Mark your calendars for Winter Break Skate at Spin City!

Winter Break Skates will be December 23rd and 26th from noon-4p.m. each day and January 2nd and 3rd from noon-4p.m. Admission is $7.00 per skater.

 On the December 23rd skate, they are hosting a special skate with Santa! Staff will be handing out candy canes, playing Christmas music and doing prize drawings every hour.

Mark your calendars for Winter Break Skate at Spin City!Winter Break Skates will be December 23rd and 26th from noon-4p.m. each day and January 2nd and 3rd from noon-4p.m. Admission is $7.00 per skater. On the December 23rd skate, they are hosting a special skate with Santa! Staff will be handing out candy canes, playing Christmas music and doing prize drawings every hour.

Spin City will host four days of Winter Break Skate 

-- Geary County Commissioners announced that they will interview three to five candidates for the job of Director of the Geary County Convention and Visitor's Bureau. Interviews will be conducted in the first week of January.

The CVB Director job has been empty since Nov. 13, when the former CVB Director was let go. Rick Dykstra, a Marketing Specialist with the CVB is still on staff.&nbsp;

-- Geary County Commissioners Keith Ascher and Trish Giordano decided they will not hire a new Public Works Director until Kathy Tremont, a new commissioner comes on board in mid-January. Former Public Works Director&nbsp;Corey Trumpp retired on Dec. 9.&nbsp;&nbsp;

-- The Geary County Commission will not hold a meeting on Monday, Dec. 23. Their next meeting will be on Dec. 30.&nbsp;

By Anthony Gorges&nbsp;JC Post-- Geary County Commissioners announced that they will interview three to five candidates for the job of Director of the Geary County Convention and Visitor's Bureau. Interviews will be conducted in the first week of January.The CVB Director job has been empty since Nov. 13, when the former CVB Director was let go. Rick Dykstra, a Marketing Specialist with the CVB is still on staff.&nbsp;-- Geary County Commissioners Keith Ascher and Trish Giordano decided they will not hire a new Public Works Director until Kathy Tremont, a new commissioner comes on board in mid-January. Former Public Works Director&nbsp;Corey Trumpp retired on Dec. 9.&nbsp;&nbsp;-- The Geary County Commission will not hold a meeting on Monday, Dec. 23. Their next meeting will be on Dec. 30.&nbsp;

Geary County Commission news notes 

&nbsp; Riley County, KS – Diane Creek started work Monday, December 9 as the new Health Department Director for Riley County. In this role, Creek will also serve as the Local Health Officer, leading the department’s mission to promote and protect the health of Riley County residents.

As Health Department Director, Creek will oversee department programs and services, review agency activities, ensure compliance with local, state, and federal statutes, and collaborate with community partners to address complex public health issues. The position is authorized by state law (K.S.A. 65-202) as well as local resolutions and ordinances.

Creek brings a wealth of experience in public health, social work, and administration to the county. After earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Kansas State University, Creek started her career at the Salina Health Department working with high-risk pregnant and parenting mothers. She went on to earn a Master’s Degree in social work from Washburn University.

Creek has held key positions at the Shawnee County Health Department, and the Toe River Health District as director during the COVID-19 pandemic. These experiences have fueled her passion for addressing critical public health challenges, including rural community outreach, preparedness, and drug recovery initiatives.

“Diane has demonstrated a strong commitment to public health and the well-being of communities,” said Commission Chairman John Ford. &nbsp;“Her extensive experience and innovative mindset make her an excellent fit to lead our Health Department and strengthen services in Riley County.”

Creek shared her enthusiasm for the role, saying, “Everything about who I am and what I believe has led me to be passionate about public health. I want my work to make life better for everybody in the community, not just a select few. There are a lot of opportunities here to connect with other organizations, reach out to rural residents to ask what they need, and build new and stronger connections.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734636354556.jpeg" alt="&nbsp; Photo of Diane Creek courtesy of Riley County" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; Photo of Diane Creek courtesy of Riley County</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; Riley County, KS – Diane Creek started work Monday, December 9 as the new Health Department Director for Riley County. In this role, Creek will also serve as the Local Health Officer, leading the department’s mission to promote and protect the health of Riley County residents.As Health Department Director, Creek will oversee department programs and services, review agency activities, ensure compliance with local, state, and federal statutes, and collaborate with community partners to address complex public health issues. The position is authorized by state law (K.S.A. 65-202) as well as local resolutions and ordinances.Creek brings a wealth of experience in public health, social work, and administration to the county. After earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Kansas State University, Creek started her career at the Salina Health Department working with high-risk pregnant and parenting mothers. She went on to earn a Master’s Degree in social work from Washburn University.Creek has held key positions at the Shawnee County Health Department, and the Toe River Health District as director during the COVID-19 pandemic. These experiences have fueled her passion for addressing critical public health challenges, including rural community outreach, preparedness, and drug recovery initiatives.“Diane has demonstrated a strong commitment to public health and the well-being of communities,” said Commission Chairman John Ford. &nbsp;“Her extensive experience and innovative mindset make her an excellent fit to lead our Health Department and strengthen services in Riley County.”Creek shared her enthusiasm for the role, saying, “Everything about who I am and what I believe has led me to be passionate about public health. I want my work to make life better for everybody in the community, not just a select few. There are a lot of opportunities here to connect with other organizations, reach out to rural residents to ask what they need, and build new and stronger connections.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Riley County announces Diane Creek as new Health Department Director

JUNCTION CITY, KS — The Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that two of our community leaders, Courtney Boehm and Lindsey Snider, have successfully graduated from the esteemed Leadership Kansas program. This achievement highlights the commitment and dedication of Junction City leaders to shaping the future of Kansas through visionary leadership and community engagement.

Leadership Kansas, a program under the Kansas Chamber of Commerce, is designed to enhance and motivate emerging leaders from diverse communities across the state. Each year, nearly 500 individuals are nominated to apply, but only 40 are selected after a rigorous application and selection process. The program ensures representation from a wide range of geographic, racial, occupational, and gender perspectives, creating a dynamic group of individuals who truly represent Kansas.

Over the past year, Courtney and Lindsey joined their cohort in touring the state, engaging with experts and professionals from various industries, and gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that shape Kansas. From agriculture and manufacturing to healthcare and education, the program provided unparalleled insights into the diverse sectors that drive our state’s economy and culture.

“Participating in Leadership Kansas has been an incredible journey,” said Lindsey Snider, President of Central National Bank - Junction City. “The program not only expanded our understanding of key issues facing Kansas but also reinforced the importance of leadership and collaboration in fostering growth and innovation. It was an honor to represent Junction City and bring our community’s perspective to the conversation.”

The Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce celebrates this milestone as a testament to the leadership potential within our community. By participating in programs like Leadership Kansas, Junction City’s leaders are equipped to bring fresh ideas, foster connections, and champion initiatives that benefit our region and the state.

For more information about Leadership Kansas or to learn more about the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce’s efforts to develop local leaders, please contact:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@jcacc.org">info@jcacc.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734629889322.jpeg" alt="Pictured from left to right,&nbsp;Courtney Boehm and Lindsey Snider" />
 <figcaption>Pictured from left to right,&nbsp;Courtney Boehm and Lindsey Snider</figcaption>
 </figure>JUNCTION CITY, KS — The Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that two of our community leaders, Courtney Boehm and Lindsey Snider, have successfully graduated from the esteemed Leadership Kansas program. This achievement highlights the commitment and dedication of Junction City leaders to shaping the future of Kansas through visionary leadership and community engagement.Leadership Kansas, a program under the Kansas Chamber of Commerce, is designed to enhance and motivate emerging leaders from diverse communities across the state. Each year, nearly 500 individuals are nominated to apply, but only 40 are selected after a rigorous application and selection process. The program ensures representation from a wide range of geographic, racial, occupational, and gender perspectives, creating a dynamic group of individuals who truly represent Kansas.Over the past year, Courtney and Lindsey joined their cohort in touring the state, engaging with experts and professionals from various industries, and gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that shape Kansas. From agriculture and manufacturing to healthcare and education, the program provided unparalleled insights into the diverse sectors that drive our state’s economy and culture.“Participating in Leadership Kansas has been an incredible journey,” said Lindsey Snider, President of Central National Bank - Junction City. “The program not only expanded our understanding of key issues facing Kansas but also reinforced the importance of leadership and collaboration in fostering growth and innovation. It was an honor to represent Junction City and bring our community’s perspective to the conversation.”The Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce celebrates this milestone as a testament to the leadership potential within our community. By participating in programs like Leadership Kansas, Junction City’s leaders are equipped to bring fresh ideas, foster connections, and champion initiatives that benefit our region and the state.For more information about Leadership Kansas or to learn more about the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce’s efforts to develop local leaders, please contact:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@jcacc.org">info@jcacc.org</a>.

