The Geary Community Farmers Market will open on Thursday, June 11, 4:00 – 7:00 pm. The market will located in the front parking lot at Geary Community Hospital, 1102 St Mary’s Road in Junction City.

Shannon Rosauer, a Volunteer who is helping the coordinate the Market, said it will probably start out a little smaller than usual and grow as the season continues.

Live Well Geary County has worked in cooperation with the Geary Co Health Dept, Manhattan Farmers Market, and Geary Community Hospital to develop this year’s operating plan. As we continue to move forward, tackling this pandemic, we strongly encourage everyone to practice physical and social distancing, proper handwashing, and wear a mask in public to help decrease the transmission of COVID-19 and encourage friends and family members to do the same.

Many of your favorite vendors will be at the market – watch the Geary Community Farmers Market Facebook page for more information and invite your friends to Like &amp; Follow to help spread the word.

To provide for safe farmers market operations, the following policies are in effect until further notice:

· Anyone who is sick, or who has been exposed to COVID-19 must not attend the farmers market.

· Wear a mask if you have one. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth while at the market.

· Walkways will be widened and vendor booths will be spaced several feet apart to allow for social distancing. Please maintain at least 6 feet of physical distance from other customers in walkways and while waiting at vendors’ stalls.

· Check the Geary Community Farmers Market Facebook page for a weekly list of vendors and in-season products to pre-plan your shopping.

· Come to the market with a purchase plan in mind and limit social visiting with vendors and other shoppers.

· Bring as few family members as possible to attend the market.

· Please do not touch or sample items unless you are given permission by the vendor. Vendors are happy to help select and bag items for you.

· Some vendors accept pre-orders for quick and easy pick-up. Check our online vendor list at https://www.livewellgearycounty.org/farmers-market for more information.

· Wash your hands and/or use hand sanitizer before and after attending the market.

· Due to the need for a more spread-out market, there are fewer customer parking spots in the GCH parking lot. No parking is allowed in the grass next to the GCH parking lot. There is ample additional parking on St Mary’s Road – please pay attention not to park in front of the bus stop or fire hydrants.

&nbsp; ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All Vendors must pre-register with the farmers market. Online registration is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.livewellgearycounty.org/farmers-market" target="_blank">https://www.livewellgearycounty.org/farmers-market</a>

· Vendors will use hand sanitizer, gloves, and/or handwashing stations before and frequently during the market.

· Vendors will handle all products prior to sale.

· Vendors are asked to round prices up or down to avoid coin transactions.

· Vendors are asked to bring only essential booth staff – no extra family members or children if it can be avoided

· Vendors are asked to place an extra table in between the customer and the product display and will sterilize surfaces frequently. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out by email to livewellgearycounty@gmail.com or by private message to the Geary Community Farmers Market Facebook page. Our local farmers have great products ready for you and are grateful for your support!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591397552295.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Geary Community Farmers Market will open on Thursday, June 11, 4:00 – 7:00 pm. The market will located in the front parking lot at Geary Community Hospital, 1102 St Mary’s Road in Junction City.Shannon Rosauer, a Volunteer who is helping the coordinate the Market, said it will probably start out a little smaller than usual and grow as the season continues.Live Well Geary County has worked in cooperation with the Geary Co Health Dept, Manhattan Farmers Market, and Geary Community Hospital to develop this year’s operating plan. As we continue to move forward, tackling this pandemic, we strongly encourage everyone to practice physical and social distancing, proper handwashing, and wear a mask in public to help decrease the transmission of COVID-19 and encourage friends and family members to do the same.Many of your favorite vendors will be at the market – watch the Geary Community Farmers Market Facebook page for more information and invite your friends to Like &amp; Follow to help spread the word.To provide for safe farmers market operations, the following policies are in effect until further notice:· Anyone who is sick, or who has been exposed to COVID-19 must not attend the farmers market.· No pets are allowed at the market.· Wear a mask if you have one. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth while at the market.For Farmers Market customers:· Walkways will be widened and vendor booths will be spaced several feet apart to allow for social distancing. Please maintain at least 6 feet of physical distance from other customers in walkways and while waiting at vendors’ stalls.· Check the Geary Community Farmers Market Facebook page for a weekly list of vendors and in-season products to pre-plan your shopping.· Come to the market with a purchase plan in mind and limit social visiting with vendors and other shoppers.· Bring as few family members as possible to attend the market.· Please do not touch or sample items unless you are given permission by the vendor. Vendors are happy to help select and bag items for you.· Some vendors accept pre-orders for quick and easy pick-up. Check our online vendor list at https://www.livewellgearycounty.org/farmers-market for more information.· Wash your hands and/or use hand sanitizer before and after attending the market.· Due to the need for a more spread-out market, there are fewer customer parking spots in the GCH parking lot. No parking is allowed in the grass next to the GCH parking lot. There is ample additional parking on St Mary’s Road – please pay attention not to park in front of the bus stop or fire hydrants.For Farmers Market vendors:&nbsp; ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All Vendors must pre-register with the farmers market. Online registration is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.livewellgearycounty.org/farmers-market" target="_blank">https://www.livewellgearycounty.org/farmers-market</a>· Vendors will use hand sanitizer, gloves, and/or handwashing stations before and frequently during the market.· Vendors will handle all products prior to sale.· Vendors are asked to round prices up or down to avoid coin transactions.· Vendors are asked to bring only essential booth staff – no extra family members or children if it can be avoided· Vendors are asked to place an extra table in between the customer and the product display and will sterilize surfaces frequently. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out by email to livewellgearycounty@gmail.com or by private message to the Geary Community Farmers Market Facebook page. Our local farmers have great products ready for you and are grateful for your support!

There will be a Geary Community Farmer's Market this summer

The Emergency Management Office reports that the Geary County Health Department was advised Friday of a positive COVID-19 case in the county. 

The latest case involves a youth who resides in Geary County.&nbsp;

Of the 28 cases that have now been reported, 15 patients have recovered while 12 are active cases. There are 22 pending tests, and there have been 736 negative test results.

The Emergency Management Office reports that the Geary County Health Department was advised Friday of a positive COVID-19 case in the county. The latest case involves a youth who resides in Geary County.&nbsp;Of the 28 cases that have now been reported, 15 patients have recovered while 12 are active cases. There are 22 pending tests, and there have been 736 negative test results.

Another positive case of COVID-19 confirmed in Geary County

All public events at the Central Kansas Free Fair, will not be held this year. The Fair Board made the decision to cancel all public events for that fair. That includes the Wild Bill Kickok Rode, the demolition derby, tractor pull, carnival, parade, open class judging and other entertainment events.

In a social media post it was noted that the decision was not made lightly, and has taken into consideration guidance from the Dickinson County Health Officer, K-State Research and Extension, the Kansas Department of Agriculture plus city and county officials. The Fair Board also considered the financial impacts that the COVID-19 pandemic has placed on families, businesses and the fair board.&nbsp;

They do plan to return with a fair in 2021.

The focus of the 2020 fair will be given to the 4-H members to have their exhibits judged in a safe and healthy environment. Those judging events, including livestock shows, will not be open to the public and access to the fairgrounds will be limited to exhibitors, immediate family, event volunteers and staff. Efforts will be made to video shows and photograph exhibits to the public access to view them online.

Look for further updates on the livestock auction.

All public events at the Central Kansas Free Fair, will not be held this year. The Fair Board made the decision to cancel all public events for that fair. That includes the Wild Bill Kickok Rode, the demolition derby, tractor pull, carnival, parade, open class judging and other entertainment events.In a social media post it was noted that the decision was not made lightly, and has taken into consideration guidance from the Dickinson County Health Officer, K-State Research and Extension, the Kansas Department of Agriculture plus city and county officials. The Fair Board also considered the financial impacts that the COVID-19 pandemic has placed on families, businesses and the fair board.&nbsp;They do plan to return with a fair in 2021.The focus of the 2020 fair will be given to the 4-H members to have their exhibits judged in a safe and healthy environment. Those judging events, including livestock shows, will not be open to the public and access to the fairgrounds will be limited to exhibitors, immediate family, event volunteers and staff. Efforts will be made to video shows and photograph exhibits to the public access to view them online.Look for further updates on the livestock auction.

