RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects including a Kansas felon on drug allegations.

Just after 6p.m. Thursday the Riley County Police Department, with the assistance of the Geary County Sheriff’s Office, conducted an investigation into the distribution of fentanyl, in the 1500 block of Houston Street in Manhattan, according to a media release.

Officers arrested Catrien Van Petten, 35, of Manhattan on requested charges of possession of paraphernalia with the intent to manufacture a controlled substance, use/possession with the intent to use drug paraphernalia into the human body, distribution of opiates/narcotics/certain stimulants/heroin dose &gt; 1000 within 1000 feet of a school, possession of marijuana- two or more prior convictions, and distribution of opiate/narcotic/ certain stimulant/ heroin 3.5 - &lt; 100 grams within 1000 feet of a school.

Catrien Van Petten has ten previous convictions for burglary, theft, ID theft, forgery and drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

Nathan McClurg, 34, of Tipton, Kansas was arrested in the 1500 block of Colorado Street in connection with the same investigation. McClurg was arrested on requested charges of possession of opiate/opium/narcotic/ certain stimulant, possession of marijuana- 1 prior conviction, use/possession with the intent to use drug paraphernalia into the human body, possession of paraphernalia with the intent to manufacture controlled substance, and distribution of opiate/narcotic/certain stimulant/ heroin dose &gt; 1000 within 1000 feet of a school. 

He has previous felony convictions for theft, making a false writing and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Van Petten and McClurg are each being held on a total bond of $100,000, according to the RCPD.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717078422006.jpeg" alt="Catrien Van Petten has ten previous convictions for burglary, theft, ID theft, forgery and drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Catrien Van Petten has ten previous convictions for burglary, theft, ID theft, forgery and drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects including a Kansas felon on drug allegations.Just after 6p.m. Thursday the Riley County Police Department, with the assistance of the Geary County Sheriff’s Office, conducted an investigation into the distribution of fentanyl, in the 1500 block of Houston Street in Manhattan, according to a media release.Officers arrested Catrien Van Petten, 35, of Manhattan on requested charges of possession of paraphernalia with the intent to manufacture a controlled substance, use/possession with the intent to use drug paraphernalia into the human body, distribution of opiates/narcotics/certain stimulants/heroin dose &gt; 1000 within 1000 feet of a school, possession of marijuana- two or more prior convictions, and distribution of opiate/narcotic/ certain stimulant/ heroin 3.5 - &lt; 100 grams within 1000 feet of a school.Catrien Van Petten has ten previous convictions for burglary, theft, ID theft, forgery and drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.Nathan McClurg, 34, of Tipton, Kansas was arrested in the 1500 block of Colorado Street in connection with the same investigation. McClurg was arrested on requested charges of possession of opiate/opium/narcotic/ certain stimulant, possession of marijuana- 1 prior conviction, use/possession with the intent to use drug paraphernalia into the human body, possession of paraphernalia with the intent to manufacture controlled substance, and distribution of opiate/narcotic/certain stimulant/ heroin dose &gt; 1000 within 1000 feet of a school. He has previous felony convictions for theft, making a false writing and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.Van Petten and McClurg are each being held on a total bond of $100,000, according to the RCPD.

Kansas felons accused of selling fentanyl in Manhattan

Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert reminds that Monday June 3rd at Noon is the last day to change your party affiliation prior to the August Primary Election.

Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert reminds that Monday June 3rd at Noon is the last day to change your party affiliation prior to the August Primary Election.

County Clerk submits an election reminder

Late Monday morning Geary County Sheriff's Deputies responded to I-70 Westbound mile marker 291 for a single vehicle accident. The Sheriff's Department said Patricia Pierce-Southern of Abilene was traveling westbound in a 2003 Subaru Forrester when she lost control of her vehicle, causing her to strike the mile marker sign and the guardrail. Minor injuries were reported. The vehicle was removed by Gross Wrecker.

Late Monday morning Geary County Sheriff's Deputies responded to I-70 Westbound mile marker 291 for a single vehicle accident. The Sheriff's Department said Patricia Pierce-Southern of Abilene was traveling westbound in a 2003 Subaru Forrester when she lost control of her vehicle, causing her to strike the mile marker sign and the guardrail. Minor injuries were reported. The vehicle was removed by Gross Wrecker.

   Deputies work an accident                

The Junction City Brigade will open their 2024 season at 7 p.m. Thursday night at Hummer Sports Park in&nbsp; the capitol city against the Topeka Warhawks. They will play their home opener against the Warhawks at 7 p.m. Friday at Rathert Field.

In his message to the team General Manager Cecil Aska pointed to the history of the Brigade that includes being the first team to win a title, and then three titles in a row in the Mid Plains League. They are defending champions this season. "It's about you guys pushing yourself and being the first to do things."

An assistant coach at Barton County Community College, Chandler Bloomer, has been hired to serve as the new head coach for the Brigade. He's excited to learn about the Brigade. "I've heard so many good things about past players and Cecil."

Promotions at the ballpark this season will include five fireworks shows Different food vendors will also be serving their products. The Mid Plains League All Star Game will be played July 20 at Rathert Field.

Tickets to the games are $5 for adults, $3 for students, $3 for those with a college ID and children under five will be admitted free.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655811104614.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Junction City Brigade will open their 2024 season at 7 p.m. Thursday night at Hummer Sports Park in&nbsp; the capitol city against the Topeka Warhawks. They will play their home opener against the Warhawks at 7 p.m. Friday at Rathert Field.In his message to the team General Manager Cecil Aska pointed to the history of the Brigade that includes being the first team to win a title, and then three titles in a row in the Mid Plains League. They are defending champions this season. "It's about you guys pushing yourself and being the first to do things."An assistant coach at Barton County Community College, Chandler Bloomer, has been hired to serve as the new head coach for the Brigade. He's excited to learn about the Brigade. "I've heard so many good things about past players and Cecil."Promotions at the ballpark this season will include five fireworks shows Different food vendors will also be serving their products. The Mid Plains League All Star Game will be played July 20 at Rathert Field.Tickets to the games are $5 for adults, $3 for students, $3 for those with a college ID and children under five will be admitted free.

Play ball!

Geary County Emergency Management Director

Geary County hosted Pottawatomie County Officials Wednesday to discuss the tornado and Pottawatomie County's response on Tuesday, April 30th. Representatives from Junction City, Geary County and Grandview Plaza were present.

The workshop dealt with the different agencies responses to the tornado scene, along with how they handled different parts of the response. Later this year, the Geary County Emergency Operations Plan is scheduled to be reviewed and updated.&nbsp; Lessons learned from the meeting will be in the update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717013846101.jpeg" alt="&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Garry BergesGeary County Emergency Management DirectorGeary County hosted Pottawatomie County Officials Wednesday to discuss the tornado and Pottawatomie County's response on Tuesday, April 30th. Representatives from Junction City, Geary County and Grandview Plaza were present.The workshop dealt with the different agencies responses to the tornado scene, along with how they handled different parts of the response. Later this year, the Geary County Emergency Operations Plan is scheduled to be reviewed and updated.&nbsp; Lessons learned from the meeting will be in the update.

