The National Weather has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch in effect until 6  p.m. today.&nbsp; &nbsp;Among Counties included in the Watch Area are:

Geary, Riley, Morris, Wabaunsee, Clay, Dickinson, Saline and Pottawatomie counties.

Severe thunderstorms are possible in the Watch Area capable of producing large hail, damaging wind and tornadic activity.

The National Weather has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch in effect until 6 p.m. today.&nbsp; &nbsp;Among Counties included in the Watch Area are:Geary, Riley, Morris, Wabaunsee, Clay, Dickinson, Saline and Pottawatomie counties.Severe thunderstorms are possible in the Watch Area capable of producing large hail, damaging wind and tornadic activity.

NWS issues Thunderstorm Watch

From the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program

The board of directors for the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program is pleased to announce the application period for the 2023-24 class offering will take place May 15-July 20.&nbsp;

“For the North Central Flint Hills area of Kansas to grow and prosper, leaders from all backgrounds and vocations are needed to tackle the challenges facing our region.&nbsp;&nbsp;The goal of the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program is to motivate traditional and non-traditional leaders by teaching leadership skills.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is done through information, dialogue, skill building and hands-on experiences, so our leaders of tomorrow are best prepared to strengthen and transform our communities,” says Jack Lindquist, Executive Director.&nbsp;

The annual program develops the leadership skills necessary to help the Flint Hills region become the best place in Kansas to live, work, and raise our children, according to the website.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sessions for the selected class members are held throughout the region with Orientation beginning at Rock Springs Ranch and Junction City in mid-September. The remaining seven sessions follow with graduation in February.&nbsp;

“Programming for the regional leadership training opportunity has grown and evolved since formation thirty years ago," stated board chair Sarah Keatley, Wamego.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“Not only do we have new training processes through the Kansas Leadership Center’s 21st&nbsp;Century Leadership Skills and Leadership Edge toolboxes, we also have an expanded footprint. More of our areas rural economic influence was successfully merged into the regional training this past year with the addition of Wabaunsee County. We now surface and train leaders that live or work within Geary, Riley, Pottawatomie, and Wabaunsee Counties,” concluded Keatley.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Potential candidates should visit the website to confirm dates for sessions will work and to get advance authorization from employers. &nbsp;The link on the program homepage&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fhrlp.org/" target="_blank">www.fhrlp.org</a>&nbsp;allows application online and includes a 1-3 minute introduction video to serve as a virtual interview submission.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683646452541.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the Flint Hills Regional Leadership ProgramThe board of directors for the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program is pleased to announce the application period for the 2023-24 class offering will take place May 15-July 20.&nbsp;“For the North Central Flint Hills area of Kansas to grow and prosper, leaders from all backgrounds and vocations are needed to tackle the challenges facing our region.&nbsp;&nbsp;The goal of the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program is to motivate traditional and non-traditional leaders by teaching leadership skills.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is done through information, dialogue, skill building and hands-on experiences, so our leaders of tomorrow are best prepared to strengthen and transform our communities,” says Jack Lindquist, Executive Director.&nbsp;The annual program develops the leadership skills necessary to help the Flint Hills region become the best place in Kansas to live, work, and raise our children, according to the website.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sessions for the selected class members are held throughout the region with Orientation beginning at Rock Springs Ranch and Junction City in mid-September. The remaining seven sessions follow with graduation in February.&nbsp;“Programming for the regional leadership training opportunity has grown and evolved since formation thirty years ago," stated board chair Sarah Keatley, Wamego.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“Not only do we have new training processes through the Kansas Leadership Center’s 21st&nbsp;Century Leadership Skills and Leadership Edge toolboxes, we also have an expanded footprint. More of our areas rural economic influence was successfully merged into the regional training this past year with the addition of Wabaunsee County. We now surface and train leaders that live or work within Geary, Riley, Pottawatomie, and Wabaunsee Counties,” concluded Keatley.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Potential candidates should visit the website to confirm dates for sessions will work and to get advance authorization from employers. &nbsp;The link on the program homepage&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fhrlp.org/" target="_blank">www.fhrlp.org</a>&nbsp;allows application online and includes a 1-3 minute introduction video to serve as a virtual interview submission.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Applications for the 2023-24 class of the FHRLP coming soon

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/2023/5/1683638982533.jpeg" alt="Eddie Lamont Glover, Outside warrant; Failure to appear; Arrested 05/08/2023" />
 <figcaption>Eddie Lamont Glover, Outside warrant; Failure to appear; Arrested 05/08/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683639051383.jpeg" alt="Tiara Lachey Manson Hairston, Exceeding the posted speed limit; Fail to yield to emergency vehicle; Fleeing and Eluding(B/A); Disorderly conduct; Resisting Arrest; Arrested 05/08/2023" />
 <figcaption>Tiara Lachey Manson Hairston, Exceeding the posted speed limit; Fail to yield to emergency vehicle; Fleeing and Eluding(B/A); Disorderly conduct; Resisting Arrest; Arrested 05/08/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683639151501.jpeg" alt="Deonte Tyrique Jones, Possessing or consumption of alcoholic liquor in public place - penalty; Arrested 05/08/2023" />
 <figcaption>Deonte Tyrique Jones, Possessing or consumption of alcoholic liquor in public place - penalty; Arrested 05/08/2023</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 9

JUNCTION CITY- Junction City High School is asking for the community's support this Thursday to help raise funds for the celebration after graduation, Project Graduation.&nbsp;

The fundraiser will be May 11 at Freddy's, 802 E Chestnut Street, from 5-9 p.m. As you order just say "I'm here for the fundraiser." Those who wish to can also show this post with the flyer attached as a way to give 15 percent of the cost of your meal to go towards the fundraiser.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683641623586.jpeg" alt="fundraiser flyer Project Graduation" />
 <figcaption>fundraiser flyer Project Graduation</figcaption>
 </figure>JUNCTION CITY- Junction City High School is asking for the community's support this Thursday to help raise funds for the celebration after graduation, Project Graduation.&nbsp;The fundraiser will be May 11 at Freddy's, 802 E Chestnut Street, from 5-9 p.m. As you order just say "I'm here for the fundraiser." Those who wish to can also show this post with the flyer attached as a way to give 15 percent of the cost of your meal to go towards the fundraiser.&nbsp;

Project Graduation fundraiser planned

Junction&nbsp; City's <a href="https://freedomfestjc.com/">Freedom Fest</a><a href="https://freedomfestjc.com/fundraisers/">&nbsp;</a>is hosting a "Balloons, Blues and BBQ" event this coming Saturday (May 13th) to raise money to support the 2023 Freedom Fest Independence Day Holiday weekend celebration this coming Summer in downtown Junction City Heritage Park.

