The Junction City Commission will consider an ordinance that could encourage upper-story living in the downtown.

City staff is recommending the commission approve an ordinance establishing a Rural Housing Incentive District policy. RHIDs are designed as a way for communities under 60,000 population to capture incremental growth in tax collection to help developers recoup some expense in housing projects.

The request for the policy was made by Junction City Main Street to help spark development of upper-floor residential space above downtown businesses.

The commission will also consider a pair of special use permits. The first would allow a church at 823 St. Washington, which is zoned in a commercial service restricted district. The second would allow a tattoo studio at 703 N. Washington, which is zoned in a central commercial district.&nbsp;

City staff is recommending both requests be approved.

The meeting is scheduled at 7 p.m. Tuesday. Click <a href="http://junctioncityks.civicclerk.com/Web/Player.aspx?id=281&amp;key=-1&amp;mod=-1&amp;mk=-1&amp;nov=0">HERE</a> for the complete agenda.

JC PostThe Junction City Commission will consider an ordinance that could encourage upper-story living in the downtown.City staff is recommending the commission approve an ordinance establishing a Rural Housing Incentive District policy. RHIDs are designed as a way for communities under 60,000 population to capture incremental growth in tax collection to help developers recoup some expense in housing projects.The request for the policy was made by Junction City Main Street to help spark development of upper-floor residential space above downtown businesses.The commission will also consider a pair of special use permits. The first would allow a church at 823 St. Washington, which is zoned in a commercial service restricted district. The second would allow a tattoo studio at 703 N. Washington, which is zoned in a central commercial district.&nbsp;City staff is recommending both requests be approved.The meeting is scheduled at 7 p.m. Tuesday. Click <a href="http://junctioncityks.civicclerk.com/Web/Player.aspx?id=281&amp;key=-1&amp;mod=-1&amp;mk=-1&amp;nov=0">HERE</a> for the complete agenda.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591501983643.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

RHID policy, special use permits on Junction City Commission agenda

Louis Copt has a passion for art and Kansas landscapes

By SHERIDAN WIMMER <a href="https://kansaslivingmagazine.com/articles/2023/03/23/kansas-artist-showcases-love-of-prescribed-burning-in-the-flint-hills">Kansas Living</a>

“You have arrived at your destination,” Google maps told me as I 
started up the driveway. I questioned Google, but when I saw a painting 
of a barn on the side of a shed, I knew I had indeed been led to the 
correct home north of Lawrence.

Stepping inside the home of Louis and Phyllis Copt takes you on a 
journey of photos, paintings, sculptures and even a wood-fired oven 
perfect for pizzas. There’s no lack of interest as your eyes wander 
through the home – and no shortage of laughter from the married couple 
of 52 years.

One image displayed is of the couple from their wedding day. Another 
is from their honeymoon where they hitchhiked through Europe.

“This is a bag of raisins,” Phyllis says as she points to the photo. 
“I didn’t know what a kilo was at the time, so I ordered that, and here 
we were with our two-pound bag of raisins.”

“Those raisins probably saved our lives,” Louis jokes.

Many of the paintings and sculptures throughout the house are ones Louis
 created himself. The painter has established a collection of artworks 
that showcase his love of Kansas.

Louis was born and raised in Emporia. But his time spent with his 
French-Swiss grandparents on a farm near Osage City fixed fond memories 
of milking cows and chasing chickens.

“My grandparents never had anything mechanized on their farm,” Louis 
says. “They worked everything by horse and wagon. They were strong. You 
have to be tough and smart to make a living on the land. That work ethic
 is how I think of what I do now as an artist – you have to work at it 
every day.”

Not only was his work ethic influenced by his grandparents, his love 
of Kansas and its landscape, too, was shaped by the childhood he enjoyed
 on their farm.

“Running around on the farm instilled a love for Kansas and its 
landscapes,” Louis says. “Specifically, I remember the barn being the 
nucleus of the farm. That’s where the cattle were, the horses, the hay. 
That’s where my inspiration for my barn collection comes from.”

His love of Kansas landscapes is evident in his other collection – 
ones that showcase the springtime prescribed burns on their land to 
rejuvenate growth and protect against wildfires.

Prescribed burns have been used in the Flint Hills for thousands of 
years. Native Americans used fire, which they called “the red buffalo”. 
The fires cause the grass to green up quickly which attracts the bison.

“It’s a renewal,” Louis says. “Burning is a positive thing. It is a 
practice that keeps the Flint Hills the Flint Hills. It is also an 
important stage in range management.”

Louis works directly with farmers and ranchers he’s become friends 
with over the years. The respect Louis has for farmers is evident in his
 work.

“Farmers are the salt of the Earth,” he says. “They’re stewards of 
the land and love what they do, and it’s their passion. There’s a shared
 connection between the ranchers I work with and the work I do because 
there’s a mutual respect and love for the land.”

Since prescribed burning in the Flint Hills requires specific weather
 conditions, (wind direction and speed are critical to a safe and 
successful burn) Louis and his contacts have a two-way system of getting
 in touch with each other when a controlled burn is planned.

“I’ll go out and photograph every spring to get inspiration photos of
 the controlled burns,” Louis says. “There’s a window of about one to 
two hours where the light is perfect. If it’s in the middle of the day, 
there isn’t a lot of drama. If you get the images too late, all you can 
see are the flames.”

From those photos, which Louis has collected binders through the years, Louis paints what he calls a preservation of the past.

“I see my work as preserving a bit of Kansas for future generations,”
 he says. “You look at paintings of Paris from the 1800s and it’s this 
little slice of history that’s been captured. That’s how I want my 
paintings to reflect Kansas – a look back on what Kansas looked like.”

Louis sees his journey of becoming the artist he is now as a renewal 
of its own. Early in his career, he was a journalist at the Emporia 
Gazette. When the Copts’ son, Nathan, was 2 years old, they moved to 
Germany for approximately a year.

When they came back to the United States in 1976, they settled in 
Lawrence – and after a few homes, they eventually designed and built the
 home they’re in now – complete with a studio and that impressive pizza 
oven.

Louis worked at Maupintour – a travel agency out of Lawrence – where 
he did advertising and marketing until 1984, when he decided to quit 
with support from his wife.

“Phyllis was the one who said to me, ‘If you’re going to be an 
artist, you need to do it full-time,’” Louis says. “That’s when I quit 
my corporate job and moved to New York City to attend the Art Students 
League for a summer.”

He took a risk by quitting his corporate life and hasn’t looked back.

“It’s about finding your passion,” he says. “Being an artist was really what I wanted to be and needed to be.”

The land that now has the barn painted on the side of its shed had 
once seen fire itself. Before the Copts built the house that’s now their
 home, the previous home was destroyed in a fire. From the ashes, the 
Copts built a home where fire is present, but in a way that gives back 
instead of takes through Louis’ paintings. As for the pizza oven, Louis 
likes a nice pepperoni pizza with black olives and green peppers.