Tornado response lessons were topic of emergency management session

The Junction City Brigade has released the full schedule for the 2024 season.&nbsp;

Ticket information:&nbsp;Home game tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for kids. Ages five and under are free. Other ticket discounts are in place for Military and Seniors.&nbsp;

The full 2024 schedule is below - (Home games are in bold)

May 31 (7:00 p.m.) - Topeka Warhawks

June 5 (7:00 p.m.) - Kansas Curves

June 10 (7:00 p.m.) - Topeka Warhawks

June 13 (7:00 p.m.) - Baldwin City Blues

June 15 (7:00 p.m.) -&nbsp;Baldwin City Blues

June 17&nbsp;(7:00 p.m.) -&nbsp;Baldwin City Blues

July 2 (7:00 p.m.) - Baldwin City Blues

July 7 (6:00 p.m.) - US Military WarDogs

July 11 (7:00 p.m.) - Topeka Warhawks

July 13 (7:00 p.m.) -&nbsp;&nbsp;Topeka Warhawks

July 17 (7:00 p.m.) - Great Bend Bat Cats

July 20 (7:00 p.m.) - MPL All Star Game

The Junction City Brigade has released the full schedule for the 2024 season.&nbsp;Ticket information:&nbsp;Home game tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for kids. Ages five and under are free. Other ticket discounts are in place for Military and Seniors.&nbsp;The full 2024 schedule is below - (Home games are in bold)May 30 - @ Topeka WarhawksMay 31 (7:00 p.m.) - Topeka WarhawksJune 1 -&nbsp;@ Topeka WarhawksJune 3 (7:00 p.m.) - Blue Wahoo'sJune 5 (7:00 p.m.) - Kansas CurvesJune 6 (7:00 p.m.) - Midwest A'sJune 7 - @ Midwest A'sJune 8 (7:00 p.m.) - Midwest A'sJune 10 (7:00 p.m.) - Topeka WarhawksJune 11 - @ Topeka WarhawksJune 12 - @ KC MonarchsJune 13 (7:00 p.m.) - Baldwin City BluesJune 14 - @ Baldwin City BluesJune 15 (7:00 p.m.) -&nbsp;Baldwin City BluesJune 17&nbsp;(7:00 p.m.) -&nbsp;Baldwin City BluesJune 18 -@ Baldwin City BluesJune 20 - @ Great Bend Bat CatsJune 21 (7:00 p.m.) - KC KnightsJune 22 (7:00 p.m.) - KC MonarchsJune 24 (7:00 p.m.) - Hays LarksJune 26 (7:00 p.m.) - KC MonarchsJune 27 - @ Midwest A'sJune 28 (7:00 p.m.) - Midwest A'sJune 29 - @ Midwest A'sJuly 1 - @ Baldwin City BluesJuly 2 (7:00 p.m.) - Baldwin City BluesJuly 3 -&nbsp;@ Baldwin City BluesJuly 4 - @ Hays LarksJuly 6 (7:00 p.m.) - KC KnightsJuly 7 (6:00 p.m.) - US Military WarDogsJuly 8 (7:00 p.m.) - Midwest A'sJuly 9 - @ Midwest A'sJuly 11 (7:00 p.m.) - Topeka WarhawksJuly 12 - @ Topeka WarhawksJuly 13 (7:00 p.m.) -&nbsp;&nbsp;Topeka WarhawksJuly 17 (7:00 p.m.) - Great Bend Bat CatsJuly 20 (7:00 p.m.) - MPL All Star GameJuly 22-24 Playoffs (TBD)July 26-28 Cowdin Cup (TBD)

Junction City Brigade full 2024 schedule

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.

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

Samuel Umling, Failure to appear, arrested 05/28

Scott Beanblossom, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 05/28

Juan Mendoza, Unlawful restraint, arrested 05/28

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/2024/5/1717012083193.jpeg" alt="JC Hunt, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Taxation-Drugs, No drug tax stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Distribute controlled substance, arrested 05/28" />
 <figcaption>JC Hunt, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Taxation-Drugs, No drug tax stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Distribute controlled substance, arrested 05/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717012213897.jpeg" alt="Deborah Young, Outside warrant, Probation violation, arrested 05/28" />
 <figcaption>Deborah Young, Outside warrant, Probation violation, arrested 05/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717012266267.jpeg" alt="Jesse Lynn, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, Outside warrant, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 05/28" />
 <figcaption>Jesse Lynn, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, Outside warrant, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 05/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717012352335.jpeg" alt="Bard Ditto, Failure to appear (Three counts), arrested 05/28" />
 <figcaption>Bard Ditto, Failure to appear (Three counts), arrested 05/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717012407537.jpeg" alt="Osiel Garcia-Samaniego, Failure to appear, arrested 05/28" />
 <figcaption>Osiel Garcia-Samaniego, Failure to appear, arrested 05/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717012447054.jpeg" alt="William Mitchell, Possession of marijuana, Driving while suspended, Unlawful to acquire proceeds from drug transaction value &lt;$5,000, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Taxation-Drugs, No drug stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Possession of marijuana, Distribute controlled substance, arrested 05/28" />
 <figcaption>William Mitchell, Possession of marijuana, Driving while suspended, Unlawful to acquire proceeds from drug transaction value &lt;$5,000, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Taxation-Drugs, No drug stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Possession of marijuana, Distribute controlled substance, arrested 05/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717012682594.jpeg" alt="Kacey Selby, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Taxation-Drugs, No drug tax stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Possession of marijuana, Distribute controlled substance, arrested 05/28" />
 <figcaption>Kacey Selby, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Taxation-Drugs, No drug tax stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Possession of marijuana, Distribute controlled substance, arrested 05/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717012778673.jpeg" alt="Ethan Boni, Domestic battery, arrested 05/29" />
 <figcaption>Ethan Boni, Domestic battery, arrested 05/29</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Samuel Umling, Failure to appear, arrested 05/28Scott Beanblossom, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 05/28Juan Mendoza, Unlawful restraint, arrested 05/28Recent 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 May 29

There will be a Change of Command for the Second Armored Brigade Combat Team "Dagger" at the Fort Riley Cavalry Parade Field on Thursday at 9:30 a.m.

Maj. Gen. John V. Meyer, Commanding General of the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley will host the change of command ceremony, as Col. Bryan Harris relinquishes command to Col. Landgrave Smith.

Col. Harris has served as the 2ABCT commander since May 2022. His next assignment will be at Fort Knox, Kentucky, as the Deputy Chief to The Adjutant General (TAG).

