HOUSTON (AP) —Jack Burke Jr., who was the oldest living Masters champion and staged the greatest comeback ever at Augusta National for one of his two majors, died Friday in Houston. He was 100.

Burke, a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame, also won the PGA Championship and was equally skilled as a teacher. He built the fabled Champions Golf Club in Houston and delivered lessons along with a dose of homespun wisdom.

“Why did golf give us 34 rules when God only gave us 10 commandments?” he said over dinner at his home in Houston in 2000, one of endless examples of a sharp wit always grounded in common sense.

His passing was confirmed by Steve Timms, the CEO and president of the Houston Golf Association who spoke with Burke's wife, Robin.

Burke won two majors in 1956 when he was the PGA player of the year, none more famous than his staggering rally at the Masters when he started the final round eight shots behind Ken Venturi. In conditions so blustery only two players broke par, Burke posted a 1-under 71 for a one-shot victory over Venturi, who shot 80.

Later that year, Burke defeated Ted Kroll, 3 and 2, to win the PGA Championship.

Those were among his 16 victories on the PGA Tour, including four straight in early 1952, three of them by six shots or more. He was on five straight Ryder Cup teams and won seven of his eight matches. The lone loss was in 1957 when Burke was a playing captain and Great Britain won for the first time since World War II.

Burke’s last PGA Tour victory was in 1963, but his career was far from over. He was as much a teacher as a player, and a Texan through and through.

Born in Fort Worth, he grew up in Houston while his father, Jack Burke, was the head pro at River Oaks Country Club. His father died when Burke was serving in the Marines during World War II, where he taught combat skills at Miramar near San Diego.

“They asked me to help with teaching martial arts because, as a golfer, I’m familiar with timing and balance — and both are very important,” Burke told the USGA in 2017. “I had been instructing golf all my life because my dad taught me how to teach. So teaching these other things was not a problem.”

When the war ended, Burke became a teaching pro in New Jersey and then got a job as an assistant under Claude Harmon at Winged Foot. That led to a club pro job at Metropolis Country Club in New York.

He finished 45th on the money list in nine events in 1949, and he was credited with his first PGA Tour victory a year later at the Bing Crosby Pro-Am at Pebble Beach.

For all he achieved inside the ropes, Burke is equally known for his teaching skills. He could be funny and harsh, always getting his point across, all for the love of the game.

“When a primitive hunter threw a spear at his prey, you better believe he followed through and finished with his weight on his left foot,” Burke once said. “Reverse pivots in the jungle could be fatal. That saber-toothed tiger would eat you.”

Burke was perturbed when a member at Champions asked him for a quick look at his swing. Burke offered a suggestion and as he walked away, the member said, “Thanks for the tip.”

“I don’t give tips,” Burke wrote in his book. “This isn’t Churchill Downs. It took me 60 years to acquire the knowledge necessary to offer that man a suggestion. Just because the advice comprised one sentence doesn’t mean it didn’t include a lot of thought.”

His book was titled, “It’s Only a Game,” and was published in 2006, two years after he served as an assistant captain at the Ryder Cup in 2004 at Oakland Hills, where Europe recorded its biggest victory. Burke cited the high-priced tuxedos they wore to the gala as an example of how riches in golf had softened the players. He also mentioned how much players seemed to enjoy their time playing table tennis and video games.

“I closed my eyes and imagined Ben Hogan sitting at the car racing game, his hat turned backwards, giggling and shouting to Arnold Palmer, who was waiting his turn,” Burke wrote.

He was old-school even when he was young, the son of a PGA professional, a straight shooter from Texas who learned from Claude Harmon and others.

Burke was part of the original PGA Hall of Fame in Pinehurst and was among PGA champions not ushered into the new World Golf Hall of Fame when it opened in 1998 in Florida. But he was the first one selected through the Veteran’s Category in 2000.

Burke was among eight inducted that evening and as he stood at the podium on a typical emotional ceremony, he quipped, “With all these tears, I might be standing in casual water.”

But he paid a somber tribute to so many PGA professionals who were not in the new shrine, from Harmon to Jack Grout, Johnny Revolta to Paul Runyan.

“Without these great teachers, none of us would be in here,” Burke said. “Those fellas are probably not going to get in the Hall of Fame, but I want to say to you tonight, ‘You’re coming in with me.’ I’m bringing the teachers in.”

His second wife, Robin, was the Curtis Cup captain in 2016 and helped Burke run Champions. The club hosted the U.S. Women’s Open in December 2020. Burke was 97 and still engaging, a twinkle in those blue eyes, irreverent as always.

“The USGA has never owned a golf course,” he said that week at his home. “But they come to your course and tell you how to run it.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705683931189.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HOUSTON (AP) —Jack Burke Jr., who was the oldest living Masters champion and staged the greatest comeback ever at Augusta National for one of his two majors, died Friday in Houston. He was 100.Burke, a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame, also won the PGA Championship and was equally skilled as a teacher. He built the fabled Champions Golf Club in Houston and delivered lessons along with a dose of homespun wisdom.“Why did golf give us 34 rules when God only gave us 10 commandments?” he said over dinner at his home in Houston in 2000, one of endless examples of a sharp wit always grounded in common sense.His passing was confirmed by Steve Timms, the CEO and president of the Houston Golf Association who spoke with Burke's wife, Robin.Burke won two majors in 1956 when he was the PGA player of the year, none more famous than his staggering rally at the Masters when he started the final round eight shots behind Ken Venturi. In conditions so blustery only two players broke par, Burke posted a 1-under 71 for a one-shot victory over Venturi, who shot 80.Later that year, Burke defeated Ted Kroll, 3 and 2, to win the PGA Championship.Those were among his 16 victories on the PGA Tour, including four straight in early 1952, three of them by six shots or more. He was on five straight Ryder Cup teams and won seven of his eight matches. The lone loss was in 1957 when Burke was a playing captain and Great Britain won for the first time since World War II.Burke’s last PGA Tour victory was in 1963, but his career was far from over. He was as much a teacher as a player, and a Texan through and through.Born in Fort Worth, he grew up in Houston while his father, Jack Burke, was the head pro at River Oaks Country Club. His father died when Burke was serving in the Marines during World War II, where he taught combat skills at Miramar near San Diego.“They asked me to help with teaching martial arts because, as a golfer, I’m familiar with timing and balance — and both are very important,” Burke told the USGA in 2017. “I had been instructing golf all my life because my dad taught me how to teach. So teaching these other things was not a problem.”When the war ended, Burke became a teaching pro in New Jersey and then got a job as an assistant under Claude Harmon at Winged Foot. That led to a club pro job at Metropolis Country Club in New York.He finished 45th on the money list in nine events in 1949, and he was credited with his first PGA Tour victory a year later at the Bing Crosby Pro-Am at Pebble Beach.For all he achieved inside the ropes, Burke is equally known for his teaching skills. He could be funny and harsh, always getting his point across, all for the love of the game.“When a primitive hunter threw a spear at his prey, you better believe he followed through and finished with his weight on his left foot,” Burke once said. “Reverse pivots in the jungle could be fatal. That saber-toothed tiger would eat you.”Burke was perturbed when a member at Champions asked him for a quick look at his swing. Burke offered a suggestion and as he walked away, the member said, “Thanks for the tip.”“I don’t give tips,” Burke wrote in his book. “This isn’t Churchill Downs. It took me 60 years to acquire the knowledge necessary to offer that man a suggestion. Just because the advice comprised one sentence doesn’t mean it didn’t include a lot of thought.”His book was titled, “It’s Only a Game,” and was published in 2006, two years after he served as an assistant captain at the Ryder Cup in 2004 at Oakland Hills, where Europe recorded its biggest victory. Burke cited the high-priced tuxedos they wore to the gala as an example of how riches in golf had softened the players. He also mentioned how much players seemed to enjoy their time playing table tennis and video games.“I closed my eyes and imagined Ben Hogan sitting at the car racing game, his hat turned backwards, giggling and shouting to Arnold Palmer, who was waiting his turn,” Burke wrote.He was old-school even when he was young, the son of a PGA professional, a straight shooter from Texas who learned from Claude Harmon and others.Burke was part of the original PGA Hall of Fame in Pinehurst and was among PGA champions not ushered into the new World Golf Hall of Fame when it opened in 1998 in Florida. But he was the first one selected through the Veteran’s Category in 2000.Burke was among eight inducted that evening and as he stood at the podium on a typical emotional ceremony, he quipped, “With all these tears, I might be standing in casual water.”But he paid a somber tribute to so many PGA professionals who were not in the new shrine, from Harmon to Jack Grout, Johnny Revolta to Paul Runyan.“Without these great teachers, none of us would be in here,” Burke said. “Those fellas are probably not going to get in the Hall of Fame, but I want to say to you tonight, ‘You’re coming in with me.’ I’m bringing the teachers in.”His second wife, Robin, was the Curtis Cup captain in 2016 and helped Burke run Champions. The club hosted the U.S. Women’s Open in December 2020. Burke was 97 and still engaging, a twinkle in those blue eyes, irreverent as always.“The USGA has never owned a golf course,” he said that week at his home. “But they come to your course and tell you how to run it.”

