The C. L. Hoover Opera House hosted the Kansas Historic Theatre Association for its quarterly meeting on Wednesday, July 24.

Members are pictured here along with staff and Opera House Board Members.

The Association meets quarterly around the state in the member venues. They enjoyed a tour of the Opera House and the renovation of the new building. The tour was followed by lunch and a business meeting.

Following the meeting, members who chose to make the trek enjoyed a tour of the Clocktower.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722027535076.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The C. L. Hoover Opera House hosted the Kansas Historic Theatre Association for its quarterly meeting on Wednesday, July 24.Members are pictured here along with staff and Opera House Board Members.The Association meets quarterly around the state in the member venues. They enjoyed a tour of the Opera House and the renovation of the new building. The tour was followed by lunch and a business meeting.Following the meeting, members who chose to make the trek enjoyed a tour of the Clocktower.

Opera House is site for Kansas Historic Theatre Association meeting

Maj. Gen. Monte Rone told a Military Affairs Council Breakfast audience in Junction City this week that Fort Riley can't be a secret.

Rone noted that his concern is always the single soldiers finding opportunities to do things, "finding unique ways that we can take care of all our Soldiers, especially single soldiers." He told the audience that their help is needed.&nbsp;

Rone also stressed that overall priorities include taking care of the soldiers and their families, being disciplined and being trained.

On another subject the Combat Aviation Brigade is back from deployment.&nbsp;

Rone said he also loved serving as the commanding general of the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley. "We're in a special situation here in central Kansas."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722026878783.jpeg" alt="( Photo - 1st Inf. Div. ) Maj. Gen. Monte Rone&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>( Photo - 1st Inf. Div. ) Maj. Gen. Monte Rone&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillMaj. Gen. Monte Rone told a Military Affairs Council Breakfast audience in Junction City this week that Fort Riley can't be a secret.Rone noted that his concern is always the single soldiers finding opportunities to do things, "finding unique ways that we can take care of all our Soldiers, especially single soldiers." He told the audience that their help is needed.&nbsp;Rone also stressed that overall priorities include taking care of the soldiers and their families, being disciplined and being trained.On another subject the Combat Aviation Brigade is back from deployment.&nbsp;Rone said he also loved serving as the commanding general of the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley. "We're in a special situation here in central Kansas."

Commanding General discusses Fort Riley

Nate Butler was presented with a Quilt of Valor during the Military Affairs Council Breakfast in Junction City this week. The Quilt was presented in recognition of his military service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722004352137.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Nate Butler was presented with a Quilt of Valor during the Military Affairs Council Breakfast in Junction City this week. The Quilt was presented in recognition of his military service.

Butler honored during MAC Breakfast

Here is a list of the 4-H member, animal or project sold, premium paid and the businesses paying those premiums.

1. Emmy Gfeller* 27226 Blue Line 10 GrandChamp Cross $ 1,500 Central National Bank

2. Tava Gustafson 34347 Clarks Creek 10 GrandChamp Cross $ 1,375 Intrust Bank

3. Kaycee Brown 22044 Clarks Creek 7 GrandChamp Chianina $2,700 Bennington State Bank, KanEquip, NAPA - Council Grove, Manhattan Commission Co.

4. Humboldt 12 Grand Champ 4-H project sampler pack $ 600 Jeff Childs Family

5. Lyon Creek 8 GrandChamp White windmill clock $ 600 Roy Garrett

6. Elisabeth Smith Lyon Creek 4 GrandChamp Quilt $ 475 Carlyon &amp; Sons

7. Travis Leasure* Lyon Creek 10 GrandChamp Chopper mini bike $600 Agri Trails Co-op Association

Name Tag# Club in 4-H Ribbon Breed Premium Bidder

8. Charles Strauss 27234 Lyon Creek 9 ReserveChamp Speckle S1,400 Bruna Implement

Name Club in 4-H Ribbon Project Description Premium Bidder

9. Blue Line 1 Purple Chex mix $ 675 Agri Trails Co-op Association

10. Lyon Creek 1 Purple Zucchini banana bread $ 500 Astra Bank of Chapman

11. Lyon Creek 2 Purple Food gift basket $ 475 Ronnie Thomas Memorial

12. Humboldt 3 Purple Picture frame w/watercolor painting $ 300 GG Booth

13. Humboldt 3 Purple Brownie gift basket $ 500 Carlyon &amp; Sons

14. Humboldt 7 Purple Baseball basket $ 400 Vernon Bohn

15. Cody Brown* 23043 Clarks Creek 11 ReserveChamp Cross $ 2,700 PK Mechanical, Black Diamond Family Farm

16. Clara Gfeller 34362 Lyon Creek 9 BreedChamp Hampshire $ 1,000 Central National Bank

17. Gracie Erichsen 34359 Clarks Creek 10 BreedResChamp Berkshire $ 825 Agri Trails Co-op Association

18. Newt Miller 23051 Lyon Creek 8 BreedResChamp Duroc $ 850 Harris Crop Insurance

19. Hanna Miller 23050 Lyon Creek 10 BreedResChamp Spot $ 1,075 Geary Grain Inc.

20. Gracen Gfeller 34360 Lyon Creek 4 ClassChamp Cross $ 975 Hometown Insurance Agency

21. Leo Anderes 23057 Blue Line 1 ClassChamp Cross $ 1,450 Town &amp; Country Veterinary Hospital

22. Brock Nabus 23044 Humboldt 8 ClassChamp Cross $ 1,175 Heldstab Construction Co

23. Case Proietti 34351 Humboldt 5 ClassResChamp Cross $ 1,050 RE/MAX Signature Properties

24. Braden Blockcolsky 34349 Clarks Creek 6 ClassResChamp Cross $900 Broken Bar-D - Gail and Donna Martinson, Matt Machin - Farm Bureau Financial Services, First Choice Meats

