Geraldine “Gerri” Wehrli, formerly of Stockton, Kansas, passed away on November 26, 2024, at the Phillips County Retirement Center in Phillipsburg, Kansas, at the age of 95. She was born on November 8, 1929, to James “Jim” and Bonnie (Montgomery) Lantz in Claremore, Oklahoma. She was married to John L. Wehrli on August 14,&nbsp;1947,&nbsp;in Russell, Kansas. He passed away on September 4, 2018.

Gerri grew up in&nbsp;Keifer, Oklahoma&nbsp;and graduated from&nbsp;Bunker Hill&nbsp;High School in&nbsp;1947.&nbsp;After completing her education,&nbsp;she&nbsp;worked for&nbsp;several&nbsp;years at the Rooks County Treasurer’s office&nbsp;and&nbsp;many years for E. Charles Hageman at H. C. Sweet Abstract Co. in Stockton.&nbsp;She was known for her diligent work ethic and dedication.

Outside her professional life, Gerri had a wide range of interests that brought her joy. She was an avid reader, always with a book in hand, and had a passion for learning and exploring new stories. Her competitive spirit&nbsp;was evident&nbsp;in her love of games, whether playing pitch, dominos, or Yahtzee, she found great enjoyment in friendly competition. One of her favorite pastimes was playing Chinese checkers with her father, where she delighted in the challenge of trying to win against him.

Gerri is survived by her son, Gerald (Pat) Wehrli&nbsp;of Plainville;daughter, Dereth “DJ” Claycamp of Goodland; brother, Don Lantz&nbsp;of&nbsp;Olathe;&nbsp;three&nbsp;grandchildren,&nbsp;Christopher (Jackie) Wehrli,&nbsp;Lonnie Claycamp and Adam (Michelle) Wehrli;&nbsp;three&nbsp;great-grandchildren, Savannah Wehrli, and twins, Cole&nbsp;Wehrliand Riggins Wehrli;&nbsp;and many nieces and nephews in Oklahoma.&nbsp;

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Bonnie;husband, John;&nbsp;brother, Jack Lantz;&nbsp;and sister, Mary Jane Lantz. &nbsp;

Funeral service will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 2:00 PM,&nbsp;with visitation at 1:00 PM until service time at the&nbsp;Main Street&nbsp;Christian Church in Stockton.&nbsp;Burial will follow at the Stockton Cemetery.&nbsp;

Memorials are suggested to Phillips County Retirement Center, Hospice Services of Northwest Kansas or&nbsp;Main Street&nbsp;Christian Church and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease&nbsp;Funeral Home, 723 N 1st&nbsp;Street, Stockton, KS 67669.&nbsp;

Online condolences may be left for the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.plumeroverlease.com/">www.plumeroverlease.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733233128230.jpeg" alt="Geraldine “Gerri” Wehrli" />
 <figcaption>Geraldine “Gerri” Wehrli</figcaption>
 </figure>Geraldine “Gerri” Wehrli, formerly of Stockton, Kansas, passed away on November 26, 2024, at the Phillips County Retirement Center in Phillipsburg, Kansas, at the age of 95. She was born on November 8, 1929, to James “Jim” and Bonnie (Montgomery) Lantz in Claremore, Oklahoma. She was married to John L. Wehrli on August 14,&nbsp;1947,&nbsp;in Russell, Kansas. He passed away on September 4, 2018.Gerri grew up in&nbsp;Keifer, Oklahoma&nbsp;and graduated from&nbsp;Bunker Hill&nbsp;High School in&nbsp;1947.&nbsp;After completing her education,&nbsp;she&nbsp;worked for&nbsp;several&nbsp;years at the Rooks County Treasurer’s office&nbsp;and&nbsp;many years for E. Charles Hageman at H. C. Sweet Abstract Co. in Stockton.&nbsp;She was known for her diligent work ethic and dedication.Outside her professional life, Gerri had a wide range of interests that brought her joy. She was an avid reader, always with a book in hand, and had a passion for learning and exploring new stories. Her competitive spirit&nbsp;was evident&nbsp;in her love of games, whether playing pitch, dominos, or Yahtzee, she found great enjoyment in friendly competition. One of her favorite pastimes was playing Chinese checkers with her father, where she delighted in the challenge of trying to win against him.Gerri is survived by her son, Gerald (Pat) Wehrli&nbsp;of Plainville;daughter, Dereth “DJ” Claycamp of Goodland; brother, Don Lantz&nbsp;of&nbsp;Olathe;&nbsp;three&nbsp;grandchildren,&nbsp;Christopher (Jackie) Wehrli,&nbsp;Lonnie Claycamp and Adam (Michelle) Wehrli;&nbsp;three&nbsp;great-grandchildren, Savannah Wehrli, and twins, Cole&nbsp;Wehrliand Riggins Wehrli;&nbsp;and many nieces and nephews in Oklahoma.&nbsp;She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Bonnie;husband, John;&nbsp;brother, Jack Lantz;&nbsp;and sister, Mary Jane Lantz. &nbsp;Funeral service will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 2:00 PM,&nbsp;with visitation at 1:00 PM until service time at the&nbsp;Main Street&nbsp;Christian Church in Stockton.&nbsp;Burial will follow at the Stockton Cemetery.&nbsp;Memorials are suggested to Phillips County Retirement Center, Hospice Services of Northwest Kansas or&nbsp;Main Street&nbsp;Christian Church and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease&nbsp;Funeral Home, 723 N 1st&nbsp;Street, Stockton, KS 67669.&nbsp;Online condolences may be left for the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.plumeroverlease.com/">www.plumeroverlease.com</a>

Geraldine “Gerri” Wehrli

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas teen on multiple allegations in connection an incident involving a gun.

Just before 3p.m. Saturday, police responded to the area of the 1700 block of SE 29th street in Topeka in reference to a subject possibly threatening others with a firearm.

Upon arrival officers developed information that 18-year-old&nbsp; Jairus Lyles Jr., had been armed with a firearm and had threatened several people in the area.&nbsp;

Police found Lyles at his home in the area arrested him and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges Three counts of Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Criminal Threat and&nbsp;&nbsp;Aggravated Endangerment of a child.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733151513424.png" alt="Lyles photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Lyles photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas teen on multiple allegations in connection an incident involving a gun.Just before 3p.m. Saturday, police responded to the area of the 1700 block of SE 29th street in Topeka in reference to a subject possibly threatening others with a firearm.Upon arrival officers developed information that 18-year-old&nbsp; Jairus Lyles Jr., had been armed with a firearm and had threatened several people in the area.&nbsp;Police found Lyles at his home in the area arrested him and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges Three counts of Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Criminal Threat and&nbsp;&nbsp;Aggravated Endangerment of a child.

Kan. teen accused of threatening victims with a gun

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement are investigating two women on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just after 10:30p.m. Saturday, a sheriff's deputy arrested two women following a traffic stop near 142nd&nbsp;and U.S. Hwy 75, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 Deputies arrested the driver of the vehicle, Janis Ann Myrick 49, of Topeka, and the passenger, Lori Price, 58 of Topeka on drug charges.

Myrick booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and for an outstanding warrant from Jewell County, Kansas.

Price was&nbsp; booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and felony interference with law enforcement. The Kansas Highway Patrol assisted with the incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733174594082.png" alt="Myrick-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Myrick-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement are investigating two women on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.Just after 10:30p.m. Saturday, a sheriff's deputy arrested two women following a traffic stop near 142nd&nbsp;and U.S. Hwy 75, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733174701797.png" alt="Price-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Price-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure> Deputies arrested the driver of the vehicle, Janis Ann Myrick 49, of Topeka, and the passenger, Lori Price, 58 of Topeka on drug charges.Myrick booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and for an outstanding warrant from Jewell County, Kansas.Price was&nbsp; booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and felony interference with law enforcement. The Kansas Highway Patrol assisted with the incident.

Two Kansas women accused of transporting meth

President-elect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;has filled the key posts for his second term in office, prioritizing loyalty to him after he felt bruised and hampered by internal squabbling during his first term.