Central Kansas Free Fair will not be open to the general public this year

Testing was completed Friday on all Correctional Officers, Inmates and at risk employees with the help and support of the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, Kansas Division of Emergency Management, Geary Community Hospital, Geary County Health Department and Geary County Emergency Management.

A second corrections officer with the Geary County Sheriff's department has tested positive for COVID-19. The Department announced the test result for the second officer Thursday afternoon.&nbsp; That individual had been tested as result of direct contact with a previous corrections officer who tested positive. 

 Testing and contact tracing is ongoing and the Department said they will continue to update with information as it changes.

The Geary County Sheriff's Office had a correction officer who had a test come back positive for Covid-19 Thursday at approximately 1230 hours. 

According to a social media post from the Department they are following the recommendations of the Geary County Health Officer and are currently assisting the Health Department with contact tracing. There haven't been any other positive tests results at this time. 

The Department is asking the public to be patient as there are changes being made to accommodate the necessary precautions.

UPDATE:Testing was completed Friday on all Correctional Officers, Inmates and at risk employees with the help and support of the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, Kansas Division of Emergency Management, Geary Community Hospital, Geary County Health Department and Geary County Emergency Management.---A second corrections officer with the Geary County Sheriff's department has tested positive for COVID-19. The Department announced the test result for the second officer Thursday afternoon.&nbsp; That individual had been tested as result of direct contact with a previous corrections officer who tested positive. Testing and contact tracing is ongoing and the Department said they will continue to update with information as it changes.----The Geary County Sheriff's Office had a correction officer who had a test come back positive for Covid-19 Thursday at approximately 1230 hours. According to a social media post from the Department they are following the recommendations of the Geary County Health Officer and are currently assisting the Health Department with contact tracing. There haven't been any other positive tests results at this time. The Department is asking the public to be patient as there are changes being made to accommodate the necessary precautions.

Two Corrections Officers test positive for COVID-19

Kansas State University is announcing a third round of emergency furloughs from multiple areas of the university. A total of 15 employees will be furloughed. According to the K-State Today announcement affected areas include Enrollment Management, International Student and Scholar Services, and Education Abroad. The furloughs will occur in June and July.

Enrollment Management is furloughing three employees, International Student and Scholar Services is furloughing five employees, and Education Abroad is furloughing seven employees.&nbsp; The emergency furloughs are expected to result in cost reductions of nearly $80,000.

&nbsp;Furloughed employees may qualify for state unemployment benefits.

Kansas State University is announcing a third round of emergency furloughs from multiple areas of the university. A total of 15 employees will be furloughed. According to the K-State Today announcement affected areas include Enrollment Management, International Student and Scholar Services, and Education Abroad. The furloughs will occur in June and July.Enrollment Management is furloughing three employees, International Student and Scholar Services is furloughing five employees, and Education Abroad is furloughing seven employees.&nbsp; The emergency furloughs are expected to result in cost reductions of nearly $80,000.&nbsp;Furloughed employees may qualify for state unemployment benefits.

KSU announces another round of emergency furloughs

By ELLE MOXLEY <a href="https://www.kcur.org/education/2020-06-03/kansas-school-districts-funding-looks-good-on-paper-but-deep-cuts-are-expected-this-fall-due-to-the-pandemic">Kansas News Service</a>

Kansas school districts are trying to budget for some pretty big unknowns right now.

No
 one knows if it will even be safe to have students in schools in 
August, and everyone’s worried about the $650 million hole COVID-19 blew
 in the state’s budget. Administrators are worried that if the state’s 
economy doesn’t rebound soon, they’ll have to make deep cuts in the 
middle of next school year.

“There’s not a superintendent that 
isn’t preparing for something like that,” said Glen Suppes, the 
superintendent of the Smoky Valley Public Schools in Lindsborg. “We 
continue to hear optimism from (state education) Commissioner Randy 
Watson, and that schools are a priority for the governor.

“But I’m anxious to see how the tax revenues are going to come in.”

The
 fiscal year 2021 budget that Kansas lawmakers passed in March, before 
the pandemic hit, looked pretty good for public education. K-12 schools 
got an additional $120 million, money that the state’s high court has 
said needs to be spent on schools following <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2019-03-29/times-nearly-up-for-kansas-lawmakers-to-resolve-school-spending" target="_blank">a years-long funding battle</a>.

“The
 problem is that budget, when it was passed, was based on numbers last 
November that have dramatically changed,” said Mark Tallman with the 
Kansas Association of School Boards.

Because of the pandemic, 
Kansas is facing a huge budget shortfall. In an April 20 memo, the 
Kansas Legislative Research Department forecasted an 8% overall decline 
in revenue for the coming fiscal year.

Tallman said in a state that spends more than half its revenue on education, there’s no way cuts won’t touch K-12 schools.

“There
 are certainly things the governor and legislature could do, but all of 
those are kind of bad choices. In a simple world, if you just ... cut 8%
 out of the budget, you're taking very major cuts,” Tallman said.

In
 a big district like Shawnee Mission in Johnson County, an 8% cut would 
be the difference between ending the school year with a $7 million 
surplus — and a $13 million deficit.

And that’s before factoring 
in raises, which are top-of-mind in Shawnee Mission after a protracted 
contract dispute with the teachers union that dragged on for most of the
 school year that just ended.

“I guess I’m one of those that’s 
really concerned about the revenue,” board member Brad Stratton said 
during a budget workshop last week.

Stratton, who was first 
elected to the school board in 2015, wants to budget cautiously for the 
upcoming school year because he knows what happens when revenue 
collections fall short: Education pays the price.

“KSDE (the 
Kansas Department of Education) is presenting one number, and then 
there’s the reality our legislators and governor are going to have to 
face,” Stratton said.

Until
 lawmakers tell the state Department of Education otherwise, though, 
schools are stuck with the optimistic, pre-pandemic numbers.

But 
Kansas school superintendents can’t afford to be quite so optimistic. 
Suppes, the Smoky Valley superintendent, needs to make decisions about 
staffing now before the fiscal year resets July 1.

“Are we going 
to be paying coaches that may not coach a sport in the fall if we're 
shut down? Are we going to be paying bus drivers? And if we don't, yes, 
the district saves money, but on the other hand, there's another family 
without an income,” he said.

On top of that, Suppes says 
superintendents still don’t know what school will look like in the fall 
after the pandemic wiped out the final two months of this past school 
year. 

“Can we touch the playground equipment? Can we sit in the 
lunch room together where we have plexiglass between us at all times?” 
Suppes said. “And how will we even pass through the corridor safely?”

In
 a normal budget year, Wichita Public Schools Chief Financial Officer 
Susan Willis runs four or five budget scenarios. This year, she said 
she’s running 15.

Not only is Willis trying to account for how 
school might be changed by the coronavirus, but she also is trying to 
factor in the timing of potential budget cuts.

“What does it mean 
if they let us start the year with the increase that is due under the 
formula, but they come in with a cut in December? What are our options 
at that point?” Willis said.

Willis
 said Kansas schools are used to dealing with financial uncertainty. 
There was the Great Recession, the tax cuts imposed by former Gov. Sam 
Brownback and the prolonged school funding fight.

“But what makes 
this extremely challenging is we’re not as familiar with how we adapt 
the academic school year ... if we have to social distance,” Willis 
said.

Kansas has gotten $2 billion dollars from the federal 
government to pay for coronavirus-related expenses, like protective gear
 and ventilators. But that money isn’t meant to shore up state budgets. 
That kind of aid could still come — it did during the Great Recession — 
but according to Marguerite Roza, states shouldn’t count on it.

“We
 can’t even sort of look back at the last recession and say, ‘Here’s how
 we know this plays out’ because this is different,” said Roza, who runs
 the Edunomics Lab at Georgetown University, a research center for 
education financial policy.

Roza said states that delay making 
inevitable budget cuts could fare worse than states that act now to 
restrict spending. Missouri has already slashed K-12 funding by more 
than $130 million. Colorado has warned schools that significant cuts are
 coming.

But Kansas lawmakers have historically waited for the revenue consensus to come out in November before balancing the budgets.