Jack Burke Jr., oldest living Masters champion, has died at age 100

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations after a high-speed chase.

A speeding truck led a short chase in North Douglas Co. before the driver, who is known to start violent pursuits, rammed into a patrol vehicle, lost control of his pickup and was soon arrested.

Just before 1:30 a.m. on Monday, police attempted to stop a Chevrolet pickup truck after the driver later identified as 48-year-old Steven Drake had been seen speeding near E. 1600 Road and Highway 24, according to a media release.

Drake initially slowed the truck and then immediately began to accelerate again and the prompted a pursuit.

During the pursuit, deputies successfully implemented a tactical-vehicle-intervention maneuver. However, Drake was able to recover and head east on the highway.

As deputies attempted to identify the driver, he rammed into a patrol vehicle which caused the truck to veer into the ditch and break off the wheel at the axle.

Deputies then took Drake into custody and booked him into the Douglas County jail on requested charges of aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer and fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement. There were no injuries reported.

In June of 2022, police asked the&nbsp; public for help to locate Drake after he led police on two vehicle pursuits within a week.

Drake has previous felony convictions that include forgery, assault, theft, aggravated endangering a child, obstruction, aggravated interference with parental control, driving while suspended and three convictions for fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654253731903.png" alt="Drake-photo Lawrence Police" />
 <figcaption>Drake-photo Lawrence Police</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations after a high-speed chase.A speeding truck led a short chase in North Douglas Co. before the driver, who is known to start violent pursuits, rammed into a patrol vehicle, lost control of his pickup and was soon arrested.Just before 1:30 a.m. on Monday, police attempted to stop a Chevrolet pickup truck after the driver later identified as 48-year-old Steven Drake had been seen speeding near E. 1600 Road and Highway 24, according to a media release.Drake initially slowed the truck and then immediately began to accelerate again and the prompted a pursuit.During the pursuit, deputies successfully implemented a tactical-vehicle-intervention maneuver. However, Drake was able to recover and head east on the highway.As deputies attempted to identify the driver, he rammed into a patrol vehicle which caused the truck to veer into the ditch and break off the wheel at the axle.Deputies then took Drake into custody and booked him into the Douglas County jail on requested charges of aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer and fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement. There were no injuries reported.In June of 2022, police asked the&nbsp; public for help to locate Drake after he led police on two vehicle pursuits within a week.Drake has previous felony convictions that include forgery, assault, theft, aggravated endangering a child, obstruction, aggravated interference with parental control, driving while suspended and three convictions for fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.&nbsp;

Driver rams Kan. patrol vehicle during high-speed chase

On Jan. 25 to Jan. 27, Salina Central High School Theatre will present the musical "Newsies!" by Alen Menken and Jack Feldman, based on Harvey Fierstein's book.

<a href="https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/salina-central-high-school/64ebbf70a6bf620e3f2c3848">Tickets are on sale online</a>&nbsp;and will also be available at performances. Ticket prices for the production are $7 for adults, $5 for students with ZERO credit service charges added to this price if using a credit card online to pre-purchase tickets. Running time is approximately 2 hours, which includes one 15-minute intermission between each act.

This production is being submitted to the Jester Awards at the Music Theatre of Wichita for adjudication.

The production&nbsp;is&nbsp;directed by Barbara Hilt, Central High School Theatre teacher and program director, who is&nbsp;assisted by Bill Weaver, Central High School Technical Director,&nbsp;Music Direction by Ryan Holmquist, Central High School Vocal Music Director and Pit Conduction by Lindsay Modin, Central High School Orchestra Director,&nbsp;and Choreography by&nbsp;Maggie Spicer-Brown&nbsp;of Theatre Salina Center for the Arts&nbsp;Education Instructor. Guillermo Rodriguez, Central High School Band Director, will serve as Sound Designer.

Based on the 1992 Disney film Newsies is the tale of newsboy Jack Kelly, who dreams of a better life far from the hardship of the streets. When Joseph Pulitzer and William&nbsp;Randolph Hearst raise distribution prices, Jack finds a cause to fight for and rallies his army of newsies to strike.

“Newsies!&nbsp;is one of my favorite musicals because it inspires such hope&nbsp;in what is possible when the underdogs of a story work together to achieve justice for everyone. Students at Salina Central have been putting their best efforts forward for the four years that I have been the theatre instructor and this show is no exception to the excellence that the community has come to expect from our productions. The music score by Alan Menken (who has written music for many Disney films) is all exciting and catchy tunes that you will be singing on your way out of the theater. When I started at Central four years ago, this was the last musical that I directed at my previous school and it created such a spirit of teamwork that I was excited to direct this production again. All of the staff have worked diligently to produce amazing dances, vocal work, scenery, costumes, and a truly outstanding orchestra. You won’t want to miss&nbsp;Newsies!” said Director Barbara Hilt.

JACK: Donovan Johnson KATHERINE: Grace Corman DAVEY: Wyatt Angell CRUTCHIE: Zander Flener LES: Sam Reynolds PULITZER: Gage Gibson MEDDA LARKIN: Michelle Simmons RACETRACK: Andrew Graber FINCH: Kaiden Comeau MUSH: Alyssa Maas JOJO: Mari Brown-Mereles ALBERT: Bishop Talbott SPECS: Gabriel Freeland HENRY: Kort Comeau ROMEO: Mac Sheforgen ELMER: Addilyn Jagodzinske BUTTONS: Katie Morgan SPLASHER: Brynn Shaft TOMMY BOY: Ellie Riekhof MIKE: Mackenzie Martinez IKE: Rocelyn Show HANNAH: Anna Kraft BUNSEN: Marcos Lira SEITZ: Kaiden Christmann DARCY: Seth Lepping BILL: Avery Jeakins OSCAR DELANCEY: Ben Campbell MORRIS DELANCEY: Avery Jeakins WIESEL: Hudson Duff SNYDER: Will Ebel NUNZIO: Joseph Zepeda GUARD: Ben Campbell SPOT CONLON: Kaiden Comeau SCABS: Lillie Crow, Anna Kraft, Madison Berndt NUNS: Lillie Crow, Sarah Day, Madison Berndt BOWERY BEAUTIES: Brynn Shaft, Mari Brown-Mereles, Katie Morgan, Rocelyn Show, Mackenzie Martinez, Addilyn Jagodzinske STAGE MANAGER: Alyx Parker MR. JACOBI: Bill Weaver WOMAN: Lillie Crow MAYOR: Joseph Zepeda GOVERNOR TEDDY ROOSEVELT: Ben Campbell NEWSIES:&nbsp;Alyxandria Aldrich, Tru Lawson, Lillian LaMarca, Angelica Dao, Daisey McWhorter, Lillian Crow, Ava Weaverling, Aerith Cox, Lexi Foos, Dayzie Frank, Alyx Parker, Avery Jeakins, Sarah Day, Anna Kraft, Seth Lepping, Madison Berndt

