Geary County officials are searching for solutions to sewer blockage at the Sheriff's Department administrative offices which are located one floor below jail cells. Officials point to inmates stuffing items into toilets, resulting in backups. Current piping is old and small, so one suggestion is to move forward with larger piping if it is determined to be feasible.

Some staff have been relocated to the 10th Street warehouse and others to a lower level area of the Department's main building.

There were sewer blockage problems seven times in July.

The county commission has directed their chair, Trish Giordano, to move forward with the necessary costs to fix the problem.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722978079884.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Geary County officials are searching for solutions to sewer blockage at the Sheriff's Department administrative offices which are located one floor below jail cells. Officials point to inmates stuffing items into toilets, resulting in backups. Current piping is old and small, so one suggestion is to move forward with larger piping if it is determined to be feasible.Some staff have been relocated to the 10th Street warehouse and others to a lower level area of the Department's main building.There were sewer blockage problems seven times in July.The county commission has directed their chair, Trish Giordano, to move forward with the necessary costs to fix the problem.

Officials tackle a jail - sewer problem 

&nbsp;TOPEKA— In accordance with Executive Order #20-30, Governor Laura Kelly has directed flags throughout the State of Kansas be flown at half-staff from sunup to sundown on Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, in honor of Wichita Firefighter Ty Voth, who passed away in the line of duty on Aug. 1, 2024.

“Ty Voth made the ultimate sacrifice, and he was taken much too soon,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“His dedication and selflessness will not be forgotten. My deepest condolences go out to his family, loved ones, colleagues, and the entire Wichita community.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722607741656.png" alt="Ty Voth courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Ty Voth courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;TOPEKA— In accordance with Executive Order #20-30, Governor Laura Kelly has directed flags throughout the State of Kansas be flown at half-staff from sunup to sundown on Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, in honor of Wichita Firefighter Ty Voth, who passed away in the line of duty on Aug. 1, 2024.“Ty Voth made the ultimate sacrifice, and he was taken much too soon,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“His dedication and selflessness will not be forgotten. My deepest condolences go out to his family, loved ones, colleagues, and the entire Wichita community.”

Governor Kelly directs flags be flown at half-staff Friday

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.

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/2024/8/1722962144214.jpeg" alt="Linus Davis, Failure to appear, arrested 08/05" />
 <figcaption>Linus Davis, Failure to appear, arrested 08/05</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722962179100.jpeg" alt="Christopher Barnes, Criminal damage to property, Aggravated assault, Use of a deadly weapon, Criminal discharge of a firearm, Criminal possession of a weapon, Firearm used in a crime, Stalking, arrested 08/05" />
 <figcaption>Christopher Barnes, Criminal damage to property, Aggravated assault, Use of a deadly weapon, Criminal discharge of a firearm, Criminal possession of a weapon, Firearm used in a crime, Stalking, arrested 08/05</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722962312012.jpeg" alt="Ricardo Lopez-Garcia, Probation violation, arrested 08/05" />
 <figcaption>Ricardo Lopez-Garcia, Probation violation, arrested 08/05</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722962342319.jpeg" alt="Anthony Bilyeu, Unlawful restraint, Unlawful damage to property, Domestic battery, arrested 08/06" />
 <figcaption>Anthony Bilyeu, Unlawful restraint, Unlawful damage to property, Domestic battery, arrested 08/06</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722962387993.jpeg" alt="Mikal Kairson, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, Fleeing and eluding, arrested 08/06" />
 <figcaption>Mikal Kairson, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, Fleeing and eluding, arrested 08/06</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722962432114.jpeg" alt="Jada Floyd, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 08/06" />
 <figcaption>Jada Floyd, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 08/06</figcaption>
 </figure>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.

Geary County Booking Photos Aug. 6

Geary County Commissioners have voted to accept an offer from the City of Junction City on payment of monthly EMS fees to the city in 2024. The amount will be $145,000. The County is proposing a 5% increase for 2025.

The two sides had been negotiating the 2024 fees for some time.

Geary County Commissioners have voted to accept an offer from the City of Junction City on payment of monthly EMS fees to the city in 2024. The amount will be $145,000. The County is proposing a 5% increase for 2025.The two sides had been negotiating the 2024 fees for some time.

Agreement is reached on EMS fees for 2024

Geary County Rural Fire Chief Garry Berges reported this week that his department had responded year to 66 fires in July, down from 88 one year ago at this time. There were eight fires in July of this year including one building fire at a Skiddy Road location. A barbecue grill caught fire to the inside of&nbsp; a garage causing about $85,000 damage.

Berges delivered his report to the Geary County Commission.

Geary County Rural Fire Chief Garry Berges reported this week that his department had responded year to 66 fires in July, down from 88 one year ago at this time. There were eight fires in July of this year including one building fire at a Skiddy Road location. A barbecue grill caught fire to the inside of&nbsp; a garage causing about $85,000 damage.Berges delivered his report to the Geary County Commission.

Geary County Rural Fire report 

RILEY COUNTY—There were no injuries after an kitchen fire in Manhattan.

Just after 11p.m. Monday, the Manhattan Fire Department was dispatched to a fire at 1207 Kearney Street Apartment 4, according to a media release.

Crews found a three-story apartment building with nothing showing.&nbsp; Upon investigation, crews found smoke and fire upon entering apartment 4&nbsp; in the three-story apartment building and they quickly extinguished a small fire on the stove. 

Fire damage was contained to the apartment where the fire started.&nbsp; The occupant was alerted by the smoke detectors in the apartment and was able to safely exit. There were no injuries reported. 

The occupant of apartment 4 was displaced from the residence due to fire damage.&nbsp; 

The fire department said this is a great reminder to ensure having working smoke alarms. Loss is estimated at $10,000 to the structure and $1000 to contents.&nbsp; The fire's cause was due to an unattended cooking fire.&nbsp;&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY—There were no injuries after an kitchen fire in Manhattan.Just after 11p.m. Monday, the Manhattan Fire Department was dispatched to a fire at 1207 Kearney Street Apartment 4, according to a media release.Crews found a three-story apartment building with nothing showing.&nbsp; Upon investigation, crews found smoke and fire upon entering apartment 4&nbsp; in the three-story apartment building and they quickly extinguished a small fire on the stove. Fire damage was contained to the apartment where the fire started.&nbsp; The occupant was alerted by the smoke detectors in the apartment and was able to safely exit. There were no injuries reported. The occupant of apartment 4 was displaced from the residence due to fire damage.&nbsp; The fire department said this is a great reminder to ensure having working smoke alarms. Loss is estimated at $10,000 to the structure and $1000 to contents.&nbsp; The fire's cause was due to an unattended cooking fire.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kitchen fire caused $11,000 damage

GEARY COUNTY —A Junction City man died in an accident just before 3:30p.m. Monday in Geary County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1996 Toyota Tacoma driven by Robert Mitchell Cleveland, 72, Junction City, was westbound on Interstate 70 just east of East Street. 

The front driver-side tire of the pickup blew. The vehicle veered into the eastbound lane and struck a 2023 Ford Bronco driven by Robert Edward George, 46, Fowler, Colorado,&nbsp; head-on.

Cleveland was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Johnson Funeral Home.&nbsp; EMS transported George and a passenger in the Ford Crystal Challene&nbsp;Cloninger, 48, Canyon City, Colorado, to Stormont Vail. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

There has been one confirmed fatality in an accident on Interstate 70 on Monday.

