SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man who admitted killing his wife and her boyfriend in 2023 is going to prison.

On Friday, Charles Crawford, 63, received two consecutive life sentences&nbsp; for the murders of Vanessa Crawford, 50, and Donald Eckert, 58, on July 25, 2023, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's Office.

Crawford will not be eligible for parole until 2073.

In December Crawford entered a "no contest" plea to two counts of first-degree felony murder.&nbsp;

"The sentencing of Charles Crawford to two life terms provides a measure of justice for Vanessa Crawford and Donald Eckert, and their families," stated District Attorney Marc Bennett.

The District Attorney's office acknowledges the critical role of the Wichita Police Department. "This conviction and sentence are a testament to the diligent work of the Wichita Police Department whose swift response and thorough investigation were critical in apprehending Crawford and building a strong case. "We especially want to thank Detective Addie Perkins for her tireless efforts in this case."

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man who admitted killing his wife and her boyfriend in 2023 is scheduled for sentencing Friday.

In February, 63-year-old Charles Crawford of Wichita,&nbsp; told Judge Jeffrey Goering he wanted to withdraw his guilty plea in the case, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. In December, Crawford pled no contest to two counts of 1st&nbsp;degree murder for&nbsp;the deaths of his 50-year-old wife Vanessa Crawford and her 58-year-old boyfriend Donald Eckert.

Judge Goering will announce his decision on the request for a change of plea Friday.

In July of 2023, a woman dropping off her child at an in-home daycare saw the two homicide victims through a window of a home in the 1100 Block of North Woodrow in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. The victims were identified as Vanessa Crawford and Donald Eckert both of Wichita.

While the investigation was taking place on the scene, Charles Crawford arrived with a gun pointed at his own head. Officers took cover for safety and immediately requested the assistance of SWAT and Crisis Negotiators. A standoff ensued with Crawford but it ended peacefully when he surrendered and was taken into custody

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690372152213.png" alt="Crawford photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Crawford photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man who admitted killing his wife and her boyfriend in 2023 is going to prison.On Friday, Charles Crawford, 63, received two consecutive life sentences&nbsp; for the murders of Vanessa Crawford, 50, and Donald Eckert, 58, on July 25, 2023, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's Office.Crawford will not be eligible for parole until 2073.In December Crawford entered a "no contest" plea to two counts of first-degree felony murder.&nbsp;"The sentencing of Charles Crawford to two life terms provides a measure of justice for Vanessa Crawford and Donald Eckert, and their families," stated District Attorney Marc Bennett.The District Attorney's office acknowledges the critical role of the Wichita Police Department. "This conviction and sentence are a testament to the diligent work of the Wichita Police Department whose swift response and thorough investigation were critical in apprehending Crawford and building a strong case. "We especially want to thank Detective Addie Perkins for her tireless efforts in this case."----------SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man who admitted killing his wife and her boyfriend in 2023 is scheduled for sentencing Friday.In February, 63-year-old Charles Crawford of Wichita,&nbsp; told Judge Jeffrey Goering he wanted to withdraw his guilty plea in the case, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. In December, Crawford pled no contest to two counts of 1st&nbsp;degree murder for&nbsp;the deaths of his 50-year-old wife Vanessa Crawford and her 58-year-old boyfriend Donald Eckert.Judge Goering will announce his decision on the request for a change of plea Friday.In July of 2023, a woman dropping off her child at an in-home daycare saw the two homicide victims through a window of a home in the 1100 Block of North Woodrow in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. The victims were identified as Vanessa Crawford and Donald Eckert both of Wichita.While the investigation was taking place on the scene, Charles Crawford arrived with a gun pointed at his own head. Officers took cover for safety and immediately requested the assistance of SWAT and Crisis Negotiators. A standoff ensued with Crawford but it ended peacefully when he surrendered and was taken into custody

Sentencing Day: Kansas man killed wife, her boyfriend

NEW YORK (AP) — Zohran Mamdani has declared victory in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary after Andrew Cuomo conceded the race in a stunning upset. The race’s ultimate outcome will still be decided by a ranked choice count. But Mamdani was in a commanding position after polls closed Tuesday night. The 33-year-old democratic socialist was virtually unknown outside of political circles a year ago. Cuomo was trying to make a comeback from a sexual harassment scandal. He told supporters that he had called Mamdani to congratulate him. He trailed Mamdani by a significant margin in the first choice ballots.

NEW YORK (AP) — State Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani held a tentative lead over former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the rest of the crowded field in New York City’s mayoral primary, but the race’s outcome will be decided by a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nyc-ranked-choice-voting-explained-bdf80be2a079c8573b4571adfc6f4015">ranked choice</a>&nbsp;count after neither Democrat got a clear majority in Tuesday’s vote.

With more than an estimated 80% of ballots counted, the race was headed to the ranked choice process.

Mamdani was several points shy of the 50% threshold needed to win outright and wasn’t winning any updates by enough of a margin to close that gap. At the same time, in second place with roughly 36% of the vote among ballots counted, Cuomo was also not gaining ground on Mamdani as counting continued.

It isn’t clear whether that lead will hold. The primary now enters the ranked choice phase, in which candidates with the least support are eliminated and votes cast for them are redistributed based on voter preference. That process won’t begin until July 1.

Mamdani is a 33-year-old democratic socialist who would be the city’s first Muslim and Indian American mayor if elected. Cuomo is trying to make a comeback from a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cuomo-new-york-sexual-harrassment-investigation-d0b44db45ab3cd47190f0b483e785bc0">sexual harassment scandal</a>. Incumbent Mayor Eric Adams skipped the primary. He’s running as an independent.

The race's ultimate outcome could say something about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-primary-mayor-decision-notes-ff7234fa6a2a4259bb7f7c2b0900d5ba">what kind of leader</a>&nbsp;Democrats are looking for during President Donald Trump's second term.

The vote takes place about four years after Cuomo, 67, resigned as governor following a sexual harassment scandal. Yet he has been the favorite throughout the race, with his deep experience, nearly universal name recognition, strong political connections and juggernaut fundraising apparatus.

The party's progressive wing, meanwhile, has coalesced behind Mamdani, 33, a self-described democratic socialist. A relatively unknown state legislator when the contest began, Mamdani gained momentum by running a sharp campaign laser-focused on the city's high cost of living and secured endorsements from two of the country's foremost progressives, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders.

The candidates made a final push out in the city earlier in the day, sweating it out with voters on a sizzling summer day in which temperatures reached the triple digits. While initial returns were being released after the polls closed at 9 p.m. Tuesday, a winner might not emerge for a week because of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nyc-ranked-choice-voting-explained-bdf80be2a079c8573b4571adfc6f4015">the city's ranked choice voting system</a>, which allows voters to list up to five candidates in order of preference. If a candidate is the first choice of a majority of voters, they win outright. If no candidate reaches that threshold, the tabulation of the rankings wouldn’t begin until July 1.

The primary winner will go on to face incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, a Democrat who decided to run as an independent amid a public uproar over his indictment on corruption charges and the subsequent abandonment of the case by Trump's Justice Department. Republican&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/curtis-sliwa">Curtis Sliwa</a>, the founder of the Guardian Angels, will be on the ballot in the fall's general election. There is also a possibility that Cuomo runs on the November ballot as an independent candidate if he loses the primary.

The mayoral primary’s two leading candidates — one a fresh-faced progressive and the other an older moderate — could be stand-ins for the larger Democratic Party’s ideological divide, though Cuomo’s scandal-scarred past adds a unique tinge to the narrative.

The rest of the pack has struggled to gain recognition in a race where nearly every candidate has cast themselves as the person best positioned to challenge Trump's Republican agenda.

Comptroller Brad Lander, a liberal city government stalwart, made a splash last week when he was arrested after linking arms with a man federal agents were trying to detain at an immigration court in Manhattan. It was unclear if that episode was enough to jump-start a campaign that had been failing to pick up speed behind Lander.

Among the other candidates are City Council Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-new-york-city-queens-76fa94bfa7899d16ff469004c1b0b7ee">Adrienne Adams</a>, state Sen. Zellnor Myrie, hedge fund executive Whitney Tilson and former city Comptroller&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/scott-stringer">Scott Stringer</a>.

Mamdani's energetic run has been hard not to notice.

His army of young canvassers relentlessly knocked on doors throughout the city seeking support. Posters of his grinning mug were up on shop windows. You couldn't get on social media without seeing one of his well-produced videos pitching his vision — free buses, free child care, new apartments, a higher minimum wage and more, paid for by new taxes on rich people. He would be the city's first Indian American and first Muslim mayor.