25. Archer Anderes 23059 Blue Line 4 Blue Berkshire $ 1,625 Smoky Valley Ag Services

26. Ava Schmidt 34341 Blue Line 6 Blue Duroc $ 1,275 Splash-N-Dash

27. Lily Kvacik 34345 Clarks Creek 4 Blue Cross $ 850 Astra Bank of Chapman

28. Elaina Schmidt* 34372 Blue Line 12 Blue Cross $ 1,300 Central National Bank

29. Morgan Nabus 23045 Humboldt 9 Blue Cross $ 1,100 Randall Zimmerman

30. Colden Blockcolsky 34350 Clarks Creek 6 Blue Cross $ 925 Intrust Bank

31. Ryle Langvardt 34368 Blue Line 1 Red York $ 1,050 Valor Automotive

32. Grady Oentrich 34365 Humboldt 9 Red Hereford $ 1,100 Holm Automotive Center

33. Nolan Langvardt 34369 Blue Line 4 Red Cross $ 1,000 Central National Bank

40. Olivia Kline 29507 Humboldt 8 Blue Boer $ 850 Jim Clark Auto Center

41. Jared Kline 29506 Humboldt 5 Blue Boer $ 975 Elaine and Ron Dean

42. Odynn Beamer 29501 Humboldt 1 Red Commercial Mix $ 900 Bobby Miller &amp; Lisa Deibler-Miller

43. Mallory King Humboldt 3 Blue Ultimate chocolate chip cookies $ 750 Jim Clark Auto Center

44. Adrian Williams Lyon Creek 7 Blue Lemon zucchini bread $ 750 Ronnie Thomas Memorial

45. Donnigan Mueller Humboldt 3 Blue Rock City painting $ 500 Roy Garrett

46. Addison Gibson Humboldt 8 Blue Food gift package $ 450 Intrust Bank

47. Creytin Sanner Blue Line 12 Purple Summertime dessert basket $ 475 GG Booth

48. Sean Mueller Humboldt 3 Blue Garlic knot &amp; pasta basket $ 425 Holm Automotive Center, Ascher Family

49. Elena Svoboda 22052 Lyon Creek 1 BreedChamp Market heifer $ 1,350 JC Custom Harvesting

50. Ethan Goodyear 18799 Humboldt 9 BreedChamp Cross $ 1,900

51. Tyler Proietti 22051 Humboldt 7 BreedResChamp 2nd year bucket calf $ 1,000 5L Club Lambs

52. Reece Langvardt 22047 Blue Line 10 BreedResChamp Cross $ 1,550 Valor Automotive

53. Macy Goodyear 18792 Humboldt 4 ClassResChamp Cross $ 1,600

54. Cade Snider 18803 Blue Line 6 ClassResChamp Cross $ 1,700 Smoky Valley Seeds - Pioneer

55. Blake Proietti 22050 Humboldt 10 Blue Charolais $ 1,200 Flint Hills Ag Service - Channel Seeds

56. Weston Langvardt* 22048 Blue Line 12 Blue Cross $ 1,425

57. Grant Roeser 18802 Humboldt 10 Blue Cross $ 1,300 J.C. Livestock Sales, Inc.

58. Brittney Dibben 22042 Humboldt 9 Red Hereford $ 1,225 Harris Crop Insurance

59. Kourtney Dibben 22041 Humboldt 10 Red Angus $ 1,475 Elaine and Ron Dean

60. Grant Slough 22053 Lyon Creek 6 Red Cross $ 1,250 Pioneer Farm &amp; Ranch

61. Addy Snider 18804 Blue Line 4 Red Cross $ 1,875 Harris Crop Insurance

62. Caden Goodyear 18797 Humboldt 7 Red Cross $ 1,775 Black Diamond Family Farm, Manhattan Commission Co

63. Jacob Roeser 18801 Humboldt 8 Red Cross $ 1,350 Rawhide Portable Corrals

64. Arthur Strauss Lyon Creek 3 Blue Sweet potato donuts $ 400 PrairieLand Partners

65. Austin Sohnrey Humboldt 6 Blue Peanut butter bread $ 600 Abilene Termite &amp; Pest Control

66. Ava Oentrich Humboldt 12 ReserveChamp Outdoor patio table w/cooler $ 1,100 Splash-N-Dash

67.Cade McCallum Humboldt 6 Blue Bench $ 525 Chad Blockcolsky

68. Karley Kramer Humboldt 8 Purple Zucchini bread basket $ 800 Abilene Termite &amp; Pest Control

Here is a list of the 4-H member, animal or project sold, premium paid and the businesses paying those premiums.Champion Market Lamb1. Emmy Gfeller* 27226 Blue Line 10 GrandChamp Cross $ 1,500 Central National BankChampion Market Hog 2. Tava Gustafson 34347 Clarks Creek 10 GrandChamp Cross $ 1,375 Intrust BankChampion Market Beef3. Kaycee Brown 22044 Clarks Creek 7 GrandChamp Chianina $2,700 Bennington State Bank, KanEquip, NAPA - Council Grove, Manhattan Commission Co.Champion Projects4. Humboldt 12 Grand Champ 4-H project sampler pack $ 600 Jeff Childs Family5. Lyon Creek 8 GrandChamp White windmill clock $ 600 Roy Garrett6. Elisabeth Smith Lyon Creek 4 GrandChamp Quilt $ 475 Carlyon &amp; Sons7. Travis Leasure* Lyon Creek 10 GrandChamp Chopper mini bike $600 Agri Trails Co-op AssociationMarket Lamb Ear YearsName Tag# Club in 4-H Ribbon Breed Premium Bidder8. Charles Strauss 27234 Lyon Creek 9 ReserveChamp Speckle S1,400 Bruna ImplementProjects YearsName Club in 4-H Ribbon Project Description Premium Bidder9. Blue Line 1 Purple Chex mix $ 675 Agri Trails Co-op Association10. Lyon Creek 1 Purple Zucchini banana bread $ 500 Astra Bank of Chapman11. Lyon Creek 2 Purple Food gift basket $ 475 Ronnie Thomas Memorial12. Humboldt 3 Purple Picture frame w/watercolor painting $ 300 GG Booth13. Humboldt 3 Purple Brownie gift basket $ 500 Carlyon &amp; Sons14. Humboldt 7 Purple Baseball basket $ 400 Vernon BohnMarket Hogs Ear YearsName Tag# Club in 4-H Ribbon Breed Premium Bidder15. Cody Brown* 23043 Clarks Creek 11 ReserveChamp Cross $ 2,700 PK Mechanical, Black Diamond Family Farm16. Clara Gfeller 34362 Lyon Creek 9 BreedChamp Hampshire $ 1,000 Central National Bank17. Gracie Erichsen 34359 Clarks Creek 10 BreedResChamp Berkshire $ 825 Agri Trails Co-op Association18. Newt Miller 23051 Lyon Creek 8 BreedResChamp Duroc $ 850 Harris Crop Insurance19. Hanna Miller 23050 Lyon Creek 10 BreedResChamp Spot $ 1,075 Geary Grain Inc.20. Gracen Gfeller 34360 Lyon Creek 4 ClassChamp Cross $ 975 Hometown Insurance Agency21. Leo Anderes 23057 Blue Line 1 ClassChamp Cross $ 1,450 Town &amp; Country Veterinary Hospital22. Brock Nabus 23044 Humboldt 8 ClassChamp Cross $ 1,175 Heldstab Construction Co23. Case Proietti 34351 Humboldt 5 ClassResChamp Cross $ 1,050 RE/MAX Signature Properties24. Braden Blockcolsky 34349 Clarks Creek 6 ClassResChamp Cross $900 Broken Bar-D - Gail and Donna Martinson, Matt Machin - Farm Bureau Financial