Learn more about Louis Copt and his paintings at <a href="http://www.louiscopt.com" target="_blank">www.louiscopt.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680277460112.png" alt="Courtesy Kansas Living" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Kansas Living</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Louis Copt has a passion for art and Kansas landscapes</h2>By SHERIDAN WIMMER <a href="https://kansaslivingmagazine.com/articles/2023/03/23/kansas-artist-showcases-love-of-prescribed-burning-in-the-flint-hills">Kansas Living</a>“You have arrived at your destination,” Google maps told me as I 
started up the driveway. I questioned Google, but when I saw a painting 
of a barn on the side of a shed, I knew I had indeed been led to the 
correct home north of Lawrence.Stepping inside the home of Louis and Phyllis Copt takes you on a 
journey of photos, paintings, sculptures and even a wood-fired oven 
perfect for pizzas. There’s no lack of interest as your eyes wander 
through the home – and no shortage of laughter from the married couple 
of 52 years.One image displayed is of the couple from their wedding day. Another 
is from their honeymoon where they hitchhiked through Europe.“This is a bag of raisins,” Phyllis says as she points to the photo. 
“I didn’t know what a kilo was at the time, so I ordered that, and here 
we were with our two-pound bag of raisins.”“Those raisins probably saved our lives,” Louis jokes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680277559204.png" alt="Courtesy Kansas Living Magazine" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Kansas Living Magazine</figcaption>
 </figure>Many of the paintings and sculptures throughout the house are ones Louis
 created himself. The painter has established a collection of artworks 
that showcase his love of Kansas.<h2>Developing the Kansas work ethic</h2>Louis was born and raised in Emporia. But his time spent with his 
French-Swiss grandparents on a farm near Osage City fixed fond memories 
of milking cows and chasing chickens.“My grandparents never had anything mechanized on their farm,” Louis 
says. “They worked everything by horse and wagon. They were strong. You 
have to be tough and smart to make a living on the land. That work ethic
 is how I think of what I do now as an artist – you have to work at it 
every day.”Not only was his work ethic influenced by his grandparents, his love 
of Kansas and its landscape, too, was shaped by the childhood he enjoyed
 on their farm.“Running around on the farm instilled a love for Kansas and its 
landscapes,” Louis says. “Specifically, I remember the barn being the 
nucleus of the farm. That’s where the cattle were, the horses, the hay. 
That’s where my inspiration for my barn collection comes from.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680277592520.png" alt="Courtesy Kansas Living Magazine" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Kansas Living Magazine</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Collecting pasture burns</h2>His love of Kansas landscapes is evident in his other collection – 
ones that showcase the springtime prescribed burns on their land to 
rejuvenate growth and protect against wildfires.Prescribed burns have been used in the Flint Hills for thousands of 
years. Native Americans used fire, which they called “the red buffalo”. 
The fires cause the grass to green up quickly which attracts the bison.“It’s a renewal,” Louis says. “Burning is a positive thing. It is a 
practice that keeps the Flint Hills the Flint Hills. It is also an 
important stage in range management.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680277627816.png" alt="Courtesy Kansas Living Magazine" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Kansas Living Magazine</figcaption>
 </figure>Louis works directly with farmers and ranchers he’s become friends 
with over the years. The respect Louis has for farmers is evident in his
 work.“Farmers are the salt of the Earth,” he says. “They’re stewards of 
the land and love what they do, and it’s their passion. There’s a shared
 connection between the ranchers I work with and the work I do because 
there’s a mutual respect and love for the land.”Since prescribed burning in the Flint Hills requires specific weather
 conditions, (wind direction and speed are critical to a safe and 
successful burn) Louis and his contacts have a two-way system of getting
 in touch with each other when a controlled burn is planned.“I’ll go out and photograph every spring to get inspiration photos of
 the controlled burns,” Louis says. “There’s a window of about one to 
two hours where the light is perfect. If it’s in the middle of the day, 
there isn’t a lot of drama. If you get the images too late, all you can 
see are the flames.”From those photos, which Louis has collected binders through the years, Louis paints what he calls a preservation of the past.“I see my work as preserving a bit of Kansas for future generations,”
 he says. “You look at paintings of Paris from the 1800s and it’s this 
little slice of history that’s been captured. That’s how I want my 
paintings to reflect Kansas – a look back on what Kansas looked like.”<h2>Giving way to renewal</h2>Louis sees his journey of becoming the artist he is now as a renewal 
of its own. Early in his career, he was a journalist at the Emporia 
Gazette. When the Copts’ son, Nathan, was 2 years old, they moved to 
Germany for approximately a year.When they came back to the United States in 1976, they settled in 
Lawrence – and after a few homes, they eventually designed and built the
 home they’re in now – complete with a studio and that impressive pizza 
oven.Louis worked at Maupintour – a travel agency out of Lawrence – where 
he did advertising and marketing until 1984, when he decided to quit 
with support from his wife.“Phyllis was the one who said to me, ‘If you’re going to be an 
artist, you need to do it full-time,’” Louis says. “That’s when I quit 
my corporate job and moved to New York City to attend the Art Students 
League for a summer.”He took a risk by quitting his corporate life and hasn’t looked back.“It’s about finding your passion,” he says. “Being an artist was really what I wanted to be and needed to be.”The land that now has the barn painted on the side of its shed had 
once seen fire itself. Before the Copts built the house that’s now their
 home, the previous home was destroyed in a fire. From the ashes, the 
Copts built a home where fire is present, but in a way that gives back 
instead of takes through Louis’ paintings. As for the pizza oven, Louis 
likes a nice pepperoni pizza with black olives and green peppers.Learn more about Louis Copt and his paintings at <a href="http://www.louiscopt.com" target="_blank">www.louiscopt.com</a>.

Kansas artist showcases love of prescribed burning in the Flint Hills

MANHATTAN —&nbsp;Four Kansas Farm Credit Associations and CoBank recently combined to give $1 million to support the Kansas State University College of Agriculture's innovation centers for grain, food, animal and agronomy research.&nbsp; This investment will fund new facilities,&nbsp;renovations of current buildings&nbsp;and&nbsp;improvements in the technology and equipment necessary for interdisciplinary,&nbsp;<a>cutting-edge</a>&nbsp;research, all of which will&nbsp;continue to enhance the college's exceptional student experience.&nbsp; "An investment in Kansas State University's innovation centers is an investment in the future of U.S. agriculture,"said Bob Campbell, senior vice president of Frontier Farm Credit, speaking on behalf of Farm Credit Associations of Kansas and CoBank.&nbsp;"The university is focused on solving some of today's biggest challenges in agriculture. The projects funded through our donation will enhance the university's leadership in global food systems and bio-security innovations and directly benefit producers and agri-businesses. We are proud to partner with Kansas State University in a shared mission of supporting agriculture and rural communities for today and tomorrow." Contributors to this investment are Farm Credit of Western Kansas,&nbsp;Colby; High Plains Farm Credit,&nbsp;Larned; Frontier Farm Credit,&nbsp;Manhattan;&nbsp;and&nbsp;CoBank&nbsp;and American AgCredit,&nbsp;both in&nbsp;Wichita. This investment supports the university's interdisciplinary research initiative, which brings together the brightest minds from across the K-State campus to collaborate and work with agricultural leaders from the state and region. "Our vision for our new infrastructure project is to create state-of-the-art space to bring many of our departments together for interdisciplinary research,"&nbsp;said Ernie Minton, dean of the College of Agriculture and director of K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;"The opportunities and challenges we face in agriculture are complex in nature and increasing in number globally. We need to bring the best minds to the table with different skills and knowledge to collaborate, integrate and develop innovative solutions that prepare the next-generation workforce to keep agriculture moving forward."

K-State NewsMANHATTAN —&nbsp;Four Kansas Farm Credit Associations and CoBank recently combined to give $1 million to support the Kansas State University College of Agriculture's innovation centers for grain, food, animal and agronomy research.&nbsp; This investment will fund new facilities,&nbsp;renovations of current buildings&nbsp;and&nbsp;improvements in the technology and equipment necessary for interdisciplinary,&nbsp;<a>cutting-edge</a>&nbsp;research, all of which will&nbsp;continue to enhance the college's exceptional student experience.&nbsp; "An investment in Kansas State University's innovation centers is an investment in the future of U.S. agriculture,"said Bob Campbell, senior vice president of Frontier Farm Credit, speaking on behalf of Farm Credit Associations of Kansas and CoBank.&nbsp;"The university is focused on solving some of today's biggest challenges in agriculture. The projects funded through our donation will enhance the university's leadership in global food systems and bio-security innovations and directly benefit producers and agri-businesses. We are proud to partner with Kansas State University in a shared mission of supporting agriculture and rural communities for today and tomorrow." Contributors to this investment are Farm Credit of Western Kansas,&nbsp;Colby; High Plains Farm Credit,&nbsp;Larned; Frontier Farm Credit,&nbsp;Manhattan;&nbsp;and&nbsp;CoBank&nbsp;and American AgCredit,&nbsp;both in&nbsp;Wichita. This investment supports the university's interdisciplinary research initiative, which brings together the brightest minds from across the K-State campus to collaborate and work with agricultural leaders from the state and region. "Our vision for our new infrastructure project is to create state-of-the-art space to bring many of our departments together for interdisciplinary research,"&nbsp;said Ernie Minton, dean of the College of Agriculture and director of K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;"The opportunities and challenges we face in agriculture are complex in nature and increasing in number globally. We need to bring the best minds to the table with different skills and knowledge to collaborate, integrate and develop innovative solutions that prepare the next-generation workforce to keep agriculture moving forward."

Farm Credit Associations, CoBank invest $1M in K-State ag innovation centers

TOPEKA –&nbsp;Today, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment recognizes Fred the Preparedness Dog’s retirement and honors him with the title of emeritus effective June 30.

In 2013, “Fred, a German shepherd, had just joined our family. It all started when he jumped into the bathtub,” said Michael McNulty, emergency management director and handler. “My wife eagerly captured all his adorable dog moments with her camera. So, when Fred hopped into the tub to shelter during a weather warning, she quickly snapped a photo and sent it to me. I posted Fred’s photo on social media at work and added a caption: ‘Fred knows where to go in case of severe weather. You should too.’”

Fred became the first dog to work with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on preparedness in the country. During his decade of state service, Fred participated in close to 300 events, traveling more than 47 thousand miles and having tens of thousands of interactions with children and families.

“Fred has been an asset to public health across Kansas, going above and beyond to spread the word about the importance of being prepared for all types of emergencies,”&nbsp;said KDHE Secretary&nbsp;Janet Stanek.&nbsp;“Fred has also lended comfort and support to the team at KDHE with regular visits to our offices.”

Fred’s actions also garnered national attention for many of his activities. He presented at three national conferences, was featured in&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2Jsb2dzLmNkYy5nb3YvcHVibGljaGVhbHRobWF0dGVycy8yMDE2LzA5L2ZyZWQtdGhlLXByZXBhcmVkbmVzcy1kb2cvP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.9zCDPmQDjr_JScVq71nAjFfURrhJgJkEjabswroxoNc/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">CDC</a>&nbsp;and Federal Emergency Management Agency publications and was later named the Kansas Veterinary Medical Association Professional Pet of the Year.