Col. Smith recently finished his assignment as the Division Chief, Global Integration Division under the Joint Staff J5 Deputy Directorate for Global Integration (DDGI).&nbsp;

Fort Riley releaseThere will be a Change of Command for the Second Armored Brigade Combat Team "Dagger" at the Fort Riley Cavalry Parade Field on Thursday at 9:30 a.m.Maj. Gen. John V. Meyer, Commanding General of the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley will host the change of command ceremony, as Col. Bryan Harris relinquishes command to Col. Landgrave Smith.Col. Harris has served as the 2ABCT commander since May 2022. His next assignment will be at Fort Knox, Kentucky, as the Deputy Chief to The Adjutant General (TAG).Col. Smith recently finished his assignment as the Division Chief, Global Integration Division under the Joint Staff J5 Deputy Directorate for Global Integration (DDGI).&nbsp;C

"Dagger" Change of Command

&nbsp;Geary County USD 475 staff members can join the Junction City Brigade for USD 475 Night at the Ballpark at Rathert Field on Friday, May 31 at 7 p.m.

Any USD 475 staff member with a valid ID will be able to bring their family to the game for $1.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Brigade are playing the Topeka Warhawks in the ballgame.

&nbsp;Geary County USD 475 staff members can join the Junction City Brigade for USD 475 Night at the Ballpark at Rathert Field on Friday, May 31 at 7 p.m.Any USD 475 staff member with a valid ID will be able to bring their family to the game for $1.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Brigade are playing the Topeka Warhawks in the ballgame.

USD 475 Night at the Ballpark

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club met in Jim Clark’s Chevrolet showroom on Wednesday to learn about the regional juvenile Detention Center. Angela Hamilton, Assistant Director of the North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Center was the guest speaker.

Angela shared that she “attended Emporia State University in a teacher education program following high school and worked as a dispatcher at the Emporia Police Department. It was that job that inspired her to get a degree in Criminal Justice and she transferred to Kansas State University. She later became a Probation Officer and is now working as the Assistant Director at the Detention Center in Junction City.”

There are 28 beds in the Center. Eight of those beds are reserved for CINC’s (Child In Need Of Care). Angela stated that “a judge may require a juvenile to be confined in the facility for 48 hours up to a year depending on the reason for confinement and the judge’s release. USD 475 provides for educating young people at the Center except those in the Secure Care side.” Donna Shell is the only teacher in the facility and is responsible for a curriculum that ranges from elementary through high school.

Education is an important part of the process to break the cycle of drug use, theft, assault, aggravated assault, and other violent crimes. “As many as three high school credits may be earned in six months. These young people have been dealt a terrible hand. Parents (and peers) teach them to use meth, fentanyl and commit crimes.”

Angela also said “I love my job. I get to help people who can’t help themselves. I get to teach them how to wash clothes, wash dishes, make and use a financial budget, (get along with others), and clean after themselves.” These are things many detainees have never learned.

By Dr. Ferrell MillerThe JC Breakfast Optimist Club met in Jim Clark’s Chevrolet showroom on Wednesday to learn about the regional juvenile Detention Center. Angela Hamilton, Assistant Director of the North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Center was the guest speaker.Angela shared that she “attended Emporia State University in a teacher education program following high school and worked as a dispatcher at the Emporia Police Department. It was that job that inspired her to get a degree in Criminal Justice and she transferred to Kansas State University. She later became a Probation Officer and is now working as the Assistant Director at the Detention Center in Junction City.”There are 28 beds in the Center. Eight of those beds are reserved for CINC’s (Child In Need Of Care). Angela stated that “a judge may require a juvenile to be confined in the facility for 48 hours up to a year depending on the reason for confinement and the judge’s release. USD 475 provides for educating young people at the Center except those in the Secure Care side.” Donna Shell is the only teacher in the facility and is responsible for a curriculum that ranges from elementary through high school.Education is an important part of the process to break the cycle of drug use, theft, assault, aggravated assault, and other violent crimes. “As many as three high school credits may be earned in six months. These young people have been dealt a terrible hand. Parents (and peers) teach them to use meth, fentanyl and commit crimes.”Angela also said “I love my job. I get to help people who can’t help themselves. I get to teach them how to wash clothes, wash dishes, make and use a financial budget, (get along with others), and clean after themselves.” These are things many detainees have never learned.

JC Breakfast Optimist Club Learns About the Juvenile Detention Center

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

Just before 11:30a.m. Tuesday, police arrested 55-year-old Bradford Brown of Junction City, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report/

 Brown was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for violation of the offender registration act, 2nd conviction.&nbsp; Brown has been listed a registered offender since 2001 for a conviction in 1997 for aggravated sexual battery in Barber County and in 2007 for aggravated indecent liberties with a child in Butler County, according to the KBI Offender Registry.&nbsp;

Total bond was set at $25,000. He is no longer in custody, according to the RCPD.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716992503333.png" alt="Brown photo KBI Offender Registry" />
 <figcaption>Brown photo KBI Offender Registry</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a registered offender on new allegations.Just before 11:30a.m. Tuesday, police arrested 55-year-old Bradford Brown of Junction City, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report/ Brown was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for violation of the offender registration act, 2nd conviction.&nbsp; Brown has been listed a registered offender since 2001 for a conviction in 1997 for aggravated sexual battery in Barber County and in 2007 for aggravated indecent liberties with a child in Butler County, according to the KBI Offender Registry.&nbsp;Total bond was set at $25,000. He is no longer in custody, according to the RCPD.

RCPD: Junction City man jailed for offender registry violation

TOPEKA —Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab said on Friday that United Kansas has met the statutory requirements to become an officially recognized political party in Kansas.

United Kansas met the requirements by submitting a petition containing the signatures of registered voters equal to 2 percent of the total votes cast in the 2022 statewide gubernatorial general election. The signatures on the petition were validated by county election officials who reported their results to the Secretary of State’s office, as required by K.S.A&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch25/025_003_0002a.html" target="_blank">25-302a</a>.

The last political party to achieve recognition in Kansas was No Labels Kansas in January 2024.

United Kansas joins No Labels Kansas and the Libertarian Party, recognized in 1992, as a minor political party. It cannot participate in the August primary election and instead must nominate candidates for the November general election via convention or caucus by noon on June 3. A minor party can become a major party and be entitled to nominate its general election candidates at the August primary if its candidate for governor receives more than 5 percent of the statewide vote.

With the official recognition of United Kansas, the party is eligible to register voters under its affiliation and nominate candidates for public office as described in K.S.A.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch25/025_003_0001.html" target="_blank">25-301</a>. Kansas voter registration forms have been modified to reflect United Kansas as an option for voter affiliation.

