One of the traditions in Junction City on the Fourth of July is a parade.

The Freedom Parade was held Friday morning with entries ranging from floats and bands to law enforcement and the Commanding General's Mounted Color Guard.

The parade was part of a full day of activities celebrating the Fourth of July.

One of the traditions in Junction City on the Fourth of July is a parade.The Freedom Parade was held Friday morning with entries ranging from floats and bands to law enforcement and the Commanding General's Mounted Color Guard.<figure>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751668585692.jpeg" alt=" " />
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 </figure>The parade was part of a full day of activities celebrating the Fourth of July.

Junction City celebrates with a parade

Freedom Fest activities on July 4th in July begin with the Freedom Run at 7:30 a.m. That will be followed by the Freedom Parade at 10 a.m. Following the parade there will be a Veterans Ceremony at noon in Heritage Park.

WEEE Entertainment opens their carnival at noon.

The FMX High Air Shows are scheduled at 1 and 5:30 p.m. Foam Parties are scheduled at 1:30, 2:30 and 4:30 p.m. The John Cassidy Show is slated for 2, 3 and 5 p.m.

Beatle Mania 64 will perform at 6:30 while Animals, the Maroon Tribute is scheduled at 8:30 p.m.

There will be a Fireworks Display at 10 p.m.

Freedom Fest activities on July 4th in July begin with the Freedom Run at 7:30 a.m. That will be followed by the Freedom Parade at 10 a.m. Following the parade there will be a Veterans Ceremony at noon in Heritage Park.WEEE Entertainment opens their carnival at noon.The FMX High Air Shows are scheduled at 1 and 5:30 p.m. Foam Parties are scheduled at 1:30, 2:30 and 4:30 p.m. The John Cassidy Show is slated for 2, 3 and 5 p.m.Beatle Mania 64 will perform at 6:30 while Animals, the Maroon Tribute is scheduled at 8:30 p.m.There will be a Fireworks Display at 10 p.m.

Busy Fourth of July for Freedom Fest

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Thursday in Wabaunsee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported Amy L. Cook, 45, Ogden, exited a 2010 Ford Super Duty truck driven by Nicholas E. Cook, 45, Ogden at&nbsp;32,981 Windy Hill Road in the Maple Hill Truck Stop Parking Lot.

Amy Cook walked through the pumps. The Ford truck pulled in behind her and the trucks trailer pinched her into the front right of a stationary 2024 Ford Edge driven by Patricia J. Bowen, 62, Bloomington, Indiana.

EMS transported Amy Cook to Stormont Vail for treatment of minor injuries. There were no other injuries. The impact caused minor damage to the Ford Edge, according to the KHP.&nbsp;

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Thursday in Wabaunsee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported Amy L. Cook, 45, Ogden, exited a 2010 Ford Super Duty truck driven by Nicholas E. Cook, 45, Ogden at&nbsp;32,981 Windy Hill Road in the Maple Hill Truck Stop Parking Lot.Amy Cook walked through the pumps. The Ford truck pulled in behind her and the trucks trailer pinched her into the front right of a stationary 2024 Ford Edge driven by Patricia J. Bowen, 62, Bloomington, Indiana.EMS transported Amy Cook to Stormont Vail for treatment of minor injuries. There were no other injuries. The impact caused minor damage to the Ford Edge, according to the KHP.&nbsp;

Riley County woman injured in truck stop parking lot accident

There will be no trash/garbage pick-up by the City of Junction City on Friday, July 4th..

However, trash/garbage removal will be picked up the next workday as follows:

Friday’s pickup day will be Saturday, July 5th

To ensure pick-up your trash should be set out by 6 AM, Saturday morning. 

There will be no trash/garbage pick-up by the City of Junction City on Friday, July 4th..However, trash/garbage removal will be picked up the next workday as follows:Friday’s pickup day will be Saturday, July 5thTo ensure pick-up your trash should be set out by 6 AM, Saturday morning.

Junction City Public Works sanitation schedule

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, about the Big Beautiful Bill.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661448577852.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Sen. Jerry Moran" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=egx63-18f541d-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, about the Big Beautiful Bill.

🎤 Forward Ever: Senator Moran on the Big Beautiful Bill

Freedom Fest began Wednesday evening in downtown Juncion City.

Freedom Fest will continue through Sunday.

Freedom Fest began Wednesday evening in downtown Juncion City.<figure>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751508454385.jpeg" alt=" " />
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 </figure>Freedom Fest will continue through Sunday.The schedule for Thursday July 3:<figure>
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Freedom Fest opens 

This is day 8 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.&nbsp; &nbsp;

While yields and protein levels remain generally average, Kansas wheat farmers are facing significant challenges this year, including the widespread impact of wheat streak mosaic virus and related diseases, drought during the growing season and scattered rainfall during harvest.&nbsp;

Mike McClellan, who farms in Rooks County with his nephew Cade Beesley, started harvest about five days ago. Their crew includes hired hand Dave and Cade’s son, Coy. With about two-thirds left to cut, they’re making steady progress.

Yields have been above average compared to the past three years and are landing around average overall. Protein levels are ranging from 11.5 to 15.5 percent, and test weights on their better fields, those not hit by wheat streak mosaic virus, have been coming in at 58 to 60 pounds per bushel.

McClellan said their biggest challenges this year have been drought and wheat streak mosaic virus. The virus hit hard in the spring, with large pockets showing up across fields, more widespread than usual. The impact has been noticeable, with lower yields, reduced plant height, and lighter test weights in affected areas. Scattered rain showers during harvest have added to the test weight struggles.

Jackson Hoelker with Skyland Grain in Kingman County says harvest is nearly a month in, with cutting beginning the first week of June. Yields are coming in between 50 and 55 bushels per acre. Protein levels range from 10.5 to 11.5 percent, and test weights, which began around 60 to 63 pounds, have dropped slightly and are now closer to 58.

Hoelker estimates harvest is 85 to 90 percent complete. For the most part, everything that can be cut has been, but growers will need fields to finish drying out before they can finish the rest. While they haven’t seen much sprouting in the area, the biggest challenge this year has simply been how long the harvest is taking to complete.