“If
 states wait longer to revise their budget projections or announce any 
K-12 funding impact, that will send districts further into the future 
before making any spending changes, which could require deeper cuts,” 
Roza said. “The idea is if you can’t start saving money now, you’ll have
 to save more and more suddenly.”

Elle Moxley covers education for KCUR. You can reach her on Twitter @ellemoxley.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591215691151.png" alt="Kansas schools face major uncertainty entering the 2020-21 school year, with many school administrators expecting drastic cuts in the fall once the state's budget fully absorbs the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Chris Neal / For the Kansas News Service " />
 <figcaption>Kansas schools face major uncertainty entering the 2020-21 school year, with many school administrators expecting drastic cuts in the fall once the state's budget fully absorbs the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Chris Neal / For the Kansas News Service </figcaption>
 </figure>By ELLE MOXLEY <a href="https://www.kcur.org/education/2020-06-03/kansas-school-districts-funding-looks-good-on-paper-but-deep-cuts-are-expected-this-fall-due-to-the-pandemic">Kansas News Service</a>Kansas school districts are trying to budget for some pretty big unknowns right now.No
 one knows if it will even be safe to have students in schools in 
August, and everyone’s worried about the $650 million hole COVID-19 blew
 in the state’s budget. Administrators are worried that if the state’s 
economy doesn’t rebound soon, they’ll have to make deep cuts in the 
middle of next school year.“There’s not a superintendent that 
isn’t preparing for something like that,” said Glen Suppes, the 
superintendent of the Smoky Valley Public Schools in Lindsborg. “We 
continue to hear optimism from (state education) Commissioner Randy 
Watson, and that schools are a priority for the governor.“But I’m anxious to see how the tax revenues are going to come in.”<h2>‘You’re talking very major cuts’</h2>The
 fiscal year 2021 budget that Kansas lawmakers passed in March, before 
the pandemic hit, looked pretty good for public education. K-12 schools 
got an additional $120 million, money that the state’s high court has 
said needs to be spent on schools following <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2019-03-29/times-nearly-up-for-kansas-lawmakers-to-resolve-school-spending" target="_blank">a years-long funding battle</a>.“The
 problem is that budget, when it was passed, was based on numbers last 
November that have dramatically changed,” said Mark Tallman with the 
Kansas Association of School Boards.Because of the pandemic, 
Kansas is facing a huge budget shortfall. In an April 20 memo, the 
Kansas Legislative Research Department forecasted an 8% overall decline 
in revenue for the coming fiscal year.Tallman said in a state that spends more than half its revenue on education, there’s no way cuts won’t touch K-12 schools.“There
 are certainly things the governor and legislature could do, but all of 
those are kind of bad choices. In a simple world, if you just ... cut 8%
 out of the budget, you're taking very major cuts,” Tallman said.In
 a big district like Shawnee Mission in Johnson County, an 8% cut would 
be the difference between ending the school year with a $7 million 
surplus — and a $13 million deficit.And that’s before factoring 
in raises, which are top-of-mind in Shawnee Mission after a protracted 
contract dispute with the teachers union that dragged on for most of the
 school year that just ended.“I guess I’m one of those that’s 
really concerned about the revenue,” board member Brad Stratton said 
during a budget workshop last week.Stratton, who was first 
elected to the school board in 2015, wants to budget cautiously for the 
upcoming school year because he knows what happens when revenue 
collections fall short: Education pays the price.“KSDE (the 
Kansas Department of Education) is presenting one number, and then 
there’s the reality our legislators and governor are going to have to 
face,” Stratton said.<h2>Factoring in cuts and the coronavirus</h2>Until
 lawmakers tell the state Department of Education otherwise, though, 
schools are stuck with the optimistic, pre-pandemic numbers.But 
Kansas school superintendents can’t afford to be quite so optimistic. 
Suppes, the Smoky Valley superintendent, needs to make decisions about 
staffing now before the fiscal year resets July 1.“Are we going 
to be paying coaches that may not coach a sport in the fall if we're 
shut down? Are we going to be paying bus drivers? And if we don't, yes, 
the district saves money, but on the other hand, there's another family 
without an income,” he said.On top of that, Suppes says 
superintendents still don’t know what school will look like in the fall 
after the pandemic wiped out the final two months of this past school 
year. “Can we touch the playground equipment? Can we sit in the 
lunch room together where we have plexiglass between us at all times?” 
Suppes said. “And how will we even pass through the corridor safely?”In
 a normal budget year, Wichita Public Schools Chief Financial Officer 
Susan Willis runs four or five budget scenarios. This year, she said 
she’s running 15.Not only is Willis trying to account for how 
school might be changed by the coronavirus, but she also is trying to 
factor in the timing of potential budget cuts.“What does it mean 
if they let us start the year with the increase that is due under the 
formula, but they come in with a cut in December? What are our options 
at that point?” Willis said.<h2>A new kind of challenge</h2>Willis
 said Kansas schools are used to dealing with financial uncertainty. 
There was the Great Recession, the tax cuts imposed by former Gov. Sam 
Brownback and the prolonged school funding fight.“But what makes 
this extremely challenging is we’re not as familiar with how we adapt 
the academic school year ... if we have to social distance,” Willis 
said.Kansas has gotten $2 billion dollars from the federal 
government to pay for coronavirus-related expenses, like protective gear
 and ventilators. But that money isn’t meant to shore up state budgets. 
That kind of aid could still come — it did during the Great Recession — 
but according to Marguerite Roza, states shouldn’t count on it.“We
 can’t even sort of look back at the last recession and say, ‘Here’s how
 we know this plays out’ because this is different,” said Roza, who runs
 the Edunomics Lab at Georgetown University, a research center for 
education financial policy.Roza said states that delay making 
inevitable budget cuts could fare worse than states that act now to 
restrict spending. Missouri has already slashed K-12 funding by more 
than $130 million. Colorado has warned schools that significant cuts are
 coming.But Kansas lawmakers have historically waited for the revenue consensus to come out in November before balancing the budgets.“If
 states wait longer to revise their budget projections or announce any 
K-12 funding impact, that will send districts further into the future 
before making any spending changes, which could require deeper cuts,” 
Roza said. “The idea is if you can’t start saving money now, you’ll have
 to save more and more suddenly.”Elle Moxley covers education for KCUR. You can reach her on Twitter @ellemoxley.

Kan. school funding looks good on paper, but deep cuts expected

Geary County Senior Center Director Debbie LaCroix announced on Wednesday that Center will reopen on June 15. "We'll be serving meals and we've already started having exercise." That will include home-delivered meals to those who are home bound. "And I already know some of our dining room people don't feel comfortable coming back yet. And that's perfectly fine, we'll still deliver meals to them."

LaCroix said they will serve hot meals for anyone wanting to come to the dining room, Monday through Friday. She is trying to learn who will be coming back for meals. "But if anyone is out there is on our home-delivered meals that usually had lunch here and wants to come back please give us a call ( 238-4015 )."

The dining room at the Senior Center closed March 19 and trips transporting people to locations such as the grocery store, haircuts and banks also stopped. Now that service will be able to resume.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591207475862.jpeg" alt="Geary County Senior Center" />
 <figcaption>Geary County Senior Center</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary County Senior Center Director Debbie LaCroix announced on Wednesday that Center will reopen on June 15. "We'll be serving meals and we've already started having exercise." That will include home-delivered meals to those who are home bound. "And I already know some of our dining room people don't feel comfortable coming back yet. And that's perfectly fine, we'll still deliver meals to them."LaCroix said they will serve hot meals for anyone wanting to come to the dining room, Monday through Friday. She is trying to learn who will be coming back for meals. "But if anyone is out there is on our home-delivered meals that usually had lunch here and wants to come back please give us a call ( 238-4015 )."The dining room at the Senior Center closed March 19 and trips transporting people to locations such as the grocery store, haircuts and banks also stopped. Now that service will be able to resume.

Geary County Senior Center will reopen June 15

The 2020 Geary County Free Fair events will not be open to the public this summer due to COVID-19. Extension Agent Ginger Kopfer has announced that the Free Fair Board has made the decision to cancel all public events for the fair this year.