The event this coming Saturday will be staged at the&nbsp; Freeman Field Airport at 18th and North Jackson Streets, Junction City and will feature tethered balloon rides for purchase (weather permitting), barbecue meals for purchase served by "Roll N' Smoke," and Blues music by nationally known performer Jonathon "Boogie" Long from New Orleans, LA.

It will not be Long's first visit to Junction City as he performed at the former "Blues and BBQ" Festival series of concert events staged in the early fall of the year in Heritage Park.

Admission to the "Balloons, Blues and BBQ will&nbsp; be $5 per person with children 9-years-old and younger free.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683569448885.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JC PostJunction&nbsp; City's <a href="https://freedomfestjc.com/">Freedom Fest</a><a href="https://freedomfestjc.com/fundraisers/">&nbsp;</a>is hosting a "Balloons, Blues and BBQ" event this coming Saturday (May 13th) to raise money to support the 2023 Freedom Fest Independence Day Holiday weekend celebration this coming Summer in downtown Junction City Heritage Park.The event this coming Saturday will be staged at the&nbsp; Freeman Field Airport at 18th and North Jackson Streets, Junction City and will feature tethered balloon rides for purchase (weather permitting), barbecue meals for purchase served by "Roll N' Smoke," and Blues music by nationally known performer Jonathon "Boogie" Long from New Orleans, LA.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683568701659.jpeg" alt="Jonathon "Boogie" Long" />
 <figcaption>Jonathon "Boogie" Long</figcaption>
 </figure>It will not be Long's first visit to Junction City as he performed at the former "Blues and BBQ" Festival series of concert events staged in the early fall of the year in Heritage Park.Admission to the "Balloons, Blues and BBQ will&nbsp; be $5 per person with children 9-years-old and younger free.

Balloons,  Blues and BBQ set for Saturday, May 13th

On Saturday, the annual Miss Milford Lake contest was held.

The&nbsp;2023 Miss Milford Lake is Ashlynn Brady from Liberal, KS! 

Runners-up are Wendy Adams of Almena, KS, Savannah Gray of Stockton, KS, Kinlea Reimler of Salina, KS, and Contessa Weishaupl of Minneapolis, KS.

People’s Choice is Wendy Adams from Almena, KS. 

Top Interview and Talent score were from Ashlynn Brady. 

Best Evening Gown goes to Contessa Weishaupl of Minneapolis, KS. 

Thank you to all the contestants, judges, volunteers and sponsors who made this event a success! Sundown Salute, Inc. Muddy Creek Flowers and Gifts Milford, Kansas Jerry Watson Photography

Entry fee for each contestant was$50 and events consisted of Talent, ten minute interview with judges, on-stage interview question and social impact statement along with Red Carpet/runway modeling.

Scholarships were awarded for crown winner, best talent, best dress and best interview. There was also a People’s Choice award based on a photograph of the contestants.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683557989026.jpeg" alt="submitted photo" />
 <figcaption>submitted photo</figcaption>
 </figure>On Saturday, the annual Miss Milford Lake contest was held.The&nbsp;2023 Miss Milford Lake is Ashlynn Brady from Liberal, KS! Runners-up are Wendy Adams of Almena, KS, Savannah Gray of Stockton, KS, Kinlea Reimler of Salina, KS, and Contessa Weishaupl of Minneapolis, KS.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683574042242.jpeg" alt="Miss Milford Lake" />
 <figcaption>Miss Milford Lake</figcaption>
 </figure>People’s Choice is Wendy Adams from Almena, KS. Top Interview and Talent score were from Ashlynn Brady. Best Evening Gown goes to Contessa Weishaupl of Minneapolis, KS. Thank you to all the contestants, judges, volunteers and sponsors who made this event a success! Sundown Salute, Inc. Muddy Creek Flowers and Gifts Milford, Kansas Jerry Watson PhotographyEntry fee for each contestant was$50 and events consisted of Talent, ten minute interview with judges, on-stage interview question and social impact statement along with Red Carpet/runway modeling.Scholarships were awarded for crown winner, best talent, best dress and best interview. There was also a People’s Choice award based on a photograph of the contestants.

2023 Miss Milford Lake named

DICKINSON COUNTY –&nbsp; On Monday, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Herington man on a warrant, according to a media release from the agency.

Russell L. Thomas, 61, of Herington, was arrested on requested charges that include three counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, and misdemeanor battery. 

The arrest occurred at 9:50 a.m. at 434 Union Road in Herington, Kansas, according to the KBI.&nbsp;Thomas is a middle school science teacher at Herington USD 487, <a href="https://www.heringtonschools.org/staff?search=Thomas">according to the district web site.</a>

Agents arrested Thomas in April for aggravated intimidation of a witness connected to the investigation. He was released after bond was posted.

Following Monday’s arrest, Thomas was booked into the Dickinson County Jail.&nbsp;

DICKINSON COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp; The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Herington man on Wednesday for allegedly intimidating a witness in a felony investigation, according to a media release from the KBI.

Shortly before 1 p.m. Wednesday, Russell L. Thomas, 61, of Herington, was arrested on a warrant for aggravated intimidation of a witness. This crime is alleged to have occurred on April 7. Thomas is a middle school science teacher at Herington USD 487, according to the district web site.

Thomas was booked into the Dickinson County Jail. Bond was set at $50,000. He is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681400869626.png" alt="Thomas-photo Dickinson Co." />
 <figcaption>Thomas-photo Dickinson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY –&nbsp; On Monday, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Herington man on a warrant, according to a media release from the agency.Russell L. Thomas, 61, of Herington, was arrested on requested charges that include three counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, and misdemeanor battery. The arrest occurred at 9:50 a.m. at 434 Union Road in Herington, Kansas, according to the KBI.&nbsp;Thomas is a middle school science teacher at Herington USD 487, <a href="https://www.heringtonschools.org/staff?search=Thomas">according to the district web site.</a>Agents arrested Thomas in April for aggravated intimidation of a witness connected to the investigation. He was released after bond was posted.Following Monday’s arrest, Thomas was booked into the Dickinson County Jail.&nbsp;-------------------DICKINSON COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp; The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Herington man on Wednesday for allegedly intimidating a witness in a felony investigation, according to a media release from the KBI.Shortly before 1 p.m. Wednesday, Russell L. Thomas, 61, of Herington, was arrested on a warrant for aggravated intimidation of a witness. This crime is alleged to have occurred on April 7. Thomas is a middle school science teacher at Herington USD 487, according to the district web site.Thomas was booked into the Dickinson County Jail. Bond was set at $50,000. He is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

Herington teacher now accused of child sex crime

ST. GEORGE - According to a release by the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office, on Thursday, May 4th, a narcotics search warrant was executed in the 11000 block of Glenwood Lane.&nbsp;

The search warrant stemmed from an investigation into illegal drug activity in the Pottawatomie County area.

Methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were among the items seized from the residence.