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705630310081.jpeg" alt="Salina Central High School Theatre students rehearse the musical "Newsies!" while preparing for opening night on Jan. 25. Photo courtesy Salina Central High School." />
 <figcaption>Salina Central High School Theatre students rehearse the musical "Newsies!" while preparing for opening night on Jan. 25. Photo courtesy Salina Central High School.</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTOn Jan. 25 to Jan. 27, Salina Central High School Theatre will present the musical "Newsies!" by Alen Menken and Jack Feldman, based on Harvey Fierstein's book.<a href="https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/salina-central-high-school/64ebbf70a6bf620e3f2c3848">Tickets are on sale online</a>&nbsp;and will also be available at performances. Ticket prices for the production are $7 for adults, $5 for students with ZERO credit service charges added to this price if using a credit card online to pre-purchase tickets. Running time is approximately 2 hours, which includes one 15-minute intermission between each act.This production is being submitted to the Jester Awards at the Music Theatre of Wichita for adjudication.The production&nbsp;is&nbsp;directed by Barbara Hilt, Central High School Theatre teacher and program director, who is&nbsp;assisted by Bill Weaver, Central High School Technical Director,&nbsp;Music Direction by Ryan Holmquist, Central High School Vocal Music Director and Pit Conduction by Lindsay Modin, Central High School Orchestra Director,&nbsp;and Choreography by&nbsp;Maggie Spicer-Brown&nbsp;of Theatre Salina Center for the Arts&nbsp;Education Instructor. Guillermo Rodriguez, Central High School Band Director, will serve as Sound Designer.<h2>Synopsis of the&nbsp;Musical</h2>Based on the 1992 Disney film Newsies is the tale of newsboy Jack Kelly, who dreams of a better life far from the hardship of the streets. When Joseph Pulitzer and William&nbsp;Randolph Hearst raise distribution prices, Jack finds a cause to fight for and rallies his army of newsies to strike.“Newsies!&nbsp;is one of my favorite musicals because it inspires such hope&nbsp;in what is possible when the underdogs of a story work together to achieve justice for everyone. Students at Salina Central have been putting their best efforts forward for the four years that I have been the theatre instructor and this show is no exception to the excellence that the community has come to expect from our productions. The music score by Alan Menken (who has written music for many Disney films) is all exciting and catchy tunes that you will be singing on your way out of the theater. When I started at Central four years ago, this was the last musical that I directed at my previous school and it created such a spirit of teamwork that I was excited to direct this production again. All of the staff have worked diligently to produce amazing dances, vocal work, scenery, costumes, and a truly outstanding orchestra. You won’t want to miss&nbsp;Newsies!” said Director Barbara Hilt.<h2>Cast</h2>JACK: Donovan Johnson KATHERINE: Grace Corman DAVEY: Wyatt Angell CRUTCHIE: Zander Flener LES: Sam Reynolds PULITZER: Gage Gibson MEDDA LARKIN: Michelle Simmons RACETRACK: Andrew Graber FINCH: Kaiden Comeau MUSH: Alyssa Maas JOJO: Mari Brown-Mereles ALBERT: Bishop Talbott SPECS: Gabriel Freeland HENRY: Kort Comeau ROMEO: Mac Sheforgen ELMER: Addilyn Jagodzinske BUTTONS: Katie Morgan SPLASHER: Brynn Shaft TOMMY BOY: Ellie Riekhof MIKE: Mackenzie Martinez IKE: Rocelyn Show HANNAH: Anna Kraft BUNSEN: Marcos Lira SEITZ: Kaiden Christmann DARCY: Seth Lepping BILL: Avery Jeakins OSCAR DELANCEY: Ben Campbell MORRIS DELANCEY: Avery Jeakins WIESEL: Hudson Duff SNYDER: Will Ebel NUNZIO: Joseph Zepeda GUARD: Ben Campbell SPOT CONLON: Kaiden Comeau SCABS: Lillie Crow, Anna Kraft, Madison Berndt NUNS: Lillie Crow, Sarah Day, Madison Berndt BOWERY BEAUTIES: Brynn Shaft, Mari Brown-Mereles, Katie Morgan, Rocelyn Show, Mackenzie Martinez, Addilyn Jagodzinske STAGE MANAGER: Alyx Parker MR. JACOBI: Bill Weaver WOMAN: Lillie Crow MAYOR: Joseph Zepeda GOVERNOR TEDDY ROOSEVELT: Ben Campbell NEWSIES:&nbsp;Alyxandria Aldrich, Tru Lawson, Lillian LaMarca, Angelica Dao, Daisey McWhorter, Lillian Crow, Ava Weaverling, Aerith Cox, Lexi Foos, Dayzie Frank, Alyx Parker, Avery Jeakins, Sarah Day, Anna Kraft, Seth Lepping, Madison Berndt

Salina Central Theatre presents, 'Newsies!' Jan. 25-27

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A teen accused in a deadly shooting has been moved from a jail in Oklahoma to Kansas

Just after noon Tuesday, deputies booked 19-year-old James Sawyer into the Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges of&nbsp;murder and aggravated robbery, according to online jail records. He was being held on a $75,000 bond. He was expected to make a first court appearance Wednesday, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Around 2:00 a.m. Dec. 6, the Blackwell, Oklahoma Police Department contacted Sedgwick County Dispatch, reporting a shooting investigation involving two individuals who had entered a Blackwell hospital, with one of them sustaining a gunshot wound, according to Officer Andrew Ford.

Following discussions with the subjects, Blackwell Police shared information with Sedgwick County Dispatch. Consequently, the Wichita Police Department was alerted to respond to the Hydraulic and MacArthur area based on information suggesting that the shooting victim, 34-year-old Daniel McPherson, would be found there.

Upon arrival, officers discovered McPherson with a gunshot wound to his head. He&nbsp;was pronounced dead at the scene. Homicide investigators were dispatched to conduct the investigation and later traveled to Blackwell, Oklahoma where the two suspects 18-year-old Phillip Walls of Derby and Sawyer were in custody.&nbsp; 

On December 13, Walls was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail. Two days later he was charged with 1st degree murder and two counts of attempted aggravated robbery, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705504542151.png" alt="Sawyer-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Sawyer-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A teen accused in a deadly shooting has been moved from a jail in Oklahoma to KansasJust after noon Tuesday, deputies booked 19-year-old James Sawyer into the Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges of&nbsp;murder and aggravated robbery, according to online jail records. He was being held on a $75,000 bond. He was expected to make a first court appearance Wednesday, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Around 2:00 a.m. Dec. 6, the Blackwell, Oklahoma Police Department contacted Sedgwick County Dispatch, reporting a shooting investigation involving two individuals who had entered a Blackwell hospital, with one of them sustaining a gunshot wound, according to Officer Andrew Ford.Following discussions with the subjects, Blackwell Police shared information with Sedgwick County Dispatch. Consequently, the Wichita Police Department was alerted to respond to the Hydraulic and MacArthur area based on information suggesting that the shooting victim, 34-year-old Daniel McPherson, would be found there.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702588818825.png" alt="Walls-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Walls-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Upon arrival, officers discovered McPherson with a gunshot wound to his head. He&nbsp;was pronounced dead at the scene. Homicide investigators were dispatched to conduct the investigation and later traveled to Blackwell, Oklahoma where the two suspects 18-year-old Phillip Walls of Derby and Sawyer were in custody.&nbsp; On December 13, Walls was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail. Two days later he was charged with 1st degree murder and two counts of attempted aggravated robbery, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Homicide: Teen captured in Oklahoma is moved to Kansas jail

A performance featuring rock guitar and a classical string quartet will open a diverse three-concert series presented by the Salina Symphony in collaboration with Theatre Salian and the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts.

“Rock ‘n Roll Meets the String Quartet,” will feature guitarist and multi-instrumentalist Andrew Lipke, best known as the lead guitarist for the Led Zeppelin tribute band Get the Led Out. Lipke will collaborate with a string quartet of Salina Symphony musicians to perform an eclectic mix of rock and classical music ranging from Beethoven to The Beatles.

The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 20 at the Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe. Tickets start at $39.

The second featured concert, “American Patriots,” is a theatrical song cycle conceived by singer and arts activist Samantha Rose Williams, who recently was featured as guest soprano for the Salina Symphony’s March 2023 concert “All You Need is Love.”

Williams, performing with soprano Annie Sherman, bass/baritone Robert Wesley Mason and eight instrumentalists from the Salina Symphony, will explore what it means to be American from the perspectives of Black Americans, Indigenous Americans, New Americans and White Working Class Americans.

The show includes newly commissioned songs that reflect the diversity of the nation with elements of classical, jazz, rock, opera and Broadway.

“American Patriots” will be performed at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Jan. 27 in the Sunflower Financial Theatre at Theatre Salina, 303 E. Iron. Tickets are $35.

The third featured show, “The Harmony Games,” is a concert for children conceived and composed by Salina Symphony conductor and music director Yaniv Segal and narrated by Maggie Spicer Brown, education director at Theatre Salina.

The show tells the story of four families who, after fighting for as long as anyone can remember, come together through the power of music. Young concertgoers will be introduced to the instruments that comprise the orchestra while also learning how music and math are connected.

“The Harmony Games” will be presented at 4 p.m. Jan. 28 at the Stiefel Theatre. Beginning at 3 p.m., those attending are welcome to participate in children’s activities and an instrument “petting zoo.” Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children/students.

Segal not only composed “The Harmony Games,” but wrote songs and arranged the orchestral accompaniment for the “American Patriots” show and will play violin in the string quartet for the “Rock ‘n Roll Meets the String Quartet” concert.

“I get to wear all my hats for this,” he said. “It’s going to be an awesome experience.”

Segal said he was introduced to musician Andrew Lipke by Stiefel Theatre executive director Jane Gates, who has booked Get the Led Out concerts at the facility multiple times.

“Andrew was here doing educational workshops, and Jane thought we’d hit it off,” Segal said. “I wanted to increase the spectrum of the things we’re performing, so that’s how this collaboration came about.”

Segal said Lipke has developed and worked with chamber orchestras in Philadelphia that have highlighted the influence of classical music and how string quartets specifically have influenced rock music.

Lipke will play electric and acoustic guitar with a string quartet composed of Segal and Salina Symphony concertmaster Denise Blehm on violin, Melanie Mann on viola and Dena Berquist on cello. They will perform music by The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Radiohead, Neil Young and Bob Dylan, as well as classical selections by Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn and Philip Glass and original music by Lipke.

“Some things we’ll do on our own, and some things we’ll do with Andrew,” Segal said. “We’ll demonstrate how many similarities there are in the different genres and styles of classical and rock, from Haydn, considered the father of the string quartet, to The Beatles, who used a string quartet in songs like ‘Eleanor Rigby.’

“We’re hoping our selections will be both eye opening and ear opening.”

Samantha Rose Williams began writing “American Patriots” in 2020, during the coronavirus pandemic and protests surrounding the racial-based George Floyd murder.

“I was taking in all that was happening – the protests, the tanks in the street – looking at everybody there from the police to the military to protesters, who all believed they were there for patriotic reasons,” she said. “I thought about where our country was, how divided we were, and I started asking people about themselves and why they were there.”