Eastbound traffic has been near a standstill following the accident which occurred near the 298 mile marker on Interstate 70, according to authorities. The Geary County Sheriff's Department said that they hope to have the interstate partially open around 5 p.m. Cleanup is under way.

Geary County Emergency Management confirmed that eastbound traffic is being diverted to Grandview plaza and then through Junction City.

This is the second fatal accident on I-70 near Junction City in recent days.

JC Post will report details when they become available.

GEARY COUNTY —A Junction City man died in an accident just before 3:30p.m. Monday in Geary County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1996 Toyota Tacoma driven by Robert Mitchell Cleveland, 72, Junction City, was westbound on Interstate 70 just east of East Street. The front driver-side tire of the pickup blew. The vehicle veered into the eastbound lane and struck a 2023 Ford Bronco driven by Robert Edward George, 46, Fowler, Colorado,&nbsp; head-on.Cleveland was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Johnson Funeral Home.&nbsp; EMS transported George and a passenger in the Ford Crystal Challene&nbsp;Cloninger, 48, Canyon City, Colorado, to Stormont Vail. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.----------------There has been one confirmed fatality in an accident on Interstate 70 on Monday.Eastbound traffic has been near a standstill following the accident which occurred near the 298 mile marker on Interstate 70, according to authorities. The Geary County Sheriff's Department said that they hope to have the interstate partially open around 5 p.m. Cleanup is under way.Geary County Emergency Management confirmed that eastbound traffic is being diverted to Grandview plaza and then through Junction City.This is the second fatal accident on I-70 near Junction City in recent days.JC Post will report details when they become available.

Junction City man dies after I-70 head-on crash

The Geary County CVB has announced that Ellie the Eagle &amp; Paige Mendoza were out helping the United Way with their "Stuff the Bus" campaign this past weekend. Volunteers were stationed at the entrances at both Walmart and Dillons stores collecting school supply donations.

The CVB also wants to recognize all of the Geary County Associates who are donating to the cause and filling backpacks to help the children in the community have what they need so they can focus on learning.

The Geary County CVB has also partnered with the school district and will be delivering approximately 1600 Coloring and Activity Books for the 3rd, 4th and 5th grade students.&nbsp;

CVB releaseThe Geary County CVB has announced that Ellie the Eagle &amp; Paige Mendoza were out helping the United Way with their "Stuff the Bus" campaign this past weekend. Volunteers were stationed at the entrances at both Walmart and Dillons stores collecting school supply donations.The CVB also wants to recognize all of the Geary County Associates who are donating to the cause and filling backpacks to help the children in the community have what they need so they can focus on learning.The Geary County CVB has also partnered with the school district and will be delivering approximately 1600 Coloring and Activity Books for the 3rd, 4th and 5th grade students.&nbsp;

Geary County CVB supports back to school efforts

The City of Junction City Public Works Department turned on the School Zone Warning Flashers on Monday, August 5th as a reminder that school will soon be in session.

The School Zone Warning Flashers will be turned on all week as a reminder for drivers that area schools will be in session the week starting Monday, August 12th and to obey the 20 MPH school speed zones. Drivers also need to pay close attention to the school children during the morning and afternoon hours when children will be walking.

The City of Junction City Public Works Department turned on the School Zone Warning Flashers on Monday, August 5th as a reminder that school will soon be in session.The School Zone Warning Flashers will be turned on all week as a reminder for drivers that area schools will be in session the week starting Monday, August 12th and to obey the 20 MPH school speed zones. Drivers also need to pay close attention to the school children during the morning and afternoon hours when children will be walking.

School zone warning flashers are being used

CLAY COUNTY—The Kansas Highway Patrol on Monday identified the man who died in an accident that occurred just before 1:30p.m. Saturday in Clay County.

According to the patrol, a 2023 Chevy Tahoe driven by Hannah Marie&nbsp;Fahey, 25, Clay Center, was northbound on Kansas 15&nbsp;attempting to turn westbound on Kansas Highway 9.&nbsp; The driver&nbsp;turned in front of a southbound 2002 Harley Davidson Electra Glide driven by Daniel Eugene Barnhilld, 56, Washington, Kansas.&nbsp; The motorcycle struck the SUV.

Barnhilld was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home. Fahey was not injured and had one juvenile in the Tahoe.&nbsp;&nbsp;Barnhilld was not wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

CLAY COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash that occurred just before 1:30p.m. Saturday in Clay County.

A vehicle was southbound on Kansas 15 one mile north of 30th road. The vehicle struck a northbound vehicle that turned in front of the southbound vehicle while making a westbound turn on Kansas 9 Highway.

Both vehicles came to rest on Kansas 15. The KHP released no additional details early Sunday. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

CLAY COUNTY—The Kansas Highway Patrol on Monday identified the man who died in an accident that occurred just before 1:30p.m. Saturday in Clay County.According to the patrol, a 2023 Chevy Tahoe driven by Hannah Marie&nbsp;Fahey, 25, Clay Center, was northbound on Kansas 15&nbsp;attempting to turn westbound on Kansas Highway 9.&nbsp; The driver&nbsp;turned in front of a southbound 2002 Harley Davidson Electra Glide driven by Daniel Eugene Barnhilld, 56, Washington, Kansas.&nbsp; The motorcycle struck the SUV.Barnhilld was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home. Fahey was not injured and had one juvenile in the Tahoe.&nbsp;&nbsp;Barnhilld was not wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.-------------CLAY COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash that occurred just before 1:30p.m. Saturday in Clay County.A vehicle was southbound on Kansas 15 one mile north of 30th road. The vehicle struck a northbound vehicle that turned in front of the southbound vehicle while making a westbound turn on Kansas 9 Highway.Both vehicles came to rest on Kansas 15. The KHP released no additional details early Sunday. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

KHP IDs Kansas man who died in motorcycle, SUV crash

Police are reporting the arrest of a 31 year old Junction City man, Christopher Barnes, in a shots fired case.&nbsp;

Assistant Police Chief Cory Odell reported that the call came in about 11:30 p.m. Sunday. Police cordoned off the 1200, 1300 and 1400 blocks of North Washington Street downtown for their investigation. That area has since been reopened.

Barnes was arrested at a Sandusky Street location on recommended charges&nbsp; of Stalking, Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm, Felony Possession of a Firearm, and drug related allegations.

Barnes is being held in the Geary County Detention Center without bond. There were not any injuries in the case.

Police are reporting the arrest of a 31 year old Junction City man, Christopher Barnes, in a shots fired case.&nbsp;Assistant Police Chief Cory Odell reported that the call came in about 11:30 p.m. Sunday. Police cordoned off the 1200, 1300 and 1400 blocks of North Washington Street downtown for their investigation. That area has since been reopened.Barnes was arrested at a Sandusky Street location on recommended charges&nbsp; of Stalking, Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm, Felony Possession of a Firearm, and drug related allegations.Barnes is being held in the Geary County Detention Center without bond. There were not any injuries in the case.

Authorities make one arrest in a shots fired case

City of Junction City, Quality Play for All , Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas and the National Fitness Campaign will Launch the Fitness Court® at 5th Street Playground Park in Junction City Wednesday August 7, at 10:00 a.m.

Featured speakers will include Vice Mayor Ronna Larson of Junction City, Kendall Schoenrock, Quality Play for All, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas, Kelly Cook, Director of Membership Relations, of the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce

&nbsp;Fitness Court ®will provide the region with equitable access to free Healthy Infrastructure that allows users to leverage their own body weight to get a complete workout in seven movements. The Fitness Courts® are created with adults of all ages and abilities in mind, allowing users to move at their own pace. Fitness Court users are encouraged to download the free mobile application, the Fitness Court App, which offers world-class workouts and acts as a coach-in-your-pocket. 

