Good morning, Olathe.

Johnson County Post readers now can vote in the final Best of Johnson County awards ballot—the top five nominees in each of 217 categories compete for 2025 bragging rights.

Voters casting 10 or more votes from one valid email will be entered in a drawing for $500.

An Olathe man, Jesus Neri-Aguilar—who pleaded guilty to stabbing two people in fall 2023 that led to 26-year-old Juan Jose Balleza-Ojeda’s death and injured 28-year-old Alexis Tovar-Estrada—received a 92-month prison sentence from Johnson County District Court on April 7.

Denton Loudermill, 49, who was falsely accused and handcuffed during the 2024 parade shooting but was never charged, died as his attorney confirmed—cause of death remains unconfirmed—and further details have not been released.

Sen. Doug Shane from southwest Johnson County said education is Kansas's biggest challenge because more students now need special help—rising autism rates and increased developmental delays have made schools work harder.

He added his legislative efforts, which include passing new open records rules and adding funds for the Kansas School for the Deaf, will help address these issues.

Lawmakers last week passed House Bill 2045 to create a new Office of Early Childhood that merges three child care departments, eases provider rules, and lets guardians opt out of vaccine requirements by signing a written statement.

The Senate voted 30 to 10 and the House voted 99 to 23, and the bill now goes to Gov. Kelly for approval.

2025 Garmin Olathe Marathon

6:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. — Garmin — Entry fee varies — Run through the scenic streets of Olathe while supporting local charities.

2025 Kansas Optometric Association's 125th Celebration Meeting

7 AM-11 PM — Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center — Details TBA — Celebrate a milestone with the Kansas Optometric Association in Olathe.

Docker with Kubernetes Administration Training

May 5-9 — Johnson County Community College: Olathe Health Education Center — $2490 — Enhance your skills in DevOps with expert-led training on Docker and Kubernetes.