Junction City Community Leaders Graduate from Leadership Kansas Program

The U.S. Department of Energy recently announced that ten proposed National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor projects have been scaled down to three, none of which will run through Kansas. In the meantime, the Grain Belt Express transmission line, approved by the Kansas Corporation Commission in 2011, will continue through the state regulatory process.

While the route of the Grain Belt Express project fell within the borders of one of the proposed Department of Energy corridors, its status as a previously approved project has not changed and is moving forward.

In addition, without a federal corridor designation, state jurisdiction and approval processes remain intact for the Grain Belt Express, and the Kansas Corporation Commission will continue to review any potential future projects.

Federal “backstop” siting authority or the use of federal eminent domain are not an option.&nbsp; The Department of Energy’s decision does not reverse the previously announced $4.9 billion conditional loan guarantee awarded to the Grain Belt Express project on Nov. 25, 2024.&nbsp;

To date, the KCC has taken the following actions in respect to the Grain Belt Express project:

2011 – The Grain Belt Express project, designed to transport energy from Kansas wind and solar farms, was approved based on benefits to the state and granted a certificate of convenience and necessity to build the line.

 2013 – The route of the Kansas portion of the line was approved, beginning at a converter station in Ford County and continuing on to Missouri.

 2019 – The Commission approved the acquisition of the project by Invenergy Transmission LLC from Grain Belt Express Clean Line LLC.

 2023 – The KCC approved a request to allow the line to be built in two phases. Phase 1, which includes Kansas and Missouri, can begin once all regulatory and financing requirements have been obtained for that portion of the project. 

The order did not remove or alter any of the protections for landowners required by the commission when it approved Invenergy's acquisition of the project in 2019. In 2024, the KCC gave conditional approval to a siting plan for two 345 kV transmission lines, known as the AC Collector System, designed to connect wind and solar farms to the Grain Belt Express.

A final order on the siting of the AC collector lines is expected to be issued in 2025.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578754176087.jpeg" alt="KCC Kansas Corporation Commission logo sq.jpg" />
 <figcaption>KCC Kansas Corporation Commission logo sq.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Corporation CommissionThe U.S. Department of Energy recently announced that ten proposed National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor projects have been scaled down to three, none of which will run through Kansas. In the meantime, the Grain Belt Express transmission line, approved by the Kansas Corporation Commission in 2011, will continue through the state regulatory process.While the route of the Grain Belt Express project fell within the borders of one of the proposed Department of Energy corridors, its status as a previously approved project has not changed and is moving forward.In addition, without a federal corridor designation, state jurisdiction and approval processes remain intact for the Grain Belt Express, and the Kansas Corporation Commission will continue to review any potential future projects.Federal “backstop” siting authority or the use of federal eminent domain are not an option.&nbsp; The Department of Energy’s decision does not reverse the previously announced $4.9 billion conditional loan guarantee awarded to the Grain Belt Express project on Nov. 25, 2024.&nbsp;To date, the KCC has taken the following actions in respect to the Grain Belt Express project:2011 – The Grain Belt Express project, designed to transport energy from Kansas wind and solar farms, was approved based on benefits to the state and granted a certificate of convenience and necessity to build the line. 2013 – The route of the Kansas portion of the line was approved, beginning at a converter station in Ford County and continuing on to Missouri. 2019 – The Commission approved the acquisition of the project by Invenergy Transmission LLC from Grain Belt Express Clean Line LLC. 2023 – The KCC approved a request to allow the line to be built in two phases. Phase 1, which includes Kansas and Missouri, can begin once all regulatory and financing requirements have been obtained for that portion of the project. The order did not remove or alter any of the protections for landowners required by the commission when it approved Invenergy's acquisition of the project in 2019. In 2024, the KCC gave conditional approval to a siting plan for two 345 kV transmission lines, known as the AC Collector System, designed to connect wind and solar farms to the Grain Belt Express.A final order on the siting of the AC collector lines is expected to be issued in 2025.

Grain Belt Express line continues through Kansas regulatory process

RILEY COUNTY —The Kansas State Board of Healing Arts has issued a Consent Order in which 51-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ericksonchiropractic.org/">Kenyon L. Erickson, D.C.,</a> license number 01-04711, surrenders his license to practice, and such surrender shall be treated as a revocation, according to a statement from the board.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.ksbha.ks.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/10320/638701331154458300">Click here to see a copy</a> of this public order&nbsp;

In April Ericson was found guilty and convicted of sexual battery in Riley County District Court. The conviction was based on Erickson's conduct during the course of treatment with a patient.

Erickson is also required to register as a sex offender for 15-years, according to the KBI registered offender web site.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734626072561.png" alt="Kenyon Erickson in his Dec. 2024 photo from the KBI Offender Registry" />
 <figcaption>Kenyon Erickson in his Dec. 2024 photo from the KBI Offender Registry</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —The Kansas State Board of Healing Arts has issued a Consent Order in which 51-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ericksonchiropractic.org/">Kenyon L. Erickson, D.C.,</a> license number 01-04711, surrenders his license to practice, and such surrender shall be treated as a revocation, according to a statement from the board.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksbha.ks.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/10320/638701331154458300">Click here to see a copy</a> of this public order&nbsp;In April Ericson was found guilty and convicted of sexual battery in Riley County District Court. The conviction was based on Erickson's conduct during the course of treatment with a patient.Erickson is also required to register as a sex offender for 15-years, according to the KBI registered offender web site.

Chiropractor surrenders license after sexual battery conviction

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734625683107.jpeg" alt="Kaitlyn Stevens, Outside warrant, arrested 12/18" />
 <figcaption>Kaitlyn Stevens, Outside warrant, arrested 12/18</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734625712018.jpeg" alt="Jordan Cisco, Possession of controlled substance, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, Driving while license cancelled, suspended, or revoked, arrested 12/18" />
 <figcaption>Jordan Cisco, Possession of controlled substance, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, Driving while license cancelled, suspended, or revoked, arrested 12/18</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734625780526.jpeg" alt="Craig Pierce, Disorderly conduct, Possession of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia, arrested 12/18" />
 <figcaption>Craig Pierce, Disorderly conduct, Possession of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia, arrested 12/18</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734625829897.jpeg" alt="Jeremy Harper, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 12/18" />
 <figcaption>Jeremy Harper, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 12/18</figcaption>
 </figure>Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos Dec. 19

On Wednesday night inside Blue Jay Event Center, the Junction City Blue Jays completed the sweep over St. Mary's Academy, with the freshman, JV, and varsity teams all winning. 

The varsity game began with a lop pass to senior Ja'Twaan Williams, who started the scoring for Junction City, who ran all over St. Mary's Academy, winning 53-17. 

After a sluggish first quarter, the Blue Jays led by eight, 10-2, then doubled that to 16 at halftime. 

The second half was all about Junction City, with the Blue Jays extending their lead to 30 by the end of the third quarter. Senior Jordan Weston banked in a three-pointer just before the end of the third to give JC a 47-17 lead and a running clock in the fourth quarter. The Blue Jays held St. Mary's scoreless in the fourth quarter and won 53-17.

JC was led in scoring by junior guard Lovell Autry with 18 points, and senior Ja'Twaan Williams added 12 points. 

With the win, the Blue Jays head into Christmas break undefeated at 4-0.

By Anthony GorgesJC PostOn Wednesday night inside Blue Jay Event Center, the Junction City Blue Jays completed the sweep over St. Mary's Academy, with the freshman, JV, and varsity teams all winning. The varsity game began with a lop pass to senior Ja'Twaan Williams, who started the scoring for Junction City, who ran all over St. Mary's Academy, winning 53-17. After a sluggish first quarter, the Blue Jays led by eight, 10-2, then doubled that to 16 at halftime. The second half was all about Junction City, with the Blue Jays extending their lead to 30 by the end of the third quarter. Senior Jordan Weston banked in a three-pointer just before the end of the third to give JC a 47-17 lead and a running clock in the fourth quarter. The Blue Jays held St. Mary's scoreless in the fourth quarter and won 53-17.JC was led in scoring by junior guard Lovell Autry with 18 points, and senior Ja'Twaan Williams added 12 points. With the win, the Blue Jays head into Christmas break undefeated at 4-0.

Blue Jays beat St. Mary's Academy and enter Christmas break undefeated

WABAUNSEE COUNTY—A Kansas teen was injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Wednesday in Wabaunsee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Ford F250 driven by&nbsp;Corbi M.&nbsp;Tenpenny, 15, Eskridge, was westbound on Mission Valley Road approximately 2.7 miles west of Mission Valley High School

The pickup traveled off the north edge of the road and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle then crossed the westbound and eastbound lanes of the road, entered the south ditch and rolled.