By Dewey TerrillJC PostCity of Junction City, Quality Play for All , Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas and the National Fitness Campaign will Launch the Fitness Court® at 5th Street Playground Park in Junction City Wednesday August 7, at 10:00 a.m.Featured speakers will include Vice Mayor Ronna Larson of Junction City, Kendall Schoenrock, Quality Play for All, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas, Kelly Cook, Director of Membership Relations, of the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce&nbsp;Fitness Court ®will provide the region with equitable access to free Healthy Infrastructure that allows users to leverage their own body weight to get a complete workout in seven movements. The Fitness Courts® are created with adults of all ages and abilities in mind, allowing users to move at their own pace. Fitness Court users are encouraged to download the free mobile application, the Fitness Court App, which offers world-class workouts and acts as a coach-in-your-pocket.

Fitness Court will be launched

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Sunday in Riley County.

A 2016 Dodge Caravan driven by 62-year-old Deanna Currey of Riley, rounded a corner at Barton and Falcon Roads, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Currey was unable to stop and the van rear-ended a 2023 Audi driven by 70-year-old Deborah Dugan of Castle Rock, Colorado. 

EMS transported Dugan to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Currey was issued a citation for following too close.

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Sunday in Riley County.A 2016 Dodge Caravan driven by 62-year-old Deanna Currey of Riley, rounded a corner at Barton and Falcon Roads, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Currey was unable to stop and the van rear-ended a 2023 Audi driven by 70-year-old Deborah Dugan of Castle Rock, Colorado. EMS transported Dugan to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Currey was issued a citation for following too close.

Woman hospitalized after Riley Co. rear-end crash

The Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR) is excited to announce that voting for the next Kansas personalized license plate design is now open. Starting today, Kansans can visit <a href="http://ksplates.kansas.gov">ksplates.kansas.gov</a> to select their favorite design. Voting will end at 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 9, and the winning design will be announced on Monday, Aug. 12.

“We know how passionate Kansans are about license plates, and this initiative aims to give the public a direct say in selecting the next personalized plate design that will be featured on vehicles across the state for years to come,”&nbsp;said David Harper, Director of KDOR Division of Vehicles. “We look forward to seeing which design Kansans choose.”

The website offers five distinctive design options for Kansans to select from.

Voting on this round of personalized designs is different from the standard license plate designs Kansans voted on last December. To streamline the process and meet production deadlines, KDOR incorporated feedback from last year’s voting to inform aspects of these designs, including a Kansas outline, wheat, and sunflowers.

The winning design will replace the current “Powering the Future” personalized license plate design.

Residents may vote for their preferred design multiple times. Shortly after the voting concludes, the winning design will enter production and be available for purchase in 2025.

The voting website was made possible with help from the Information Network of Kansas. Kansans can cast their vote by visiting <a href="http://ksplates.kansas.gov">ksplates.kansas.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722865450776.png" alt="Kansans can visit ksplates.kansas.gov to select their favorite design. Voting will end at 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 9, and the winning design will be announced on Monday, Aug. 12." />
 <figcaption>Kansans can visit ksplates.kansas.gov to select their favorite design. Voting will end at 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 9, and the winning design will be announced on Monday, Aug. 12.</figcaption>
 </figure>KDORThe Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR) is excited to announce that voting for the next Kansas personalized license plate design is now open. Starting today, Kansans can visit <a href="http://ksplates.kansas.gov">ksplates.kansas.gov</a> to select their favorite design. Voting will end at 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 9, and the winning design will be announced on Monday, Aug. 12.“We know how passionate Kansans are about license plates, and this initiative aims to give the public a direct say in selecting the next personalized plate design that will be featured on vehicles across the state for years to come,”&nbsp;said David Harper, Director of KDOR Division of Vehicles. “We look forward to seeing which design Kansans choose.”The website offers five distinctive design options for Kansans to select from.Voting on this round of personalized designs is different from the standard license plate designs Kansans voted on last December. To streamline the process and meet production deadlines, KDOR incorporated feedback from last year’s voting to inform aspects of these designs, including a Kansas outline, wheat, and sunflowers.The winning design will replace the current “Powering the Future” personalized license plate design.Residents may vote for their preferred design multiple times. Shortly after the voting concludes, the winning design will enter production and be available for purchase in 2025.The voting website was made possible with help from the Information Network of Kansas. Kansans can cast their vote by visiting <a href="http://ksplates.kansas.gov">ksplates.kansas.gov</a>.

Kansas Department of Revenue — Voting open for new personalized license plate design

Governor Laura Kelly recently signed a proclamation recognizing August as “Kansas Breastfeeding Month,” highlighting the importance of breastfeeding for the health and well-being of Kansans. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition have partnered in bringing awareness to the many benefits of breastfeeding.

“We are extremely pleased with Governor Kelly’s proclamation, which highlights the importance of breastfeeding support for families in Kansas,”&nbsp;Brenda Bandy, IBCLC, Executive Director of the Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition (KBC), said.&nbsp;“This proclamation supports their decision and fosters a landscape of breastfeeding support in our state for the benefit of Kansas children and families.”&nbsp;

Over 90 percent of families in Kansas choose to breastfeed. Yet less than one in four Kansas infants are exclusively breastfed through the critical first six months of life. Lack of support and barriers in the workplace can often be obstacles for parents who choose to breastfeed.&nbsp;

“We know breastfeeding has many positive impacts,”&nbsp;Derik Flerlage, Director of KDHE Bureau of Family Health, said. “Strong statewide partnerships and community collaboration allow our programs to better serve the needs of Kansas families as they care for children during their critical first months.”

Breastfeeding support where families work and care for their children will improve the baby's and the mother’s future health.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vcHVibGljYXRpb25zLmFhcC5vcmcvcGVkaWF0cmljcy9hcnRpY2xlLzE1MC8xL2UyMDIyMDU3OTg4LzE4ODM0Ny9Qb2xpY3ktU3RhdGVtZW50LUJyZWFzdGZlZWRpbmctYW5kLXRoZS1Vc2Utb2Y_YXV0b2xvZ2luY2hlY2s9cmVkaXJlY3RlZCZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwODAyLjk4NTAzNTUxIn0.XLe3gFmm7LJekT6p23LCX6vuEs-x1L7WwQqaAZKZqMs/s/1305935158/br/246826442243-l">The American Academy of Pediatrics</a>&nbsp;guidance on breastfeeding calls for policy changes to address obstacles for parents who choose to breastfeed, including universal paid maternity leave and insurance coverage for lactation support.