The focus will be on giving 4-H members the opportunity for judging of their exhibits in a safe and healthy environment. The judging events, including livestock shows, will not be open to the public and access to the fairgrounds will be limited to those who need to be there. That could include 4-H members who are exhibiting, their immediate family, event volunteers and staff.

Kopfer said every effort will be made to video shows and photograph exhibits so the public can view them online. The project and livestock auction at the end of the fair will be conducted virtually. Further details on that will be provided when they become available.

Kopfer said the decision was not made lightly and has taken into consideration guidance from the Geary Health Department, Kansas Department of Agriculture K-State Research and Extension and Kansas 4-H.&nbsp; Officials look forward to a great fair in 2021.

The 2020 Geary County Free Fair events will not be open to the public this summer due to COVID-19. Extension Agent Ginger Kopfer has announced that the Free Fair Board has made the decision to cancel all public events for the fair this year.The focus will be on giving 4-H members the opportunity for judging of their exhibits in a safe and healthy environment. The judging events, including livestock shows, will not be open to the public and access to the fairgrounds will be limited to those who need to be there. That could include 4-H members who are exhibiting, their immediate family, event volunteers and staff.Kopfer said every effort will be made to video shows and photograph exhibits so the public can view them online. The project and livestock auction at the end of the fair will be conducted virtually. Further details on that will be provided when they become available.Kopfer said the decision was not made lightly and has taken into consideration guidance from the Geary Health Department, Kansas Department of Agriculture K-State Research and Extension and Kansas 4-H.&nbsp; Officials look forward to a great fair in 2021.

All public events for the 2020 Geary County Free Fair are cancelled

Junction City, KS, June 3, 2020&nbsp;– Geary Community Hospital was awarded an ‘A’&nbsp;in the&nbsp;spring 2020<a href="http://www.hospitalsafetygrade.org/" target="_blank">&nbsp;Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade</a>,&nbsp;a national distinction&nbsp;recognizing Geary Community Hospital’s achievements providing safer health care. The Leapfrog Group is an independent national watchdog organization committed to health care quality and safety. The Safety Grade is a letter grade assigned to all general hospitals across the country and updated every six months, assessing how well the hospital prevents medical errors and other harms to patients.

“With the unprecedented times, it is nice to be recognized as going above and beyond for the safety of our patients. Our staff works tirelessly to ensure that our patients are taken care of. I couldn’t be more proud of our staff and hospital,” said Frank Corcoran, Interim CEO of Geary Community Hospital.

“As the Nation copes with a challenging pandemic, our gratitude extends to hospital leadership and health care workers everywhere for their tremendous dedication,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “We hope this ‘A’ helps to thank the people who work and volunteer for Geary Community Hospital. They are role models in putting patients first, and their service has been extraordinary in our country’s time of need.”

Developed under the guidance of a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.leapfroggroup.org/about/expert-panelists" target="_blank">national Expert Panel</a>, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses up to 28 measures of publicly available hospital safety data to assign grades to more than 2,600 U.S. acute-care hospitals twice per year. The Hospital Safety Grade’s methodology is peer-reviewed and fully transparent, and the results are free to the public.

Geary Community Hospital was awarded an ‘A’ grade, when Leapfrog updated grades for spring 2020. To see Geary Community Hospital’s full grade details and access patient tips for staying safe in the hospital, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://hospitalsafetygrade.org/" target="_blank">hospitalsafetygrade.org</a>&nbsp;and follow The Leapfrog Group on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/LeapfrogGroup" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheLeapfrogGroup/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591195101136.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Ashley KingJunction City, KS, June 3, 2020&nbsp;– Geary Community Hospital was awarded an ‘A’&nbsp;in the&nbsp;spring 2020<a href="http://www.hospitalsafetygrade.org/" target="_blank">&nbsp;Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade</a>,&nbsp;a national distinction&nbsp;recognizing Geary Community Hospital’s achievements providing safer health care. The Leapfrog Group is an independent national watchdog organization committed to health care quality and safety. The Safety Grade is a letter grade assigned to all general hospitals across the country and updated every six months, assessing how well the hospital prevents medical errors and other harms to patients.“With the unprecedented times, it is nice to be recognized as going above and beyond for the safety of our patients. Our staff works tirelessly to ensure that our patients are taken care of. I couldn’t be more proud of our staff and hospital,” said Frank Corcoran, Interim CEO of Geary Community Hospital. “As the Nation copes with a challenging pandemic, our gratitude extends to hospital leadership and health care workers everywhere for their tremendous dedication,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “We hope this ‘A’ helps to thank the people who work and volunteer for Geary Community Hospital. They are role models in putting patients first, and their service has been extraordinary in our country’s time of need.”Developed under the guidance of a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.leapfroggroup.org/about/expert-panelists" target="_blank">national Expert Panel</a>, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses up to 28 measures of publicly available hospital safety data to assign grades to more than 2,600 U.S. acute-care hospitals twice per year. The Hospital Safety Grade’s methodology is peer-reviewed and fully transparent, and the results are free to the public.Geary Community Hospital was awarded an ‘A’ grade, when Leapfrog updated grades for spring 2020. To see Geary Community Hospital’s full grade details and access patient tips for staying safe in the hospital, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://hospitalsafetygrade.org/" target="_blank">hospitalsafetygrade.org</a>&nbsp;and follow The Leapfrog Group on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/LeapfrogGroup" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheLeapfrogGroup/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.

Geary Community Hospital is recognized with an "A" grade for safer healthcare

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A coronavirus outbreak at a Kansas City paper plant has infected more than 200 people, health officials announced Tuesday.

The Kansas City Health Department said the first employee at Aspen Paper Products tested positive in mid-May. As cases continued to increase, Aspen tested all its employees on Friday and Saturday. The Kansas City plant employs about 850 people.

Health officials are working with Aspen to increase cleaning and personal protection equipment.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A coronavirus outbreak at a Kansas City paper plant has infected more than 200 people, health officials announced Tuesday.The Kansas City Health Department said the first employee at Aspen Paper Products tested positive in mid-May. As cases continued to increase, Aspen tested all its employees on Friday and Saturday. The Kansas City plant employs about 850 people.Health officials are working with Aspen to increase cleaning and personal protection equipment.

Virus outbreak at Kansas City paper plant infects 200-plus

The Geary County Health Department has confirmed the first COVID-19 death in Geary County. The victim was a 65-year old man who had tested positive, and had been a patient at Geary Community Hospital. He passed away on Tuesday.

"We are saddened by his death and encourage everyone to take this virus seriously by following the guidelines put out by the CDC, KDHE and the Health Department, said Tammy VonBusch, Geary County Health Officer.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has released guidelines for quarantine and isolation of travelers who visited locations in the United States where large numbers of people have contracted the disease.&nbsp;

If you are experiencing symptoms such as a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider immediately. Do not visit in-person before receiving confirmation from that healthcare provider.

So far since the pandemic began there have been 22 positive COVID-19 cases in Geary County.

The Geary County Health Department has confirmed the first COVID-19 death in Geary County. The victim was a 65-year old man who had tested positive, and had been a patient at Geary Community Hospital. He passed away on Tuesday."We are saddened by his death and encourage everyone to take this virus seriously by following the guidelines put out by the CDC, KDHE and the Health Department, said Tammy VonBusch, Geary County Health Officer.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has released guidelines for quarantine and isolation of travelers who visited locations in the United States where large numbers of people have contracted the disease.&nbsp;If you are experiencing symptoms such as a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider immediately. Do not visit in-person before receiving confirmation from that healthcare provider.So far since the pandemic began there have been 22 positive COVID-19 cases in Geary County.

COVID-19 claims the life of a Geary County resident

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The coronavirus pandemic has forced sports teams and their leagues to evaluate how they will welcome back fans. Social distancing is very likely whenever it happens. 

In Taiwan, a limited number of fans have been allowed into baseball games and told to sit three seats apart. U.S. colleges and pro leagues are assessing how to handle fans for fall sports, including football. Already Iowa State and Notre Dame are among schools planning for stadiums far less than full. 