EMS transported Tenpenny to Children's Mercy in Kansas City. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

WABAUNSEE COUNTY—A Kansas teen was injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Wednesday in Wabaunsee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Ford F250 driven by&nbsp;Corbi M.&nbsp;Tenpenny, 15, Eskridge, was westbound on Mission Valley Road approximately 2.7 miles west of Mission Valley High SchoolThe pickup traveled off the north edge of the road and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle then crossed the westbound and eastbound lanes of the road, entered the south ditch and rolled.EMS transported Tenpenny to Children's Mercy in Kansas City. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

15-year-old hospitalized after pickup rollover accident

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. - It was truly a day to remember in Geary County Schools USD 475 on Wednesday as 17 H.D. Karns Innovations Academy USD 475 students were recognized for completing their graduation requirements.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Braden Carpenter, Syntrell Carter, Diego Correa, Javier De Santiago Medina, Landen Dorsey, Anthony Green, Mason Greene, Mason López, Ava Miles, Wyatt Miller, Sadid Pagan Galarza, Alex Paris, Darian Pope, Jeremiah Schaeffer, Michael Thomas, Astrid Torres Nieves and Nazyia Tynes were honored in front of friends, family, district staff and others inside the H.D. Karns auditorium.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734561792186.jpeg" alt="H.D. Karns Recognizes Graduates at their Ceremony&nbsp; on Wednesday.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>H.D. Karns Recognizes Graduates at their Ceremony&nbsp; on Wednesday.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>JUNCTION CITY, Kan. - It was truly a day to remember in Geary County Schools USD 475 on Wednesday as 17 H.D. Karns Innovations Academy USD 475 students were recognized for completing their graduation requirements.&nbsp;On Wednesday, Braden Carpenter, Syntrell Carter, Diego Correa, Javier De Santiago Medina, Landen Dorsey, Anthony Green, Mason Greene, Mason López, Ava Miles, Wyatt Miller, Sadid Pagan Galarza, Alex Paris, Darian Pope, Jeremiah Schaeffer, Michael Thomas, Astrid Torres Nieves and Nazyia Tynes were honored in front of friends, family, district staff and others inside the H.D. Karns auditorium.&nbsp;&nbsp;

H.D. Karns Recognizes Graduates at Ceremony 

In observance of the Christmas Holiday, the Geary County Public Works Departments will follow the hours listed below:

The Geary County Public Works Department, HHW / Recycling Area and Geary County Landfill will be closed Tuesday &amp; Wednesday, December 24 &amp; 25, 2024. We will resume normal business hours on Thursday, December 26, 2024.

The Geary County Transfer Station will only be closed on Wednesday, December 25, 2024. The Transfer Station will resume normal business hours on Thursday, December 26, 2024.

In observance of the Christmas Holiday, the Geary County Public Works Departments will follow the hours listed below:The Geary County Public Works Department, HHW / Recycling Area and Geary County Landfill will be closed Tuesday &amp; Wednesday, December 24 &amp; 25, 2024. We will resume normal business hours on Thursday, December 26, 2024.The Geary County Transfer Station will only be closed on Wednesday, December 25, 2024. The Transfer Station will resume normal business hours on Thursday, December 26, 2024.Happy Holidays!

Geary County Public Works Holiday Schedule 

On Tuesday night, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JCHSUSD475?__cft__[0]=AZVelwUcqsNIaR36x1AXR-9xt9H2NLRVSnhWYpF387p5Cvijaot8DJz9Tv7Wmx_QeiylnoZEA7Hrjz2LO-PgBL632qF19YfTd4q7r73EqKTAk0dxjxvASN3eC9FMWF87QwRBHVVXBfwoyXxtfcEW3Nij4O55k7ukimADof_4tTzJ6fj5Zz6aQq-QiDXXPx9_Hy4&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Junction City High School</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/junctioncityffachapter?__cft__[0]=AZVelwUcqsNIaR36x1AXR-9xt9H2NLRVSnhWYpF387p5Cvijaot8DJz9Tv7Wmx_QeiylnoZEA7Hrjz2LO-PgBL632qF19YfTd4q7r73EqKTAk0dxjxvASN3eC9FMWF87QwRBHVVXBfwoyXxtfcEW3Nij4O55k7ukimADof_4tTzJ6fj5Zz6aQq-QiDXXPx9_Hy4&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">FFA Chapter</a> was presented a check for $5,000 from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/channelseed?__cft__[0]=AZVelwUcqsNIaR36x1AXR-9xt9H2NLRVSnhWYpF387p5Cvijaot8DJz9Tv7Wmx_QeiylnoZEA7Hrjz2LO-PgBL632qF19YfTd4q7r73EqKTAk0dxjxvASN3eC9FMWF87QwRBHVVXBfwoyXxtfcEW3Nij4O55k7ukimADof_4tTzJ6fj5Zz6aQq-QiDXXPx9_Hy4&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Channel Seed</a> during halftime of the Blue Jays girls basketball game.

The Channeling Good Grant helps to provide funding to support local community initiatives, often focused on agricultural education, sustainability, and farmer wellbeing, as part of their, Channeling Good, commitment to making a positive impact in farming communities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734552240554.jpeg" alt="(Photo courtesy of Geary County Schools - USD 475 Facebook page)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo courtesy of Geary County Schools - USD 475 Facebook page)</figcaption>
 </figure>On Tuesday night, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JCHSUSD475?__cft__[0]=AZVelwUcqsNIaR36x1AXR-9xt9H2NLRVSnhWYpF387p5Cvijaot8DJz9Tv7Wmx_QeiylnoZEA7Hrjz2LO-PgBL632qF19YfTd4q7r73EqKTAk0dxjxvASN3eC9FMWF87QwRBHVVXBfwoyXxtfcEW3Nij4O55k7ukimADof_4tTzJ6fj5Zz6aQq-QiDXXPx9_Hy4&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Junction City High School</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/junctioncityffachapter?__cft__[0]=AZVelwUcqsNIaR36x1AXR-9xt9H2NLRVSnhWYpF387p5Cvijaot8DJz9Tv7Wmx_QeiylnoZEA7Hrjz2LO-PgBL632qF19YfTd4q7r73EqKTAk0dxjxvASN3eC9FMWF87QwRBHVVXBfwoyXxtfcEW3Nij4O55k7ukimADof_4tTzJ6fj5Zz6aQq-QiDXXPx9_Hy4&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">FFA Chapter</a> was presented a check for $5,000 from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/channelseed?__cft__[0]=AZVelwUcqsNIaR36x1AXR-9xt9H2NLRVSnhWYpF387p5Cvijaot8DJz9Tv7Wmx_QeiylnoZEA7Hrjz2LO-PgBL632qF19YfTd4q7r73EqKTAk0dxjxvASN3eC9FMWF87QwRBHVVXBfwoyXxtfcEW3Nij4O55k7ukimADof_4tTzJ6fj5Zz6aQq-QiDXXPx9_Hy4&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Channel Seed</a> during halftime of the Blue Jays girls basketball game. The Channeling Good Grant helps to provide funding to support local community initiatives, often focused on agricultural education, sustainability, and farmer wellbeing, as part of their, Channeling Good, commitment to making a positive impact in farming communities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Junction City High School FFA receives a $5,000 donation

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

David Brown, Failure to appear, arrested 12/17

Khassie Morris, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 12/17

Michael Kelsay, Failure to appear, arrested 12/17

Cory Seubert, Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked, arrested 12/17

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734556047741.jpeg" alt="Domanick Miller, Theft-All other, arrested 12/17" />
 <figcaption>Domanick Miller, Theft-All other, arrested 12/17</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734556080308.jpeg" alt="Chasity Blocker, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Possession of controlled substance, Probation violation, arrested 12/17" />
 <figcaption>Chasity Blocker, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Possession of controlled substance, Probation violation, arrested 12/17</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734556149176.jpeg" alt="Taylor Cleveland, Failure to appear, arrested&nbsp; 12/17" />
 <figcaption>Taylor Cleveland, Failure to appear, arrested&nbsp; 12/17</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734556188507.jpeg" alt="Robert Searles, Theft &lt; $1,500 pocket picking, Forgery, Making or altering a written instrument, arrested 12/17" />
 <figcaption>Robert Searles, Theft &lt; $1,500 pocket picking, Forgery, Making or altering a written instrument, arrested 12/17</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734557401569.jpeg" alt="Angel Melendez, Failure to appear, arrested 12/17" />
 <figcaption>Angel Melendez, Failure to appear, arrested 12/17</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734557436858.jpeg" alt="Jeremy Scott, Littering, Domestic battery, arrested 12/18" />
 <figcaption>Jeremy Scott, Littering, Domestic battery, arrested 12/18</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.David Brown, Failure to appear, arrested 12/17Khassie Morris, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 12/17Michael Kelsay, Failure to appear, arrested 12/17Cory Seubert, Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked, arrested 12/17Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos Dec. 18

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club recognized Janis Curit, a junior at St. Xavier's Catholic Schools, as the Student of the Quarter.  Ricardo Gutierrez, coordinator of the club's Student of the Quarter stated that Janis is the President of the Junior Class, President of the Junior Optimist Club, an Eagle Scout, regularly serves for Mass, and raises and lowers the American flag at school among other activities.  Janis has a goal of attending West Point following high school graduation.  

He received a $25.00 gift certificate from JC's BBQ &amp; Grill and a framed plaque from the Optimists.  