To learn more about the United Kansas Party visit its website&nbsp;<a href="https://unitedkansas.com/about">here.</a>&nbsp;

For more information about elections, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://votekansas.gov/">VoteKansas.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716988028960.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab said on Friday that United Kansas has met the statutory requirements to become an officially recognized political party in Kansas.United Kansas met the requirements by submitting a petition containing the signatures of registered voters equal to 2 percent of the total votes cast in the 2022 statewide gubernatorial general election. The signatures on the petition were validated by county election officials who reported their results to the Secretary of State’s office, as required by K.S.A&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch25/025_003_0002a.html" target="_blank">25-302a</a>.The last political party to achieve recognition in Kansas was No Labels Kansas in January 2024.United Kansas joins No Labels Kansas and the Libertarian Party, recognized in 1992, as a minor political party. It cannot participate in the August primary election and instead must nominate candidates for the November general election via convention or caucus by noon on June 3. A minor party can become a major party and be entitled to nominate its general election candidates at the August primary if its candidate for governor receives more than 5 percent of the statewide vote.With the official recognition of United Kansas, the party is eligible to register voters under its affiliation and nominate candidates for public office as described in K.S.A.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch25/025_003_0001.html" target="_blank">25-301</a>. Kansas voter registration forms have been modified to reflect United Kansas as an option for voter affiliation.To learn more about the United Kansas Party visit its website&nbsp;<a href="https://unitedkansas.com/about">here.</a>&nbsp;For more information about elections, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://votekansas.gov/">VoteKansas.gov</a>.

Meet Kansas' newest political party — United Kansas

KHP personnel assisted 532 motorists over the holiday reporting&nbsp;period.

The Kansas Highway Patrol is releasing its Memorial Day Weekend Holiday Activity Report. The reporting period for the holiday weekend ran from 6 p.m. on Friday, May 24 through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, May 27, 2024.

The Kansas Highway Patrol worked one fatal non-DUI related crash with three non-DUI related fatalities during the holiday reporting period.

Information in the table is compared to data from 2022 and 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700519674806.jpeg" alt="Image KHP" />
 <figcaption>Image KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedKHP personnel assisted 532 motorists over the holiday reporting&nbsp;period.The Kansas Highway Patrol is releasing its Memorial Day Weekend Holiday Activity Report. The reporting period for the holiday weekend ran from 6 p.m. on Friday, May 24 through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, May 27, 2024.The Kansas Highway Patrol worked one fatal non-DUI related crash with three non-DUI related fatalities during the holiday reporting period.Information in the table is compared to data from 2022 and 2023.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716930872120.png" alt="Image Courtesy KHP" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>

KHP reports Memorial Day Weekend holiday activity

Pawnee Mental Health continues its mission of delivering prompt and accessible mental health services to Geary and Clay counties through the establishment of its Same Day Access Team, led by Kendra Stuke.

Dr. Kendra Stuke brings over 25 years of diverse clinical experience to her role as Access Manager at Pawnee Mental Health. In this position, she will oversee the intake therapist team, ensuring efficient and excellent service delivery. Dr. Stuke's responsibilities include talent recruitment, ongoing training, and support to maintain high care standards across the 10-county region. Additionally, she will spearhead the implementation of a same-day access system, enhancing community members' access to vital support services. Prior to joining Pawnee, Stuke worked extensively with individuals with disabilities, children with autism, trauma, ADHD, and those in the foster care system at Katie's Way in Manhattan.

Lisa Dyson and Ammie Jones serve as Access Team Clinicians, playing pivotal roles as initial points of contact for individuals seeking mental health support. They provide a safe space for individuals to discuss their experiences and connect them with appropriate services, drawing on their expertise and backgrounds.

The Same Day Access Team at Pawnee Mental Health offers immediate support and streamlined access to mental health care without the need for referrals. Same Day Assessments are available to anyone seeking to address their mental health or addiction needs. No appointments are required.

Walk-in services are currently available in Clay Center, Junction City (814 Caroline Ave.), Manhattan (2001 Claflin Rd.), Marysville, and Wamego during the following hours:

Pawnee Mental HeleasePawnee Mental Health continues its mission of delivering prompt and accessible mental health services to Geary and Clay counties through the establishment of its Same Day Access Team, led by Kendra Stuke.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716929481774.jpeg" alt="Dr. Kendra Stuke" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Kendra Stuke</figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Kendra Stuke brings over 25 years of diverse clinical experience to her role as Access Manager at Pawnee Mental Health. In this position, she will oversee the intake therapist team, ensuring efficient and excellent service delivery. Dr. Stuke's responsibilities include talent recruitment, ongoing training, and support to maintain high care standards across the 10-county region. Additionally, she will spearhead the implementation of a same-day access system, enhancing community members' access to vital support services. Prior to joining Pawnee, Stuke worked extensively with individuals with disabilities, children with autism, trauma, ADHD, and those in the foster care system at Katie's Way in Manhattan.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716929455446.jpeg" alt="Lisa Dyson" />
 <figcaption>Lisa Dyson</figcaption>
 </figure>Lisa Dyson and Ammie Jones serve as Access Team Clinicians, playing pivotal roles as initial points of contact for individuals seeking mental health support. They provide a safe space for individuals to discuss their experiences and connect them with appropriate services, drawing on their expertise and backgrounds.The Same Day Access Team at Pawnee Mental Health offers immediate support and streamlined access to mental health care without the need for referrals. Same Day Assessments are available to anyone seeking to address their mental health or addiction needs. No appointments are required.Walk-in services are currently available in Clay Center, Junction City (814 Caroline Ave.), Manhattan (2001 Claflin Rd.), Marysville, and Wamego during the following hours:<ul>
 <li>Clay CenterMonday, Wednesday, &amp; Thursday:&nbsp;8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.</li><li>Monday, Wednesday, &amp; Thursday:&nbsp;8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.</li><li>Junction City (814 Caroline Ave.) &amp;&nbsp;Manhattan (1558 Hayes Drive)Monday - Thursday:&nbsp; 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.Friday:&nbsp; 8:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.</li><li>Monday - Thursday:&nbsp; 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.</li><li>Friday:&nbsp; 8:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.</li><li>Marysville &amp; WamegoMonday - Thursday:&nbsp;8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.</li><li>Monday - Thursday:&nbsp;8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.</li>
 </ul>

Dr. Kendra Stuke Leads Central Region Same Day Access at Pawnee Mental Health

John Wilson, Interference with LEO, Criminal use of a financial card-falsified card under $1,000, Theft &lt;$1,500 Pocket picking, Identity theft, Theft-All other, arrested 05/23

Eleanor Fisher, Failure to appear (Three counts), arrested 05/23

Prestyn Jones, Failure to appear, arrested 05/23

Nichole Mclean, Taxation-Drugs, No drug tax stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 05/23

Ian Martinez Justiniano, Interference with LEO, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Criminal discharge of a firearm - public road/public right of way/railroad, arrested 05/23

Raul Serrano Diaz,&nbsp;Interference with LEO, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Criminal discharge of a firearm - public road/public right of way/railroad, arrested 05/23

Zedrick Rodriguez Cruz, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, Interference with LEO, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Criminal discharge of a firearm - public road/public right of way/railroad, Possession of firearm while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 05/23