Teams are also trying to figure out ways to prevent crowds entering or leaving, and limiting people on concourses.&nbsp;

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The coronavirus pandemic has forced sports teams and their leagues to evaluate how they will welcome back fans. Social distancing is very likely whenever it happens. In Taiwan, a limited number of fans have been allowed into baseball games and told to sit three seats apart. U.S. colleges and pro leagues are assessing how to handle fans for fall sports, including football. Already Iowa State and Notre Dame are among schools planning for stadiums far less than full. Teams are also trying to figure out ways to prevent crowds entering or leaving, and limiting people on concourses.&nbsp;

Empty seats could be prevalent at stadiums when sports returns

The Geary USD 475 Board of Education took action Monday night at the Devin Center to approve an academic calendar for the upcoming school year. Teachers would return to work on Aug. 10 and students would return one week later.

But during the meeting before the action on the academic calendar, one Board member, Dr. Anwar Khoury, surfaced the idea of a future BOE discussion on possibly beginning the school year two weeks earlier. That could leave open December and possibly early January as a period with no classes if a second COVID-19 surge develops during the normal flu season.&nbsp;

Khoury explained universities have been discussing the issue in case there is another COVID-19 cycle in the fall. "Two weeks early and we finish the school by the end of November, and this is when normally the seasonal, the flu's and all the colds and the COVID, if the best time if it's going to come it will be in December." Khoury also noted that way at least half of the school year would be complete if there is another problem with COVID-19, although he hopes one does not occur.

There was no other action on the topic Monday evening.

The Geary USD 475 Board of Education took action Monday night at the Devin Center to approve an academic calendar for the upcoming school year. Teachers would return to work on Aug. 10 and students would return one week later.But during the meeting before the action on the academic calendar, one Board member, Dr. Anwar Khoury, surfaced the idea of a future BOE discussion on possibly beginning the school year two weeks earlier. That could leave open December and possibly early January as a period with no classes if a second COVID-19 surge develops during the normal flu season.&nbsp;Khoury explained universities have been discussing the issue in case there is another COVID-19 cycle in the fall. "Two weeks early and we finish the school by the end of November, and this is when normally the seasonal, the flu's and all the colds and the COVID, if the best time if it's going to come it will be in December." Khoury also noted that way at least half of the school year would be complete if there is another problem with COVID-19, although he hopes one does not occur.There was no other action on the topic Monday evening.

One Board member talks about the idea of possibly adjusting the USD 475 calendar

WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal health authorities have received reports of nearly 26,000 nursing home residents dying from COVID-19, according to materials prepared for the nation’s governors. That number is partial and likely to go higher.

A letter from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports more than 60,000 cases of coronavirus illness among nursing home residents. A copy of the letter to governors and an accompanying chart were provided to The Associated Press.

The toll among nursing home staffers was sobering, with more than 34,400 getting sick and nearly 450 dying from the coronavirus.

“This data, and anecdotal reports across the country, clearly show that nursing homes have been devastated by the virus,” wrote CDC Director Robert Redfield and CMS Administrator Seema Verma to governors.

The numbers had been promised by the end of May, but they’re not a complete picture. The letter said the data are based on reports received as of May 24 from about 80% of the nation’s 15,400 nursing homes.

The nationwide data collection is part of an effort to assess and respond to the pandemic’s heavy toll on nursing homes. Facilities are also being required to report COVID cases to the families of residents.

CMS, which is responsible for nursing home quality standards, also told the governors it is increasing penalties for nursing homes failing to comply with longstanding infection control requirements.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d16f87a77e39f6521d3e4c59e1713a2c">federal watchdog report</a>&nbsp;last month found a “persistent” pattern of infection control problems in nursing homes even before the coronavirus. The Government Accountability Office said that about 40% of the nursing homes inspected in each of the past two years were cited for problems with infection control and prevention.

Although the first wave of the pandemic may be easing in much of the country, that doesn’t mean nursing homes are in any less danger. Experts say in a virus rebound they can again become the stage for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/0e8c1c97df30f81321fdc114437f268f">tragic scenes of death and despair</a>, as well as a risk for the broader community.

“What is going on in a nursing home can be a barometer for where the virus is,” said Tamara Konetzka, a research professor at the University of Chicago, who specializes in long-term care issues. “You’ve got to be watching out and expecting a lot of cases in that community as well.”

It’s widely agreed that prompt, methodical, ongoing testing of residents and staff is the key to making nursing homes safer, but a White House recommendation for states to test all residents within two weeks failed to produce desired results.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/681479be1d9f1a0fea4d64b1a44d5b9e">A recent AP review found a patchwork of progress</a>, with only a handful of states meeting the goal. Nationwide, about 1.4 million elderly and disabled residents live in some 15,400 facilities.

The nursing home industry says money is one of the main obstacles to widespread testing, particularly to pay for testing of staff, who number more than 1 million people. An industry trade group, the American Health Care Association, estimates it would cost $672 million for a one-time test for all residents and staff in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. And that would not solve the problem, since public health experts recommend ongoing testing.

Another hurdle is that many nursing homes don’t have established relationships with medical labs to quickly turn around results.

Mark Parkinson, head of the nursing home association, says the cost of a well-designed national testing program could reach into the billions of dollars.

“It’s very important in the next stimulus bill not to just order testing,” said Parkinson, adding that Congress needs to provide the money as well.

Federal officials at CMS have recommended a one-time test for all residents and staff, as well as weekly retesting of staff. Facilities should retest residents weekly until none test positive. CMS administrator Verma says states should use “extreme caution” before reopening nursing homes to visitors.

Some policy experts are hoping that the loss of life in nursing homes will lead state and national leaders to overhaul policies toward the industry, long a stepchild of the health care system.

“This is not a nursing home problem; this is a health system problem,” said Terry Fulmer, president of the John A. Hartford Foundation, which works to improve care for older adults. “Every system produces the outcome it is set up for. If you set up a system where the sickest and frailest people are in locations that are forgotten about and ignored, where the staff is paid less, why should that surprise anyone?”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589905440854.png" alt="There were 76 positive cases and 14 deaths reported as of May 18 at Brighton Gardens in Prairie Village, Kansas -google image" />
 <figcaption>There were 76 positive cases and 14 deaths reported as of May 18 at Brighton Gardens in Prairie Village, Kansas -google image</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal health authorities have received reports of nearly 26,000 nursing home residents dying from COVID-19, according to materials prepared for the nation’s governors. That number is partial and likely to go higher.A letter from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports more than 60,000 cases of coronavirus illness among nursing home residents. A copy of the letter to governors and an accompanying chart were provided to The Associated Press.The toll among nursing home staffers was sobering, with more than 34,400 getting sick and nearly 450 dying from the coronavirus.“This data, and anecdotal reports across the country, clearly show that nursing homes have been devastated by the virus,” wrote CDC Director Robert Redfield and CMS Administrator Seema Verma to governors.The numbers had been promised by the end of May, but they’re not a complete picture. The letter said the data are based on reports received as of May 24 from about 80% of the nation’s 15,400 nursing homes.The nationwide data collection is part of an effort to assess and respond to the pandemic’s heavy toll on nursing homes. Facilities are also being required to report COVID cases to the families of residents.CMS, which is responsible for nursing home quality standards, also told the governors it is increasing penalties for nursing homes failing to comply with longstanding infection control requirements.A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d16f87a77e39f6521d3e4c59e1713a2c">federal watchdog report</a>&nbsp;last month found a “persistent” pattern of infection control problems in nursing homes even before the coronavirus. The Government Accountability Office said that about 40% of the nursing homes inspected in each of the past two years were cited for problems with infection control and prevention.Although the first wave of the pandemic may be easing in much of the country, that doesn’t mean nursing homes are in any less danger. Experts say in a virus rebound they can again become the stage for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/0e8c1c97df30f81321fdc114437f268f">tragic scenes of death and despair</a>, as well as a risk for the broader community.“What is going on in a nursing home can be a barometer for where the virus is,” said Tamara Konetzka, a research professor at the University of Chicago, who specializes in long-term care issues. “You’ve got to be watching out and expecting a lot of cases in that community as well.”It’s widely agreed that prompt, methodical, ongoing testing of residents and staff is the key to making nursing homes safer, but a White House recommendation for states to test all residents within two weeks failed to produce desired results.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/681479be1d9f1a0fea4d64b1a44d5b9e">A recent AP review found a patchwork of progress</a>, with only a handful of states meeting the goal. Nationwide, about 1.4 million elderly and disabled residents live in some 15,400 facilities.The nursing home industry says money is one of the main obstacles to widespread testing, particularly to pay for testing of staff, who number more than 1 million people. An industry trade group, the American Health Care Association, estimates it would cost $672 million for a one-time test for all residents and staff in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. And that would not solve the problem, since public health experts recommend ongoing testing.Another hurdle is that many nursing homes don’t have established relationships with medical labs to quickly turn around results.Mark Parkinson, head of the nursing home association, says the cost of a well-designed national testing program could reach into the billions of dollars.“It’s very important in the next stimulus bill not to just order testing,” said Parkinson, adding that Congress needs to provide the money as well.Federal officials at CMS have recommended a one-time test for all residents and staff, as well as weekly retesting of staff. Facilities should retest residents weekly until none test positive. CMS administrator Verma says states should use “extreme caution” before reopening nursing homes to visitors.Some policy experts are hoping that the loss of life in nursing homes will lead state and national leaders to overhaul policies toward the industry, long a stepchild of the health care system.“This is not a nursing home problem; this is a health system problem,” said Terry Fulmer, president of the John A. Hartford Foundation, which works to improve care for older adults. “Every system produces the outcome it is set up for. If you set up a system where the sickest and frailest people are in locations that are forgotten about and ignored, where the staff is paid less, why should that surprise anyone?”

