BEAVER COUNTY, Oklahoma—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man who is on the faculty at a community college in Kansas for alleged child sex crimes.

On December 13, the Beaver County Sheriff’s Office requested the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to assist with a sexual assault investigation involving a child, according to a meida release.

Special agents with the OSBI interviewed the child, who reported being sexually abused. Evidence was collected and the suspect, 48-year-old Andrew Nyles Lackey, was interviewed. Lackey is listed as a welding instructor at Seward County Community College, <a href="https://sccc.edu/static/web/academic/academic-divisions/industrial-technology/welding-technology/faculty.html">according to the school's web site.</a>

Based on the information obtained during the investigation, officers arrested Lackey and booked him into the Beaver County Jail on a requested charge of Child Sexual Abuse.

The school suspended Lackey without pay following the arrest, according to a media release. He is also prohibited from campus and college activities.

“These charges are a serious concern, and we have taken this step in accordance with that,” stated SCCC President Brad Bennett in the release.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703105203089.png" alt="Lackey-photo OSBI" />
 <figcaption>Lackey-photo OSBI</figcaption>
 </figure>BEAVER COUNTY, Oklahoma—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man who is on the faculty at a community college in Kansas for alleged child sex crimes.On December 13, the Beaver County Sheriff’s Office requested the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to assist with a sexual assault investigation involving a child, according to a meida release.Special agents with the OSBI interviewed the child, who reported being sexually abused. Evidence was collected and the suspect, 48-year-old Andrew Nyles Lackey, was interviewed. Lackey is listed as a welding instructor at Seward County Community College, <a href="https://sccc.edu/static/web/academic/academic-divisions/industrial-technology/welding-technology/faculty.html">according to the school's web site.</a>Based on the information obtained during the investigation, officers arrested Lackey and booked him into the Beaver County Jail on a requested charge of Child Sexual Abuse.The school suspended Lackey without pay following the arrest, according to a media release. He is also prohibited from campus and college activities.“These charges are a serious concern, and we have taken this step in accordance with that,” stated SCCC President Brad Bennett in the release.

Kan. community college instructor suspended after arrest

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.&nbsp;

On Dec. 18, the Shawnee County Sheriff's Office's Criminal Investigations Division conducted an investigation into child sex crimes. and arrested Craig H. Miller, 39, of Topeka, according to Sheriff Brian Hill.

Miller was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges that include electronic solicitation of a child, promote obscenity to minors, attempted sexual exploitation of a child, and attempted criminal sodomy with a child

On October 19, deputies arrested&nbsp; Miller and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of attempted electronic solicitation of a child, attempted indecent liberties with a child, attempted aggravated criminal sodomy, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702939790946.png" alt="Miller photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Miller photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.&nbsp;On Dec. 18, the Shawnee County Sheriff's Office's Criminal Investigations Division conducted an investigation into child sex crimes. and arrested Craig H. Miller, 39, of Topeka, according to Sheriff Brian Hill.Miller was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges that include electronic solicitation of a child, promote obscenity to minors, attempted sexual exploitation of a child, and attempted criminal sodomy with a childOn October 19, deputies arrested&nbsp; Miller and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of attempted electronic solicitation of a child, attempted indecent liberties with a child, attempted aggravated criminal sodomy, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Kan. man jailed 2nd time in 60-days for alleged child sex crimes

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a car crash and follow up investigation.

Just before 1p.m.&nbsp; Monday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a report of a single vehicle rollover injury auto accident in the 5000 block SW 61st Street in Topeka, according to Sheriff's Lt. Scott Wanamaker.

 Deputies arrived to find that three of the four adult occupants of the vehicle were injured from the accident. Two of the occupants sustained non-life threatening injuries and one sustained life threatening injuries. American Medical response transported all three of the injured occupants to local hospitals.

The vehicle, a 1999 Honda Civic, was found to be reported stolen through the Topeka Police Department. The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office and the Topeka Police Department are working together on the investigation of this stolen vehicle.

The driver William Sharon, 23, of Topeka was treated at a local hospital for his injuries and then booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of aggravated battery, reckless driving, interference with law enforcement, registration not assigned, no insurance, operate a vehicle without being licensed, improper driving on laned roadway, and unsafe speed for prevailing conditions.&nbsp; Additional requested charges are expected.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703041928867.png" alt="Sharon-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Sharon-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a car crash and follow up investigation.Just before 1p.m.&nbsp; Monday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a report of a single vehicle rollover injury auto accident in the 5000 block SW 61st Street in Topeka, according to Sheriff's Lt. Scott Wanamaker. Deputies arrived to find that three of the four adult occupants of the vehicle were injured from the accident. Two of the occupants sustained non-life threatening injuries and one sustained life threatening injuries. American Medical response transported all three of the injured occupants to local hospitals.The vehicle, a 1999 Honda Civic, was found to be reported stolen through the Topeka Police Department. The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office and the Topeka Police Department are working together on the investigation of this stolen vehicle.The driver William Sharon, 23, of Topeka was treated at a local hospital for his injuries and then booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of aggravated battery, reckless driving, interference with law enforcement, registration not assigned, no insurance, operate a vehicle without being licensed, improper driving on laned roadway, and unsafe speed for prevailing conditions.&nbsp; Additional requested charges are expected.

Kansas man driving stolen car moved from hospital to jail

SHAWNEE COUNTY – The City of Topeka announced Tuesday that it is parting ways with Chief Financial Officer Freddy Mawyin, according to a media release from the city.

Mawyin had been on administrative leave since December 11, following his arrest on a requested charge of domestic battery.

Just before 10 p.m. on Dec. 10, police were called to a home in the 4400 block of SW Lincolnshire Road for a&nbsp; report of a past domestic dispute that occurred Dec. 9, according to a media release.

Throughout the course of the investigation, police determined Mawyin was the suspect. He was arrested and booked into the Shawnee Co. Dept. of Corrections on a requested charges of domestic battery.

Rachelle Mathews has been named Acting Finance Director and will serve in the role until further notice. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703025008801.png" alt="Mawyin-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Mawyin-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY – The City of Topeka announced Tuesday that it is parting ways with Chief Financial Officer Freddy Mawyin, according to a media release from the city.Mawyin had been on administrative leave since December 11, following his arrest on a requested charge of domestic battery.Just before 10 p.m. on Dec. 10, police were called to a home in the 4400 block of SW Lincolnshire Road for a&nbsp; report of a past domestic dispute that occurred Dec. 9, according to a media release.Throughout the course of the investigation, police determined Mawyin was the suspect. He was arrested and booked into the Shawnee Co. Dept. of Corrections on a requested charges of domestic battery.Rachelle Mathews has been named Acting Finance Director and will serve in the role until further notice.

City of Topeka fires Chief Financial Officer after his arrest

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a retail crime and have made and arrest and recovered hundreds of dollars in merchandise.

The holiday hustle was in full swing Monday afternoon during the Wichita Police Department Mounted Unit's routine Holiday Patrol at the local businesses on N. Greenwich Road, according to a social media report.