Services, First Choice Meats25. Archer Anderes 23059 Blue Line 4 Blue Berkshire $ 1,625 Smoky Valley Ag Services26. Ava Schmidt 34341 Blue Line 6 Blue Duroc $ 1,275 Splash-N-Dash27. Lily Kvacik 34345 Clarks Creek 4 Blue Cross $ 850 Astra Bank of Chapman28. Elaina Schmidt* 34372 Blue Line 12 Blue Cross $ 1,300 Central National Bank29. Morgan Nabus 23045 Humboldt 9 Blue Cross $ 1,100 Randall Zimmerman30. Colden Blockcolsky 34350 Clarks Creek 6 Blue Cross $ 925 Intrust Bank31. Ryle Langvardt 34368 Blue Line 1 Red York $ 1,050 Valor Automotive32. Grady Oentrich 34365 Humboldt 9 Red Hereford $ 1,100 Holm Automotive Center33. Nolan Langvardt 34369 Blue Line 4 Red Cross $ 1,000 Central National BankProjects YearsName Club in 4-H Ribbon Project Description Premium BidderMarket Goats Ear YearsName Tag# Club in 4-H Ribbon Breed Premium Bidder40. Olivia Kline 29507 Humboldt 8 Blue Boer $ 850 Jim Clark Auto Center41. Jared Kline 29506 Humboldt 5 Blue Boer $ 975 Elaine and Ron Dean42. Odynn Beamer 29501 Humboldt 1 Red Commercial Mix $ 900 Bobby Miller &amp; Lisa Deibler-Miller43. Mallory King Humboldt 3 Blue Ultimate chocolate chip cookies $ 750 Jim Clark Auto Center44. Adrian Williams Lyon Creek 7 Blue Lemon zucchini bread $ 750 Ronnie Thomas Memorial45. Donnigan Mueller Humboldt 3 Blue Rock City painting $ 500 Roy Garrett46. Addison Gibson Humboldt 8 Blue Food gift package $ 450 Intrust Bank47. Creytin Sanner Blue Line 12 Purple Summertime dessert basket $ 475 GG Booth48. Sean Mueller Humboldt 3 Blue Garlic knot &amp; pasta basket $ 425 Holm Automotive Center, Ascher Family49. Elena Svoboda 22052 Lyon Creek 1 BreedChamp Market heifer $ 1,350 JC Custom Harvesting50. Ethan Goodyear 18799 Humboldt 9 BreedChamp Cross $ 1,900Black Diamond Family Farm, CowCamp Ranch51. Tyler Proietti 22051 Humboldt 7 BreedResChamp 2nd year bucket calf $ 1,000 5L Club Lambs52. Reece Langvardt 22047 Blue Line 10 BreedResChamp Cross $ 1,550 Valor Automotive53. Macy Goodyear 18792 Humboldt 4 ClassResChamp Cross $ 1,600JC Custom Harvesting, Black DiamondFamily Farm54. Cade Snider 18803 Blue Line 6 ClassResChamp Cross $ 1,700 Smoky Valley Seeds - Pioneer55. Blake Proietti 22050 Humboldt 10 Blue Charolais $ 1,200 Flint Hills Ag Service - Channel Seeds56. Weston Langvardt* 22048 Blue Line 12 Blue Cross $ 1,425Lyon's Angus Ranch, Sink Gordon &amp;Associates57. Grant Roeser 18802 Humboldt 10 Blue Cross $ 1,300 J.C. Livestock Sales, Inc.58. Brittney Dibben 22042 Humboldt 9 Red Hereford $ 1,225 Harris Crop Insurance59. Kourtney Dibben 22041 Humboldt 10 Red Angus $ 1,475 Elaine and Ron Dean60. Grant Slough 22053 Lyon Creek 6 Red Cross $ 1,250 Pioneer Farm &amp; Ranch61. Addy Snider 18804 Blue Line 4 Red Cross $ 1,875 Harris Crop Insurance62. Caden Goodyear 18797 Humboldt 7 Red Cross $ 1,775 Black Diamond Family Farm, Manhattan Commission Co63. Jacob Roeser 18801 Humboldt 8 Red Cross $ 1,350 Rawhide Portable CorralsProjects YearsName Club in 4-H Ribbon Project Description Premium Bidder64. Arthur Strauss Lyon Creek 3 Blue Sweet potato donuts $ 400 PrairieLand Partners65. Austin Sohnrey Humboldt 6 Blue Peanut butter bread $ 600 Abilene Termite &amp; Pest Control66. Ava Oentrich Humboldt 12 ReserveChamp Outdoor patio table w/cooler $ 1,100 Splash-N-Dash67.Cade McCallum Humboldt 6 Blue Bench $ 525 Chad Blockcolsky68. Karley Kramer Humboldt 8 Purple Zucchini bread basket $ 800 Abilene Termite &amp; Pest Control* Graduating SeniorAva Oentrich*Cade McCallumKarley Kramer*Arthur StraussAustin SohnreyElaina Schmidt*

Geary County Free Fair Livestock and Project Auction Results

If you'd like to go to college, you can apply for free this fall.

Kansas Apply Free Days will be held on October 7-9, 2024.

During these three days, any Kansas resident, regardless of age or income can apply for free at any of the state's 7 public universities, 19 community colleges, 6 Technical colleges, and the 21 private member institutions of the Kansas Independent College Association. 

Eligible programs include general applications, certificate programs, associate degree programs, and bachelor degree programs. (Graduate programs or other mid-degree applications will not qualify.) 

Refer to the 2024 Apply Free Days Application Instructions for detailed institution-specific guidance on completing applications for admission.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas Board of RegentsIf you'd like to go to college, you can apply for free this fall.Kansas Apply Free Days will be held on October 7-9, 2024.During these three days, any Kansas resident, regardless of age or income can apply for free at any of the state's 7 public universities, 19 community colleges, 6 Technical colleges, and the 21 private member institutions of the Kansas Independent College Association. Eligible programs include general applications, certificate programs, associate degree programs, and bachelor degree programs. (Graduate programs or other mid-degree applications will not qualify.) Refer to the 2024 Apply Free Days Application Instructions for detailed institution-specific guidance on completing applications for admission.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Apply Free Days set for Oct. 7-9

Much of the Big Red One potentially may not be on Fort Riley in 2026 for an extended period of time. Maj. Gen. Monte Rone provided an update on the Division's planned activities during the Military Affairs Council Breakfast in Junction City. He did not elaborate on any deployments in 2026.

The 1st Brigade is currently undergoing gunnery training.