Jason Ochs, who farms in Hamilton County, reported that harvest began on June 20, but some of the wheat has had several rain showers since it has been ripe. Other areas have received very little rain the past three years. Wheat in the area is short and hard to get it all in the header. The moisture came a little too late, but they did have perfect grainfill weather, cool and rainy. Yields are ranging based on conditions, but test weights have been decent, ranging from 59 to 61 pounds per bushel. He mentioned some wheat streak mosaic virus in the area. Ochs has seen some wind shatter from 40 mile per hour winds. While the wheat is short, the residue out there “makes a huge difference for the next crop,” he said. “It retains moisture and protects from sun and wind.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751504909918.png" alt="2025 Harvest Report Day 8; photo courtesy of Kansas Wheat" />
 <figcaption>2025 Harvest Report Day 8; photo courtesy of Kansas Wheat</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS WHEAT COMMISSION This is day 8 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.&nbsp; &nbsp;While yields and protein levels remain generally average, Kansas wheat farmers are facing significant challenges this year, including the widespread impact of wheat streak mosaic virus and related diseases, drought during the growing season and scattered rainfall during harvest.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600284821318.jpeg" alt="<a href="https://www.dieselfuelinjectionrepair.com/diesel-fuel-injector-rebuilds?useYB=2,4&amp;cam=ppc-m-m178243-c851458-g-">Click here to visit Diesel Control Technicians website</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.dieselfuelinjectionrepair.com/diesel-fuel-injector-rebuilds?useYB=2,4&amp;cam=ppc-m-m178243-c851458-g-">Click here to visit Diesel Control Technicians website</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Mike McClellan, who farms in Rooks County with his nephew Cade Beesley, started harvest about five days ago. Their crew includes hired hand Dave and Cade’s son, Coy. With about two-thirds left to cut, they’re making steady progress.Yields have been above average compared to the past three years and are landing around average overall. Protein levels are ranging from 11.5 to 15.5 percent, and test weights on their better fields, those not hit by wheat streak mosaic virus, have been coming in at 58 to 60 pounds per bushel.McClellan said their biggest challenges this year have been drought and wheat streak mosaic virus. The virus hit hard in the spring, with large pockets showing up across fields, more widespread than usual. The impact has been noticeable, with lower yields, reduced plant height, and lighter test weights in affected areas. Scattered rain showers during harvest have added to the test weight struggles.Jackson Hoelker with Skyland Grain in Kingman County says harvest is nearly a month in, with cutting beginning the first week of June. Yields are coming in between 50 and 55 bushels per acre. Protein levels range from 10.5 to 11.5 percent, and test weights, which began around 60 to 63 pounds, have dropped slightly and are now closer to 58.Hoelker estimates harvest is 85 to 90 percent complete. For the most part, everything that can be cut has been, but growers will need fields to finish drying out before they can finish the rest. While they haven’t seen much sprouting in the area, the biggest challenge this year has simply been how long the harvest is taking to complete.Jason Ochs, who farms in Hamilton County, reported that harvest began on June 20, but some of the wheat has had several rain showers since it has been ripe. Other areas have received very little rain the past three years. Wheat in the area is short and hard to get it all in the header. The moisture came a little too late, but they did have perfect grainfill weather, cool and rainy. Yields are ranging based on conditions, but test weights have been decent, ranging from 59 to 61 pounds per bushel. He mentioned some wheat streak mosaic virus in the area. Ochs has seen some wind shatter from 40 mile per hour winds. While the wheat is short, the residue out there “makes a huge difference for the next crop,” he said. “It retains moisture and protects from sun and wind.”<div><iframe style="height:40rem;width:100%;" class="w-full" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://www.widgets.investing.com/live-commodities?theme=darkTheme&amp;pairs=8849,8869,8917,961618,954867,8913,8914,8862,959199,8918,8916"></iframe></div><div> </div><div> </div>

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Kansas Wheat: Harvest day eight 

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Social media can be a great way to connect with new friends, but it’s a different story when someone approaches you to be friends and then asks for money. That’s no friend — that’s a scammer.

Scammers create fake profiles and pretend to be someone they’re not — maybe a businessperson, servicemember, or member of an international organization, with profile details that seems to support their story. They try to become your friend, and as you start trusting them, they have explanations for why they can’t meet in person. And then, eventually, they ask you for money — maybe to finally travel to see you or to help them out of a crisis.

When they ask for money, these scammers will often tell you how to send it. People report that scammers told them to&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/you-wire-money">wire money</a>&nbsp;through a company like Western Union or MoneyGram, send the numbers on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/paying-scammers-gift-cards">gift cards</a>, use a&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/mobile-payment-apps-how-avoid-scam-when-you-use-one">payment app</a>, or send&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-know-about-cryptocurrency-and-scams">cryptocurrency</a>.&nbsp;

If you’re ever in a situation like this:

If you think someone you met on social media is a scammer, cut ties. Tell the social media platform, and then tell the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750179147852.png" alt="Image by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Federal Trade CommissionWASHINGTON, D.C. — Social media can be a great way to connect with new friends, but it’s a different story when someone approaches you to be friends and then asks for money. That’s no friend — that’s a scammer.Scammers create fake profiles and pretend to be someone they’re not — maybe a businessperson, servicemember, or member of an international organization, with profile details that seems to support their story. They try to become your friend, and as you start trusting them, they have explanations for why they can’t meet in person. And then, eventually, they ask you for money — maybe to finally travel to see you or to help them out of a crisis.When they ask for money, these scammers will often tell you how to send it. People report that scammers told them to&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/you-wire-money">wire money</a>&nbsp;through a company like Western Union or MoneyGram, send the numbers on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/paying-scammers-gift-cards">gift cards</a>, use a&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/mobile-payment-apps-how-avoid-scam-when-you-use-one">payment app</a>, or send&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-know-about-cryptocurrency-and-scams">cryptocurrency</a>.&nbsp;If you’re ever in a situation like this:<ul>
 <li>Talk to your friends or family about your new online relationship. See what they say about the person.</li><li>Search online for information about this person and their story, plus the word “scammer.”&nbsp;Have other people posted similar stories?</li><li>Do a reverse image search of the person’s profile picture.&nbsp;Is it associated with another name or with details that don’t match up?</li><li>Don’t send money to someone you’ve never met in person.&nbsp;If that person asks for money, no matter how friendly the online relationship seems, it’s probably a scam.</li>
 </ul>If you think someone you met on social media is a scammer, cut ties. Tell the social media platform, and then tell the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.&nbsp;

FTC: Did a new online friend ask for money? Odds are it’s a scam

Junction City Fire Chief Jason Lankas has confirmed that the damage estimate from the apartment building fire Wednesday at 1541 West Ash Street totaled $275,000.

Junction City firefighters responded to a major apartment building fire at 1541 West Ash Wednesday&nbsp; afternoon. Fire Chief Jason Lankas confirmed there were no injuries but five families were displaced. The Red Cross is assisting those families.

The blaze is under investigation. Authorities were notified when they received a call about an active fire and multiple units then responded to the scene.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751532795276.jpeg" alt="( JCFD )" />
 <figcaption>( JCFD )</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJunction City Fire Chief Jason Lankas has confirmed that the damage estimate from the apartment building fire Wednesday at 1541 West Ash Street totaled $275,000.----Junction City firefighters responded to a major apartment building fire at 1541 West Ash Wednesday&nbsp; afternoon. Fire Chief Jason Lankas confirmed there were no injuries but five families were displaced. The Red Cross is assisting those families.The blaze is under investigation. Authorities were notified when they received a call about an active fire and multiple units then responded to the scene.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751533129788.jpeg" alt="( JCFD )" />
 <figcaption>( JCFD )</figcaption>
 </figure>

Damage estimate is released from apartment building fire in Junction City

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – Geary USD 475 is partnering with ParentSquare for the 2025-26 school year to deliver all district and school level communication.ParentSquare’s comprehensive all-in-one platform will foster greater communication and family involvement.

It is designed to keep parents informed and make communicating easy. It is an easy-to-use communication tool that combines multiple communication streams into one easy-to-use app for families and staff. It provides a safe method for principals, teachers, staff and parents/guardians to communicate and share information through email, text and phone messages.