Some of his choices could face difficult confirmation fights in the Senate, even with Republicans in control, and one candidate has already withdrawn from consideration.

Trump would turn a former critic into an ally as the nation's top diplomat.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marco-rubio-trump-latin-america-secretary-of-state-87aff0ce93f638fb69e30b067ecd84fb">Rubio</a>, 53, is a noted hawk on China, Cuba and Iran, and was a finalist to be Trump's running mate before the slot went to JD Vance. Rubio is vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

His selection punctuates the hard pivot&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-marco-rubio-secretary-of-state-25664371f80dcf3332838352165e4d48">Rubio</a>&nbsp;has made with Trump, whom the senator once called a “con man" during his own unsuccessful campaign for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination. Their relationship improved dramatically while Trump was in the White House.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-hegseth-defense-secretary-pentagon-2d8030921ecef933778cf92afd40ec72">Hegseth</a>, 44, was a co-host of Fox News Channel’s “Fox and Friends Weekend” and had been a contributor with the network since 2014. He developed a friendship with Trump, who made regular appearances on the show.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/who-is-pete-hegseth-trump-defense-secretary-2e2bdd16c8e90f5d037f763cfadbde94">Hegseth</a>&nbsp;served in the Army National Guard from 2002 to 2021, deploying to Iraq in 2005 and Afghanistan in 2011 and earning two Bronze Stars. He lacks senior military and national security experience and would oversee global crises ranging from Europe to the Middle East.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hegseth-assault-allegations-police-report-trump-e6ebec0a1a5c7fb51cb5e2198f5e12a5">A woman told police that she was sexually assaulted</a>&nbsp;in 2017 by Hegseth after he took her phone, blocked the door to a California hotel room and refused to let her leave, according to a detailed investigative report recently made public. Hegseth told police at the time that the encounter had been consensual and has denied any wrongdoing.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/treasury-election-scott-bessent-trump-e4df1ef61309ee78f2affc2d9eabeff1">Bessent</a>, 62, is a former money manager for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/george-soros">George Soros</a>, a big Democratic donor, and an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/budget-deficit-trump-harris-kamala-debt-1ee3ff65e22ccf19d19b792ee22c46da">advocate for deficit reduction</a>. He founded the hedge fund Key Square Capital Management after having worked on and off for Soros Fund Management since 1991. If confirmed by the Senate, Bessent would be the nation’s first openly gay treasury secretary.

He told Bloomberg in August that he decided to join Trump’s campaign in part to attack the mounting U.S. national debt. That would include slashing government programs and other spending.

Director of national intelligence: Tulsi Gabbard

Gabbard, 43, is a former Democratic House member from Hawaii who has been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tulsi-gabbard-intelligence-director-russia-putin-0f661dd39bd16e248b16c049e6aa26c5">accused of echoing Russian propaganda.</a>&nbsp;She unsuccessfully sought the party’s 2020 presidential nomination and left the party in 2022. Gabbard endorsed Trump in August and campaigned often with him.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-gabbard-director-national-intelligence-466dfdfe2f949ea20bc2f4ef13e21438">Gabbard</a>&nbsp;has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades and deployed to Iraq and Kuwait. If confirmed she would come to the role as an outsider compared to her predecessor. The current director, Avril Haines, spent several years in top national security and intelligence positions.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gaetz-trump-fbi-justice-department-248b46ba0c882dd46d661568e8bd3bd7">Bondi</a>, 59, was Florida's first female attorney general, serving between 2011 and 2019. She was on Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial in 2020.

Considered&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/things-to-know-pam-bondi-eec1d16075c7debda62223b475e3977d">a loyalist</a>, Bondi also has served with the America First Policy Institute, a Trump-allied group that has helped lay the groundwork for his future administration.

Bondi was among a group of Republicans who showed up to support Trump at his hush-money criminal trial in New York that ended in May with a conviction on 34 felony counts. A fierce defender of Trump, she also frequently appeared on Fox News and has been critical of the criminal cases against him.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-cabinet-labor-secretary-lori-chavezderemer-feaa4672efac644aa60722d3a3215df1">Republican U.S. House member</a>&nbsp;narrowly lost her reelection bid on Nov. 5 but had received strong backing from union members in her district.

As a potential labor secretary, Chavez-DeRemer would oversee the department's workforce and budget and put forth priorities that affect workers’ wages, health and safety, ability to unionize, and employer’s rights to fire employers, among other responsibilities.

Chavez-DeRemer is one of a few House Republicans to endorse&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/3c776a12a97468341bcfe8178638f127">the “Protecting the Right to Organize” or PRO Act</a>&nbsp;that would allow more workers to conduct organizing campaigns and penalize companies that violate workers’ rights. The act would also weaken “right-to-work” laws in more than half the states.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/howard-lutnick-trump-crypto-economy-elon-musk-a03d95e323f7d2d4b722184d83e7b388">Lutnick</a>&nbsp;heads the brokerage and investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald and is a cryptocurrency enthusiast. He is co-chair of Trump's transition operation, charged along with Linda McMahon, a former wrestling executive who previously led Trump’s Small Business Administration, with helping the president-elect fill key jobs in his second administration.

As secretary, Lutnick would play a key role in carrying out Trump's plans to raise and enforce tariffs. He would oversee a sprawling Cabinet department whose oversight ranges from funding new computer chip factories and imposing trade restrictions to releasing economic data and monitoring the weather.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-transition-white-house-staff-huckabee-f51121db5b18814bbab014e872c2a736">Noem</a>&nbsp;is a well-known conservative who used her two terms as South Dakota's governor to vault to a prominent position in Republican politics.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Noem did not order restrictions like other states, instead declaring South Dakota “open for business.” More recently,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kristi-noem-immigration-trump-homeland-security-border-60d998d6c973411c020fd5824456c860">Noem</a>&nbsp;faced sharp criticism for writing in her memoir about shooting and killing her dog.

She is set to lead a department crucial to the president-elect’s hardline immigration agenda as well as other missions. Homeland Security oversees natural disaster response, the U.S. Secret Service and Transportation Security Administration agents who work at airports.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ratcliffe-cia-e5fe61f5e79206357085932f1252a852">Ratcliffe</a>, a former U.S. House member from Texas, was director of national intelligence during the final year and a half of Trump’s first term. He led U.S. government’s spy agencies during the coronavirus pandemic. If confirmed, Ratcliffe will have held the highest intelligence positions in the U.S.

Health and human services secretary: Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-rfk-hhs-health-kennedy-f40ee2398e3a280c1586eecdd80bdf7c">Kennedy</a>, 70, ran for president as a Democrat, then as an independent before he dropped out and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-trump-speech-arizona-a2638f89ddcb5de03edbe4574ca17d45">then endorsed Trump</a>. He's the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/robert-f-kennedy-jr-rfk-things-to-know-explained-who-is-hhs-5288a4a7277d1a0b4a7ede8f57a971ce">son of Democratic icon</a>&nbsp;Robert F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1968 during his own presidential campaign.

Kennedy's nomination alarmed people who are concerned about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/robert-f-kennedy-vaccines-trump-rfkjr-7f8dcb25de76a5a70710d22bbc63f6fa">his record of spreading unfounded fears about vaccines</a>. For example, he has long advanced the debunked idea that vaccines cause autism.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-transition-cabinet-agriculture-75911e79188c48e27d6c3c12f1a58e80">Rollins</a>, 52, is president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a group helping to lay the groundwork for Trump's second administration.

She is a Texas attorney who was Trump's domestic policy adviser and director of his office of American innovation during his first term.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brooke-rollins-trump-agriculture-179e8163568c723afe6d27848ce04c22">Rollins</a>&nbsp;previously was an aide to former Texas Gov.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/rick-perry">Rick Perry</a>, who also served in Trump's first term. Rollins also ran the Texas Public Policy Foundation.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-duffy-cabinet-transportation-secretary-c465bbc516b5f898233f86bee31a7a45">Duffy</a>&nbsp;is a former House member from Wisconsin who was one of Trump's most visible defenders on cable news. Duffy&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-duffy-cabinet-transportation-b673a7ef72b5633f731b088ce26e4832">served in the House for nearly nine years</a>, sitting on the Financial Services Committee and chairing the subcommittee on insurance and housing. He left Congress in 2019 for a TV career and has been the host of “The Bottom Line” on Fox Business.