The Dagger ( 2nd ) Brigade is preparing for a National Training Center rotation in August,&nbsp;

The Fall Apple Days celebration will be Oct. 5&nbsp;

There will be a barbecue on Aug. 8 to recognize excellence in civilian volunteers.

The Division was represented in the Freedom Fest Parade in Junction City on July 4.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721942492664.jpeg" alt="( Photo - 1st Inf. Div. ) Maj. Gen. Monte Rone&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>( Photo - 1st Inf. Div. ) Maj. Gen. Monte Rone&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Much of the Big Red One potentially may not be on Fort Riley in 2026 for an extended period of time. Maj. Gen. Monte Rone provided an update on the Division's planned activities during the Military Affairs Council Breakfast in Junction City. He did not elaborate on any deployments in 2026.In 2024:The 1st Brigade is currently undergoing gunnery training.The Dagger ( 2nd ) Brigade is preparing for a National Training Center rotation in August,&nbsp;The Fall Apple Days celebration will be Oct. 5&nbsp;There will be a barbecue on Aug. 8 to recognize excellence in civilian volunteers.The Division was represented in the Freedom Fest Parade in Junction City on July 4.

2026 will be a busy year for the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley

There will be an effort to spruce up Grant Ave on the north side of Junction City.

Phyllis Fitzgerald is coordinating a volunteer cleanup on Saturday beginning at 7:30 a.m. at the boat dock / parking area near the Republican River on the north side of Junction City. The goal is to clean up the north half of Grant Ave.

The decision to develop a cleanup effort followed the announcement by Maj. Gen. Monte Rone that the Trooper Drive access control point will remain closed indefinitely. Traffic will be routed via Grant Ave. 24 hours, seven days a week.

There will be an effort to spruce up Grant Ave on the north side of Junction City.Phyllis Fitzgerald is coordinating a volunteer cleanup on Saturday beginning at 7:30 a.m. at the boat dock / parking area near the Republican River on the north side of Junction City. The goal is to clean up the north half of Grant Ave.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721944802305.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The decision to develop a cleanup effort followed the announcement by Maj. Gen. Monte Rone that the Trooper Drive access control point will remain closed indefinitely. Traffic will be routed via Grant Ave. 24 hours, seven days a week.

Cleanup effort will be conducted on Grant Avenue

The Geary Community Healthcare Foundation is hosting its 24th annual Fall Classic Golf Tournament. The GCHF golf tournament will be on Friday, September 20, at Rolling Meadows Golf Course.

To participate, each player must be over 21 years of age. For a single player, registration is $110. For a team of four, the registration fee is $440. The Geary Community Healthcare Foundation Golf Tournament will raise funds for the Reviving a Life Project in Geary County.

With registration,  a gift bag, snacks, soft drinks, water, and beer are provided. Lunch will be assisted by the Junction City Fire Department, and a steak dinner will be sponsored by Hi Tech Interiors. There will also be a raffle, cash, and hole prizes for winners.

For more information or to be a hole sponsor, contact Executive Director Tracy Geisler at geislert@gchcf.org or (785) 770-2685.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721938980971.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Geary Community Healthcare Foundation is hosting its 24th annual Fall Classic Golf Tournament. The GCHF golf tournament will be on Friday, September 20, at Rolling Meadows Golf Course.To participate, each player must be over 21 years of age. For a single player, registration is $110. For a team of four, the registration fee is $440. The Geary Community Healthcare Foundation Golf Tournament will raise funds for the Reviving a Life Project in Geary County.With registration, a gift bag, snacks, soft drinks, water, and beer are provided. Lunch will be assisted by the Junction City Fire Department, and a steak dinner will be sponsored by Hi Tech Interiors. There will also be a raffle, cash, and hole prizes for winners.For more information or to be a hole sponsor, contact Executive Director Tracy Geisler at geislert@gchcf.org or (785) 770-2685.

Geary Community Healthcare Foundation Fall Classic set for Sept. 20

Trooper Access Control Point, which provides one of the access points to Junction City from Fort Riley, has been closed for construction and will remain closed for the foreseeable future.&nbsp;

The 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley have determined that the Trooper Access Control Point (ACP) will not reopen at this time. This decision is based on military training and personnel requirements. The Grant ACP, which provides access to post from Junction City via Grant Avenue, will remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The command continues to monitor traffic patterns and flow through all gates and will reassess the closure at a later date.

The information was provided by the Commanding general of the 1st Infantry Division, Maj. Gen. Monte Rone during the Military Affairs Council Breakfast in Junction City on Friday. Trooper Access Control Point is just north of Junction City.

Trooper Access Control Point, which provides one of the access points to Junction City from Fort Riley, has been closed for construction and will remain closed for the foreseeable future.&nbsp;The 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley have determined that the Trooper Access Control Point (ACP) will not reopen at this time. This decision is based on military training and personnel requirements. The Grant ACP, which provides access to post from Junction City via Grant Avenue, will remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.The command continues to monitor traffic patterns and flow through all gates and will reassess the closure at a later date.The information was provided by the Commanding general of the 1st Infantry Division, Maj. Gen. Monte Rone during the Military Affairs Council Breakfast in Junction City on Friday. Trooper Access Control Point is just north of Junction City.

Fort Riley’s Trooper Access Control Point Will Remain Closed

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

Joshua Cotner, Failure to appear, arrested 07/24

Roseanna Bullard, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, Outside warrant, arrested 07/24

Cody Clark, Failure to appear, arrested 07/24

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721914610029.jpeg" alt="Valaun Turner, Unlawful damage to property; Criminal trespass, arrested 07/24" />
 <figcaption>Valaun Turner, Unlawful damage to property; Criminal trespass, arrested 07/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721914655806.jpeg" alt="Angel Pagan, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 07/24" />
 <figcaption>Angel Pagan, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 07/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721914848825.jpeg" alt="Tevin King, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 07/24" />
 <figcaption>Tevin King, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 07/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721914965161.jpeg" alt="Jessica Rojas Urbina, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Distribute controlled substance, arrested 07/24" />
 <figcaption>Jessica Rojas Urbina, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Distribute controlled substance, arrested 07/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721915035315.jpeg" alt="Daizha Brooks, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, Distribute controlled substance, arrested 07/24" />
 <figcaption>Daizha Brooks, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, Distribute controlled substance, arrested 07/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721915120632.jpeg" alt="Daniel Pena, Distribute controlled substance, arrested 07/24" />
 <figcaption>Daniel Pena, Distribute controlled substance, arrested 07/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721915157555.jpeg" alt="Kaylene Sheffield, Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked, arrested 07/24" />
 <figcaption>Kaylene Sheffield, Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked, arrested 07/24</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Joshua Cotner, Failure to appear, arrested 07/24Roseanna Bullard, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, Outside warrant, arrested 07/24Cody Clark, Failure to appear, arrested 07/24Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos July 25

On Wednesday, July 24, Junction City Police Department’s Assistant Chief of Police, Cory Odell met with the JC Breakfast Optimist Club members at Jim Clark’s Chevrolet showroom on Goldenbelt Boulevard. Cory grew up in a small town north of Corcordia, Kansas. His studies in college prepared him to be a band director until he did his student teaching. His internship as a music major helped him decide that teaching elementary students to play a band instrument was not a career he wanted to pursue.

