in a mature hive.Mr. Vogelsang also told club members that “one-third of our food comes from pollination, which is a major function of bees. A worker bee will make a fraction of a teaspoon of honey during its lifetime.One gallon of honey weighs about eleven pounds. Honey is usually harvested at the end of July or in August. Bees communicate through odors, so when a beekeeper wants to interrupt their communication, the beekeeper uses smoke or sprays a light mist of sugar syrup at or near the bees todistract them so the honey can be harvested. Raw honey, which is found locally, may be used to counterallergies. Honeybee soap can be used for some skin rashes or irritations.”Doug has been a beekeeper for 40 years. When honey is available to him, he sells bottles of it at the Farmer’s Market in the JC Naz parking lot on Thursdays. However, he stated “ I may not have enough to sell this year.”

Optimist Club guest speaker a Beekeeper

By PETER SMITH and HOLLY MEYER, Associated Press

The Rev. Bill Farmer reached the point where he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/global-methodist-church-breakaway-lgbt-f599979835addfd354856ff5b2024989">couldn’t stay in the United Methodist Church</a>&nbsp;anymore — but the congregation he attended was staying.

Michael Hahn always wanted to stay in the UMC — but his congregation was leaving it.

Each has found new church homes, and they’re not alone.

Thousands of United Methodist congregations have been voting on whether to stay or quit one of the nation’s largest denominations amid&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-gay-rights-f3fc3ec9e1f39501495d227d5a0963f8">intractable debates</a>&nbsp;over theology and the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-gay-rights-marriage-1ed8df15ecbb36700cbe638b29dc6617">role of LGBTQ people</a>. There are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lifestyle-religion-marriage-b6a4ec4a28ce2674932573ba6c850f4a">stark differences</a>&nbsp;over recognizing same-sex marriage and ordaining LGBTQ clergy.

But the dividing line isn’t just running between congregations. It’s running right through the pews of individual churches, separating people who had long worshipped together.

Those who come up on the short end of a disaffiliation vote face the dilemma of whether to stay or go.

According to the Great Plains conference agenda packet, 103 churches' disassociation are set to be approved by resolution Wednesday.

Kansas churches that have voted to leave the denomination include:

Agra, Arnold, Bazine, Bellevue, Blue Mound, Brewster, Burdett, Burlington, Caney, Cawker City, Cherryvale, Copeland, Deerfield, Denton, Dwight, Elkhart, Ellsworth, Fulton, Glasco, Glen Elder, Grainfield, Green, Greensburg, Gypsum, Healy, Holcomb, Howard, Hugoton, Ionia, Iuka, Jetmore, Kanopolis, Kanorado, Kirwin, Kismet, Lancaster, Lenora, Leonardville, Liberty, Long Island, Lucas, Luray, Lydia, Madison, Marysville, Medicine Lodge, Miltonvale, Natoma, Ness City, Norwich, Offerle, Oketo, Oneida, Oxford, Peru, Plains, Quinter, Randolph, Ransom, Republic, Richfield, Rolla, Roeland Park, Satanta, Sawyer, Sharon Springs, Stockton, Utica, Virgil, Wakefield and Webber.

The splintering — often grievous and tense — has spurred new initiatives to provide havens for the unmoored. Some United Methodist regional conferences have begun designating “Lighthouse” congregations — ones that actively welcome people who wanted to stay United Methodist but whose former churches voted to leave. Other conferences use different names, such as “Beacon” or “Oasis,” but the idea is the same.

"The pain is real, and there is a lot of grief and a lot of heartache over the split in the United Methodist Church,” said the Rev. Lynda Ferguson, the great-grandchild of a circuit-riding Methodist pastor.

Her North Carolina church, First United Methodist Asheboro, became a Lighthouse congregation. That assures newcomers that it’s committed to staying United Methodist, so they won’t have to worry about another disaffiliation vote. More than 400 congregations have disaffiliated in North Carolina.

Ferguson said she can personally relate to those from departing congregations. Her childhood church — the one that shaped her faith and where at age 12 she felt the call to ministry — also voted to leave.

"Part of the Lighthouse mission is to let people know the United Methodist Church is still here and still welcoming,” said the Rev. Ed McKinney, pastor of Stokesdale United Methodist Church in Stokesdale, North Carolina, which also became a Lighthouse congregation.

Michael Hahn and his family are among a group of newcomers who have begun participating in Stokesdale after their previous congregations left the denomination.

Hahn, whose family has been Methodist for generations, said he couldn’t imagine leaving the denomination, which he values for blending faith and rationality: “It’s a place where I don’t have to check my logic and reason at the door and blindly accept things.”

Hahn said he, his wife and daughters have found “a very warm and welcoming environment” in the Stokesdale congregation, with people saying, "We’re glad to have you here, we want to walk through this period with you.”