Pottawatomie County Sheriff's deputies arrested three individuals in relation to this search warrant.

Fifty-year-old Dustin Molden, of St. George was arrested for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. He is confined at the Pottawatomie County Jail on a $50,000 bond.

Thirty-three-year-old Jamie Berges of St. George was arrested for possession of&nbsp;methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia, along with an outside warrant for probation violation out of Riley County, Kansas. She is currently confined at the Pottawatomie County Jail on a $10,000 bond on the drug charges and a $5,000 bond on the Riley County warrant.

Twenty-two-year-old Randall Chilson of St. George was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and an outstanding warrant for sexual exploitation of a child out of Marshall County, Kansas. He is confined at the Pottawatomie County Jail on a $10,000 bond for the drug charges and a $100,000 bond on his Marshall County warrant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673640512536.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ST. GEORGE - According to a release by the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office, on Thursday, May 4th, a narcotics search warrant was executed in the 11000 block of Glenwood Lane.&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d6155.581863584343!2d-96.44672733177364!3d39.197762826955895!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bdd5b0eff2b6bb%3A0xcc0e0bdb4d097247!2s11000%20Glenwood%20Ln%2C%20St%20George%2C%20KS%2066535!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1683573060968!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>The search warrant stemmed from an investigation into illegal drug activity in the Pottawatomie County area.Methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were among the items seized from the residence.Pottawatomie County Sheriff's deputies arrested three individuals in relation to this search warrant.Fifty-year-old Dustin Molden, of St. George was arrested for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. He is confined at the Pottawatomie County Jail on a $50,000 bond.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683573881450.jpeg" alt="Jamie Berges, photo from KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Jamie Berges, photo from KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>Thirty-three-year-old Jamie Berges of St. George was arrested for possession of&nbsp;methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia, along with an outside warrant for probation violation out of Riley County, Kansas. She is currently confined at the Pottawatomie County Jail on a $10,000 bond on the drug charges and a $5,000 bond on the Riley County warrant.Twenty-two-year-old Randall Chilson of St. George was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and an outstanding warrant for sexual exploitation of a child out of Marshall County, Kansas. He is confined at the Pottawatomie County Jail on a $10,000 bond for the drug charges and a $100,000 bond on his Marshall County warrant.

Three arrested following search warrant in Pott. Co.

Courtney Gilbert was elected Geary County Clerk at a Geary County Republican Central Committee Convention held Sunday, May 7th.&nbsp; She will fill the unexpired term of Rebecca Nordyke who resigned the post effective April 28th.  The vote was unanimous, according to Central Committee Chairperson Kathy Tremont.

Gilbert has been the branch manager of INRUST Bank the past six years and previously served as branch manager for Sunflower Bank.  She has 15 years of management experience and has been an active member of the community, Tremont said.

"I am honored to be selected as the new Geary County Clerk, Gilbert said.  I am thrilled to serve my community in a much larger capacity than I am now.  I look forward to his new challenge and plan to hit the ground running," she added.

Born and raised in Junction City, she is married to Geary County Sheriff's Department Captain David Gilbert and the couple have two children. She is currently serving as the President of JC Noon Kiwanis, Treasurer of the Geary  County Law Enforcement Officer Support Auxiliary and Chairperson of Geary County  Crime Stoppers.  She and her husband also coach youth sports in Junction City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683565169719.jpeg" alt="Courtney Gilbert" />
 <figcaption>Courtney Gilbert</figcaption>
 </figure>JC Post/Little Apple PostCourtney Gilbert was elected Geary County Clerk at a Geary County Republican Central Committee Convention held Sunday, May 7th.&nbsp; She will fill the unexpired term of Rebecca Nordyke who resigned the post effective April 28th. The vote was unanimous, according to Central Committee Chairperson Kathy Tremont.Gilbert has been the branch manager of INRUST Bank the past six years and previously served as branch manager for Sunflower Bank. She has 15 years of management experience and has been an active member of the community, Tremont said."I am honored to be selected as the new Geary County Clerk, Gilbert said. I am thrilled to serve my community in a much larger capacity than I am now. I look forward to his new challenge and plan to hit the ground running," she added.Born and raised in Junction City, she is married to Geary County Sheriff's Department Captain David Gilbert and the couple have two children. She is currently serving as the President of JC Noon Kiwanis, Treasurer of the Geary County Law Enforcement Officer Support Auxiliary and Chairperson of Geary County Crime Stoppers. She and her husband also coach youth sports in Junction City.

Courtney Gilbert elected Geary County Clerk

LAFAYETTE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Sunday.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Dodge 1500 driven by Sarah M. Dunn, 28, Moundsville, West Virginia, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Concordia exit.

The driver lost control of the pickup when the attached trailer began to fishtail.

The pickup traveled off the sough side of the road, rolled&nbsp; and a passenger identified as Kayla E. Opicka, 29, Fort Riley, was partially ejected.&nbsp;&nbsp;

First responders pronounced her dead at the scene. EMS transported Dunn to Research Medical Center in Kansas City. Dunn was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

LAFAYETTE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Sunday.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Dodge 1500 driven by Sarah M. Dunn, 28, Moundsville, West Virginia, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Concordia exit.The driver lost control of the pickup when the attached trailer began to fishtail.The pickup traveled off the sough side of the road, rolled&nbsp; and a passenger identified as Kayla E. Opicka, 29, Fort Riley, was partially ejected.&nbsp;&nbsp;First responders pronounced her dead at the scene. EMS transported Dunn to Research Medical Center in Kansas City. Dunn was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Fort Riley woman dies after pickup rollover crash

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;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683554183128.jpeg" alt="Philip Governor Locklear, Failure to appear; Arrested 05/08/2023" />
 <figcaption>Philip Governor Locklear, Failure to appear; Arrested 05/08/2023</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 8

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating ID theft.

Just before 10:30 Saturday, officers filed a report for theft by deception in the 2100 block of Snowbird Drive in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 75-year-old man, Kansas State Bank and Navy Federal Credit Union reported a known female suspect took a check from the victim’s mailbox and cashed it at an ATM. 

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,193.&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating ID theft.Just before 10:30 Saturday, officers filed a report for theft by deception in the 2100 block of Snowbird Drive in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 75-year-old man, Kansas State Bank and Navy Federal Credit Union reported a known female suspect took a check from the victim’s mailbox and cashed it at an ATM. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,193.&nbsp;

RCPD: Suspect took check from man's mailbox, cashed it

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged theft at school.

On Friday, officers filed a report for theft at Riley County High School in 12000 block of Fairview Church Road in Riley, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Just after 4p.m. Friday a 43-year-old man and a 16-year-old boy reported an unknown suspect took a Black Samsung cell phone from the 16-year-old victim's locker at the high school. 