Luiziah Barnes, Harassment by telecom device, Transmit obscene comment/image/text, arrested 05/24

Lloyd Vincent, Interference with Law enforcement, Driving while license cancelled, suspended or revoked, arrested 05/25

Luke Richardson, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution, Criminal trespass, arrested 05/25

Amard Young, Failure to appear, arrested 05/25

Jennifer Lombardo, Arrest by LEO, Warrant arrest, Driving while license cancelled, suspended or revoked, Prohibiting drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, arrested 05/25

Jeremy Barker, Arrest by LEO, Warrant arrest, arrested 05/26

Ledger Rose, Liquor purchase/possess/consume by minor 18-20 yrs, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 05/26

Hunter Khalafallah, Prohibiting drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, arrested 05/27

Brandon Bledsoe, Prohibiting drug paraphernalia, Possession of THC, arrested 05/27

Ben Goodman, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 05/28

Naudi Lopez-Fernandez, Drivers license without valid DL, arrested 05/28

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/2024/5/1716918924987.jpeg" alt="James McWhirter, Aggravated indecent solicitation of a child - Sex act with a child &lt;14, arrested 05/23" />
 <figcaption>James McWhirter, Aggravated indecent solicitation of a child - Sex act with a child &lt;14, arrested 05/23</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716919034385.jpeg" alt="Drew Trimmer, Aggravated assault, arrested 05/24" />
 <figcaption>Drew Trimmer, Aggravated assault, arrested 05/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716919084252.jpeg" alt="James Lusk, Failure to appear, arrested 05/24" />
 <figcaption>James Lusk, Failure to appear, arrested 05/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716919120861.jpeg" alt="Marsk Fisher-Austin, Probation violation, arrested 05/24" />
 <figcaption>Marsk Fisher-Austin, Probation violation, arrested 05/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716919169286.jpeg" alt="Anthony Godfrey, Pedestrian under the influence of alcohol or drugs, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose felony warrant service or execution, Criminal damage to property, Battery on LEO, Bodily harm to county or city officer on duty, Aggravated assault of LEO, Use of a deadly weapon, arrested 05/24" />
 <figcaption>Anthony Godfrey, Pedestrian under the influence of alcohol or drugs, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose felony warrant service or execution, Criminal damage to property, Battery on LEO, Bodily harm to county or city officer on duty, Aggravated assault of LEO, Use of a deadly weapon, arrested 05/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716919367445.jpeg" alt="Marcus Burrows, Assault; Domestic battery, knowing rude physical contact with family member or dating relationship, Aggravated assault, Use of a deadly weapon, arrested 05/26" />
 <figcaption>Marcus Burrows, Assault; Domestic battery, knowing rude physical contact with family member or dating relationship, Aggravated assault, Use of a deadly weapon, arrested 05/26</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716919488685.jpeg" alt="Gabrielle Ballenger, Failure to appear, arrested 05/26" />
 <figcaption>Gabrielle Ballenger, Failure to appear, arrested 05/26</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716919592113.jpeg" alt="Gary Cunningham, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose felony warrant service or execution, Criminal threat, cause terror, evacuation or disruption, Battery on LEO, Physical contact with county or city officer on duty, Aggravated assault, Use of a deadly weapon, arrested 05/27" />
 <figcaption>Gary Cunningham, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose felony warrant service or execution, Criminal threat, cause terror, evacuation or disruption, Battery on LEO, Physical contact with county or city officer on duty, Aggravated assault, Use of a deadly weapon, arrested 05/27</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716919813184.jpeg" alt="Makeyla Battle, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 05/27" />
 <figcaption>Makeyla Battle, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 05/27</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716919875770.jpeg" alt="Lanard Reid, Battery, Aggravated battery, arrested 05/27" />
 <figcaption>Lanard Reid, Battery, Aggravated battery, arrested 05/27</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716919917485.jpeg" alt="Jessi Fletcher, Prohibiting drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, arrested 05/28" />
 <figcaption>Jessi Fletcher, Prohibiting drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, arrested 05/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716919962505.jpeg" alt="Arin Mccandless,&nbsp;Prohibiting drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, arrested 05/28" />
 <figcaption>Arin Mccandless,&nbsp;Prohibiting drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, arrested 05/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716920062412.jpeg" alt="Gabriel Davidson, Aggravated domestic battery, Choke in rude manner, family member/dating relationship, Aggravated battery, Knowingly cause great bodily harm or disfigurement, arrested 05/28" />
 <figcaption>Gabriel Davidson, Aggravated domestic battery, Choke in rude manner, family member/dating relationship, Aggravated battery, Knowingly cause great bodily harm or disfigurement, arrested 05/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716920185165.jpeg" alt="Aaron Tarver, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 05/28" />
 <figcaption>Aaron Tarver, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 05/28</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.John Wilson, Interference with LEO, Criminal use of a financial card-falsified card under $1,000, Theft &lt;$1,500 Pocket picking, Identity theft, Theft-All other, arrested 05/23Eleanor Fisher, Failure to appear (Three counts), arrested 05/23Prestyn Jones, Failure to appear, arrested 05/23Nichole Mclean, Taxation-Drugs, No drug tax stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 05/23Ian Martinez Justiniano, Interference with LEO, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Criminal discharge of a firearm - public road/public right of way/railroad, arrested 05/23Raul Serrano Diaz,&nbsp;Interference with LEO, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Criminal discharge of a firearm - public road/public right of way/railroad, arrested 05/23Zedrick Rodriguez Cruz, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, Interference with LEO, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Criminal discharge of a firearm - public road/public right of way/railroad, Possession of firearm while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 05/23Luiziah Barnes, Harassment by telecom device, Transmit obscene comment/image/text, arrested 05/24Lloyd Vincent, Interference with Law enforcement, Driving while license cancelled, suspended or revoked, arrested 05/25Luke Richardson, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution, Criminal trespass, arrested 05/25Amard Young, Failure to appear, arrested 05/25Jennifer Lombardo, Arrest by LEO, Warrant arrest, Driving while license cancelled, suspended or revoked, Prohibiting drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, arrested 05/25Jeremy Barker, Arrest by LEO, Warrant arrest, arrested 05/26Ledger Rose, Liquor purchase/possess/consume by minor 18-20 yrs, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 05/26Hunter Khalafallah, Prohibiting drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, arrested 05/27Brandon Bledsoe, Prohibiting drug paraphernalia, Possession of THC, arrested 05/27Ben Goodman, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 05/28Naudi Lopez-Fernandez, Drivers license without valid DL, arrested 05/28Recent 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 May 24-28

Junction City Public Works has announced that Spring Valley Road has been closed to thru traffic from Ash Street to Valley Drive. Public Works is anticipating that the closure will be in effect for a few weeks until repairs can be complete.

Junction City Public Works has announced that Spring Valley Road has been closed to thru traffic from Ash Street to Valley Drive. Public Works is anticipating that the closure will be in effect for a few weeks until repairs can be complete.