Janis is the son of Richard and Inga Curit of Junction City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734551743614.jpeg" alt="Pictured left to right are Shawn Augustine, Principal at St. Xavier's Catholic Schools; Janis Curit; Inga Curit; Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President and Ricardo Gutierrez, JC Breakfast Optimist Club's Coordinator of the Student of the Quarter.&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Pictured left to right are Shawn Augustine, Principal at St. Xavier's Catholic Schools; Janis Curit; Inga Curit; Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President and Ricardo Gutierrez, JC Breakfast Optimist Club's Coordinator of the Student of the Quarter.&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The JC Breakfast Optimist Club recognized Janis Curit, a junior at St. Xavier's Catholic Schools, as the Student of the Quarter. Ricardo Gutierrez, coordinator of the club's Student of the Quarter stated that Janis is the President of the Junior Class, President of the Junior Optimist Club, an Eagle Scout, regularly serves for Mass, and raises and lowers the American flag at school among other activities. Janis has a goal of attending West Point following high school graduation. He received a $25.00 gift certificate from JC's BBQ &amp; Grill and a framed plaque from the Optimists. Janis is the son of Richard and Inga Curit of Junction City.

Optimist Club recognizes Janis Curit of St. X, as the Student of the Quarter

Kim Neptune, Director of Programs and Education at the Geary County Historical Society, shared information about school days in the 1850's and received&nbsp;a $200.00 donation to continue working with youth interested in Geary County History.&nbsp; Kim stated that "History Alive" a pioneer reenactment&nbsp;will be an onsite experience&nbsp;for Junction City Middle School Eighth Graders on April 25, 2025. The reenactment will be held at the Spring Valley Historic Site at the corner of K-18 and Spring Valley Road in Junction City.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734551347015.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Pictured left to right are Kim Neptune, Director of Programs and Education at the Geary County Historical Society and Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Pictured left to right are Kim Neptune, Director of Programs and Education at the Geary County Historical Society and Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Kim Neptune, Director of Programs and Education at the Geary County Historical Society, shared information about school days in the 1850's and received&nbsp;a $200.00 donation to continue working with youth interested in Geary County History.&nbsp; Kim stated that "History Alive" a pioneer reenactment&nbsp;will be an onsite experience&nbsp;for Junction City Middle School Eighth Graders on April 25, 2025. The reenactment will be held at the Spring Valley Historic Site at the corner of K-18 and Spring Valley Road in Junction City.&nbsp;

Optimist Club donates to the Geary County Historical Society

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two teens in connection with a fight.

Just after 6p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report of aggravated battery on&nbsp; in the 400 block of Clydesdale Drive in Ogden, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

&nbsp;Nicholas Pounds, 17, of Ogden, threw a metal chair at another resident. Legend Brown, 16, stepped in the middle of the altercation pushing Pounds to the ground and  assaulting him. Police arrested both Pounds and Brown.&nbsp; Both were booked on requested charges of&nbsp;Aggravated battery; Recklessly can cause bodily&nbsp;harm/disfig/death w/ deadly weapon, according to the county arrest report.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two teens in connection with a fight.Just after 6p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report of aggravated battery on&nbsp; in the 400 block of Clydesdale Drive in Ogden, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;Nicholas Pounds, 17, of Ogden, threw a metal chair at another resident. Legend Brown, 16, stepped in the middle of the altercation pushing Pounds to the ground and assaulting him. Police arrested both Pounds and Brown.&nbsp; Both were booked on requested charges of&nbsp;Aggravated battery; Recklessly can cause bodily&nbsp;harm/disfig/death w/ deadly weapon, according to the county arrest report.

RCPD: Two teens arrested after fight involving thrown chair

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Tuesday in Riley County.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a vehicle driven by 72-year-old David Livingston of Manhattan traveled into a barrier.&nbsp;

EMS transported Livingston to Via Christi for treatment. The RCPD released no additional details.

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Tuesday in Riley County.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a vehicle driven by 72-year-old David Livingston of Manhattan traveled into a barrier.&nbsp;EMS transported Livingston to Via Christi for treatment. The RCPD released no additional details.

Manhattan man hospitalized after crash into barrier

In a thrilling, down-to-the-wire game, the Junction City Lady Jay basketball team beat Lawrence Free State 49-47 on Tuesday night. 

A fast-moving first quarter saw Junction City lead 13-10 after one, and then an offensive explosion led Junction City to a 31-16 lead at halftime. 

The second half was a different story, with the Firebirds of Free State in full comeback mode. After Junction City took a 16-point, 38-22 lead, Free went on a 10-0 run to cut the deficit to 38-32 with one quarter to play. 

The fourth quarter began with a Morgan Nabus layup for JC, and it was back and forth after that. The Firebirds began hitting from beyond the three-point line, and foul trouble nearly plagued Junction City. 

Free State took a 44-43 lead over the Lady Jays with three minutes to play, but Junction City battled back and won the game with a final of 49-47. 

The victory was the first for Lady Jay head coach Brianna Little and the first home victory for the girl's team in over a year. 

Junction City was led in scoring by freshman Isabel Pruit, who had 10 points on the night. Fellow freshman A'niyah Henry-Rivers added nine, and so did junior Morgan Nabus. 

With the win, the Lady Jays are 1-2 heading into the Christmas break.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734497189082.jpeg" alt="Junction City Head Girls basketball coach Brianna Little draws up a play for her team in the fourth quarter of Tuesday's night game against Lawrence Free State.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Junction City Head Girls basketball coach Brianna Little draws up a play for her team in the fourth quarter of Tuesday's night game against Lawrence Free State.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesJC PostIn a thrilling, down-to-the-wire game, the Junction City Lady Jay basketball team beat Lawrence Free State 49-47 on Tuesday night. A fast-moving first quarter saw Junction City lead 13-10 after one, and then an offensive explosion led Junction City to a 31-16 lead at halftime. The second half was a different story, with the Firebirds of Free State in full comeback mode. After Junction City took a 16-point, 38-22 lead, Free went on a 10-0 run to cut the deficit to 38-32 with one quarter to play. The fourth quarter began with a Morgan Nabus layup for JC, and it was back and forth after that. The Firebirds began hitting from beyond the three-point line, and foul trouble nearly plagued Junction City. Free State took a 44-43 lead over the Lady Jays with three minutes to play, but Junction City battled back and won the game with a final of 49-47. The victory was the first for Lady Jay head coach Brianna Little and the first home victory for the girl's team in over a year. Junction City was led in scoring by freshman Isabel Pruit, who had 10 points on the night. Fellow freshman A'niyah Henry-Rivers added nine, and so did junior Morgan Nabus. With the win, the Lady Jays are 1-2 heading into the Christmas break.

Lady Jays beat Lawrence Free State, get first win of the year

&nbsp;The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc. Board of Directors has announced a new multi-year partnership with Emporia and Emporia State University to host the 2026, 2027 and 2028 Kansas Shrine Bowl games. The annual East vs. West all-star football game, which began in 1974, is scheduled to be played on the fourth Saturday in June starting in 2026 at Welch Stadium on the campus of Emporia State University in Emporia. Game dates will be Saturday, June 27, 2026, Saturday, June 26, 2027, and Saturday, June 24, 2028.

“We are thrilled and honored that Emporia has been selected to host the Kansas Shrine Bowl from 2026 to 2028. This is a testament to our community's dedication to fostering excellence in sports and hospitality,” said LeLan Dains, Director Visit Emporia. “We can’t wait to showcase Emporia’s vibrant community and provide an unforgettable experience for players, fans, and everyone involved.”

In addition to the all-star football game, the week of the Kansas Shrine Bowl includes the Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp, the Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp, the Shriners Children’s Hospital Experience, the Kansas Shrine Bowl Charity Carnival, the largest annual Shriners Parade in Kansas, the Kansas Shrine Bowl golf tournament, and many other gatherings of family, friends, alumni and Shriners from all across Kansas. “The size of our event, along with the logistics for student housing and meals throughout camp, puts a significant strain on the local community and university to host the Kansas Shrine Bowl,” said Brice Kesler, Executive Director of the Kansas Shrine Bowl. “Due to the growing size of our event and the accommodations it requires, it was the right time to find a location that was able to annually accommodate the scope of our event. Emporia and Emporia State have proven to be excellent hosts for our event, they met us with excitement and fully embraced the opportunity to make their community a home for the Kansas Shrine Bowl.”

Emporia State has hosted the Kansas Shrine Bowl on six previous occasions, 1998, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016 and 2024. Only the three original host cities, Lawrence, Manhattan and Wichita have hosted the Kansas Shrine Bowl on more occasions.

The East team will continue to hold their team training camp at Ottawa University, while the West team will host their team training camp at Hutchinson Community College starting in 2025. The coaches and players report to camp the weekend prior to the game for practice. The band camp and cheer camp participants report to camp at the host site on Tuesday and Wednesday of game week, respectively.