Expanding the scope of her interviews, Williams spoke to 50 people from throughout the nation (“all done by Zoom, since I couldn’t go anywhere during the pandemic,” she said), which she then wove into 19 people representing four specific “identities”: Black Americans, Indigenous Americans, New Americans and White Working Class Americans.

“Many of these were people who don’t often get interviewed,” she said. “I asked them how they defined the American dream and if their family has been able to achieve it; how they defined a patriot and if they considered themselves one; and what they thought about the state of our country now.”

Williams transcribed the interviews and began turning them into “conversations in song,” working with five diverse composers who composed music that reflected the diversity of her subjects and their unique perspectives in a methodology she called “intentional storytelling."

“I collaborated with marginalized communities, allowing them to present themselves in ways that felt authentic to them,” Williams said. “I told them we wouldn’t use anything from their interviews unless

they approved it. If I used portions of their interview, I didn’t change anything they said. I wanted them to feel they were part of this.”

Williams created a system of checks and balances that ensured interviewees were paid for their time, approved the final song selections and decided on their own level of credit or anonymity in the project. She also made certain to recruit ethnically diverse composers to create music that accurately reflected the interviewees’ unique experiences as Americans.

The result, she said, “asks us to entertain perspectives other than (our) own and to practice the crucial skill of listening across difference.”

“As the actors traverse race, ethnicity, gender and class to embody 19 Americans in their exploration of fundamental questions of American identity, we ask (audiences) to enter with curiosity, hold your judgments lightly and, just for an hour or so, listen to understand,” Williams said. “I hope audiences will be able to see the humanity in someone who sees differently than them.”

Segal, who wrote songs and did orchestral arrangements for the show, said reactions to previous performances have been “incredible and thought provoking.”

“We hope we’ve created a space where people can listen and think without judging,” he said.

Segal wrote “The Harmony Games” as a commissioned piece to introduce young students to the instruments in a string orchestra in a fun and interactive way.

“I conceived of four families on an island, who have been fighting for a long, long time,” he said. “Each family has to complete a piece of music, based on a theme, using string instruments and doing different layers at different speeds. I’m trying to show that the orchestra can be very versatile.”

In the end, the winning family realizes how unproductive it is to continue fighting and decides to bring all the families together “to create an orchestra,” Segal said.

“I’m really happy how the piece captures the attention and imagination of children of all ages,” he said.

Additionally, the concert will feature music from Disney’s popular “Pirates of the Caribbean” movies, as well as pre-concert activities that include games and an interactive “petting zoo” of instruments of the orchestra.

“We intend this to be a real hands-on experience,” Segal said.

Tickets for “Rock ‘n Roll Meets the String Quartet” and “The Harmony Games” are available at the Stiefel Theatre box office or by calling (785) 827-1998. Tickets for “American Patriots” are available through the Salina Symphony office on the second floor of the Stiefel Theatre or by calling (785) 823-8309. Tickets for all shows will be available at the door. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.salinasymphony.org">www.salinasymphony.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705510325249.jpeg" alt="Yaniv Segal" />
 <figcaption>Yaniv Segal</figcaption>
 </figure>By GARY DEMUTH A performance featuring rock guitar and a classical string quartet will open a diverse three-concert series presented by the Salina Symphony in collaboration with Theatre Salian and the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts.“Rock ‘n Roll Meets the String Quartet,” will feature guitarist and multi-instrumentalist Andrew Lipke, best known as the lead guitarist for the Led Zeppelin tribute band Get the Led Out. Lipke will collaborate with a string quartet of Salina Symphony musicians to perform an eclectic mix of rock and classical music ranging from Beethoven to The Beatles.The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 20 at the Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe. Tickets start at $39.The second featured concert, “American Patriots,” is a theatrical song cycle conceived by singer and arts activist Samantha Rose Williams, who recently was featured as guest soprano for the Salina Symphony’s March 2023 concert “All You Need is Love.”Williams, performing with soprano Annie Sherman, bass/baritone Robert Wesley Mason and eight instrumentalists from the Salina Symphony, will explore what it means to be American from the perspectives of Black Americans, Indigenous Americans, New Americans and White Working Class Americans.The show includes newly commissioned songs that reflect the diversity of the nation with elements of classical, jazz, rock, opera and Broadway.“American Patriots” will be performed at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Jan. 27 in the Sunflower Financial Theatre at Theatre Salina, 303 E. Iron. Tickets are $35.The third featured show, “The Harmony Games,” is a concert for children conceived and composed by Salina Symphony conductor and music director Yaniv Segal and narrated by Maggie Spicer Brown, education director at Theatre Salina.The show tells the story of four families who, after fighting for as long as anyone can remember, come together through the power of music. Young concertgoers will be introduced to the instruments that comprise the orchestra while also learning how music and math are connected.“The Harmony Games” will be presented at 4 p.m. Jan. 28 at the Stiefel Theatre. Beginning at 3 p.m., those attending are welcome to participate in children’s activities and an instrument “petting zoo.” Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children/students.Segal not only composed “The Harmony Games,” but wrote songs and arranged the orchestral accompaniment for the “American Patriots” show and will play violin in the string quartet for the “Rock ‘n Roll Meets the String Quartet” concert.“I get to wear all my hats for this,” he said. “It’s going to be an awesome experience.”<h2>Rock and Strings</h2>Segal said he was introduced to musician Andrew Lipke by Stiefel Theatre executive director Jane Gates, who has booked Get the Led Out concerts at the facility multiple times.“Andrew was here doing educational workshops, and Jane thought we’d hit it off,” Segal said. “I wanted to increase the spectrum of the things we’re performing, so that’s how this collaboration came about.”Segal said Lipke has developed and worked with chamber orchestras in Philadelphia that have highlighted the influence of classical music and how string quartets specifically have influenced rock music.Lipke will play electric and acoustic guitar with a string quartet composed of Segal and Salina Symphony concertmaster Denise Blehm on violin, Melanie Mann on viola and Dena Berquist on cello. They will perform music by The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Radiohead, Neil Young and Bob Dylan, as well as classical selections by Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn and Philip Glass and original music by Lipke.“Some things we’ll do on our own, and some things we’ll do with Andrew,” Segal said. “We’ll demonstrate how many similarities there are in the different genres and styles of classical and rock, from Haydn, considered the father of the string quartet, to The Beatles, who used a string quartet in songs like ‘Eleanor Rigby.’“We’re hoping our selections will be both eye opening and ear opening.”<h2>American Patriots</h2>Samantha Rose Williams began writing “American Patriots” in 2020, during the coronavirus pandemic and protests surrounding the racial-based George Floyd murder.“I was taking in all that was happening – the protests, the tanks in the street – looking at everybody there from the police to the military to protesters, who all believed they were there for patriotic reasons,” she said. “I thought about where our country was, how divided we were, and I started asking people about themselves and why they were there.”Expanding the scope of her interviews, Williams spoke to 50 people from throughout the nation (“all done by Zoom, since I couldn’t go anywhere during the pandemic,” she said), which she then wove into 19 people representing four specific “identities”: Black Americans, Indigenous Americans, New Americans and White Working Class Americans.“Many of these were people who don’t often get interviewed,” she said. “I asked them how they defined the American dream and if their family has been able to achieve it; how they defined a patriot and if they considered themselves one; and what they thought about the state of our country now.”Williams transcribed the interviews and began turning them into “conversations in song,” working with five diverse composers who composed music that reflected the diversity of her subjects and their unique perspectives in a methodology she called “intentional storytelling."“I collaborated with marginalized communities, allowing them to present themselves in ways that felt authentic to them,” Williams said. “I told them we wouldn’t use anything from their interviews unlessthey approved it. If I used portions of their interview, I didn’t change anything they said. I wanted them to feel they were part of this.”Williams created a system of checks and balances that ensured interviewees were paid for their time, approved the final song selections and decided on their own level of credit or anonymity in the project. She also made certain to recruit ethnically diverse composers to create music that accurately reflected the interviewees’ unique experiences as Americans.The result, she said, “asks us to entertain perspectives other than (our) own and to practice the crucial skill of listening across difference.”“As the actors traverse race, ethnicity, gender and class to embody 19 Americans in their exploration of fundamental questions of American identity, we ask (audiences) to enter with curiosity, hold your judgments lightly and, just for an hour or so, listen to understand,” Williams said. “I hope audiences will be able to see the humanity in someone who sees differently than them.”Segal, who wrote songs and did orchestral arrangements for the show, said reactions to previous performances have been “incredible and thought provoking.”“We hope we’ve created a space where people can listen and think without judging,” he said.<h2>Harmony Games</h2>Segal wrote “The Harmony Games” as a commissioned piece to introduce young students to the instruments in a string orchestra in a fun and interactive way.“I conceived of four families on an island, who have been fighting for a long, long time,” he said. “Each family has to complete a piece of music, based on a theme, using string instruments and doing different layers at different speeds. I’m trying to show that the orchestra can be very versatile.”In the end, the winning family realizes how unproductive it is to continue fighting and decides to bring all the families together “to create an orchestra,” Segal said.“I’m really happy how the piece captures the attention and imagination of children of all ages,” he said.Additionally, the concert will feature music from Disney’s popular “Pirates of the Caribbean” movies, as well as pre-concert activities that include games and an interactive “petting zoo” of instruments of the orchestra.“We intend this to be a real hands-on experience,” Segal said.Tickets for “Rock ‘n Roll Meets the String Quartet” and “The Harmony Games” are available at the Stiefel Theatre box office or by calling (785) 827-1998. Tickets for “American Patriots” are available through the Salina Symphony office on the second floor of the Stiefel Theatre or by calling (785) 823-8309. Tickets for all shows will be available at the door. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.salinasymphony.org">www.salinasymphony.org</a>.