A retailer waved officers down about a shoplifting incident involving items taken from Cabelas.

Officers took charge, gathering information and quickly locating the suspect and their vehicle in the vicinity. They recovered all the stolen merchandise, totaling close to $1600.

Sumner County Sheriff Deputy Wylie and Sgt Thomas of Caldwell Police assisted the Wichita Mounted Police to apprehend the shop lifter.

Police booked the suspect on requested charges that include two misdemeanor theft cases.&nbsp;

"This swift action not only protects the community but also supports the local businesses during this busy holiday period." 

"Kudos to the Wichita Police Deparatment Mounted Unit for their efficiency and dedication to ensuring a safer holiday shopping experience for everyone."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703007164553.png" alt="Photos Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Photos Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a retail crime and have made and arrest and recovered hundreds of dollars in merchandise.The holiday hustle was in full swing Monday afternoon during the Wichita Police Department Mounted Unit's routine Holiday Patrol at the local businesses on N. Greenwich Road, according to a social media report.A retailer waved officers down about a shoplifting incident involving items taken from Cabelas.Officers took charge, gathering information and quickly locating the suspect and their vehicle in the vicinity. They recovered all the stolen merchandise, totaling close to $1600.Sumner County Sheriff Deputy Wylie and Sgt Thomas of Caldwell Police assisted the Wichita Mounted Police to apprehend the shop lifter.Police booked the suspect on requested charges that include two misdemeanor theft cases.&nbsp;"This swift action not only protects the community but also supports the local businesses during this busy holiday period." "Kudos to the Wichita Police Deparatment Mounted Unit for their efficiency and dedication to ensuring a safer holiday shopping experience for everyone."

Kan. police mounted patrol finds shoplifter with $1,600 in merchandise

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;Cook,Brenton Shea REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Return for court testimony

NAME:&nbsp;Einfeldt,Kyle Owen REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME: Eldringhoff,Isaac James REQUESTED CHARGE(S):

NAME:&nbsp;Everett,Victor REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation

NAME:Lopez-Moncada,Cristofer J REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear

NAME: Peterson,Michelle Lynn REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation,&nbsp;Failure to appear,&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

NAME:Plumb,Michael Lee REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear

NAME: Thomas,Monzye Armon REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Villefranc,Allysa Nicole REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation, Driving While Suspended, Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Wood,Andrew Joseph REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance

NAME:&nbsp;Wright,Dennis Lamar Maurice REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County JailAll persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702995617215.jpeg" alt="Cook,Brenton Shea" />
 <figcaption>Cook,Brenton Shea</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Cook,Brenton Shea REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Return for court testimony<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702995740390.jpeg" alt="Einfeldt,Kyle Owen" />
 <figcaption>Einfeldt,Kyle Owen</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Einfeldt,Kyle Owen REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702995786734.jpeg" alt="Eldringhoff,Isaac James" />
 <figcaption>Eldringhoff,Isaac James</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Eldringhoff,Isaac James REQUESTED CHARGE(S):<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702995844993.jpeg" alt="Everett,Victor" />
 <figcaption>Everett,Victor</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Everett,Victor REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702995857166.jpeg" alt="Lopez-Moncada,Cristofer J" />
 <figcaption>Lopez-Moncada,Cristofer J</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:Lopez-Moncada,Cristofer J REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702995869117.jpeg" alt="Peterson,Michelle Lynn" />
 <figcaption>Peterson,Michelle Lynn</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Peterson,Michelle Lynn REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation,&nbsp;Failure to appear,&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702995881006.jpeg" alt="Plumb,Michael Lee" />
 <figcaption>Plumb,Michael Lee</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:Plumb,Michael Lee REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702995892399.jpeg" alt="Thomas,Monzye Armon" />
 <figcaption>Thomas,Monzye Armon</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME: Thomas,Monzye Armon REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702995916309.jpeg" alt="Villefranc,Allysa Nicole" />
 <figcaption>Villefranc,Allysa Nicole</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Villefranc,Allysa Nicole REQUESTED CHARGE(S): Probation Violation, Driving While Suspended, Failure to appear<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702995940626.jpeg" alt="Wood,Andrew Joseph" />
 <figcaption>Wood,Andrew Joseph</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Wood,Andrew Joseph REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702996103422.jpeg" alt="Wright,Dennis Lamar Maurice" />
 <figcaption>Wright,Dennis Lamar Maurice</figcaption>
 </figure>NAME:&nbsp;Wright,Dennis Lamar Maurice REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Probation Violation

Saline County Jail Activity, Dec. 19

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged mail theft.

Just after 9:30 a.m. Dec. 15,&nbsp; the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a report of mail theft in the 10,000 Block of SW 53rd Street, according to Sheriff's Lt. Scott Wanamaker. The reporting party advised that a gold Ford Ranger truck was involved in the theft and was last seen traveling eastbound on SW 53rd Street.

Approximately 30 minutes later, a deputy spotted the Ford Ranger traveling southbound on southwest Auburn Rd. The deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but the Ford Ranger failed to stop and a pursuit was initiated. A short time later, the Ford Ranger was involved in a single vehicle accident in the 6900 block SW Morrill Rd., where both the driver and passenger fled on foot. A 25-year-old female suspect was apprehended after a short foot pursuit and a second male subject was able to avoid apprehension. Upon further investigation, deputies found illegal narcotics and stolen mail inside the Ford Ranger.

The driver, Emily Kratochvil, 25, of Topeka was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections (SNDOC) on two warrants through the City of Topeka and requested charges that include possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of a prescription only drug, possession of drug paraphernalia, felony theft, possession of stolen property, attempted identify theft, failing to yield to an emergency vehicle, fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, driving while revoked, tag not assigned, speeding and two charges of failing to stop at a stop sign.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702744572865.png" alt="Kratochvil-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Kratochvil-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged mail theft.Just after 9:30 a.m. Dec. 15,&nbsp; the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a report of mail theft in the 10,000 Block of SW 53rd Street, according to Sheriff's Lt. Scott Wanamaker. The reporting party advised that a gold Ford Ranger truck was involved in the theft and was last seen traveling eastbound on SW 53rd Street.Approximately 30 minutes later, a deputy spotted the Ford Ranger traveling southbound on southwest Auburn Rd. The deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but the Ford Ranger failed to stop and a pursuit was initiated. A short time later, the Ford Ranger was involved in a single vehicle accident in the 6900 block SW Morrill Rd., where both the driver and passenger fled on foot. A 25-year-old female suspect was apprehended after a short foot pursuit and a second male subject was able to avoid apprehension. Upon further investigation, deputies found illegal narcotics and stolen mail inside the Ford Ranger.The driver, Emily Kratochvil, 25, of Topeka was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections (SNDOC) on two warrants through the City of Topeka and requested charges that include possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of a prescription only drug, possession of drug paraphernalia, felony theft, possession of stolen property, attempted identify theft, failing to yield to an emergency vehicle, fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, driving while revoked, tag not assigned, speeding and two charges of failing to stop at a stop sign.