At the age of 11, Fred is excited to enjoy his golden years with his best friend, Michael, and the rest of his family. Although he will not be taking event requests, Fred will still enjoy the occasional community event, and his paws will continue to be active on social media. Follow Fred on his social media&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vRnJlZFRoZVByZXBhcmVkbmVzc0RvZ0tkaGU_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.LJozd4xbv-fYz4alAREUMTdqa087jniPyi347osmKE4/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3R3aXR0ZXIuY29tL2ZyZWRwcmVwZG9nP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.uKIfRxB11DBeCRFVzpIP6BqsTrbumvuqr1MQo_gD40g/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Twitter</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pbnN0YWdyYW0uY29tL2ZyZWR0aGVwcmVwYXJlZG5lc3Nkb2cvP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.y85AXfMYlv-u-xqJCsfimhAOjS7FbKbrJAsbDxLs0EM/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Instagram</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680617600468.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;Today, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment recognizes Fred the Preparedness Dog’s retirement and honors him with the title of emeritus effective June 30.In 2013, “Fred, a German shepherd, had just joined our family. It all started when he jumped into the bathtub,” said Michael McNulty, emergency management director and handler. “My wife eagerly captured all his adorable dog moments with her camera. So, when Fred hopped into the tub to shelter during a weather warning, she quickly snapped a photo and sent it to me. I posted Fred’s photo on social media at work and added a caption: ‘Fred knows where to go in case of severe weather. You should too.’”Fred became the first dog to work with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on preparedness in the country. During his decade of state service, Fred participated in close to 300 events, traveling more than 47 thousand miles and having tens of thousands of interactions with children and families.“Fred has been an asset to public health across Kansas, going above and beyond to spread the word about the importance of being prepared for all types of emergencies,”&nbsp;said KDHE Secretary&nbsp;Janet Stanek.&nbsp;“Fred has also lended comfort and support to the team at KDHE with regular visits to our offices.”Fred’s actions also garnered national attention for many of his activities. He presented at three national conferences, was featured in&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2Jsb2dzLmNkYy5nb3YvcHVibGljaGVhbHRobWF0dGVycy8yMDE2LzA5L2ZyZWQtdGhlLXByZXBhcmVkbmVzcy1kb2cvP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.9zCDPmQDjr_JScVq71nAjFfURrhJgJkEjabswroxoNc/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">CDC</a>&nbsp;and Federal Emergency Management Agency publications and was later named the Kansas Veterinary Medical Association Professional Pet of the Year.At the age of 11, Fred is excited to enjoy his golden years with his best friend, Michael, and the rest of his family. Although he will not be taking event requests, Fred will still enjoy the occasional community event, and his paws will continue to be active on social media. Follow Fred on his social media&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vRnJlZFRoZVByZXBhcmVkbmVzc0RvZ0tkaGU_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.LJozd4xbv-fYz4alAREUMTdqa087jniPyi347osmKE4/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3R3aXR0ZXIuY29tL2ZyZWRwcmVwZG9nP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.uKIfRxB11DBeCRFVzpIP6BqsTrbumvuqr1MQo_gD40g/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Twitter</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pbnN0YWdyYW0uY29tL2ZyZWR0aGVwcmVwYXJlZG5lc3Nkb2cvP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.y85AXfMYlv-u-xqJCsfimhAOjS7FbKbrJAsbDxLs0EM/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Instagram</a>.

Fred the Preparedness Dog retires after 10 years of services

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal accident that occurred just before 3:30p.m. March 31 in Pottawatomie County

According to the sheriff's office, a motorcycle driven by Abbott Mumaw, 17, of Louisville, Kansas, was west bound on Gerard Road, rural Belvue. The driver&nbsp; lost control and crashed. 

 Abbott was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. He was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, according to the sheriff.

The Pottawatomie County EMS, Belvue Fire Department, Pottawatomie County Consolidated Fire and the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office responded to the accident.

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal accident that occurred just before 3:30p.m. March 31 in Pottawatomie CountyAccording to the sheriff's office, a motorcycle driven by Abbott Mumaw, 17, of Louisville, Kansas, was west bound on Gerard Road, rural Belvue. The driver&nbsp; lost control and crashed. Abbott was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. He was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, according to the sheriff.The Pottawatomie County EMS, Belvue Fire Department, Pottawatomie County Consolidated Fire and the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office responded to the accident.

Sheriff IDs Kansas teen who died in motorcycle crash

JUNCTION CITY - To celebrate National Healthcare Decisions Day, Johnson Funeral Home is hosting a seminar to help people plan for their end of life journey.&nbsp;

Thursday, April 13th, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00p.m., Johnson Funeral Home, along with Accord Hospice and Palliative Care and Intrust Bank will assist people to come up with the best End-of-Life Journey.

by BECKY GOFF JC Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680551448441.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JUNCTION CITY - To celebrate National Healthcare Decisions Day, Johnson Funeral Home is hosting a seminar to help people plan for their end of life journey.&nbsp;Thursday, April 13th, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00p.m., Johnson Funeral Home, along with Accord Hospice and Palliative Care and Intrust Bank will assist people to come up with the best End-of-Life Journey.

'End-of-Life' Journey planning to be held April 13

GEARY COUNTY - The Geary County Fire Department is hosting a dedication and Open House for Station 2 located at <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/oyYBPMg5DsJ9h28Q7">7049 E Lyons Creek Rd</a>.

The public is invited to the dedication and open house on April 17th from 5:30 to 6:30 pm.

Station #2 is one of two fire stations built using ARPA(American Rescue Plan Act) funds. The new stations will help Geary County Rural Fire continue to assist the residents of Geary County.

by BECKY GOFF JC Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680547775934.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY - The Geary County Fire Department is hosting a dedication and Open House for Station 2 located at <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/oyYBPMg5DsJ9h28Q7">7049 E Lyons Creek Rd</a>.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2884.3042227318642!2d-96.85613558481548!3d38.9585872795612!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bc4f5dd54a180b%3A0xba2bb51f7392e2ee!2s7049%20E%20Lyons%20Creek%20Rd%2C%20Junction%20City%2C%20KS%2066441!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1680549566361!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>The public is invited to the dedication and open house on April 17th from 5:30 to 6:30 pm.Station #2 is one of two fire stations built using ARPA(American Rescue Plan Act) funds. The new stations will help Geary County Rural Fire continue to assist the residents of Geary County.

Dedication, Open House scheduled for Geary Co. Rural Fire Station #2

DICKINSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a 17-year-old girl that occurred at a home on North Kuney Street in Abilene.

The investigation began January 16, according to a media release from police. An autopsy determined the girl died from fentanyl intoxication.

On Monday, police arrested 18-year-old Daisy L. Skilling on an outstanding warrant from Dickinson County District Court charging her with&nbsp;distribution of a controlled substance causing death, use or possession with intent to use drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana, according to online jail records. She is being held on $150,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680547193087.png" alt="Skilling-photo Dickinson Co." />
 <figcaption>Skilling-photo Dickinson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a 17-year-old girl that occurred at a home on North Kuney Street in Abilene.The investigation began January 16, according to a media release from police. An autopsy determined the girl died from fentanyl intoxication.On Monday, police arrested 18-year-old Daisy L. Skilling on an outstanding warrant from Dickinson County District Court charging her with&nbsp;distribution of a controlled substance causing death, use or possession with intent to use drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana, according to online jail records. She is being held on $150,000 bond.

Kansas woman accused in fentanyl death of 17-year-old

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with an alleged incident that injured an officer.

Just before 2a.m. Sunday, officers observed a fight in progress at Tate's Bar in the 1100 Block of Moro Street in Aggieville between 33-year-old Keith Saniatan of Fort Sill, Oklahoma and staff who were attempting to remove him, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

As officers attempted to place him in custody, Saniatan actively resisted and smashed one officer's hand against a metal door frame with his shoulder. Saniatan was arrest and issued a total bond of $5,000 and is no longer in custody, according to the RCPD.&nbsp; The RCPD released no additional details on the officer's injury.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with an alleged incident that injured an officer.Just before 2a.m. Sunday, officers observed a fight in progress at Tate's Bar in the 1100 Block of Moro Street in Aggieville between 33-year-old Keith Saniatan of Fort Sill, Oklahoma and staff who were attempting to remove him, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.As officers attempted to place him in custody, Saniatan actively resisted and smashed one officer's hand against a metal door frame with his shoulder. Saniatan was arrest and issued a total bond of $5,000 and is no longer in custody, according to the RCPD.&nbsp; The RCPD released no additional details on the officer's injury.

Man accused of altercation with RCPD officer in Aggieville

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Manhattan man on multiple charges after an arrest following a pursuit.

Just after 11p.m. Friday, officers attempted to make a traffic stop on a car driven by 22-year-old Tyreek Toliver near the intersection of Walters Drive and Tuttle Creek Blvd. in Manhattan, according to the RCPD activity report.

Toliver continued to drive northbound on Tuttle Creek Blvd. and turned into a trailer park in the 3000 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd. where he exited the car and began to run east through a residential area. 

He was later located and arrested within the trailer park on requested charges of fleeing by engaging in reckless driving, interference with LEO and operating a motor vehicle without a valid license.

