Todd Thompson

06/01/2026

05/30/2026

This week’s Pasturday in Leavenworth County: Did You Know?

Lansing, Kansas was named for James “Doc” Lansing, a Civil War veteran, hospital steward, pharmacist, merchant, and pioneer settler. In 1878, he and John C. Schmidt platted 90 acres into what became the Town of Lansing. Although the town was founded in 1878, it wasn't officially incorporated until 1959.

Doc, formerly William Lansing Taylor, changed his name upon his enlistment in 1862 as a hospital steward in the 7th Kansas Cavalry. Following the Civil War, he earned a position at the new state penitentiary in Kansas as a hospital steward. He later resigned and opened a general mercantile store, which held the post office and an apothecary business, in the area called “Town of Progress”.

Anyone know where his store was?

Learn more at the lansing_museum

05/29/2026

Today I attended the signing of Senate Bill 374 with Governor Laura Kelly, State Senator Jeff Klemp, members of the Leavenworth County Attorney’s Office, Deputy County Attorney Shawn Boyd, Victim Witness Officer Marijke Clothier — and other special folks our community.

I have seen to the passage of several important bills, not many as significant as this one. This bipartisan bill closes a dangerous “competency loophole” in Kansas law and strengthens protections for public safety while balancing due process rights.

Thank you to everyone who worked together to help get this legislation signed into law.

05/28/2026

A jury found Brandy Ohara, 48, guilty of assaulting a police officer. Court documents state Ohara attempted to strike a Leavenworth police officer with the back of her head...
https://www.leavenworthcounty.gov/government/county_attorney_s_office/press_releases_2026.php

05/27/2026

Congratulations!

The Lansing High School girls swim team made history this past weekend, capturing the Class 5-1A St...

05/27/2026

Eid Mubarak to all those that celebrate.

05/27/2026

There’s a lot of construction on our roads now.

Construction zone laws are not suggestions. Slow down, stay alert, and follow every posted sign — even when workers aren’t visible.

In Kansas, moving violations in a construction zone can mean DOUBLE fines. Ignoring cones, barricades, reduced speed limits, or a flagger’s directions is also against the law. And yes, work zone restrictions can remain in effect 24/7.

Orange barrels are temporary. The consequences of not paying attention may not be.

Reminder: These posts are for educational purposes. If you have questions, consult an attorney.

05/25/2026

Our second Memorial Day service today brought us to Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery, where we once again joined veterans, families, service members, and members of the community to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.

There is something powerful about standing in a place like Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery on Memorial Day. The rows of headstones remind us that behind every name is a story of courage, duty, and sacrifice.

Today was about remembrance and paying respect. It was also about taking time to recognize the men and women who never came home, and the families who continue to carry that loss.

We are grateful to all who continue to preserve the memory of our fallen heroes. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.