Road closure notice

Kimberly Bradney, Democrat,&nbsp; has paid the filing fee to run for election to Geary County Clerk. Current County Clerk Courtney Gilbert confirmed that Bradney paid the filing fee. Bradney had initially attempted to file by petition, but there not enough valid signatures.

Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert has confirmed that Kimberly Bradney did not have enough signatures to file by petition to run for county clerk so as of right now she is not a viable candidate. Gilbert noted that Bradney did say that she will pay the filing fee to run for election.

Kimberly Bradney has filed for election to the Geary County Clerk's post. Bradney, a Democrat, filed by petition. According to the county clerk's office they are working to verify the signatures.

Bradney will run against current county clerk Courtney Gilbert, Republican, who filed for election earlier.

UPDATE:Kimberly Bradney, Democrat,&nbsp; has paid the filing fee to run for election to Geary County Clerk. Current County Clerk Courtney Gilbert confirmed that Bradney paid the filing fee. Bradney had initially attempted to file by petition, but there not enough valid signatures.---Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert has confirmed that Kimberly Bradney did not have enough signatures to file by petition to run for county clerk so as of right now she is not a viable candidate. Gilbert noted that Bradney did say that she will pay the filing fee to run for election.----Kimberly Bradney has filed for election to the Geary County Clerk's post. Bradney, a Democrat, filed by petition. According to the county clerk's office they are working to verify the signatures.Bradney will run against current county clerk Courtney Gilbert, Republican, who filed for election earlier.( Cover photo - Pixabay )

Filing for county clerk

The Geary County commission was asked Tuesday to provide $50,000 for a new Geary County Food Pantry building project planned at the northwest corner of Seventh &amp; Clay Streets.&nbsp;

Commission Chair Trish Giordano told Food Pantry board member Brad Calton that she did not know if there was anything that the County could do before the end of the year, but could possibly put the Pantry on an appropriation list for 2025. "I definitely want to see if there is something we can do to help you." Some time ago the County had already provided $50,000 that went toward buying the land for the project.

While there is available food the Pantry needs more space than exists at their West Third Street location. The fundraising goal is $500,000. So far $325,000 has been raised and is in the bank. The Junction City Commission also recently agreed to provide another $50,000 and there will be in-kind contributions from Hutton Construction, and other companies. Hutton wants to build the facility at cost.

Carlton did note that Hutton Construction wants to break ground on the project in July.

The Geary County commission was asked Tuesday to provide $50,000 for a new Geary County Food Pantry building project planned at the northwest corner of Seventh &amp; Clay Streets.&nbsp;Commission Chair Trish Giordano told Food Pantry board member Brad Calton that she did not know if there was anything that the County could do before the end of the year, but could possibly put the Pantry on an appropriation list for 2025. "I definitely want to see if there is something we can do to help you." Some time ago the County had already provided $50,000 that went toward buying the land for the project.While there is available food the Pantry needs more space than exists at their West Third Street location. The fundraising goal is $500,000. So far $325,000 has been raised and is in the bank. The Junction City Commission also recently agreed to provide another $50,000 and there will be in-kind contributions from Hutton Construction, and other companies. Hutton wants to build the facility at cost.Carlton did note that Hutton Construction wants to break ground on the project in July.

County gets funding request for a Food Pantry project

Submitted for Insight Kansas by Mark R. Joslyn

Why did this happen? How can it be prevented from happening again?

These are the questions asked after gunfire erupted at the conclusion of the Kansas City Super Bowl parade that left one person dead and dozens injured – including 11 children.

Citizens turned to the government for answers.

Yet the solutions proposed by elected officials differed along partisan lines.

Most Democrats consider guns a primary threat to safety. They cite thousands of gun deaths and injuries as evidence, including horrific mass shootings. To mitigate risks, and safeguard the well-being of everyone, stricter regulations that control gun ownership are required.

Most Republicans consider guns crucial for self-defense. Responsible gun owners can protect themselves and others from those who intend harm. Making access to firearms easier, not harder, empowers law-abiding citizens and contributes to a safer society.

These radically different approaches frustrate anxious citizens, fuel partisan discord, and often result in legislative paralysis.

It’s in fact astonishing how few politicians grasp the value of collaboration after such traumatic events.

If gun laws are modified, it’s typically due to the legislative dominance of one party. For example, six months after a deadly mass shooting in Maine that resulted in the deaths of 18 people and injuries to 13 others, the Democrat-led legislature passed various guns measures including 72-hour waiting periods for gun purchases, expanded background checks, and a ban on devices that convert guns into rapid-fire weapons. After a school shooting in Iowa, where a school principal and sixth grade student died and several more injured, Republicans passed a bill allowing trained teachers and staff to carry guns on school property. It also required large districts to have an armed security officer at each high school – unless the school board opted out. Polling in Kansas and Missouri suggests strong support for gun measures including criminal and mental health background checks and requiring people to be 21 or older to purchase a gun. There’s also modest support for teachers with proper training to carry firearms.

Both legislatures failed to give these measures serious consideration.

Now is the time for a new path forward. Research shows most gun violence is spatially concentrated, arising from structural disadvantages such as poverty, densely crowded housing, high unemployment, lower educational attainment, as well as poor mental health, exposure to violence, and drug/alcohol abuse.

Addressing these disadvantages requires improving economic opportunities, renovating environments such as dilapidated housing and vacant buildings, developing more parks and community centers, and strengthening civic infrastructures so people can learn ways to mitigate gun violence and establish organizations to partner with police and mental health professionals.

By focusing on structural factors, lawmakers from both sides of the aisle can embrace a politically viable and arguably more effective approach.

So, when the unsettling pattern repeats – gun violence, partisan squabbles, and frequent stalemate, keep in mind gun violence has multiple causes, and existing gun laws are just one piece of a very large and complex puzzle.