Toliver was issued a total bond of $8,000 and is no longer confined at the time of this report.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Manhattan man on multiple charges after an arrest following a pursuit.Just after 11p.m. Friday, officers attempted to make a traffic stop on a car driven by 22-year-old Tyreek Toliver near the intersection of Walters Drive and Tuttle Creek Blvd. in Manhattan, according to the RCPD activity report.Toliver continued to drive northbound on Tuttle Creek Blvd. and turned into a trailer park in the 3000 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd. where he exited the car and began to run east through a residential area. He was later located and arrested within the trailer park on requested charges of fleeing by engaging in reckless driving, interference with LEO and operating a motor vehicle without a valid license.Toliver was issued a total bond of $8,000 and is no longer confined at the time of this report.

RCPD: 22-year-old arrested after chase in Manhattan

Massive ranch is for sale for $16.7 million

By CINDIY GONZALEZ <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/04/03/dumbbell-in-nebraska-sandhills-gains-spotlight-with-sheer-size-storied-past/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — It’s a $16.7 million ranch story sure to stir some nostalgic memories in the Sandhills of Nebraska.

But even if you’re not from the area, a property called Dumbbell has got to pique curiosity.

The Dumbbell Ranch, which spans a 
whopping 15,500 acres, mostly in Cherry County, is attracting attention 
as it now is up for sale&nbsp; — poised to separate from the family that has 
owned it for more than a century.&nbsp;

The rationale behind that break may 
sound familiar: The younger generation has more pressing interests than 
to oversee the Hyannis area operation.&nbsp;

“They don’t want to ranch, and I’m 
really grateful they were honest with me,” Anne Anderson Bennett said of
 her daughters Margaret and Leatha, who are in their 20s.

Bennett’s only sibling, Gordon 
Anderson, is a “computer guru” who loves his life in Colorado. Their 
parents have passed. At 57, Bennett, divorced for 17 years, is preparing
 to get married again.

“It just really was the right time,” she said of selling.

A less common occurrence, says 
Valentine area broker Mark Johnson of Hall and Hall, is a place like the
 Dumbbell hitting the market.

Johnson, whose business is selling 
ranches, said the property stands out for various reasons, including a 
precious natural resource, water. It sits atop the Ogallala Aquifer, 
which creates shallow lakes and sub-irrigated meadows that he said are 
known to be the headwaters for the Middle Loup River.

“This one has a deeper stamp,” 
Johnson said, noting the ranch’s storied past, its artesian wells, 27 
windmills, eight solar wells, rangeland and watering sites for 
livestock.

He called the Dumbbell — historically
 a 900-head cow/calf operation that’s in the nation’s “top cow county”— 
one of the founding ranches of the Nebraska Sandhills.

Anne’s great-grandfather Gustaf Anderson, an orphaned Swedish immigrant, acquired the area in 1913.

As the history goes, pieced together 
from family and various other sources, the Dumbbell headquarters was 
established in 1887 by Dr. A.J. Plumer, who had hoped the railroad would
 be built through the valley.

He and his wife, Anna, a nurse, constructed a “white mansion” structure to serve as a maternity hospital.&nbsp;

Lore has it that Plumer accidentally 
slammed a hammer on his thumb while building the hospital, exclaiming 
“Only a dumbbell would do that.”

Plumer expanded a cattle operation 
before moving and selling the ranch in 1906. In 1913, Gustaf Anderson 
became sole owner of a property that would grow to about 52,000 acres.

Anderson would make the trip from Red
 Oak, Iowa, to the Dumbbell Ranch at least a dozen times a year by train
 or vehicle —&nbsp; a trip that each generation of Andersons has made over 
the decades.

Three children of Gustaf and his 
wife, Janie, later split the ranch into sections and called them 
Pitchfork, 3 Circles and Dumbbell.&nbsp;

Son Gordon got the Dumbbell and eventually passed it to son Gerald, who then left it to Anne and her brother.

Anne said she has worked the past 
three decades with her dad on the business, traveling as often as she 
could to the ranch. “We love it so much, we’ve been able to make it 
work.”

She lauded the lineup of managers who
 over the generations lived at the site, maintained the operation and 
became engaged in the community.&nbsp;

“They are the ones that live there and have boots on the ground,” she said.

Her dad died in 2016; her mom passed in 2021.

The ranch has received local suitors, as well as interest and visitors from other states, since Johnson<a target="_blank" href="https://hallhall.com/property-for-sale/nebraska/dumbbell-ranch/a095d00002U10JQ/"> started marketing</a> it about a week ago, he said.

Anne said her family is proud to have
 diversified the operation, which includes the Flying A Cattle Company, 
without forsaking the native rangeland. The family feels blessed, she 
said, to “be a small part of the unique Sandhills ecosystem and 
community.”

“It’s dear to our hearts,” said Anne. “We love the Sandhills. Our family loves ranching. It’s time to move on.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554659570.png" alt="The Dumbbell Ranch spans about 15,500 acres, mostly in Nebraska’s Cherry County, known as the nation’s “top cow county.” It is for sale, which means it will have owners outside the Anderson family for first time in over a century. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)" />
 <figcaption>The Dumbbell Ranch spans about 15,500 acres, mostly in Nebraska’s Cherry County, known as the nation’s “top cow county.” It is for sale, which means it will have owners outside the Anderson family for first time in over a century. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Massive ranch is for sale for $16.7 million</h2>By CINDIY GONZALEZ <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/04/03/dumbbell-in-nebraska-sandhills-gains-spotlight-with-sheer-size-storied-past/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — It’s a $16.7 million ranch story sure to stir some nostalgic memories in the Sandhills of Nebraska.But even if you’re not from the area, a property called Dumbbell has got to pique curiosity.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554762652.jpeg" alt="Native range and meadows used by livestock and wildlife habitat cover the ranch. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)" />
 <figcaption>Native range and meadows used by livestock and wildlife habitat cover the ranch. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)</figcaption>
 </figure>The Dumbbell Ranch, which spans a 
whopping 15,500 acres, mostly in Cherry County, is attracting attention 
as it now is up for sale&nbsp; — poised to separate from the family that has 
owned it for more than a century.&nbsp;The rationale behind that break may 
sound familiar: The younger generation has more pressing interests than 
to oversee the Hyannis area operation.&nbsp;“They don’t want to ranch, and I’m 
really grateful they were honest with me,” Anne Anderson Bennett said of
 her daughters Margaret and Leatha, who are in their 20s.Bennett’s only sibling, Gordon 
Anderson, is a “computer guru” who loves his life in Colorado. Their 
parents have passed. At 57, Bennett, divorced for 17 years, is preparing
 to get married again.“It just really was the right time,” she said of selling.A less common occurrence, says 
Valentine area broker Mark Johnson of Hall and Hall, is a place like the
 Dumbbell hitting the market.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554815794.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Johnson, whose business is selling 
ranches, said the property stands out for various reasons, including a 
precious natural resource, water. It sits atop the Ogallala Aquifer, 
which creates shallow lakes and sub-irrigated meadows that he said are 
known to be the headwaters for the Middle Loup River.“This one has a deeper stamp,” 
Johnson said, noting the ranch’s storied past, its artesian wells, 27 
windmills, eight solar wells, rangeland and watering sites for 
livestock.He called the Dumbbell — historically
 a 900-head cow/calf operation that’s in the nation’s “top cow county”— 
one of the founding ranches of the Nebraska Sandhills.Anne’s great-grandfather Gustaf Anderson, an orphaned Swedish immigrant, acquired the area in 1913.As the history goes, pieced together 
from family and various other sources, the Dumbbell headquarters was 
established in 1887 by Dr. A.J. Plumer, who had hoped the railroad would
 be built through the valley.He and his wife, Anna, a nurse, constructed a “white mansion” structure to serve as a maternity hospital.&nbsp;Lore has it that Plumer accidentally 
slammed a hammer on his thumb while building the hospital, exclaiming 
“Only a dumbbell would do that.”Hence, the Dumbbell name.Plumer expanded a cattle operation 
before moving and selling the ranch in 1906. In 1913, Gustaf Anderson 
became sole owner of a property that would grow to about 52,000 acres.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554852926.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Anderson would make the trip from Red
 Oak, Iowa, to the Dumbbell Ranch at least a dozen times a year by train
 or vehicle —&nbsp; a trip that each generation of Andersons has made over 
the decades.Three children of Gustaf and his 
wife, Janie, later split the ranch into sections and called them 
Pitchfork, 3 Circles and Dumbbell.&nbsp;Son Gordon got the Dumbbell and eventually passed it to son Gerald, who then left it to Anne and her brother.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554880289.jpeg" alt="(Courtesy of Hall and Hall, Anderson family)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy of Hall and Hall, Anderson family)</figcaption>
 </figure>Anne said she has worked the past 
three decades with her dad on the business, traveling as often as she 
could to the ranch. “We love it so much, we’ve been able to make it 
work.”She lauded the lineup of managers who
 over the generations lived at the site, maintained the operation and 
became engaged in the community.&nbsp;“They are the ones that live there and have boots on the ground,” she said.Her dad died in 2016; her mom passed in 2021.The ranch has received local suitors, as well as interest and visitors from other states, since Johnson<a target="_blank" href="https://hallhall.com/property-for-sale/nebraska/dumbbell-ranch/a095d00002U10JQ/"> started marketing</a> it about a week ago, he said.Anne said her family is proud to have
 diversified the operation, which includes the Flying A Cattle Company, 
without forsaking the native rangeland. The family feels blessed, she 
said, to “be a small part of the unique Sandhills ecosystem and 
community.”“It’s dear to our hearts,” said Anne. “We love the Sandhills. Our family loves ranching. It’s time to move on.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554917938.png" alt="The Dumbbell Ranch in the Sandhills of Nebraska. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)" />
 <figcaption>The Dumbbell Ranch in the Sandhills of Nebraska. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)</figcaption>
 </figure>

‘Dumbbell’ in Nebraska Sandhills gains spotlight with sheer size, storied past

A fire weather watch remind in effect for the Flint Hills into Tuesday night, the National Weather Service in Topeka warned.