Before entering politics, Duffy was a reality TV star on MTV, where he met his wife, “Fox and Friends Weekend” co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy. They have nine children.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-doug-collins-veterans-affairs-va-georgia-f9a14a486cb12fd5ac3f07b3068eb20a">Collins</a>&nbsp;is a former Republican congressman from Georgia who gained recognition for defending Trump during his first impeachment trial. Trump was impeached for urging Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden in 2019 during the Democratic presidential campaign, but was acquitted by the Senate.

Collins also served in the armed forces himself. He is a chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-doug-burgum-interior-cabinet-2af5f4c0b891a2705c6132fbff16f278">North Dakota governor</a>, 68, is a former Republican presidential primary contender who endorsed Trump after he dropped out of the running. Burgum then became a serious contender to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-vice-president-rubio-vance-burgum-scott-8b6a3a22eecdfff668a5002ddfd3af18">be Trump’s vice presidential choice</a>&nbsp;in part because of his executive experience and business savvy. He also has close ties to deep-pocketed energy industry CEOs.

Trump said Burgum would chair a new National Energy Council and have a seat on the National Security Council, which would be a first for the Interior secretary.

A campaign donor and CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-2024-election-energy-secretary-d546f5f81d7b2347b49905be924dfcd7">Wright</a>&nbsp;is a vocal advocate of oil and gas development, including fracking — a key pillar of Trump’s quest to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market.

He also has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-chris-wright-energy-cabinet-4161f363d59013339d5b444ddf123d45">Wright</a>&nbsp;said the climate movement around the world is “collapsing under its own weight.” The Energy Department is responsible for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the United States.

McMahon,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/linda-mcmahon-trump-education-secretary-wwe-613016d0c164b89765af761404cbb123">a billionaire professional wrestling mogul</a>, would make a return appearance in a second Trump administration. She led the Small Business Administration from 2017 to 2019 in Trump’s first term and twice ran unsuccessfully in Connecticut as a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate. She served on the Connecticut Board of Education for a year starting in 2009 and has spent years on the board of trustees for Sacred Heart University. She has expressed support for charter schools and school choice.

Environmental Protection Agency administrator: Lee Zeldin

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-stephen-miller-policy-immigration-9cc6ad3118779b23bff88022ca5e2260">Zeldin</a>&nbsp;does not appear to have any experience in environmental issues, but is a longtime supporter of the former president. The 44-year-old former U.S. House member from New York wrote on&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/LeeMZeldin/status/1856068555865026956">X</a>, “We will restore US energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs, and make the US the global leader of AI" and "we will do so while protecting access to clean air and water.”

Trump often attacked the Biden administration’s promotion of electric vehicles, and incorrectly referred to a tax credit for EV purchases as a government mandate. Trump also often said his administration would “drill, baby, drill,” referring to his support for expanded petroleum exploration.

Housing and Urban Development: Scott Turner

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/housing-secretary-trump-scott-turner-nfl-727417b56d0e1f85a40eaf5f7d13d42f">Turner</a>&nbsp;is a former NFL player and White House aide. He ran the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during Trump’s first term in office. Trump, in a statement, credited Turner, the highest-ranking Black person he’s yet selected for his administration, with “helping to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities.”

U.S. Trade Representative: Jamieson Greer

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trade-nec-economics-trump-elections-7a0be4a246256bc468fb7c0e8bff8639">Greer</a>&nbsp;is a partner at King &amp; Spalding, a Washington law firm. If confirmed by the Senate, he would be responsible for negotiating directly with foreign governments on trade deals and disputes, as well as memberships in international trade bodies such as the World Trade Organization. He previously was chief of staff to Robert Lighthizer, who was the trade representative in Trump's first term.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/who-is-susie-wiles-32df8958bedde5f3f2d55fd071979692">Wiles</a>, 67, was a senior adviser to Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign and its de facto manager.

She has a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/who-is-susie-wiles-32df8958bedde5f3f2d55fd071979692">background in Florida politics</a>, helping Ron DeSantis win his first race for Florida governor. Six years later, she was key to Trump’s defeat of him in the 2024 Republican primary.

Wiles’ hire was Trump’s first major decision as president-elect and one that could be a defining test of his incoming administration considering her close relationship with him. Wiles is said to have earned Trump’s trust in part by guiding what was the most disciplined of Trump’s three presidential campaigns.

Waltz is a three-term Republican congressman from east-central Florida.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-national-security-adviser-mike-wlatz-0c81d044c9ffe18dfd745202e8351b9c">A former Army Green Beret</a>, he served multiple tours in Afghanistan and worked in the Pentagon as a policy adviser when Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates were defense chiefs.

He is considered hawkish on China, and called for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing due to its involvement in the origin of COVID-19 and its mistreatment of the minority Muslim Uighur population.

Hassett, 62, is a major advocate of tax cuts who was chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers in the first Trump term. In the new role as chairman of the National Economic Council, Trump said Hassett will play an important role in helping American families recover from inflation as well as in renewing and improving tax cuts Trump enacted in 2017, many of which are set to expire after 2025.

Homan, 62,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-homan-ice-border-czar-7dea915b5ea43896390b8020d254f887">has been tasked</a>&nbsp;with Trump’s top priority of carrying out the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history.

He led the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Trump's first administration. Democrats have criticized Homan for defending Trump’s “zero tolerance” policy on border crossings in the first term, which led to the separation of thousands of parents and children seeking asylum at the border.

Office of Management and Budget: Russell Vought

Vought, 48, held the position during Trump’s first presidency. He the founded the Center for Renewing America, a think tank that describes its mission as “renew a consensus of America as a nation under God.” Vought also was closely involved with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/project-2025-trump-american-revolution-6e02a297fb91b55de01ba7e86615bb08">Project 2025</a>, a conservative blueprint for Trump’s second term that Trump tried to distance himself from during the campaign.

Deputy chief of staff for policy: Stephen Miller

Miller, an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-stephen-miller-policy-immigration-9cc6ad3118779b23bff88022ca5e2260">immigration hardliner</a>, was a vocal spokesperson during the presidential campaign for Trump’s priority of mass deportations. The 39-year-old was a senior adviser during Trump’s first term.

Miller has been a central figure in some of Trump’s policy decisions, notably his move to separate thousands of immigrant families. Trump argued throughout the campaign that the nation’s economic, national security and social priorities could be met by deporting people living illegally in the U.S.

Scavino was an adviser in all three of the president-elect's campaigns and was described by the transition team as one of “Trump’s longest serving and most trusted aides." He will be deputy chief of staff and assistant to the president. Scavino previously ran Trump’s social media profile in the White House.

Blair was political director for Trump’s 2024 campaign and for the Republican National Committee. He will be deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs and an assistant to the president. Blair was key to Trump’s economic messaging during his winning White House comeback campaign.

Budowich is a veteran Trump campaign aide who launched and directed Make America Great Again, Inc., a super PAC that supported Trump’s 2024 campaign. He will be deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel and assistant to the president.

White House press secretary: Karoline Leavitt

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-administration-press-secretary-4c550e04334e87d2075dc6bbe2e244bd">Leavitt</a>, 27, was Trump's campaign press secretary and currently a spokesperson for his transition. She would be the youngest White House press secretary in history. Leavitt worked in the White House press office during Trump's first term. In 2022,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-abortion-inflation-donald-trump-51418003338eb89abfbfc6aac6909abd">she ran for Congress in New Hampshire,</a>&nbsp;winning a 10-way Republican primary before losing to Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas.

McGinley was Cabinet secretary during Trump's first administration and was outside legal counsel for the Republican National Committee's election integrity effort during the 2024 campaign.

Patel spent several years as a Justice Department prosecutor before catching the Trump administration’s attention as a staffer on Capitol Hill who helped investigate the Russia probe.