Submitted for Insight Kansas by Mark R. JoslynWhy did this happen? How can it be prevented from happening again?These are the questions asked after gunfire erupted at the conclusion of the Kansas City Super Bowl parade that left one person dead and dozens injured – including 11 children.Citizens turned to the government for answers.Yet the solutions proposed by elected officials differed along partisan lines.Most Democrats consider guns a primary threat to safety. They cite thousands of gun deaths and injuries as evidence, including horrific mass shootings. To mitigate risks, and safeguard the well-being of everyone, stricter regulations that control gun ownership are required.Most Republicans consider guns crucial for self-defense. Responsible gun owners can protect themselves and others from those who intend harm. Making access to firearms easier, not harder, empowers law-abiding citizens and contributes to a safer society.These radically different approaches frustrate anxious citizens, fuel partisan discord, and often result in legislative paralysis.It’s in fact astonishing how few politicians grasp the value of collaboration after such traumatic events.Party agendas come first.If gun laws are modified, it’s typically due to the legislative dominance of one party. For example, six months after a deadly mass shooting in Maine that resulted in the deaths of 18 people and injuries to 13 others, the Democrat-led legislature passed various guns measures including 72-hour waiting periods for gun purchases, expanded background checks, and a ban on devices that convert guns into rapid-fire weapons. After a school shooting in Iowa, where a school principal and sixth grade student died and several more injured, Republicans passed a bill allowing trained teachers and staff to carry guns on school property. It also required large districts to have an armed security officer at each high school – unless the school board opted out. Polling in Kansas and Missouri suggests strong support for gun measures including criminal and mental health background checks and requiring people to be 21 or older to purchase a gun. There’s also modest support for teachers with proper training to carry firearms.Both legislatures failed to give these measures serious consideration.Now is the time for a new path forward. Research shows most gun violence is spatially concentrated, arising from structural disadvantages such as poverty, densely crowded housing, high unemployment, lower educational attainment, as well as poor mental health, exposure to violence, and drug/alcohol abuse.Addressing these disadvantages requires improving economic opportunities, renovating environments such as dilapidated housing and vacant buildings, developing more parks and community centers, and strengthening civic infrastructures so people can learn ways to mitigate gun violence and establish organizations to partner with police and mental health professionals.By focusing on structural factors, lawmakers from both sides of the aisle can embrace a politically viable and arguably more effective approach.So, when the unsettling pattern repeats – gun violence, partisan squabbles, and frequent stalemate, keep in mind gun violence has multiple causes, and existing gun laws are just one piece of a very large and complex puzzle.( Cover photo&nbsp; - Pixabay )

Partisan solutions to stop gun violence are due for a change.

United Way of Junction City-Geary County has announced that Pawnee Mental Health as a $1,500 funded partner for 2024. This support will directly fund the continuation and enhancement of the S.T.A.R.S. (Strength, Teamwork, Attitude, Relationships, Self-Esteem) Camp, a vital summer program exclusively designed for children aged 5-17 with serious emotional disturbances (SED) in our Youth Community Services.

Now in its 22nd&nbsp;year, S.T.A.R.S. Camp, hosted by Pawnee Mental Health, offers a lifeline to children with SED by providing them with a supportive summer experience. For many of these children, the camp represents their sole opportunity to engage in supportive and enjoyable summer activities, fostering essential skills such as resilience, teamwork, and self-esteem.

The United Way of Junction City-Geary County grant will play a pivotal role in ensuring that the S.T.A.R.S. Camp remains accessible to all eligible children, regardless of financial constraints.&nbsp;

By Dewey TerrillJC PostUnited Way of Junction City-Geary County has announced that Pawnee Mental Health as a $1,500 funded partner for 2024. This support will directly fund the continuation and enhancement of the S.T.A.R.S. (Strength, Teamwork, Attitude, Relationships, Self-Esteem) Camp, a vital summer program exclusively designed for children aged 5-17 with serious emotional disturbances (SED) in our Youth Community Services.Now in its 22nd&nbsp;year, S.T.A.R.S. Camp, hosted by Pawnee Mental Health, offers a lifeline to children with SED by providing them with a supportive summer experience. For many of these children, the camp represents their sole opportunity to engage in supportive and enjoyable summer activities, fostering essential skills such as resilience, teamwork, and self-esteem.The United Way of Junction City-Geary County grant will play a pivotal role in ensuring that the S.T.A.R.S. Camp remains accessible to all eligible children, regardless of financial constraints.&nbsp;"

Pawnee Mental Health receives a grant from United Way of Junction City-Geary County 

RILEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Monday in Riley County.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report,&nbsp; Roselin Lee, 40, Dwight, lost control of a motorcycle near the airport in the 6200 Block of Wildcat Creek Road.&nbsp; 

She was ejected from the motorcycle. EMS&nbsp; transported her to Via Christi.&nbsp; The RCPD had no update on her condition early Tuesday and released no additional details on the crash.

RILEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Monday in Riley County.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report,&nbsp; Roselin Lee, 40, Dwight, lost control of a motorcycle near the airport in the 6200 Block of Wildcat Creek Road.&nbsp; <div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d28237.351560642164!2d-96.6701640988976!3d39.184249244394024!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bdcb93100eb69d%3A0x10d004e72b25178b!2s6200%20Wildcat%20Creek%20Rd%2C%20Manhattan%2C%20KS%2066503!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1716906051262!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>She was ejected from the motorcycle. EMS&nbsp; transported her to Via Christi.&nbsp; The RCPD had no update on her condition early Tuesday and released no additional details on the crash.

Kan. woman hospitalized after motorcycle accident

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) is launching Summer EBT, a new program to help eligible families offset some of the costs of buying food for their school-aged children over summer break. Summer EBT, also known as SUN Bucks in other states, is a partnership between DCF and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service. The program provides families $120 for each eligible school-aged child to buy groceries.

“Summer is a time when many children lose the free and reduced-price meals they get at school and when households might need a little extra help putting meals on the table,” said DCF Secretary Laura Howard. “Summer EBT benefits can be used to buy food like fruits, vegetables, meat, whole grains, and dairy at grocery stores, farmers markets, and other places that accept SNAP EBT benefits.”

“Children and teens need healthy food year-round to play, grow, and learn. Summer EBT will help families stretch their grocery budget during the summer and provide their children with the nutrition they need to thrive,” Howard continued.

Summer EBT benefits will begin rolling out in mid to late July. For most families, Summer EBT will automatically be added to an existing household’s Kansas Benefits Card (also known as an EBT card) or loaded onto a Kansas Benefits Card and mailed to the home. Families that don’t receive Summer EBT benefits but believe they qualify must apply between Aug. 12 and Sept. 11, 2024, through the DCF online self-service portal,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmRjZmFwcC5rZWVzLmtzLmdvdi9hcHNwc3NwL3NzcE5vbk1lZC5wb3J0YWwiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNTIzLjk1MjI4NzYxIn0.MnxfchdZGJB_flwclyW7Nm_-3w34K5WeLKQKdqxtUbY/s/1303179659/br/242970354756-l">dcfapp.kees.ks.gov</a>. Children who receive Summer EBT can still participate in other summer meal programs that may be available in their community.

Children may be eligible for the program if:

By the end of July 2024, benefits will be issued automatically to eligible children whom DCF can identify in partnership with the Kansas Department of Education. Any child(ren) who did not receive benefits by the end of July 2024 may apply for Summer EBT benefits through the online self-service portal,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmRjZmFwcC5rZWVzLmtzLmdvdi9hcHNwc3NwL3NzcE5vbk1lZC5wb3J0YWwiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNTIzLjk1MjI4NzYxIn0.9a_Nrze2PnNFjK3ZUd-gmOPP4R8kMEIwEBQgpqN8_dI/s/1303179659/br/242970354756-l">dcfapp.kees.ks.gov</a>. Online applications for Summer EBT will be accepted from Aug. 12 through Sept. 11, 2024.