Governor Kelly’s proclamation stresses the role of every Kansan to make breastfeeding easier in our state. The KBC&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NicmVhc3RmZWVkaW5nLm9yZy93cC1jb250ZW50L3VwbG9hZHMvMjAyNC8wNC9zdGF0ZW9mQkZpbktTMjAyMy1yZXZfT2N0LnBkZj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwODAyLjk4NTAzNTUxIn0.ddSn_8Q9Q3bRmuUpOLFPVFlA1NqNRWurK1aYvgUgNYo/s/1305935158/br/246826442243-l">State of Breastfeeding in Kansas 2023 report</a>&nbsp;has the most recent breastfeeding rates for Kansas along with action items and resources for individuals, employers, child care providers, health care professionals and others to support breastfeeding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722863243122.jpeg" alt="(left to right) Jeff Usher, Amanda Peterson, Heather Braum, Stephanne Rupnicki, Mandy Chapin, Governor Laura Kelly, Danica Pelzel, Trini Murguia, Amy Trollinger and Diana Lady. Photo Courtesy Office of Governor Laura Kelly" />
 <figcaption>(left to right) Jeff Usher, Amanda Peterson, Heather Braum, Stephanne Rupnicki, Mandy Chapin, Governor Laura Kelly, Danica Pelzel, Trini Murguia, Amy Trollinger and Diana Lady. Photo Courtesy Office of Governor Laura Kelly</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Governor Laura KellyGovernor Laura Kelly recently signed a proclamation recognizing August as “Kansas Breastfeeding Month,” highlighting the importance of breastfeeding for the health and well-being of Kansans. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition have partnered in bringing awareness to the many benefits of breastfeeding.“We are extremely pleased with Governor Kelly’s proclamation, which highlights the importance of breastfeeding support for families in Kansas,”&nbsp;Brenda Bandy, IBCLC, Executive Director of the Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition (KBC), said.&nbsp;“This proclamation supports their decision and fosters a landscape of breastfeeding support in our state for the benefit of Kansas children and families.”&nbsp;Over 90 percent of families in Kansas choose to breastfeed. Yet less than one in four Kansas infants are exclusively breastfed through the critical first six months of life. Lack of support and barriers in the workplace can often be obstacles for parents who choose to breastfeed.&nbsp;“We know breastfeeding has many positive impacts,”&nbsp;Derik Flerlage, Director of KDHE Bureau of Family Health, said. “Strong statewide partnerships and community collaboration allow our programs to better serve the needs of Kansas families as they care for children during their critical first months.”Breastfeeding support where families work and care for their children will improve the baby's and the mother’s future health.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vcHVibGljYXRpb25zLmFhcC5vcmcvcGVkaWF0cmljcy9hcnRpY2xlLzE1MC8xL2UyMDIyMDU3OTg4LzE4ODM0Ny9Qb2xpY3ktU3RhdGVtZW50LUJyZWFzdGZlZWRpbmctYW5kLXRoZS1Vc2Utb2Y_YXV0b2xvZ2luY2hlY2s9cmVkaXJlY3RlZCZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwODAyLjk4NTAzNTUxIn0.XLe3gFmm7LJekT6p23LCX6vuEs-x1L7WwQqaAZKZqMs/s/1305935158/br/246826442243-l">The American Academy of Pediatrics</a>&nbsp;guidance on breastfeeding calls for policy changes to address obstacles for parents who choose to breastfeed, including universal paid maternity leave and insurance coverage for lactation support.Governor Kelly’s proclamation stresses the role of every Kansan to make breastfeeding easier in our state. The KBC&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NicmVhc3RmZWVkaW5nLm9yZy93cC1jb250ZW50L3VwbG9hZHMvMjAyNC8wNC9zdGF0ZW9mQkZpbktTMjAyMy1yZXZfT2N0LnBkZj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwODAyLjk4NTAzNTUxIn0.ddSn_8Q9Q3bRmuUpOLFPVFlA1NqNRWurK1aYvgUgNYo/s/1305935158/br/246826442243-l">State of Breastfeeding in Kansas 2023 report</a>&nbsp;has the most recent breastfeeding rates for Kansas along with action items and resources for individuals, employers, child care providers, health care professionals and others to support breastfeeding.

Governor Kelly proclaims August 'Kansas Breastfeeding Month'

Members of the&nbsp; community had an opportunity to purchase and deposit supplies for Stuff the Bus&nbsp; on Saturday at Dillons and the Walmart Supercenter in Junction City. The effort provides school supplies for children in Geary USD 475, Chapman USD 473 and Saint Xavier School.

Saturday was the final big collection day. Nichole Mader, United Way Director, said supplies are then taken to Spin City on South Washington, volunteers come in over a two-day period for a count on the amounts received. Supplies will then be divided up for different schools. "I work with the schools very closely and I love our relationship with them."

Data gathered in earlier surveys is used to help determine&nbsp; the right amount of supplies for each school. In a normal year about 7,000 items are received and approximately 3,500 to 4,000 students receive that service.

Mallory Larsen, Grandview Elementary School Principal, said cash donations were received and people were stopping by to learn about their mission and taking a list of needed supplies. Some donations received included school supply kits, crayons, markers and clorox wipes. Dry erase markers are a big need.

Larsen is excited for the school year to begin. "Excited to get the teachers in the building next week and then the students the week after that."

Washington Elementary School and the Optimist Club were also represented during the Saturday collection at the Walmart Supercenter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722728964212.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Members of the&nbsp; community had an opportunity to purchase and deposit supplies for Stuff the Bus&nbsp; on Saturday at Dillons and the Walmart Supercenter in Junction City. The effort provides school supplies for children in Geary USD 475, Chapman USD 473 and Saint Xavier School.Saturday was the final big collection day. Nichole Mader, United Way Director, said supplies are then taken to Spin City on South Washington, volunteers come in over a two-day period for a count on the amounts received. Supplies will then be divided up for different schools. "I work with the schools very closely and I love our relationship with them."Data gathered in earlier surveys is used to help determine&nbsp; the right amount of supplies for each school. In a normal year about 7,000 items are received and approximately 3,500 to 4,000 students receive that service.Mallory Larsen, Grandview Elementary School Principal, said cash donations were received and people were stopping by to learn about their mission and taking a list of needed supplies. Some donations received included school supply kits, crayons, markers and clorox wipes. Dry erase markers are a big need.Larsen is excited for the school year to begin. "Excited to get the teachers in the building next week and then the students the week after that."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722729899076.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Washington Elementary School and the Optimist Club were also represented during the Saturday collection at the Walmart Supercenter.

Final big collection day for Stuff the Bus

(MANHATTAN, Kan. – August 2, 2024)&nbsp;— The City of Manhattan is pleased to announce that the City Commission will vote on&nbsp;Tuesday, August 6&nbsp;to appoint Danielle Dulin to serve as Manhattan’s ninth City Manager, with an anticipated start date of&nbsp;Monday, October 14.

Dulin was selected following a nationwide search conducted by Strategic Government Resources (SGR) that produced a field of 50 candidates and an extensive interview process involving four finalists who visited Manhattan.

“The process went smoothly, and we were very pleased with SGR’s services. The high quality of our candidate pool speaks to Manhattan’s tremendous appeal,” said Mayor Susan E. Adamchak.

“Our community will benefit from Danielle’s extensive experience and dynamic leadership. I’m excited to work with her.”

Dulin has more than 10 years of municipal leadership experience in the greater Kansas City area, including her current role as City Manager of Warrensburg, Missouri. Prior to her tenure with Warrensburg, she served as Assistant to the City Manager for the cities of Lenexa, Prairie Village, and Mission Hills. Dulin has an extensive background in capital project planning, economic development, community engagement, and negotiating complex agreements.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Kansas State University and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Kansas.

“I am honored to be selected as the next City Manager for Manhattan,” Dulin said. “I am excited to bring my passion for local government and commitment to improving the quality of life for all residents in Manhattan. I look forward to working with the City Commission, the City team, and our community partners to build on our success and secure our future. Additionally, we are thrilled to be moving back to the Sunflower State to be closer to our families.”