Many of the departing churches are joining the conservative Global Methodist Church, created last year. Others are going independent or joining different denominations.

While the Global Methodist Church doesn’t have a program like the Lighthouse initiative, it has begun launching or adopting congregations that can become homes for those who want to leave the United Methodist Church but whose congregations are staying.

That was the case with the founders of Grace Methodist Church. They launched the church in January in Homosassa, Florida, after their previous congregation voted to stay in the UMC. The new church immediately affiliated with the Global Methodist Church.

Grace Methodist has been renting a former lodge hall for its services and has already started Bible studies and community outreaches, while also working to attract attendees from their neighborhood.

“We’re not there just to go to church on Sunday for an hour; we’re there to help the community," said member Neil Kline. The enthusiasm of participants is evident, he said: “They can’t wait to get to church, and they don’t want to leave.”

Farmer came out of retirement to serve as the church's pastor.

The group's previous congregation “was a good church,” Farmer said, and he wished it well. But “my struggle was with the United Methodist structure, what’s going on in the United States, particularly."

The ongoing schism has been long in the making.

The United Methodist Church — with about 6.5 million members in the United States and at least that many abroad — has long debated its bans on same-sex marriages and the ordination of openly LGBTQ clergy.

The denomination has repeatedly upheld the bans, largely through the voting strength of the growing, more conservative churches abroad. But conservatives chose to form a new denomination amid growing defiance of the bans in U.S. churches.

More than 3,500 U.S. congregations have received their local conferences’ permission to disaffiliate from the UMC, according to United Methodist News Service. With conference season underway, disaffiliations are closing in on 4,000 and could rise even more by the end of the year, said the Rev. Jay Therrell, president of the Wesleyan Covenant Association, a conservative group advocating for departing congregations.

That’s a fraction of the United Methodists’ 30,000 U.S. churches, though several of the departing congregations are among the largest in their states.

Therrell said he had no problem with the Lighthouse concept but renewed his call to allow churches to disaffiliate on reasonable terms.

“I want everyone to be in the theological home that is the best fit,” Therrell said. “Certainly, the United Methodist Church is welcome to try to create churches to do that. I hope they would respect traditionalists and allow us to get to the place where we need to be.”

In the Arkansas Conference, more than 100 churches — out of roughly 600 total — have received permission to disaffiliate. That leaves parts of the state with few or no remaining United Methodist congregations, said the Rev. Michael Roberts, director of the conference’s new Restart Initiative, which is hoping to enlist congregations to be Beacon churches. Such churches would invite self-described “exiles, refugees, nomads” to worship services, help them start home groups or develop other ways to keep them connected.

“We’re just really simply inviting churches to consider how they can provide this kind of hospitality,” Roberts said. “I love the word ‘hospitality’ because the word ‘hospital’ comes from that word. It is about providing healing."

In the Western Pennsylvania Conference, 17 congregations officially became Lighthouse congregations as of May 1.

About a third of the estimated 800 churches in the Western Pennsylvania Conference — a sprawling 23-county region — are seeking to have their disaffiliations approved at the conference's June annual meeting, according to Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi.

“There have been very few votes where it was unanimous,” she said. For those on the short end of those votes — sometimes described as pilgrims — the Lighthouse congregations offer places where they can join or just find temporary harbor until they figure out next steps.

But Lighthouse churches aren’t places to settle into old routines, she said.

“This has been an opportunity to really think about folks who are unchurched, and how this nucleus of people looking for a church home might help us discern needs in the community and create faith communities” to reach people in new ways.

Added B.T. Gilligan, senior pastor at Nixon United Methodist Church, a Lighthouse congregation in Butler, Pennsylvania: “I really hope this extends and goes far beyond the disaffiliation, but allows for people who have been hurt by churches for all different kinds of reasons.”

Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the AP’s&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/ap-twir">collaboration</a>&nbsp;with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.