Patel has called for dramatically reducing the agency’s footprint, a perspective that sets him apart from earlier directors who have sought additional resources for the bureau. And though the Justice Department in 2021&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-business-government-and-politics-67ac2f4f96b2dfd7f47446662e59ec6e">halted the practice of secretly seizing reporters’ phone records</a>&nbsp;during leak investigations, Patel has said he intends to aggressively hunt down government officials who leak information to reporters.

Special envoy to the Middle East: Steven Witkoff

FBI Director selected: Trump's picks for key positions in his 2nd administration 

SEDGWICK COUNTY — A suspect accused in a deadly shooting rampage in Wichita last weekend made his first court appearance in the case Wednesday.

Jose A. Acosta, 33, was charged with&nbsp;First-degree murder;&nbsp;Criminal discharge of a firearm; Occupied dwelling with bodily harm;&nbsp;riminal discharge of a firearm; Recklessly at an occupied vehicle;&nbsp;aggravated robbery; Armed with a dangerous weapon; aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer; Use of a deadly weapon; Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon and battery, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

On Monday, Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter&nbsp; provided an update on a series of violent incidents involving Acosta.

At 8:52 PM, Wichita Police officers were dispatched to a reported robbery involving a firearm in the 1400 block of North Otis. The suspect, identified as 33-year-old Jose Antonio Acosta, pistol whipped one individual and pointed the gun at another, stealing their bicycle.

At 8:56 PM, as Acosta walked away from the robbery, he fired multiple shots into a residence in the 1400 block of North Otis. The homeowner narrowly avoided being shot, but the gunfire struck their dog.

At 9:16 PM, another victim reported an attempted carjacking that occurred near 16th&nbsp;and Broadway. Acosta allegedly struck the vehicle's window with a gun before firing several rounds at the car as the driver fled. Evidence of gunfire, including damage to the vehicle’s back window, was confirmed.

At 9:20 PM, officers investigating the area heard gunshots south of 13th and Broadway. It was determined that Acosta had engaged in a confrontation with an unidentified man at 11th and Broadway, firing multiple rounds. Detectives are actively seeking this individual.

Around the same time, Acosta confronted a woman across the street at a convenience store. Following a verbal altercation, he fired several shots at her. Fortunately, she was not injured.

At 9:26 PM, two WPD officers located Acosta near 11th and Broadway next to the stolen bicycle. After repeated commands to surrender, Acosta attempted to draw his firearm, hindered by an extended magazine. He eventually raised the weapon toward the officers, prompting them to fire. Acosta sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to a local hospital with critical but non-life-threatening injuries.

During interviews with victims of the Otis robbery, officers searched Prospect Park near 13th and Main. There, they discovered the body of 40-year-old Myron Tucker of Wichita, who had sustained gunshot wounds. Investigators believe Tucker was shot around 8:49 PM, shortly before the robbery.

Acosta was released from the hospital on Sunday and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail. He faces multiple requested charges, including:

This investigation remains ongoing, and detectives are working to identify and locate additional individuals involved in these incidents. We extend our gratitude to all agencies and officers who responded to this series of violent events and ensured the swift apprehension of the suspect.

Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division at (316) 660-5300 or Crime Stoppers at (316) 267-2111.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732580870839.png" alt="Acosta photo Sedgwick County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Acosta photo Sedgwick County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — A suspect accused in a deadly shooting rampage in Wichita last weekend made his first court appearance in the case Wednesday.Jose A. Acosta, 33, was charged with&nbsp;First-degree murder;&nbsp;Criminal discharge of a firearm; Occupied dwelling with bodily harm;&nbsp;riminal discharge of a firearm; Recklessly at an occupied vehicle;&nbsp;aggravated robbery; Armed with a dangerous weapon; aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer; Use of a deadly weapon; Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon and battery, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.On Monday, Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter&nbsp; provided an update on a series of violent incidents involving Acosta.Timeline of EventsAt 8:52 PM, Wichita Police officers were dispatched to a reported robbery involving a firearm in the 1400 block of North Otis. The suspect, identified as 33-year-old Jose Antonio Acosta, pistol whipped one individual and pointed the gun at another, stealing their bicycle.At 8:56 PM, as Acosta walked away from the robbery, he fired multiple shots into a residence in the 1400 block of North Otis. The homeowner narrowly avoided being shot, but the gunfire struck their dog.At 9:16 PM, another victim reported an attempted carjacking that occurred near 16th&nbsp;and Broadway. Acosta allegedly struck the vehicle's window with a gun before firing several rounds at the car as the driver fled. Evidence of gunfire, including damage to the vehicle’s back window, was confirmed.At 9:20 PM, officers investigating the area heard gunshots south of 13th and Broadway. It was determined that Acosta had engaged in a confrontation with an unidentified man at 11th and Broadway, firing multiple rounds. Detectives are actively seeking this individual.Around the same time, Acosta confronted a woman across the street at a convenience store. Following a verbal altercation, he fired several shots at her. Fortunately, she was not injured.At 9:26 PM, two WPD officers located Acosta near 11th and Broadway next to the stolen bicycle. After repeated commands to surrender, Acosta attempted to draw his firearm, hindered by an extended magazine. He eventually raised the weapon toward the officers, prompting them to fire. Acosta sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to a local hospital with critical but non-life-threatening injuries.Additional IncidentDuring interviews with victims of the Otis robbery, officers searched Prospect Park near 13th and Main. There, they discovered the body of 40-year-old Myron Tucker of Wichita, who had sustained gunshot wounds. Investigators believe Tucker was shot around 8:49 PM, shortly before the robbery.ArrestAcosta was released from the hospital on Sunday and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail. He faces multiple requested charges, including:<ul>
 <li>First-degree murder.</li><li>Attempted first-degree murder and attempted aggravated robbery.</li><li>Aggravated robbery and aggravated battery.</li><li>Aggravated assault and criminal discharge of a firearm.</li><li>Two counts of aggravated assault on law enforcement officers.</li><li>Felon in possession of a firearm (Due to his prior felony conviction).</li>
 </ul>This investigation remains ongoing, and detectives are working to identify and locate additional individuals involved in these incidents. We extend our gratitude to all agencies and officers who responded to this series of violent events and ensured the swift apprehension of the suspect.Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division at (316) 660-5300 or Crime Stoppers at (316) 267-2111.

Kan. murder suspect, wounded by police, appears in court

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Pop superstar Taylor Swift was spending Black Friday amid a sea of red to watch her boyfriend, Travis Kelce, and the rest of the Kansas City Chiefs as they played the Las Vegas Raiders in a chilly matinee at Arrowhead Stadium.

Swift had the Thanksgiving weekend off from her Eras Tour before it wraps with three shows in Vancouver beginning Dec. 6.

Swift walked down the tunnel into Arrowhead Stadium wearing a black outfit and red jacket as camera flashes created a strobe-like effect. Her arrival at Chiefs games over the past year-plus —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-kelce-chiefs-891e7df84295f5b35cfa97a5ec427721">ever since she started dating Kelce</a>, who had reached out to her with an invitation to a game — has become a red-carpet moment for both local and national media.

Earlier in the day, Target stores across the country began selling an exclusive book devoted to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-taylor-swift-kansas-city-1aca48cb971d6d232186c5d73a2c4244">Eras Tour</a>&nbsp;along with a bonus edition of her&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/music-holiday-gift-guide-2024-c368161ba884e994c7681dfed9108db8">“The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology”</a>&nbsp;that it said would only be available in stores on Black Friday.

There also are two new&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/holidays">Christmas</a>&nbsp;movies on television that have Swift connections.

<a href="https://play.mylifetime.com/movies/christmas-in-the-spotlight/preview-christmas-in-the-spotlight">“Christmas in the Spotlight,"</a>&nbsp;which premiered Nov. 23 on Lifetime, stars Jessica Lord as a pop star and Laith Wallschleger as a football player who meet and fall in love. The script was written by Eirene Tran Donohue, who said she was inspired to write a script loosely based on her favorite musician after watching Swift and Kelce's relationship blossom.