Segal to 'wear all hats' in Salina Symphony’s diverse three-concert Jan. series

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations after a traffic stop.

Just after 8:30 a.m. Monday, a sheriff's deputy stopped a vehicle near 126th and U.S. Highway 75 for a traffic violation, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.

&nbsp;The driver was identified as Jose Arturo Conejo, 50, of Kansas City, Kansas. 

 During the stop, a deputy observed drug paraphernalia in plain view.   Deputies discovered more drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine. 

 The driver was arrested and transported to the Jackson County Jail and booked into the Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while suspended.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705410391353.png" alt="Conejo-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Conejo-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations after a traffic stop.Just after 8:30 a.m. Monday, a sheriff's deputy stopped a vehicle near 126th and U.S. Highway 75 for a traffic violation, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.&nbsp;The driver was identified as Jose Arturo Conejo, 50, of Kansas City, Kansas. During the stop, a deputy observed drug paraphernalia in plain view. Deputies discovered more drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine. The driver was arrested and transported to the Jackson County Jail and booked into the Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while suspended.

Kan. deputy observes drug paraphernalia during traffic stop

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegaions following a traffic stop.

Just after 10:30p.m. Jan. 12, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 1979 Ford Mustang near 150th and Q.4 Road for a traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

The deputy observed what was believed to be drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle.&nbsp; A search of the vehicle was conducted, where methamphetamine, multiple items of drug paraphernalia, a hallucinogenic drug and open containers of alcohol were located.

The deputy arrested the driver 57-year-old Bruce Leroy Bowers of Harveyville and booked him into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of&nbsp;&nbsp;Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of a hallucinogenic drug,&nbsp;&nbsp;Possession of drug paraphernalia, Driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs, 3rd conviction,&nbsp;&nbsp;Transporting open container,&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating motor vehicle w/o license and Improper driving on laned roadway.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705325503118.png" alt="Bowers-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Bowers-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegaions following a traffic stop.Just after 10:30p.m. Jan. 12, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 1979 Ford Mustang near 150th and Q.4 Road for a traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.The deputy observed what was believed to be drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle.&nbsp; A search of the vehicle was conducted, where methamphetamine, multiple items of drug paraphernalia, a hallucinogenic drug and open containers of alcohol were located.The deputy arrested the driver 57-year-old Bruce Leroy Bowers of Harveyville and booked him into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of&nbsp;&nbsp;Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of a hallucinogenic drug,&nbsp;&nbsp;Possession of drug paraphernalia, Driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs, 3rd conviction,&nbsp;&nbsp;Transporting open container,&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating motor vehicle w/o license and Improper driving on laned roadway.

Sheriff: Kan. man transporting drugs accused of DUI again

On Jan. 15, 1929, civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. was born in Atlanta.

In 1559, England’s Queen Elizabeth I was crowned in Westminster Abbey.

In 1892, the original rules of basketball, devised by James Naismith, were published for the first time in Springfield, Massachusetts, where the game originated.

In 1919, in Boston, a tank containing an estimated 2.3 million gallons of molasses burst, sending the dark syrup coursing through the city’s North End, killing 21 people.

In 1943, work was completed on the Pentagon, headquarters of the U.S. Department of War (now Defense).

In 1967, the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League defeated the Kansas City Chiefs of the American Football League 35-10 in the first AFL-NFL World Championship Game, known retroactively as Super Bowl I.

In 1973, President Richard Nixon announced the suspension of all U.S. offensive action in North Vietnam, citing progress in peace negotiations.

In 1974, the sitcom “Happy Days” premiered on ABC-TV.

In 1978, two students at Florida State University in Tallahassee, Lisa Levy and Margaret Bowman, were slain in their sorority house. (Ted Bundy was later convicted of the crime and was sentenced to death. But he was executed for the rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl, which occurred 3 weeks after the sorority slayings.)

In 1981, the police drama series “Hill Street Blues” premiered on NBC.

In 1989, NATO, the Warsaw Pact and 12 other European countries adopted a human rights and security agreement in Vienna, Austria.

In 1993, a historic disarmament ceremony ended in Paris with the last of 125 countries signing a treaty banning chemical weapons.

In 2009, US Airways Capt. Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger put his Airbus 320 down in the Hudson River after a flock of birds disabled both engines; all 155 people aboard survived.

In 2018, singer Dolores O’Riordan of the Irish rock band The Cranberries died at a London hotel at the age of 46; a coroner found that she had accidentally drowned in a bathtub after drinking.

In 2019, Musical comedy star Carol Channing -- best known to Broadway audiences for her role in “Hello, Dolly!” — died in California at age 97.

In 2023, a plane making a 27-minute flight to a Nepal tourist town crashed into a gorge while attempting to land at a newly opened airport, killing all 72 people aboard.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705323537283.jpeg" alt="FILE - In this 1960 file photo, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. speaks in Atlanta. The estate of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. has reached an agreement with HarperCollins Publishers for rights to his archive. HarperCollins released King’s first book more than 60 years ago. The King Estate had been publishing books since 2009 with the Beacon Press. (AP Photo, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - In this 1960 file photo, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. speaks in Atlanta. The estate of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. has reached an agreement with HarperCollins Publishers for rights to his archive. HarperCollins released King’s first book more than 60 years ago. The King Estate had been publishing books since 2009 with the Beacon Press. (AP Photo, File)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Today’s Highlight in History:</h2>On Jan. 15, 1929, civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. was born in Atlanta.<h2>On this date:</h2>In 1559, England’s Queen Elizabeth I was crowned in Westminster Abbey.In 1892, the original rules of basketball, devised by James Naismith, were published for the first time in Springfield, Massachusetts, where the game originated.In 1919, in Boston, a tank containing an estimated 2.3 million gallons of molasses burst, sending the dark syrup coursing through the city’s North End, killing 21 people.In 1943, work was completed on the Pentagon, headquarters of the U.S. Department of War (now Defense).In 1967, the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League defeated the Kansas City Chiefs of the American Football League 35-10 in the first AFL-NFL World Championship Game, known retroactively as Super Bowl I.In 1973, President Richard Nixon announced the suspension of all U.S. offensive action in North Vietnam, citing progress in peace negotiations.In 1974, the sitcom “Happy Days” premiered on ABC-TV.In 1978, two students at Florida State University in Tallahassee, Lisa Levy and Margaret Bowman, were slain in their sorority house. (Ted Bundy was later convicted of the crime and was sentenced to death. But he was executed for the rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl, which occurred 3 weeks after the sorority slayings.)In 1981, the police drama series “Hill Street Blues” premiered on NBC.In 1989, NATO, the Warsaw Pact and 12 other European countries adopted a human rights and security agreement in Vienna, Austria.In 1993, a historic disarmament ceremony ended in Paris with the last of 125 countries signing a treaty banning chemical weapons.In 2009, US Airways Capt. Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger put his Airbus 320 down in the Hudson River after a flock of birds disabled both engines; all 155 people aboard survived.In 2018, singer Dolores O’Riordan of the Irish rock band The Cranberries died at a London hotel at the age of 46; a coroner found that she had accidentally drowned in a bathtub after drinking.In 2019, Musical comedy star Carol Channing -- best known to Broadway audiences for her role in “Hello, Dolly!” — died in California at age 97.In 2023, a plane making a 27-minute flight to a Nepal tourist town crashed into a gorge while attempting to land at a newly opened airport, killing all 72 people aboard.

Today in History, Jan. 15

Kansas&nbsp;Wesleyan’s Criminal Justice program continues to grow, as the university announced&nbsp;Friday&nbsp;that it has received a $90,000 grant to expand its law enforcement officer&nbsp;(LEO)&nbsp;certificate program.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program is the primary provider of federal criminal justice funding to states and units of local government. These funds are&nbsp;in addition to those&nbsp;announced in December&nbsp;from the Jack Wilson Charitable Trust, which&nbsp;will be used to open a crime lab and experiential learning center.&nbsp;

KWU’s Criminal Justice certificate program began in 2022,&nbsp;helped by grant funding and a partnership with Saline County. At the time, the program was specific to law enforcement officials working in Saline County. This announcement, however, opens the program to law enforcement officers statewide, who will be able to earn the certificate free of charge. In addition, the coursework will count toward the completion of a bachelor’s degree.&nbsp;

“We’re excited to expand this program,” said Professor&nbsp;David Lanning, who is overseeing the effort. “It provides a great opportunity for LEOs across the state to deepen their education at no cost, as books, fees and tuition are all paid for through this grant.”