Winds are expected to remain from the north through Monday nigh, sustained at 10 to 15 mph and gusting to 25 mph. The winds will shift from the south by Tuesday afternoon, increasing to 20 to 25 mph and gusting up to 40 mph.&nbsp;

A burn ban in is effect for Riley and Geary counties.

A projected Tuesday high in the mid-80s, couple with low humidity and continued dry conditions, will drastically increase the chance of wildfires.

There is a 20 percent chance of rain in the early morning hours Wednesday, followed by a significant cooldown. The high Wednesday is only expected to reach the low-50s, with an overnight low in the mid- to upper-20s.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680528493698.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A fire weather watch remind in effect for the Flint Hills into Tuesday night, the National Weather Service in Topeka warned.Winds are expected to remain from the north through Monday nigh, sustained at 10 to 15 mph and gusting to 25 mph. The winds will shift from the south by Tuesday afternoon, increasing to 20 to 25 mph and gusting up to 40 mph.&nbsp;A burn ban in is effect for Riley and Geary counties.A projected Tuesday high in the mid-80s, couple with low humidity and continued dry conditions, will drastically increase the chance of wildfires.There is a 20 percent chance of rain in the early morning hours Wednesday, followed by a significant cooldown. The high Wednesday is only expected to reach the low-50s, with an overnight low in the mid- to upper-20s.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Fire Weather Watch remains in effect on Tuesday through 11 PM CDT. Expect southerly winds gusting to 50 mph as they shift to the west during the evening. This combined with low RH results in critical fire weather conditions where fires can spread rapidly. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/4bvJnc0zlZ">pic.twitter.com/4bvJnc0zlZ</a>&mdash; NWS Topeka (@NWSTopeka) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSTopeka/status/1642855508712525825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Fire weather watch in warm, windy Flint Hills

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/2023/4/1680528645658.jpeg" alt="Robert Gerard Enriquez, Probation Violation, arrested 4/2" />
 <figcaption>Robert Gerard Enriquez, Probation Violation, arrested 4/2</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680528709167.jpeg" alt="Amanda S McMillon, Probation Violation, Outside warrant x2; arrested 4/2" />
 <figcaption>Amanda S McMillon, Probation Violation, Outside warrant x2; arrested 4/2</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 April 3

JUNCTION CITY — Local internet provider Twin Valley recently received the Eldon L. Hoyle Award for its Economic Development contributions at the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner and Awards Showcase, the company announced in a news release.

Eldon L. Hoyle, for whom the award is named, died in 2011 but left a remarkable legacy in his hometown of Junction City. Hoyle believed strongly in his community and held numerous elected and volunteer positions over the years. An exemplary leader in both his community and the economic development field, the award honors his many contributions to Junction City. Daughter Shelley Hoyle Kite presented the award, accepted by Twin Valley’s Chief Customer Officer Eric Tabor.

"We are honored to receive this award and be recognized in such an incredible community so dedicated to keeping the Junction City economy moving forward," Tabor said. "Thank you to our many local partners and the chamber of commerce for the leadership, engagement and support that has been a pillar of our success here."

The company is investing more than $20 million into the community to provide fiber internet service to Junction City businesses and residents. This infrastructure improvement is essential to accelerating community revitalization, as it enables the community to attract and retain businesses, families and talent in the area. It sets the stage for exponential growth, expanding remote work opportunities, fostering innovation, and fueling new business formation. Construction has an immediate and ongoing economic impact, as it brings dozens of workers into Junction City on a daily basis.

For Twin Valley, community support goes beyond the infrastructure investment. Residents who qualify for the federal Affordable Connectivity Program can get internet service completely free of charge, with a $30 ACP benefit in combination with Twin Valley’s supplemental financial assistance program. Reliable internet access is a necessity for the modern household's quality of life. Programs of this kind are a testament to the company’s pledge of providing customers with the most reliable network at the best value, all while creating real opportunities for generational change.

Residential installations are underway, with new neighborhoods to be turned up this spring. Residents can influence the order in which areas are built by signing up for service. Twin Valley offers simple pricing, and no contract is required for residential service. Plans start at under $50 for 300 Mbps symmetrical, with upgraded packages providing up to 2 Gbps symmetrical.

An interactive map and all up-to-date information is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://twinvalley.net/jcfiber">twinvalley.net/jcfiber</a>. For new service inquiries in Junction City, there is also a dedicated phone line available at 888.961.6144. Information about financial assistance programs is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://twinvalley.net/assistance">twinvalley.net/assistance</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680122723606.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JUNCTION CITY — Local internet provider Twin Valley recently received the Eldon L. Hoyle Award for its Economic Development contributions at the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner and Awards Showcase, the company announced in a news release.Eldon L. Hoyle, for whom the award is named, died in 2011 but left a remarkable legacy in his hometown of Junction City. Hoyle believed strongly in his community and held numerous elected and volunteer positions over the years. An exemplary leader in both his community and the economic development field, the award honors his many contributions to Junction City. Daughter Shelley Hoyle Kite presented the award, accepted by Twin Valley’s Chief Customer Officer Eric Tabor."We are honored to receive this award and be recognized in such an incredible community so dedicated to keeping the Junction City economy moving forward," Tabor said. "Thank you to our many local partners and the chamber of commerce for the leadership, engagement and support that has been a pillar of our success here."The company is investing more than $20 million into the community to provide fiber internet service to Junction City businesses and residents. This infrastructure improvement is essential to accelerating community revitalization, as it enables the community to attract and retain businesses, families and talent in the area. It sets the stage for exponential growth, expanding remote work opportunities, fostering innovation, and fueling new business formation. Construction has an immediate and ongoing economic impact, as it brings dozens of workers into Junction City on a daily basis.For Twin Valley, community support goes beyond the infrastructure investment. Residents who qualify for the federal Affordable Connectivity Program can get internet service completely free of charge, with a $30 ACP benefit in combination with Twin Valley’s supplemental financial assistance program. Reliable internet access is a necessity for the modern household's quality of life. Programs of this kind are a testament to the company’s pledge of providing customers with the most reliable network at the best value, all while creating real opportunities for generational change.Residential installations are underway, with new neighborhoods to be turned up this spring. Residents can influence the order in which areas are built by signing up for service. Twin Valley offers simple pricing, and no contract is required for residential service. Plans start at under $50 for 300 Mbps symmetrical, with upgraded packages providing up to 2 Gbps symmetrical.An interactive map and all up-to-date information is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://twinvalley.net/jcfiber">twinvalley.net/jcfiber</a>. For new service inquiries in Junction City, there is also a dedicated phone line available at 888.961.6144. Information about financial assistance programs is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://twinvalley.net/assistance">twinvalley.net/assistance</a>.

Twin Valley receives economic development award for Junction City fiber build

From the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069239108579">Abilene Police Dept. Facebook page</a>:

In an effort to both prevent and solve crime, the Abilene Police Department has partnered with Flock Safety to install two automated license plate readers (ALPRs) in Abilene.

These license plate readers have the ability to send real-time alerts to law enforcement when a stolen car or known wanted suspect from a national crime database passes by a camera. They can also send alerts if a vehicle associated with a missing person in AMBER or Silver Alert is detected.

Each ALPR inquiry requires a justification, and the data is never sold or shared with third parties. The cameras will be used to solve and reduce property and violent crime and are not intended for minor traffic or parking violations.

Flock Safety cameras are utilized by over 2,000 law enforcement agencies in 42 states. Law enforcement agencies have reported crime reductions of up to 70% when deploying Flock Safety in their communities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

From the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069239108579">Abilene Police Dept. Facebook page</a>:In an effort to both prevent and solve crime, the Abilene Police Department has partnered with Flock Safety to install two automated license plate readers (ALPRs) in Abilene.These license plate readers have the ability to send real-time alerts to law enforcement when a stolen car or known wanted suspect from a national crime database passes by a camera. They can also send alerts if a vehicle associated with a missing person in AMBER or Silver Alert is detected.Each ALPR inquiry requires a justification, and the data is never sold or shared with third parties. The cameras will be used to solve and reduce property and violent crime and are not intended for minor traffic or parking violations.Flock Safety cameras are utilized by over 2,000 law enforcement agencies in 42 states. Law enforcement agencies have reported crime reductions of up to 70% when deploying Flock Safety in their communities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Abilene Police Department installs license plate readers

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Sunday in Wabaunsee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Polaris RZR driven by Lester R. Johnson, 26, Alma, was eastbound in the 31100 Block McFarland Road one mile southwest of McFarland.