That youthful energy was apparent Tuesday evening, as both cautiously optimistic canvassers and ecstatic supporters lined the streets of Central Brooklyn, creating a party-like atmosphere that spread from poll sites into the surrounding neighborhoods.

Outside his family’s Caribbean apothecary, Amani Kojo, a 23-year-old first-time voter, passed out iced tea to Mamdani canvassers, encouraging them to stay hydrated.

“It’s 100 degrees outside and it's a vibe. New York City feels alive again,” Kojo said, raising a pile of Mamdani pamphlets. “It feels very electric seeing all the people around, the flyers, all the posts on my Instagram all day.”

Cuomo and some other Democrats have cast Mamdani as unqualified. They say he doesn't have the management chops to wrangle the city's sprawling bureaucracy or handle crises. Critics have also taken aim at Mamdani's support for Palestinian human rights.

In response, Mamdani has slammed Cuomo over his sexual harassment scandal and his handling of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic">coronavirus pandemic</a>.

In one heated debate exchange, Cuomo rattled off a long list of what he saw as Mamdani's managerial shortcomings, arguing that his opponent, who has been in the state Assembly since 2021, has never dealt with Congress or unions and never overseen an infrastructure project. He added that Mamdani couldn't be relied upon to go toe-to-toe with Trump.

“To Mr. Cuomo, I have never had to resign in disgrace,” he said.

Cuomo&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/andrew-cuomo-resigns-17161f546bb83c32a337036ecf8d2a34">resigned in 2021</a>&nbsp;after a report commissioned by the state attorney general concluded that he had sexually harassed at least 11 women. He has always maintained that he didn't intentionally harass the women, saying he had simply fallen behind what was considered appropriate workplace conduct.

During the campaign, he has become more aggressive in defending himself, framing the situation as a political hit job orchestrated by his enemies.

The fresh scandal at City Hall involving Mayor Eric Adams, though, gave Cuomo a path to end his exile.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750767876711.png" alt="Zohran Mamdani courtesy image&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Zohran Mamdani courtesy image&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Zohran Mamdani has declared victory in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary after Andrew Cuomo conceded the race in a stunning upset. The race’s ultimate outcome will still be decided by a ranked choice count. But Mamdani was in a commanding position after polls closed Tuesday night. The 33-year-old democratic socialist was virtually unknown outside of political circles a year ago. Cuomo was trying to make a comeback from a sexual harassment scandal. He told supporters that he had called Mamdani to congratulate him. He trailed Mamdani by a significant margin in the first choice ballots.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750767976045.png" alt="photo courtesy Cuomo for Mayor campaign" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy Cuomo for Mayor campaign</figcaption>
 </figure>----------NEW YORK (AP) — State Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani held a tentative lead over former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the rest of the crowded field in New York City’s mayoral primary, but the race’s outcome will be decided by a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nyc-ranked-choice-voting-explained-bdf80be2a079c8573b4571adfc6f4015">ranked choice</a>&nbsp;count after neither Democrat got a clear majority in Tuesday’s vote.With more than an estimated 80% of ballots counted, the race was headed to the ranked choice process.Mamdani was several points shy of the 50% threshold needed to win outright and wasn’t winning any updates by enough of a margin to close that gap. At the same time, in second place with roughly 36% of the vote among ballots counted, Cuomo was also not gaining ground on Mamdani as counting continued.It isn’t clear whether that lead will hold. The primary now enters the ranked choice phase, in which candidates with the least support are eliminated and votes cast for them are redistributed based on voter preference. That process won’t begin until July 1.Mamdani is a 33-year-old democratic socialist who would be the city’s first Muslim and Indian American mayor if elected. Cuomo is trying to make a comeback from a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cuomo-new-york-sexual-harrassment-investigation-d0b44db45ab3cd47190f0b483e785bc0">sexual harassment scandal</a>. Incumbent Mayor Eric Adams skipped the primary. He’s running as an independent.The race's ultimate outcome could say something about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-primary-mayor-decision-notes-ff7234fa6a2a4259bb7f7c2b0900d5ba">what kind of leader</a>&nbsp;Democrats are looking for during President Donald Trump's second term.The vote takes place about four years after Cuomo, 67, resigned as governor following a sexual harassment scandal. Yet he has been the favorite throughout the race, with his deep experience, nearly universal name recognition, strong political connections and juggernaut fundraising apparatus.The party's progressive wing, meanwhile, has coalesced behind Mamdani, 33, a self-described democratic socialist. A relatively unknown state legislator when the contest began, Mamdani gained momentum by running a sharp campaign laser-focused on the city's high cost of living and secured endorsements from two of the country's foremost progressives, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders.The candidates made a final push out in the city earlier in the day, sweating it out with voters on a sizzling summer day in which temperatures reached the triple digits. While initial returns were being released after the polls closed at 9 p.m. Tuesday, a winner might not emerge for a week because of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nyc-ranked-choice-voting-explained-bdf80be2a079c8573b4571adfc6f4015">the city's ranked choice voting system</a>, which allows voters to list up to five candidates in order of preference. If a candidate is the first choice of a majority of voters, they win outright. If no candidate reaches that threshold, the tabulation of the rankings wouldn’t begin until July 1.The primary winner will go on to face incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, a Democrat who decided to run as an independent amid a public uproar over his indictment on corruption charges and the subsequent abandonment of the case by Trump's Justice Department. Republican&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/curtis-sliwa">Curtis Sliwa</a>, the founder of the Guardian Angels, will be on the ballot in the fall's general election. There is also a possibility that Cuomo runs on the November ballot as an independent candidate if he loses the primary.The mayoral primary’s two leading candidates — one a fresh-faced progressive and the other an older moderate — could be stand-ins for the larger Democratic Party’s ideological divide, though Cuomo’s scandal-scarred past adds a unique tinge to the narrative.The rest of the pack has struggled to gain recognition in a race where nearly every candidate has cast themselves as the person best positioned to challenge Trump's Republican agenda.Comptroller Brad Lander, a liberal city government stalwart, made a splash last week when he was arrested after linking arms with a man federal agents were trying to detain at an immigration court in Manhattan. It was unclear if that episode was enough to jump-start a campaign that had been failing to pick up speed behind Lander.Among the other candidates are City Council Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-new-york-city-queens-76fa94bfa7899d16ff469004c1b0b7ee">Adrienne Adams</a>, state Sen. Zellnor Myrie, hedge fund executive Whitney Tilson and former city Comptroller&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/scott-stringer">Scott Stringer</a>.Mamdani's energetic run has been hard not to notice.His army of young canvassers relentlessly knocked on doors throughout the city seeking support. Posters of his grinning mug were up on shop windows. You couldn't get on social media without seeing one of his well-produced videos pitching his vision — free buses, free child care, new apartments, a higher minimum wage and more, paid for by new taxes on rich people. He would be the city's first Indian American and first Muslim mayor.That youthful energy was apparent Tuesday evening, as both cautiously optimistic canvassers and ecstatic supporters lined the streets of Central Brooklyn, creating a party-like atmosphere that spread from poll sites into the surrounding neighborhoods.Outside his family’s Caribbean apothecary, Amani Kojo, a 23-year-old first-time voter, passed out iced tea to Mamdani canvassers, encouraging them to stay hydrated.“It’s 100 degrees outside and it's a vibe. New York City feels alive again,” Kojo said, raising a pile of Mamdani pamphlets. “It feels very electric seeing all the people around, the flyers, all the posts on my Instagram all day.”Cuomo and some other Democrats have cast Mamdani as unqualified. They say he doesn't have the management chops to wrangle the city's sprawling bureaucracy or handle crises. Critics have also taken aim at Mamdani's support for Palestinian human rights.In response, Mamdani has slammed Cuomo over his sexual harassment scandal and his handling of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic">coronavirus pandemic</a>.In one heated debate exchange, Cuomo rattled off a long list of what he saw as Mamdani's managerial shortcomings, arguing that his opponent, who has been in the state Assembly since 2021, has never dealt with Congress or unions and never overseen an infrastructure project. He added that Mamdani couldn't be relied upon to go toe-to-toe with Trump.Mamdani had a counter ready.“To Mr. Cuomo, I have never had to resign in disgrace,” he said.Cuomo&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/andrew-cuomo-resigns-17161f546bb83c32a337036ecf8d2a34">resigned in 2021</a>&nbsp;after a report commissioned by the state attorney general concluded that he had sexually harassed at least 11 women. He has always maintained that he didn't intentionally harass the women, saying he had simply fallen behind what was considered appropriate workplace conduct.During the campaign, he has become more aggressive in defending himself, framing the situation as a political hit job orchestrated by his enemies.The fresh scandal at City Hall involving Mayor Eric Adams, though, gave Cuomo a path to end his exile.