With ParentSquare, parents and guardians can enjoy photos posted by teachers, fill out forms and permission slips, sign up for parent-teacher conferences, check attendance and much more. School staff and families can also engage in both one-to-one and group messaging with real-time language translation.We encourage everyone throughout the district to activate their ParentSquare account to take full advantage of this tool. Even without an account, all families will receive messages to their email address and phone number. But an activated account makes communication even easier and gives parents the ability to customize how they receive messages. USD 475 also also encourages users to download the free ParentSquare app in the Apple Store and Google Play.Visit parentsquare.com/signin (or install the ParentSquare app on your mobile device) and follow the prompts to sign up.&nbsp;

You must register with the email address and phone number that is on record with your school. Please note that this is how your account is linked with your child’s information&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Matt HooverUSD 475 Communications CoordinatorJUNCTION CITY, Kan. – Geary USD 475 is partnering with ParentSquare for the 2025-26 school year to deliver all district and school level communication.ParentSquare’s comprehensive all-in-one platform will foster greater communication and family involvement.It is designed to keep parents informed and make communicating easy. It is an easy-to-use communication tool that combines multiple communication streams into one easy-to-use app for families and staff. It provides a safe method for principals, teachers, staff and parents/guardians to communicate and share information through email, text and phone messages.With ParentSquare, parents and guardians can enjoy photos posted by teachers, fill out forms and permission slips, sign up for parent-teacher conferences, check attendance and much more. School staff and families can also engage in both one-to-one and group messaging with real-time language translation.We encourage everyone throughout the district to activate their ParentSquare account to take full advantage of this tool. Even without an account, all families will receive messages to their email address and phone number. But an activated account makes communication even easier and gives parents the ability to customize how they receive messages. USD 475 also also encourages users to download the free ParentSquare app in the Apple Store and Google Play.Visit parentsquare.com/signin (or install the ParentSquare app on your mobile device) and follow the prompts to sign up.&nbsp;You must register with the email address and phone number that is on record with your school. Please note that this is how your account is linked with your child’s information&nbsp;&nbsp;

 USD 475 will Partner with ParentSquare

In observance of the 4th of July holiday, Geary County Public Works Department, Geary County HHW/Recycling Center, Geary County Transfer Station, and Geary County Landfill will be closed on Friday, July 4th.

They will resume normal business hours on Monday, July 7th.

In observance of the 4th of July holiday, Geary County Public Works Department, Geary County HHW/Recycling Center, Geary County Transfer Station, and Geary County Landfill will be closed on Friday, July 4th.They will resume normal business hours on Monday, July 7th.

Geary County Public Works Holiday Schedule Notice:

On Tuesday night, Mayor Pat Landes read a proclamation at the Junction City Commission meeting declaring July 3rd, DJ Giddens Day. He was honored for his efforts as a Junction City Blue Jay and Kansas State Wildcat football player. Giddens was also a fifth round selection of the Indianapolis Colts in the NFL Daft.

He will be recognized publicly at Freedom Fest on Thursday, July 3rd about 8 pm prior to the final performance for the evening.&nbsp;

On Tuesday night, Mayor Pat Landes read a proclamation at the Junction City Commission meeting declaring July 3rd, DJ Giddens Day. He was honored for his efforts as a Junction City Blue Jay and Kansas State Wildcat football player. Giddens was also a fifth round selection of the Indianapolis Colts in the NFL Daft.He will be recognized publicly at Freedom Fest on Thursday, July 3rd about 8 pm prior to the final performance for the evening.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751483508105.jpeg" alt="DJ Giddens attending the Junction City Commission meeting" />
 <figcaption>DJ Giddens attending the Junction City Commission meeting</figcaption>
 </figure>

DJ Giddens is being honored

--Junction City Commissioners have received a request from Fresh Start Emergency Shelter for $45,000 in 2026.

The facility currently operates as a day shelter.

The commisssion will take up the issue during budget deliberations. They have indicated support for the operation.

Commissioners have awarded a bid totaling $483,830 to J&amp;K Contracting for utility improvements on McFarland Road. The work needs to be done before a roundabout project can be done.

Commissioners voted to express their support for the employment of five new city employees. They include an assistant city attorney, a grant writer, city planner, project manager and a public information officer. A public information officer is expected to be hired in the near future. The necessary funding is in the budget.

City manager Kim Zimmerman said that the five positions are key to the City moving forward.

--Junction City Commissioners have received a request from Fresh Start Emergency Shelter for $45,000 in 2026.The facility currently operates as a day shelter.The commisssion will take up the issue during budget deliberations. They have indicated support for the operation.--Commissioners have awarded a bid totaling $483,830 to J&amp;K Contracting for utility improvements on McFarland Road. The work needs to be done before a roundabout project can be done.--Commissioners voted to express their support for the employment of five new city employees. They include an assistant city attorney, a grant writer, city planner, project manager and a public information officer. A public information officer is expected to be hired in the near future. The necessary funding is in the budget.City manager Kim Zimmerman said that the five positions are key to the City moving forward.

Junction City Commission hears requests and proposals 

The Summer Jam 3 on 3 Baskatball Tournament fundraiser sponsored by the Felix Snipes Foundation will be held July 12 - 13 at the 12th Street Community Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751480006471.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Summer Jam 3 on 3 Baskatball Tournament fundraiser sponsored by the Felix Snipes Foundation will be held July 12 - 13 at the 12th Street Community Center.

Summer Jam Basketball Tournament

The Greater Geary Community Foundation has awarded I.C.A.R.E. with a $1,000 grant. The money will be used for the "I.C.A.R.E. That U Read Project" for "most improved readers" Pre-K- 5th grade in USD 475 and schools in Geary County. The project goal is to promote the love of reading and increase intergenerational reading among family members &amp; friends.

The Greater Geary Community Foundation has awarded I.C.A.R.E. with a $1,000 grant. The money will be used for the "I.C.A.R.E. That U Read Project" for "most improved readers" Pre-K- 5th grade in USD 475 and schools in Geary County. The project goal is to promote the love of reading and increase intergenerational reading among family members &amp; friends.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751467912561.jpeg" alt="Pictured:&nbsp; Calvin Pottberg &amp; Ricardo Mendoza of Greater Geary Community Foundation presents $1,000 check to Vickie Bobbitt, (Executive Director), Wendy Luttman-King, (Treasurer) Evelyn Kimbrough,(Secretary),&nbsp; Melissa Tyson &amp; Margaret Thurman board members" />
 <figcaption>Pictured:&nbsp; Calvin Pottberg &amp; Ricardo Mendoza of Greater Geary Community Foundation presents $1,000 check to Vickie Bobbitt, (Executive Director), Wendy Luttman-King, (Treasurer) Evelyn Kimbrough,(Secretary),&nbsp; Melissa Tyson &amp; Margaret Thurman board members</figcaption>
 </figure>

I.C.A.R.E. receives a grant

This is day 7 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Harvest progress continues across Kansas, with some areas moving slowly due to wet conditions while others have managed to dodge the rain and are preparing to wrap up harvest. Farmers and custom harvesters are adapting to challenges to keep things moving.

Shane Eck with the Pawnee County Coop Association in Larned reports that harvest is 75% to 85% complete in their region. Harvest conditions have been mostly favorable as they have missed most of the heavy rain events but had some scattered rains.

Yields are ranging from 20 to 60 bushels per acre, which is, for the most part, an improvement over the drought-stricken crops of the past two years. They have already exceeded their take of wheat from last year and are above their five-year average. Test weights were averaging 58 pounds with some lower numbers in rainfall areas. Test weights and yields have been impacted by wheat streak mosaic virus and other associated viral diseases which have become more common in the region over the past three years. Proteins are averaging around 12%.