Nearly 26,000 nursing home COVID-19 deaths reported to feds

Politically, it appears that chances are good that the Kansas Legislature, all members of which stand for re-election this year, will be handed a new vehicle this week to challenge Gov. Laura Kelly’s leadership in battling coronavirus in Kansas.

Just where that vehicle goes? Well, we’ll learn later this week after lawmakers have had time to consider new legislation dealing with the governor’s authority to declare an emergency in the state and just what from a 30,000-foot level she can do to return Kansans to the lifestyles they have had for decades.

She’s already shed some of her authority to establish strict limits on just what Kansans can and can’t do while the disease is spreading. Her plan for beating the disease has been loosened, and she’s given to county health officers — and the county commissions that hire them – more authority.

It turns out that the land looks different from 30,000-feet over a county with no known cases of coronavirus and those that have had sizable outbreaks either at nursing homes or at industries that provide the paychecks that drive those counties’ economies.

Basically, look for lawmakers, who have already seen some counties stick with the governor’s recommendations to gradually reopen the economy, to have to weigh just what’s happening to their constituents – voters – and whether local control that is a key phrase for many lawmakers is going to work safely.

Oh, there are some other issues, like making sure that health care and first-responders have some logical protections from liability for assisting those stricken, or those in danger of catching, the disease. Oh, and delaying property taxes and state income tax deadlines.

But it really comes down to a couple simple issues. Lawmakers need to find the best course to allow someone – that’s someone else – to contain this pandemic while allowing cities and counties to reopen for business, to bring back jobs, to make it possible for everyone to make their house and car payments and get on with life in a social-distanced environment.

Now, if you are a legislator, it makes sense to hand that return to Kansas as we know it to someone else. And the choices go two ways. It’s either gubernatorial level control over reducing the dangers of the disease, or it is bringing that control down to the local level. Kelly has already reduced her plan to “suggestions.”

And local control sounds good. But if one county opens the restaurants and bars and the neighboring county doesn’t, or has made it so difficult to operate at a profitable level with the distancing and masks and shields that you have to drive across a county line for that anniversary dinner, have you really dealt with the statewide issue of containing COVID-19?

That’s likely to be the choice for lawmakers later this week. Every member has his/her own district and constituents, but they all live in the same state.

Oh, there are some controversial issues to be dealt with, but they aren’t generally headline-grabbers. Like liability, always a hot dinner-table topic. Can you not return to work and still get unemployment benefits if it’s dangerous or your employer doesn’t demand masks and gloves and social distancing? Can you really delay your county property tax and state income tax payments until you are working again?

And, of course, what comes down to public health and what comes down to local political/business issues of voters and campaign contributors.

Syndicated by Hawver News Company LLC of Topeka; Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report—to learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hawvernews.com/" target="_blank">www.hawvernews.com</a>

By Martin HawverPolitically, it appears that chances are good that the Kansas Legislature, all members of which stand for re-election this year, will be handed a new vehicle this week to challenge Gov. Laura Kelly’s leadership in battling coronavirus in Kansas.Just where that vehicle goes? Well, we’ll learn later this week after lawmakers have had time to consider new legislation dealing with the governor’s authority to declare an emergency in the state and just what from a 30,000-foot level she can do to return Kansans to the lifestyles they have had for decades.She’s already shed some of her authority to establish strict limits on just what Kansans can and can’t do while the disease is spreading. Her plan for beating the disease has been loosened, and she’s given to county health officers — and the county commissions that hire them – more authority.It turns out that the land looks different from 30,000-feet over a county with no known cases of coronavirus and those that have had sizable outbreaks either at nursing homes or at industries that provide the paychecks that drive those counties’ economies.Basically, look for lawmakers, who have already seen some counties stick with the governor’s recommendations to gradually reopen the economy, to have to weigh just what’s happening to their constituents – voters – and whether local control that is a key phrase for many lawmakers is going to work safely.Oh, there are some other issues, like making sure that health care and first-responders have some logical protections from liability for assisting those stricken, or those in danger of catching, the disease. Oh, and delaying property taxes and state income tax deadlines.But it really comes down to a couple simple issues. Lawmakers need to find the best course to allow someone – that’s someone else – to contain this pandemic while allowing cities and counties to reopen for business, to bring back jobs, to make it possible for everyone to make their house and car payments and get on with life in a social-distanced environment.Now, if you are a legislator, it makes sense to hand that return to Kansas as we know it to someone else. And the choices go two ways. It’s either gubernatorial level control over reducing the dangers of the disease, or it is bringing that control down to the local level. Kelly has already reduced her plan to “suggestions.”And local control sounds good. But if one county opens the restaurants and bars and the neighboring county doesn’t, or has made it so difficult to operate at a profitable level with the distancing and masks and shields that you have to drive across a county line for that anniversary dinner, have you really dealt with the statewide issue of containing COVID-19?That’s likely to be the choice for lawmakers later this week. Every member has his/her own district and constituents, but they all live in the same state.Oh, there are some controversial issues to be dealt with, but they aren’t generally headline-grabbers. Like liability, always a hot dinner-table topic. Can you not return to work and still get unemployment benefits if it’s dangerous or your employer doesn’t demand masks and gloves and social distancing? Can you really delay your county property tax and state income tax payments until you are working again?And, of course, what comes down to public health and what comes down to local political/business issues of voters and campaign contributors.We’ll see how this goes…Syndicated by Hawver News Company LLC of Topeka; Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report—to learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hawvernews.com/" target="_blank">www.hawvernews.com</a>

At the Rail

The annual Juneteenth Celebration will not be held in Junction City this year, said spokesman Jim Sands. "As much as we wanted to go forward with Juneteenth we just couldn't. This virus ( COVID-19 ) , it's killing people not just making them sick. " Sands added organizers just didn't want to take a chance.&nbsp;

Sands said they are following advice. "We're going by what the governor said, we're going by what the scientists and the doctors are saying. We just don't want to take a chance on infecting anyone."

This would have been the 23rd annual Juneteenth Celebration. It was scheduled June 12th and 13th in Heritage Park. Sands confirmed it will continue next year.

The annual Juneteenth Celebration will not be held in Junction City this year, said spokesman Jim Sands. "As much as we wanted to go forward with Juneteenth we just couldn't. This virus ( COVID-19 ) , it's killing people not just making them sick. " Sands added organizers just didn't want to take a chance.&nbsp;Sands said they are following advice. "We're going by what the governor said, we're going by what the scientists and the doctors are saying. We just don't want to take a chance on infecting anyone."This would have been the 23rd annual Juneteenth Celebration. It was scheduled June 12th and 13th in Heritage Park. Sands confirmed it will continue next year.

Juneteenth Celebration in Junction City is cancelled for this year

There will be a long term planning session for the Geary County Fish &amp; Game Association Monday evening, June 1st, at 6:30 p.m. at Sportsman's Acres.