Up to 50&nbsp;total&nbsp;spots are available in the program, which will be renamed the Jack Wilson Continuing Adult Education&nbsp;Program. Courses include Leadership for the Future, Culturally Informed, and Trauma Informed.&nbsp;

“Our Criminal Justice program is truly on the rise,” said Ken Oliver, executive vice president of advancement and university operations. “Offering a program like this statewide can make Kansas a better place to live, work and play, and we’re thrilled that&nbsp;so many share&nbsp;that vision.”

For more information&nbsp;on the certificate program, contact Lanning at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:david.lanning@kwu.edu">david.lanning@kwu.edu</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;785-577-8082. &nbsp;

For more information on Kansas Wesleyan University, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kwu.edu/news">www.kwu.edu/news</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016645030.jpeg" alt="Pioneer Hall at Kansas Wesleyan University during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Pioneer Hall at Kansas Wesleyan University during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedKansas&nbsp;Wesleyan’s Criminal Justice program continues to grow, as the university announced&nbsp;Friday&nbsp;that it has received a $90,000 grant to expand its law enforcement officer&nbsp;(LEO)&nbsp;certificate program.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program is the primary provider of federal criminal justice funding to states and units of local government. These funds are&nbsp;in addition to those&nbsp;announced in December&nbsp;from the Jack Wilson Charitable Trust, which&nbsp;will be used to open a crime lab and experiential learning center.&nbsp;KWU’s Criminal Justice certificate program began in 2022,&nbsp;helped by grant funding and a partnership with Saline County. At the time, the program was specific to law enforcement officials working in Saline County. This announcement, however, opens the program to law enforcement officers statewide, who will be able to earn the certificate free of charge. In addition, the coursework will count toward the completion of a bachelor’s degree.&nbsp;“We’re excited to expand this program,” said Professor&nbsp;David Lanning, who is overseeing the effort. “It provides a great opportunity for LEOs across the state to deepen their education at no cost, as books, fees and tuition are all paid for through this grant.”Up to 50&nbsp;total&nbsp;spots are available in the program, which will be renamed the Jack Wilson Continuing Adult Education&nbsp;Program. Courses include Leadership for the Future, Culturally Informed, and Trauma Informed.&nbsp;“Our Criminal Justice program is truly on the rise,” said Ken Oliver, executive vice president of advancement and university operations. “Offering a program like this statewide can make Kansas a better place to live, work and play, and we’re thrilled that&nbsp;so many share&nbsp;that vision.”For more information&nbsp;on the certificate program, contact Lanning at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:david.lanning@kwu.edu">david.lanning@kwu.edu</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;785-577-8082. &nbsp;For more information on Kansas Wesleyan University, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kwu.edu/news">www.kwu.edu/news</a>.

Grant Enables KWU to Expand Criminal Justice Certificate Program

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a late December homicide have released the name of the victim as 59-year-old Tammie L. Hanson of Topeka.

Just before 6p.m. Jan. 2, police were dispatched to a welfare check in the 600 Block of SW 14th Street in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.

Upon arrival, the Officers located Hanson who was found deceased. On Jan. 4, police reported they were&nbsp; investigating this death as a homicide and investigators believe the incident occurred sometime on December 28.

Police identified a suspect and arrested 22-year-old as Daniel V. Hesler of Topeka and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges: 1st Degree Murder and robbery, according to online jail records. He is no longer in custody in connection with the crime.

On Jan. 5, police reported their investigation led to a second arrest. Officers located 28-year-old Jordan R. Reynolds Taylor, 28, of Topeka and arrested him on requested charges of 1st Degree Murder and Aggravated Robbery, according to police Lt. Edward Stanley.&nbsp; Reynolds has been listed as a registered sex offender in Kansas since 2015 following a conviction for&nbsp;Aggravated indecent liberties w a 15-year-old victim, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704547559509.png" alt="Reynolds-Taylor-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Reynolds-Taylor-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a late December homicide have released the name of the victim as 59-year-old Tammie L. Hanson of Topeka.Just before 6p.m. Jan. 2, police were dispatched to a welfare check in the 600 Block of SW 14th Street in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.Upon arrival, the Officers located Hanson who was found deceased. On Jan. 4, police reported they were&nbsp; investigating this death as a homicide and investigators believe the incident occurred sometime on December 28.Police identified a suspect and arrested 22-year-old as Daniel V. Hesler of Topeka and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges: 1st Degree Murder and robbery, according to online jail records. He is no longer in custody in connection with the crime.On Jan. 5, police reported their investigation led to a second arrest. Officers located 28-year-old Jordan R. Reynolds Taylor, 28, of Topeka and arrested him on requested charges of 1st Degree Murder and Aggravated Robbery, according to police Lt. Edward Stanley.&nbsp; Reynolds has been listed as a registered sex offender in Kansas since 2015 following a conviction for&nbsp;Aggravated indecent liberties w a 15-year-old victim, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Homicide: Police ID Kan. woman who died; sex offender in custody

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail.

All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law

NAME:&nbsp;Abrams,Crystal Lyn REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Allen,Torrie Lynn REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500

NAME:&nbsp;Hurt,Paul Michael REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation, Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500, Theft by deception;Value less than $1,500, Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

NAME:&nbsp;Kearn,Colby Lee REQUESTED CHARGE(S):Probation Violation, Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Reynard,Matthew Charles REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:Salsman,Raymond Daniel REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact

NAME:&nbsp;Saunders,Kellen Joseph REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Simmons,Jaya Marie REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Outside warrant/NCIC hit

NAME:&nbsp;Standfield,Savonne Amber REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation, Failure to appear

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail.All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705072785820.jpeg" alt="Abrams,Crystal Lyn" />
 <figcaption>Abrams,Crystal Lyn</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Abrams,Crystal Lyn REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705072940107.jpeg" alt="Allen,Torrie Lynn" />
 <figcaption>Allen,Torrie Lynn</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Allen,Torrie Lynn REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705073803028.png" alt="Hurt,Paul Michael" />
 <figcaption>Hurt,Paul Michael</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Hurt,Paul Michael REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation, Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500, Theft by deception;Value less than $1,500, Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705073848968.jpeg" alt="Kearn,Colby Lee" />
 <figcaption>Kearn,Colby Lee</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Kearn,Colby Lee REQUESTED CHARGE(S):Probation Violation, Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705073863246.jpeg" alt="Reynard,Matthew Charles" />
 <figcaption>Reynard,Matthew Charles</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Reynard,Matthew Charles REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705073885065.jpeg" alt="Salsman,Raymond Daniel" />
 <figcaption>Salsman,Raymond Daniel</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:Salsman,Raymond Daniel REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705073978311.jpeg" alt="Saunders,Kellen Joseph" />
 <figcaption>Saunders,Kellen Joseph</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Saunders,Kellen Joseph REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705073996435.jpeg" alt="Simmons,Jaya Marie" />
 <figcaption>Simmons,Jaya Marie</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Simmons,Jaya Marie REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705074050685.jpeg" alt="Standfield,Savonne Amber" />
 <figcaption>Standfield,Savonne Amber</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Standfield,Savonne Amber REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation, Failure to appear

Saline County Arrests, Jan. 12

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an altercation on the KU campus.

Around 2:30p.m. Wednesday, police were called to the area of Missouri Street and Fambrough Drive after a man identified as a Lawrence resident, allegedly engaged in a confrontation with workers at the University of Kansas football facility construction site, according to a media release from police. The man also attempted to stab at least one person.

The 41-year-old man brandished a knife and threatened multiple people in the area. The man initially refused to comply with responding officers’ commands, and only submitted to arrest after being threatened with less-lethal devices. 

The man was safely arrested and transported to the Douglas County Correctional Facility and booked in on suspicion of multiple counts of Aggravated Assault. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident.

  The University of Kansas Police Department assisted LKPD with the investigation.&nbsp; Police did not release the suspect's name.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704997725441.png" alt="Camera view image of the construction site on Thursday." />
 <figcaption>Camera view image of the construction site on Thursday.</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an altercation on the KU campus.Around 2:30p.m. Wednesday, police were called to the area of Missouri Street and Fambrough Drive after a man identified as a Lawrence resident, allegedly engaged in a confrontation with workers at the University of Kansas football facility construction site, according to a media release from police. The man also attempted to stab at least one person.The 41-year-old man brandished a knife and threatened multiple people in the area. The man initially refused to comply with responding officers’ commands, and only submitted to arrest after being threatened with less-lethal devices. The man was safely arrested and transported to the Douglas County Correctional Facility and booked in on suspicion of multiple counts of Aggravated Assault. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident. The University of Kansas Police Department assisted LKPD with the investigation.&nbsp; Police did not release the suspect's name.

Police: Man threatened workers at KU stadium construction site with a knife

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Six-time NFL champion Bill Belichick agreed to part ways as the coach of the New England Patriots on Thursday, bringing an end to his 24-year tenure as the architect of the most decorated dynasty of the league’s Super Bowl era, a person with knowledge of the situation told The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because it has not yet been announced.