Paul Penner, a farmer in Marion County, has been harvesting on and off due to repeated rain delays. Wet conditions have made progress slow, and Penner estimates he has about three to four days left to go. He’s working to balance wrapping up harvest while also getting soybeans in the ground without damaging fields.

Test weights started around 60 pounds but have since dipped, now ranging closer to 56 to 59 pounds following the recent rains. The wet fields have been one of the biggest challenges this season. Penner planted KS Providence, AG Radical and AP Prolific, all of which are performing well so far.

Custom harvester Jacob Hermesch is cutting wheat near Kinsley, Kansas, where recent rains have made fields difficult to access without specialized equipment. Hermesch said tracks have made the difference this season, allowing his crew to keep working while others are sidelined by the mud.

“I got my combine stuck four times in one day,” Hermesch said. “But the tracked machine just walks right through it, no problem.”

Despite good wheat in the area, the wet conditions are slowing progress and putting extra stress on equipment. Hermesch estimates yields are ranging from 30 to 70 bushels per acre, depending on how well the crop was managed. He noted that demand for help is high in the Kinsley area, especially from farmers short on equipment. Even with the challenges he has faced, Hermesch is open to picking up more acres, especially closer to home along Highway 36.

The 2025 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on social media, use #wheatharvest25. Tag at @kansaswheat to share your harvest story and photos.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751423226702.png" alt="Day 7 Harvest Report 2025;&nbsp;photo courtesy of Kansas Wheat" />
 <figcaption>Day 7 Harvest Report 2025;&nbsp;photo courtesy of Kansas Wheat</figcaption>
 </figure>This is day 7 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Harvest progress continues across Kansas, with some areas moving slowly due to wet conditions while others have managed to dodge the rain and are preparing to wrap up harvest. Farmers and custom harvesters are adapting to challenges to keep things moving.Shane Eck with the Pawnee County Coop Association in Larned reports that harvest is 75% to 85% complete in their region. Harvest conditions have been mostly favorable as they have missed most of the heavy rain events but had some scattered rains.Yields are ranging from 20 to 60 bushels per acre, which is, for the most part, an improvement over the drought-stricken crops of the past two years. They have already exceeded their take of wheat from last year and are above their five-year average. Test weights were averaging 58 pounds with some lower numbers in rainfall areas. Test weights and yields have been impacted by wheat streak mosaic virus and other associated viral diseases which have become more common in the region over the past three years. Proteins are averaging around 12%.Paul Penner, a farmer in Marion County, has been harvesting on and off due to repeated rain delays. Wet conditions have made progress slow, and Penner estimates he has about three to four days left to go. He’s working to balance wrapping up harvest while also getting soybeans in the ground without damaging fields.Test weights started around 60 pounds but have since dipped, now ranging closer to 56 to 59 pounds following the recent rains. The wet fields have been one of the biggest challenges this season. Penner planted KS Providence, AG Radical and AP Prolific, all of which are performing well so far.Custom harvester Jacob Hermesch is cutting wheat near Kinsley, Kansas, where recent rains have made fields difficult to access without specialized equipment. Hermesch said tracks have made the difference this season, allowing his crew to keep working while others are sidelined by the mud.“I got my combine stuck four times in one day,” Hermesch said. “But the tracked machine just walks right through it, no problem.”Despite good wheat in the area, the wet conditions are slowing progress and putting extra stress on equipment. Hermesch estimates yields are ranging from 30 to 70 bushels per acre, depending on how well the crop was managed. He noted that demand for help is high in the Kinsley area, especially from farmers short on equipment. Even with the challenges he has faced, Hermesch is open to picking up more acres, especially closer to home along Highway 36.The 2025 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on social media, use #wheatharvest25. Tag at @kansaswheat to share your harvest story and photos.

Day 7: Kansas Wheat Harvest report

Fireworks regulations received review during the Junction City Commission meeting Tuesday night.&nbsp;

You can shoot fireworks off from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. July 1-4 in Junction City and Geary County. Do not set&nbsp; off fireworks in streets.&nbsp;

Be aware that fireworks can also frighten pets.

Freedom Fest begins Wednesday night at 6 p.m. in Heritage Park. Performing groups include Sunset Sinners and 80s Rock Tribute Paramount.

WEEE Entertainment carnival begins at 6 p.m.

Fireworks regulations received review during the Junction City Commission meeting Tuesday night.&nbsp;You can shoot fireworks off from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. July 1-4 in Junction City and Geary County. Do not set&nbsp; off fireworks in streets.&nbsp;Be aware that fireworks can also frighten pets.Freedom Fest begins Wednesday night at 6 p.m. in Heritage Park. Performing groups include Sunset Sinners and 80s Rock Tribute Paramount.WEEE Entertainment carnival begins at 6 p.m.Freedom Fest continues through Sunday.

Fireworks regulations and Freedom Fest

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents boosted salaries of state university presidents and the chancellor an average of 6.4%, despite the Legislature’s decision to provide no more than 2.5% raises to campus employees lagging the farthest behind market rates.

The Legislature earmarked $36.2 million to address state employee pay disparities in the new fiscal year starting July 1. These targeted increases would bring state workers up to 10% below market rate or enact raises of 2.5%, whichever was greater.

The Board of Regents universities received state funding equivalent to a 2.5% merit pool. Lawmakers left it to university administrators to fill other compensation gaps, but the reality was some campus employees won’t get a raise.

The Board of Regents awarded University of Kansas Chancellor Doug Girod a 12% surge of $105,000 to place his total compensation from state government and private endowment sources at $1 million per year.

After meeting in executive session, the Board of Regents also voted Friday without dissent to authorize a 7% increase for Fort Hays State University President Tisa Mason to take her annual package to $355,000. Kansas State University President Richard Linton, who received a 10.2% raise last year, was provided a 5% increase this year to elevate his compensation to $750,000.

The low end of the scale were 4% adjustments for Wichita State University President Rick Muma and Emporia State University President Ken Hush. Muma’s annual compensation climbed to $635,000, while Hush’s was bumped to $370,000. The Board of Regents recently hired a new president for Pittsburg State University, so no raise was adopted for PSU.

“Some of the most important actions we take concern our CEOs,” said Carl Ice, chairman of the Board of Regents. “Leaders matter. Leaders set a vision — visions that are compelling.”

Becky Pottebaum, director of finance and administration with the Board of Regents, said the annual review of compensation for university leaders was designed to make certain salaries were based on performance and competitive with peer institutions.

The latest salary adjustments reflected the Board of Regents’ adoption of new principles regarding CEO compensation.

“Strong leadership is essential to the continued success of our institutions and the broader mission of advancing higher education in Kansas,” she said.

For more than six months, state university leaders expressed alarm about converging financial challenges that included general operational inflation, softness in student enrollment, loss of federal research funding and new financial obligations to college athletes.

In response, the Board of Regents approved tuition increases averaging 3.9% for in-state undergraduate university students. University administrators have moved to impose cost-cutting measures to deal with anticipated budget deficits.

Girod said the “challenges largely are due to external factors such as disruptions to federal funding, the lack of new state funding, rising costs associated with facilities construction and operations, and the projected nationwide decline in college enrollment.”

He said without decisive action KU’s Lawrence campus could wind up with a $4 million shortfall by the end of the fiscal year.