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $600. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#">Crime Stoppers.</a>&nbsp;Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged theft at school.On Friday, officers filed a report for theft at Riley County High School in 12000 block of Fairview Church Road in Riley, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Just after 4p.m. Friday a 43-year-old man and a 16-year-old boy reported an unknown suspect took a Black Samsung cell phone from the 16-year-old victim's locker at the high school. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $600. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#">Crime Stoppers.</a>&nbsp;Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: Suspect took cell phone from teen's locker at school

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/2023/5/1683469751044.jpeg" alt="William Harry Bills, Failure to appear; Arrested 05/06/2023" />
 <figcaption>William Harry Bills, Failure to appear; Arrested 05/06/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683469862413.jpeg" alt="Mariah Rochelle Brown, Possession of hallucinogenic drug; Possession of marijuana; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Arrested 05/07/2023" />
 <figcaption>Mariah Rochelle Brown, Possession of hallucinogenic drug; Possession of marijuana; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Arrested 05/07/2023</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 7

ABILENE - National Travel and Tourism Week is May 7-13, and Abilene is celebrating with two popular events on Saturday.

Beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, walk the streets of downtown Abilene and see what unique finds and collectibles the Abilene Antique Fest’s more than 100 vendors have to offer. In addition, Abilene’s brick-and-mortar antique stores also will be open.

“We’re looking forward to a beautiful day with many visitors,” said Ricki Elliot, Abilene Downtown Antiques/Mud Creek Antiques co-owner. “We host this event each year to bring people to Abilene and offer our customers plenty of options to shop for unique items to add to their collections.”

The event also will feature food booths, including kettle corn and snow cones.

At 10 a.m., visitors can stroll through the Holm Auto Car &amp; Truck Show at 2005 N. Buckeye in Abilene. The event attracts hundreds of classic and beautifully restored cars and trucks annually.

The show also will feature a variety of food vendors, as well as a bounce house for children. Additionally, Topeka's EZ Pieces will provide a mix of music, from rock to reggae, country to calypso, swing to salsa, ballads to the blues.

The Holm Auto Car &amp; Truck Show features a variety of award categories for this year's show, including the following.

The award winners will be announced at 1:30 p.m.

The show will conclude with a vehicle parade through Abilene at 2 p.m.

“The collaboration between Holm Automotive Center and Abilene Antique Fest is commendable,” said Julie Roller Weeks, Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau director. “Pairing these two much-anticipated events together gives residents and visitors more things to do and makes Abilene a destination.”

By SALINA POSTABILENE - National Travel and Tourism Week is May 7-13, and Abilene is celebrating with two popular events on Saturday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683467018676.jpeg" alt="Visitors peruse items at the 2022 Abilene Antique Fest. Photos courtesy&nbsp;Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Visitors peruse items at the 2022 Abilene Antique Fest. Photos courtesy&nbsp;Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>Abilene Antique FestBeginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, walk the streets of downtown Abilene and see what unique finds and collectibles the Abilene Antique Fest’s more than 100 vendors have to offer. In addition, Abilene’s brick-and-mortar antique stores also will be open.“We’re looking forward to a beautiful day with many visitors,” said Ricki Elliot, Abilene Downtown Antiques/Mud Creek Antiques co-owner. “We host this event each year to bring people to Abilene and offer our customers plenty of options to shop for unique items to add to their collections.”The event also will feature food booths, including kettle corn and snow cones.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683467181549.jpeg" alt="Visitors at the 2022 Holm Auto Car &amp; Truck Show." />
 <figcaption>Visitors at the 2022 Holm Auto Car &amp; Truck Show.</figcaption>
 </figure>Holm Auto Car &amp; Truck ShowAt 10 a.m., visitors can stroll through the Holm Auto Car &amp; Truck Show at 2005 N. Buckeye in Abilene. The event attracts hundreds of classic and beautifully restored cars and trucks annually.The show also will feature a variety of food vendors, as well as a bounce house for children. Additionally, Topeka's EZ Pieces will provide a mix of music, from rock to reggae, country to calypso, swing to salsa, ballads to the blues.The Holm Auto Car &amp; Truck Show features a variety of award categories for this year's show, including the following.Best ChevyBest FordBest MoparBest Rat RodBest MotorcycleBest ImportBest TruckBest CarPeople's ChoiceBest of ShowThe award winners will be announced at 1:30 p.m.The show will conclude with a vehicle parade through Abilene at 2 p.m.“The collaboration between Holm Automotive Center and Abilene Antique Fest is commendable,” said Julie Roller Weeks, Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau director. “Pairing these two much-anticipated events together gives residents and visitors more things to do and makes Abilene a destination.”

Antique Fest, Holm Auto Car & Truck Show set for Abilene Saturday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson is pleased that the Kansas Public Investments and Contracts Protection Act is now law.

"Our goal in investing and meeting the state's needs is to make sure that we are neutral to the concerns," Johnson said. "We don't want to swing hard one way or the other. We are responsible, as a fiduciary, to get the best return for the risk taken."

This bill specifically allows the State Treasurer to continue to seek out what will make the most money, regardless of whether or not it follows environmental, social or governance criteria.

"It prescribes that in our contracts and in our proxy votes in the pension portfolio or any other investments, that those are not directed using the ESG criteria. Specifically, that whether it is our investment managers or our contractors, we don't give preferential treatment or discriminate, whether a company meets or fails to meet those criteria."

Johnson notes that the state's pension fund is still in decent shape, even with the recent downturns in the stock market.

"The current funded ratio is a little hard to follow," Johnson said. "It's 72%. It would be over 80%, had the board not changed the investment return assumption last year. That lowering of the return assumption didn't change the number of dollars that were in the fund, but it changed how the liability was projected."

The KPERS funded ratio was at 56% in 2012.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683385661997.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson is pleased that the Kansas Public Investments and Contracts Protection Act is now law."Our goal in investing and meeting the state's needs is to make sure that we are neutral to the concerns," Johnson said. "We don't want to swing hard one way or the other. We are responsible, as a fiduciary, to get the best return for the risk taken."This bill specifically allows the State Treasurer to continue to seek out what will make the most money, regardless of whether or not it follows environmental, social or governance criteria."It prescribes that in our contracts and in our proxy votes in the pension portfolio or any other investments, that those are not directed using the ESG criteria. Specifically, that whether it is our investment managers or our contractors, we don't give preferential treatment or discriminate, whether a company meets or fails to meet those criteria."Johnson notes that the state's pension fund is still in decent shape, even with the recent downturns in the stock market."The current funded ratio is a little hard to follow," Johnson said. "It's 72%. It would be over 80%, had the board not changed the investment return assumption last year. That lowering of the return assumption didn't change the number of dollars that were in the fund, but it changed how the liability was projected."The KPERS funded ratio was at 56% in 2012.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Johnson: ESG law about return on investment