The discussion will be focused on setting dates for activities and events over the next 18 months, identifying resources, deciding whether to continue existing activities and adding new ones. While all board members should attend, any Fish &amp; Game Association members are welcome and their ideas and input are needed.

The meeting to discuss future events and activities was set back in March, but due COVID-19 restrictions had to be postponed. Many of the Association's spring events had to be cancelled or postponed, but with the reopening proceeding the Association can now determine what they will be able to do and can set the dates.

There will be a long term planning session for the Geary County Fish &amp; Game Association Monday evening, June 1st, at 6:30 p.m. at Sportsman's Acres.The discussion will be focused on setting dates for activities and events over the next 18 months, identifying resources, deciding whether to continue existing activities and adding new ones. While all board members should attend, any Fish &amp; Game Association members are welcome and their ideas and input are needed.The meeting to discuss future events and activities was set back in March, but due COVID-19 restrictions had to be postponed. Many of the Association's spring events had to be cancelled or postponed, but with the reopening proceeding the Association can now determine what they will be able to do and can set the dates.

Long term planning meeting set for the Geary County Fish & Game Association

Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel confirmed this past week that there are plans to open the Municipal Swimming Pool later in June. " We definitely want to be open by the 20th ( June )&nbsp; now. "&nbsp;

The Governor's former Phase Two modified reopening plan limited attendance for mass gatherings to 15 people, but that has now been lifted and the county limit is 50 people."Officials aren't ready to open the pool yet for safety reasons. Dinkel also noted that they also still need to get lifeguards trained.&nbsp;

The City Manager commented that in many cases cities aren't opening pools for financial reasons. "Fortunately I think we are in better shape than some in how we did our budgeting and how we approached some things. "Dinkel expects some decline in sales tax revenues but not as great as larger cities with more dependency on sales tax.

Dinkel is targeting the June 18-20 time frame for reopening the Municipal Swimming Pool.

Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel confirmed this past week that there are plans to open the Municipal Swimming Pool later in June. " We definitely want to be open by the 20th ( June )&nbsp; now. "&nbsp;The Governor's former Phase Two modified reopening plan limited attendance for mass gatherings to 15 people, but that has now been lifted and the county limit is 50 people."Officials aren't ready to open the pool yet for safety reasons. Dinkel also noted that they also still need to get lifeguards trained.&nbsp;The City Manager commented that in many cases cities aren't opening pools for financial reasons. "Fortunately I think we are in better shape than some in how we did our budgeting and how we approached some things. "Dinkel expects some decline in sales tax revenues but not as great as larger cities with more dependency on sales tax.Dinkel is targeting the June 18-20 time frame for reopening the Municipal Swimming Pool.

City of Junction City is working on plans to reopen the Municipal Swimming Pool this summer

After the COVID-19 pandemic forced break the staff of the Geary County Historical Society return to work this upcoming week to make preparations the eventual reopening of the Historical Museum. Society President Florence Whitebread said the building will not be open but staff will be working there. "They are going to have to do some readjustments of some of our displays. We had a lot of hands-on displays, which for awhile will be hands-off because we can't have everybody putting their hands on these things at this time with the coronavirus."

Whitebread explained the staff will spend the next two week getting the building prepared, and they'll respond to requests for information received during the pandemic. "On the 16th they plan to open again to the public, however it will be by appointment only so people need to call 238-1666 and schedule a time to come in or they can email at gearycounty@gmail.com and set up an appointment to visit the museum and come in and see the displays that we have."

Historical Society Director Katie Goerl provided more information on the reopening earlier last week.&nbsp;Only one party of visitors will be allowed in the building at a time, and staff will sanitize the building between visitors. For everyone's safety, visitors will be required to wear a mask, and so will all staff members interacting with the public. Hand sanitizing stations will be available throughout the museum, and our popular "hands-on" displays will be "hands-off" for the duration of the pandemic.

Throughout the month of June,&nbsp;staff will monitor public health recommendations and local risk factors to determine when it is appropriate to open the doors to walk-in visitors again. Until then their usual volunteers will not be available to interact with the public.

After the COVID-19 pandemic forced break the staff of the Geary County Historical Society return to work this upcoming week to make preparations the eventual reopening of the Historical Museum. Society President Florence Whitebread said the building will not be open but staff will be working there. "They are going to have to do some readjustments of some of our displays. We had a lot of hands-on displays, which for awhile will be hands-off because we can't have everybody putting their hands on these things at this time with the coronavirus."Whitebread explained the staff will spend the next two week getting the building prepared, and they'll respond to requests for information received during the pandemic. "On the 16th they plan to open again to the public, however it will be by appointment only so people need to call 238-1666 and schedule a time to come in or they can email at gearycounty@gmail.com and set up an appointment to visit the museum and come in and see the displays that we have."Historical Society Director Katie Goerl provided more information on the reopening earlier last week.&nbsp;Only one party of visitors will be allowed in the building at a time, and staff will sanitize the building between visitors. For everyone's safety, visitors will be required to wear a mask, and so will all staff members interacting with the public. Hand sanitizing stations will be available throughout the museum, and our popular "hands-on" displays will be "hands-off" for the duration of the pandemic.Throughout the month of June,&nbsp;staff will monitor public health recommendations and local risk factors to determine when it is appropriate to open the doors to walk-in visitors again. Until then their usual volunteers will not be available to interact with the public.

Work is set to begin to prepare for the reopening of the Geary County Historical Museum

Struggling to provide healthy food for your young child during the COVID-19 crisis? The Geary County Health Department said if you or another member of your family has lost income due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be eligible for nutritional and breastfeeding support from WIC! 

WIC ( Women Infant Children ) provides healthy foods that pregnant and postpartum women, babies, and young children need. We are currently enrolling new WIC clients over the phone, so you do not need to come into the clinic. Please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.signupwic.com/?fbclid=IwAR1n6Opo3FX38_YtKWNLKH7b8DlsNHMULmnUHhMb42OslmLIjhifWMO9qt8" target="_blank">www.signupwic.com</a>&nbsp;to find the phone number of your local clinic. WIC is here for you!Health Dept – 785-762-5682Konza – 785-238-4711

Struggling to provide healthy food for your young child during the COVID-19 crisis? The Geary County Health Department said if you or another member of your family has lost income due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be eligible for nutritional and breastfeeding support from WIC! WIC ( Women Infant Children ) provides healthy foods that pregnant and postpartum women, babies, and young children need. We are currently enrolling new WIC clients over the phone, so you do not need to come into the clinic. Please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.signupwic.com/?fbclid=IwAR1n6Opo3FX38_YtKWNLKH7b8DlsNHMULmnUHhMb42OslmLIjhifWMO9qt8" target="_blank">www.signupwic.com</a>&nbsp;to find the phone number of your local clinic. WIC is here for you!Health Dept – 785-762-5682Konza – 785-238-4711<figure>
 <img src="https://scontent.fmci1-3.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-0/p417x417/100697306_10157476268481452_2350379990417145856_o.jpg?_nc_cat=107&amp;_nc_sid=8024bb&amp;_nc_ohc=2Mr_D1OGrM0AX87T-eU&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.fmci1-3.fna&amp;_nc_tp=6&amp;oh=2f852c4ea4e67caa27dccb981425da34&amp;oe=5EFA9B6C" alt="" />
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Support is available through WIC

There were new developments in the Farmer's Market planning Friday afternoon. According to Shannon Rosauer, Live Well Geary County volunteer, the Health Department has given approval to plan a Farmer's Market for Junction City. It will be held in the Geary Community Hospital parking lot with a start date still to be determined.&nbsp;

Other details remain to be worked out, but Rosauer indicated all social distancing and booth spacing requirements with COVID-19 reopening guidelines would be followed. At this point she anticipates the final product will be smaller than the Farmer's Markets in year's past and there could be some virtual market activity as well, but final decisions are still pending. Planning continues on this effort which took a step forward Friday afternoon.

Do not expect the traditional large outdoor Farmer's Market outside Geary Community Hospital this year due to COVID-19. However there is some effort underway to provide some alternatives with Health Department and Live Well Geary County working on that project.