Zohran Mamdani declares victory in NYC's Democratic mayoral primary as Cuomo concedes

WOODSON COUNTY – The Yates Center Police Department reported to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) that Tammara Isaacs was located safely. The statewide Purple Alert is canceled.

A Purple Alert is used to assist in the location of missing adults suffering from a mental or cognitive disability.

WOODSON COUNTY&nbsp;– The Yates Center Police Department requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Purple Alert for a missing Yates Center woman.&nbsp; A Purple Alert is&nbsp;used to assist in the location of missing adults suffering from a mental or cognitive disability.

The whereabouts of 58-year-old Tammara Isaacs are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate her.

Isaacs was last seen Tuesday afternoon around 3 p.m. at her residence in Yates Center. On Wednesday morning, her car was missing from her residence and she was not there. She is believed to be driving a 2006 dark blue Chevy Malibu.

Isaacs is described as a white female who is 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighs around 120 pounds. She has blue eyes and blonde, medium length hair.

Isaacs was recently diagnosed with psychosis.

If you see Tammara Isaacs, please call 911 immediately. If you have other information about her whereabouts, please call the Woodson County Dispatch at (620) 625-8640.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750266032096.png" alt=" Isaacs photo Yates Center police" />
 <figcaption> Isaacs photo Yates Center police</figcaption>
 </figure>WOODSON COUNTY – The Yates Center Police Department reported to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) that Tammara Isaacs was located safely. The statewide Purple Alert is canceled.A Purple Alert is used to assist in the location of missing adults suffering from a mental or cognitive disability.-----------WOODSON COUNTY&nbsp;– The Yates Center Police Department requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Purple Alert for a missing Yates Center woman.&nbsp; A Purple Alert is&nbsp;used to assist in the location of missing adults suffering from a mental or cognitive disability.The whereabouts of 58-year-old Tammara Isaacs are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate her.Isaacs was last seen Tuesday afternoon around 3 p.m. at her residence in Yates Center. On Wednesday morning, her car was missing from her residence and she was not there. She is believed to be driving a 2006 dark blue Chevy Malibu.Isaacs is described as a white female who is 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighs around 120 pounds. She has blue eyes and blonde, medium length hair.Isaacs was recently diagnosed with psychosis.If you see Tammara Isaacs, please call 911 immediately. If you have other information about her whereabouts, please call the Woodson County Dispatch at (620) 625-8640.

KBI: Purple Alert for missing Kansas woman canceled

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for available talent to take part in this month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 25.

“As businesses continue to expand and invest across every region of our state — we are seeing more career opportunities than ever before being created here in Kansas,” Toland said. “Anyone seeking a new role or looking to jumpstart their career is encouraged to attend and connect with some of Kansas’ best companies — and learn about the wealth of opportunities out there right now.”

The Virtual Job Fair format allows anyone searching for a state position to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.

This month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating agencies and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as they might be asked to engage in an interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodations by contacting their nearest workforce center at 877-509-6757 prior to the event.

Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fapp.premiervirtual.com%2Fevents%2Ffa2ef5bb-361d-42d8-bd97-49d4e24295d2%2Fkansasworks-virtual-statewide-job-fair-june-25th,-2025/1/0101019779f81cbf-b7adfb00-a640-45a3-89e1-227907d88392-000000/ieMUBgfALqHWIMZPxoQrk0AHgsOFjBcO7z1E7zvFPR0=409">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725635384959.jpg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of CommerceTOPEKA&nbsp;– Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for available talent to take part in this month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 25.“As businesses continue to expand and invest across every region of our state — we are seeing more career opportunities than ever before being created here in Kansas,” Toland said. “Anyone seeking a new role or looking to jumpstart their career is encouraged to attend and connect with some of Kansas’ best companies — and learn about the wealth of opportunities out there right now.”The Virtual Job Fair format allows anyone searching for a state position to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.This month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating agencies and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as they might be asked to engage in an interview.Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodations by contacting their nearest workforce center at 877-509-6757 prior to the event.Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fapp.premiervirtual.com%2Fevents%2Ffa2ef5bb-361d-42d8-bd97-49d4e24295d2%2Fkansasworks-virtual-statewide-job-fair-june-25th,-2025/1/0101019779f81cbf-b7adfb00-a640-45a3-89e1-227907d88392-000000/ieMUBgfALqHWIMZPxoQrk0AHgsOFjBcO7z1E7zvFPR0=409">here</a>.

KANSASWORKS hosts June Virtual Job Fair for open positions across Kansas

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has temporarily blocked a federal judge’s order that directed President Donald Trump to return control of National Guard troops to California after he deployed them there following protests in Los Angeles over immigration raids. The court said it would hold a hearing on the matter on Tuesday. The ruling came only hours after a federal judge’s order was to take effect at noon Friday. Earlier Thursday, U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer ruled the Guard deployment was illegal and both violated the Tenth Amendment and exceeded Trump’s statutory authority. The order applied only to the National Guard troops and not Marines who were also deployed to the LA protests.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem pledged Thursday to carry on with the Trump administration’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/insurrection-act-trump-troops-newsom-military-national-guard-a842f79e1c0e244039be274a6f266a7a">immigration crackdown</a>&nbsp;despite waves of unrest across the U.S. Hours later a federal judge issued a temporary restraining order directing President Donald Trump to return control of the Guard to California.

The judge's order, which takes effect at noon Friday, said the deployment of the Guard was illegal and both violated the Tenth Amendment and exceeded his statutory authority.

The White House had no immediate comment on the ruling, but the federal government immediately filed an appeal with the Ninth Circuit court.

It was not immediately clear how the decision would change the situation on the ground.

Gov. Gavin Newsom had asked the judge to put an emergency stop to troops helping to carry out immigration raids.

The developments unfolded as cities nationwide&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-crackdown-us-protests-049a611d47d0fc7656731e4f4c714e93">braced for major demonstrations</a>&nbsp;against Trump over the weekend, and their leaders pleaded with residents to protest peacefully.

Noem said the immigration raids that fueled the protests would move forward, saying agents have thousands of targets.

“This is only going to continue until we have peace on the streets of Los Angeles,” she said during a news conference that was interrupted by shouting from U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla, a California Democrat who was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alex-padilla-noem-immigration-protest-california-f67d220a0254473c53c16aa96f554239">forcibly removed from the event</a>.

Newsom has warned that the military intervention is part of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-gavin-newsom-california-immigration-protests-a6467fcd3fa66c945ac7c15c40362972">broader effort by Trump</a>&nbsp;to overturn norms at the heart of the nation’s democracy. He also said that sending National Guard troops on the raids has further&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/immigration-protests-los-angeles-6-11-2025">inflamed tensions</a>&nbsp;in Los Angeles, where large and sometimes volatile protests have broken out since the crackdown began nearly a week ago.

So far, the protests have been centered mostly in downtown LA near City Hall and a federal detention center where some immigrants are being held. Much of the sprawling city has been spared from the protests.

The Trump administration on Wednesday called Newsom's lawsuit a “crass political stunt endangering American lives.”

Demonstrations have picked up across the U.S., with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-protests-arrests-austin-aa726c826047f8d7eb4091acc8929b8e">protests emerging</a>&nbsp;in more than a dozen major cities. On Wednesday, police in Seattle used pepper spray to clear out protesters, and officers in Denver used smoke and pepper balls to control a crowd.

Police in riot gear — many on horseback — charged at a group of protesters Wednesday night in LA just before the start of the second night of the city’s downtown curfew. The officers struck some demonstrators with wooden rods and later fired crowd-control projectiles, and there were a handful of arrests.

Mayor Karen Bass said during a news conference Thursday that the previous night's arrests were for more minor infractions like unlawful assembly and curfew violations. She said the curfew would be in place again and she hopes continuing it a few more days sends the message that “we are serious.”

The immigration agents conducting the raids in LA are “putting together a model and a blueprint” for other communities, Noem said.

She pledged that federal authorities “are not going away,” even though, she said, officers have been hit with rocks and bricks and assaulted. She said people with criminal records who are in the country illegally and violent protesters will “face consequences.”

“Just because you think you’re here as a citizen, or because you’re a member of a certain group or you’re not a citizen, it doesn’t mean that you’re going to be protected and not face consequences from the laws that this country stands for," she said.