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/2023/5/1683396145165.jpeg" alt="Gary L Ford, Outside Warrant; Arrested 05/05/2023" />
 <figcaption>Gary L Ford, Outside Warrant; Arrested 05/05/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683396199798.jpeg" alt="Angela Michelle Harper, Possession of marijuana; Arrested 05/05/2023" />
 <figcaption>Angela Michelle Harper, Possession of marijuana; Arrested 05/05/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683396263880.jpeg" alt="Gregory Edel Heaven, Intimidation of a witness or victim; Domestic Battery; Unlawful restraint; Criminal Deprivation of property; Outside Warrant; Arrested 05/05/2023" />
 <figcaption>Gregory Edel Heaven, Intimidation of a witness or victim; Domestic Battery; Unlawful restraint; Criminal Deprivation of property; Outside Warrant; Arrested 05/05/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683396363484.jpeg" alt="Justin M Ortega, Violation of a protective order; Arrested 05/05/2023" />
 <figcaption>Justin M Ortega, Violation of a protective order; Arrested 05/05/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683396512978.jpeg" alt="Andy Pinales, Battery against a law enforcement officer; Resisting arrest; Disorderly conduct; Pedestrian under the influence alcohol/drugs; Arrested 05/05/2023" />
 <figcaption>Andy Pinales, Battery against a law enforcement officer; Resisting arrest; Disorderly conduct; Pedestrian under the influence alcohol/drugs; Arrested 05/05/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683396595711.jpeg" alt="Jamie Lee Ray, Probation Violation; Arrested 05/05/2023" />
 <figcaption>Jamie Lee Ray, Probation Violation; Arrested 05/05/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683396659425.jpeg" alt="William Lee Shelmandine, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; Maximum speed limits; Poss of controlled substance; unknown substance; misdemeanor; Transporting an open container; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Arrested 05/05/2023" />
 <figcaption>William Lee Shelmandine, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; Maximum speed limits; Poss of controlled substance; unknown substance; misdemeanor; Transporting an open container; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Arrested 05/05/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683396778276.jpeg" alt="Michael David Truesdell, DUI-Liquor/Drugs(1st Offense); Transporting open container alcohol; Driving w/o lights when needed; Arrested 05/06/2023" />
 <figcaption>Michael David Truesdell, DUI-Liquor/Drugs(1st Offense); Transporting open container alcohol; Driving w/o lights when needed; Arrested 05/06/2023</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 6

When I first became City Manager here over 8 years, we continued with the weekly report we call the 5/15 Report. The purpose of the report at the time was to let the Governing Body know what was all “happening” in the City. Over the years this report has changed, and we now send the report to a number of people who request it and recently my portion of the report has been disseminated by the local media. &nbsp;I have changed my portion of the report over time to the point where I try to inform abut City issues or topics that are related to City Government. I used to do a weekly column in a “former life”, so I enjoy doing it this way.

We are going to continue to discuss more about the various City owned Utilities and this week begin with more on the wastewater or sanitary sewer division. &nbsp;I did find out last week that someone reads what I write &nbsp;as I received a question about regarding the wastewater utility. &nbsp;I told him he was a week ahead and I planned to cover that portion this week.&nbsp;

His question dealt with how wastewater rates are calculated. Last week I wrote about the improvements being made at the two sewer plants and this week the City Commission approved the low bid of more than $56 million to serve as contractor for the Phase II project. On top of that, engineering fees for the work that was done in design engineering and in the upcoming months for construction engineering and inspection are near the $9 million mark. We all can agree that is a lot of money and yes, the rates for that service come into play. In addition, funds&nbsp;are needed to do maintenance on older lines and manholes throughout the community. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Basically, wastewater or sewer rates are based on the amount of water that a resident or a business uses each month. That is based on the fact that most of the water that enters into the sewer collection system and then to the plants comes from water that is purchased from the City. So, for every gallon of water that is used, a gallon is also charged &nbsp;on the waste water side as well.&nbsp;

Now before you get excited and say “Hey Allen, that is not fair as I water my lawn, so I have an attractive home in the community. This helps City look like a more attractive place to live and work in” there is more to the “Rest of the Story”. &nbsp;Remember, I as well have a large lawn and yes, I do irrigate it as well. For residential customers the wastewater charge is set each April and remains at the same amount for the next 12 months. This rate is based on the average number of gallons &nbsp;of water used during the &nbsp;3 previous winter months. We can all agree all of the water used in the winter goes to the sewer plants. So, whatever your rate is in April it will be the same for the next 12 months. &nbsp;Nearly every City utilizes a similar system for residential accounts.&nbsp;

So, what happens to someone that is a new resident of Junction City? As you&nbsp;know&nbsp;that occurs quite often here in Junction City. &nbsp;That person or family has no water use to base the waste water rate on. &nbsp;In that case that account will be billed at the average amount of a residential customer that lives here. &nbsp;At the present time that is $56.17 per month. It will remain that amount until the next April and then it is recalculated on actual water usage for the 3 winter months.

Commercial customers rates are based on the actual amount of water used each month. &nbsp;Now there are some businesses who have a separate meter for irrigation. &nbsp;In that case that meter is not subject to wastewater charges, but the other meters for water in the building is.&nbsp;

The rate structure itself for all customers, residential or commercial and industrial, &nbsp;is the same. The base or minimum charge for any customer is $37.64 per month. &nbsp;Then a volumetric&nbsp;rate is charge based on water usage. &nbsp;That rate is 47 cents per 100 gallons. So, let’s do the math for a customer that used 5,000 gallons of water. &nbsp;Divide the 5K by 100 and you get 50. Multiply that by $.47 and that equals $23.50. &nbsp;Add that and the $37.64 and your bill will total $61.14. &nbsp;Remember, I said above the average residential amount in Junction is 56.17 so the average residential consumption of water per month during those 3 winter months is about 3,950 gallons. &nbsp;There is an old rule of thumb that water use per person per day is 50 gallons. &nbsp;So, in a 4-person household it is 4 x 50 x 30 days and that will bring you to 6,000 gallons per month per household. &nbsp;Of course, that is just an estimate so every household will vary some. &nbsp;When Paula and I had 2 daughters in sports in High school along with our youngest who was in pre-school, our average usage per person exceeded the 50 gallons per day.&nbsp;

Rates for commercial customers is the same but based on actual water use. We do have a few industrial customers where they are charge extra if they have a measure of Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) or Total Suspended Solids (TSS). &nbsp;I am not going to go over the science, but these fees are added due to the quality of water the sewage plants will have to handle.

We have to remember we just to have only sewage go into the sewer system. &nbsp;So, we attempt to keep stormwater out of the wastewater system. There is no need to have those extra gallons enter the sewer plant. &nbsp;Remember are sewer mains are not a “closed system” as there are “entries” at every manhole. &nbsp;As with many other cities, we need to continue to address the manholesand other infrastructure, especially the older&nbsp;areas&nbsp;in the City.