Future Kansas Shrine Bowl Dates&nbsp;

Saturday, June 21, 2025 – Memorial Stadium, Dodge City, Kansas

Saturday, June 27, 2026 – Welch Stadium, Emporia, Kansas

Saturday, June 26, 2027 – Welch Stadium, Emporia, Kansas

Saturday, June 24, 2028 – Welch Stadium, Emporia, Kansas

The 2024 Kansas Shrine Bowl in Emporia resulted in a $150,000 donation to benefit Shriners Children’s, the second largest single-year contribution in the 51-year history of the organization. That contribution was also made possible in part due to the success of the inaugural KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals, which will be returning to Newman University in Wichita, Kansas for the second annual event on Saturday, March 29, 2025. The 2025 Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth is scheduled to be played on Saturday, June 21, 2025 in Dodge City, Kansas. To learn more about the Kansas Shrine Bowl and related events, or to make a tax-deductible contribution, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/">www.KansasShrineBowl.com</a>.

The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity that produces annual events and related activities with net proceeds benefiting Shriners Children's. The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc has existed since 1974 and has sent $3.99M to Shriners Hospitals for Children. The flagship event has been the Kansas Shrine Bowl, an East vs. West all-star senior football game that began in 1974. Beginning in 2024, the KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals was added to the list of Kansas Shrine All-Star Events. All Kansas Shrine All-Star Events are produced and presented to benefit Shriners Children's. Shriner's Children's, previously Shriners Hospitals for Children, is a world-renowned healthcare system with hospitals, outpatient clinics, ambulatory care centers and outreach locations across the globe. Shriners Children's is dedicated to improving the lives of children every day by providing pediatric specialty care, innovative research, and outstanding teaching programs for medical professionals. Children up to the age of 18 are eligible for care and receive all services in a family-centered environment, regardless of the patients' ability to pay.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734469010847.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc. Board of Directors has announced a new multi-year partnership with Emporia and Emporia State University to host the 2026, 2027 and 2028 Kansas Shrine Bowl games. The annual East vs. West all-star football game, which began in 1974, is scheduled to be played on the fourth Saturday in June starting in 2026 at Welch Stadium on the campus of Emporia State University in Emporia. Game dates will be Saturday, June 27, 2026, Saturday, June 26, 2027, and Saturday, June 24, 2028.“We are thrilled and honored that Emporia has been selected to host the Kansas Shrine Bowl from 2026 to 2028. This is a testament to our community's dedication to fostering excellence in sports and hospitality,” said LeLan Dains, Director Visit Emporia. “We can’t wait to showcase Emporia’s vibrant community and provide an unforgettable experience for players, fans, and everyone involved.”In addition to the all-star football game, the week of the Kansas Shrine Bowl includes the Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp, the Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp, the Shriners Children’s Hospital Experience, the Kansas Shrine Bowl Charity Carnival, the largest annual Shriners Parade in Kansas, the Kansas Shrine Bowl golf tournament, and many other gatherings of family, friends, alumni and Shriners from all across Kansas. “The size of our event, along with the logistics for student housing and meals throughout camp, puts a significant strain on the local community and university to host the Kansas Shrine Bowl,” said Brice Kesler, Executive Director of the Kansas Shrine Bowl. “Due to the growing size of our event and the accommodations it requires, it was the right time to find a location that was able to annually accommodate the scope of our event. Emporia and Emporia State have proven to be excellent hosts for our event, they met us with excitement and fully embraced the opportunity to make their community a home for the Kansas Shrine Bowl.”Emporia State has hosted the Kansas Shrine Bowl on six previous occasions, 1998, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016 and 2024. Only the three original host cities, Lawrence, Manhattan and Wichita have hosted the Kansas Shrine Bowl on more occasions.The East team will continue to hold their team training camp at Ottawa University, while the West team will host their team training camp at Hutchinson Community College starting in 2025. The coaches and players report to camp the weekend prior to the game for practice. The band camp and cheer camp participants report to camp at the host site on Tuesday and Wednesday of game week, respectively.Future Kansas Shrine Bowl Dates&nbsp;Saturday, June 21, 2025 – Memorial Stadium, Dodge City, KansasSaturday, June 27, 2026 – Welch Stadium, Emporia, KansasSaturday, June 26, 2027 – Welch Stadium, Emporia, KansasSaturday, June 24, 2028 – Welch Stadium, Emporia, KansasThe 2024 Kansas Shrine Bowl in Emporia resulted in a $150,000 donation to benefit Shriners Children’s, the second largest single-year contribution in the 51-year history of the organization. That contribution was also made possible in part due to the success of the inaugural KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals, which will be returning to Newman University in Wichita, Kansas for the second annual event on Saturday, March 29, 2025. The 2025 Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth is scheduled to be played on Saturday, June 21, 2025 in Dodge City, Kansas. To learn more about the Kansas Shrine Bowl and related events, or to make a tax-deductible contribution, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/">www.KansasShrineBowl.com</a>.The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity that produces annual events and related activities with net proceeds benefiting Shriners Children's. The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc has existed since 1974 and has sent $3.99M to Shriners Hospitals for Children. The flagship event has been the Kansas Shrine Bowl, an East vs. West all-star senior football game that began in 1974. Beginning in 2024, the KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals was added to the list of Kansas Shrine All-Star Events. All Kansas Shrine All-Star Events are produced and presented to benefit Shriners Children's. Shriner's Children's, previously Shriners Hospitals for Children, is a world-renowned healthcare system with hospitals, outpatient clinics, ambulatory care centers and outreach locations across the globe. Shriners Children's is dedicated to improving the lives of children every day by providing pediatric specialty care, innovative research, and outstanding teaching programs for medical professionals. Children up to the age of 18 are eligible for care and receive all services in a family-centered environment, regardless of the patients' ability to pay.

Kansas Shrine Bowl and Emporia State Announce Multi-Year Partnership

ABILENE, KS&nbsp;– As the year draws to a close, the Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) celebrates another year filled with national accolades, exciting projects, and measurable economic growth. Entering her ninth year as Director of the CVB, Julie Roller Weeks reflects on the significance of tourism to Abilene’s identity and economy.

“I’m so proud of our progress, and thanks to the work and support of many, the snowball keeps building, and good things continue to come our way,” said Roller Weeks.

If success is measured by recognition, Abilene continues to shine. In 2024, the city earned national accolades as a Top 10 Best Historic Small Town&nbsp;by&nbsp;USA TODAY&nbsp;and received top honors from&nbsp;True West Magazine&nbsp;as a Top 10 True Western Town of the Year&nbsp;and for the Best Promotion of a Historic Place.

Statewide, the CVB brought home the Travel Industry Association of Kansas Tourism Marketing Awards, winning:

“These awards reflect our commitment to hard work, growth, and creativity in promoting Abilene as a must-visit destination,” Roller Weeks said.

With a team of just 1.5 staff members and annual revenue of under $225,000, the CVB leverages grant funding to amplify its initiatives. In 2024, the CVB secured:

Additionally, collaborative efforts like Kansas Tourism’s Sunflower Summer program brought in more than $150,000&nbsp;in reimbursed admission fees and nearly 10,000 additional visitors&nbsp;to participating local attractions.

“Grants allow us to stretch our resources and create opportunities that benefit both visitors and residents,” Roller Weeks explained.

The CVB’s strategic marketing efforts include a balanced mix of earned media (press releases, blogger and influencer partnerships, and hosting travel writers), owned media (website, blog, e-newsletters, and visitors guides and brochures), shared media (social media and community engagement), and paid advertising (billboards, targeted print, and digital ads). This diverse approach ensures Abilene stays top of mind for travelers near and far.

“It’s important to have a well-rounded marketing plan to make sure visitors find us,” Roller Weeks said. “We cannot place all of our eggs—or dollars—in one basket. Billboards connect with those traveling Kansas I-70, and digital ads reach potential new visitors from around the world.”

The CVB launched several key initiatives in 2024 that kept Abilene in the spotlight, including:

“These projects not only keep Abilene in the news but also give people a reason to visit or return,” Roller Weeks said.

Tourism is a vital economic driver for Abilene. According to the most recent data from Tourism Economics, Dickinson County saw more than $22.2 million&nbsp;in tourism spending in 2023, spanning lodging, food and beverage, retail, recreation, and transportation.

Transient Guest Tax (TGT) revenue—a key indicator of visitor activity—totaled $206,149 in 2024, a 24.31% increase&nbsp;from 2023.

“We’re thrilled to see travel and occupancy growing,” Roller Weeks said. “With the addition of the new Holiday Inn Express and a rebranded property, we’re optimistic about continued growth in 2025 and beyond.”

Tourism is more than an industry in Abilene—it’s part of the community’s identity as the Midwest Tourist Capitol. From the earliest visitors in the 1860s and 1870s traveling the Chisholm Trail or riding the rails to Abilene, to early 1900s guests attending elegant balls at the Seelye Mansion or cheering at Greyhound sporting events, to 1950s visitors exploring the newly opened Eisenhower Museum and the 1960s addition of Old Abilene Town, Abilene has always been a destination worth visiting.