The driver failed to negotiate a left curve. The UTV entered the south ditch, over-turned and the passenger identified as Ashley M. Seidl, 23. Alma, was ejected.

&nbsp;Seidl was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to the&nbsp;Shawnee County Coroner's Office.&nbsp; EMS transported Johnson to Stormont Vail. They were not wearing helmets, according to the KHP.

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Sunday in Wabaunsee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Polaris RZR driven by Lester R. Johnson, 26, Alma, was eastbound in the 31100 Block McFarland Road one mile southwest of McFarland.The driver failed to negotiate a left curve. The UTV entered the south ditch, over-turned and the passenger identified as Ashley M. Seidl, 23. Alma, was ejected.&nbsp;Seidl was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to the&nbsp;Shawnee County Coroner's Office.&nbsp; EMS transported Johnson to Stormont Vail. They were not wearing helmets, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dies after ejected in UTV accident

Junction City High School junior Ezekiel Witt travelled to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, for the USA Wrestling Folkstyle Nationals this weekend.

Witt won the 106 lbs weight class, beating Brayden Teunissen from Illinois in the finals.

by BECKY GOFF JC Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680457249366.jpeg" alt="submitted picture" />
 <figcaption>submitted picture</figcaption>
 </figure>Junction City High School junior Ezekiel Witt travelled to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, for the USA Wrestling Folkstyle Nationals this weekend.Witt won the 106 lbs weight class, beating Brayden Teunissen from Illinois in the finals.

JC's Witt wins at USA Wrestling Folkstyle Nationals

Courtesy of Kansas State Athletics

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Head coach&nbsp;Jerome Tang&nbsp;has been selected as the winner of the 2023 Werner Ladder Naismith Men’s College Coach of the Year, as announced by the Atlanta Tipoff Club at its annual Final Four Awards Brunch at the Ballroom at Bayou Place in Houston, Texas on Sunday (April 2).

Tang was chosen for the award over a finalist list that included Purdue’s&nbsp;Matt Painter, Houston’s&nbsp;Kelvin Sampson&nbsp;and Marquette’s&nbsp;Shaka Smart.

Tang becomes the first K-State head coach to earn the Naismith coaching honor and just the third to be selected as National Coach of the Year, joining&nbsp;Fred “Tex” Winter&nbsp;who was chosen for the honor by United Press International (UPI) in 1958 and&nbsp;Jack Hartman&nbsp;who was named the NABC Coach of the Year in 1980.

Overall, Tang is just the fourth head coach at a Big 12 institution to earn the Naismith coaching accolade since it was first awarded in 1987, joining a trio of Kansas head coaches in&nbsp;Larry Brown&nbsp;(1988),&nbsp;Roy Williams&nbsp;(1997) and&nbsp;Bill Self&nbsp;(2012). He is one of three current Big 12 coaches to have won the award, joining Self and TCU’s&nbsp;Jaime Dixon, who was selected for the honor while at Pittsburgh in 2009.

“I’m honored and blessed to receive the Werner Ladder Naismith Men’s College Coach of the Year Award,” said Tang. “There have been a lot of great coaching jobs this season and to be recognized among them is truly a humbling experience for me. I want to congratulate the other finalists – Coach (Matt) Painter, Coach (Kelvin) Sampson, Coach (Shaka) Smart for their tremendous years.

“I want to first thank my Lord and savior Jesus Christ for all the blessings in my life. I would not be where I'm at right now if it wasn't for his faithfulness in my life and guidance.

“There are so many people to mention who have put me in this position. I want to thank our players and staff. I can’t begin to express my appreciation to them for all their hard work and sacrifice this season. We started with Markquis (Nowell) and Ish (Massoud) and it grew to 15 players who became brothers on and off the court, enabling us to go from a team picked last in the Big 12 to one who won 26 games and advanced to the Elite Eight. I will always be indebted to them.

“I have the best coaching staff in America, from associate head coach&nbsp;Ulric Maligi&nbsp;to assistant coaches&nbsp;Jareem Dowling&nbsp;and&nbsp;Rodney Perry&nbsp;to my chief of staff&nbsp;Marco Borne&nbsp;to director of operations&nbsp;Bailey Bachamp&nbsp;to director of player development&nbsp;Austin Carpenter&nbsp;to director of video operations&nbsp;Anthony Winchester, director of strategies&nbsp;Kevin Sutton, volunteer analyst&nbsp;Al Grushkin, strength coach&nbsp;Phil Baier, athletic trainer&nbsp;Luke Sauber&nbsp;to all of our graduate assistant and student managers. I’m blessed and honored that I get to live life with these incredible men and women every day.

“I also want to thank our university president&nbsp;Dr. Richard Linton, athletic director&nbsp;Gene Taylor&nbsp;and executive associate AD&nbsp;Casey Scott&nbsp;for giving me the opportunity to be at K-State. I’m fortunate every day to be at such a special place. I’m excited about the future with their support.

“I’m not here today without the love, support and sacrifice of my family. I want to thank my parents,&nbsp;Paul&nbsp;and&nbsp;Bano Tang, my brother&nbsp;Mark, sister&nbsp;Kim, my wife,&nbsp;Careylyen, our children&nbsp;Seven&nbsp;and&nbsp;Aylyn&nbsp;as well as my in-loves,&nbsp;Calvin&nbsp;and&nbsp;Carolyn Carter.

“I have been fortunate to be around quality people throughout my life.&nbsp;Dr. Jennifer Cooper&nbsp;gave me my first coaching job back at Heritage Christian Academy.&nbsp;Scott (Drew)&nbsp;gave me the opportunity to coach in college at Baylor, where I was influenced by coaches like&nbsp;Matthew Driscoll,&nbsp;Paul Mills,&nbsp;Grant McCasland,&nbsp;Alvin Brooks III,&nbsp;John Jakus&nbsp;and&nbsp;Bill Petersen&nbsp;and countless players.

“I share this tremendous honor with all these individuals. I’m truly blessed.”

Tang has been named a finalist for several National Coach of the Year honors, including the Joe B. Hall Award (top first-year Division I head coach), the Ben Jobe Award (top Division I minority coach) and the Jim Phelan Award (Division I Coach of the Year). He has also been District Coach of the Year by the NABC and USBWA.

Tang was the runner-up for The Associated Press’ National Coach of the Year, finishing with 13 votes behind Smart, who garnered 24 from a national media panel of 58 voters.

Picked 10th in the preseason Big 12 poll and armed with just two returning players, Tang guided the Wildcats to a 26-10 overall record and a spot in the Elite Eight, which was the 13th&nbsp;in school history and the first since 2017-18. The 26 wins are the third-most in school history, trailing the school-record 29 in 2009-10 and the 27 in 2012-13, and just the eighth 25-win campaign and first since 2017-18. His win total was the second-most by a first-year Division I head coach, trailing Duke’s&nbsp;Jon Scheyer&nbsp;(27-9).

Tang and Texas’&nbsp;Rodney Terry&nbsp;were the only first-year Division I head coaches to advance to his team to the Elite Eight in 2022-23. Overall, Tang is the 11th&nbsp;first-year head coach to direct his team to Elite Eight since 1996-97, while he is just the fourth first-time head coach, joining North Carolina’s&nbsp;Bill Guthridge&nbsp;in 1997-98 and&nbsp;Hubert Davis&nbsp;in 2021-22 and Kent State’s&nbsp;Stan Heath&nbsp;in 2001-02.

Tang was the consensus Big 12 Coach of the Year, earning the honor from both the league coaches and AP after helping K-State rise from being picked last in the preseason Big 12 poll to finishing in a tie for third place with an 11-7 record. He is the&nbsp;seventh head coach in school history to earn conference Coach of the Year honors, including the second (Bruce Weber&nbsp;in 2013) to win the honor in his first season.