Rural family reported woman in gold pickup was stealing mail

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas teen accused in a deadly shooting made a first court appearance Friday.

<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=744587">Philip Walls,</a> 18 of Derby, is charged with 1st&nbsp;degree murder and two counts of attempted aggravated robbery, 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 male suspects were in custody.&nbsp; Walls was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail December 13, <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=744587">according to online jail records.</a> He is being held on a $750,000 bond.&nbsp;Co-defendant James Sawyer, 19 of Wichita, remains in Oklahoma and is fighting extradition to Kansas.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702588818825.png" alt="Walls-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Walls-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas teen accused in a deadly shooting made a first court appearance Friday.<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=744587">Philip Walls,</a> 18 of Derby, is charged with 1st&nbsp;degree murder and two counts of attempted aggravated robbery, 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 male suspects were in custody.&nbsp; Walls was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail December 13, <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=744587">according to online jail records.</a> He is being held on a $750,000 bond.&nbsp;Co-defendant James Sawyer, 19 of Wichita, remains in Oklahoma and is fighting extradition to Kansas.&nbsp;

Kansas teen charged with murder during robbery 

On Dec. 17, 1903, Wilbur and Orville Wright of Dayton, Ohio, conducted the first successful manned powered-airplane flights near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, using their experimental craft, the Wright Flyer.

In 1777, France recognized American independence.

In 1933, in the inaugural NFL championship football game, the Chicago Bears defeated the New York Giants, 23-21, at Wrigley Field.

In 1944, the U.S. War Department announced it was ending its policy of excluding people of Japanese ancestry from the West Coast.

In 1957, the United States successfully test-fired the Atlas intercontinental ballistic missile for the first time.

In 1969, the U.S. Air Force closed its Project “Blue Book” by concluding there was no evidence of extraterrestrial spaceships behind thousands of UFO sightings.

In 1975, Lynette “Squeaky” Fromme was sentenced in Sacramento, California, to life in prison for her attempt on the life of President Gerald R. Ford. (She was paroled in August, 2009.)

In 1979, Arthur McDuffie, a Black insurance executive, was beaten by police after leading them on a chase with his motorcycle in Miami. McDuffie died in a hospital four days later. (Four white police officers accused of beating McDuffie were later acquitted, sparking riots.)

In 1992, President George H.W. Bush, Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney and Mexican President Carlos Salinas de Gortari signed the North American Free Trade Agreement in separate ceremonies.

In 2011, North Korean leader Kim Jong Il died after more than a decade of iron rule; he was 69, according to official records, but some reports indicated he was 70.

In 2012, Newtown, Connecticut, began laying its dead to rest, holding funerals for two 6-year-old boys, the first of the 20 children killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre.

In 2014, the United States and Cuba restored diplomatic relations, sweeping away one of the last vestiges of the Cold War.

In 2017, “The Last Jedi” took in $220 million in its debut weekend in North America, good for the second-best opening ever and behind only its predecessor, “The Force Awakens.”

In 2018, a report from the Senate intelligence committee found that Russia’s political disinformation campaign on U.S. social media was more far-reaching than originally thought, with troll farms working to discourage Black voters and “blur the lines between reality and fiction” to help elect Donald Trump.

In 2020, a government advisory panel endorsed a second COVID-19 vaccine, paving the way for the shot from Moderna and the National Institutes of Health to be added to the U.S. vaccination campaign.

In 2022, the Minnesota Vikings completed the biggest comeback in NFL history by erasing a 33-point deficit to beat the Indianapolis Colts 39-36 in overtime.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702673449919.png" alt="Orville Wright, lying at the controls on the lower wing, pilots the Wright Flyer on the first powered flight by a heavier-than-air aircraft, Dec. 17, 1903, at Kitty Hawk, N.C. In the moments before going airborne, his brother, Wilbur Wright, watching right, guided and steadied the plane as it accelerated along the starting rail at left. (AP Photo/Library of Congress, John T. Daniels)" />
 <figcaption>Orville Wright, lying at the controls on the lower wing, pilots the Wright Flyer on the first powered flight by a heavier-than-air aircraft, Dec. 17, 1903, at Kitty Hawk, N.C. In the moments before going airborne, his brother, Wilbur Wright, watching right, guided and steadied the plane as it accelerated along the starting rail at left. (AP Photo/Library of Congress, John T. Daniels)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Today’s Highlight in History:</h2>On Dec. 17, 1903, Wilbur and Orville Wright of Dayton, Ohio, conducted the first successful manned powered-airplane flights near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, using their experimental craft, the Wright Flyer.<h2>On this date:</h2>In 1777, France recognized American independence.In 1933, in the inaugural NFL championship football game, the Chicago Bears defeated the New York Giants, 23-21, at Wrigley Field.In 1944, the U.S. War Department announced it was ending its policy of excluding people of Japanese ancestry from the West Coast.In 1957, the United States successfully test-fired the Atlas intercontinental ballistic missile for the first time.In 1969, the U.S. Air Force closed its Project “Blue Book” by concluding there was no evidence of extraterrestrial spaceships behind thousands of UFO sightings.In 1975, Lynette “Squeaky” Fromme was sentenced in Sacramento, California, to life in prison for her attempt on the life of President Gerald R. Ford. (She was paroled in August, 2009.)In 1979, Arthur McDuffie, a Black insurance executive, was beaten by police after leading them on a chase with his motorcycle in Miami. McDuffie died in a hospital four days later. (Four white police officers accused of beating McDuffie were later acquitted, sparking riots.)In 1992, President George H.W. Bush, Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney and Mexican President Carlos Salinas de Gortari signed the North American Free Trade Agreement in separate ceremonies.In 2011, North Korean leader Kim Jong Il died after more than a decade of iron rule; he was 69, according to official records, but some reports indicated he was 70.In 2012, Newtown, Connecticut, began laying its dead to rest, holding funerals for two 6-year-old boys, the first of the 20 children killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre.In 2014, the United States and Cuba restored diplomatic relations, sweeping away one of the last vestiges of the Cold War.In 2017, “The Last Jedi” took in $220 million in its debut weekend in North America, good for the second-best opening ever and behind only its predecessor, “The Force Awakens.”In 2018, a report from the Senate intelligence committee found that Russia’s political disinformation campaign on U.S. social media was more far-reaching than originally thought, with troll farms working to discourage Black voters and “blur the lines between reality and fiction” to help elect Donald Trump.In 2020, a government advisory panel endorsed a second COVID-19 vaccine, paving the way for the shot from Moderna and the National Institutes of Health to be added to the U.S. vaccination campaign.In 2022, the Minnesota Vikings completed the biggest comeback in NFL history by erasing a 33-point deficit to beat the Indianapolis Colts 39-36 in overtime.

Today in History, Dec. 17

&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged burglary involving a number of firearms.

On Dec. 11, Sheriff's Deputies arrested 44-year-old Alyyshia Lee Schwanz of Topeka, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.