Noem criticized the California senator's interruption, calling it "inappropriate.” A statement from her agency said Noem and Padilla met after the news conference for about 15 minutes, but it also chided him for “disrespectful political theater.”

Padilla said later that he was demanding answers about the “increasingly extreme immigration enforcement actions” and only wanted to ask Noem a question. He said he was handcuffed but not arrested.

“If this is how this administration responds to a senator with a question, I can only imagine what they are doing to farm workers, to cooks, to day laborers throughout the Los Angeles community,” he said.

The Trump administration has rapidly expanded military deployments to Los Angeles over the past week and has said it is willing to send troops to other cities to assist with immigration enforcement and controlling disturbances — in line with what Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-mass-deportations-latino-voters-ec64f85e3633c9c7a8a247eaf9feb64f">promised during last year’s campaign</a>.

Some 2,000 Guard soldiers are in the nation's second-largest city and are soon to be joined by 2,000 more, along with about 700 Marines, said Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, who's in charge of the operation.

About 500 of the Guard troops deployed to the Los Angeles protests have been trained to accompany agents on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-court-arrests-ice-deportation-99d822cdc93ae7dc26026c27895d5ea1">immigration operations</a>, the commander said Wednesday. The Guard has the authority to temporarily detain people who attack officers, but any arrests must be made by law enforcement.

While some troops have already gone on such missions, he said it’s too early to say if that will continue even after the protests die down.

“We are expecting a ramp-up,” Sherman said, noting that protests across the nation were being discussed. “I’m focused right here in LA, what’s going on right here. But you know, I think we’re, we’re very concerned.”

States face questions on deploying troops

With more demonstrations&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/no-kings-protest-things-to-know-trump-8d37f2bb2bf20ab503205b277e92b885">expected over the weekend</a>, and the possibility that Trump could send troops to other states for immigration enforcement,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/newsom-abbott-governors-national-guard-trump-1848ac586dad24ac83a4d72845775688">governors are weighing what to do</a>.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, has put&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-protests-texas-national-guard-4f8ffc07788515c0d0e7ae40c7980565">5,000 National Guard members</a>&nbsp;on standby in cities where demonstrations are planned. In other Republican-controlled states, governors have not said when or how they’re planning to deploy troops for protests.

A group of Democratic governors earlier this week signed a statement calling Trump’s deployments “an alarming abuse of power.”

“Illinois follows the law. But let me be clear: We expect the federal government to follow the law too,” Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker said Thursday during a Capitol Hill hearing on state immigration policies.

Hundreds have been arrested in LA protests

Los Angeles police have made about 470 arrests since Saturday, the vast majority of which were for failing to leave the area at the request of law enforcement, according to the police department.

There have been a handful of more serious charges, including for assault against police officers and for possession of a Molotov cocktail and a gun. Nine police officers have been hurt, mostly with minor injures. Some were transported to a hospital and released.

Rodriguez reported from San Francisco and Seewer from Toledo, Ohio. Associated Press writers Julie Watson in San Diego, Jesse Bedayn in Denver, and Jim Vertuno in Austin, Texas, and Hallie Golden in Seattle contributed.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order Thursday directing President Donald Trump to return control of the National Guard to California.

The order, which takes effect at noon Friday, said the deployment of the Guard was illegal and both violated the Tenth Amendment and exceeded Trump's statutory authority.

The White House had no immediate comment on the ruling.

U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer said Trump overstepped his bounds in ordering the deployment of roughly 4,000 National Guard members to Los Angeles after protests erupted over the immigration crackdown.

It was not immediately clear how that would change the situation on the ground.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom sued to block the Guard’s deployment against his wishes. California later filed an emergency motion asking the judge to block the Guard from assisting with immigration raids.

He argued that the troops were originally deployed to protect federal buildings and wanted the court to block the troops from helping protect immigration agents during the raids, saying that involving the Guard would only escalate tensions and promote civil unrest.

In a broad ruling, the judge determined Trump had not properly called the Guard up in the first place.

Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, speaking in an interview with The Associated Press and one other media outlet, said that as of Wednesday about 500 of the Guard troops have been trained to accompany agents on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-court-arrests-ice-deportation-99d822cdc93ae7dc26026c27895d5ea1">immigration operations</a>. Photos of Guard soldiers providing security for the agents have already been circulated by immigration officials.

Sherman is commander of Task Force 51, which is overseeing the Guard troops and Marines sent to Los Angeles.

Earlier in the day Breyer said he intended to rule quickly.