No doubt wastewater is not real “glamorous”, but a very important component in the infrastructure of any City.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680200288059.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>From Allen Dinkel, City ManagerWhen I first became City Manager here over 8 years, we continued with the weekly report we call the 5/15 Report. The purpose of the report at the time was to let the Governing Body know what was all “happening” in the City. Over the years this report has changed, and we now send the report to a number of people who request it and recently my portion of the report has been disseminated by the local media. &nbsp;I have changed my portion of the report over time to the point where I try to inform abut City issues or topics that are related to City Government. I used to do a weekly column in a “former life”, so I enjoy doing it this way.We are going to continue to discuss more about the various City owned Utilities and this week begin with more on the wastewater or sanitary sewer division. &nbsp;I did find out last week that someone reads what I write &nbsp;as I received a question about regarding the wastewater utility. &nbsp;I told him he was a week ahead and I planned to cover that portion this week.&nbsp;His question dealt with how wastewater rates are calculated. Last week I wrote about the improvements being made at the two sewer plants and this week the City Commission approved the low bid of more than $56 million to serve as contractor for the Phase II project. On top of that, engineering fees for the work that was done in design engineering and in the upcoming months for construction engineering and inspection are near the $9 million mark. We all can agree that is a lot of money and yes, the rates for that service come into play. In addition, funds&nbsp;are needed to do maintenance on older lines and manholes throughout the community. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Basically, wastewater or sewer rates are based on the amount of water that a resident or a business uses each month. That is based on the fact that most of the water that enters into the sewer collection system and then to the plants comes from water that is purchased from the City. So, for every gallon of water that is used, a gallon is also charged &nbsp;on the waste water side as well.&nbsp;Now before you get excited and say “Hey Allen, that is not fair as I water my lawn, so I have an attractive home in the community. This helps City look like a more attractive place to live and work in” there is more to the “Rest of the Story”. &nbsp;Remember, I as well have a large lawn and yes, I do irrigate it as well. For residential customers the wastewater charge is set each April and remains at the same amount for the next 12 months. This rate is based on the average number of gallons &nbsp;of water used during the &nbsp;3 previous winter months. We can all agree all of the water used in the winter goes to the sewer plants. So, whatever your rate is in April it will be the same for the next 12 months. &nbsp;Nearly every City utilizes a similar system for residential accounts.&nbsp;So, what happens to someone that is a new resident of Junction City? As you&nbsp;know&nbsp;that occurs quite often here in Junction City. &nbsp;That person or family has no water use to base the waste water rate on. &nbsp;In that case that account will be billed at the average amount of a residential customer that lives here. &nbsp;At the present time that is $56.17 per month. It will remain that amount until the next April and then it is recalculated on actual water usage for the 3 winter months.Commercial customers rates are based on the actual amount of water used each month. &nbsp;Now there are some businesses who have a separate meter for irrigation. &nbsp;In that case that meter is not subject to wastewater charges, but the other meters for water in the building is.&nbsp;The rate structure itself for all customers, residential or commercial and industrial, &nbsp;is the same. The base or minimum charge for any customer is $37.64 per month. &nbsp;Then a volumetric&nbsp;rate is charge based on water usage. &nbsp;That rate is 47 cents per 100 gallons. So, let’s do the math for a customer that used 5,000 gallons of water. &nbsp;Divide the 5K by 100 and you get 50. Multiply that by $.47 and that equals $23.50. &nbsp;Add that and the $37.64 and your bill will total $61.14. &nbsp;Remember, I said above the average residential amount in Junction is 56.17 so the average residential consumption of water per month during those 3 winter months is about 3,950 gallons. &nbsp;There is an old rule of thumb that water use per person per day is 50 gallons. &nbsp;So, in a 4-person household it is 4 x 50 x 30 days and that will bring you to 6,000 gallons per month per household. &nbsp;Of course, that is just an estimate so every household will vary some. &nbsp;When Paula and I had 2 daughters in sports in High school along with our youngest who was in pre-school, our average usage per person exceeded the 50 gallons per day.&nbsp;Rates for commercial customers is the same but based on actual water use. We do have a few industrial customers where they are charge extra if they have a measure of Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) or Total Suspended Solids (TSS). &nbsp;I am not going to go over the science, but these fees are added due to the quality of water the sewage plants will have to handle.We have to remember we just to have only sewage go into the sewer system. &nbsp;So, we attempt to keep stormwater out of the wastewater system. There is no need to have those extra gallons enter the sewer plant. &nbsp;Remember are sewer mains are not a “closed system” as there are “entries” at every manhole. &nbsp;As with many other cities, we need to continue to address the manholesand other infrastructure, especially the older&nbsp;areas&nbsp;in the City.No doubt wastewater is not real “glamorous”, but a very important component in the infrastructure of any City.&nbsp;

City of Junction City Five/Fifteen report

CLAY COUNTY—The driver accused in a fatal DUI crash that occurred just after 7a.m. Thursday in Clay County has been moved from the hospital to jail.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Chevy Silverado driven by&nbsp; Jacob Tyler&nbsp;Zelinski, 27, Beloit, was&nbsp;was eastbound on U.S. 24 one mile east of Clay Center.

The pickup crossed the westbound lane, entered the north ditch and struck a 2001 Buick Park Avenue driven by Dale Hammond, 82, Clay Center, who was northbound on a driveway just North of U.S. 24.

Hammond was pronounced dead at the scene.

After the collision Zelinski fled the scene on foot. He was located and placed under arrest a short time later and transported to the Clay County Hospital. 

He is being held on requested charges that include Involuntary Manslaughter, Fail to stop at crash resulting in death, DUI, Expired registration, Fail to maintain a lane and Failure to wear seatbelt, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683318828558.png" alt="Zelinski from an earlier arrest in Clay County" />
 <figcaption>Zelinski from an earlier arrest in Clay County</figcaption>
 </figure>CLAY COUNTY—The driver accused in a fatal DUI crash that occurred just after 7a.m. Thursday in Clay County has been moved from the hospital to jail.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Chevy Silverado driven by&nbsp; Jacob Tyler&nbsp;Zelinski, 27, Beloit, was&nbsp;was eastbound on U.S. 24 one mile east of Clay Center.The pickup crossed the westbound lane, entered the north ditch and struck a 2001 Buick Park Avenue driven by Dale Hammond, 82, Clay Center, who was northbound on a driveway just North of U.S. 24.Hammond was pronounced dead at the scene.After the collision Zelinski fled the scene on foot. He was located and placed under arrest a short time later and transported to the Clay County Hospital. He is being held on requested charges that include Involuntary Manslaughter, Fail to stop at crash resulting in death, DUI, Expired registration, Fail to maintain a lane and Failure to wear seatbelt, according to the KHP.