A&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=c3d3d08a70&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">formal contract of employment</a>&nbsp;will be considered by the City Commission&nbsp;during the&nbsp;August 6&nbsp;legislative meeting, which starts at&nbsp;6 p.m.&nbsp;in the City Commission Room at City Hall, 1101 Poyntz Ave.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722631617934.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Andrew LawsonCommunications Manager / PIO(MANHATTAN, Kan. – August 2, 2024)&nbsp;— The City of Manhattan is pleased to announce that the City Commission will vote on&nbsp;Tuesday, August 6&nbsp;to appoint Danielle Dulin to serve as Manhattan’s ninth City Manager, with an anticipated start date of&nbsp;Monday, October 14.Dulin was selected following a nationwide search conducted by Strategic Government Resources (SGR) that produced a field of 50 candidates and an extensive interview process involving four finalists who visited Manhattan.“The process went smoothly, and we were very pleased with SGR’s services. The high quality of our candidate pool speaks to Manhattan’s tremendous appeal,” said Mayor Susan E. Adamchak.“Our community will benefit from Danielle’s extensive experience and dynamic leadership. I’m excited to work with her.”Dulin has more than 10 years of municipal leadership experience in the greater Kansas City area, including her current role as City Manager of Warrensburg, Missouri. Prior to her tenure with Warrensburg, she served as Assistant to the City Manager for the cities of Lenexa, Prairie Village, and Mission Hills. Dulin has an extensive background in capital project planning, economic development, community engagement, and negotiating complex agreements.She earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Kansas State University and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Kansas.“I am honored to be selected as the next City Manager for Manhattan,” Dulin said. “I am excited to bring my passion for local government and commitment to improving the quality of life for all residents in Manhattan. I look forward to working with the City Commission, the City team, and our community partners to build on our success and secure our future. Additionally, we are thrilled to be moving back to the Sunflower State to be closer to our families.”A&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=c3d3d08a70&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">formal contract of employment</a>&nbsp;will be considered by the City Commission&nbsp;during the&nbsp;August 6&nbsp;legislative meeting, which starts at&nbsp;6 p.m.&nbsp;in the City Commission Room at City Hall, 1101 Poyntz Ave.

Vote scheduled August 6 on new City Manager for the City of Manhattan

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;ESOP Association CEO and president James Bonham.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/V-Uo7DbbVLA?si=FYzKCOzNeQz_JpHy" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;ESOP Association CEO and president James Bonham.

🎤Forward Ever: ESOP Association president James Bonham

By PAT MELGARESK-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;&nbsp;

MANHATTAN – Kansas farmers seem to be positioned for a bounce-back in net farm income as 2024 rolls along, according to a report from Kansas State University farm management economist Gregg Ibendahl.

And while, technically, that is good news, it is tempered by the fact that Kansas farmers are coming off one of the toughest years in about a decade. K-State reported earlier this year that 2023 net farm income in the state was, on average, $89,667 – about 56% below the year before.

But in his most recent analysis of 500 grain farms in the&nbsp;<a href="https://agmanager.info/kfma">Kansas Farm Management Association’s database</a>, Ibendahl says “I’m predicting a 23% to 30% increase in net farm income” in 2024 for Kansas farms.

“But that’s really from a very low base to start with, so overall, net farm income is going to be below what it has been for the previous 5-6 years.”

In pure numbers, Kansas farms may see 2024 net farm income hit an average $118,000, according to Ibendahl. In central and western Kansas, those numbers may top $156,000 and $149,000, respectively; net farm income in the east, however, may slow to $72,336 – the only region in the state that won’t see a rise compared to 2023.

Signs are mixed for 2025, he said. Average net farm income in the state may be just below his forecast for 2024, though slightly higher in the west and east and slightly lower in the central region.

“Remember that 2022 was a very good year in Kansas,” Ibendahl said. “Farmers were experiencing very good grain prices and everything looked pretty good. There was quite a bit of crop insurance that helped net farm income that year.”

“But in 2023, we had a case where grain prices dropped, which contributed to lower farm income and farm revenue. We also had a case where we had a big drop in inventory values for the stored grain that farmers had at the end of 2022, because of lower grain prices.”

Poor growing conditions in parts of Kansas also caused a dip in 2023’s grain revenue numbers, Ibendahl said. Crop insurance helped to pull many farmers from bigger losses, in many cases.

In 2024, Ibendahl said, “grain prices haven’t improved a whole lot; they’re still down from what they were a couple years ago. But we’re not going to see the big drop in inventory like we did in 2023, so that factor alone will help the revenue side.” He also doesn’t expect U.S. farmers to receive the level of government assistance that they have in recent years.

Longer term, ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and other parts of the world threaten oil prices, which in turn affects fertilizer prices. Ibendahl also keeps a watchful on inflation and interest rates, and knows that adverse weather will negatively affect production.

“Last year, we had 30% of our farms that had negative farm income,” Ibendahl said. “This year, that may jump to as much as 35% even though I’m looking at a slight increase in net farm income. What that means is that maybe more than one-third of our farms have the potential to have negative net farm income in 2024.”

“You can’t go too many years and have negative net farm income and expect to remain a farmer. So that’s something to look at going forward.”

By PAT MELGARESK-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;&nbsp;MANHATTAN – Kansas farmers seem to be positioned for a bounce-back in net farm income as 2024 rolls along, according to a report from Kansas State University farm management economist Gregg Ibendahl.And while, technically, that is good news, it is tempered by the fact that Kansas farmers are coming off one of the toughest years in about a decade. K-State reported earlier this year that 2023 net farm income in the state was, on average, $89,667 – about 56% below the year before.But in his most recent analysis of 500 grain farms in the&nbsp;<a href="https://agmanager.info/kfma">Kansas Farm Management Association’s database</a>, Ibendahl says “I’m predicting a 23% to 30% increase in net farm income” in 2024 for Kansas farms.“But that’s really from a very low base to start with, so overall, net farm income is going to be below what it has been for the previous 5-6 years.”In pure numbers, Kansas farms may see 2024 net farm income hit an average $118,000, according to Ibendahl. In central and western Kansas, those numbers may top $156,000 and $149,000, respectively; net farm income in the east, however, may slow to $72,336 – the only region in the state that won’t see a rise compared to 2023.Signs are mixed for 2025, he said. Average net farm income in the state may be just below his forecast for 2024, though slightly higher in the west and east and slightly lower in the central region.“Remember that 2022 was a very good year in Kansas,” Ibendahl said. “Farmers were experiencing very good grain prices and everything looked pretty good. There was quite a bit of crop insurance that helped net farm income that year.”“But in 2023, we had a case where grain prices dropped, which contributed to lower farm income and farm revenue. We also had a case where we had a big drop in inventory values for the stored grain that farmers had at the end of 2022, because of lower grain prices.”Poor growing conditions in parts of Kansas also caused a dip in 2023’s grain revenue numbers, Ibendahl said. Crop insurance helped to pull many farmers from bigger losses, in many cases.In 2024, Ibendahl said, “grain prices haven’t improved a whole lot; they’re still down from what they were a couple years ago. But we’re not going to see the big drop in inventory like we did in 2023, so that factor alone will help the revenue side.” He also doesn’t expect U.S. farmers to receive the level of government assistance that they have in recent years.Longer term, ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and other parts of the world threaten oil prices, which in turn affects fertilizer prices. Ibendahl also keeps a watchful on inflation and interest rates, and knows that adverse weather will negatively affect production.“Last year, we had 30% of our farms that had negative farm income,” Ibendahl said. “This year, that may jump to as much as 35% even though I’m looking at a slight increase in net farm income. What that means is that maybe more than one-third of our farms have the potential to have negative net farm income in 2024.”“You can’t go too many years and have negative net farm income and expect to remain a farmer. So that’s something to look at going forward.”