On Saturday, Hallmark will air&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syuN4M-wa9s">“Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story,”</a>&nbsp;which centers on a new Chiefs employee (Tyler Hynes) who meets a woman — played by Hunter King — whose family’s dedication to the team goes back decades. The story was written by Sherman Wolfe, a 49ers fan who was asked to pen it after the Chiefs beat San Francisco in the Super Bowl.

“Holiday Touchdown” has several cameos involving Chiefs players along with a small role for Kelce's mother, Donna Kelce. And the team celebrated its pending release Friday by handing out small pennants and pins to fans at the game.

Associated Press writer Alicia Rancilio contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732912821991.jpeg" alt="Singer Taylor Swift, right, and Donna Kelce arrive before the start of an NFL football game between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Kansas City Chiefs in Kansas City, Mo., Friday, Nov. 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Singer Taylor Swift, right, and Donna Kelce arrive before the start of an NFL football game between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Kansas City Chiefs in Kansas City, Mo., Friday, Nov. 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Pop superstar Taylor Swift was spending Black Friday amid a sea of red to watch her boyfriend, Travis Kelce, and the rest of the Kansas City Chiefs as they played the Las Vegas Raiders in a chilly matinee at Arrowhead Stadium.Swift had the Thanksgiving weekend off from her Eras Tour before it wraps with three shows in Vancouver beginning Dec. 6.Swift walked down the tunnel into Arrowhead Stadium wearing a black outfit and red jacket as camera flashes created a strobe-like effect. Her arrival at Chiefs games over the past year-plus —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-kelce-chiefs-891e7df84295f5b35cfa97a5ec427721">ever since she started dating Kelce</a>, who had reached out to her with an invitation to a game — has become a red-carpet moment for both local and national media.Earlier in the day, Target stores across the country began selling an exclusive book devoted to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-taylor-swift-kansas-city-1aca48cb971d6d232186c5d73a2c4244">Eras Tour</a>&nbsp;along with a bonus edition of her&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/music-holiday-gift-guide-2024-c368161ba884e994c7681dfed9108db8">“The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology”</a>&nbsp;that it said would only be available in stores on Black Friday.There also are two new&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/holidays">Christmas</a>&nbsp;movies on television that have Swift connections.<a href="https://play.mylifetime.com/movies/christmas-in-the-spotlight/preview-christmas-in-the-spotlight">“Christmas in the Spotlight,"</a>&nbsp;which premiered Nov. 23 on Lifetime, stars Jessica Lord as a pop star and Laith Wallschleger as a football player who meet and fall in love. The script was written by Eirene Tran Donohue, who said she was inspired to write a script loosely based on her favorite musician after watching Swift and Kelce's relationship blossom.On Saturday, Hallmark will air&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syuN4M-wa9s">“Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story,”</a>&nbsp;which centers on a new Chiefs employee (Tyler Hynes) who meets a woman — played by Hunter King — whose family’s dedication to the team goes back decades. The story was written by Sherman Wolfe, a 49ers fan who was asked to pen it after the Chiefs beat San Francisco in the Super Bowl.“Holiday Touchdown” has several cameos involving Chiefs players along with a small role for Kelce's mother, Donna Kelce. And the team celebrated its pending release Friday by handing out small pennants and pins to fans at the game.___Associated Press writer Alicia Rancilio contributed to this report.

Taylor Swift spends Black Friday amid sea of red as Chiefs face the Raiders

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

In 2005, Southeast of Saline appeared in and won its first state football championship in school history, defeating Silver Lake 30-28.

The road back to that promised land has been anything but straight and simple, but on Friday night, the Trojans have earned an opportunity to play for a second state title in Hutch against the two-time defending state champs in Nemaha Central.

In the 19 years since their last championship appearance, Southeast of Saline underwent a coaching change, joined a league, and fought through several re-classifications, but one thing has remained the same: the tradition of excellence in Gypsum.

Under 15th-year head coach Mitch Gebhardt, the Trojans have posted 12 winning seasons and made several deep playoff runs, but even amidst all that success, the last five years have been a sight to behold.

Since kicking off the 2020 season, Southeast has an overall record of 53-4, with each of those losses capping off a deep playoff run in a state quarter or semifinal.

Those campaigns served as building blocks as the Trojans grew their program from a feel good success story, into an emerging dynasty, and now, just one box remains unchecked.

“We’ve had so many good teams over the years, and all of those guys helped us build towards getting to this game,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “It’s a great feeling to play in this game, and our kids are awfully proud and excited to do it.”

In addition to great teams on the field, Gebhardt has built a small but mighty coaching staff, with Chance Ptacek, Trenton Douglas, Todd Baird and Kent Jacobson helping to elevate the program to new heights.

“The guys I get to coach with are outstanding,” Gebhardt said. “They don’t worry about how long it takes; they just worry about getting the job done, and that’s a big deal when you’re coaching football. Some weeks take longer than others, but those guys do everything they have to put our kids in a position to be successful.”

The Trojans picked up right where they left off in 2024, rolling eight opponents to finish a fifth straight undefeated regular season.&nbsp;

From there, they handed a loss to Larned 76-12, knocked off Norton 34-7, held off Hoisington 30-8, and last week, beat Beloit 34-30 on a thrilling buzzer-beating touchdown.

“I’m really proud of how we handled the situations we faced in that Beloit game,” he said. “Our kids did a great job of not panicking and I think our defense set us up for that finish. We stuck to the game plan, made tackles when we needed to and gave our offense an opportunity to score with 42 seconds left. That was a proud coach moment.”

With 12 wins behind them, just one opponent remains, but the Trojans will have their work cut out for them against a Nemaha Central team that has served as Class 2A’s final boss for three years running.

“Nemaha Central has been outstanding over the years, and their coaching staff does a great job with their guys,” Gebhardt said. “It’s neat that we get to go up against the two-time defending state champs to see how we stack up against them.”

The Thunder have strung together a run rivaling that of SES, winning three state championships since merging Nemaha Valley and Baileyville B&amp;B in 2014.

In addition to two state titles, Nemaha Central boasts a record of 37-1 over the last three years and will be considered favorites by many to three-peat, an outside attitude that suits Southeast just fine.

“If you look at the big picture, they’re the two-time defending state champions, and I think a lot of people will view us as underdogs in this game,” he said. “That’s something that we’ll embrace and talk about, but they’re the champs until they’re not, and we have to take that mentality into this game.”

That lone loss for the Thunder came in a 16-8 headscratcher to Marysville in week one, but since then, Nemaha has been perfect, winning their last seven in the regular season and rolling through Fredonia, Sabetha, Osage City and Council Grove in these playoffs.

Much of Nemaha Central’s success has come on the back of quarterback Carter Hajek, who has completed 60% of his passes for 1,026 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions.

Hajek truly shines on the ground, where he leads the Thunder with 330 carries for 2,148 yards and 38 touchdowns, with just one fumble all season long.

“Their quarterback run game is what that offense revolves around,” Gebhardts said. “You can’t stop that, but you can try to slow it down a little. He gets a lot of the credit but they do a great job with their scheme and blocking for him to make that happen. We’ll have to get a lot of hats to the football and play together on defense on Friday.”

Hajak has certainly garnered a lot of media attention in the buildup to this game and should rightfully be considered the best pure athlete on the field. But with a three-headed monster on offense and a swarming defense that allows just 11 points per game, Southeast will be ready to challenge the kings on Friday night.

Despite being a first-year starter, Gannon Jacobson has already etched his name into the record books at Southeast of Saline, completing 58% of his passes for over 2,000 yards, 31 touchdowns and ten interceptions while also rushing for just shy of 1,000 yards and eight more touchdowns on the ground.

“Gannon works hard, and he’s a good athlete,” he said. “We knew he’d be good, but he’s continued to improve throughout the year. When you struggle with something you get better, and he struggled early on but he’s worked hard at it and things have slowed down for him. He sees things now that he didn’t before.”

While Jacobson rules the air, Grady Gebhardt, the youngest son of head coach Mitch Gebhardt, has owned the ground, toting the rock 176 times for 1,340 yards and 14 touchdowns, adding 20 receptions for 303 yards and two more scores in the passing game.