By PETER SMITH and HOLLY MEYER, Associated Press The Rev. Bill Farmer reached the point where he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/global-methodist-church-breakaway-lgbt-f599979835addfd354856ff5b2024989">couldn’t stay in the United Methodist Church</a>&nbsp;anymore — but the congregation he attended was staying.Michael Hahn always wanted to stay in the UMC — but his congregation was leaving it.Each has found new church homes, and they’re not alone.Thousands of United Methodist congregations have been voting on whether to stay or quit one of the nation’s largest denominations amid&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-gay-rights-f3fc3ec9e1f39501495d227d5a0963f8">intractable debates</a>&nbsp;over theology and the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-gay-rights-marriage-1ed8df15ecbb36700cbe638b29dc6617">role of LGBTQ people</a>. There are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lifestyle-religion-marriage-b6a4ec4a28ce2674932573ba6c850f4a">stark differences</a>&nbsp;over recognizing same-sex marriage and ordaining LGBTQ clergy.But the dividing line isn’t just running between congregations. It’s running right through the pews of individual churches, separating people who had long worshipped together.Those who come up on the short end of a disaffiliation vote face the dilemma of whether to stay or go.<h2>Churches leaving</h2>According to the Great Plains conference agenda packet, 103 churches' disassociation are set to be approved by resolution Wednesday.Kansas churches that have voted to leave the denomination include:Agra, Arnold, Bazine, Bellevue, Blue Mound, Brewster, Burdett, Burlington, Caney, Cawker City, Cherryvale, Copeland, Deerfield, Denton, Dwight, Elkhart, Ellsworth, Fulton, Glasco, Glen Elder, Grainfield, Green, Greensburg, Gypsum, Healy, Holcomb, Howard, Hugoton, Ionia, Iuka, Jetmore, Kanopolis, Kanorado, Kirwin, Kismet, Lancaster, Lenora, Leonardville, Liberty, Long Island, Lucas, Luray, Lydia, Madison, Marysville, Medicine Lodge, Miltonvale, Natoma, Ness City, Norwich, Offerle, Oketo, Oneida, Oxford, Peru, Plains, Quinter, Randolph, Ransom, Republic, Richfield, Rolla, Roeland Park, Satanta, Sawyer, Sharon Springs, Stockton, Utica, Virgil, Wakefield and Webber.The splintering — often grievous and tense — has spurred new initiatives to provide havens for the unmoored. Some United Methodist regional conferences have begun designating “Lighthouse” congregations — ones that actively welcome people who wanted to stay United Methodist but whose former churches voted to leave. Other conferences use different names, such as “Beacon” or “Oasis,” but the idea is the same."The pain is real, and there is a lot of grief and a lot of heartache over the split in the United Methodist Church,” said the Rev. Lynda Ferguson, the great-grandchild of a circuit-riding Methodist pastor.Her North Carolina church, First United Methodist Asheboro, became a Lighthouse congregation. That assures newcomers that it’s committed to staying United Methodist, so they won’t have to worry about another disaffiliation vote. More than 400 congregations have disaffiliated in North Carolina.Ferguson said she can personally relate to those from departing congregations. Her childhood church — the one that shaped her faith and where at age 12 she felt the call to ministry — also voted to leave."Part of the Lighthouse mission is to let people know the United Methodist Church is still here and still welcoming,” said the Rev. Ed McKinney, pastor of Stokesdale United Methodist Church in Stokesdale, North Carolina, which also became a Lighthouse congregation.Michael Hahn and his family are among a group of newcomers who have begun participating in Stokesdale after their previous congregations left the denomination.Hahn, whose family has been Methodist for generations, said he couldn’t imagine leaving the denomination, which he values for blending faith and rationality: “It’s a place where I don’t have to check my logic and reason at the door and blindly accept things.”Hahn said he, his wife and daughters have found “a very warm and welcoming environment” in the Stokesdale congregation, with people saying, "We’re glad to have you here, we want to walk through this period with you.”Many of the departing churches are joining the conservative Global Methodist Church, created last year. Others are going independent or joining different denominations.While the Global Methodist Church doesn’t have a program like the Lighthouse initiative, it has begun launching or adopting congregations that can become homes for those who want to leave the United Methodist Church but whose congregations are staying.That was the case with the founders of Grace Methodist Church. They launched the church in January in Homosassa, Florida, after their previous congregation voted to stay in the UMC. The new church immediately affiliated with the Global Methodist Church.Grace Methodist has been renting a former lodge hall for its services and has already started Bible studies and community outreaches, while also working to attract attendees from their neighborhood.“We’re not there just to go to church on Sunday for an hour; we’re there to help the community," said member Neil Kline. The enthusiasm of participants is evident, he said: “They can’t wait to get to church, and they don’t want to leave.”Farmer came out of retirement to serve as the church's pastor.The group's previous congregation “was a good church,” Farmer said, and he wished it well. But “my struggle was with the United Methodist structure, what’s going on in the United States, particularly."The ongoing schism has been long in the making.The United Methodist Church — with about 6.5 million members in the United States and at least that many abroad — has long debated its bans on same-sex marriages and the ordination of openly LGBTQ clergy.The denomination has repeatedly upheld the bans, largely through the voting strength of the growing, more conservative churches abroad. But conservatives chose to form a new denomination amid growing defiance of the bans in U.S. churches.More than 3,500 U.S. congregations have received their local conferences’ permission to disaffiliate from the UMC, according to United Methodist News Service. With conference season underway, disaffiliations are closing in on 4,000 and could rise even more by the end of the year, said the Rev. Jay Therrell, president of the Wesleyan Covenant Association, a conservative group advocating for departing congregations.That’s a fraction of the United Methodists’ 30,000 U.S. churches, though several of the departing congregations are among the largest in their states.Therrell said he had no problem with the Lighthouse concept but renewed his call to allow churches to disaffiliate on reasonable terms.“I want everyone to be in the theological home that is the best fit,” Therrell said. “Certainly, the United Methodist Church is welcome to try to create churches to do that. I hope they would respect traditionalists and allow us to get to the place where we need to be.”In the Arkansas Conference, more than 100 churches — out of roughly 600 total — have received permission to disaffiliate. That leaves parts of the state with few or no remaining United Methodist congregations, said the Rev. Michael Roberts, director of the conference’s new Restart Initiative, which is hoping to enlist congregations to be Beacon churches. Such churches would invite self-described “exiles, refugees, nomads” to worship services, help them start home groups or develop other ways to keep them connected.“We’re just really simply inviting churches to consider how they can provide this kind of hospitality,” Roberts said. “I love the word ‘hospitality’ because the word ‘hospital’ comes from that word. It is about providing healing."In the Western Pennsylvania Conference, 17 congregations officially became Lighthouse congregations as of May 1.About a third of the estimated 800 churches in the Western Pennsylvania Conference — a sprawling 23-county region — are seeking to have their disaffiliations approved at the conference's June annual meeting, according to Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi.“There have been very few votes where it was unanimous,” she said. For those on the short end of those votes — sometimes described as pilgrims — the Lighthouse congregations offer places where they can join or just find temporary harbor until they figure out next steps.But Lighthouse churches aren’t places to settle into old routines, she said.“This has been an opportunity to really think about folks who are unchurched, and how this nucleus of people looking for a church home might help us discern needs in the community and create faith communities” to reach people in new ways.Added B.T. Gilligan, senior pastor at Nixon United Methodist Church, a Lighthouse congregation in Butler, Pennsylvania: “I really hope this extends and goes far beyond the disaffiliation, but allows for people who have been hurt by churches for all different kinds of reasons.”___Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the AP’s&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/ap-twir">collaboration</a>&nbsp;with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.