&nbsp;Schwanz is believed to be involved in a burglary that took place on December 5, near the Jackson, Jefferson and Atchison County lines.&nbsp; 

Schwanz allegedly stole a number of firearms from the residence.&nbsp; She was booked into the Jackson County Jail on a requested charge of burglary with the intent to steal firearms, criminal distribution of firearms to a felon and criminal damage to property. She is being held on a $50,000 bond, according to online jail records.

Earlier this month, she was arrested and booked her into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections following&nbsp; a single vehicle crash at the intersection of S. Kansas Ave and SW 6th Street in Topeka shortly before the scheduled Miracle on Kansas Avenue Parade.

She was held on requested charges of Possession of opiate, Driving Under Influence of Alcohol or Drugs, Possession of marijuana, Possession of hallucinogenic drug, Vehicle liability insurance required, Yield emergency vehicle, Improper Driving On Laned Roadway.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702501267569.png" alt="Schwanz-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Schwanz-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged burglary involving a number of firearms.On Dec. 11, Sheriff's Deputies arrested 44-year-old Alyyshia Lee Schwanz of Topeka, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.&nbsp;Schwanz is believed to be involved in a burglary that took place on December 5, near the Jackson, Jefferson and Atchison County lines.&nbsp; Schwanz allegedly stole a number of firearms from the residence.&nbsp; She was booked into the Jackson County Jail on a requested charge of burglary with the intent to steal firearms, criminal distribution of firearms to a felon and criminal damage to property. She is being held on a $50,000 bond, according to online jail records.Earlier this month, she was arrested and booked her into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections following&nbsp; a single vehicle crash at the intersection of S. Kansas Ave and SW 6th Street in Topeka shortly before the scheduled Miracle on Kansas Avenue Parade.She was held on requested charges of Possession of opiate, Driving Under Influence of Alcohol or Drugs, Possession of marijuana, Possession of hallucinogenic drug, Vehicle liability insurance required, Yield emergency vehicle, Improper Driving On Laned Roadway.

Kan. woman accused in burglary of a number of firearms

By RON WILSON Director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University

Where would you find an internationally known quilt designer?

Would you believe, in the middle of rural Kansas?

Lynne Hagmeier is too modest to describe herself in this way, but Hagmeier’s world-class quilt design work has been recognized across the nation and beyond.

Lynne and Robert Hagmeier are the owners of Kansas Troubles Quilters shop in Bennington. Lynne became fascinated with sewing at an early age. “Mom taught me to sew, and my grandmother made Barbie doll clothes with me,” Hagmeier said.

She grew up in Bennington, married her high school sweetheart, joined the Air Force, and used the GI bill to earn a degree in social work. She was living in Texas with her family when her husband was killed in an auto accident. Lynne and her four little kids returned to Kansas.

At a church picnic, she met Robert Hagmeier who was from Salina and had children the same age as hers. Lynne and Robert married and settled in Salina.

Hagmeier took a break from social work. She went into a local quilt shop and found she was fascinated with quilting. She and two friends started making little quilts. They decided to sell them at the Salina Riverfest.

“The Riverfest needed a name to put in the program,” Hagmeier said. “We looked in the quilt encyclopedia, which has thousands of quilt blocks, and found a design from the Civil War called Kansas Troubles. One of our husbands called the three of us triple trouble, so it seemed like a fit.”

Kansas Troubles Quilters was born. In 1994, after many requests for the patterns of their original creations, they published their patterns for wholesale distribution to quilt shops. Hagmeier continued the business after her friends moved on. She especially liked the design work.

“I didn’t want to make the same quilt over and over,” Hagmeier said. “I liked designing new ones, and I wanted to sell my ideas rather than sell my labor.”

She traveled around the state showing store owners her designs. One owner suggested she go to the International Quilt Market in Houston. She did so and connected with the Moda fabrics company, sometimes described as the Cadillac of fabric wholesalers. The people at Moda liked her work so much that they asked her to design a fabric line for them in 1999.

The Hagmeiers needed more space as the business grew. They bought and remodeled a vacant building in Lynne’s hometown of Bennington where they eventually moved.

The Hagmeiers also enjoy collecting antiques. They display many of those antiques in their store.

“Quilt retreats were becoming popular,” Lynne said. The Hagmeiers made the upstairs into a place for quilt retreats and put her studio and a small retail space on the first floor. The space became booked solid for retreats. As demand grew, the retail space expanded to fill the entire first floor and the studio was moved into their home.

“We started getting requests to do training and demonstrations in other states,” Hagmeier said. Then she began participating in something called a quilting cruise to places such as Alaska, Europe, and the Caribbean. Demand blossomed to the point that Robert left his job and joined the business.

Kansas Troubles quilts now hosts an annual fall KT &amp; Friends quilters retreat which attracts 50-80 ladies from across the country. “I like to bring in a guest teacher each fall,” Hagmeier said.

Today, Kansas Troubles Quilters shop in Bennington is a destination stop for quilters from across the nation. Hagmeier has created hundreds of quilt designs and written two dozen books. As noted, she designed her first line in 1999. “I’m now working on my 78th line,” she said.

It's an impressive business to be found in a rural community such as Bennington, population 622 people. Now, that’s rural.

For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ktquilts.com/">www.ktquilts.com</a>.

Bennington, Kansas is where we can find this international quilt design expert. We salute Lynne and Robert Hagmeier for their expertise in quilting craftsmanship. For quilters across the country, they are making a world of difference.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702672086330.jpeg" alt="Kansas Troubles Quilters, Bennington" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Troubles Quilters, Bennington</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State UniversityWhere would you find an internationally known quilt designer?Would you believe, in the middle of rural Kansas?Lynne Hagmeier is too modest to describe herself in this way, but Hagmeier’s world-class quilt design work has been recognized across the nation and beyond.Lynne and Robert Hagmeier are the owners of Kansas Troubles Quilters shop in Bennington. Lynne became fascinated with sewing at an early age. “Mom taught me to sew, and my grandmother made Barbie doll clothes with me,” Hagmeier said.Quilting would come later.She grew up in Bennington, married her high school sweetheart, joined the Air Force, and used the GI bill to earn a degree in social work. She was living in Texas with her family when her husband was killed in an auto accident. Lynne and her four little kids returned to Kansas.At a church picnic, she met Robert Hagmeier who was from Salina and had children the same age as hers. Lynne and Robert married and settled in Salina.Hagmeier took a break from social work. She went into a local quilt shop and found she was fascinated with quilting. She and two friends started making little quilts. They decided to sell them at the Salina Riverfest.“The Riverfest needed a name to put in the program,” Hagmeier said. “We looked in the quilt encyclopedia, which has thousands of quilt blocks, and found a design from the Civil War called Kansas Troubles. One of our husbands called the three of us triple trouble, so it seemed like a fit.”Kansas Troubles Quilters was born. In 1994, after many requests for the patterns of their original creations, they published their patterns for wholesale distribution to quilt shops. Hagmeier continued the business after her friends moved on. She especially liked the design work.“I didn’t want to make the same quilt over and over,” Hagmeier said. “I liked designing new ones, and I wanted to sell my ideas rather than sell my labor.”She traveled around the state showing store owners her designs. One owner suggested she go to the International Quilt Market in Houston. She did so and connected with the Moda fabrics company, sometimes described as the Cadillac of fabric wholesalers. The people at Moda liked her work so much that they asked her to design a fabric line for them in 1999.The Hagmeiers needed more space as the business grew. They bought and remodeled a vacant building in Lynne’s hometown of Bennington where they eventually moved.The Hagmeiers also enjoy collecting antiques. They display many of those antiques in their store.“Quilt retreats were becoming popular,” Lynne said. The Hagmeiers made the upstairs into a place for quilt retreats and put her studio and a small retail space on the first floor. The space became booked solid for retreats. As demand grew, the retail space expanded to fill the entire first floor and the studio was moved into their home.“We started getting requests to do training and demonstrations in other states,” Hagmeier said. Then she began participating in something called a quilting cruise to places such as Alaska, Europe, and the Caribbean. Demand blossomed to the point that Robert left his job and joined the business.Kansas Troubles quilts now hosts an annual fall KT &amp; Friends quilters retreat which attracts 50-80 ladies from across the country. “I like to bring in a guest teacher each fall,” Hagmeier said.Today, Kansas Troubles Quilters shop in Bennington is a destination stop for quilters from across the nation. Hagmeier has created hundreds of quilt designs and written two dozen books. As noted, she designed her first line in 1999. “I’m now working on my 78th line,” she said.It's an impressive business to be found in a rural community such as Bennington, population 622 people. Now, that’s rural.For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ktquilts.com/">www.ktquilts.com</a>.Bennington, Kansas is where we can find this international quilt design expert. We salute Lynne and Robert Hagmeier for their expertise in quilting craftsmanship. For quilters across the country, they are making a world of difference.