Today, these iconic attractions—along with the Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad, Dickinson County Heritage Center, Great Plains Theatre, a vibrant art scene, and community events—continue to evolve, drawing visitors back time and time again.

“Tourism fuels our local economy, supports jobs, and funds community projects,” Roller Weeks said. “Every visitor leaves a piece of themselves in Abilene, and every dollar they spend helps our community.”

As the year ends, the CVB will release visitation numbers for Abilene’s tourism attractions. With the successes of 2024 as a foundation, the CVB looks forward to continuing to market Abilene as a must-see destination.

“Tourism isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people, stories, and shared experiences. Tourism creates community pride,” Roller Weeks said. “If we create a place where people want to visit, we create a place where people want to live and where business wants to be.”

For more information about Abilene’s tourism efforts, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.abilenekansas.org/">www.AbileneKansas.org</a>&nbsp;or follow Visit Abilene on Facebook.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734466569021.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>ABILENE, KS&nbsp;– As the year draws to a close, the Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) celebrates another year filled with national accolades, exciting projects, and measurable economic growth. Entering her ninth year as Director of the CVB, Julie Roller Weeks reflects on the significance of tourism to Abilene’s identity and economy.“I’m so proud of our progress, and thanks to the work and support of many, the snowball keeps building, and good things continue to come our way,” said Roller Weeks.A Year of AwardsIf success is measured by recognition, Abilene continues to shine. In 2024, the city earned national accolades as a Top 10 Best Historic Small Town&nbsp;by&nbsp;USA TODAY&nbsp;and received top honors from&nbsp;True West Magazine&nbsp;as a Top 10 True Western Town of the Year&nbsp;and for the Best Promotion of a Historic Place.Statewide, the CVB brought home the Travel Industry Association of Kansas Tourism Marketing Awards, winning:<ul>
 <li>Best Community Awareness Campaign (Medium Budget Category)&nbsp;for the World’s Largest “I Like Ike” Button and campaign.</li><li>Best Collaboration Award (Large Budget Category) for its work on the Kansas Gunsmoke Trail with Wichita, Hays, and Dodge City.</li>
 </ul>“These awards reflect our commitment to hard work, growth, and creativity in promoting Abilene as a must-visit destination,” Roller Weeks said.Grant Funding Boosts Local ImpactWith a team of just 1.5 staff members and annual revenue of under $225,000, the CVB leverages grant funding to amplify its initiatives. In 2024, the CVB secured:<ul>
 <li>$9,800&nbsp;through a Kansas Tourism Marketing Grant for the Kansas Gunsmoke Trail.</li><li>$5,000&nbsp;from the Kansas Department of Commerce to launch the Love Abilene campaign.</li>
 </ul>Additionally, collaborative efforts like Kansas Tourism’s Sunflower Summer program brought in more than $150,000&nbsp;in reimbursed admission fees and nearly 10,000 additional visitors&nbsp;to participating local attractions.“Grants allow us to stretch our resources and create opportunities that benefit both visitors and residents,” Roller Weeks explained.Marketing Abilene to VisitorsThe CVB’s strategic marketing efforts include a balanced mix of earned media (press releases, blogger and influencer partnerships, and hosting travel writers), owned media (website, blog, e-newsletters, and visitors guides and brochures), shared media (social media and community engagement), and paid advertising (billboards, targeted print, and digital ads). This diverse approach ensures Abilene stays top of mind for travelers near and far.“It’s important to have a well-rounded marketing plan to make sure visitors find us,” Roller Weeks said. “We cannot place all of our eggs—or dollars—in one basket. Billboards connect with those traveling Kansas I-70, and digital ads reach potential new visitors from around the world.”Special Projects Attract VisitorsThe CVB launched several key initiatives in 2024 that kept Abilene in the spotlight, including:<ul>
 <li>The “See Abilene” art exhibit at the Abilene Public Library, in partnership with “See Parks and Green Spaces.”</li><li>The Kansas Gunsmoke Trail digital passport.</li><li>The World’s Largest “I Like Ike” Button and campaign.</li><li>Collaboration on Kansas’ first America 250 mural in downtown Abilene.</li><li>Updates to the CVB’s photo library and support for the Kansas I-70 Association’s new website launch.</li>
 </ul>“These projects not only keep Abilene in the news but also give people a reason to visit or return,” Roller Weeks said.Tourism’s Economic ImpactTourism is a vital economic driver for Abilene. According to the most recent data from Tourism Economics, Dickinson County saw more than $22.2 million&nbsp;in tourism spending in 2023, spanning lodging, food and beverage, retail, recreation, and transportation.Transient Guest Tax (TGT) revenue—a key indicator of visitor activity—totaled $206,149 in 2024, a 24.31% increase&nbsp;from 2023.“We’re thrilled to see travel and occupancy growing,” Roller Weeks said. “With the addition of the new Holiday Inn Express and a rebranded property, we’re optimistic about continued growth in 2025 and beyond.”Why Abilene Needs TourismTourism is more than an industry in Abilene—it’s part of the community’s identity as the Midwest Tourist Capitol. From the earliest visitors in the 1860s and 1870s traveling the Chisholm Trail or riding the rails to Abilene, to early 1900s guests attending elegant balls at the Seelye Mansion or cheering at Greyhound sporting events, to 1950s visitors exploring the newly opened Eisenhower Museum and the 1960s addition of Old Abilene Town, Abilene has always been a destination worth visiting.Today, these iconic attractions—along with the Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad, Dickinson County Heritage Center, Great Plains Theatre, a vibrant art scene, and community events—continue to evolve, drawing visitors back time and time again.“Tourism fuels our local economy, supports jobs, and funds community projects,” Roller Weeks said. “Every visitor leaves a piece of themselves in Abilene, and every dollar they spend helps our community.”Looking AheadAs the year ends, the CVB will release visitation numbers for Abilene’s tourism attractions. With the successes of 2024 as a foundation, the CVB looks forward to continuing to market Abilene as a must-see destination.“Tourism isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people, stories, and shared experiences. Tourism creates community pride,” Roller Weeks said. “If we create a place where people want to visit, we create a place where people want to live and where business wants to be.”For more information about Abilene’s tourism efforts, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.abilenekansas.org/">www.AbileneKansas.org</a>&nbsp;or follow Visit Abilene on Facebook.

Abilene CVB Reflects on 2024: Tourism’s Impact on Our Community

Matthew Merrill, Failure to appear, arrested 12/13

Jeffrey Buggs, Arrest by LEO, Warrant arrest, arrested 12/13

Cindy Walker, Failure to appear, arrested 12/13

Gabriel Luthi, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 12/14

Trevaughn Lee, DUI-Liquor or drugs, arrested 12/14

Justin Quarles, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 12/14

Damion Thomas,&nbsp;DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 12/14

Aniela Taylor,&nbsp;DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 12/14

Timothy Tichenor,&nbsp;DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 12/14

Eric Hathey, Unlawful damage to property, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution, arrested 12/16

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734468103900.jpeg" alt="David ONeal, Sexual exploitation of a child, Possess media of child &lt;18, arrested 12/13" />
 <figcaption>David ONeal, Sexual exploitation of a child, Possess media of child &lt;18, arrested 12/13</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734468184025.jpeg" alt="Andrew Fuqua, Probation violation, Failure to appear, arrested 12/14" />
 <figcaption>Andrew Fuqua, Probation violation, Failure to appear, arrested 12/14</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734468237468.jpeg" alt="Noel Nji Jehan, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 12/14" />
 <figcaption>Noel Nji Jehan, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 12/14</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734468285886.jpeg" alt="Acadia Waterman, Contribute to a child misconduct, Shelter/conceal a runway, arrested 12/14" />
 <figcaption>Acadia Waterman, Contribute to a child misconduct, Shelter/conceal a runway, arrested 12/14</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734468357881.jpeg" alt="Noel Acevedo -Merced,&nbsp;Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 12/15" />
 <figcaption>Noel Acevedo -Merced,&nbsp;Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 12/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734468399571.jpeg" alt="Levi Nevin, Contribute to a child misconduct, Shelter/conceal a runaway, arrested 12/15" />
 <figcaption>Levi Nevin, Contribute to a child misconduct, Shelter/conceal a runaway, arrested 12/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734468451935.jpeg" alt="Jose Bonilla, Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving, Fleeing or attempting to elude a Law enforcement officer, Theft &gt; $1,500 &lt; $25,000, pocket picking, arrested 12/15" />
 <figcaption>Jose Bonilla, Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving, Fleeing or attempting to elude a Law enforcement officer, Theft &gt; $1,500 &lt; $25,000, pocket picking, arrested 12/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734468536212.jpeg" alt="Frederick Swinson, Theft, Motor vehicle theft, Ignition interlock device, Operate a car without a required license, arrested 12/16" />
 <figcaption>Frederick Swinson, Theft, Motor vehicle theft, Ignition interlock device, Operate a car without a required license, arrested 12/16</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734468595535.jpeg" alt="Ksos Moses, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 12/16" />
 <figcaption>Ksos Moses, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 12/16</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734468621912.jpeg" alt="Soses Moses, Failure to appear, arrested 12/16" />
 <figcaption>Soses Moses, Failure to appear, arrested 12/16</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734468642107.jpeg" alt="Andrew Hodson, Unlawful damage to property, Domestic battery, arrested 12/16" />
 <figcaption>Andrew Hodson, Unlawful damage to property, Domestic battery, arrested 12/16</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Matthew Merrill, Failure to appear, arrested 12/13Jeffrey Buggs, Arrest by LEO, Warrant arrest, arrested 12/13Cindy Walker, Failure to appear, arrested 12/13Gabriel Luthi, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 12/14Trevaughn Lee, DUI-Liquor or drugs, arrested 12/14Justin Quarles, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 12/14Damion Thomas,&nbsp;DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 12/14Aniela Taylor,&nbsp;DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 12/14Timothy Tichenor,&nbsp;DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 12/14Eric Hathey, Unlawful damage to property, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution, arrested 12/16Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos Dec. 14-17

Due to construction issues with administrative offices, the Geary County Sheriff's Office is closed for the remainder of the day.