Suspect in fatal hit-and-run moved from hospital to jail

RILEY COUNTY - The Kansas Department of Transportation(KDOT) will close the outside(right) lane of K-18 at the 56th Avenue exit ramp on Monday morning at 9:00 am.

Crews will be working near mile marker 183, near the Manhattan Regional Airport, and the exit ramp will also be closed during this project.

KDOT will remove a sign structure on westbound K-18, traffic will be stopped for approximately 10-15 minutes while crews move the sign.

Drivers are asked to pay attention to signage and traffic cones in the area, and expect delays up to 15 minutes through the area.

The project is expected to be completed by 1:30 pm on Monday.

KDOT urges all motorists to be alert and obey the warning signs when approaching and driving through a highway work zone. To stay aware of highway construction projects across Kansas, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.org</a>&nbsp;or call 5-1-1.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683318110963.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY - The Kansas Department of Transportation(KDOT) will close the outside(right) lane of K-18 at the 56th Avenue exit ramp on Monday morning at 9:00 am.Crews will be working near mile marker 183, near the Manhattan Regional Airport, and the exit ramp will also be closed during this project.KDOT will remove a sign structure on westbound K-18, traffic will be stopped for approximately 10-15 minutes while crews move the sign.Drivers are asked to pay attention to signage and traffic cones in the area, and expect delays up to 15 minutes through the area.The project is expected to be completed by 1:30 pm on Monday.KDOT urges all motorists to be alert and obey the warning signs when approaching and driving through a highway work zone. To stay aware of highway construction projects across Kansas, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.org</a>&nbsp;or call 5-1-1.&nbsp;

KDOT to close one lane of westbound K18 on Monday morning

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/grieving-moms-plea-to-kansas-lawmakers-do-something-this-epidemic-is-killing-our-kids/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The leaders of Kansas State University and the University of Kansas endorsed legislation overturning a federal ban on collection of student-level data on higher education enrollment rates, degree completion and post-college success across institutions and majors.

Support from KU chancellor Doug Girod and KSU president Richard Linton coincided with a commitment from U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican, to advocate for approval by Congress of a measure expanding availability of practical information for use by individuals deciding where to enroll in college.

The U.S. House approved a version of the College Transparency Act in 2022, but the U.S. Senate didn’t concur. On Monday, a bipartisan group of senators introduced a bill aimed at closing gaps in U.S. college data reporting.

“Families and students should have access to all relevant information as they consider their higher education opportunities,” Girod said. “The understanding of student success at universities and a comparison between the cost to attend a university and potential job placement and lifetime earnings are important factors in the value of a degree.”

Linton said the proposal enabling the National Center for Education Statistics to securely report privacy-protected, student-level data would be helpful to students and their families.

“As a land-grant university,” Linton said, “K-State strives to be accessible to all Kansans and the data this bill provides to students, families, universities and others will help tell a complete story of student outcomes.”

Marshall said the objective was to package and deliver information that wasn’t distorted by colleges or universities in a quest to attract students. He said distribution of skewed statistics in the recruiting process would be “immoral and unfair.”

The senator said it made sense to create a central repository of comparative information on graduation rates, average student debt and starting salaries for graduates of every college or university in the nation.

“Deciding whether to attend college or not is one of the biggest choices students will make in their lifetimes, and they should know what they’re getting into before making that choice,” Marshall said. “I’m proud to support this bill and help empower students to make the best possible choice to meet their career goals after high school and beyond.”

Under the new bill introduced by U.S. Sens. Tim Kaine of Virginia, Bill Cassidy of Louisiana and Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, the National Center for Education Statistics would be responsible for securely storing student information, working with other federal agencies to generate post-college outcomes reports and presenting summary information on a public user-friendly website.

Information shared by NCES, which is part of the U.S. Department of Education, would allow students to compare colleges and academic programs while also aiding lawmakers attempting to improve U.S. higher education and support businesses searching for sources of potential employees.

Congress has weighed legislation for a half-dozen years that would remove a ban on implementation of a federal data system to track&nbsp; movement through higher education and into the workforce.

Some private colleges have opposed a federal mandate on disclosure of information on a national scale and some federal lawmakers have been skeptical of government prying into the lives of Americans. More than 150 higher education organizations and other groups have endorsed some form of a college transparency law.

In 2022, the U.S. House — not the U.S. Senate — attached a higher education transparency amendment to an economic development measure. The House sought to require systematic reporting of student enrollment, persistence, transfer and completion for all programs and degree levels. Data would have been disaggregated by demographics, including race and ethnicity, gender and age.

In addition, the House’s version would have enabled the Department of Education to share limited data with the Internal Revenue Service and Social Security Administration to calculate postgraduate outcomes, including income and career prospects.

<figure>
 <img src="https://kansasreflector.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/KU_KSTATE_PREZ_16x9-1024x576.jpg" alt="University of Kansas chancellor Doug Girod, left, and Kansas State University president Richard Linton urged passage of federal legislation expanding access to higher education data helpful to people deciding where to attend college. U.S.S Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, also supports the latest version of the bipartisan College Transparency Act. (Photos by Sherman Smith and Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>University of Kansas chancellor Doug Girod, left, and Kansas State University president Richard Linton urged passage of federal legislation expanding access to higher education data helpful to people deciding where to attend college. U.S.S Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, also supports the latest version of the bipartisan College Transparency Act. (Photos by Sherman Smith and Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/grieving-moms-plea-to-kansas-lawmakers-do-something-this-epidemic-is-killing-our-kids/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The leaders of Kansas State University and the University of Kansas endorsed legislation overturning a federal ban on collection of student-level data on higher education enrollment rates, degree completion and post-college success across institutions and majors.Support from KU chancellor Doug Girod and KSU president Richard Linton coincided with a commitment from U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican, to advocate for approval by Congress of a measure expanding availability of practical information for use by individuals deciding where to enroll in college.The U.S. House approved a version of the College Transparency Act in 2022, but the U.S. Senate didn’t concur. On Monday, a bipartisan group of senators introduced a bill aimed at closing gaps in U.S. college data reporting.“Families and students should have access to all relevant information as they consider their higher education opportunities,” Girod said. “The understanding of student success at universities and a comparison between the cost to attend a university and potential job placement and lifetime earnings are important factors in the value of a degree.”Linton said the proposal enabling the National Center for Education Statistics to securely report privacy-protected, student-level data would be helpful to students and their families.“As a land-grant university,” Linton said, “K-State strives to be accessible to all Kansans and the data this bill provides to students, families, universities and others will help tell a complete story of student outcomes.”Marshall said the objective was to package and deliver information that wasn’t distorted by colleges or universities in a quest to attract students. He said distribution of skewed statistics in the recruiting process would be “immoral and unfair.”The senator said it made sense to create a central repository of comparative information on graduation rates, average student debt and starting salaries for graduates of every college or university in the nation.“Deciding whether to attend college or not is one of the biggest choices students will make in their lifetimes, and they should know what they’re getting into before making that choice,” Marshall said. “I’m proud to support this bill and help empower students to make the best possible choice to meet their career goals after high school and beyond.”Under the new bill introduced by U.S. Sens. Tim Kaine of Virginia, Bill Cassidy of Louisiana and Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, the National Center for Education Statistics would be responsible for securely storing student information, working with other federal agencies to generate post-college outcomes reports and presenting summary information on a public user-friendly website.Information shared by NCES, which is part of the U.S. Department of Education, would allow students to compare colleges and academic programs while also aiding lawmakers attempting to improve U.S. higher education and support businesses searching for sources of potential employees.Congress has weighed legislation for a half-dozen years that would remove a ban on implementation of a federal data system to track&nbsp; movement through higher education and into the workforce.Some private colleges have opposed a federal mandate on disclosure of information on a national scale and some federal lawmakers have been skeptical of government prying into the lives of Americans. More than 150 higher education organizations and other groups have endorsed some form of a college transparency law.In 2022, the U.S. House — not the U.S. Senate — attached a higher education transparency amendment to an economic development measure. The House sought to require systematic reporting of student enrollment, persistence, transfer and completion for all programs and degree levels. Data would have been disaggregated by demographics, including race and ethnicity, gender and age.In addition, the House’s version would have enabled the Department of Education to share limited data with the Internal Revenue Service and Social Security Administration to calculate postgraduate outcomes, including income and career prospects.