Kansas net farm income may be headed for bounce-back in 2024

There will be a community clean-up event on Grant Ave in Junction City on Saturday at the Grant Ave Boat Ramp and will have equipment provided by Junction City - KS Parks &amp; Recreation. The clean-up is being hosted by Junction City Main Street. It begins at 7:30 a.m.

Please bring gloves, weed eaters, flat head shovels, empty 5-gallon paint buckets, leaf blowers, brooms, and dust pans to help expose the sidewalks along Grant Ave. This is an opportunity for families to collect community service hours before school begins.

There will be a community clean-up event on Grant Ave in Junction City on Saturday at the Grant Ave Boat Ramp and will have equipment provided by Junction City - KS Parks &amp; Recreation. The clean-up is being hosted by Junction City Main Street. It begins at 7:30 a.m.Please bring gloves, weed eaters, flat head shovels, empty 5-gallon paint buckets, leaf blowers, brooms, and dust pans to help expose the sidewalks along Grant Ave. This is an opportunity for families to collect community service hours before school begins.

Grant Ave. clean-up is scheduled on Saturday

GEARY COUNTY —A Fort Riley man died in an accident just after 11a.m. Thursday in Geary County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 KTM RC390 motorcycle driven by&nbsp;Brycen Chance&nbsp;Ronk, 21, Fort Riley, was traveling onto eastbound Interstate 70 at Grandview Plaza. 

The motorcycle was traveling at a high rate of speed on the on ramp and passed a vehicle on the right shoulder of the ramp. 

The motorcycle swerved back into the eastbound lane of Interstate 70, continued to swerve and crossed through the center line entering the westbound lanes of the Interstate and struck a 2022 International semi driven by Brian Lynn Plyer, 51, Bellvue, Nebraska, head-on.

Ronk was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Frontier Medical. Plyer was not injured and properly restrained, according to the KHP.

The Geary County Sheriff's Department reported that eastbound traffic on I-70 opened up at 4 p.m. Precaution should still be used.

Traffic had been backed up in both directions due to the fatal accident on I-70.&nbsp;

Geary County Emergency Management has reported at mid-day that motorists should avoid the area of of I 70 at exit 299. Both east and west bound traffic is being rerouted through Grandview Plaza from 299 to 301 for the next 2 to 3 hours while the scene is worked due to a fatality accident.

Troopers and first responders are at the scene of a two-vehicle crash involving a semi and a motorcycle on I-70 in Geary County near Junction City. This area has ongoing construction. 

Please slow down and adjust your speed as they assist those involved. Expect traffic delays and possible reroutes.



<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722538918870.png" alt="Traffic backed up on Thursday due to the fatal accident-image KanDrive" />
 <figcaption>Traffic backed up on Thursday due to the fatal accident-image KanDrive</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY —A Fort Riley man died in an accident just after 11a.m. Thursday in Geary County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 KTM RC390 motorcycle driven by&nbsp;Brycen Chance&nbsp;Ronk, 21, Fort Riley, was traveling onto eastbound Interstate 70 at Grandview Plaza. The motorcycle was traveling at a high rate of speed on the on ramp and passed a vehicle on the right shoulder of the ramp. The motorcycle swerved back into the eastbound lane of Interstate 70, continued to swerve and crossed through the center line entering the westbound lanes of the Interstate and struck a 2022 International semi driven by Brian Lynn Plyer, 51, Bellvue, Nebraska, head-on.Ronk was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Frontier Medical. Plyer was not injured and properly restrained, according to the KHP.------------------------UPDATE:The Geary County Sheriff's Department reported that eastbound traffic on I-70 opened up at 4 p.m. Precaution should still be used.Traffic had been backed up in both directions due to the fatal accident on I-70.&nbsp;---Geary County Emergency Management has reported at mid-day that motorists should avoid the area of of I 70 at exit 299. Both east and west bound traffic is being rerouted through Grandview Plaza from 299 to 301 for the next 2 to 3 hours while the scene is worked due to a fatality accident.Troopers and first responders are at the scene of a two-vehicle crash involving a semi and a motorcycle on I-70 in Geary County near Junction City. This area has ongoing construction. Please slow down and adjust your speed as they assist those involved. Expect traffic delays and possible reroutes.

KHP: Fort Riley man dies after wrong-way, head-on crash

RCALF USA’s Bill Bullard will be headlining a “Working Together for Better Prices” state meeting of Kansas National Farmers on August 7 at the Smoky Valley Distillery in Marquette, Kansas.

Bullard will speak at a free noon luncheon. His topic will be “America's Unprecedented Cattle Crisis Persists”. The public is invited. RSVPs are encouraged. Call Greg Stephens at 785-819-6887, or Ray Kohman at 785-479-6023.

Bullard's talk will also be livestreamed at this link- https://www.youtube.com/live/om109ko1t4E or by going to Kansas NFO's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/kansasnfo/.

Also speaking will be USDA/NRCS Resource Conservationist Dean Krehbiel and National Farmers grain marketing representative Therese Seiler.

RCALF USA is located in Billings, Montana and is a cattle producer-only trade association dedicated to ensuring the continued profitability and viability of the U.S. cattle and sheep industries.

“We invited Bullard as our headline speaker because of the cattle industries importance to Kansas, the nation, and consumers,” said Solomon farmer and Kansas National Farmers president Ray Kohman.

Kansas has over 27,000 beef cattle ranches according to the Beef Council. It also ranks first in the number of cattle processed, second in fed cattle marketing and seventh in beef cows.

Other speakers will be Rinkes Cattle Company’s Justin Rinke, Holton, Kansas, and Kansas State Resource Conservationist Dean Krehbiel who will participate in a soil and livestock panel followed by Colwich, Kansas grain marketing representative Theresa Seiler who will give a grain marketing update.

Kansas National FarmersRCALF USA’s Bill Bullard will be headlining a “Working Together for Better Prices” state meeting of Kansas National Farmers on August 7 at the Smoky Valley Distillery in Marquette, Kansas.Bullard will speak at a free noon luncheon. His topic will be “America's Unprecedented Cattle Crisis Persists”. The public is invited. RSVPs are encouraged. Call Greg Stephens at 785-819-6887, or Ray Kohman at 785-479-6023.Bullard's talk will also be livestreamed at this link- https://www.youtube.com/live/om109ko1t4E or by going to Kansas NFO's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/kansasnfo/.Also speaking will be USDA/NRCS Resource Conservationist Dean Krehbiel and National Farmers grain marketing representative Therese Seiler.RCALF USA is located in Billings, Montana and is a cattle producer-only trade association dedicated to ensuring the continued profitability and viability of the U.S. cattle and sheep industries.“We invited Bullard as our headline speaker because of the cattle industries importance to Kansas, the nation, and consumers,” said Solomon farmer and Kansas National Farmers president Ray Kohman.Kansas has over 27,000 beef cattle ranches according to the Beef Council. It also ranks first in the number of cattle processed, second in fed cattle marketing and seventh in beef cows.Other speakers will be Rinkes Cattle Company’s Justin Rinke, Holton, Kansas, and Kansas State Resource Conservationist Dean Krehbiel who will participate in a soil and livestock panel followed by Colwich, Kansas grain marketing representative Theresa Seiler who will give a grain marketing update.

“Working Together for Better Prices” topic of Kansas National Farmers meeting

Manager, Public and Government Affairs AAA Kansas / AAA South Dakota

Trip allows fans to immerse themselves in the cultural, culinary and scenic richness of the Emerald Isle before cheering on the team.