“Getting an opportunity to coach my kids and the kids in their classes has been outstanding,” he said. “All of them bring something a little different to the table, and I’ve enjoyed every second of it.”

Teams that have managed to slow down Jacobson and Gebhardt have seldom had an answer for Tucker Thaxton on the edge, as the senior has torched opposing secondaries for 935 yards and 14 touchdowns as Jacobson’s favorite target.

“Tucker has great speed but his route running is outstanding,” Gebhardt said. “He’s worked his tail off to get to where he’s at. Defensively, he’s hard-nosed; he’ll come up and make a hard tackle when he needs to but he knows when to hunt that football too.”

All of this is to say nothing of the Trojan defense led by Brody Chambers (66 tackles, 20 TFL, 6 sacks), Kanyon Douglas (98 tackles, 3 INT), Bryson Lippold (66 tackles), and a slew others, who have allowed 21 or more points just one time all season.

While the Trojans have not played in a football state title game since 2005, this group of players is no stranger to pressure, having played through multiple deep playoff runs in almost every sport in Gypsum.

“These kids have played in so many big games between football, basketball, baseball and track,” he said. “I think they’ll handle this moment well. Winning a game like we did last week helps confidence and helps the way you look at things as well.”

A win over Nemaha Central will take nothing less than the Trojan’s best game of football on Friday, but Southeast is ready to leave it all on the field as they look to cap off the first undefeated season in program history with a 2A title.

“We have to make sure that we take care of the football and get first downs on offense,” Gebhardt said. “In games like this every play matters and when we have an opportunity to make a play we have to make a play. Defensively we have to play as a team and get to the football together. In big teams like this a special teams play can also make a big difference.”

Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 on Friday at HCC-Gowans Stadium in Hutch.

As always, the game can be heard locally on KINA (910 AM/107.5 FM) or online at 910KINA.com with Devin Hanney and Russ Cossel on the call.

Due to KSHSAA regulations, the game will not be streamed live on Salina Post but will be available to watch on-demand immediately following the game by clicking <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/trXjgmWexQY">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732804801808.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tanner Colvin" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tanner Colvin</figcaption>
 </figure>By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostIn 2005, Southeast of Saline appeared in and won its first state football championship in school history, defeating Silver Lake 30-28.The road back to that promised land has been anything but straight and simple, but on Friday night, the Trojans have earned an opportunity to play for a second state title in Hutch against the two-time defending state champs in Nemaha Central.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715807615208.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>In the 19 years since their last championship appearance, Southeast of Saline underwent a coaching change, joined a league, and fought through several re-classifications, but one thing has remained the same: the tradition of excellence in Gypsum.Under 15th-year head coach Mitch Gebhardt, the Trojans have posted 12 winning seasons and made several deep playoff runs, but even amidst all that success, the last five years have been a sight to behold.Since kicking off the 2020 season, Southeast has an overall record of 53-4, with each of those losses capping off a deep playoff run in a state quarter or semifinal.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732804861661.jpeg" alt="Grady Gebhardt outruns the Beloit defense in week two. Photo by Tanner Colvin" />
 <figcaption>Grady Gebhardt outruns the Beloit defense in week two. Photo by Tanner Colvin</figcaption>
 </figure>Those campaigns served as building blocks as the Trojans grew their program from a feel good success story, into an emerging dynasty, and now, just one box remains unchecked.“We’ve had so many good teams over the years, and all of those guys helped us build towards getting to this game,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “It’s a great feeling to play in this game, and our kids are awfully proud and excited to do it.”In addition to great teams on the field, Gebhardt has built a small but mighty coaching staff, with Chance Ptacek, Trenton Douglas, Todd Baird and Kent Jacobson helping to elevate the program to new heights.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732804898908.jpeg" alt="The SES coaching staff reacts to a walk-off touchdown against Beloit in the state semifinals. Photo by Tanner Colvin" />
 <figcaption>The SES coaching staff reacts to a walk-off touchdown against Beloit in the state semifinals. Photo by Tanner Colvin</figcaption>
 </figure>“The guys I get to coach with are outstanding,” Gebhardt said. “They don’t worry about how long it takes; they just worry about getting the job done, and that’s a big deal when you’re coaching football. Some weeks take longer than others, but those guys do everything they have to put our kids in a position to be successful.”The Trojans picked up right where they left off in 2024, rolling eight opponents to finish a fifth straight undefeated regular season.&nbsp;From there, they handed a loss to Larned 76-12, knocked off Norton 34-7, held off Hoisington 30-8, and last week, beat Beloit 34-30 on a thrilling buzzer-beating touchdown.“I’m really proud of how we handled the situations we faced in that Beloit game,” he said. “Our kids did a great job of not panicking and I think our defense set us up for that finish. We stuck to the game plan, made tackles when we needed to and gave our offense an opportunity to score with 42 seconds left. That was a proud coach moment.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732804951390.jpeg" alt="Kanyon Douglas holds up the football after catching the game-winning touchdown against Beloit. Photo by Tanner Colvin." />
 <figcaption>Kanyon Douglas holds up the football after catching the game-winning touchdown against Beloit. Photo by Tanner Colvin.</figcaption>
 </figure>With 12 wins behind them, just one opponent remains, but the Trojans will have their work cut out for them against a Nemaha Central team that has served as Class 2A’s final boss for three years running.“Nemaha Central has been outstanding over the years, and their coaching staff does a great job with their guys,” Gebhardt said. “It’s neat that we get to go up against the two-time defending state champs to see how we stack up against them.”The Thunder have strung together a run rivaling that of SES, winning three state championships since merging Nemaha Valley and Baileyville B&amp;B in 2014.In addition to two state titles, Nemaha Central boasts a record of 37-1 over the last three years and will be considered favorites by many to three-peat, an outside attitude that suits Southeast just fine.“If you look at the big picture, they’re the two-time defending state champions, and I think a lot of people will view us as underdogs in this game,” he said. “That’s something that we’ll embrace and talk about, but they’re the champs until they’re not, and we have to take that mentality into this game.”That lone loss for the Thunder came in a 16-8 headscratcher to Marysville in week one, but since then, Nemaha has been perfect, winning their last seven in the regular season and rolling through Fredonia, Sabetha, Osage City and Council Grove in these playoffs.Much of Nemaha Central’s success has come on the back of quarterback Carter Hajek, who has completed 60% of his passes for 1,026 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions.Hajek truly shines on the ground, where he leads the Thunder with 330 carries for 2,148 yards and 38 touchdowns, with just one fumble all season long.“Their quarterback run game is what that offense revolves around,” Gebhardts said. “You can’t stop that, but you can try to slow it down a little. He gets a lot of the credit but they do a great job with their scheme and blocking for him to make that happen. We’ll have to get a lot of hats to the football and play together on defense on Friday.”Hajak has certainly garnered a lot of media attention in the buildup to this game and should rightfully be considered the best pure athlete on the field. But with a three-headed monster on offense and a swarming defense that allows just 11 points per game, Southeast will be ready to challenge the kings on Friday night.Despite being a first-year starter, Gannon Jacobson has already etched his name into the record books at Southeast of Saline, completing 58% of his passes for over 2,000 yards, 31 touchdowns and ten interceptions while also rushing for just shy of 1,000 yards and eight more touchdowns on the ground.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732805003081.jpeg" alt="Gannon Jacobson winds up a pass against the Beloit Trojans. Photo courtesy of Tanner Colvin." />
 <figcaption>Gannon Jacobson winds up a pass against the Beloit Trojans. Photo courtesy of Tanner Colvin.</figcaption>
 </figure>“Gannon works hard, and he’s a good athlete,” he said. “We knew he’d be good, but he’s continued to improve throughout the year. When you struggle with something you get better, and he struggled early on but he’s worked hard at it and things have slowed down for him. He sees things now that he didn’t before.”While Jacobson rules the air, Grady Gebhardt, the youngest son of head coach Mitch Gebhardt, has owned the ground, toting the rock 176 times for 1,340 yards and 14 touchdowns, adding 20 receptions for 303 yards and two more scores in the passing game.“Getting an opportunity to coach my kids and the kids in their classes has been outstanding,” he said. “All of them bring something a little different to the table, and I’ve enjoyed every second of it.”Teams that have managed to slow down Jacobson and Gebhardt have seldom had an answer for Tucker Thaxton on the edge, as the senior has torched opposing secondaries for 935 yards and 14 touchdowns as Jacobson’s favorite target.“Tucker has great speed but his route running is outstanding,” Gebhardt said. “He’s worked his tail off to get to where he’s at. Defensively, he’s hard-nosed; he’ll come up and make a hard tackle when he needs to but he knows when to hunt that football too.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732805044488.jpeg" alt="Tucker Thaxton extends to make a one-handed catch. Photo by Tanner Colvin." />
 <figcaption>Tucker Thaxton extends to make a one-handed catch. Photo by Tanner Colvin.</figcaption>
 </figure>All of this is to say nothing of the Trojan defense led by Brody Chambers (66 tackles, 20 TFL, 6 sacks), Kanyon Douglas (98 tackles, 3 INT), Bryson Lippold (66 tackles), and a slew others, who have allowed 21 or more points just one time all season.While the Trojans have not played in a football state title game since 2005, this group of players is no stranger to pressure, having played through multiple deep playoff runs in almost every sport in Gypsum.“These kids have played in so many big games between football, basketball, baseball and track,” he said. “I think they’ll handle this moment well. Winning a game like we did last week helps confidence and helps the way you look at things as well.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732805077472.jpeg" alt="SES breaks down the huddle after defeating Beloit in the state semifinal. Photo by Tanner Colvin." />
 <figcaption>SES breaks down the huddle after defeating Beloit in the state semifinal. Photo by Tanner Colvin.</figcaption>
 </figure>A win over Nemaha Central will take nothing less than the Trojan’s best game of football on Friday, but Southeast is ready to leave it all on the field as they look to cap off the first undefeated season in program history with a 2A title.“We have to make sure that we take care of the football and get first downs on offense,” Gebhardt said. “In games like this every play matters and when we have an opportunity to make a play we have to make a play. Defensively we have to play as a team and get to the football together. In big teams like this a special teams play can also make a big difference.”Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 on Friday at HCC-Gowans Stadium in Hutch.As always, the game can be heard locally on KINA (910 AM/107.5 FM) or online at 910KINA.com with Devin Hanney and Russ Cossel on the call.Due to KSHSAA regulations, the game will not be streamed live on Salina Post but will be available to watch on-demand immediately following the game by clicking <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/trXjgmWexQY">HERE</a>.