“The reality is higher education is at a crossroads, and universities must develop new financial models for the new world we are in,” Girod said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751394543031.png" alt=" Carl Ice, right, chairman of the Kansas Board of Regents, defended raises of 4% to 12% for top leadership of the state's public universities despite the Kansas Legislature appropriating funding for 2.5% market rate adjustments for certain university employees that could leave faculty and staff without any bump in compensation in the fiscal year starting July 1. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Carl Ice, right, chairman of the Kansas Board of Regents, defended raises of 4% to 12% for top leadership of the state's public universities despite the Kansas Legislature appropriating funding for 2.5% market rate adjustments for certain university employees that could leave faculty and staff without any bump in compensation in the fiscal year starting July 1. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents boosted salaries of state university presidents and the chancellor an average of 6.4%, despite the Legislature’s decision to provide no more than 2.5% raises to campus employees lagging the farthest behind market rates.The Legislature earmarked $36.2 million to address state employee pay disparities in the new fiscal year starting July 1. These targeted increases would bring state workers up to 10% below market rate or enact raises of 2.5%, whichever was greater.The Board of Regents universities received state funding equivalent to a 2.5% merit pool. Lawmakers left it to university administrators to fill other compensation gaps, but the reality was some campus employees won’t get a raise.The Board of Regents awarded University of Kansas Chancellor Doug Girod a 12% surge of $105,000 to place his total compensation from state government and private endowment sources at $1 million per year.After meeting in executive session, the Board of Regents also voted Friday without dissent to authorize a 7% increase for Fort Hays State University President Tisa Mason to take her annual package to $355,000. Kansas State University President Richard Linton, who received a 10.2% raise last year, was provided a 5% increase this year to elevate his compensation to $750,000.The low end of the scale were 4% adjustments for Wichita State University President Rick Muma and Emporia State University President Ken Hush. Muma’s annual compensation climbed to $635,000, while Hush’s was bumped to $370,000. The Board of Regents recently hired a new president for Pittsburg State University, so no raise was adopted for PSU.“Some of the most important actions we take concern our CEOs,” said Carl Ice, chairman of the Board of Regents. “Leaders matter. Leaders set a vision — visions that are compelling.”Becky Pottebaum, director of finance and administration with the Board of Regents, said the annual review of compensation for university leaders was designed to make certain salaries were based on performance and competitive with peer institutions.The latest salary adjustments reflected the Board of Regents’ adoption of new principles regarding CEO compensation.“Strong leadership is essential to the continued success of our institutions and the broader mission of advancing higher education in Kansas,” she said.For more than six months, state university leaders expressed alarm about converging financial challenges that included general operational inflation, softness in student enrollment, loss of federal research funding and new financial obligations to college athletes.In response, the Board of Regents approved tuition increases averaging 3.9% for in-state undergraduate university students. University administrators have moved to impose cost-cutting measures to deal with anticipated budget deficits.Girod said the “challenges largely are due to external factors such as disruptions to federal funding, the lack of new state funding, rising costs associated with facilities construction and operations, and the projected nationwide decline in college enrollment.”He said without decisive action KU’s Lawrence campus could wind up with a $4 million shortfall by the end of the fiscal year.“The reality is higher education is at a crossroads, and universities must develop new financial models for the new world we are in,” Girod said.

Kansas Board of Regents’ CEO raises exceed adjustments for university faculty, staff

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas State Fire Marshal (KSFM) Investigation Division was requested to assist with a fatality fire in the 200 block of West 6th&nbsp;Street, Solomon, on Tuesday.

KSFM Special Agents were requested by local authorities after they responded to a house fire with a fatality.&nbsp; Three Special Agents/Certified Fire Investigators were sent to assist with this fire event, according to a media release from the State Fire Marshal's office.

According to the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office, they were notified at 4:44 a.m. of the fire. The residence was fully engulfed when firefighters and deputies arrived.

Deputies assisted a man from the residence through a window. Two adults and a juvenile were able to make it out of the burning structure safely. They notified firefighters and deputies that there was teen still trapped inside. Deputies attempted to gain entry through a doorway and a window, but were not able to gain entry due to the intense heat and smoke.

After the fire was brought under control by firefighters, the female victim, Elizabeth Lillian Ohl, 17, was located inside the residence by firefighters.

The fire incident is classified as undetermined, with multiple potential causes that could not be ruled out.&nbsp;

DICKINSON COUNTY— Authorities are investigating the cause of a fatal fire in Dickinson County.

&nbsp;Just after 4:30a.m. Tuesday the Sheriff’s Office was notified of a house fire in the 200 block of West 6th Street in Solomon, according to a statement from the Dickinson County Sheriff's office.

 The residence was fully engulfed when firefighters and deputies arrived.

Deputies assisted a man from the residence through a window. Two adults and a juvenile were able to make it out of the burning structure safely. They notified firefighters and deputies that there was another person still trapped inside. Deputies attempted to gain entry through a doorway and a window, but were unable to gain entry due to the intense heat and smoke.

After the fire was brought under control, firefighters found the victim was inside of the home. The Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Sheriff’s Office are conducting a joint investigation. The sheriff's office has not released the name of the victim or additional details.

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas State Fire Marshal (KSFM) Investigation Division was requested to assist with a fatality fire in the 200 block of West 6th&nbsp;Street, Solomon, on Tuesday.KSFM Special Agents were requested by local authorities after they responded to a house fire with a fatality.&nbsp; Three Special Agents/Certified Fire Investigators were sent to assist with this fire event, according to a media release from the State Fire Marshal's office.According to the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office, they were notified at 4:44 a.m. of the fire. The residence was fully engulfed when firefighters and deputies arrived.Deputies assisted a man from the residence through a window. Two adults and a juvenile were able to make it out of the burning structure safely. They notified firefighters and deputies that there was teen still trapped inside. Deputies attempted to gain entry through a doorway and a window, but were not able to gain entry due to the intense heat and smoke.After the fire was brought under control by firefighters, the female victim, Elizabeth Lillian Ohl, 17, was located inside the residence by firefighters.The fire incident is classified as undetermined, with multiple potential causes that could not be ruled out.&nbsp;-------------DICKINSON COUNTY— Authorities are investigating the cause of a fatal fire in Dickinson County.&nbsp;Just after 4:30a.m. Tuesday the Sheriff’s Office was notified of a house fire in the 200 block of West 6th Street in Solomon, according to a statement from the Dickinson County Sheriff's office. The residence was fully engulfed when firefighters and deputies arrived.Deputies assisted a man from the residence through a window. Two adults and a juvenile were able to make it out of the burning structure safely. They notified firefighters and deputies that there was another person still trapped inside. Deputies attempted to gain entry through a doorway and a window, but were unable to gain entry due to the intense heat and smoke.After the fire was brought under control, firefighters found the victim was inside of the home. The Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Sheriff’s Office are conducting a joint investigation. The sheriff's office has not released the name of the victim or additional details.

FIre Marshal: 17-year-old died in Kansas house fire

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) Special Hunts program provides limited access to areas not normally open to hunting. More than limited-entry opportunities will be available this fall and winter. While access through the program is free, hunters must still meet all licensing and permit requirements under Kansas law.

Opportunities for deer, upland game, waterfowl, dove, and furbearers will be offered, with hunts taking place on a mix of public lands, parks, private lands, and other select areas. Managers, biologists, landowners, and partners offer these hunts with safety, management, and positive relationships in mind.