Cory worked on a farm and became interested in criminal justice. He holds degrees from Kansas Wesleyan and the University of Cincinnati in that area of concentration.

His cousin is City Commissioner Rona Larson. She invited him to visit the Junction City Police Department and take a ride-along one evening. “That hooked me. I knew from that point that

I would make law enforcement my career”, he said. Since joining the department, Cory has held all positions except that of being a School Resource Officer. “ Most of my experience has been in investigations”, Cory added. He is also a court recognized expert on sex trafficking and sexual exploitation of children.

The Assistant Police Chief told the Optimist Club members that “some of the goals of the new administration is to do more community outreach; rotate shifts so that no one officer is locked into working only days or only nights and recruitment of officers”.

Establishing and maintaining positive relationships and involving community members in the interview process of captains and above for instance has been put in place. That process has had a positive impact on not only those being interviewed, but also the citizens and others who have been involved. He said “We used a business model for recent candidate interviews and included the JC Human Resources Department, a member of a civic organization, a representative from a local church, USD 475 and a retired person. None of these people had law enforcement experience. The second step in the process candidates interviewed with members from the KBI, Fort Riley, Riley County and the Abilene Police Departments and the final interviews will be conducted by the JCPD Police Chief in a one to one situation, Cory stated.

By Dr. Ferrell MillerJC Breakfast OptimistsOn Wednesday, July 24, Junction City Police Department’s Assistant Chief of Police, Cory Odell met with the JC Breakfast Optimist Club members at Jim Clark’s Chevrolet showroom on Goldenbelt Boulevard. Cory grew up in a small town north of Corcordia, Kansas. His studies in college prepared him to be a band director until he did his student teaching. His internship as a music major helped him decide that teaching elementary students to play a band instrument was not a career he wanted to pursue.Cory worked on a farm and became interested in criminal justice. He holds degrees from Kansas Wesleyan and the University of Cincinnati in that area of concentration.His cousin is City Commissioner Rona Larson. She invited him to visit the Junction City Police Department and take a ride-along one evening. “That hooked me. I knew from that point thatI would make law enforcement my career”, he said. Since joining the department, Cory has held all positions except that of being a School Resource Officer. “ Most of my experience has been in investigations”, Cory added. He is also a court recognized expert on sex trafficking and sexual exploitation of children.The Assistant Police Chief told the Optimist Club members that “some of the goals of the new administration is to do more community outreach; rotate shifts so that no one officer is locked into working only days or only nights and recruitment of officers”.Establishing and maintaining positive relationships and involving community members in the interview process of captains and above for instance has been put in place. That process has had a positive impact on not only those being interviewed, but also the citizens and others who have been involved. He said “We used a business model for recent candidate interviews and included the JC Human Resources Department, a member of a civic organization, a representative from a local church, USD 475 and a retired person. None of these people had law enforcement experience. The second step in the process candidates interviewed with members from the KBI, Fort Riley, Riley County and the Abilene Police Departments and the final interviews will be conducted by the JCPD Police Chief in a one to one situation, Cory stated.

JC Breakfast Optimist Club Members Met The JCPD Assistant Chief of Police

Fort Riley will host the 6th annual Bow Slinger 3-D archery tournament Aug. 17, and it’s open to the public. The course features 30 three-dimensional targets, including “Bigfoot of the Flint Hills.” Archers of all ages are invited to compete in any of seven different categories. There will not be a separate category for youth.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Registration is open at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://riley.armymwr.com/">riley.armymwr.com</a>. Competitors can also sign up at Fort Riley’s Outdoor Adventure Park, 5202 Normandy Drive. The cost ranges from $40 to $50, depending on the category.&nbsp; The top shooters in each category will win cash prizes. Archers must bring their own equipment. Registration fees increase $15 after Aug. 1. Pre-registration is required.&nbsp;

Check-in will begin at 7 a.m. the day of the tournament, with a mandatory shooter’s meeting at 8:30 and the tournament start at 9 a.m. The Belay Cafe will be open to purchase food from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Participants who do not have a DOD-ID card, but do have a REAL ID compliant driver’s license, can apply in advance for a visitor’s pass online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://pass.aie.army.mil/riley">https://pass.aie.army.mil/riley</a>. Applying at least two days in advance is recommended. Visitors can apply for a pass in person at the Fort Riley Visitor Control Center at Exit 301 off I-70. Pick up your visitor pass by Aug. 16, as the visitor control center opens at 8 a.m. on weekends. For questions about accessing Fort Riley, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://home.army.mil/riley">home.army.mil/riley</a>&nbsp;or call 785-239-2982.&nbsp;

For more information about Fort Riley’s one-of-a-kind archery tournament, call 785-239-5412.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721851233557.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fort Riley will host the 6th annual Bow Slinger 3-D archery tournament Aug. 17, and it’s open to the public. The course features 30 three-dimensional targets, including “Bigfoot of the Flint Hills.” Archers of all ages are invited to compete in any of seven different categories. There will not be a separate category for youth.&nbsp;&nbsp;Registration is open at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://riley.armymwr.com/">riley.armymwr.com</a>. Competitors can also sign up at Fort Riley’s Outdoor Adventure Park, 5202 Normandy Drive. The cost ranges from $40 to $50, depending on the category.&nbsp; The top shooters in each category will win cash prizes. Archers must bring their own equipment. Registration fees increase $15 after Aug. 1. Pre-registration is required.&nbsp;Check-in will begin at 7 a.m. the day of the tournament, with a mandatory shooter’s meeting at 8:30 and the tournament start at 9 a.m. The Belay Cafe will be open to purchase food from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;Participants who do not have a DOD-ID card, but do have a REAL ID compliant driver’s license, can apply in advance for a visitor’s pass online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://pass.aie.army.mil/riley">https://pass.aie.army.mil/riley</a>. Applying at least two days in advance is recommended. Visitors can apply for a pass in person at the Fort Riley Visitor Control Center at Exit 301 off I-70. Pick up your visitor pass by Aug. 16, as the visitor control center opens at 8 a.m. on weekends. For questions about accessing Fort Riley, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://home.army.mil/riley">home.army.mil/riley</a>&nbsp;or call 785-239-2982.&nbsp;For more information about Fort Riley’s one-of-a-kind archery tournament, call 785-239-5412.&nbsp;

