Press association leader took unauthorized loan

Topeka — An unauthorized loan led the Kansas Press Assn. board of directors to ask for the resignation of executive director Jeff Burkhead.

Association board president John D. Montgomery gave members details of the resignation in an e-mail Friday.

“The main issue was an unauthorized loan from the association to the former executive director. The loan came to the board’s attention only in recent weeks. No officer of the board ever authorized it. The sum had become significant enough that the board had to move swiftly,” wrote Montgomery, who is editor and publisher of The Hays Daily News.

Before resigning Wednesday, Montgomery said, Burkhead signed a promissory note recognizing the debt and pledging to repay it. Montgomery declined to say how much money was involved.

Burkhead could not be reached Friday for comment. Burkhead, a graduate of Lawrence High School and Kansas University, served as executive director since December 2000.

Schools

Bishop Seabury campus dedicated in ceremony

The new campus of Bishop Seabury Academy was dedicated Friday in a ceremony led by the Episcopal bishop of Kansas.

The Rev. William Smalley, above, presided at consecration of the former Alvamar Racquet and Swim Club, 4120 Clinton Parkway, as site of the private academy for junior high school and high school students.

The school’s 113 students, their relatives and school supporters attended a program of songs and prayer.

The Rev. Peter Cheney, executive director of the National Association of Episcopal Schools, was keynote speaker.

Bishop Seabury opened in 1997, with 32 students, at the former Kaw Valley School east of Lawrence. A campaign that raised $2.7 million made it possible to buy and renovate the tennis club for a school. Classes began in August at the new school.

Gasoline prices

Pump Patrol seeks deals

The Journal-World has found a Lawrence-area gasoline price as low as $1.49 at Conoco, 1030 N. Third St. If you find a lower price, call Pump Patrol at 832-7154.