All fall and winter special hunt opportunities are available through a single application period, open&nbsp;July 1-29, 2025. Details of each special hunt and application details are available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.com%2FHunting%2FSpecial-Hunts-Information%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=specialhunts/1/01010197c625c3a2-85064a38-b045-4327-877a-57f8d59a220e-000000/2Qp25J40S0RWsDu6869Vgix9_7hIHgMPu8IkHyoMoSU=411">ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Special-Hunts-Information</a>. Successful applicants will be selected through a random drawing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751386668896.jpg" alt="Image Pixaby" />
 <figcaption>Image Pixaby</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) Special Hunts program provides limited access to areas not normally open to hunting. More than limited-entry opportunities will be available this fall and winter. While access through the program is free, hunters must still meet all licensing and permit requirements under Kansas law.Opportunities for deer, upland game, waterfowl, dove, and furbearers will be offered, with hunts taking place on a mix of public lands, parks, private lands, and other select areas. Managers, biologists, landowners, and partners offer these hunts with safety, management, and positive relationships in mind.All fall and winter special hunt opportunities are available through a single application period, open&nbsp;July 1-29, 2025. Details of each special hunt and application details are available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.com%2FHunting%2FSpecial-Hunts-Information%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=specialhunts/1/01010197c625c3a2-85064a38-b045-4327-877a-57f8d59a220e-000000/2Qp25J40S0RWsDu6869Vgix9_7hIHgMPu8IkHyoMoSU=411">ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Special-Hunts-Information</a>. Successful applicants will be selected through a random drawing.

KDWP special hunt application period now open  

The primary election will be August 5. Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert passed along information.

-Tuesday, July 15th 2025, deadline to register to vote or update your voter registration 

-Wednesday, July 16th 2025 thru August 4th @ Noon, 

-In-Person Advance voting begins at the County Building (200 E 8th St Junction City) and Advance Ballots by mail are transmitted 

-Monday, July 28th 2025, Last day to apply for an advance voting mail ballot

 -Monday, August 4th 2025, In-Person Advance voting ends at noon 

-Tuesday, August 5th 2025, Primary Election Day! Voting takes place at your designated polling location

This election is NON-PARTISAN, meaning any registered voter of any political party may vote.

-Junction City Commission is the only race on this ballot.

 -Milford and Grandview Plaza polling places will not be open for the Election on Election Day, they do not have an eligible ballot for this primary since they vote for their own council.

The primary election will be August 5. Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert passed along information.Key Dates for the Primary Election!-Tuesday, July 15th 2025, deadline to register to vote or update your voter registration -Wednesday, July 16th 2025 thru August 4th @ Noon, -In-Person Advance voting begins at the County Building (200 E 8th St Junction City) and Advance Ballots by mail are transmitted -Monday, July 28th 2025, Last day to apply for an advance voting mail ballot -Monday, August 4th 2025, In-Person Advance voting ends at noon -Tuesday, August 5th 2025, Primary Election Day! Voting takes place at your designated polling locationThis election is NON-PARTISAN, meaning any registered voter of any political party may vote.-Junction City Commission is the only race on this ballot. -Milford and Grandview Plaza polling places will not be open for the Election on Election Day, they do not have an eligible ballot for this primary since they vote for their own council.

Primary election information

WEEE Entertainment will operate the carnival at Freedom Fest in Junction City.

The carnival will run Wednesday night through Sunday evening.

WEEE Entertainment will operate the carnival at Freedom Fest in Junction City.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751384658167.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751384682879.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The carnival will run Wednesday night through Sunday evening.

Freedom Fest preparations are under way

This is day 6 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Harvest continues across Kansas, with the USDA reporting it halfway complete, behind last year but close to the five-year average. Farmers are still seeing the effects of heavy rainfall, with muddy fields and delayed progress in several areas. Despite the setbacks, farmers across the state continue to make progress as June comes to an end.

Officially, the Kansas wheat harvest is 53 percent complete, well behind 76 percent complete last year but near 56 percent average, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service crop progress report for the week ending June 29, 2025. Winter wheat conditions were rated 24 percent poor to very poor, 28 percent fair and 48 percent good to excellent.

In south central Kansas and north along the I-135 corridor, excessive rainfall on mature wheat has made harvest difficult. As fields start to dry out and combines cut around mud holes, some localized quality issues are being reported.

In Edwards County, farmer Danny Hattrup started cutting around June 17 and is now about two-thirds of the way through harvest. He’s hoping to wrap things up within the next week. Progress has been slowed by rain delays and lingering muddy spots, which have made fieldwork more complicated than usual.&nbsp;

On Monday, the field Hattrup was cutting was yielding around 50 bushels per acre, with a test weight a little below an average year, around 59 pounds per bushel. Hattrup planted two different wheat varieties this season, and both are performing about the same so far.&nbsp;

This past weekend, harvest became a true team effort with help from his daughters, Brooke and Shelby and his son-in-law Cole, all pitching in to keep things moving.

Harvest is underway in Scott County, where Brinlee McNary, grain merchandiser for the Scott Coop, reported they took in their first load on June 20. She said timely spring rains helped the wheat significantly in the area, contributing to a strong start. The elevator has received about 40 percent of its expected volume so far.

Yields have been highly variable, ranging from 40 to 80 bushels per acre, but McNary noted yields are a little higher than in an average year. Protein levels have ranged from 7 to 15 percent, with the average coming in just under 12 percent.

McNary said the main challenges of this harvest have been the wet conditions and the presence of wheat streak mosaic virus, which has affected some fields in the area.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751322219261.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS WHEAT COMMISSION&nbsp;This is day 6 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Harvest continues across Kansas, with the USDA reporting it halfway complete, behind last year but close to the five-year average. Farmers are still seeing the effects of heavy rainfall, with muddy fields and delayed progress in several areas. Despite the setbacks, farmers across the state continue to make progress as June comes to an end.Officially, the Kansas wheat harvest is 53 percent complete, well behind 76 percent complete last year but near 56 percent average, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service crop progress report for the week ending June 29, 2025. Winter wheat conditions were rated 24 percent poor to very poor, 28 percent fair and 48 percent good to excellent.In south central Kansas and north along the I-135 corridor, excessive rainfall on mature wheat has made harvest difficult. As fields start to dry out and combines cut around mud holes, some localized quality issues are being reported.In Edwards County, farmer Danny Hattrup started cutting around June 17 and is now about two-thirds of the way through harvest. He’s hoping to wrap things up within the next week. Progress has been slowed by rain delays and lingering muddy spots, which have made fieldwork more complicated than usual.&nbsp;On Monday, the field Hattrup was cutting was yielding around 50 bushels per acre, with a test weight a little below an average year, around 59 pounds per bushel. Hattrup planted two different wheat varieties this season, and both are performing about the same so far.&nbsp;This past weekend, harvest became a true team effort with help from his daughters, Brooke and Shelby and his son-in-law Cole, all pitching in to keep things moving.Harvest is underway in Scott County, where Brinlee McNary, grain merchandiser for the Scott Coop, reported they took in their first load on June 20. She said timely spring rains helped the wheat significantly in the area, contributing to a strong start. The elevator has received about 40 percent of its expected volume so far.Yields have been highly variable, ranging from 40 to 80 bushels per acre, but McNary noted yields are a little higher than in an average year. Protein levels have ranged from 7 to 15 percent, with the average coming in just under 12 percent.McNary said the main challenges of this harvest have been the wet conditions and the presence of wheat streak mosaic virus, which has affected some fields in the area.