Fort Riley to host 6th annual Bow Slinger Archery Tournament 

The Geary USD 475 Board of Education recently approved the hiring of Amanda Cunningham and Lisa Ledbetter to assistant principal positions within the district for the 2024-25 school year.&nbsp;

Cunningham will take over as an assistant principal at Seitz Elementary during the 2024-25 school year after teaching fifth grade for the Dragons this past school year. She has taught in Kansas, Indiana, Texas, Germany and Washington. Prior to her time in USD 475, Cunningham taught sixth grade English Language Arts and math intervention at Clark Pleasant Middle School in Indiana.&nbsp;From 2015 to 2021, Cunningham worked for Killeen ISD in Texas where she was a nominee for Teacher of the Year because of her work in the classroom teaching multiple grades at Montague Village Elementary. Other stops&nbsp;during her tenure included being a substitute teacher in Germany, while also working with ASB - Associated Student Body, AVID and several other programs at Kilo Middle School in Washington. Cunningham graduated from Washington State University in 2004. She later received her master’s degree from Texas State University in 2018.

Ledbetter will be an assistant principal at Junction City Middle School this fall after moving to USD 475 from Virginia where she worked as a high impact mathematics tutor at Fairfax County Public Schools in Falls Church, Va., in 2024. Prior to her time in Virginia, Ledbetter spent time at Vernon Parish School Board in Louisiana where she was an instructional coach at North Polk Elementary before transitioning to being a seventh and eighth-grade mathematics teacher and intervention coordinator during the 2022-23 school year at Leesville Junior High.

Ledbetter, who was a high school mathematics teacher at Cornerstone Christian School in San Angelo, Texas, spent time at Lake View High School in San Angelo where she was not only the math department head, but also taught Pre-AP&nbsp;classes and several other high school math classes from 2016 through 2019. During her tenure, Ledbetter has also taught at R.L. Turner High School in Texas and has had stops at Pansy Kidd Middle School and Bokoshe Public Schools in Oklahoma where she was the 2011-12 District Teacher of the Year.&nbsp;

By Matt Hoover&nbsp;USD 475 Communications CoordinatorThe Geary USD 475 Board of Education recently approved the hiring of Amanda Cunningham and Lisa Ledbetter to assistant principal positions within the district for the 2024-25 school year.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721851996630.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Cunningham will take over as an assistant principal at Seitz Elementary during the 2024-25 school year after teaching fifth grade for the Dragons this past school year. She has taught in Kansas, Indiana, Texas, Germany and Washington. Prior to her time in USD 475, Cunningham taught sixth grade English Language Arts and math intervention at Clark Pleasant Middle School in Indiana.&nbsp;From 2015 to 2021, Cunningham worked for Killeen ISD in Texas where she was a nominee for Teacher of the Year because of her work in the classroom teaching multiple grades at Montague Village Elementary. Other stops&nbsp;during her tenure included being a substitute teacher in Germany, while also working with ASB - Associated Student Body, AVID and several other programs at Kilo Middle School in Washington. Cunningham graduated from Washington State University in 2004. She later received her master’s degree from Texas State University in 2018.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721851923077.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ledbetter will be an assistant principal at Junction City Middle School this fall after moving to USD 475 from Virginia where she worked as a high impact mathematics tutor at Fairfax County Public Schools in Falls Church, Va., in 2024. Prior to her time in Virginia, Ledbetter spent time at Vernon Parish School Board in Louisiana where she was an instructional coach at North Polk Elementary before transitioning to being a seventh and eighth-grade mathematics teacher and intervention coordinator during the 2022-23 school year at Leesville Junior High.Ledbetter, who was a high school mathematics teacher at Cornerstone Christian School in San Angelo, Texas, spent time at Lake View High School in San Angelo where she was not only the math department head, but also taught Pre-AP&nbsp;classes and several other high school math classes from 2016 through 2019. During her tenure, Ledbetter has also taught at R.L. Turner High School in Texas and has had stops at Pansy Kidd Middle School and Bokoshe Public Schools in Oklahoma where she was the 2011-12 District Teacher of the Year.&nbsp;

USD 475 Announces New Assistant Principal Hires

KU Medical Center For more than a decade, amateur and professional photographers have helped Rural Health Education and Services showcase the beauty found in our beloved Kansas communities. These photos have led us to the far corners of the State, transported us to unique landmarks, introduced us to new friends and neighbors, and helped us rediscover the beauty in our own backyards. Most importantly, they have helped us promote the rich history and beauty of Kansas to our future health care providers.

We are excited to partner with&nbsp;<a href="https://kec.coop/kcl" target="_blank">Kansas Country Living</a>&nbsp;magazine for the sixth year in a row. Kansas Country Living is designed to educate Kansas electric cooperative consumer-members on topics that impact rural electrification. With a circulation of more than 133,000, it is an integral communications channel that builds member support for electric cooperatives in Kansas while keeping them informed of the latest news, energy efficiency tips, emerging technology (electric vehicles, smart devices that help save energy) and electrical safety.

The&nbsp;Kansas Country Living&nbsp;editorial team will choose from all of the entries a&nbsp;$100 grand-prizewinning photograph that will be&nbsp;featured on the January 2025 cover&nbsp;of the magazine.&nbsp; The 2024 Rural Kansas Photography Contest will open for entries August 22 through September 30, 2024. For contest rules and categories <a href="https://www.kumc.edu/institute-for-community-engagement/our-divisions/rural-health/rural-kansas-photography-contest/categories.html">click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721841481131.jpeg" alt="The 2024 Rural Kansas Photography Contest will open for entries August 22 through September 30, 2024. Image Courtesy KUMC " />
 <figcaption>The 2024 Rural Kansas Photography Contest will open for entries August 22 through September 30, 2024. Image Courtesy KUMC </figcaption>
 </figure>KU Medical Center For more than a decade, amateur and professional photographers have helped Rural Health Education and Services showcase the beauty found in our beloved Kansas communities. These photos have led us to the far corners of the State, transported us to unique landmarks, introduced us to new friends and neighbors, and helped us rediscover the beauty in our own backyards. Most importantly, they have helped us promote the rich history and beauty of Kansas to our future health care providers.We are excited to partner with&nbsp;<a href="https://kec.coop/kcl" target="_blank">Kansas Country Living</a>&nbsp;magazine for the sixth year in a row. Kansas Country Living is designed to educate Kansas electric cooperative consumer-members on topics that impact rural electrification. With a circulation of more than 133,000, it is an integral communications channel that builds member support for electric cooperatives in Kansas while keeping them informed of the latest news, energy efficiency tips, emerging technology (electric vehicles, smart devices that help save energy) and electrical safety.The&nbsp;Kansas Country Living&nbsp;editorial team will choose from all of the entries a&nbsp;$100 grand-prizewinning photograph that will be&nbsp;featured on the January 2025 cover&nbsp;of the magazine.&nbsp; The 2024 Rural Kansas Photography Contest will open for entries August 22 through September 30, 2024. For contest rules and categories <a href="https://www.kumc.edu/institute-for-community-engagement/our-divisions/rural-health/rural-kansas-photography-contest/categories.html">click here.</a>