Trojans travel to Hutch for state showdown with defending champion Nemaha Central

ELLIS COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for attempting to follow through on a social media threat against a victim at their residence.

Just before 7:30a.m. Wednesday, police received a report of a criminal threat in the city of Ellis, according to a media release.

The reporting person stated that they had observed posts on a Facebook page that specifically named two Ellis community members and was concerning in nature.

Police were able to verify the existence of the post and began investigating the credibility of the threat. Police contacted one of the community members named in the Facebook post at their residence.

While the officer was on scene gathering information and advising the community member about the post, Nathan Harwick, 43, of Ellis, showed up at the community member’s residence armed with what the officer on scene perceived to be a long metal pipe.

Fearing for the safety of the community member and their family who were present in the house, the officer on scene drew his service weapon and began giving commands for Harwick to drop the object he was displaying in his hands. Harwick was compliant and was subsequently arrested without further incident.

The officer on-scene later contacted the other community member who was named in the Facebook post and verified that they were unharmed.&nbsp;

Harwick was transported to the Ellis County Jail, where he was booked on requested charges of aggravated assault x2, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, and criminal threat. No injuries were reported.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732833299050.png" alt="Harwick photo Ellis County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Harwick photo Ellis County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for attempting to follow through on a social media threat against a victim at their residence.Just before 7:30a.m. Wednesday, police received a report of a criminal threat in the city of Ellis, according to a media release.The reporting person stated that they had observed posts on a Facebook page that specifically named two Ellis community members and was concerning in nature.Police were able to verify the existence of the post and began investigating the credibility of the threat. Police contacted one of the community members named in the Facebook post at their residence.While the officer was on scene gathering information and advising the community member about the post, Nathan Harwick, 43, of Ellis, showed up at the community member’s residence armed with what the officer on scene perceived to be a long metal pipe.Fearing for the safety of the community member and their family who were present in the house, the officer on scene drew his service weapon and began giving commands for Harwick to drop the object he was displaying in his hands. Harwick was compliant and was subsequently arrested without further incident.The officer on-scene later contacted the other community member who was named in the Facebook post and verified that they were unharmed.&nbsp;Harwick was transported to the Ellis County Jail, where he was booked on requested charges of aggravated assault x2, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, and criminal threat. No injuries were reported.

Police: Kansas man jailed for alleged social media threat

By&nbsp;JEREMY BOHN K-State Salina &nbsp;

Imagine this: A student is immersed in cutting-edge technology, learning from industry experts who bring years of research and real-world experience into the classroom. They sit at a desk in a traditional setting, and they can see their fellow students sitting beside them, intently listening as an instructor writes on a board or discusses the lesson of the day.

What unfolds next is anything but ordinary.

At the end of class, the student slides off their virtual reality, or VR, headset, and opens their eyes not to a classroom, but to their living room, a work office or even a coffee shop.

This isn’t a vision for the future – it’s a reality today for many students at Kansas State University Salina.

Through the integration of virtual environments, K-State Salina is redefining the educational experience, connecting learners across the globe in real time.

“ Through these VR headsets, we have a virtual classroom that we can step into with a whiteboard that we can draw on," said Henry Kerschen, senior in computer systems technology, Olathe. “This campus has done a great job of preparing all of us to have that real, thoughtful development as we’ve worked," Kerschen continued. "What has been that for me is a fully comprehensive experience and it’s given me a good base foundation of information that I can really take with me anywhere.”

K-AIRES will be hub for cutting-edge education, Pure Imagination Studios

As Kansas State University’s College of Aviation and Technology, the Salina campus is setting the standard for technical education, especially in the aerospace and technology industries. Through its expertise in pioneering technologies such as artificial intelligence, augmented reality, virtual reality and cyber-physical systems, K-State Salina is shaping the future of education and advancing the mission of Kansas State University as the next-generation land-grant university.

“The instructors at K-State Salina have done a great job of introducing us to new technology,” Kerschen said. “As students, we have this unique opportunity to play with VR headsets and engage in that immersive experience, and we have a lot of tools that allow us to get hands-on with our own educational experiments.”

In August, K-State Salina broke ground on facilities for its new, one-of-a-kind partnership with Pure Imagination Studios, a global leader in immersive entertainment.

This collaboration led to the creation of the K-AIRES center, a $41 million, 47,500-square-foot facility that will be a hub for cutting-edge education and innovation. K-AIRES will house a production lab for Pure Imagination Studios, which has worked on high-profile projects for Netflix, DreamWorks, FOX, The LEGO Group, Marvel Entertainment and others.

“Our students will be working alongside Pure Imagination employees and creatives learning how the industry works,” said Michael Oetken, assistant professor in immersive systems design and director of K-AIRES. “They’ll get to work on projects with Pure Imagination Labs as well as engage in experiential learning with K-State Salina faculty. It’s an exciting new chapter in applied learning on our campus and a great way to gain an education.”

K-State is not waiting for construction to be complete. Students are already learning how to apply advanced technologies daily, from cyber-physical systems to how software and data components interact with the world.

Students are already learning how to autonomously navigate drones through programming, control systems, computer vision and image processing.

“At K-State Salina, we are changing the landscape of education,” said Balaji Balasubramaniam, assistant professor in computer systems technology and graduate program coordinator for the machine learning and autonomous systems certificate. “We are giving the students the experience of using these advanced technologies in the classroom. Students are provided opportunities to immerse themselves through work-study, hands-on projects in class and assisting in research.”

K-State Salina students learn real-world skills to build the future

K-State Salina is not only transforming higher education, but also preparing students for careers in industries that are rapidly evolving.

One area seeing massive technological growth is agriculture, where K-State Salina’s expertise in AI, VR and machine learning is making an impact.