Kansas Wheat: Wheat harvest day 6

The Trump administration wants Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to raid worksites in the agriculture and hospitality industries, despite an initial reprieve this month. Experts say the policy could hurt businesses that rely on immigrant workers.

<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media</a>

Under orders from the Trump administration, ICE is ramping up arrests and deportations, with a reported goal to make a minimum of 3,000 arrests each day. That includes raids on farms, ranches and dairies.

The approach to immigration enforcement among farm workers continues to swing back and forth under the Trump administration.

On Friday, President Donald Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/trump-says-he-is-looking-new-steps-farm-labor-2025-06-20/" target="_blank">said</a>&nbsp;he’s considering a new policy that would allow the agriculture industry to keep employing immigrants who are not authorized to work, if farmers and ranchers can assume “responsibility” for their workers.

“We're looking at doing something where, in the case of good, reputable farmers, they can take responsibility for the people that they hire and let them have responsibility, because we can't put the farms out of business," Trump said at a recent press conference. "And at the same time we don't want to hurt people that aren't criminals."

Yet last week, the Department of Homeland Security told Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/immigration/2025/06/16/trump-farms-hotels-immigration-raids/?utm_campaign=wp_main&amp;utm_source=twitter&amp;utm_medium=social" target="_blank">continue raids</a>&nbsp;on farms, ranches and dairies across the United States.

That directive was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/13/us/politics/trump-ice-raids-farms-hotels.html" target="_blank">briefly paused</a>&nbsp;by Trump following large ICE operations earlier this month — including the arrests of more than 70 people at a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskapublicmedia.org/en/news/news-articles/people-are-scared-ice-agents-raid-facilities-in-omaha/" target="_blank">meat-packing facility</a>&nbsp;in Omaha, Nebraska. At the time, Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114670684664650262" target="_blank">wrote on Truth Social</a>&nbsp;that the policy was “very aggressive” and could take long-time immigrant workers away from farms.

Despite&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2025/06/16/nx-s1-5430846/farming-industry-immigration-ice-worksite-enforcement-trump" target="_blank">pushback</a>&nbsp;from some leaders in the agriculture industry, as well as people advocating for immigrant worker rights, the Trump administration then&nbsp;<a href="https://www.axios.com/2025/06/19/trump-immigration-raids-farms-hotels-border-czar" target="_blank">said</a>&nbsp;it will continue targeting agriculture worksites, as well as in the hospitality industry, with a focus on people with a criminal background.

Many in the agriculture industry are concerned the policy will constrict labor and hurt both the farm business and everyday consumers. That includes Matt Teagarden, the head of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kla.org/" target="_blank">Kansas Livestock Association</a>, which represents more than 5,000 members in the state.

“These raids disrupt our food supply and contribute to higher food prices,” Teagarden said. “In addition to the workers who’ve been detained, these raids contribute to fear in these communities and lead to workers— fully legal workers — staying home out of fear.”

Under orders from the Trump administration, ICE is ramping up arrests and deportations around the U.S., with a reported goal to make a minimum of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/ices-tactics-draw-criticism-it-triples-daily-arrest-targets-2025-06-10/" target="_blank">3,000 arrests</a>&nbsp;each day.

“There will be no safe spaces for industries who harbor violent criminals or purposely try to undermine ICE’s efforts,” said Tricia McLaughlin, the assistant secretary for public affairs at the Department of Homeland Security, during an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/homeland-security-official-on-the-trump-administrations-immigration-policy-changes" target="_blank">interview with PBS</a>. “Worksite enforcement remains a cornerstone of our efforts to safeguard public safety, national security and economic stability.”

For immigrant workers and the rural communities who depend on their labor, the potential for incoming raids is concerning, said Sonia Parras, an immigration attorney in Des Moines, Iowa.

“The unintended consequence is that they destroyed the lives of the immigrant community, but also the industries, the mom-and-pops shops, and businesses,” Parras said. “Is the cost of a raid — on U.S. citizens and the economy of a town and surrounding areas — worth extracting or detaining immigrants in the area?”

In 2008, Parras provided pro-bono legal services when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2008/06/09/91327136/immigration-raid-leaves-mark-on-iowa-town" target="_blank">ICE raided a meat-packing plant</a>&nbsp;and arrested nearly 400 people in Postville, Iowa. This past week, she said her phone has been ringing “off the hook” with people calling in a panic, asking for help if they get arrested.

“When the administration — to me — prioritizes punitive enforcement that targets these workers, it creates a bit of a paradox where the very workforce that the farmers relied upon is being driven into the shadows,” said Parras.

Throughout the country, 42% of farm workers were not legally authorized to work in the U.S. in 2022, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/chart-gallery/chart-detail?chartId=63466" target="_blank">report</a>&nbsp;from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Another 19% were immigrants authorized to work through visas or who had legal permanent resident status.

Although Teagarden and others in the agriculture industry support immigration enforcement in the form of “securing” the southern U.S. border and “removing violent criminals,” he said they want to work with Trump and Congress to address the issue in a “reasonable way” that supports the industry.

“It really is clear to me that the people pushing for these raids that target farms and feed yards and dairies, have no idea how farms operate.” Teagarden said. “You can’t just turn off a cow. It doesn’t work that way. Cows have to be milked, cattle have to be fed.”

Work from immigrants in the agriculture industry has allowed labor costs for farmers and ranchers to remain low, and ultimately keep food prices lower for consumers, according to David Ortega, a professor of food economics and policy at Michigan State University.

“The agricultural sector relies heavily on migrant workers in order to do some of those critical activities that many U.S. born workers are either unable or unwilling to perform,” Ortega said. “Things like harvesting, planting, working in meatpacking plants, all of the critical activities that are needed to get food from the farm all the way to the table.”

Some agriculture stakeholders throughout the Midwest, particularly in the specialty crop sector who rely on immigrant labor, are already raising concerns, Ortega said. Without some protections in place for immigrants working in the agriculture industry, the enforcement policy is having a “chilling effect” on workers who are not easily replaced — even those who are authorized to work in the U.S. — he said.

“It's not surprising that we're seeing producers reach out to individuals in elected positions, noting that these activities, the rhetoric that the Trump administration has on illegal immigration and these mass deportations, are affecting their business,” Ortega said.