Kansas Profile – Now That’s Rural:  Lynne Hagmeier, quilts

Salina Post proudly presents Flashback Friday in partnership with the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.smokyhillmuseum.org/">Smoky Hill Museum</a>. Enjoy a weekly tidbit of local history from the staff at Salina Post and the Smoky Hill Museum as we present "Salina-Flashback Fridays."

Along the narrow streets of Assaria sit century-old buildings filled with stories of the small town's inhabitants.&nbsp;

One of those buildings once stood as the home of the Assaria Trojans, but today, it houses a beloved fine dining eatery named the Renaissance Café.

From Oban to Assaria — early history of the small community

Just a few miles west of the Smoky Hill River in south Saline County, English and Scottish settlers organized a tiny community named Oban, a Scottish word meaning "little bay," in the late 1800s.

Mans Peterson and Ben Hesser were among the region's first settlers in 1868, when they and the other community members began building grain elevators, hotels, a telegraph and post office and a roller mill.

As the inhabitants from the British Isles struggled through the harsh Kansas winters, they grew tired of the challenge and moved out of the region.

While the initial colonists left the region, many Swedish settlers arrived and founded the Assaria Lutheran Church.

One of those Swedish settlers, Jonas Applequist, arrived in 1870 with his family and established deep roots in the new community. His descendants later founded Great Plains Manufacturing Inc.

In 1879, a town company led by Highland Fairchild plotted and organized the town, renaming it Assaria as a tribute to its Swedish population. By 1883, Assaria boomed with growth, establishing 30 homes in the community and a population of 150 people by 1884.

The town's schools grew alongside its population, with 49 students in the primary grades and 54 in the advanced program. According to the Smoky Hill Museum, Assaria High School graduated its first class in 1913 with three students.

Assaria's schools only continued to grow, requiring the town to build a new school in 1919. There, kindergarten through 12th-grade students learned and competed as the Assaria Trojans.

The school featured four floors of classrooms and office spaces, with the ground floor housing the gymnasium and theater stage. The school's cafeteria surrounded the gym on a second-floor balcony, where the Renaissance Cafe serves its patrons today.

Throughout the next 50 years, the school continued to teach the community's children until 1968, when Assaria Schools consolidated with Southeast of Saline USD 306.

The building remained empty for a decade until Roy Applequist, the founder and CEO of Great Plains Manufacturing, purchased the school to expand his budding agricultural business.

"We bought the whole square block there in 1978," Applequist said. "As part of the Assaria High School building, there was a cafeteria there."

Applequist said the roughly 75 employees at Great Plains in Assaria used the cafeteria for lunch, where local women would cook for the workers.

"We had an hour lunch period, so a lot of us played volleyball for the last half hour of lunch," Applequist said.

Besides eating, the school also housed Great Plains' first factory, producing most of Applequist's products on the ground floor for the first three years until they needed more space for manufacturing.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d40aa69e-965b-4a3e-81c1-59182cec5931">📸 Flashback Friday: Salina Post - Brookville Hotel - Vol. 19</a>

The school continued to service Great Plains until the early 2000s when Applequist decided to use this historic building in a new way — an eatery inspired by his world travels.

Initially, the idea stemmed from when the local Coffee Cup Café burned down and left the community without a regular eatery. Applequist decided to open the cafeteria for patrons until he found a new opportunity to transform the location into a fine dining establishment.

Today, the school houses the Renaissance Cafe, with posters and photos Applequist and his family gathered from their global travels, alongside some excerpts from books and catalogs from the 1800s.

"Around the balcony, there's probably several hundred sepia-toned pictures," Applequist said. "We had one set of books that was famous people in the U.S. mainly that was published in 1890, so we took those pictures to the computer and blew them up to different sizes."

One of the portraits featured the previous U.S. president, Abraham Lincoln, alongside famous authors of the time.