2024 Rural Kansas Photography Contest

The Junction City Brigade beat the Midwest A's 15 - 7 last night to advance to the Cowdin Cup. The Brigade will host the winner of the Topeka Warhawks and the Baldwin City Blues this Friday, July 26, at Rathert Field. The first pitch is at 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;

The Junction City Brigade beat the Midwest A's 15 - 7 last night to advance to the Cowdin Cup. The Brigade will host the winner of the Topeka Warhawks and the Baldwin City Blues this Friday, July 26, at Rathert Field. The first pitch is at 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;

Junction City Brigade beat A's, advance to play for Cowdin Cup

DICKINSON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 5:30a.m. Wednesday in Dickinson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 International semi driven by Travis P. Williams, 23, Wellington, was westbound on Interstate 70 one and one half miles west of Fair Road.

The semi rear-ended a 2011 Chevy Cruze driven by Koy E&nbsp;Mueller, 19, Herington, who was stopped in the right lane.

EMS transported Mueller to Wesley Medical Center. Williams was not injured. Mueller was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

DICKINSON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 5:30a.m. Wednesday in Dickinson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 International semi driven by Travis P. Williams, 23, Wellington, was westbound on Interstate 70 one and one half miles west of Fair Road.The semi rear-ended a 2011 Chevy Cruze driven by Koy E&nbsp;Mueller, 19, Herington, who was stopped in the right lane.EMS transported Mueller to Wesley Medical Center. Williams was not injured. Mueller was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after semi rear ends car on I-70

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged theft from a retailer in Manhattan.

Just before 7:30p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report of theft in the 400 block of Hummels Place, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Bomgaars reported two unknown suspecs left the establishment with two chainsaws and one weed eater. Total estimated loss associated with this report is $1,030. 

Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721830301826.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged theft from a retailer in Manhattan.Just before 7:30p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report of theft in the 400 block of Hummels Place, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Bomgaars reported two unknown suspecs left the establishment with two chainsaws and one weed eater. Total estimated loss associated with this report is $1,030. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: $1,030 in merchandise taken from Manhattan business

Kelly Williams, Aggravated failure to appear, arrested 07/23

Nyza Milligan, Failure to appear, arrested 07/24

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721827610046.jpeg" alt="Fred Morgan, Probation violation, arrested 07/24" />
 <figcaption>Fred Morgan, Probation violation, arrested 07/24</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Kelly Williams, Aggravated failure to appear, arrested 07/23Nyza Milligan, Failure to appear, arrested 07/24Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos July 24

The Geary County Childcare Coalition is looking for volunteers to help lead the coalition.&nbsp;If you want to join the team, you can apply online <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfygprc1ZTkFLDxLWNEYDzaJ7YgfJEFeWTrfYjDutMBh7kOCw/viewform">here</a>.&nbsp;

To learn more about the Geary County Childcare Coalition, click <a href="https://www.junctioncitychamber.org/gc3c.html">here</a>.&nbsp;

Currently, Geary County has an estimated need of 1,755 childcare placements. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721786780788.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Geary County Childcare Coalition is looking for volunteers to help lead the coalition.&nbsp;If you want to join the team, you can apply online <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfygprc1ZTkFLDxLWNEYDzaJ7YgfJEFeWTrfYjDutMBh7kOCw/viewform">here</a>.&nbsp;To learn more about the Geary County Childcare Coalition, click <a href="https://www.junctioncitychamber.org/gc3c.html">here</a>.&nbsp;Currently, Geary County has an estimated need of 1,755 childcare placements.

Geary County Childcare Coalition looking for volunteers

The Casa De Dios Church in Junction City is hosting a Children's Community Outreach Event this Saturday, July 27th, at 5th St. Playground Park. &nbsp;

The free family event begins at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday and will feature live music, crafts, kid's activities, prizes, and food.&nbsp;The first 50 people who arrive at the event will also receive school supplies.&nbsp;

The theme of the outreach event is N.A.SA. Needing A Savior Always.

The address for the park is 1001 W. 5th St. in Junction City.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721785946371.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Casa De Dios Church in Junction City is hosting a Children's Community Outreach Event this Saturday, July 27th, at 5th St. Playground Park. &nbsp;The free family event begins at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday and will feature live music, crafts, kid's activities, prizes, and food.&nbsp;The first 50 people who arrive at the event will also receive school supplies.&nbsp;The theme of the outreach event is N.A.SA. Needing A Savior Always.The address for the park is 1001 W. 5th St. in Junction City.&nbsp;

Casa De Dios Church in JC will host a Children's Community Outreach Event

107.9 / 1420 KJCK will air Christmas music all day Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.&nbsp;

$100 per hour will be given away during the day. You will hear a code word at the top of each&nbsp; hour and then have 15 minutes to enter that code word through a link posted at JC Post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721774367507.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>107.9 / 1420 KJCK will air Christmas music all day Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.&nbsp;$100 per hour will be given away during the day. You will hear a code word at the top of each&nbsp; hour and then have 15 minutes to enter that code word through a link posted at JC Post.

Christmas in July will come to 107.9 FM / 1420 KJCK this Thursday

There is an opportunity for the public to meet the candidates of the republican party on Wednesday, July 24. The event will be at the Blu Restaurant and Bar at 602 N. Washington St in Junction City. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. Candidates from the republican party that will be there are the candidates that are up for election in the primary election on August 6.

For Geary County Commission District 3, Keith Ascher and Bobby Miller.

For Kansas House of Representatives District 65, Shawn Chauncey and Jeff Underhill.

For Kansas Senate District 17, Mike Argabright and David Schneider.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721770711140.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony Gorges&nbsp;JC PostThere is an opportunity for the public to meet the candidates of the republican party on Wednesday, July 24. The event will be at the Blu Restaurant and Bar at 602 N. Washington St in Junction City. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. Candidates from the republican party that will be there are the candidates that are up for election in the primary election on August 6.For Geary County Commission District 3, Keith Ascher and Bobby Miller.For Kansas House of Representatives District 65, Shawn Chauncey and Jeff Underhill.For Kansas Senate District 17, Mike Argabright and David Schneider.