This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media</a>, a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest and Great Plains. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751055280443.png" alt="A Mason /&nbsp;U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement" />
 <figcaption>A Mason /&nbsp;U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The Trump administration wants Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to raid worksites in the agriculture and hospitality industries, despite an initial reprieve this month. Experts say the policy could hurt businesses that rely on immigrant workers.</h2><a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media</a>Under orders from the Trump administration, ICE is ramping up arrests and deportations, with a reported goal to make a minimum of 3,000 arrests each day. That includes raids on farms, ranches and dairies.The approach to immigration enforcement among farm workers continues to swing back and forth under the Trump administration.On Friday, President Donald Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/trump-says-he-is-looking-new-steps-farm-labor-2025-06-20/" target="_blank">said</a>&nbsp;he’s considering a new policy that would allow the agriculture industry to keep employing immigrants who are not authorized to work, if farmers and ranchers can assume “responsibility” for their workers.“We're looking at doing something where, in the case of good, reputable farmers, they can take responsibility for the people that they hire and let them have responsibility, because we can't put the farms out of business," Trump said at a recent press conference. "And at the same time we don't want to hurt people that aren't criminals."Yet last week, the Department of Homeland Security told Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/immigration/2025/06/16/trump-farms-hotels-immigration-raids/?utm_campaign=wp_main&amp;utm_source=twitter&amp;utm_medium=social" target="_blank">continue raids</a>&nbsp;on farms, ranches and dairies across the United States.That directive was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/13/us/politics/trump-ice-raids-farms-hotels.html" target="_blank">briefly paused</a>&nbsp;by Trump following large ICE operations earlier this month — including the arrests of more than 70 people at a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskapublicmedia.org/en/news/news-articles/people-are-scared-ice-agents-raid-facilities-in-omaha/" target="_blank">meat-packing facility</a>&nbsp;in Omaha, Nebraska. At the time, Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114670684664650262" target="_blank">wrote on Truth Social</a>&nbsp;that the policy was “very aggressive” and could take long-time immigrant workers away from farms.Despite&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2025/06/16/nx-s1-5430846/farming-industry-immigration-ice-worksite-enforcement-trump" target="_blank">pushback</a>&nbsp;from some leaders in the agriculture industry, as well as people advocating for immigrant worker rights, the Trump administration then&nbsp;<a href="https://www.axios.com/2025/06/19/trump-immigration-raids-farms-hotels-border-czar" target="_blank">said</a>&nbsp;it will continue targeting agriculture worksites, as well as in the hospitality industry, with a focus on people with a criminal background.Many in the agriculture industry are concerned the policy will constrict labor and hurt both the farm business and everyday consumers. That includes Matt Teagarden, the head of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kla.org/" target="_blank">Kansas Livestock Association</a>, which represents more than 5,000 members in the state.“These raids disrupt our food supply and contribute to higher food prices,” Teagarden said. “In addition to the workers who’ve been detained, these raids contribute to fear in these communities and lead to workers— fully legal workers — staying home out of fear.”Under orders from the Trump administration, ICE is ramping up arrests and deportations around the U.S., with a reported goal to make a minimum of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/ices-tactics-draw-criticism-it-triples-daily-arrest-targets-2025-06-10/" target="_blank">3,000 arrests</a>&nbsp;each day.“There will be no safe spaces for industries who harbor violent criminals or purposely try to undermine ICE’s efforts,” said Tricia McLaughlin, the assistant secretary for public affairs at the Department of Homeland Security, during an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/homeland-security-official-on-the-trump-administrations-immigration-policy-changes" target="_blank">interview with PBS</a>. “Worksite enforcement remains a cornerstone of our efforts to safeguard public safety, national security and economic stability.”For immigrant workers and the rural communities who depend on their labor, the potential for incoming raids is concerning, said Sonia Parras, an immigration attorney in Des Moines, Iowa.“The unintended consequence is that they destroyed the lives of the immigrant community, but also the industries, the mom-and-pops shops, and businesses,” Parras said. “Is the cost of a raid — on U.S. citizens and the economy of a town and surrounding areas — worth extracting or detaining immigrants in the area?”In 2008, Parras provided pro-bono legal services when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2008/06/09/91327136/immigration-raid-leaves-mark-on-iowa-town" target="_blank">ICE raided a meat-packing plant</a>&nbsp;and arrested nearly 400 people in Postville, Iowa. This past week, she said her phone has been ringing “off the hook” with people calling in a panic, asking for help if they get arrested.“When the administration — to me — prioritizes punitive enforcement that targets these workers, it creates a bit of a paradox where the very workforce that the farmers relied upon is being driven into the shadows,” said Parras.Throughout the country, 42% of farm workers were not legally authorized to work in the U.S. in 2022, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/chart-gallery/chart-detail?chartId=63466" target="_blank">report</a>&nbsp;from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Another 19% were immigrants authorized to work through visas or who had legal permanent resident status.Although Teagarden and others in the agriculture industry support immigration enforcement in the form of “securing” the southern U.S. border and “removing violent criminals,” he said they want to work with Trump and Congress to address the issue in a “reasonable way” that supports the industry.“It really is clear to me that the people pushing for these raids that target farms and feed yards and dairies, have no idea how farms operate.” Teagarden said. “You can’t just turn off a cow. It doesn’t work that way. Cows have to be milked, cattle have to be fed.”Work from immigrants in the agriculture industry has allowed labor costs for farmers and ranchers to remain low, and ultimately keep food prices lower for consumers, according to David Ortega, a professor of food economics and policy at Michigan State University.“The agricultural sector relies heavily on migrant workers in order to do some of those critical activities that many U.S. born workers are either unable or unwilling to perform,” Ortega said. “Things like harvesting, planting, working in meatpacking plants, all of the critical activities that are needed to get food from the farm all the way to the table.”Some agriculture stakeholders throughout the Midwest, particularly in the specialty crop sector who rely on immigrant labor, are already raising concerns, Ortega said. Without some protections in place for immigrants working in the agriculture industry, the enforcement policy is having a “chilling effect” on workers who are not easily replaced — even those who are authorized to work in the U.S. — he said.“It's not surprising that we're seeing producers reach out to individuals in elected positions, noting that these activities, the rhetoric that the Trump administration has on illegal immigration and these mass deportations, are affecting their business,” Ortega said.This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media</a>, a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest and Great Plains. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.

ICE raids push farm workers to stay home ‘out of fear.’ That could hurt U.S. food production

The action is not final but Geary County Commissioners have voted 3-0 in favor of a one percent increase in the transient guest tax paid by visitors using lodging facilities. A charter resolution must still be prepared and voted on by the governing body. The current TGT rate is six percent with an increase pushing it to seven. The new one percent would be added to an existing one percent fund that is already designated for a future sports complex.

Commissioner Trish Giordano made the motion that on first consideration passed 2-1. Commissioner Keith Ascher voted no but after learning that a split vote could allow a petition drive and force an election he changed his vote to yes.

The motion would allow up to $100,000 of the new money to be used for improvement of current facilities and the remainder to go into the existing fund. There Is more than $800,000 currently in that fund. There would also be caveats calling for the money to be placed in an interest bearing account and for the agreement to be reviewed in two years.

Legal counsel will prepare the charter resolution to replace an existing resolution and will now bring it to the governing body.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThe action is not final but Geary County Commissioners have voted 3-0 in favor of a one percent increase in the transient guest tax paid by visitors using lodging facilities. A charter resolution must still be prepared and voted on by the governing body. The current TGT rate is six percent with an increase pushing it to seven. The new one percent would be added to an existing one percent fund that is already designated for a future sports complex.Commissioner Trish Giordano made the motion that on first consideration passed 2-1. Commissioner Keith Ascher voted no but after learning that a split vote could allow a petition drive and force an election he changed his vote to yes.The motion would allow up to $100,000 of the new money to be used for improvement of current facilities and the remainder to go into the existing fund. There Is more than $800,000 currently in that fund. There would also be caveats calling for the money to be placed in an interest bearing account and for the agreement to be reviewed in two years.Legal counsel will prepare the charter resolution to replace an existing resolution and will now bring it to the governing body.

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