Today, the cafe offers dining on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, catering and event opportunities, where patrons can view the gym while dining in the past Assaria School cafeteria.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691164615840.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Post proudly presents Flashback Friday in partnership with the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.smokyhillmuseum.org/">Smoky Hill Museum</a>. Enjoy a weekly tidbit of local history from the staff at Salina Post and the Smoky Hill Museum as we present "Salina-Flashback Fridays."By SALINA POSTAlong the narrow streets of Assaria sit century-old buildings filled with stories of the small town's inhabitants.&nbsp;One of those buildings once stood as the home of the Assaria Trojans, but today, it houses a beloved fine dining eatery named the Renaissance Café.<div><div class="flourish-embed flourish-photo-slider" data-src="visualisation/16162759"><script src="https://public.flourish.studio/resources/embed.js"></script></div></div><h2>From Oban to Assaria — early history of the small community</h2>Just a few miles west of the Smoky Hill River in south Saline County, English and Scottish settlers organized a tiny community named Oban, a Scottish word meaning "little bay," in the late 1800s.Mans Peterson and Ben Hesser were among the region's first settlers in 1868, when they and the other community members began building grain elevators, hotels, a telegraph and post office and a roller mill.As the inhabitants from the British Isles struggled through the harsh Kansas winters, they grew tired of the challenge and moved out of the region.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702664126083.jpeg" alt="A class of Assaria School children c. 1920. Photo courtesy Smoky Hill Museum" />
 <figcaption>A class of Assaria School children c. 1920. Photo courtesy Smoky Hill Museum</figcaption>
 </figure>While the initial colonists left the region, many Swedish settlers arrived and founded the Assaria Lutheran Church.One of those Swedish settlers, Jonas Applequist, arrived in 1870 with his family and established deep roots in the new community. His descendants later founded Great Plains Manufacturing Inc.In 1879, a town company led by Highland Fairchild plotted and organized the town, renaming it Assaria as a tribute to its Swedish population. By 1883, Assaria boomed with growth, establishing 30 homes in the community and a population of 150 people by 1884.The town's schools grew alongside its population, with 49 students in the primary grades and 54 in the advanced program. According to the Smoky Hill Museum, Assaria High School graduated its first class in 1913 with three students.<h2>Assaria Schools to fine Italian cuisine</h2>Assaria's schools only continued to grow, requiring the town to build a new school in 1919. There, kindergarten through 12th-grade students learned and competed as the Assaria Trojans.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702664076484.jpeg" alt="An Assaria Grade School classroom c. 1920. Photo courtesy Smoky Hill Museum" />
 <figcaption>An Assaria Grade School classroom c. 1920. Photo courtesy Smoky Hill Museum</figcaption>
 </figure>The school featured four floors of classrooms and office spaces, with the ground floor housing the gymnasium and theater stage. The school's cafeteria surrounded the gym on a second-floor balcony, where the Renaissance Cafe serves its patrons today.Throughout the next 50 years, the school continued to teach the community's children until 1968, when Assaria Schools consolidated with Southeast of Saline USD 306.The building remained empty for a decade until Roy Applequist, the founder and CEO of Great Plains Manufacturing, purchased the school to expand his budding agricultural business."We bought the whole square block there in 1978," Applequist said. "As part of the Assaria High School building, there was a cafeteria there."Applequist said the roughly 75 employees at Great Plains in Assaria used the cafeteria for lunch, where local women would cook for the workers."We had an hour lunch period, so a lot of us played volleyball for the last half hour of lunch," Applequist said.Besides eating, the school also housed Great Plains' first factory, producing most of Applequist's products on the ground floor for the first three years until they needed more space for manufacturing.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d40aa69e-965b-4a3e-81c1-59182cec5931">📸 Flashback Friday: Salina Post - Brookville Hotel - Vol. 19</a>The school continued to service Great Plains until the early 2000s when Applequist decided to use this historic building in a new way — an eatery inspired by his world travels.Initially, the idea stemmed from when the local Coffee Cup Café burned down and left the community without a regular eatery. Applequist decided to open the cafeteria for patrons until he found a new opportunity to transform the location into a fine dining establishment.Today, the school houses the Renaissance Cafe, with posters and photos Applequist and his family gathered from their global travels, alongside some excerpts from books and catalogs from the 1800s."Around the balcony, there's probably several hundred sepia-toned pictures," Applequist said. "We had one set of books that was famous people in the U.S. mainly that was published in 1890, so we took those pictures to the computer and blew them up to different sizes."One of the portraits featured the previous U.S. president, Abraham Lincoln, alongside famous authors of the time.Today, the cafe offers dining on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, catering and event opportunities, where patrons can view the gym while dining in the past Assaria School cafeteria.

📸 Flashback Friday: Salina Post - Renaissance Cafe - Vol. 20

SHAWNEE COUYNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a registered Kansas offender for new crimses after an arrest.

Just after 3a.m. Tuesday, police observed a suspicious person inside Tortilla Jacks, 1618 SW Washburn Avenue, in Topeka, according to&nbsp; police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.

Police contacted the owners and received permission to enter as no one was permitted to be there.

Officers found damage to the property and eventually located the individual, later identified as Jeffrey E. Peak, 37, of Topeka, as well as narcotics. As a result of the investigation, Peak was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft, DV, or sexually motivated crime, Criminal Trespass; Unknown Circumstance, Aggravated criminal damage &gt;$5k; intent to steal scrap metal; infrastructure of building and Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702395036710.png" alt="Peak-photo KBI offender registry" />
 <figcaption>Peak-photo KBI offender registry</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUYNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a registered Kansas offender for new crimses after an arrest.Just after 3a.m. Tuesday, police observed a suspicious person inside Tortilla Jacks, 1618 SW Washburn Avenue, in Topeka, according to&nbsp; police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.Police contacted the owners and received permission to enter as no one was permitted to be there.Officers found damage to the property and eventually located the individual, later identified as Jeffrey E. Peak, 37, of Topeka, as well as narcotics. As a result of the investigation, Peak was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft, DV, or sexually motivated crime, Criminal Trespass; Unknown Circumstance, Aggravated criminal damage &gt;$5k; intent to steal scrap metal; infrastructure of building and Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body.

Police catch registered offender in restaurant after hours

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for attempted theft.

Just after 6a.m Wednesday, a home owner in the 4200 Block NW Rochester road in rural Shawnee County called the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center reporting that a vehicle had driven through their yard behind their home, according to Sheriff's Lt. Scott Wanamaker.

The vehicle drove through the tree line behind the reporting party’s home and into a field near the west fence line to Tarwater Farm and Home Supply, 4107 NW Topeka Blvd.

A deputy was close to the area of the call and responded to Tarwater Farm and Home Supply.&nbsp; The deputy observed a man&nbsp; walking through the parking lot, carrying a fence T-Post. When the man saw the deputy he turned and ran. The deputy caught the man in the 4200 block NW Sproatan Lane.

The subject was detained and identified as 58 -year-old Darrell E Hunter of Topeka. After further investigation at the scene he was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for Criminal Trespass and Attempted Theft.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702500447602.png" alt="Hunter-photo Shawnee Countyu" />
 <figcaption>Hunter-photo Shawnee Countyu</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for attempted theft.Just after 6a.m Wednesday, a home owner in the 4200 Block NW Rochester road in rural Shawnee County called the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center reporting that a vehicle had driven through their yard behind their home, according to Sheriff's Lt. Scott Wanamaker.The vehicle drove through the tree line behind the reporting party’s home and into a field near the west fence line to Tarwater Farm and Home Supply, 4107 NW Topeka Blvd.A deputy was close to the area of the call and responded to Tarwater Farm and Home Supply.&nbsp; The deputy observed a man&nbsp; walking through the parking lot, carrying a fence T-Post. When the man saw the deputy he turned and ran. The deputy caught the man in the 4200 block NW Sproatan Lane.The subject was detained and identified as 58 -year-old Darrell E Hunter of Topeka. After further investigation at the scene he was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for Criminal Trespass and Attempted Theft.

Man caught attempting to take items from Kan. farm and home store

Elizabeth Ann Francis Schroeder December 27, 1961 ~ December 1, 2023

Elizabeth (Beth) Ann Francis Schroeder was born in Wichita, KS on December 27th, 1961, to parents Carol and Eugene Schroeder. She was the youngest of four children, having three older siblings, Tim, Patrice, and Jo Lynn.&nbsp;

She was raised under the signature Pizza Hut Red Roof, starting from napping in booths as a child, to young teen waitress, to young adult serving tables in the Pear Tree Restaurant and Peppy Partridge Club, to keeping books in the Pizza Co. office on and off until the franchise sold many years later.