Tang was selected as the 25th&nbsp;head men’s basketball coach at K-State on March 21, 2022, after serving as the one of the chief architects in helping build Baylor into a national powerhouse in his 19 seasons as an assistant and associate head coach from 2003 to 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679443663983.jpeg" alt="AP Photo/John Bazemore" />
 <figcaption>AP Photo/John Bazemore</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Kansas State AthleticsMANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Head coach&nbsp;Jerome Tang&nbsp;has been selected as the winner of the 2023 Werner Ladder Naismith Men’s College Coach of the Year, as announced by the Atlanta Tipoff Club at its annual Final Four Awards Brunch at the Ballroom at Bayou Place in Houston, Texas on Sunday (April 2).Tang was chosen for the award over a finalist list that included Purdue’s&nbsp;Matt Painter, Houston’s&nbsp;Kelvin Sampson&nbsp;and Marquette’s&nbsp;Shaka Smart.Tang becomes the first K-State head coach to earn the Naismith coaching honor and just the third to be selected as National Coach of the Year, joining&nbsp;Fred “Tex” Winter&nbsp;who was chosen for the honor by United Press International (UPI) in 1958 and&nbsp;Jack Hartman&nbsp;who was named the NABC Coach of the Year in 1980.Overall, Tang is just the fourth head coach at a Big 12 institution to earn the Naismith coaching accolade since it was first awarded in 1987, joining a trio of Kansas head coaches in&nbsp;Larry Brown&nbsp;(1988),&nbsp;Roy Williams&nbsp;(1997) and&nbsp;Bill Self&nbsp;(2012). He is one of three current Big 12 coaches to have won the award, joining Self and TCU’s&nbsp;Jaime Dixon, who was selected for the honor while at Pittsburgh in 2009.“I’m honored and blessed to receive the Werner Ladder Naismith Men’s College Coach of the Year Award,” said Tang. “There have been a lot of great coaching jobs this season and to be recognized among them is truly a humbling experience for me. I want to congratulate the other finalists – Coach (Matt) Painter, Coach (Kelvin) Sampson, Coach (Shaka) Smart for their tremendous years.“I want to first thank my Lord and savior Jesus Christ for all the blessings in my life. I would not be where I'm at right now if it wasn't for his faithfulness in my life and guidance.“There are so many people to mention who have put me in this position. I want to thank our players and staff. I can’t begin to express my appreciation to them for all their hard work and sacrifice this season. We started with Markquis (Nowell) and Ish (Massoud) and it grew to 15 players who became brothers on and off the court, enabling us to go from a team picked last in the Big 12 to one who won 26 games and advanced to the Elite Eight. I will always be indebted to them.“I have the best coaching staff in America, from associate head coach&nbsp;Ulric Maligi&nbsp;to assistant coaches&nbsp;Jareem Dowling&nbsp;and&nbsp;Rodney Perry&nbsp;to my chief of staff&nbsp;Marco Borne&nbsp;to director of operations&nbsp;Bailey Bachamp&nbsp;to director of player development&nbsp;Austin Carpenter&nbsp;to director of video operations&nbsp;Anthony Winchester, director of strategies&nbsp;Kevin Sutton, volunteer analyst&nbsp;Al Grushkin, strength coach&nbsp;Phil Baier, athletic trainer&nbsp;Luke Sauber&nbsp;to all of our graduate assistant and student managers. I’m blessed and honored that I get to live life with these incredible men and women every day.“I also want to thank our university president&nbsp;Dr. Richard Linton, athletic director&nbsp;Gene Taylor&nbsp;and executive associate AD&nbsp;Casey Scott&nbsp;for giving me the opportunity to be at K-State. I’m fortunate every day to be at such a special place. I’m excited about the future with their support.“I’m not here today without the love, support and sacrifice of my family. I want to thank my parents,&nbsp;Paul&nbsp;and&nbsp;Bano Tang, my brother&nbsp;Mark, sister&nbsp;Kim, my wife,&nbsp;Careylyen, our children&nbsp;Seven&nbsp;and&nbsp;Aylyn&nbsp;as well as my in-loves,&nbsp;Calvin&nbsp;and&nbsp;Carolyn Carter.“I have been fortunate to be around quality people throughout my life.&nbsp;Dr. Jennifer Cooper&nbsp;gave me my first coaching job back at Heritage Christian Academy.&nbsp;Scott (Drew)&nbsp;gave me the opportunity to coach in college at Baylor, where I was influenced by coaches like&nbsp;Matthew Driscoll,&nbsp;Paul Mills,&nbsp;Grant McCasland,&nbsp;Alvin Brooks III,&nbsp;John Jakus&nbsp;and&nbsp;Bill Petersen&nbsp;and countless players.“I share this tremendous honor with all these individuals. I’m truly blessed.”Tang has been named a finalist for several National Coach of the Year honors, including the Joe B. Hall Award (top first-year Division I head coach), the Ben Jobe Award (top Division I minority coach) and the Jim Phelan Award (Division I Coach of the Year). He has also been District Coach of the Year by the NABC and USBWA.Tang was the runner-up for The Associated Press’ National Coach of the Year, finishing with 13 votes behind Smart, who garnered 24 from a national media panel of 58 voters.Picked 10th in the preseason Big 12 poll and armed with just two returning players, Tang guided the Wildcats to a 26-10 overall record and a spot in the Elite Eight, which was the 13th&nbsp;in school history and the first since 2017-18. The 26 wins are the third-most in school history, trailing the school-record 29 in 2009-10 and the 27 in 2012-13, and just the eighth 25-win campaign and first since 2017-18. His win total was the second-most by a first-year Division I head coach, trailing Duke’s&nbsp;Jon Scheyer&nbsp;(27-9).Tang and Texas’&nbsp;Rodney Terry&nbsp;were the only first-year Division I head coaches to advance to his team to the Elite Eight in 2022-23. Overall, Tang is the 11th&nbsp;first-year head coach to direct his team to Elite Eight since 1996-97, while he is just the fourth first-time head coach, joining North Carolina’s&nbsp;Bill Guthridge&nbsp;in 1997-98 and&nbsp;Hubert Davis&nbsp;in 2021-22 and Kent State’s&nbsp;Stan Heath&nbsp;in 2001-02.Tang was the consensus Big 12 Coach of the Year, earning the honor from both the league coaches and AP after helping K-State rise from being picked last in the preseason Big 12 poll to finishing in a tie for third place with an 11-7 record. He is the&nbsp;seventh head coach in school history to earn conference Coach of the Year honors, including the second (Bruce Weber&nbsp;in 2013) to win the honor in his first season.Tang was selected as the 25th&nbsp;head men’s basketball coach at K-State on March 21, 2022, after serving as the one of the chief architects in helping build Baylor into a national powerhouse in his 19 seasons as an assistant and associate head coach from 2003 to 2022.

KSU's Tang tabbed as Naismith National Coach of the Year

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/2023/4/1680451036644.jpeg" alt="Philip Governor Locklear, Theft &lt;$1,500 Pocket picking; arrested 4/1" />
 <figcaption>Philip Governor Locklear, Theft &lt;$1,500 Pocket picking; arrested 4/1</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 April 2

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University is recognizing 
five outstanding Kansas high school science teachers with the inaugural 
Kansas State University High School Science Teacher of the Year Awards.&nbsp; The awards highlight and reward inspirational and impactful high school science teachers throughout the state. The <a href="https://www.k-state.edu/chem/">chemistry</a>, <a href="https://www.k-state.edu/geology/">geology</a> and <a href="https://www.phys.ksu.edu/">physics</a> departments in K-State's <a href="https://artsci.k-state.edu/">College of Arts and Sciences</a> selected the five award recipients.

According to Pamela Kempton, professor and head of geology, students 
majoring in chemistry, geology or physics were asked to name the science
 teachers who inspired them to study science or made a difference in 
their growth and development. The nominees were then invited to apply, 
and a committee selected the finalists.]

The following high school teachers are recipients of the Kansas State University High School Science Teacher of the Year Awards:

• Science Teacher of the Year in chemistry: Nikki Chamberlain, gifted
 facilitator and former longtime chemistry teacher at Salina South High 
School, Salina.&nbsp; • Science Teachers of the Year in geology: Staci Cavanaugh, earth and space science teacher at Olathe North High School, Olathe, and Mariah Ramos, integrated science teacher at Spring Hill High School, Spring Hill.&nbsp; • Science Teachers of the Year in physics: Drew Smith, physics teacher at Olathe Northwest High School, Olathe, and Mitchell Spade, physics teacher at Shawnee Heights High School, Tecumseh.

"High school teachers scarcely get the recognition they deserve, and 
the work they do is critically important to the state and to the 
educational and scholarly mission of Kansas State University," said 
Christer Aakeröy, university distinguished professor and head of 
chemistry.

The award recipients, their nominators and a few of their current 
students are invited to a recognition luncheon March 31 on the Manhattan
 campus. Each teacher will be presented a $500 cash award, a certificate
 and an artistic piece of glassware custom-made by the university's 
scientific glassblower, Jim Hodgson. The visitors will also get a 
personalized tour of the campus, including some laboratories.

"The past few years have been particularly challenging for our high 
school educators," said Tim Bolton, William and Joan Porter professor 
and head of physics. "So, we wanted to acknowledge their hard work and 
recognize those extraordinary high school teachers who inspire students 
to go into sciences."