“This country was founded in response to a monarch, and the Constitution is a document of limitations. I’m trying to figure out where the lines are drawn,” the judge said before a packed courtroom.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749519661081.png" alt="Photo Homeland Security" />
 <figcaption>Photo Homeland Security</figcaption>
 </figure>SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has temporarily blocked a federal judge’s order that directed President Donald Trump to return control of National Guard troops to California after he deployed them there following protests in Los Angeles over immigration raids. The court said it would hold a hearing on the matter on Tuesday. The ruling came only hours after a federal judge’s order was to take effect at noon Friday. Earlier Thursday, U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer ruled the Guard deployment was illegal and both violated the Tenth Amendment and exceeded Trump’s statutory authority. The order applied only to the National Guard troops and not Marines who were also deployed to the LA protests.------------LOS ANGELES (AP) — Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem pledged Thursday to carry on with the Trump administration’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/insurrection-act-trump-troops-newsom-military-national-guard-a842f79e1c0e244039be274a6f266a7a">immigration crackdown</a>&nbsp;despite waves of unrest across the U.S. Hours later a federal judge issued a temporary restraining order directing President Donald Trump to return control of the Guard to California.The judge's order, which takes effect at noon Friday, said the deployment of the Guard was illegal and both violated the Tenth Amendment and exceeded his statutory authority.The White House had no immediate comment on the ruling, but the federal government immediately filed an appeal with the Ninth Circuit court.It was not immediately clear how the decision would change the situation on the ground.Gov. Gavin Newsom had asked the judge to put an emergency stop to troops helping to carry out immigration raids.The developments unfolded as cities nationwide&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-crackdown-us-protests-049a611d47d0fc7656731e4f4c714e93">braced for major demonstrations</a>&nbsp;against Trump over the weekend, and their leaders pleaded with residents to protest peacefully.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749779571015.png" alt="DHS Secretary Kristi Noem during Thursday's press conference in LA-image DHS video" />
 <figcaption>DHS Secretary Kristi Noem during Thursday's press conference in LA-image DHS video</figcaption>
 </figure>Noem said the immigration raids that fueled the protests would move forward, saying agents have thousands of targets.“This is only going to continue until we have peace on the streets of Los Angeles,” she said during a news conference that was interrupted by shouting from U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla, a California Democrat who was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alex-padilla-noem-immigration-protest-california-f67d220a0254473c53c16aa96f554239">forcibly removed from the event</a>.Newsom has warned that the military intervention is part of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-gavin-newsom-california-immigration-protests-a6467fcd3fa66c945ac7c15c40362972">broader effort by Trump</a>&nbsp;to overturn norms at the heart of the nation’s democracy. He also said that sending National Guard troops on the raids has further&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/immigration-protests-los-angeles-6-11-2025">inflamed tensions</a>&nbsp;in Los Angeles, where large and sometimes volatile protests have broken out since the crackdown began nearly a week ago.So far, the protests have been centered mostly in downtown LA near City Hall and a federal detention center where some immigrants are being held. Much of the sprawling city has been spared from the protests.The Trump administration on Wednesday called Newsom's lawsuit a “crass political stunt endangering American lives.”Demonstrations have picked up across the U.S., with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-protests-arrests-austin-aa726c826047f8d7eb4091acc8929b8e">protests emerging</a>&nbsp;in more than a dozen major cities. On Wednesday, police in Seattle used pepper spray to clear out protesters, and officers in Denver used smoke and pepper balls to control a crowd.Police in riot gear — many on horseback — charged at a group of protesters Wednesday night in LA just before the start of the second night of the city’s downtown curfew. The officers struck some demonstrators with wooden rods and later fired crowd-control projectiles, and there were a handful of arrests.Mayor Karen Bass said during a news conference Thursday that the previous night's arrests were for more minor infractions like unlawful assembly and curfew violations. She said the curfew would be in place again and she hopes continuing it a few more days sends the message that “we are serious.”<h2>Noem calls action in LA a blueprint</h2>The immigration agents conducting the raids in LA are “putting together a model and a blueprint” for other communities, Noem said.She pledged that federal authorities “are not going away,” even though, she said, officers have been hit with rocks and bricks and assaulted. She said people with criminal records who are in the country illegally and violent protesters will “face consequences.”“Just because you think you’re here as a citizen, or because you’re a member of a certain group or you’re not a citizen, it doesn’t mean that you’re going to be protected and not face consequences from the laws that this country stands for," she said.Noem criticized the California senator's interruption, calling it "inappropriate.” A statement from her agency said Noem and Padilla met after the news conference for about 15 minutes, but it also chided him for “disrespectful political theater.”Padilla said later that he was demanding answers about the “increasingly extreme immigration enforcement actions” and only wanted to ask Noem a question. He said he was handcuffed but not arrested.“If this is how this administration responds to a senator with a question, I can only imagine what they are doing to farm workers, to cooks, to day laborers throughout the Los Angeles community,” he said.<h2>Military involvement escalates in LA</h2>The Trump administration has rapidly expanded military deployments to Los Angeles over the past week and has said it is willing to send troops to other cities to assist with immigration enforcement and controlling disturbances — in line with what Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-mass-deportations-latino-voters-ec64f85e3633c9c7a8a247eaf9feb64f">promised during last year’s campaign</a>.Some 2,000 Guard soldiers are in the nation's second-largest city and are soon to be joined by 2,000 more, along with about 700 Marines, said Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, who's in charge of the operation.About 500 of the Guard troops deployed to the Los Angeles protests have been trained to accompany agents on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-court-arrests-ice-deportation-99d822cdc93ae7dc26026c27895d5ea1">immigration operations</a>, the commander said Wednesday. The Guard has the authority to temporarily detain people who attack officers, but any arrests must be made by law enforcement.While some troops have already gone on such missions, he said it’s too early to say if that will continue even after the protests die down.“We are expecting a ramp-up,” Sherman said, noting that protests across the nation were being discussed. “I’m focused right here in LA, what’s going on right here. But you know, I think we’re, we’re very concerned.”<h2>States face questions on deploying troops</h2>With more demonstrations&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/no-kings-protest-things-to-know-trump-8d37f2bb2bf20ab503205b277e92b885">expected over the weekend</a>, and the possibility that Trump could send troops to other states for immigration enforcement,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/newsom-abbott-governors-national-guard-trump-1848ac586dad24ac83a4d72845775688">governors are weighing what to do</a>.Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, has put&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-protests-texas-national-guard-4f8ffc07788515c0d0e7ae40c7980565">5,000 National Guard members</a>&nbsp;on standby in cities where demonstrations are planned. In other Republican-controlled states, governors have not said when or how they’re planning to deploy troops for protests.A group of Democratic governors earlier this week signed a statement calling Trump’s deployments “an alarming abuse of power.”“Illinois follows the law. But let me be clear: We expect the federal government to follow the law too,” Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker said Thursday during a Capitol Hill hearing on state immigration policies.<h2>Hundreds have been arrested in LA protests</h2>Los Angeles police have made about 470 arrests since Saturday, the vast majority of which were for failing to leave the area at the request of law enforcement, according to the police department.There have been a handful of more serious charges, including for assault against police officers and for possession of a Molotov cocktail and a gun. Nine police officers have been hurt, mostly with minor injures. Some were transported to a hospital and released.___Rodriguez reported from San Francisco and Seewer from Toledo, Ohio. Associated Press writers Julie Watson in San Diego, Jesse Bedayn in Denver, and Jim Vertuno in Austin, Texas, and Hallie Golden in Seattle contributed.----------------------------SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order Thursday directing President Donald Trump to return control of the National Guard to California.The order, which takes effect at noon Friday, said the deployment of the Guard was illegal and both violated the Tenth Amendment and exceeded Trump's statutory authority.The White House had no immediate comment on the ruling.U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer said Trump overstepped his bounds in ordering the deployment of roughly 4,000 National Guard members to Los Angeles after protests erupted over the immigration crackdown.It was not immediately clear how that would change the situation on the ground.California Gov. Gavin Newsom sued to block the Guard’s deployment against his wishes. California later filed an emergency motion asking the judge to block the Guard from assisting with immigration raids.He argued that the troops were originally deployed to protect federal buildings and wanted the court to block the troops from helping protect immigration agents during the raids, saying that involving the Guard would only escalate tensions and promote civil unrest.In a broad ruling, the judge determined Trump had not properly called the Guard up in the first place.Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, speaking in an interview with The Associated Press and one other media outlet, said that as of Wednesday about 500 of the Guard troops have been trained to accompany agents on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-court-arrests-ice-deportation-99d822cdc93ae7dc26026c27895d5ea1">immigration operations</a>. Photos of Guard soldiers providing security for the agents have already been circulated by immigration officials.Sherman is commander of Task Force 51, which is overseeing the Guard troops and Marines sent to Los Angeles.Earlier in the day Breyer said he intended to rule quickly.“This country was founded in response to a monarch, and the Constitution is a document of limitations. I’m trying to figure out where the lines are drawn,” the judge said before a packed courtroom.

Appeals court temporarily blocks judge's ruling to return control of National Guard to California

The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin a chip seal on portions of U.S. 24 in Rooks and Osborne counties the week of June 16.

Work will take place on approximately 19 miles of U.S. 24 starting near Pleasant Street in Stockton and ending just east of Alton. Traffic will be reduced to one lane in areas where crews are actively working and directed by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should plan for delays of 15 minutes or less during daylight hours.

KDOT expects the project to be completed in July, conditions permitting.

Circle C Paving, of Goddard, is the project’s primary contractor with a total contract cost of approximately $846,000. For more information, please contact KDOT Area Construction Manager Dan Moore at 785-302-6205 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:daniel.moore@ks.gov">daniel.moore@ks.gov</a>. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739902891919.jpeg" alt="Kansas Department of Transportation" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Department of Transportation</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin a chip seal on portions of U.S. 24 in Rooks and Osborne counties the week of June 16.Work will take place on approximately 19 miles of U.S. 24 starting near Pleasant Street in Stockton and ending just east of Alton. Traffic will be reduced to one lane in areas where crews are actively working and directed by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should plan for delays of 15 minutes or less during daylight hours.KDOT expects the project to be completed in July, conditions permitting.Circle C Paving, of Goddard, is the project’s primary contractor with a total contract cost of approximately $846,000. For more information, please contact KDOT Area Construction Manager Dan Moore at 785-302-6205 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:daniel.moore@ks.gov">daniel.moore@ks.gov</a>. &nbsp;

Chip seal planned on U.S. 24 in Rooks, Osborne counties

MAYETTA — We are thrilled to announce country music star Gary Allan is performing at our Great Lakes Ballroom on September 4 at 7 p.m.! 

Writer and frontman to three platinum-certified albums, Allan’s stirring brand of country continues to excite. With his signature rasp and soulful lyrics, Gary Allan’s been writing and performing country songs for as long as he can remember. 

Signing with Decca Records in the mid-'90s and releasing his debut album Used Heart for Sale in 1996, Allan would quickly see success led by hit single “Her Man.” In 1999, Allan’s third studio album Smoke Rings in the Dark served as a breakout hit to the mainstream country music scene. 

Over the years, Allan’s albums have earned three platinum certifications and four gold certifications. Coming off the heels of his tenth studio album Ruthless, which peaked at #8 on the U.S. Country charts, Allan’s focused storytelling continues to compel, entertain, and certainly honky-tonk. 

We look forward to hosting you as Gary Allan performs at our Great Lakes Ballroom on September 4! 

For more information, visit Prairie Band Casino &amp; Resort’s website, hover over the shows tab, and click “Epic Entertainment.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749737252263.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Prairie Band Casino &amp; ResortMAYETTA — We are thrilled to announce country music star Gary Allan is performing at our Great Lakes Ballroom on September 4 at 7 p.m.! Writer and frontman to three platinum-certified albums, Allan’s stirring brand of country continues to excite. With his signature rasp and soulful lyrics, Gary Allan’s been writing and performing country songs for as long as he can remember. Signing with Decca Records in the mid-'90s and releasing his debut album Used Heart for Sale in 1996, Allan would quickly see success led by hit single “Her Man.” In 1999, Allan’s third studio album Smoke Rings in the Dark served as a breakout hit to the mainstream country music scene. Over the years, Allan’s albums have earned three platinum certifications and four gold certifications. Coming off the heels of his tenth studio album Ruthless, which peaked at #8 on the U.S. Country charts, Allan’s focused storytelling continues to compel, entertain, and certainly honky-tonk. We look forward to hosting you as Gary Allan performs at our Great Lakes Ballroom on September 4! For more information, visit Prairie Band Casino &amp; Resort’s website, hover over the shows tab, and click “Epic Entertainment.”&nbsp;

Gary Allan to performing live at Prairie Band Casino & Resort

TOPEKA — Governor Laura Kelly, in collaboration with the Kansas Department of Commerce, announced a new web page for federal workers seeking employment in Kansas. The landing page provides an overview of the state's current job opportunities, quick links to programs that aid eligible Kansas employees, access to the State of Kansas job portal, and other helpful tools for jobseekers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“As many federal employees find themselves in need of new opportunities, I’m excited to launch a web page that showcases all the great career opportunities Kansas has to offer,” Kelly said.&nbsp;“With highly rated schools, low cost of living, and a competitive housing market, our state is ready to welcome new employees and their families with open arms.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The web page specifically highlights the Rural Opportunity Zone program, which offers Student Loan Repayment Assistance and/or 100% State Income Tax Credit for 95 counties across the state.