A lifelong lover of Rock n’ Roll music, nice cars, and a good smoke, she attended school at Hutchinson Community College to receive her Associate Arts Degree in Broadcasting. While going to college and working at KSKU radio in Hutchinson, she met her future husband and lifemate Bruce Chalmers. They married July 22nd, 1982, and created a family with three children - Abbey Jo, Brandell Eugene, and Carolann Patricia. The whirlwind early years led Beth and Bruce to start their own radio station, KQNS 95.5 “The Rock'', which won an award for KAKE 10 Best Kansas Company 1996.&nbsp; Through the buzz of her blossoming life, she was a loving wife, mother, leader, daughter, sister, and friend to all.&nbsp; She kept an open door to all children her kids brought home, offering a meal and a warm place to rest if needed.&nbsp;

As her children grew, she became a grandmother to three - Sylas Dean, Isla Ellice, and Cohen Michael. She loved being the fun grandma that let them have a soda or happy meal and stay up late. She could be talked into a water slide or lacing up a pair of roller skates because she loved to fill hearts with happy memories, even if she needed a chiropractor after.&nbsp; In her later years, she opened her heart even more and became a caretaker to aging and ailing loved ones on multiple occasions, even quitting work to move in with her mom and care for her after she could no longer live alone.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Beth is preceded in death by both parents Eugene (1988) and Carol (2023), brother Tim (2004), and sister Patsy (2023). She is survived by sister Jo, ex-husband Bruce, children Abbey, Brandell, and Carolann, and grandchildren Sylas, Isla, and Cohen.&nbsp;

A celebration of life will be held at the American Legion in McPherson on her birthday, December 27th, 2023, from 4-7 pm.

Memorial donations can be made to the American Cancer Society in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Personal condolences may be sent to the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stockhamfamily.com">www.stockhamfamily.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702480759113.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Elizabeth Ann Francis Schroeder December 27, 1961 ~ December 1, 2023Elizabeth (Beth) Ann Francis Schroeder was born in Wichita, KS on December 27th, 1961, to parents Carol and Eugene Schroeder. She was the youngest of four children, having three older siblings, Tim, Patrice, and Jo Lynn.&nbsp;She was raised under the signature Pizza Hut Red Roof, starting from napping in booths as a child, to young teen waitress, to young adult serving tables in the Pear Tree Restaurant and Peppy Partridge Club, to keeping books in the Pizza Co. office on and off until the franchise sold many years later.A lifelong lover of Rock n’ Roll music, nice cars, and a good smoke, she attended school at Hutchinson Community College to receive her Associate Arts Degree in Broadcasting. While going to college and working at KSKU radio in Hutchinson, she met her future husband and lifemate Bruce Chalmers. They married July 22nd, 1982, and created a family with three children - Abbey Jo, Brandell Eugene, and Carolann Patricia. The whirlwind early years led Beth and Bruce to start their own radio station, KQNS 95.5 “The Rock'', which won an award for KAKE 10 Best Kansas Company 1996.&nbsp; Through the buzz of her blossoming life, she was a loving wife, mother, leader, daughter, sister, and friend to all.&nbsp; She kept an open door to all children her kids brought home, offering a meal and a warm place to rest if needed.&nbsp;As her children grew, she became a grandmother to three - Sylas Dean, Isla Ellice, and Cohen Michael. She loved being the fun grandma that let them have a soda or happy meal and stay up late. She could be talked into a water slide or lacing up a pair of roller skates because she loved to fill hearts with happy memories, even if she needed a chiropractor after.&nbsp; In her later years, she opened her heart even more and became a caretaker to aging and ailing loved ones on multiple occasions, even quitting work to move in with her mom and care for her after she could no longer live alone.&nbsp;&nbsp;Beth is preceded in death by both parents Eugene (1988) and Carol (2023), brother Tim (2004), and sister Patsy (2023). She is survived by sister Jo, ex-husband Bruce, children Abbey, Brandell, and Carolann, and grandchildren Sylas, Isla, and Cohen.&nbsp;A celebration of life will be held at the American Legion in McPherson on her birthday, December 27th, 2023, from 4-7 pm.Memorial donations can be made to the American Cancer Society in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.&nbsp;&nbsp;Personal condolences may be sent to the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stockhamfamily.com">www.stockhamfamily.com</a>.

Elizabeth Ann Francis Schroeder

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

After splitting their matchups against the rival Trojans from Beloit last Friday, the Southeast of Saline basketball teams will be back on the road tonight as they travel up the road to take on Abilene.

These games will close the book on a grueling stretch that sees SES play three of their first four games on the road, as Southeast will play their final two games of the calendar year in Gypsum.

Girls Game: SE of Saline (2-1) vs. Abilene (0-3)

After stumbling against a state-ranked Hesston squad, the Lady Trojans seem to have found their footing, defeating Smoky Valley and Beloit in convincing fashion last week.

Now, the Southeast will look to turn back-to-back wins into a streak against a struggling Abilene program, still in search of their first win on the year.

The Lady Trojans have dominated this series as of late, winning each matchup over the last three years.

Despite their early-season struggles, the Cowgirls are still building themselves into the team they want to be down the stretch, and have seen some real progress through the first couple of weeks.

“Our effort has been outstanding and we have taken much better care of the basketball in the last two games,” Cowgirl head coach Shawn Herrman said. “We still need to be patient on offense and run through our offense. SES is super aggressive on defense and they move the ball well so we will have to slow them down and guard the perimeter well.”

Meanwhile, to continue their recent run of dominance, the Lady Trojans will have to overcome Claira Dannefer and her ability to create mismatches in the paint.

“Everyone improves when they get a year older and stronger and that’s what we’re seeing with Abilene,” SES head coach Shauna Smith said. “They have a real challenge for us in Dannefer inside so we’ll need to keep the tempo of the game up and spread the floor a little more.”

Tip-off between the Lady Trojans and Cowgirls is scheduled for 6:00 at Abilene High School.

Boys Game: SE of Saline (1-2) vs. Abilene (3-0)

After knocking off Smoky Valley to get into the win column, SES found themselves outmatched by a larger Beloit team on Friday, and battled hard but ultimately fell 44-40.

Things won’t get easier for the Trojans tonight, as they shift their focus to an undefeated Abilene team eager to repay them for a 77-59 drubbing from a season ago.

This area matchup has provided some excellent basketball over the last three years, with Southeast taking two of the three meetings between the two.

Abilene knows that in order to knock off the Trojans, they will need a full team effort, and will have to contain the playmaking ability of Southeast’s leaders on the floor.

“Owen Bailey is the guy who has been shooting the ball so well, and we have to pay attention to him at all times,” Cowboy head coach Erik Graefe said. “But the kid who “stirs the drink” as they say, is Kejr. He has been starting for a lot of years, through a lot of wins, and his poise and ability to create are a real problem. This will be a great test for us, SES is a really good team.”