MANHATTAN, Kan. With plenty of purple-clad Wildcats fans setting their sights on following the team for its 2025 season kickoff on August 23, 2025 in Dublin, AAA Travel and partner CIE Tours have created a 9-night itinerary exploring Irish tradition and scenery, including transportation to/from Aviva Stadium in Dublin where the Cats will fight to win their first football came of the season.

Highlights of the tour include Galway, Kilbeggan Distillery tour, visit to Ireland’s oldest pub in Athlone, Inishmore in the Aran Islands, prehistoric Dun Aengus fortress, Cliffs of Moher, Limerick, Killarney, the castle and “Stone of Eloquence” in Blarney, the Dingle Peninsula, and while in Dublin, a driving tour of the city, visit to the Guinness Storehouse, motorcoach transportation to the game, trip to the Irish Emigration Museum and tour of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

“So many people have a vacation to the stunning Emerald Isle on their travel bucket lists,” said Roni Deeds, AAA Travel advisor in the AAA Manhattan store. “This game for the Wildcats in Dublin provides a perfect, perhaps once-in-a-lifetime, opportunity for fans to combine two amazing experiences into one memorable tour.&nbsp;

AAA Travel and CIE Tours are hosting an informational presentation about the tour. The free seminar is open to the public, but attendees are asked to RSVP, as seats are limited. This will be&nbsp; Wednesday, August 7, 2024 from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. at the AAA Manhattan Travel/ Retail Store, 321 Southwind Road in Manhattan.

WHERE:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AAA Manhattan Travel/Retail Store

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 321 Southwind Road, Manhattan, KS 66503

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;   RSVP required (785) 323-4960 or

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The AAA/CIE tour package includes services of a AAA trip leader, deluxe motor coach transportation while in Ireland, 9 nights accommodations, 12 meals (9 breakfasts and 3 dinners), meet and greet service at the airport and all attractions and tours on the itinerary. Airfare is not included in the package but will be provided as an optional addition in late 2024 and will include airport transfers.&nbsp;Game tickets are not included&nbsp;but may be purchased through the university or game organizer.

Interested travelers with questions, needing additional information or requesting a copy of the travel itinerary for the tour should contact AAA Travel advisor Roni Deeds at (785) 323-4960 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rdeeds@aca.aaa.com">rdeeds@aca.aaa.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722552071333.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Shawn StewardManager, Public and Government Affairs AAA Kansas / AAA South DakotaAAA Club Alliance Inc.Trip allows fans to immerse themselves in the cultural, culinary and scenic richness of the Emerald Isle before cheering on the team.MANHATTAN, Kan. With plenty of purple-clad Wildcats fans setting their sights on following the team for its 2025 season kickoff on August 23, 2025 in Dublin, AAA Travel and partner CIE Tours have created a 9-night itinerary exploring Irish tradition and scenery, including transportation to/from Aviva Stadium in Dublin where the Cats will fight to win their first football came of the season.Highlights of the tour include Galway, Kilbeggan Distillery tour, visit to Ireland’s oldest pub in Athlone, Inishmore in the Aran Islands, prehistoric Dun Aengus fortress, Cliffs of Moher, Limerick, Killarney, the castle and “Stone of Eloquence” in Blarney, the Dingle Peninsula, and while in Dublin, a driving tour of the city, visit to the Guinness Storehouse, motorcoach transportation to the game, trip to the Irish Emigration Museum and tour of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.“So many people have a vacation to the stunning Emerald Isle on their travel bucket lists,” said Roni Deeds, AAA Travel advisor in the AAA Manhattan store. “This game for the Wildcats in Dublin provides a perfect, perhaps once-in-a-lifetime, opportunity for fans to combine two amazing experiences into one memorable tour.&nbsp;AAA Travel and CIE Tours are hosting an informational presentation about the tour. The free seminar is open to the public, but attendees are asked to RSVP, as seats are limited. This will be&nbsp; Wednesday, August 7, 2024 from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. at the AAA Manhattan Travel/ Retail Store, 321 Southwind Road in Manhattan.WHERE:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AAA Manhattan Travel/Retail Store&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 321 Southwind Road, Manhattan, KS 66503&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; RSVP required (785) 323-4960 or&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The AAA/CIE tour package includes services of a AAA trip leader, deluxe motor coach transportation while in Ireland, 9 nights accommodations, 12 meals (9 breakfasts and 3 dinners), meet and greet service at the airport and all attractions and tours on the itinerary. Airfare is not included in the package but will be provided as an optional addition in late 2024 and will include airport transfers.&nbsp;Game tickets are not included&nbsp;but may be purchased through the university or game organizer.Interested travelers with questions, needing additional information or requesting a copy of the travel itinerary for the tour should contact AAA Travel advisor Roni Deeds at (785) 323-4960 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rdeeds@aca.aaa.com">rdeeds@aca.aaa.com</a>.

Ireland travel tour leads up to Wildcats 2025 season kickoff in Dublin

Submitted for&nbsp;Insight Kansas&nbsp;by Michael A. Smith

“Are you better off than you were four years ago?”

It is no secret that President Biden is unpopular.&nbsp; In the 2023&nbsp;Kansas Speaks&nbsp;poll, a whopping 62.8% of respondents were dissatisfied with Biden’s performance, versus 32.9% who were dissatisfied with fellow Democrat, Governor Laura Kelly.&nbsp; Widespread approval of Biden’s withdrawal is one of the few issues these days that bring Democrats, Republicans and independents together.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The focus on Biden’s withdrawal centered on his age and his poor performance in the first Presidential debate–both legitimate concerns.&nbsp; Yet another issue lurks.&nbsp; By many measures, Biden’s presidency has been highly successful, characterized by a recovery from the COVID pandemic, a strong economy, falling violent crime rates, decreased poverty, and policies that have advanced the transition to domestically-produced clean energy and begun rebuilding the country’s decrepit infrastructure.&nbsp; One Biden policy even accomplished something no other President ever has–<a target="_blank" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/09/12/biden-child-tax-credit-poverty-doubled/">cutting the child poverty rate in half</a>, to an all-time low.&nbsp; Congress did not renew the program.

Despite this, many voters&nbsp;perceive&nbsp;the country as doing poorly.&nbsp; In the first debate, former President Trump suggested that the country is worse off today than in the last year of his Administration.&nbsp; The year 2020 was so infamous that one TV commercial portrayed it as being in love with the Devil himself.&nbsp; It was the beginning and second-deadliest year of the COVID pandemic, which ultimately killed over a million Americans and tanked the economy.&nbsp; The murder of George Floyd triggered protests over police brutality throughout the nation– most were peaceful, but some turned deadly.&nbsp; Finally, Trump’s term culminated with the events of January 6, 2021.&nbsp; Yet Trump has no trouble claiming that the country is worse off today–and many Americans seem to agree.&nbsp; Why?