KSU, KU leaders endorse broader federal reporting on post-college success data

The Geary County District Court will be closed for the morning of June 9th, from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm for staff training.

The court will reopen for normal operations in the afternoon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683290715928.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Geary County District Court will be closed for the morning of June 9th, from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm for staff training.The court will reopen for normal operations in the afternoon.

Geary County District Court closes for training on June 9th

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;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683295923743.jpeg" alt="Larry Ariaz, Failure to appear; Arrested 05/04/2023" />
 <figcaption>Larry Ariaz, Failure to appear; Arrested 05/04/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683296012724.jpeg" alt="Brett David Dobbins, DUI-Liquor/Drugs(1st offense); Transporting open container alcohol; Fail to yield at stop/yield sign; Driving w/o lights when needed; Arrested 05/05/2023" />
 <figcaption>Brett David Dobbins, DUI-Liquor/Drugs(1st offense); Transporting open container alcohol; Fail to yield at stop/yield sign; Driving w/o lights when needed; Arrested 05/05/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683296142576.jpeg" alt="Joey D Noriega, Outside warrant; Arrested 05/04/2023" />
 <figcaption>Joey D Noriega, Outside warrant; Arrested 05/04/2023</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 5

Junction City Little Theatre

This weekend will be your last chance to see&nbsp;Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at the C.L. Hoover Opera House, located at 135 W. Seventh Street in Junction City.

Join the cast of Junction City Little Theatre, with the help of music from Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Time Rice, in a show told entirely through song with the help of a main character narrator, the musical follows preferred son Joseph. After being sold into slavery by his brothers, he ingratiates himself with Egyptian noble Potiphar, but ends up in jail after refusing the amorous advances of Potiphar’s wife. 

While imprisoned, Joseph discovers his ability to interpret dreams, and he soon finds himself in front of the mighty but troubled, Elvis-inspired, Pharaoh. Joseph’s solution to Egypt’s famine elevates him to Pharaoh’s right-hand man and reunites him with his family.

Based on the "coat of many colors" story within the Bible's Book of Genesis, take a wild journey with Joseph through Ancient Egypt as he and other characters navigate the feelings of love, betrayal, acceptance and revelation.&nbsp;

Showtimes include Friday and Saturday performances at&nbsp; 7:30 p.m. with a matinee show on Sunday at 2:00 p.m.&nbsp;

The production's sponsors include Central National Bank, Jim Clark Chevrolet and the Bramlage Family Foundation.

<a href="https://ci.ovationtix.com/35615/production/1147235">Tickets can be purchased here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683228877564.jpeg" alt="Brent Weaver as Joseph. Photo by Ashley Rae-Ann Casey" />
 <figcaption>Brent Weaver as Joseph. Photo by Ashley Rae-Ann Casey</figcaption>
 </figure>Junction City Little TheatreThis weekend will be your last chance to see&nbsp;Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at the C.L. Hoover Opera House, located at 135 W. Seventh Street in Junction City.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683229068234.png" alt="Image courtesy Junction City Little Theatre" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Junction City Little Theatre</figcaption>
 </figure>Join the cast of Junction City Little Theatre, with the help of music from Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Time Rice, in a show told entirely through song with the help of a main character narrator, the musical follows preferred son Joseph. After being sold into slavery by his brothers, he ingratiates himself with Egyptian noble Potiphar, but ends up in jail after refusing the amorous advances of Potiphar’s wife. While imprisoned, Joseph discovers his ability to interpret dreams, and he soon finds himself in front of the mighty but troubled, Elvis-inspired, Pharaoh. Joseph’s solution to Egypt’s famine elevates him to Pharaoh’s right-hand man and reunites him with his family.Based on the "coat of many colors" story within the Bible's Book of Genesis, take a wild journey with Joseph through Ancient Egypt as he and other characters navigate the feelings of love, betrayal, acceptance and revelation.&nbsp;Showtimes include Friday and Saturday performances at&nbsp; 7:30 p.m. with a matinee show on Sunday at 2:00 p.m.&nbsp;The production's sponsors include Central National Bank, Jim Clark Chevrolet and the Bramlage Family Foundation.<a href="https://ci.ovationtix.com/35615/production/1147235">Tickets can be purchased here.</a>

JCLT: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

CLAY COUNTY—One driver died and law enforcement arrested the other driver involved in an accident just before 7a.m. Thursday in Clay County.

 After the collision Zelinski fled the scene on foot. He was located and placed under arrest a short time later and transported to the Clay County Hospital. Zelinski was also not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

CLAY COUNTY—One driver died and law enforcement arrested the other driver involved in an accident just before 7a.m. Thursday in Clay County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Chevy Silverado driven by&nbsp; Jacob Tyler&nbsp;Zelinski, 27, Beloit, was&nbsp;was eastbound on U.S. 24 one mile east of Clay Center.The pickup crossed the westbound lane, entered the north ditch and struck a 2001 Buick Park Avenue driven by Dale Hammond, 82, Clay Center, who was northbound on a driveway just North of U.S. 24.Hammond was pronounced dead at the scene. After the collision Zelinski fled the scene on foot. He was located and placed under arrest a short time later and transported to the Clay County Hospital. Zelinski was also not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

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