“Kansas is an incredible place,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland.&nbsp;“Since 2019, we’ve been enhancing our communities through quality-of-life perks and elevating our economy by ushering in new and innovative business opportunities — all with the purpose of welcoming folks from across the country to live the good life here in Kansas. If you’re a displaced federal worker — or just someone seeking new horizons — look no further than the Sunflower State.”

The web page can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://lovekansas.com/">Love, Kansas&nbsp;site</a>.&nbsp;Love, Kansas&nbsp;is the state’s talent recruitment campaign that highlights why Kansas is an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family. This marketing initiative, which was approved with bipartisan support of the Kansas Legislature, has a special emphasis on “boomerangs,” or individuals with previous ties to Kansas.

The new web page can be found&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Flovekansas.com%2Ffederalworkers%2F/1/0101019722ad1215-4a993863-f427-411f-b0bd-c1546eb4ad4b-000000/il3KECxmTW2wfz_vnHsz93COlu8qQq9ipBusx5xnjV4=407">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749049988678.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Office of GovernorTOPEKA — Governor Laura Kelly, in collaboration with the Kansas Department of Commerce, announced a new web page for federal workers seeking employment in Kansas. The landing page provides an overview of the state's current job opportunities, quick links to programs that aid eligible Kansas employees, access to the State of Kansas job portal, and other helpful tools for jobseekers.&nbsp;&nbsp;“As many federal employees find themselves in need of new opportunities, I’m excited to launch a web page that showcases all the great career opportunities Kansas has to offer,” Kelly said.&nbsp;“With highly rated schools, low cost of living, and a competitive housing market, our state is ready to welcome new employees and their families with open arms.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The web page specifically highlights the Rural Opportunity Zone program, which offers Student Loan Repayment Assistance and/or 100% State Income Tax Credit for 95 counties across the state.“Kansas is an incredible place,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland.&nbsp;“Since 2019, we’ve been enhancing our communities through quality-of-life perks and elevating our economy by ushering in new and innovative business opportunities — all with the purpose of welcoming folks from across the country to live the good life here in Kansas. If you’re a displaced federal worker — or just someone seeking new horizons — look no further than the Sunflower State.”The web page can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://lovekansas.com/">Love, Kansas&nbsp;site</a>.&nbsp;Love, Kansas&nbsp;is the state’s talent recruitment campaign that highlights why Kansas is an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family. This marketing initiative, which was approved with bipartisan support of the Kansas Legislature, has a special emphasis on “boomerangs,” or individuals with previous ties to Kansas.The new web page can be found&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Flovekansas.com%2Ffederalworkers%2F/1/0101019722ad1215-4a993863-f427-411f-b0bd-c1546eb4ad4b-000000/il3KECxmTW2wfz_vnHsz93COlu8qQq9ipBusx5xnjV4=407">here</a>.

New web page for federal employees seeking job opportunities in Kansas

TOPEKA—The Kansas judicial branch has launched a new virtual self-help center for people involved in court cases who are not represented by an attorney.

The website,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://go.kansascourts.gov/l/ZajWJdiI7D_H1v-2HxN8m4hd2mTF0-ToUkkWNOEQiPg">self-help.kscourts.gov</a>, shares information, forms, and tools to help Kansans with district court processes.

“Our goal was to create a reliable electronic resource for people who are navigating the court system on their own,” said Sarah Hoskinson, chief of access to justice at the Office of Judicial Administration. “It’s to help people who don’t understand or aren’t familiar with court processes. It also helps district courts that serve people who come to court without an attorney.”

The virtual self-help center homepage has an “I need help with” section that features in-demand resources according to input from the legal community, district court clerks, and data from searches on the kscourts.gov website. Links connect visitors with court forms, where to pay a fine or fee, how to find a court hearing, where to conduct legal research, and more. 

If someone needs information about a specific area of law, Hoskinson said the Topics section quickly connects them to key resources, including videos, forms, court timelines, and agencies. “Bringing these key resources together gives Kansans a central source of information about court processes,” she said. “With general web searches, you must sift through results from many sources that may be out of date, inaccurate, or both.”

The online self-help center also benefits district courts, especially those in smaller, rural counties.

“Some district courts maintain their own self-help information, but only if they have staff to manage it,” Hoskinson said. “The statewide virtual self-help center may fill an unmet need for some district courts, while creating efficiencies for others.”

Nyla Rogers, clerk of the Lyon County District Court, said the center will help her court provide essential information and guidance to the public. “The virtual self-help center video guides are great at helping the public learn the processes for their specific situations to help them file the appropriate court documents,” Rogers said.

Joni Wilson, court administrator in the 18th Judicial District (Sedgwick County), said the center supports both the public and court staff helping them.

“People can’t always take time off work to visit the courthouse to get help with their case,” Wilson said. “The center allows our court to help the public no matter the time of day or day of the week.”

Hoskinson said her team gathered information and resources from the Supreme Court Access to Justice Committee and the judges and court employees who serve as local access to justice liaisons in every judicial district. She said committee members and court liaisons used their experience with access to justice issues to organize the resources and identify areas that needed updates or new resources. 

Based on that work, the Information Services team in the Office of Judicial Administration designed and built the online self-help center. “We shared the first version of the virtual self-help center with others in the legal community, district court staff, and key Supreme Court committees to get their feedback,” Hoskinson said. “Their knowledge and experience in the different topical areas helped us refine and organize the content.” 

Chief Judge Kevin Berens of the 15th Judicial District (Cheyenne, Logan, Rawlins, Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, and Wallace counties) chairs the Access to Justice Committee.&nbsp;

He noted that publishing the online self-help center has long been a committee goal. “The committee discussed the need for this resource for some time. The Office of Judicial Administration Information Services team helped us turn that vision into reality. It is a practical and important resource for self-represented parties and other court users,” Berens said. 

Berens also credits support from the Supreme Court Rural Justice Initiative Committee, Ad Hoc Committee on Best Practices for Eviction Proceedings, Advisory Council on Dispute Resolution, and Language Access Committee. “This was a collaborative effort among many members in our legal community, and, with their continued help, we hope to improve this resource in the coming years,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608062933046.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Courts News TOPEKA—The Kansas judicial branch has launched a new virtual self-help center for people involved in court cases who are not represented by an attorney.The website,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://go.kansascourts.gov/l/ZajWJdiI7D_H1v-2HxN8m4hd2mTF0-ToUkkWNOEQiPg">self-help.kscourts.gov</a>, shares information, forms, and tools to help Kansans with district court processes.“Our goal was to create a reliable electronic resource for people who are navigating the court system on their own,” said Sarah Hoskinson, chief of access to justice at the Office of Judicial Administration. “It’s to help people who don’t understand or aren’t familiar with court processes. It also helps district courts that serve people who come to court without an attorney.”Benefits for court usersThe virtual self-help center homepage has an “I need help with” section that features in-demand resources according to input from the legal community, district court clerks, and data from searches on the kscourts.gov website. Links connect visitors with court forms, where to pay a fine or fee, how to find a court hearing, where to conduct legal research, and more. If someone needs information about a specific area of law, Hoskinson said the Topics section quickly connects them to key resources, including videos, forms, court timelines, and agencies. “Bringing these key resources together gives Kansans a central source of information about court processes,” she said. “With general web searches, you must sift through results from many sources that may be out of date, inaccurate, or both.”Efficiencies for district courtsThe online self-help center also benefits district courts, especially those in smaller, rural counties.“Some district courts maintain their own self-help information, but only if they have staff to manage it,” Hoskinson said. “The statewide virtual self-help center may fill an unmet need for some district courts, while creating efficiencies for others.”Nyla Rogers, clerk of the Lyon County District Court, said the center will help her court provide essential information and guidance to the public. “The virtual self-help center video guides are great at helping the public learn the processes for their specific situations to help them file the appropriate court documents,” Rogers said.Joni Wilson, court administrator in the 18th Judicial District (Sedgwick County), said the center supports both the public and court staff helping them.“People can’t always take time off work to visit the courthouse to get help with their case,” Wilson said. “The center allows our court to help the public no matter the time of day or day of the week.”Building the siteHoskinson said her team gathered information and resources from the Supreme Court Access to Justice Committee and the judges and court employees who serve as local access to justice liaisons in every judicial district. She said committee members and court liaisons used their experience with access to justice issues to organize the resources and identify areas that needed updates or new resources. Based on that work, the Information Services team in the Office of Judicial Administration designed and built the online self-help center. “We shared the first version of the virtual self-help center with others in the legal community, district court staff, and key Supreme Court committees to get their feedback,” Hoskinson said. “Their knowledge and experience in the different topical areas helped us refine and organize the content.” Chief Judge Kevin Berens of the 15th Judicial District (Cheyenne, Logan, Rawlins, Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, and Wallace counties) chairs the Access to Justice Committee.&nbsp;He noted that publishing the online self-help center has long been a committee goal. “The committee discussed the need for this resource for some time. The Office of Judicial Administration Information Services team helped us turn that vision into reality. It is a practical and important resource for self-represented parties and other court users,” Berens said. Berens also credits support from the Supreme Court Rural Justice Initiative Committee, Ad Hoc Committee on Best Practices for Eviction Proceedings, Advisory Council on Dispute Resolution, and Language Access Committee. “This was a collaborative effort among many members in our legal community, and, with their continued help, we hope to improve this resource in the coming years,” he said.