Republican Rally will be at Blu Restaurant and Bar on Wednesday night

Junction City Public Works has announced that on Wednesday, July 24th starting at 11:00 PM through Thursday, July 25th at 6:00 AM, the following areas will experience little to no water due to waterline repair and replacement: Eisenhower Dr from 5th to 8th Street, 6th Street from Rucker to Garfield Street, Country Club Lane west of Eisenhower Dr, and Country Club Terrace&nbsp; west of Eisenhower Dr.

Call Junction City Public Works at 785-238-7142 if you have any questions.

Junction City Public Works has announced that on Wednesday, July 24th starting at 11:00 PM through Thursday, July 25th at 6:00 AM, the following areas will experience little to no water due to waterline repair and replacement: Eisenhower Dr from 5th to 8th Street, 6th Street from Rucker to Garfield Street, Country Club Lane west of Eisenhower Dr, and Country Club Terrace&nbsp; west of Eisenhower Dr.Call Junction City Public Works at 785-238-7142 if you have any questions.

Water line work is scheduled

A family of four making less than $6,966 a month could earn child care subsidies. Children must be under 13. Call&nbsp;<a href="tel:18883694777" target="_blank">1-888-369-4777</a>&nbsp;to learn more. Subsidies are run by DCF and applications can be picked up at any agency office.

By&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/author/blaise-mesa/">BLAISE MESA&nbsp;</a> <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/">The Beacon</a>

The families of nearly 100,000 children in Kansas were potentially eligible for child care subsidies in 2020. Yet barely more than one in eight got the federal benefit designed to make child care more affordable.&nbsp;

That happened even as Kansas has been expanding its child care subsidy and has more room for families to apply.&nbsp;

The federal child care subsidy can be the difference between paying for child care and not being able to afford it, said Emily Barnes, education policy adviser with Kansas Action for Children. Families who get the benefits save hundreds of dollars a month and thousands per year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.clasp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/2024_Ineq.-Access-Factsheet_KS.pdf">A report</a>&nbsp;from the Center of Law and Social Policy found that families nationwide struggled to access child care support they were entitled to — only 14% of eligible families nationwide receive the benefit. In Kansas, about 12% likely to qualify got that help paying for child care.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/pages/child_care/childcaresubsidy.aspx">child care subsidy</a>&nbsp;offsets the sometimes-burdensome child care costs to a more reasonable number. Barnes said families often devote 20% of their income to child care.&nbsp;

“It’s a resource that’s available to us,” Barnes said. “We will see improvements when we utilize the resource to its best extent.”&nbsp;

But some providers don’t accept the subsidies because payments come in too slowly. Some families struggle to sort out the application process that triggers those payments, Barnes said.&nbsp;

A family of four making less than $6,966 a month could earn child care subsidies. Children must be under 13. Call&nbsp;<a href="tel:18883694777" target="_blank">1-888-369-4777</a>&nbsp;to learn more. Subsidies are run by DCF and applications can be picked up at any agency office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721664742589.png" alt="A study of 2020 data found that only 12% of eligible families got subsidies they qualify for. Photo Courtesy of Gov. Laura Kelly's office" />
 <figcaption>A study of 2020 data found that only 12% of eligible families got subsidies they qualify for. Photo Courtesy of Gov. Laura Kelly's office</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/author/blaise-mesa/">BLAISE MESA&nbsp;</a> <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/">The Beacon</a>The families of nearly 100,000 children in Kansas were potentially eligible for child care subsidies in 2020. Yet barely more than one in eight got the federal benefit designed to make child care more affordable.&nbsp;That happened even as Kansas has been expanding its child care subsidy and has more room for families to apply.&nbsp;The federal child care subsidy can be the difference between paying for child care and not being able to afford it, said Emily Barnes, education policy adviser with Kansas Action for Children. Families who get the benefits save hundreds of dollars a month and thousands per year.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.clasp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/2024_Ineq.-Access-Factsheet_KS.pdf">A report</a>&nbsp;from the Center of Law and Social Policy found that families nationwide struggled to access child care support they were entitled to — only 14% of eligible families nationwide receive the benefit. In Kansas, about 12% likely to qualify got that help paying for child care.The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/pages/child_care/childcaresubsidy.aspx">child care subsidy</a>&nbsp;offsets the sometimes-burdensome child care costs to a more reasonable number. Barnes said families often devote 20% of their income to child care.&nbsp;“It’s a resource that’s available to us,” Barnes said. “We will see improvements when we utilize the resource to its best extent.”&nbsp;But some providers don’t accept the subsidies because payments come in too slowly. Some families struggle to sort out the application process that triggers those payments, Barnes said.&nbsp;And some families may simply not know they’re eligible for help.&nbsp;Stephanie Schmit, director of child care and early education with the Center for Law and Social Policy, worked on the study.&nbsp;She is frustrated that families nationwide are paying more out of pocket for care when they don’t have to, especially with child care costs so high.&nbsp;“On the federal level, we need more money and better policy. And then at the state level, we need more money and better policy,” Schmit said. “It’s pretty straightforward.”&nbsp;For starters, she said, the program could be&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2024/01/22/kansas-business-child-care-tax-credit-goes-unused-2/">more widely publicized</a>&nbsp;and the application could be simpler. But those are small fixes, Schmit said, and child care access in general needs larger fixes.&nbsp;People of color disproportionately need child care subsidies. In Kansas, Black children between birth and 13 years old are only 5% of the population but are 11% of the potentially eligible population. Hispanic/Latino children make up 19% of the population but 28% of eligible families.&nbsp;Addressing those disparities is not simple.&nbsp;Schmit wants to see more serious investment in child care. More money has been put into these programs, she said, but those funds haven’t kept up with inflation, which means fewer children are being helped.&nbsp;In fiscal year 2020, Kansas spent $51 million to help just over 10,000 kids on average. In fiscal year 2024, the state spent $84.7 million to help an average of around 13,500 kids.&nbsp;“We do not have a max caseload at this time and we have the capacity to serve more families,” a Kansas Department for Children and Families spokesperson said. “So we encourage families to apply to see if they’re eligible.”&nbsp;In Kansas, Barnes has been lobbying lawmakers to expand the child care subsidy. The Child Care and Development Fund is federal money, but it is handed down to the states to divvy up. The subsidy does work but needs some improvements, she said.&nbsp;One statewide survey said that families who get the federal money don’t always get enough to make child care affordable. And other families who make too much to qualify don’t make nearly enough to afford the thousands of dollars that monthly care can cost.&nbsp;Barnes is hoping the next legislative session brings more substantial change, but she expects major reform is years down the road.&nbsp;“We are at a place where robust investment in child care is the option that we can and should consider,” she said. “I would love to see that commitment to bold steps that support our families who are working very hard.”

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