Except for his own approval ratings, most numbers look very strong for Biden’s legacy.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/fbi-data-shows-that-violent-crimes-in-the-u-s-decreased-in-2023">Violent crime is decreasing</a>, and remains&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2022/10/31/violent-crime-is-a-key-midterm-voting-issue-but-what-does-the-data-say/#:~:text=In%202021%2C%20the%20most%20recent,the%20National%20Crime%20Victimization%20Survey.">far below the levels of the mid-1960s to mid-1990s</a>. Unemployment dropped dramatically after the pandemic, and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bls.gov/charts/employment-situation/civilian-unemployment-rate.htm">remains at low levels</a>.&nbsp; The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.officialdata.org/us/stocks/s-p-500/2020#:~:text=Stock%20market%20returns%20since%202020&amp;text=This%20is%20a%20return%20on,%2C%20or%209.34%25%20per%20year.">stock market&nbsp;</a>is doing well. After a spike in 2021-22 ,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.usinflationcalculator.com/inflation/current-inflation-rates/">inflation has been stabilized</a>.&nbsp; This requires high interest rates, but the Federal Reserve predicts&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.wsj.com/economy/central-banking/fed-near-interest-rate-cut-d303dbd5">these can start coming down&nbsp;</a>by the end of the year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Even issues important to&nbsp;Republicans&nbsp;look good for Biden.&nbsp; For example, recently, unauthorized crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border have&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.texastribune.org/2024/07/16/texas-border-migrant-apprehensions-decrease/">declined steeply</a>, and there haven’t been any violent antifa or Black Lives Matter protests in years.

Despite all the good news,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/03/08/politics/biden-polling-independents/index.html">independent voters</a>&nbsp;perceive the country to be in trouble under Biden. &nbsp; One possible culprit is our long break from high inflation between the early 1980s and 2021.&nbsp; Older Americans have forgotten–and younger Americans never knew–that controlling inflation means slowing down the&nbsp;increase&nbsp;in prices, not reversing costs to those of previous years.&nbsp; The latter would require nothing less than deliberately sending the country into economic decline.&nbsp; Price increases are under control, but costs are not going back to pre-2021 levels. The economic toll of doing so would be far too high.

The nation also continues to struggle with major social challenges, including homelessness, exorbitant housing costs, and fentanyl addiction, all of which we see and feel here in Kansas. They need ongoing, thoughtful attention from policymakers. Blaming them on immigrants is neither accurate nor helpful.

Whatever the causes of today’s public opinion, Biden’s legacy and Vice President Harris’ candidacy both depend in large part on how Americans perceive the current state of the nation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Are you better off than you were four years ago?

Back to 2020?Submitted for&nbsp;Insight Kansas&nbsp;by Michael A. SmithJuly 31, 2024“Are you better off than you were four years ago?”-Ronald ReaganIt is no secret that President Biden is unpopular.&nbsp; In the 2023&nbsp;Kansas Speaks&nbsp;poll, a whopping 62.8% of respondents were dissatisfied with Biden’s performance, versus 32.9% who were dissatisfied with fellow Democrat, Governor Laura Kelly.&nbsp; Widespread approval of Biden’s withdrawal is one of the few issues these days that bring Democrats, Republicans and independents together.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The focus on Biden’s withdrawal centered on his age and his poor performance in the first Presidential debate–both legitimate concerns.&nbsp; Yet another issue lurks.&nbsp; By many measures, Biden’s presidency has been highly successful, characterized by a recovery from the COVID pandemic, a strong economy, falling violent crime rates, decreased poverty, and policies that have advanced the transition to domestically-produced clean energy and begun rebuilding the country’s decrepit infrastructure.&nbsp; One Biden policy even accomplished something no other President ever has–<a target="_blank" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/09/12/biden-child-tax-credit-poverty-doubled/">cutting the child poverty rate in half</a>, to an all-time low.&nbsp; Congress did not renew the program.Despite this, many voters&nbsp;perceive&nbsp;the country as doing poorly.&nbsp; In the first debate, former President Trump suggested that the country is worse off today than in the last year of his Administration.&nbsp; The year 2020 was so infamous that one TV commercial portrayed it as being in love with the Devil himself.&nbsp; It was the beginning and second-deadliest year of the COVID pandemic, which ultimately killed over a million Americans and tanked the economy.&nbsp; The murder of George Floyd triggered protests over police brutality throughout the nation– most were peaceful, but some turned deadly.&nbsp; Finally, Trump’s term culminated with the events of January 6, 2021.&nbsp; Yet Trump has no trouble claiming that the country is worse off today–and many Americans seem to agree.&nbsp; Why?Except for his own approval ratings, most numbers look very strong for Biden’s legacy.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/fbi-data-shows-that-violent-crimes-in-the-u-s-decreased-in-2023">Violent crime is decreasing</a>, and remains&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2022/10/31/violent-crime-is-a-key-midterm-voting-issue-but-what-does-the-data-say/#:~:text=In%202021%2C%20the%20most%20recent,the%20National%20Crime%20Victimization%20Survey.">far below the levels of the mid-1960s to mid-1990s</a>. Unemployment dropped dramatically after the pandemic, and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bls.gov/charts/employment-situation/civilian-unemployment-rate.htm">remains at low levels</a>.&nbsp; The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.officialdata.org/us/stocks/s-p-500/2020#:~:text=Stock%20market%20returns%20since%202020&amp;text=This%20is%20a%20return%20on,%2C%20or%209.34%25%20per%20year.">stock market&nbsp;</a>is doing well. After a spike in 2021-22 ,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.usinflationcalculator.com/inflation/current-inflation-rates/">inflation has been stabilized</a>.&nbsp; This requires high interest rates, but the Federal Reserve predicts&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.wsj.com/economy/central-banking/fed-near-interest-rate-cut-d303dbd5">these can start coming down&nbsp;</a>by the end of the year.&nbsp;&nbsp;Even issues important to&nbsp;Republicans&nbsp;look good for Biden.&nbsp; For example, recently, unauthorized crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border have&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.texastribune.org/2024/07/16/texas-border-migrant-apprehensions-decrease/">declined steeply</a>, and there haven’t been any violent antifa or Black Lives Matter protests in years.Despite all the good news,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/03/08/politics/biden-polling-independents/index.html">independent voters</a>&nbsp;perceive the country to be in trouble under Biden. &nbsp; One possible culprit is our long break from high inflation between the early 1980s and 2021.&nbsp; Older Americans have forgotten–and younger Americans never knew–that controlling inflation means slowing down the&nbsp;increase&nbsp;in prices, not reversing costs to those of previous years.&nbsp; The latter would require nothing less than deliberately sending the country into economic decline.&nbsp; Price increases are under control, but costs are not going back to pre-2021 levels. The economic toll of doing so would be far too high.The nation also continues to struggle with major social challenges, including homelessness, exorbitant housing costs, and fentanyl addiction, all of which we see and feel here in Kansas. They need ongoing, thoughtful attention from policymakers. Blaming them on immigrants is neither accurate nor helpful.Whatever the causes of today’s public opinion, Biden’s legacy and Vice President Harris’ candidacy both depend in large part on how Americans perceive the current state of the nation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Are you better off than you were four years ago?

Insight Kansas

There is a familiar name serving in the Interim Junction City Manager's job.&nbsp; Gerry Vernon is employed in that capacity but is not a stranger to the community. He served as the Junction City Manager from 2009 until 2013.

In the interim capacity he has been subcontracted by GPS to handle the job.

During his earlier stint Vernon helped oversee the City's operations and begin recovery from a budget crisis that occurred before his arrival. Now the goal is to make things better for the next city manager and keep things running smooth.

He most recently served as Public Works Director in Winter Park, Colorado before his retirement there.

There is a familiar name serving in the Interim Junction City Manager's job.&nbsp; Gerry Vernon is employed in that capacity but is not a stranger to the community. He served as the Junction City Manager from 2009 until 2013.In the interim capacity he has been subcontracted by GPS to handle the job.During his earlier stint Vernon helped oversee the City's operations and begin recovery from a budget crisis that occurred before his arrival. Now the goal is to make things better for the next city manager and keep things running smooth.He most recently served as Public Works Director in Winter Park, Colorado before his retirement there.

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