Learn more about the Summer EBT program at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmRjZi5rcy5nb3Yvc2VydmljZXMvZWVzL1BhZ2VzL0Zvb2QvU3VtbWVyRUJULmFzcHgiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNTIzLjk1MjI4NzYxIn0.w7lyngUXCTJz9VmnrNqtr0t-Y__r4vMQJeCOymTfRUE/s/1303179659/br/242970354756-l">dcf.ks.gov</a>.

SubmittedTOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) is launching Summer EBT, a new program to help eligible families offset some of the costs of buying food for their school-aged children over summer break. Summer EBT, also known as SUN Bucks in other states, is a partnership between DCF and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service. The program provides families $120 for each eligible school-aged child to buy groceries.“Summer is a time when many children lose the free and reduced-price meals they get at school and when households might need a little extra help putting meals on the table,” said DCF Secretary Laura Howard. “Summer EBT benefits can be used to buy food like fruits, vegetables, meat, whole grains, and dairy at grocery stores, farmers markets, and other places that accept SNAP EBT benefits.”“Children and teens need healthy food year-round to play, grow, and learn. Summer EBT will help families stretch their grocery budget during the summer and provide their children with the nutrition they need to thrive,” Howard continued.Summer EBT benefits will begin rolling out in mid to late July. For most families, Summer EBT will automatically be added to an existing household’s Kansas Benefits Card (also known as an EBT card) or loaded onto a Kansas Benefits Card and mailed to the home. Families that don’t receive Summer EBT benefits but believe they qualify must apply between Aug. 12 and Sept. 11, 2024, through the DCF online self-service portal,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmRjZmFwcC5rZWVzLmtzLmdvdi9hcHNwc3NwL3NzcE5vbk1lZC5wb3J0YWwiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNTIzLjk1MjI4NzYxIn0.MnxfchdZGJB_flwclyW7Nm_-3w34K5WeLKQKdqxtUbY/s/1303179659/br/242970354756-l">dcfapp.kees.ks.gov</a>. Children who receive Summer EBT can still participate in other summer meal programs that may be available in their community.Eligibility:Children may be eligible for the program if:<ul>
 <li>The child is school-aged (7-17 years old) and received food assistance, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and/or foster care benefits at any point during the school year.</li>
 </ul>OR<ul>
 <li>The child attends a Kansas school that offers the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Program, and the household income meets the requirements for free or reduced-price school meals at any point during the school year.</li>
 </ul>Enrollment:By the end of July 2024, benefits will be issued automatically to eligible children whom DCF can identify in partnership with the Kansas Department of Education. Any child(ren) who did not receive benefits by the end of July 2024 may apply for Summer EBT benefits through the online self-service portal,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmRjZmFwcC5rZWVzLmtzLmdvdi9hcHNwc3NwL3NzcE5vbk1lZC5wb3J0YWwiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNTIzLjk1MjI4NzYxIn0.9a_Nrze2PnNFjK3ZUd-gmOPP4R8kMEIwEBQgpqN8_dI/s/1303179659/br/242970354756-l">dcfapp.kees.ks.gov</a>. Online applications for Summer EBT will be accepted from Aug. 12 through Sept. 11, 2024.Learn more about the Summer EBT program at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmRjZi5rcy5nb3Yvc2VydmljZXMvZWVzL1BhZ2VzL0Zvb2QvU3VtbWVyRUJULmFzcHgiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNTIzLjk1MjI4NzYxIn0.w7lyngUXCTJz9VmnrNqtr0t-Y__r4vMQJeCOymTfRUE/s/1303179659/br/242970354756-l">dcf.ks.gov</a>.

Kansas launches summer EBT program to improve food access for kids during summer break

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

MANHATTAN - On Monday, community members gathered to honor the lives of those who lost their lives while serving in the military.

Wreaths were hung and flowers were laid in honor of the fallen.

Junction City High School JROTC members posted the colors and assisted with hanging the wreaths.

The Junction City American Legion Chapter 45 Riders provided the 21 volley salute as part of the remembrance ceremony.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716869791698.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - On Monday, community members gathered to honor the lives of those who lost their lives while serving in the military.Wreaths were hung and flowers were laid in honor of the fallen.Junction City High School JROTC members posted the colors and assisted with hanging the wreaths.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LYn1EZzbld8?si=fvRLE0XeNsc7TyJV" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The Junction City American Legion Chapter 45 Riders provided the 21 volley salute as part of the remembrance ceremony.The full ceremony can be watched here:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWheresBeckyMHK%2Fvideos%2F453397897294169%2F&show_text=true&width=267&t=0" width="267" height="591" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

Memorial Day ceremony honors fallen heroes

On Sunday evening Geary County Sheriff's Deputies responded to K-57 Highway at mile marker 5 for a two vehicle injury accident. Ledger J. Rose of Salina, KS was traveling westbound on K-57 in his 2019 Chevrolet Silverado when he failed to yield right of way and struck a 2024 Toyota Rav 4, being operated by Haily N. Zuniga of Loveland, CO. 

The Sheriff's Department said four occupants in the Toyota were transported to the Stormont Vail for medical treatment. Both vehicles were towed by Bud’s Wrecker Service.

On Sunday evening Geary County Sheriff's Deputies responded to K-57 Highway at mile marker 5 for a two vehicle injury accident. Ledger J. Rose of Salina, KS was traveling westbound on K-57 in his 2019 Chevrolet Silverado when he failed to yield right of way and struck a 2024 Toyota Rav 4, being operated by Haily N. Zuniga of Loveland, CO. The Sheriff's Department said four occupants in the Toyota were transported to the Stormont Vail for medical treatment. Both vehicles were towed by Bud’s Wrecker Service.

Sheriff's Department responds to a two-vehicle accident

JUNCTION CITY - Last weekend, member of the American Legion Post 45 and American Legion Riders Chapter 45 honored the more than 80 fallen Kansas soldiers with a monument dedication.

The monument is on the east edge of Heritage Park and faces the east.&nbsp;

Containing the more than 80 names of soldiers from Kansas who have been killed while serving in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Gulf War.

The full dedication ceremony can be <a href="https://fb.watch/sl4xL6Kl8g/">watched here</a>.

*The monument will be removed in the next few weeks to receive repairs due to damage occurring during shipping. While being repaired an additional five names will be added to the monument.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716864909423.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostJUNCTION CITY - Last weekend, member of the American Legion Post 45 and American Legion Riders Chapter 45 honored the more than 80 fallen Kansas soldiers with a monument dedication.The monument is on the east edge of Heritage Park and faces the east.&nbsp;Containing the more than 80 names of soldiers from Kansas who have been killed while serving in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Gulf War.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tP-0F-h5NP0?si=9OB6gSWIvPpt4KUj" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The full dedication ceremony can be <a href="https://fb.watch/sl4xL6Kl8g/">watched here</a>.*The monument will be removed in the next few weeks to receive repairs due to damage occurring during shipping. While being repaired an additional five names will be added to the monument.

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