Due to construction issues with administrative offices, the Geary County Sheriff's Office is closed for the remainder of the day.

Sheriff's Office closes early due to construction issues

The Kansas Department of Transportation has added new features to the KanDrive road and weather information website and mobile app in an effort to improve safety and create an enhanced travel experience for drivers across the state. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The new interactive navigation features were developed as part of the U.S. 83 Advanced Technology Project currently underway, and most will be available for use statewide. The U.S. 83 Corridor Project extends from the southern Finney County line to the northern Thomas County line.

KanDrive already provides real-time travel information including road conditions, closures, camera/video footage and construction and detour information. New features and upgrades that were designed to provide more information to motorists will: &nbsp;

Display oversized truck locations (U.S. 83 Corridor only)

 Send alerts on high wind, low visibility and ice/snow road conditions

 Operate on Amazon Alexa home speaker and app

 Integrate with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

 Improve sharing of information for work zones

More information about KanDrive’s new features and the U.S. 83 Advanced Technology Project can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fike.ksdot.gov%2Fus-83-connected-vehicle-project%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010193d5026cd6-1c35aa5a-f110-47a6-9202-b44b596ba878-000000/ZxKOJDTuANh9KRNOfy7nMp-UvrWcIQLelxMW5c-7cMU=383" target="_blank">https://ike.ksdot.gov/us-83-connected-vehicle-project</a>.

KDOT encourages motorists to use KanDrive to plan trips in advance. Know before you go and visit KanDrive at&nbsp;<a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kandrive.gov%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010193d5026cd6-1c35aa5a-f110-47a6-9202-b44b596ba878-000000/bY2Ea_3PgM1q-Pz93-8gEogDLXBi9Gh-9JwGNWRP8Zk=383" target="_blank">KanDrive.gov</a>&nbsp;or download the app in the App Store or Google Play.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691675866537.jpeg" alt="KanDrive" />
 <figcaption>KanDrive</figcaption>
 </figure>By CHERYL CADUE KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation has added new features to the KanDrive road and weather information website and mobile app in an effort to improve safety and create an enhanced travel experience for drivers across the state. &nbsp;&nbsp;The new interactive navigation features were developed as part of the U.S. 83 Advanced Technology Project currently underway, and most will be available for use statewide. The U.S. 83 Corridor Project extends from the southern Finney County line to the northern Thomas County line.KanDrive already provides real-time travel information including road conditions, closures, camera/video footage and construction and detour information. New features and upgrades that were designed to provide more information to motorists will: &nbsp;Display oversized truck locations (U.S. 83 Corridor only) Send alerts on high wind, low visibility and ice/snow road conditions Operate on Amazon Alexa home speaker and app Integrate with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay Enhance detour information Improve sharing of information for work zonesMore information about KanDrive’s new features and the U.S. 83 Advanced Technology Project can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fike.ksdot.gov%2Fus-83-connected-vehicle-project%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010193d5026cd6-1c35aa5a-f110-47a6-9202-b44b596ba878-000000/ZxKOJDTuANh9KRNOfy7nMp-UvrWcIQLelxMW5c-7cMU=383" target="_blank">https://ike.ksdot.gov/us-83-connected-vehicle-project</a>.KDOT encourages motorists to use KanDrive to plan trips in advance. Know before you go and visit KanDrive at&nbsp;<a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kandrive.gov%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010193d5026cd6-1c35aa5a-f110-47a6-9202-b44b596ba878-000000/bY2Ea_3PgM1q-Pz93-8gEogDLXBi9Gh-9JwGNWRP8Zk=383" target="_blank">KanDrive.gov</a>&nbsp;or download the app in the App Store or Google Play.

KDOT enhances KanDrive with new safety and travel features for drivers

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/allison-kite/">ALLISON KITE</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

Members of Kansas’ congressional delegation celebrated the federal government’s decision Monday to remove a proposed electric transmission line route from a program offering assistance for power infrastructure projects.

The U.S. Department of Energy earlier this year announced a list of preliminary “<a href="https://www.energy.gov/gdo/national-interest-electric-transmission-corridor-designation-process" target="_blank">National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors</a>” to offer financial assistance and permits to transmission line builders in areas with little infrastructure.

One of the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/09/27/transmission-line-developer-asks-for-narrower-corridor-through-kansas-nearby-states/">corridors the agency initially proposed</a>&nbsp;was the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/tag/grain-belt-express/" target="_blank">Grain Belt Express</a>, a 5,000-megawatt transmission line expected to run from Kansas to Indiana proposed by Chicago-based Invenergy. The Grain Belt route was dropped from the program when the Department of Energy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.energy.gov/gdo/articles/biden-harris-administration-announces-three-high-priority-areas-advancing-national" target="_blank">narrowed the proposed corridors Monday</a>.

U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican, said the program “represented a dangerous overreach of federal authority,” and on Monday took credit for the Department of Energy’s removal of the Grain Belt route.

“We are glad to report that we won this battle, and Kansans voices were heard at the highest levels,” he said.

But the Department of Energy’s decision Monday will not keep the Grain Belt Express transmission line from being built. While the agency’s program helps obtain permits for transmission projects that can’t get state approval, Invenergy has already obtained state approvals for Grain Belt.

“This designation was not required for the project to continue to advance toward construction,” said Patrick Whitty, senior vice president of public affairs for transmission at Invenergy.

Whitty said in a statement that Invenergy, too, asked that the Grain Belt route be removed from consideration for the Department of Energy program and was pleased the agency listened.

Grain Belt Express is expected to run from southwest Kansas&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/07/11/grain-belt-express-announces-expansion-that-means-more-clean-energy-for-missouri/" target="_blank">carrying renewable energy through Missouri</a>&nbsp;and Illinois before ending at the Indiana border. To do so, the line has to cross thousands of properties and needs easements on landowners’ properties across three states.

Invenergy says it has obtained the vast majority of those easements through voluntary negotiations with landowners. For the rest, the project was granted the right of eminent domain, a legal mechanism that allows utilities and governments to take land or easements from unwilling landowners and compensate them.

Grain Belt’s&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/06/08/missouri-governor-to-sign-compromise-legislation-after-efforts-to-stymie-grain-belt-express/" target="_blank">ability to use eminent domain has drawn the ire</a>&nbsp;of Republican lawmakers and farm groups who&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/04/19/grain-belt-transmission-line-forges-ahead-amid-landowner-lawmaker-pushback/" target="_blank">fought to undermine the project at the Missouri General Assembly</a>&nbsp;for years.

Now federal lawmakers from Kansas, including Marshall, Sen. Jerry Moran and Rep. Tracey Mann are railing against the project.

Mann called Monday’s announcement a “huge win for Kansans.”

“Kansans made it clear from the very beginning that we were not interested in the federal government seizing our private land,” Mann said.

Moran said the decision to allow projects like Grain Belt Express “should be left up to Kansans, not Washington.”

In Missouri, U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley has taken issue with a $4.9 billion&nbsp;<a href="https://www.energy.gov/lpo/articles/lpo-announces-conditional-commitment-grain-belt-express-construct-high-voltage-direct" target="_blank">loan the Department of Energy offered to the Grain Belt project</a>.

<a href="https://www.hawley.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Hawley-Letter-to-Biden-Energy-Department-re-Grain-Belt-Express.pdf" target="_blank">Hawley wrote a letter</a>&nbsp;to U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm saying the Grain Belt line will wreak havoc on landowners.