ESPN first reported the decision. A news conference is planned for later in the day in which team owner Robert Kraft and Belichick will address the decision.

Belichick, 71, became just the third coach in NFL history to reach 300 career regular-season wins earlier this season, joining Hall of Famers Don Shula and George Halas. With 333 wins including the playoffs, Belichick trails only Shula (347 wins) for the record for victories by a coach.

But the Patriots ended this season 4-13, Belichick’s worst record in 29 seasons as an NFL head coach. It supplanted the 5-11 mark he managed in his last year in Cleveland in 1995 and again in his first year in New England in 2000. Including the playoffs, he ends his Patriots tenure with a 333-178 overall record.

With his cutoff hoodies and ever-present scowl, Belichick teamed with quarterback Tom Brady to lead the Patriots to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bill-belichick-patriots-timeline-4ad0ba74c6d6dec089e6791a86e2ef7e">six Super Bowl victories,</a>&nbsp;nine AFC titles and 17 division championships in 19 years. During a less successful — but also tumultuous — stint with the original Cleveland Browns, Belichick earned 37 of his career victories.

It’s not immediately clear who Kraft will tap to replace the future Hall of Famer.

Patriots linebackers coach Jerod Mayo won a Super Bowl ring playing under Belichick and has interviewed for multiple head coaching vacancies since becoming a New England assistant in 2019. Mayo turned down a few interviews last offseason before signing a contract extension to remain with the Patriots.

Mike Vrabel, who was fired earlier this week by the Tennessee Titans and won three Super Bowls with the Patriots, is also expected to be a candidate for the head coaching job.

Belichick had been grooming offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels to replace him before McDaniels left following the 2021 season to become the coach of the Raiders. He has since been fired by Las Vegas. Belichick’s two sons, Steve and Brian, are also on the coaching staff.

Belichick's exit from the Patriots comes just a day after another legendary coach and his longtime friend Nick Saban&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alabama-nick-saban-retires-crimson-tide-ebb46230ca171dd6f310ff76e403fd23">announced he'd retire</a>&nbsp;after winning seven national championships at the collegiate level. Saban worked for Belichick's father, Steve, in the 1980s as a coach at Navy. Bill Belichick went on to hire Saban as his defensive coordinator when he became Cleveland's head coach in 1991.

The six Super Bowl wins&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bill-belichick-patriots-e2373d1d24b363c4334326e46378f1b6">tie Belichick with pre-merger mentors</a>&nbsp;Halas and Curly Lambeau for the most NFL championships. Belichick also won two rings as Bill Parcells’ defensive coordinator with the New York Giants.

But the Patriots have stumbled to a 29-38 record since Brady departed following the 2019 season and missed the playoffs in three of those four seasons. Beginning in 2001 when Brady became the starting quarterback, the Patriots missed the playoffs only once (2008) when Brady was injured. This marked New England’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/patriots-future-bill-belichick-1045dbb1579baaa79fdaabb06c8513a6">fifth consecutive season</a>&nbsp;without a playoff victory.

Belichick’s subsequent solutions at quarterback haven’t panned out.

Brady’s initial replacement, Cam Newton, didn’t resemble the player who won the 2015 MVP award and was cut after a 7-9 finish in 2020. Meanwhile Brady won his seventh Super Bowl ring with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers that same season.

Potential long-term replacement Mac Jones, a 2021 first-round draft choice, was a Pro Bowl selection as a rookie and led New England to the playoffs. But he regressed in Year 2 when Belichick put longtime defensive assistant Matt Patricia in charge of the offense. Jones didn’t fare much better this season when Bill O’Brien returned as offensive coordinator. He was benched four times before being replaced as starter by backup Bailey Zappe for the final six games.

That left the Patriots looking at a lengthy rebuild, with no candidate on the roster to bring stability to the sport’s most important position.

Belichick, who also served as the de facto general manager with final say on personnel decisions, was celebrated for his ingenuity managing the salary cap during the run of Super Bowl success. It included getting stars like Brady and others to accept cap-friendly contracts or adjust their deals to accommodate the signing of other players.

But that acclaim has waned in the years since Brady left, as a run of draft picks and high-priced free agents didn’t live up to expectations. In addition, Belichick has seen several members of his personnel and scouting departments leave for other jobs. The list includes his former player personnel director, Nick Caserio, who was hired as Houston’s general manager in 2021.

Now it won’t be Belichick making the decisions for the Patriots on or off the field.

The only child of a World War II veteran who spent three decades as a Navy assistant coach, Belichick is a football historian with an encyclopedic knowledge of strategy from the sport’s early days to current NFL trends. His players said his attention to detail never left them unprepared.

Belichick has been a master of the NFL rule book, unearthing loopholes in clock operations and offensive line formations that -- though entirely legal -- cemented his reputation as a mad genius.

But his legacy in New England also includes two major cheating investigations — and other, minor ones — that cost him and the team draft picks and more than $1 million in fines. Opponents accused the Patriots of everything from hacking their headsets to cutting corners on injury reports.

His friendship with former President Donald Trump, which Belichick insisted was not political, landed the coach on the list to receive a Presidential Medal of Freedom in the waning days of the administration. After the outcry against the U.S. Capitol siege, Belichick announced “the decision has been made not to move forward.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704979566158.png" alt="Bill Belichick&nbsp; -image courtesy New England Patriots" />
 <figcaption>Bill Belichick&nbsp; -image courtesy New England Patriots</figcaption>
 </figure>FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Six-time NFL champion Bill Belichick agreed to part ways as the coach of the New England Patriots on Thursday, bringing an end to his 24-year tenure as the architect of the most decorated dynasty of the league’s Super Bowl era, a person with knowledge of the situation told The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because it has not yet been announced.ESPN first reported the decision. A news conference is planned for later in the day in which team owner Robert Kraft and Belichick will address the decision.Belichick, 71, became just the third coach in NFL history to reach 300 career regular-season wins earlier this season, joining Hall of Famers Don Shula and George Halas. With 333 wins including the playoffs, Belichick trails only Shula (347 wins) for the record for victories by a coach.But the Patriots ended this season 4-13, Belichick’s worst record in 29 seasons as an NFL head coach. It supplanted the 5-11 mark he managed in his last year in Cleveland in 1995 and again in his first year in New England in 2000. Including the playoffs, he ends his Patriots tenure with a 333-178 overall record.With his cutoff hoodies and ever-present scowl, Belichick teamed with quarterback Tom Brady to lead the Patriots to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bill-belichick-patriots-timeline-4ad0ba74c6d6dec089e6791a86e2ef7e">six Super Bowl victories,</a>&nbsp;nine AFC titles and 17 division championships in 19 years. During a less successful — but also tumultuous — stint with the original Cleveland Browns, Belichick earned 37 of his career victories.It’s not immediately clear who Kraft will tap to replace the future Hall of Famer.Patriots linebackers coach Jerod Mayo won a Super Bowl ring playing under Belichick and has interviewed for multiple head coaching vacancies since becoming a New England assistant in 2019. Mayo turned down a few interviews last offseason before signing a contract extension to remain with the Patriots.Mike Vrabel, who was fired earlier this week by the Tennessee Titans and won three Super Bowls with the Patriots, is also expected to be a candidate for the head coaching job.Belichick had been grooming offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels to replace him before McDaniels left following the 2021 season to become the coach of the Raiders. He has since been fired by Las Vegas. Belichick’s two sons, Steve and Brian, are also on the coaching staff.Belichick's exit from the Patriots comes just a day after another legendary coach and his longtime friend Nick Saban&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alabama-nick-saban-retires-crimson-tide-ebb46230ca171dd6f310ff76e403fd23">announced he'd retire</a>&nbsp;after winning seven national championships at the collegiate level. Saban worked for Belichick's father, Steve, in the 1980s as a coach at Navy. Bill Belichick went on to hire Saban as his defensive coordinator when he became Cleveland's head coach in 1991.The six Super Bowl wins&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bill-belichick-patriots-e2373d1d24b363c4334326e46378f1b6">tie Belichick with pre-merger mentors</a>&nbsp;Halas and Curly Lambeau for the most NFL championships. Belichick also won two rings as Bill Parcells’ defensive coordinator with the New York Giants.But the Patriots have stumbled to a 29-38 record since Brady departed following the 2019 season and missed the playoffs in three of those four seasons. Beginning in 2001 when Brady became the starting quarterback, the Patriots missed the playoffs only once (2008) when Brady was injured. This marked New England’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/patriots-future-bill-belichick-1045dbb1579baaa79fdaabb06c8513a6">fifth consecutive season</a>&nbsp;without a playoff victory.Belichick’s subsequent solutions at quarterback haven’t panned out.Brady’s initial replacement, Cam Newton, didn’t resemble the player who won the 2015 MVP award and was cut after a 7-9 finish in 2020. Meanwhile Brady won his seventh Super Bowl ring with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers that same season.Potential long-term replacement Mac Jones, a 2021 first-round draft choice, was a Pro Bowl selection as a rookie and led New England to the playoffs. But he regressed in Year 2 when Belichick put longtime defensive assistant Matt Patricia in charge of the offense. Jones didn’t fare much better this season when Bill O’Brien returned as offensive coordinator. He was benched four times before being replaced as starter by backup Bailey Zappe for the final six games.That left the Patriots looking at a lengthy rebuild, with no candidate on the roster to bring stability to the sport’s most important position.Belichick, who also served as the de facto general manager with final say on personnel decisions, was celebrated for his ingenuity managing the salary cap during the run of Super Bowl success. It included getting stars like Brady and others to accept cap-friendly contracts or adjust their deals to accommodate the signing of other players.But that acclaim has waned in the years since Brady left, as a run of draft picks and high-priced free agents didn’t live up to expectations. In addition, Belichick has seen several members of his personnel and scouting departments leave for other jobs. The list includes his former player personnel director, Nick Caserio, who was hired as Houston’s general manager in 2021.Now it won’t be Belichick making the decisions for the Patriots on or off the field.The only child of a World War II veteran who spent three decades as a Navy assistant coach, Belichick is a football historian with an encyclopedic knowledge of strategy from the sport’s early days to current NFL trends. His players said his attention to detail never left them unprepared.Belichick has been a master of the NFL rule book, unearthing loopholes in clock operations and offensive line formations that -- though entirely legal -- cemented his reputation as a mad genius.But his legacy in New England also includes two major cheating investigations — and other, minor ones — that cost him and the team draft picks and more than $1 million in fines. Opponents accused the Patriots of everything from hacking their headsets to cutting corners on injury reports.His friendship with former President Donald Trump, which Belichick insisted was not political, landed the coach on the list to receive a Presidential Medal of Freedom in the waning days of the administration. After the outcry against the U.S. Capitol siege, Belichick announced “the decision has been made not to move forward.”