New virtual self-help center connects Kansans with legal information, resources

Open a browser on your mobile device and visit the website at <a href="https://hayspost.com">https://hayspost.com</a>.&nbsp; Add it to the Home screen on your mobile device for the best possible experience.&nbsp; Here’s a screenshot that shows you how:

Open a browser on your mobile device and visit the website at <a href="https://hayspost.com">https://hayspost.com</a>.&nbsp; Add it to the Home screen on your mobile device for the best possible experience.&nbsp; Here’s a screenshot that shows you how:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722009103461.png" alt="Hays Post.png" />
 <figcaption>Hays Post.png</figcaption>
 </figure>

How to get full Hays Post experience on your mobile

ELLIS COUNTY —The suspect was captured at a motel in Ellis, Kansas on Tuesday.

KANSAS CITY, Kan.&nbsp;– A reward is now being offered in the search for a suspect who shot and critically injured a Kansas City area police officer on Sunday night.

You MUST submit your tip info through our program to be eligible to receive the Up To $10K Cash Reward for any info that leads to his arrest. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kcmetrocrime?__cft__[0]=AZXCAvmwh91WktF7Ispkq5kKVW3Hto-MVUDhBQD1kSBSAou-NOOReUt4P-0NJRrVx0JEhqGA-XOkfVESV0ZTlywtwmGWZ5llm8r22dOyxcTFj9jShlfZKFNaZ75EBPdIYTG5V3don8U6Ld8kH2sShPBI&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas City Metropolitan Crime Commission</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/kcpolice?__cft__[0]=AZXCAvmwh91WktF7Ispkq5kKVW3Hto-MVUDhBQD1kSBSAou-NOOReUt4P-0NJRrVx0JEhqGA-XOkfVESV0ZTlywtwmGWZ5llm8r22dOyxcTFj9jShlfZKFNaZ75EBPdIYTG5V3don8U6Ld8kH2sShPBI&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas City Missouri Police Department</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/LSPolice?__cft__[0]=AZXCAvmwh91WktF7Ispkq5kKVW3Hto-MVUDhBQD1kSBSAou-NOOReUt4P-0NJRrVx0JEhqGA-XOkfVESV0ZTlywtwmGWZ5llm8r22dOyxcTFj9jShlfZKFNaZ75EBPdIYTG5V3don8U6Ld8kH2sShPBI&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Lee's Summit Missouri Police Department</a>

The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) issued the blue alert Monday morning trying to locate a suspect wanted in related to the shooting. The alert was later extended into Kansas.

Authorities are looking for Thomas Eugene Tolbert, 27. Tolbert is a black male, around 240 pounds, and is 6 foot 2 inches tall with brown eyes and black hair. At the time he was last seen, he was wearing a black top with a hood, and black shorts.

He is armed with a handgun and considered dangerous.

Around 11 p.m, Sunday, June 1, law enforcement responded to a domestic disturbance at 3560 SW Hollywood Drive in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. After a short foot pursuit between Tolbert and officers, Tolbert shot a Lee’s Summit police officer, seriously injuring him.

Tolbert left the scene in a vehicle that has since been recovered in Grandview, Missouri, but Tolbert remains on the loose.

A wireless emergency alert was issued in several Kansas City metro counties on the Kansas side.

Anyone who sees Tolbert should immediately call 911. Any other information about his whereabouts should be reported at 1-800-KS-CRIME.

JACKSON COUNTY—A police officer was injured in a shooting while investigating a domestic disturbance and the search for the suspect identified as 27-year-old Thomas Tolbert continues.

Just after 11:00 p.m. Sunday, police&nbsp; were dispatched to the 3500 block of SW Hollywood Drive in Lee's Summit on the report of a domestic disturbance, according to a media release from police.

 As the first officer arrived on scene in the apartment complex; and while waiting for his assisting officer, the officer observed a male subject running from the scene. 

 The officer chased the suspect on foot and quickly advised via the radio that shots had been fired.  No shots were fired by the officer. The officer was struck multiple times. 

 Investigators are working with area law enforcement partners to track Tolbert.

There is no perceived danger in the area of the original crime scene. Multiple witnesses gave a statement that the suspect fled the area in a vehicle.  The officer was transported to an area trauma center with serious injuries.

ELLIS COUNTY —The suspect was captured at a motel in Ellis, Kansas on Tuesday.----------KANSAS CITY, Kan.&nbsp;– A reward is now being offered in the search for a suspect who shot and critically injured a Kansas City area police officer on Sunday night.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748945531441.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>You MUST submit your tip info through our program to be eligible to receive the Up To $10K Cash Reward for any info that leads to his arrest. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kcmetrocrime?__cft__[0]=AZXCAvmwh91WktF7Ispkq5kKVW3Hto-MVUDhBQD1kSBSAou-NOOReUt4P-0NJRrVx0JEhqGA-XOkfVESV0ZTlywtwmGWZ5llm8r22dOyxcTFj9jShlfZKFNaZ75EBPdIYTG5V3don8U6Ld8kH2sShPBI&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas City Metropolitan Crime Commission</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/kcpolice?__cft__[0]=AZXCAvmwh91WktF7Ispkq5kKVW3Hto-MVUDhBQD1kSBSAou-NOOReUt4P-0NJRrVx0JEhqGA-XOkfVESV0ZTlywtwmGWZ5llm8r22dOyxcTFj9jShlfZKFNaZ75EBPdIYTG5V3don8U6Ld8kH2sShPBI&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas City Missouri Police Department</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/LSPolice?__cft__[0]=AZXCAvmwh91WktF7Ispkq5kKVW3Hto-MVUDhBQD1kSBSAou-NOOReUt4P-0NJRrVx0JEhqGA-XOkfVESV0ZTlywtwmGWZ5llm8r22dOyxcTFj9jShlfZKFNaZ75EBPdIYTG5V3don8U6Ld8kH2sShPBI&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Lee's Summit Missouri Police Department</a>The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) issued the blue alert Monday morning trying to locate a suspect wanted in related to the shooting. The alert was later extended into Kansas.Authorities are looking for Thomas Eugene Tolbert, 27. Tolbert is a black male, around 240 pounds, and is 6 foot 2 inches tall with brown eyes and black hair. At the time he was last seen, he was wearing a black top with a hood, and black shorts.He is armed with a handgun and considered dangerous.Around 11 p.m, Sunday, June 1, law enforcement responded to a domestic disturbance at 3560 SW Hollywood Drive in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. After a short foot pursuit between Tolbert and officers, Tolbert shot a Lee’s Summit police officer, seriously injuring him.Tolbert left the scene in a vehicle that has since been recovered in Grandview, Missouri, but Tolbert remains on the loose.A wireless emergency alert was issued in several Kansas City metro counties on the Kansas side.Anyone who sees Tolbert should immediately call 911. Any other information about his whereabouts should be reported at 1-800-KS-CRIME.------------JACKSON COUNTY—A police officer was injured in a shooting while investigating a domestic disturbance and the search for the suspect identified as 27-year-old Thomas Tolbert continues.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748872142987.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 11:00 p.m. Sunday, police&nbsp; were dispatched to the 3500 block of SW Hollywood Drive in Lee's Summit on the report of a domestic disturbance, according to a media release from police. As the first officer arrived on scene in the apartment complex; and while waiting for his assisting officer, the officer observed a male subject running from the scene. The officer chased the suspect on foot and quickly advised via the radio that shots had been fired. No shots were fired by the officer. The officer was struck multiple times. Investigators are working with area law enforcement partners to track Tolbert.There is no perceived danger in the area of the original crime scene. Multiple witnesses gave a statement that the suspect fled the area in a vehicle. The officer was transported to an area trauma center with serious injuries.