“Your decision to commit funding to the Grain Belt Express via conditional loan comes after repeated refusals to engage with my constituents,” Hawley said, “who live in constant fear of their land being confiscated.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734452717911.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/allison-kite/">ALLISON KITE</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>Members of Kansas’ congressional delegation celebrated the federal government’s decision Monday to remove a proposed electric transmission line route from a program offering assistance for power infrastructure projects.But the project will still move forward.The U.S. Department of Energy earlier this year announced a list of preliminary “<a href="https://www.energy.gov/gdo/national-interest-electric-transmission-corridor-designation-process" target="_blank">National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors</a>” to offer financial assistance and permits to transmission line builders in areas with little infrastructure.One of the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/09/27/transmission-line-developer-asks-for-narrower-corridor-through-kansas-nearby-states/">corridors the agency initially proposed</a>&nbsp;was the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/tag/grain-belt-express/" target="_blank">Grain Belt Express</a>, a 5,000-megawatt transmission line expected to run from Kansas to Indiana proposed by Chicago-based Invenergy. The Grain Belt route was dropped from the program when the Department of Energy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.energy.gov/gdo/articles/biden-harris-administration-announces-three-high-priority-areas-advancing-national" target="_blank">narrowed the proposed corridors Monday</a>.U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican, said the program “represented a dangerous overreach of federal authority,” and on Monday took credit for the Department of Energy’s removal of the Grain Belt route.“We are glad to report that we won this battle, and Kansans voices were heard at the highest levels,” he said.But the Department of Energy’s decision Monday will not keep the Grain Belt Express transmission line from being built. While the agency’s program helps obtain permits for transmission projects that can’t get state approval, Invenergy has already obtained state approvals for Grain Belt.“This designation was not required for the project to continue to advance toward construction,” said Patrick Whitty, senior vice president of public affairs for transmission at Invenergy.Whitty said in a statement that Invenergy, too, asked that the Grain Belt route be removed from consideration for the Department of Energy program and was pleased the agency listened.Grain Belt Express is expected to run from southwest Kansas&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/07/11/grain-belt-express-announces-expansion-that-means-more-clean-energy-for-missouri/" target="_blank">carrying renewable energy through Missouri</a>&nbsp;and Illinois before ending at the Indiana border. To do so, the line has to cross thousands of properties and needs easements on landowners’ properties across three states.Invenergy says it has obtained the vast majority of those easements through voluntary negotiations with landowners. For the rest, the project was granted the right of eminent domain, a legal mechanism that allows utilities and governments to take land or easements from unwilling landowners and compensate them.Grain Belt’s&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/06/08/missouri-governor-to-sign-compromise-legislation-after-efforts-to-stymie-grain-belt-express/" target="_blank">ability to use eminent domain has drawn the ire</a>&nbsp;of Republican lawmakers and farm groups who&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/04/19/grain-belt-transmission-line-forges-ahead-amid-landowner-lawmaker-pushback/" target="_blank">fought to undermine the project at the Missouri General Assembly</a>&nbsp;for years.Now federal lawmakers from Kansas, including Marshall, Sen. Jerry Moran and Rep. Tracey Mann are railing against the project.Mann called Monday’s announcement a “huge win for Kansans.”“Kansans made it clear from the very beginning that we were not interested in the federal government seizing our private land,” Mann said.Moran said the decision to allow projects like Grain Belt Express “should be left up to Kansans, not Washington.”In Missouri, U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley has taken issue with a $4.9 billion&nbsp;<a href="https://www.energy.gov/lpo/articles/lpo-announces-conditional-commitment-grain-belt-express-construct-high-voltage-direct" target="_blank">loan the Department of Energy offered to the Grain Belt project</a>.<a href="https://www.hawley.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Hawley-Letter-to-Biden-Energy-Department-re-Grain-Belt-Express.pdf" target="_blank">Hawley wrote a letter</a>&nbsp;to U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm saying the Grain Belt line will wreak havoc on landowners.“Your decision to commit funding to the Grain Belt Express via conditional loan comes after repeated refusals to engage with my constituents,” Hawley said, “who live in constant fear of their land being confiscated.”

Grain Belt route removed from federal transmission program — but project will go forward

JUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;– Geary County Schools USD 475 and the Junction City Education Association are proud to announce that Westwood Elementary kindergarten teacher Stephanie Sowell and Fort Riley Middle School sixth grade language arts teacher Mary McConnell have been named the district’s nominees for the&nbsp;Kansas Master Teacher&nbsp;Award.

Sowell was named the USD 475 Elementary Master Teacher Award nominee, while McConnell claimed the Secondary Master Teacher Award nomination. By being named USD 475’s Master Teacher Award winners, Sowell and McConnell both received a $500 check on Monday from Sunflower Bank of Junction City. The duo will also be recognized at an upcoming Board of Education meeting.

To be selected,&nbsp;the Master Teacher must be a member of Junction City Education Association and chosen by a committee comprised of previous district Master Teachers who still teach in USD 475.

Overall, USD 475 has had 11 individuals selected as a Kansas Master Teacher by Emporia State University in its history. Since 2022, the district has had at least one USD 475 teacher claim the prestigious honor as Bryan Scruggs (2022), Melissa Hall (2023) and Jennifer Fallin (2024) were all named a member of the Kansas Master Teachers.

Emporia State University established the Kansas Master Teacher awards in 1954.&nbsp;The awards are presented annually to selected teachers who demonstrate the attributes of exemplary professional educators.&nbsp;

JUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;– Geary County Schools USD 475 and the Junction City Education Association are proud to announce that Westwood Elementary kindergarten teacher Stephanie Sowell and Fort Riley Middle School sixth grade language arts teacher Mary McConnell have been named the district’s nominees for the&nbsp;Kansas Master Teacher&nbsp;Award.Sowell was named the USD 475 Elementary Master Teacher Award nominee, while McConnell claimed the Secondary Master Teacher Award nomination. By being named USD 475’s Master Teacher Award winners, Sowell and McConnell both received a $500 check on Monday from Sunflower Bank of Junction City. The duo will also be recognized at an upcoming Board of Education meeting.To be selected,&nbsp;the Master Teacher must be a member of Junction City Education Association and chosen by a committee comprised of previous district Master Teachers who still teach in USD 475.Overall, USD 475 has had 11 individuals selected as a Kansas Master Teacher by Emporia State University in its history. Since 2022, the district has had at least one USD 475 teacher claim the prestigious honor as Bryan Scruggs (2022), Melissa Hall (2023) and Jennifer Fallin (2024) were all named a member of the Kansas Master Teachers.Emporia State University established the Kansas Master Teacher awards in 1954.&nbsp;The awards are presented annually to selected teachers who demonstrate the attributes of exemplary professional educators.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734384994972.jpeg" alt="Stephanie Sowell" />
 <figcaption>Stephanie Sowell</figcaption>
 </figure>Sowell, who is in her 12th year of teaching in USD 475 and is a Manhattan native, brings a wealth of passion, fun, creativity and expertise to the classroom as she has taught kindergarten at Westwood Elementary for six years. She began teaching in the district at Seitz Elementary and has served on several tasks force teams during her tenure.“Teaching is such a passion. To be recognized for doing what you love is truly an honor. It is such a special day for me and I’m so happy that I was able to have all my kids be able to see it. It was truly awesome and so special that everyone was able to be here to see this,” said Sowell.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734385044589.jpeg" alt="Mary McConnell" />
 <figcaption>Mary McConnell</figcaption>
 </figure>McConnell, a Tennessee native, has been in the district and at Fort Riley Middle School for eight years. She spends her days in the classroom not only making a difference, but also challenging her sixth-grade ELA students by helping them grow daily through student-centered lessons. Prior to coming to Fort Riley, McConnell taught for two years in Tennessee before subbing at FRMS during the 2017 school year.“It’s exciting to be a nominee for the Kansas Master Teacher Award. Our building has had a nominee each of the last four years, so it is kind of crazy that I was chosen to be the next one in a long line of awesome people. I feel very honored,” said McConnell.The Kansas Master Teacher Award nomination portal opened Oct. 11, 2024. Nominations will close at 5 p.m. on Jan. 10, 2025. Through the support of the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, each Master Teacher chosen will be presented with a check for $1,000 and will be highlighted at Emporia State's Master Teacher Day on Wednesday, April 2.The seven state-wide recipients will be selected by a nine-member committee including representatives from the Kansas Association of Principals, Kansas Association of School Boards, Kansas State Board of Education, Kansas Parent Teacher Organization, Kansas National Education Association, United School Administrators, ESU’s Kappa Delta Pi student organization and representatives of past Kansas Master Teacher classes.Previous USD 475 Master Teacher Honorees&nbsp;1961 - Jane E. Roether (Junction City)1988 - Bonnie Weingart (Fort Riley)1989 - Ada Ligia R. Paquette (Junction City)1992 - Beth Bergsten (Junction City)2007 - Angela Miller (Junction City)2012 - Jodi Testa (Junction City)2016 -&nbsp;Carol Settgast (Geary County)2017 -&nbsp;Joan Hayden (Geary County)2022 - Bryan Scruggs (Geary County)2023 - Melissa Hall (Geary County)2024 -&nbsp;Jennifer Fallin (Geary County)&nbsp;&nbsp;