The <a href="https://artsci.k-state.edu/">College of Arts and Sciences</a>
 at K-State offers undergraduate and graduate degrees spanning the 
natural and quantitative sciences, social and behavioral sciences, and 
arts and humanities, along with research opportunities, hands-on 
experiences and robust advising to prepare students for successful 
careers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680104557131.jpeg" alt="Staci Cavanaugh" />
 <figcaption>Staci Cavanaugh</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State NewsMANHATTAN — Kansas State University is recognizing 
five outstanding Kansas high school science teachers with the inaugural 
Kansas State University High School Science Teacher of the Year Awards.&nbsp; The awards highlight and reward inspirational and impactful high school science teachers throughout the state. The <a href="https://www.k-state.edu/chem/">chemistry</a>, <a href="https://www.k-state.edu/geology/">geology</a> and <a href="https://www.phys.ksu.edu/">physics</a> departments in K-State's <a href="https://artsci.k-state.edu/">College of Arts and Sciences</a> selected the five award recipients.According to Pamela Kempton, professor and head of geology, students 
majoring in chemistry, geology or physics were asked to name the science
 teachers who inspired them to study science or made a difference in 
their growth and development. The nominees were then invited to apply, 
and a committee selected the finalists.]<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680104581614.jpeg" alt="Nikki Chamberlain" />
 <figcaption>Nikki Chamberlain</figcaption>
 </figure>The following high school teachers are recipients of the Kansas State University High School Science Teacher of the Year Awards:• Science Teacher of the Year in chemistry: Nikki Chamberlain, gifted
 facilitator and former longtime chemistry teacher at Salina South High 
School, Salina.&nbsp; • Science Teachers of the Year in geology: Staci Cavanaugh, earth and space science teacher at Olathe North High School, Olathe, and Mariah Ramos, integrated science teacher at Spring Hill High School, Spring Hill.&nbsp; • Science Teachers of the Year in physics: Drew Smith, physics teacher at Olathe Northwest High School, Olathe, and Mitchell Spade, physics teacher at Shawnee Heights High School, Tecumseh.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680104604615.jpeg" alt="Mariah Ramos" />
 <figcaption>Mariah Ramos</figcaption>
 </figure>"High school teachers scarcely get the recognition they deserve, and 
the work they do is critically important to the state and to the 
educational and scholarly mission of Kansas State University," said 
Christer Aakeröy, university distinguished professor and head of 
chemistry.The award recipients, their nominators and a few of their current 
students are invited to a recognition luncheon March 31 on the Manhattan
 campus. Each teacher will be presented a $500 cash award, a certificate
 and an artistic piece of glassware custom-made by the university's 
scientific glassblower, Jim Hodgson. The visitors will also get a 
personalized tour of the campus, including some laboratories.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680104626266.jpeg" alt="Drew Smith" />
 <figcaption>Drew Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>"The past few years have been particularly challenging for our high 
school educators," said Tim Bolton, William and Joan Porter professor 
and head of physics. "So, we wanted to acknowledge their hard work and 
recognize those extraordinary high school teachers who inspire students 
to go into sciences."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680104651302.jpeg" alt="Mitchell Spade" />
 <figcaption>Mitchell Spade</figcaption>
 </figure>The <a href="https://artsci.k-state.edu/">College of Arts and Sciences</a>
 at K-State offers undergraduate and graduate degrees spanning the 
natural and quantitative sciences, social and behavioral sciences, and 
arts and humanities, along with research opportunities, hands-on 
experiences and robust advising to prepare students for successful 
careers.

K-State recognizes High School Science Teachers of the Year

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 22, in Junction City.

Unused or expired prescription medication can be dropped off at the Junction
 City Police Department, 210 E. Ninth, for safe disposal.&nbsp;

For more information on items that will be accepted, click <a href="https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/index.html?fbclid=IwAR2k3EwuQjhBqXD4e1jko-THP_LQ-lLUY36vPQyzt40l184mLMVnu9Rcq5E">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680102700201.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 22, in Junction City.Unused or expired prescription medication can be dropped off at the Junction
 City Police Department, 210 E. Ninth, for safe disposal.&nbsp;For more information on items that will be accepted, click <a href="https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/index.html?fbclid=IwAR2k3EwuQjhBqXD4e1jko-THP_LQ-lLUY36vPQyzt40l184mLMVnu9Rcq5E">HERE</a>.

Prescription drug take back day scheduled in April

If passed into law, can Education Saving Accounts and tax credit vouchers withstand a constitutional challenge?&nbsp;&nbsp; That’s a question rolling around the state house.&nbsp;

The concern, at this point, is speculation since these two school choice bills have yet to go to Governor Kelly for her signature or veto.

The ESA bill currently creates&nbsp;a fund for families to use taxpayer dollars for private and homeschooling expenses. In its first year, the program would be available to public school students testing at the lowest grade level or receiving free or reduced-price lunch.&nbsp; Eventually families of four making $180,000 per year or more would be eligible.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The tax credit bill enlarges the current tax credit scholarship fund.&nbsp; Fully implemented, it would give about $5,000 per qualifying student per year to attend any accredited or unaccredited private school or use for other educational expenses.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donors to the scholarship fund could apply for a 70 percent tax credit.&nbsp; Currently the fund is limited to low income, low performing students but the 2023 bill would expand incrementally to include almost all student applicants regardless of parent’s income, including students who always have attended a private school or been homeschooled.&nbsp;

Currently 11 states allow various types of ESAs, and 20 states allow tax credit scholarships.&nbsp;

Do ESAs that directly fund private schools with public tax dollars and scholarships that indirectly reduce education funds through tax credits violate the Kansas Constitution?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tax Credit scholarships may more easily withstand legal challenges because they are funded by donations.&nbsp; The loss to the state comes from fewer tax dollars collected due to the refundable tax credits.&nbsp; ESAs are directly funded from tax dollars budgeted for education.&nbsp; Both bills siphon public funds from public schools.

Here are reasons for concern: &nbsp;First, the Kansas Constitution creates a single system of common schools.<a></a>

Article 6: (1) “The legislature shall provide for a state board of education which shall have general supervision of public schools, educational institutions and all the educational interests of the state.”

The proposed bills create two separate systems—one governed by the state board of education and a new system governed by the Kansas treasurer to administer the scholarships and ESAs.&nbsp;

Second, Article 6:&nbsp; 2&nbsp;(a) states, “The state board of education shall perform such other duties as may be provided by law.”

Currently there are no laws that direct the state board of education to oversee schools other than public schools.&nbsp; Moreover, proponents of the bills advocate a main value is that funds would go to schools governed by the state treasurer not the state board of education.

Third, the Kansas constitution is clear.&nbsp;&nbsp;Article 6: 6 (c) “No religious sect or sects shall control any part of the public educational funds.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593719779701.jpeg" alt="Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education." />
 <figcaption>Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.</figcaption>
 </figure>If passed into law, can Education Saving Accounts and tax credit vouchers withstand a constitutional challenge?&nbsp;&nbsp; That’s a question rolling around the state house.&nbsp;The concern, at this point, is speculation since these two school choice bills have yet to go to Governor Kelly for her signature or veto.The ESA bill currently creates&nbsp;a fund for families to use taxpayer dollars for private and homeschooling expenses. In its first year, the program would be available to public school students testing at the lowest grade level or receiving free or reduced-price lunch.&nbsp; Eventually families of four making $180,000 per year or more would be eligible.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The tax credit bill enlarges the current tax credit scholarship fund.&nbsp; Fully implemented, it would give about $5,000 per qualifying student per year to attend any accredited or unaccredited private school or use for other educational expenses.&nbsp;&nbsp;Donors to the scholarship fund could apply for a 70 percent tax credit.&nbsp; Currently the fund is limited to low income, low performing students but the 2023 bill would expand incrementally to include almost all student applicants regardless of parent’s income, including students who always have attended a private school or been homeschooled.&nbsp;Currently 11 states allow various types of ESAs, and 20 states allow tax credit scholarships.&nbsp;Do ESAs that directly fund private schools with public tax dollars and scholarships that indirectly reduce education funds through tax credits violate the Kansas Constitution?&nbsp;&nbsp;Tax Credit scholarships may more easily withstand legal challenges because they are funded by donations.&nbsp; The loss to the state comes from fewer tax dollars collected due to the refundable tax credits.&nbsp; ESAs are directly funded from tax dollars budgeted for education.&nbsp; Both bills siphon public funds from public schools.Here are reasons for concern: &nbsp;First, the Kansas Constitution creates a single system of common schools.<a></a>Article 6: (1) “The legislature shall provide for a state board of education which shall have general supervision of public schools, educational institutions and all the educational interests of the state.”The proposed bills create two separate systems—one governed by the state board of education and a new system governed by the Kansas treasurer to administer the scholarships and ESAs.&nbsp;Second, Article 6:&nbsp; 2&nbsp;(a) states, “The state board of education shall perform such other duties as may be provided by law.”Currently there are no laws that direct the state board of education to oversee schools other than public schools.&nbsp; Moreover, proponents of the bills advocate a main value is that funds would go to schools governed by the state treasurer not the state board of education.Third, the Kansas constitution is clear.&nbsp;&nbsp;Article 6: 6 (c) “No religious sect or sects shall control any part of the public educational funds.”Recently the U. S. Supreme Court ruled&nbsp;in &nbsp;<a href="https://www.scotusblog.com/case-files/cases/carson-v-makin/" target="_blank">Carson v. Makin</a>&nbsp; to require states to fund private religious schools if the states fund any other private schools.Chief Justice John Roberts wrote in his majority opinion that the ruling does not require states to fund private schools—but once they do,&nbsp;religious schools can’t be excluded.&nbsp;In January an Ohio lawsuit challenging the state’s voucher program moved forward to Franklin County Court.&nbsp; More than 100 school districts signed onto the lawsuit advocating a&nbsp;"secure"&nbsp;and single "system of common schools.”&nbsp;Who among us would want another long, costly constitutional confrontation over Kansas schools?&nbsp; &nbsp;Nevertheless, this battle may be ongoing well into the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.