Kansas Methodist churches vote to split from denomination

HERINGTON — On Tuesday, Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann led the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the renaming of the Herington post office as the Captain Emil J. Kapaun Memorial Post Office Building. 

Mann sponsored the legislation to rename the Herington Post Office in honor of Father Kapaun.&nbsp;

On the day after Memorial Day,&nbsp; Rep. Mann gathered with Kansans to celebrate the life and legacy of Father Kapaun, a man of God who showed incredible bravery and selflessness in his service. My prayers are with the Kapaun family as we celebrate Father Kapaun’s life and sacrificial love. May the Captain Emil J. Kapaun Post Office Building in Herington serve as a reminder of that great love and as an inspiration to do likewise for generations to come.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685551592480.png" alt="Pictured above, left to right: Mardee Lincoln, Post Master of Herington Post Office; Rep. Mann; Ray Kapaun, nephew of Fr. Emil Kapaun; Dan McDonald, Dept. of Kansas 4th District Commander for the VFW-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Pictured above, left to right: Mardee Lincoln, Post Master of Herington Post Office; Rep. Mann; Ray Kapaun, nephew of Fr. Emil Kapaun; Dan McDonald, Dept. of Kansas 4th District Commander for the VFW-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>HERINGTON — On Tuesday, Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann led the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the renaming of the Herington post office as the Captain Emil J. Kapaun Memorial Post Office Building. Mann sponsored the legislation to rename the Herington Post Office in honor of Father Kapaun.&nbsp;On the day after Memorial Day,&nbsp; Rep. Mann gathered with Kansans to celebrate the life and legacy of Father Kapaun, a man of God who showed incredible bravery and selflessness in his service. My prayers are with the Kapaun family as we celebrate Father Kapaun’s life and sacrificial love. May the Captain Emil J. Kapaun Post Office Building in Herington serve as a reminder of that great love and as an inspiration to do likewise for generations to come.

Herington Post Office renamed in honor of Father Emil Kapaun

Prepared by Courtney Gilbert, Geary County Clerk

FILING DEADLINE IS JUNE 1ST, 2023 AT NOON USD 475 – SCHOOL BOARD

City Council – Grandview Plaza MARVIN EDISON

Junction City – City Commission PAT LANDES

Prepared by Courtney Gilbert, Geary County ClerkFILING DEADLINE IS JUNE 1ST, 2023 AT NOON USD 475 – SCHOOL BOARDANWAR K. KHOURY BRYAN BLISS RONALD JOHNSON&nbsp;KRISTY HADENJIM SCHMIDTCity Council – Grandview Plaza MARVIN EDISON Junction City – City Commission PAT LANDES MATTHEW BEA AL GORDON LORRAINE CENICEROS Milford&nbsp;–&nbsp;City CouncilGAYLE EDMISTONInformation pulled May 31, 2023

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