Reward offered for suspect who shot KC area officer multiple times

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement officers protect and serve in many ways that often go without any recognition.

On Tuesday, the Kansas City Police Department shared a photo of Rookie Officer Harrison, reading to a child at Metro Patrol Division.

According to the KCPD report, "the child’s parent was arrested for a domestic violence issue. While officers worked to find a safe place for the child, Harrison stayed with him, showing care. Eventually, a relative picked up the child."&nbsp; "Our officers are grateful for the opportunity to serve."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748980177493.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Police</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement officers protect and serve in many ways that often go without any recognition.On Tuesday, the Kansas City Police Department shared a photo of Rookie Officer Harrison, reading to a child at Metro Patrol Division.According to the KCPD report, "the child’s parent was arrested for a domestic violence issue. While officers worked to find a safe place for the child, Harrison stayed with him, showing care. Eventually, a relative picked up the child."&nbsp; "Our officers are grateful for the opportunity to serve."

KCPD: Officers do far more than we ever see

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an officer-involved shooting in Topeka.

Just after 11:45p.m Thursday, police responded to investigate a call for of a domestic disturbance at a home in the 1500 block of SW 24th Street in Topeka, according to police spokesman Daniel Garrett.

Just before 1a.m. Friday, police attempted to make contact with the suspect. Officers announced their presence, and the individual reportedly began shooting from the home. The officers then discharged their weapons in response. The suspect, an adult male, then surrendered to officers at the scene, and was taken into custody. The suspect was not injured, and a firearm was found at the scene.&nbsp;

TPD requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) to investigate the incident.&nbsp; Per policy, the involved Topeka officers have been placed on administrative leave. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747995528776.png" alt="Police near the scene of the officer-involved shooting -photo by Eric Ives courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police near the scene of the officer-involved shooting -photo by Eric Ives courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an officer-involved shooting in Topeka.Just after 11:45p.m Thursday, police responded to investigate a call for of a domestic disturbance at a home in the 1500 block of SW 24th Street in Topeka, according to police spokesman Daniel Garrett.Just before 1a.m. Friday, police attempted to make contact with the suspect. Officers announced their presence, and the individual reportedly began shooting from the home. The officers then discharged their weapons in response. The suspect, an adult male, then surrendered to officers at the scene, and was taken into custody. The suspect was not injured, and a firearm was found at the scene.&nbsp;TPD requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) to investigate the incident.&nbsp; Per policy, the involved Topeka officers have been placed on administrative leave.

Suspect in custody after gun fight with police at Kansas home

By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension

There are lots of ways for you to be involved in the Barton County Fair!

The theme for the 2025 Barton County Fair is Barnyard Mardi Gras and it will be happening June 25-29.

 Exhibits are due to the fairgrounds for most categories on Wednesday, June 25. Our 4-H members must pre-enter their exhibits while Open Class entries can be entered online ahead of time or on-site on the 25th.

We have a couple of 4-H pre-fair judging events for Sewing &amp; Textiles, Shopping In Style, and Fiber Arts, as well as the 4-H Dog Show. However, these results will be on display in Expo II throughout the fair week.

Judging is handled a bit differently for 4-H and Open Class. Consultative judging is used to provide one-on-one feedback about project learning, and the exhibit, as an important part of the learning opportunity for the 4-H member and all members receive a ribbon on their entry. 

We use the Danish system for 4-H exhibits which defines a Purple as exemplary, a Blue as above average, a Red as average, and a White as having substantial deficiencies. For Open Class, the judge will evaluate the exhibit item and determine if it receives one of the top three placings awarded per class.

Each year, the Barton County Fair Association has several special award categories for Open Class which tie to the theme. Be on the lookout for the announcements about these and all Open Class opportunities. Open Class offers a youth (16 and younger), Adult (17-65), Senior (65 and better), and a Professional class for those who teach about or make a practice of selling their work.

Online entries aren’t open just yet for 4-H or Open Class but keep an eye on <a href="https://www.bartoncountyfair.com/">bartoncountyfair.com</a> for updates, schedules, and entry information.

Come join us June 25-29 to watch the livestock shows, check out 4-H and Open Class exhibits, listen to a concert, share a meal with friends, and support all ages across our community as they showcase their interests from art to woodworking!

We look forward to seeing your entry for the Barnyard Mardi Gras!

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179445671.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood ExtensionThere are lots of ways for you to be involved in the Barton County Fair!The theme for the 2025 Barton County Fair is Barnyard Mardi Gras and it will be happening June 25-29. Exhibits are due to the fairgrounds for most categories on Wednesday, June 25. Our 4-H members must pre-enter their exhibits while Open Class entries can be entered online ahead of time or on-site on the 25th.We have a couple of 4-H pre-fair judging events for Sewing &amp; Textiles, Shopping In Style, and Fiber Arts, as well as the 4-H Dog Show. However, these results will be on display in Expo II throughout the fair week.Judging is handled a bit differently for 4-H and Open Class. Consultative judging is used to provide one-on-one feedback about project learning, and the exhibit, as an important part of the learning opportunity for the 4-H member and all members receive a ribbon on their entry. We use the Danish system for 4-H exhibits which defines a Purple as exemplary, a Blue as above average, a Red as average, and a White as having substantial deficiencies. For Open Class, the judge will evaluate the exhibit item and determine if it receives one of the top three placings awarded per class.Each year, the Barton County Fair Association has several special award categories for Open Class which tie to the theme. Be on the lookout for the announcements about these and all Open Class opportunities. Open Class offers a youth (16 and younger), Adult (17-65), Senior (65 and better), and a Professional class for those who teach about or make a practice of selling their work.Online entries aren’t open just yet for 4-H or Open Class but keep an eye on <a href="https://www.bartoncountyfair.com/">bartoncountyfair.com</a> for updates, schedules, and entry information.Come join us June 25-29 to watch the livestock shows, check out 4-H and Open Class exhibits, listen to a concert, share a meal with friends, and support all ages across our community as they showcase their interests from art to woodworking!We look forward to seeing your entry for the Barnyard Mardi Gras!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: Barnyard Mardi Gras

Races this Saturday, May 24 at RPM Speedway,&nbsp;1344 Fairground Rd., in Hays are presented by Nutrien Ag Solutions.&nbsp;IMCA sport compacts, sport mods, hobbys, stocks and modifieds will race.

Gates open at 5 p.m., hotlaps at 6 p.m. with races to follow at 7 p.m.

• Kids 12 and under are totally free • General admission : $12 • Senior : $10 • Pit pass : $30

This Saturday&nbsp;will be RPM's food drive '25 that directly helps those in OUR area&nbsp;after Sunday's&nbsp;devastating storms.

*5 cans of non-perishables will get you in for ONLY $6 *10 or more cans will get you a FREE general admission ticket! *Does not include VIP area or Pit passes

All food will be donated and delivered to the Community Assistance Center &nbsp;in Hays.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582914748547.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>RPM SpeedwayRaces this Saturday, May 24 at RPM Speedway,&nbsp;1344 Fairground Rd., in Hays are presented by Nutrien Ag Solutions.&nbsp;IMCA sport compacts, sport mods, hobbys, stocks and modifieds will race.Gates open at 5 p.m., hotlaps at 6 p.m. with races to follow at 7 p.m.• Kids 12 and under are totally free • General admission : $12 • Senior : $10 • Pit pass : $30This Saturday&nbsp;will be RPM's food drive '25 that directly helps those in OUR area&nbsp;after Sunday's&nbsp;devastating storms.This Saturday night:*5 cans of non-perishables will get you in for ONLY $6 *10 or more cans will get you a FREE general admission ticket! *Does not include VIP area or Pit passes All food will be donated and delivered to the Community Assistance Center &nbsp;in Hays.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It's another Saturday night at the track!

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