Patriots parting with Bill Belichick, who led team to 6 Super Bowl championships

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after a traffic stop.

Shortly before 2a.m. Jan. 8, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a black Lincoln MKX with no license plate near NW Grant Street and NW Logan Street, according to Shawnee County Sheriff's Lt. Scott Wanamaker.

 After the Lincoln came to a stop, the driver exited the vehicle and ran.

After a foot pursuit, the driver was taken into custody near NW St. John Street and NW Logan Street. During the investigation, “dirty 30” pills, methamphetamine, and a handgun were located.

Bryan S. Wurtz Jr., 29, of Topeka, was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of felony interference, criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, possession of opiates with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, operate a&nbsp;vehicle without registration and operate a vehicle with no insurance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704752829478.png" alt="Wurtz-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Wurtz-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after a traffic stop.Shortly before 2a.m. Jan. 8, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a black Lincoln MKX with no license plate near NW Grant Street and NW Logan Street, according to Shawnee County Sheriff's Lt. Scott Wanamaker. After the Lincoln came to a stop, the driver exited the vehicle and ran.After a foot pursuit, the driver was taken into custody near NW St. John Street and NW Logan Street. During the investigation, “dirty 30” pills, methamphetamine, and a handgun were located.Bryan S. Wurtz Jr., 29, of Topeka, was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of felony interference, criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, possession of opiates with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, operate a&nbsp;vehicle without registration and operate a vehicle with no insurance.

Kan. felon accused of selling 'dirty 30' pills ran from traffic stop

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22DAVID%20KOENIG%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By DAVID KOENIG AP Airlines Writer</a>

Alaska Airlines is canceling through Saturday all flights on Boeing 737 Max 9 planes like the one that suffered an in-flight blowout of a fuselage panel last week as it waits for new instructions from Boeing and federal officials on how to inspect the fleet.

The development came as signs indicate some travelers might try to avoid flying on Max 9 jetliners — at least temporarily.

Seattle-based Alaska Airlines said Wednesday that it would cancel 110 to 150 flights a day while the Max 9 planes remain grounded. By midday, Alaska had canceled about 120 flights — one-fifth of its schedule for the day.

“We hope this action provides guests with a little more certainty, and we are working around the clock to reaccommodate impacted guests on other flights,” the airline said on its website.

United Airlines, the only other U.S. carrier that operates the Max 9, had canceled about 200 flights, but it was not clear how many were related to the Boeing plane.

The Federal Aviation Administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alaska-airlines-portland-oregon-emergency-landing-b522e36ff228b5ea9a89ea13ee24f597">grounded all Max 9s</a>&nbsp;in the United States on Saturday, the day after a panel called a door plug&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alaska-airlines-portland-oregon-emergency-landing-0a0378cf2ca6d5567e18d4cda74a0978">blew off an Alaska Airlines jet</a>&nbsp;over Oregon, leaving a hole in the side of the plane. The plug replaces extra doors that are used on Max 9s that are outfitted with more seats than Alaska uses.

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22DAVID%20KOENIG%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By DAVID KOENIG AP Airlines Writer</a>Alaska Airlines is canceling through Saturday all flights on Boeing 737 Max 9 planes like the one that suffered an in-flight blowout of a fuselage panel last week as it waits for new instructions from Boeing and federal officials on how to inspect the fleet.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">For the very latest, including information on the systemwide travel waiver currently in place, visit: <a href="https://t.co/EWhHuhqMtG">https://t.co/EWhHuhqMtG</a> <a href="https://t.co/DztwoSLXPK">pic.twitter.com/DztwoSLXPK</a>&mdash; Alaska Airlines (@AlaskaAir) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlaskaAir/status/1744864134708027762?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The development came as signs indicate some travelers might try to avoid flying on Max 9 jetliners — at least temporarily.Seattle-based Alaska Airlines said Wednesday that it would cancel 110 to 150 flights a day while the Max 9 planes remain grounded. By midday, Alaska had canceled about 120 flights — one-fifth of its schedule for the day.“We hope this action provides guests with a little more certainty, and we are working around the clock to reaccommodate impacted guests on other flights,” the airline said on its website.United Airlines, the only other U.S. carrier that operates the Max 9, had canceled about 200 flights, but it was not clear how many were related to the Boeing plane.The Federal Aviation Administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alaska-airlines-portland-oregon-emergency-landing-b522e36ff228b5ea9a89ea13ee24f597">grounded all Max 9s</a>&nbsp;in the United States on Saturday, the day after a panel called a door plug&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alaska-airlines-portland-oregon-emergency-landing-0a0378cf2ca6d5567e18d4cda74a0978">blew off an Alaska Airlines jet</a>&nbsp;over Oregon, leaving a hole in the side of the plane. The plug replaces extra doors that are used on Max 9s that are outfitted with more seats than Alaska uses.The pilots of flight 1282 were able to return to Portland, Oregon, and make a safe emergency landing. No serious injuries were reported.The FAA approved inspection and repair guidelines developed by Boeing on Monday. However, on Tuesday the agency ordered Boeing to revise the instructions based on “feedback received in response.”Alaska and United both reported finding&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boeing-investigation-ntsb-safety-airplanes-d9e28fe1a11dafe4f639268504bdb85f">loose bolts and other problems</a>&nbsp;in the panel doors of an unspecified number of other Max 9s that they had begun to inspect.A Boeing spokesman said Wednesday that the company is updating inspection procedures based on “feedback and requirements” from FAA and the airlines. The FAA repeated an earlier statement in which it said safety would determine how soon the planes return to service.The door plugs are installed by Boeing supplier Spirit AeroSystems, but investigators have not said which company's employees last worked on the plug on the ill-fated Alaska plane.Earlier this week, Boeing CEO David Calhoun told employees at the 737 factory in Renton, Washington, that the company was “acknowledging our mistake ... and that this event can never happen again.”Boeing, which is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, didn't allow reporters to attend the event, but it released a four-minute clip in which Calhoun stressed safety and said that Boeing's airline customers are watching the company's response to the current crisis.“Moments like this shake them to the bone, just like it shook me to the bone,” he said, adding that Boeing must reassure airlines that the planes are safe.“We will see our way through to that, but we need to know that we are starting from a very anxious moment for our customers,” he told the Boeing employees.Some travelers are watching the unfolding investigation too.Kayak, a travel-search site owned by Booking Holdings, said Wednesday that after the blowout on the Alaska flight, it saw a three-fold jump in the number of people filtering their searches to isolate the type of aircraft. The jump — from low numbers, a Kayak spokeswoman acknowledged — led the site to make its airplane-type filter easier to find.“Anytime an aircraft model becomes a household name, something has gone wrong,” said Scott Keyes, founder of the travel site Going. “A heck of a lot more people are checking their aircraft this week than last week.”But once the FAA clears the planes to fly — “and assuming no other incidents” — the public's memory will fade, Keyes said. Within six months, few people will be paying attention to the aircraft type when booking a flight, he predicted.The Max — of which there are two models flying, the 8 and larger 9, and two more in development — is the latest version of Boeing's half-century-old 737. Two Max 8 jets crashed in 2018 and 2019, killing 346 people, and the plane&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boeing-alaska-airlines-emergency-door-plug-1ef6d34c42fb22935c03a9cea46dd814">has been dogged</a>&nbsp;by manufacturing quality problems since then.