While Abilene isn’t taking the Trojans likely, many around the state see the Cowboys as strong favorites ahead of this matchup, and Southeast will have their work cut out for them on Tuesday night.

“Abilene plays fast and they want to speed you up,” SES head coach Bryson Flax said. “It’s almost like watching our team from last year where they can get up on you in a hurry. They create a lot of turnovers and you don’t average 75 a game without good scorers. This will be a challenge for us.”

The boy’s game will begin 20 minutes after the conclusion of the girls game tonight.

Broadcast Information - Location: Abilene High School - Radio: KINA (910 AM/107.5 FM) - Live Stream Video: Link Below - Pregame: 5:30 PM

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.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>After splitting their matchups against the rival Trojans from Beloit last Friday, the Southeast of Saline basketball teams will be back on the road tonight as they travel up the road to take on Abilene.These games will close the book on a grueling stretch that sees SES play three of their first four games on the road, as Southeast will play their final two games of the calendar year in Gypsum.Girls Game: SE of Saline (2-1) vs. Abilene (0-3)After stumbling against a state-ranked Hesston squad, the Lady Trojans seem to have found their footing, defeating Smoky Valley and Beloit in convincing fashion last week.Now, the Southeast will look to turn back-to-back wins into a streak against a struggling Abilene program, still in search of their first win on the year.The Lady Trojans have dominated this series as of late, winning each matchup over the last three years.Despite their early-season struggles, the Cowgirls are still building themselves into the team they want to be down the stretch, and have seen some real progress through the first couple of weeks.“Our effort has been outstanding and we have taken much better care of the basketball in the last two games,” Cowgirl head coach Shawn Herrman said. “We still need to be patient on offense and run through our offense. SES is super aggressive on defense and they move the ball well so we will have to slow them down and guard the perimeter well.”Meanwhile, to continue their recent run of dominance, the Lady Trojans will have to overcome Claira Dannefer and her ability to create mismatches in the paint.“Everyone improves when they get a year older and stronger and that’s what we’re seeing with Abilene,” SES head coach Shauna Smith said. “They have a real challenge for us in Dannefer inside so we’ll need to keep the tempo of the game up and spread the floor a little more.”Tip-off between the Lady Trojans and Cowgirls is scheduled for 6:00 at Abilene High School.Boys Game: SE of Saline (1-2) vs. Abilene (3-0)After knocking off Smoky Valley to get into the win column, SES found themselves outmatched by a larger Beloit team on Friday, and battled hard but ultimately fell 44-40.Things won’t get easier for the Trojans tonight, as they shift their focus to an undefeated Abilene team eager to repay them for a 77-59 drubbing from a season ago.This area matchup has provided some excellent basketball over the last three years, with Southeast taking two of the three meetings between the two.Abilene knows that in order to knock off the Trojans, they will need a full team effort, and will have to contain the playmaking ability of Southeast’s leaders on the floor.“Owen Bailey is the guy who has been shooting the ball so well, and we have to pay attention to him at all times,” Cowboy head coach Erik Graefe said. “But the kid who “stirs the drink” as they say, is Kejr. He has been starting for a lot of years, through a lot of wins, and his poise and ability to create are a real problem. This will be a great test for us, SES is a really good team.”While Abilene isn’t taking the Trojans likely, many around the state see the Cowboys as strong favorites ahead of this matchup, and Southeast will have their work cut out for them on Tuesday night.“Abilene plays fast and they want to speed you up,” SES head coach Bryson Flax said. “It’s almost like watching our team from last year where they can get up on you in a hurry. They create a lot of turnovers and you don’t average 75 a game without good scorers. This will be a challenge for us.”The boy’s game will begin 20 minutes after the conclusion of the girls game tonight.Broadcast Information - Location: Abilene High School - Radio: KINA (910 AM/107.5 FM) - Live Stream Video: Link Below - Pregame: 5:30 PM<figure>
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SES Makes Trek to Abilene for Showdown with Cowboys and Cowgirls

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a high speed chase.

Just after 8 p.m.,&nbsp; Dec. 8, a trooper with the Kansas Highway Patrol attempted to stop a vehicle which then fled into the City of Great Bend traveling at a high rate of speed, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir.

&nbsp;Due to the speed of the vehicle and traffic conditions at the time, the trooper opted to terminate the chase.

About 30 minutes later, Sheriff’s deputies encountered the vehicle northbound on US 281 Highway traveling at a high rate of speed. Deputies attempted to stop the vehicle and it again fled. During the course of the chase the vehicle struck one of the Sheriff’s office vehicles. The pursuit ended a short time later.

The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle was identified as 50-year-old Gavin Allen of Wichita.&nbsp; Deputies arrested him at the scene and transported to the Barton County Jail where he was booked on charges requested charges of felony attempt to flee and elude, aggravated assault of law enforcement officer and criminal damage to property. Allen is being held in lieu of a $100,000 bond, according to Bellendir.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702322269949.png" alt="Allen -photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Allen -photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a high speed chase.Just after 8 p.m.,&nbsp; Dec. 8, a trooper with the Kansas Highway Patrol attempted to stop a vehicle which then fled into the City of Great Bend traveling at a high rate of speed, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir.&nbsp;Due to the speed of the vehicle and traffic conditions at the time, the trooper opted to terminate the chase.About 30 minutes later, Sheriff’s deputies encountered the vehicle northbound on US 281 Highway traveling at a high rate of speed. Deputies attempted to stop the vehicle and it again fled. During the course of the chase the vehicle struck one of the Sheriff’s office vehicles. The pursuit ended a short time later.The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle was identified as 50-year-old Gavin Allen of Wichita.&nbsp; Deputies arrested him at the scene and transported to the Barton County Jail where he was booked on charges requested charges of felony attempt to flee and elude, aggravated assault of law enforcement officer and criminal damage to property. Allen is being held in lieu of a $100,000 bond, according to Bellendir.

 Kansas deputy's vehicle struck during high-speed chase

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

Just before 11:30pm Dec. 7, a deputy sheriff conducted a traffic stop in the 2700 block of SE Maryland Avenue on a black 2023 Nissan Sentra that was connected to a Drug Enforcement Unit search warrant, according to Deputy Shayna Anderson.

During the investigation, the deputy found illegal narcotics and arrested the driver 39-year-old Damario D. Brooks of Topeka.&nbsp; He is being held on requested charges of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana and driving a vehicle without a valid license.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702072105568.png" alt="Brooks-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Brooks-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple drug allegations after a traffic stop.Just before 11:30pm Dec. 7, a deputy sheriff conducted a traffic stop in the 2700 block of SE Maryland Avenue on a black 2023 Nissan Sentra that was connected to a Drug Enforcement Unit search warrant, according to Deputy Shayna Anderson.During the investigation, the deputy found illegal narcotics and arrested the driver 39-year-old Damario D. Brooks of Topeka.&nbsp; He is being held on requested charges of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana and driving a vehicle without a valid license.The passenger, Amaya J. Colpitts, 18, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County DOC on a misdemeanor traffic warrant through Shawnee County.