Shannon Rosauer, a volunteer with Live Well Geary County, said they're reaching out to the vendors who normally come to those farmer's markets. "We plan to offer a place where at the very least people can go online and find those vendors that they know and love."

Rosauer noted that there are also some discussions about doing a small in-person farmer's market, but that is unclear at this point. In year's past the Farmer's Market ran June through September, but the extent of a market and possible dates for this year are still to be determined.

Rosauer said the Manhattan Farmer's Market is occurring on Saturday's from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. with the 8-9 a.m. hour reserved for shopping by the higher risk population. Social distancing is being practiced. The market is held near the Dillards parking lot outside the Town Center mall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590766373877.jpeg" alt="Farmer's market photo - 2019" />
 <figcaption>Farmer's market photo - 2019</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostUPDATE:There were new developments in the Farmer's Market planning Friday afternoon. According to Shannon Rosauer, Live Well Geary County volunteer, the Health Department has given approval to plan a Farmer's Market for Junction City. It will be held in the Geary Community Hospital parking lot with a start date still to be determined.&nbsp;Other details remain to be worked out, but Rosauer indicated all social distancing and booth spacing requirements with COVID-19 reopening guidelines would be followed. At this point she anticipates the final product will be smaller than the Farmer's Markets in year's past and there could be some virtual market activity as well, but final decisions are still pending. Planning continues on this effort which took a step forward Friday afternoon.-----Do not expect the traditional large outdoor Farmer's Market outside Geary Community Hospital this year due to COVID-19. However there is some effort underway to provide some alternatives with Health Department and Live Well Geary County working on that project.Shannon Rosauer, a volunteer with Live Well Geary County, said they're reaching out to the vendors who normally come to those farmer's markets. "We plan to offer a place where at the very least people can go online and find those vendors that they know and love."Rosauer noted that there are also some discussions about doing a small in-person farmer's market, but that is unclear at this point. In year's past the Farmer's Market ran June through September, but the extent of a market and possible dates for this year are still to be determined.Rosauer said the Manhattan Farmer's Market is occurring on Saturday's from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. with the 8-9 a.m. hour reserved for shopping by the higher risk population. Social distancing is being practiced. The market is held near the Dillards parking lot outside the Town Center mall.

Expect some sort of Farmer's Market in Junction City this year

Swimming pools are expected to be open on Fort Riley this summer. Garrison Commander Col. Stephen Shrader told a Town Hall audience this week that the Army is not planning on opening pools on the installation. "Obviously we're going to continue to assess the situation as we go forward in conjunction with the state and the environment here. But right now no!"

Shrader noted that Corvias will not open their community pools in the five housing areas. "Our Custer Hill pool has got some maintenance work that we've got to do on it anyway so even if we were going to fire it up we would keep that one closed because it's got some warranty repairs that need to be executed on it."

Shrader added that Eyester Pool and Long Pool on Custer Hill will also stay closed for the forseeable future. "That's not something that we're comfortable yet based off the environment to open back up to family members and service members on the installation.

Swimming pools are expected to be open on Fort Riley this summer. Garrison Commander Col. Stephen Shrader told a Town Hall audience this week that the Army is not planning on opening pools on the installation. "Obviously we're going to continue to assess the situation as we go forward in conjunction with the state and the environment here. But right now no!"Shrader noted that Corvias will not open their community pools in the five housing areas. "Our Custer Hill pool has got some maintenance work that we've got to do on it anyway so even if we were going to fire it up we would keep that one closed because it's got some warranty repairs that need to be executed on it."Shrader added that Eyester Pool and Long Pool on Custer Hill will also stay closed for the forseeable future. "That's not something that we're comfortable yet based off the environment to open back up to family members and service members on the installation.

Fort Riley swimming pools are scheduled to remain closed this summer

O'FALLON, Mo. (AP) — Great Clips has temporarily closed its salons in Springfield, Missouri, after threatening messages that followed news that two hairstylists potentially exposed 140 clients to the coronavirus.

Great Clips Inc., which has thousands of franchises in the U.S. and Canada, said in a statement Thursday that its locations in Springfield decided to close after “repeated threats.”

“To protect the safety of everyone, the local franchisees made the decision to temporarily close salons in the Springfield area," the statement read. "They are working closely with law enforcement officials as the officials conduct a thorough investigation of these threats.”

It wasn't immediately clear how many stores were closed or when they'll reopen. The company didn't respond to emails seeking further information.

The Springfield-Greene County Health Department&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/0abab24fa86efb702a259185e3074273">announced last week</a>&nbsp;that a hairstylist at Great Clips served 84 clients over eight days in mid-May while experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus.

O'FALLON, Mo. (AP) — Great Clips has temporarily closed its salons in Springfield, Missouri, after threatening messages that followed news that two hairstylists potentially exposed 140 clients to the coronavirus.Great Clips Inc., which has thousands of franchises in the U.S. and Canada, said in a statement Thursday that its locations in Springfield decided to close after “repeated threats.”“To protect the safety of everyone, the local franchisees made the decision to temporarily close salons in the Springfield area," the statement read. "They are working closely with law enforcement officials as the officials conduct a thorough investigation of these threats.”It wasn't immediately clear how many stores were closed or when they'll reopen. The company didn't respond to emails seeking further information.The Springfield-Greene County Health Department&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/0abab24fa86efb702a259185e3074273">announced last week</a>&nbsp;that a hairstylist at Great Clips served 84 clients over eight days in mid-May while experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus.A co-worker of that stylist is now sick, and the health department said 56 other clients were potentially exposed by the second stylist from May 16 to May 20.The stylists and all of their clients wore face masks, health officials said. All of the clients were being tested and Goddard said some results were expected to be announced Friday.Springfield police spokeswoman Jasmine Bailey said the first threat came from a Facebook message to an employee on Saturday. The second threat was phoned to a salon Wednesday.Bailey said that in both cases, the messages “were threatening to shut the place down" because the stylists potentially exposed people to the virus. She declined to give further details.Bailey said it was too soon the know if the threats came from the same person.Salons were allowed to reopen in Missouri under&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/9282e2eb4a4b53871dc1f0103c12ab9a">Gov. Mike Parson’s order&nbsp;</a>that went into effect May 5, despite concerns from some about the close proximity required for barbers and hairstylists to work with their clients.In Michigan, an appeals court on Thursday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/04017ef299916dad882b3afa8782df37">ordered a barber to close</a>&nbsp;and to stop defying that state’s coronavirus restrictions. The barber, 77-year-old Karl Manke, said he didn’t intend to comply.Greene County, which includes Springfield, has had 128 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and seven deaths during the pandemic, according to the Springfield-Greene County Health Department.About 27,000 Missourians applied for unemployment benefits last week, according to data released Thursday. Nationally, about 2.1 million Americans applied for benefits, a sign that companies are still slashing jobs, even as more businesses reopen and rehire some laid-off employees.Mayor Quinton Lucas announced updated guidelines that relax rules for businesses, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/coronavirus/article243055216.html">Kansas City Star</a>&nbsp;reported. The new guidance begins Sunday and expires July 5.Lucas said during a news conference that his order means any Kansas City business can reopen unless barred by state guidelines. He said there is no limit on the size of outdoor gatherings, but indoor gatherings must not exceed 50% of a building's capacity.Also in Kansas City, about 30 protesters outside the Jackson County Courthouse staged a “die-in” to raise concerns about evictions during the pandemic.Tenants urged Presiding Circuit Court Judge David Byrn to extend protections to renters,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/coronavirus/article243057936.html">the Kansas City Star&nbsp;</a>reported. Earlier Thursday, Lucas said his staff had also contacted Byrn’s office, pushing for an extension of the court’s eviction moratorium.Deaths from the coronavirus in Missouri have topped 700. The state health department on Thursday cited 11 new COVID-19 deaths, bringing the total to 707. It also reported 181 new confirmed cases, bringing the state's total to 12,673.Parson said he was extending the first phase of his reopening plan through June 15. It was originally scheduled to expire Sunday. He said the decision was not because of any setback but to ensure that the state is ready to move to the next phase.The first phase of the plan requires social distancing, typically 6 feet of space, though with some exceptions. Some businesses also are required to put limits on indoor occupancy. The governor has not outlined what the next phase will entail.___

Coronavirus Update