Agriculture companies are embracing AI and digital technologies to enhance precision farming. From tractor mapping software to AI-driven agricultural spray aircraft, these innovations are making farming more efficient and cost-effective.

Austin Chart, a graduate student in integrated systems design and dynamics, Salina, is using K-State Salina’s advanced technologies to improve agricultural practices.

“Farming in general has been a lot more systematic, it’s become much more precision-based, and that level of precision is becoming more and more accurate by the day, especially with this type of technology,” Chart said. “Innovations like machine learning, autonomous systems and AI help producers save money because farmers, using the tools and machines at their disposal, understand their land best and know where to properly apply products.”

Students at K-State Salina have access to industry-standard tools like VR headsets, robots, three-dimensional modeling software and programming software like Unreal Engine — all of which allow them to experiment and build their own projects.

The combination of hands-on learning, industry partnerships and cutting-edge technology sets K-State Salina apart.

Chart credits the hands-on nature of K-State Salina’s courses and the faculty’s connections to industry in helping him prepare to affect the agriculture industry with new technologies.

“Getting your education at K-State Salina feels a little bit like you’re at Hogwarts," Chart said. "We’re not just reading a book — we’re learning the spells. Students are creating programs, creating games and doing these things hands-on and in real-time. I think it’s something that distinguishes K-State from a lot of others around country.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732720637314.jpeg" alt="A K-State Salina student uses a virtual reality headset to participate in a virtual classroom." />
 <figcaption>A K-State Salina student uses a virtual reality headset to participate in a virtual classroom.</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;JEREMY BOHN K-State Salina &nbsp;Imagine this: A student is immersed in cutting-edge technology, learning from industry experts who bring years of research and real-world experience into the classroom. They sit at a desk in a traditional setting, and they can see their fellow students sitting beside them, intently listening as an instructor writes on a board or discusses the lesson of the day.What unfolds next is anything but ordinary.At the end of class, the student slides off their virtual reality, or VR, headset, and opens their eyes not to a classroom, but to their living room, a work office or even a coffee shop.This isn’t a vision for the future – it’s a reality today for many students at Kansas State University Salina.Through the integration of virtual environments, K-State Salina is redefining the educational experience, connecting learners across the globe in real time.“ Through these VR headsets, we have a virtual classroom that we can step into with a whiteboard that we can draw on," said Henry Kerschen, senior in computer systems technology, Olathe. “This campus has done a great job of preparing all of us to have that real, thoughtful development as we’ve worked," Kerschen continued. "What has been that for me is a fully comprehensive experience and it’s given me a good base foundation of information that I can really take with me anywhere.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732720788495.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>K-AIRES will be hub for cutting-edge education, Pure Imagination Studios</h2>As Kansas State University’s College of Aviation and Technology, the Salina campus is setting the standard for technical education, especially in the aerospace and technology industries. Through its expertise in pioneering technologies such as artificial intelligence, augmented reality, virtual reality and cyber-physical systems, K-State Salina is shaping the future of education and advancing the mission of Kansas State University as the next-generation land-grant university.“The instructors at K-State Salina have done a great job of introducing us to new technology,” Kerschen said. “As students, we have this unique opportunity to play with VR headsets and engage in that immersive experience, and we have a lot of tools that allow us to get hands-on with our own educational experiments.”In August, K-State Salina broke ground on facilities for its new, one-of-a-kind partnership with Pure Imagination Studios, a global leader in immersive entertainment.This collaboration led to the creation of the K-AIRES center, a $41 million, 47,500-square-foot facility that will be a hub for cutting-edge education and innovation. K-AIRES will house a production lab for Pure Imagination Studios, which has worked on high-profile projects for Netflix, DreamWorks, FOX, The LEGO Group, Marvel Entertainment and others.“Our students will be working alongside Pure Imagination employees and creatives learning how the industry works,” said Michael Oetken, assistant professor in immersive systems design and director of K-AIRES. “They’ll get to work on projects with Pure Imagination Labs as well as engage in experiential learning with K-State Salina faculty. It’s an exciting new chapter in applied learning on our campus and a great way to gain an education.”K-State is not waiting for construction to be complete. Students are already learning how to apply advanced technologies daily, from cyber-physical systems to how software and data components interact with the world.Students are already learning how to autonomously navigate drones through programming, control systems, computer vision and image processing.“At K-State Salina, we are changing the landscape of education,” said Balaji Balasubramaniam, assistant professor in computer systems technology and graduate program coordinator for the machine learning and autonomous systems certificate. “We are giving the students the experience of using these advanced technologies in the classroom. Students are provided opportunities to immerse themselves through work-study, hands-on projects in class and assisting in research.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732720689531.jpeg" alt="Balaju Balasubramaniam, assistant professor, instructs students on website terminology during class" />
 <figcaption>Balaju Balasubramaniam, assistant professor, instructs students on website terminology during class</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>K-State Salina students learn real-world skills to build the future</h2>K-State Salina is not only transforming higher education, but also preparing students for careers in industries that are rapidly evolving.One area seeing massive technological growth is agriculture, where K-State Salina’s expertise in AI, VR and machine learning is making an impact.Agriculture companies are embracing AI and digital technologies to enhance precision farming. From tractor mapping software to AI-driven agricultural spray aircraft, these innovations are making farming more efficient and cost-effective.Austin Chart, a graduate student in integrated systems design and dynamics, Salina, is using K-State Salina’s advanced technologies to improve agricultural practices.“Farming in general has been a lot more systematic, it’s become much more precision-based, and that level of precision is becoming more and more accurate by the day, especially with this type of technology,” Chart said. “Innovations like machine learning, autonomous systems and AI help producers save money because farmers, using the tools and machines at their disposal, understand their land best and know where to properly apply products.”Students at K-State Salina have access to industry-standard tools like VR headsets, robots, three-dimensional modeling software and programming software like Unreal Engine — all of which allow them to experiment and build their own projects.The combination of hands-on learning, industry partnerships and cutting-edge technology sets K-State Salina apart.Chart credits the hands-on nature of K-State Salina’s courses and the faculty’s connections to industry in helping him prepare to affect the agriculture industry with new technologies.“Getting your education at K-State Salina feels a little bit like you’re at Hogwarts," Chart said. "We’re not just reading a book — we’re learning the spells. Students are creating programs, creating games and doing these things hands-on and in real-time. I think it’s something that distinguishes K-State from a lot of others around country.”

K-State Salina's virtual reality education is like ‘learning the spells’ at Hogwarts

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations following two separate incidents.

Just before 5:30p.m. November 18, a sheriff's deputy observed a black 2005 Cadillac STS near SW 6th Avenue and SW Topeka Boulevard, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

The vehicle was reported stolen out of Kansas City, Kan., after the owner met two individuals on a social media platform’s marketplace. They met at a gas station and the two prospective buyers asked to test drive the vehicle and never returned.

The deputy conducted a traffic stop and two individuals were placed into custody. Danielle L. M. Lee, 25, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections (SNDOC) on the requested charges&nbsp;Possession of stolen property; value $1,500 to $25,000 and&nbsp;Driving while license suspended.

Antonio S. Jones, 19, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the SNDOC on requested charges that include Possession of stolen property; value $1,500 to $25,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732384030697.png" alt="Jones-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Jones-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations following two separate incidents.Just before 5:30p.m. November 18, a sheriff's deputy observed a black 2005 Cadillac STS near SW 6th Avenue and SW Topeka Boulevard, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732383908550.png" alt="Lee-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Lee-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The vehicle was reported stolen out of Kansas City, Kan., after the owner met two individuals on a social media platform’s marketplace. They met at a gas station and the two prospective buyers asked to test drive the vehicle and never returned.The deputy conducted a traffic stop and two individuals were placed into custody. Danielle L. M. Lee, 25, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections (SNDOC) on the requested charges&nbsp;Possession of stolen property; value $1,500 to $25,000 and&nbsp;Driving while license suspended.Antonio S. Jones, 19, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the SNDOC on requested charges that include Possession of stolen property; value $1,500 to $25,000.