The Geary County Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau reminds that Old Milford Road will be closed about a mile west of the U.S. 77/Old Milford Road intersection for bridge replacement. The road will be closed for about five months, starting on December 3, 2024, till about April 2025.

The Geary County Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau reminds that Old Milford Road will be closed about a mile west of the U.S. 77/Old Milford Road intersection for bridge replacement. The road will be closed for about five months, starting on December 3, 2024, till about April 2025.Watch for detour signs.

Old Milford Road closed by Rolling Meadows Golf Course

The Geary County Sheriff's Department said on Tuesday at 1016 a.m. Deputies were dispatched to the 10300 Block of Humboldt Creek Road for a single vehicle injury accident. Stephen Prince of Junction City, KS was traveling north on Humboldt Creek Road in his 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, when his vehicle left the roadway and came to a rest in the east ditch. 

Prince was examined by EMS on scene and released. The accident caused major front-end damage to the vehicle. The vehicle was removed from the scene by Gross Wrecker.

The Geary County Sheriff's Department said on Tuesday at 1016 a.m. Deputies were dispatched to the 10300 Block of Humboldt Creek Road for a single vehicle injury accident. Stephen Prince of Junction City, KS was traveling north on Humboldt Creek Road in his 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, when his vehicle left the roadway and came to a rest in the east ditch. Prince was examined by EMS on scene and released. The accident caused major front-end damage to the vehicle. The vehicle was removed from the scene by Gross Wrecker.

Deputies respond to accident

Kansas City—The holiday season is here with festive lights and decorations. As families get ready to decorate,&nbsp;Evergy reminds customers to be safe with both indoor and outdoor holiday lights.

For more safety tips this holiday season, visit evergy.com/holidaysafety.&nbsp;

Kansas City—The holiday season is here with festive lights and decorations. As families get ready to decorate,&nbsp;Evergy reminds customers to be safe with both indoor and outdoor holiday lights.<ul>
 <li>Inspect electrical decorations for damage:&nbsp;Discard decorations that are cracked or have damaged sockets or loose or bare wires.</li><li>Make sure holiday lights and decorations are properly rated for indoor or outdoor use:&nbsp;Only use indoor lights inside your home and outdoor lights outside. Not all lights are built to handle winter weather.</li><li>Don’t connect more than three strings of lights:&nbsp;This could blow a fuse and start a fire.</li><li>Look for certification labels: Decorations should have labels from independent testing laboratories such as&nbsp;Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or Intertek (ETL). If they don’t, they haven’t been tested for safety and could be a fire hazard.</li><li>Don’t overload outlets:&nbsp;Overloaded outlets are a common cause of fires. Only plug one power strip or one high-wattage appliance into each outlet at a time.</li><li>Water your real tree daily:&nbsp;Dry trees are a serious fire hazard.</li><li>Use battery-operated candles:&nbsp;Almost half of all decoration fires are started by candles. Unattended candles are the cause of one in five home candle fires.</li><li>Protect your electrical cords from damage:&nbsp;Don’t pinch them through doorways, windows or under furniture. Don’t place them under rugs or near heat sources.</li><li>When you go to sleep, so should your decorations:&nbsp;Turn off, unplug,&nbsp;and extinguish all decorations when they aren’t attended. &nbsp;Half of home fire deaths occur between the hours of 11 p.m. and 7 a.m.</li>
 </ul>For more safety tips this holiday season, visit evergy.com/holidaysafety.&nbsp;

Evergy offers holiday lights and decoration tips

Junction
City High School Boys and Girls Varsity basketball schedule


Dec. 6 (Friday) @ Atchison –
BOYS ONLY – 7:30


Dec. 13 (Friday) @ Hays –
Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30


Dec. 14 (Saturday) @ Dodge
City – Girls @ 1:00 – Boys @ 2:30

Dec. 17 (Tuesday) Home –
JCHS vs Lawrence Free State – GIRLS ONLY – 7:30

Dec. 18 (Wednesday) Home –
JCHS vs St. Mary’s Academy – BOYS ONLY – 7:30

Jan. 3 (Friday) Home -JCHS
vs Shawnee Mission North – Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30


Jan. 7 (Tuesday) @ Washburn
Rural – Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30

Jan. 9 (Thursday) Home
-JCHS vs Derby – Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30


Jan. 14 (Tuesday) @ Manhattan
– Girls @ 6:15 – Boys @ 7:30


Jan. 17 (Friday) @ Topeka High
– Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30

Jan. 21 (Tuesday) Home
-JCHS – vs Shawnee Mission West – GIRLS ONLY – 7:00


Jan. 23 (Thursday) BOYS - @
Dodge City Tournament of Champions – TBD


	  (Thursday) GIRLS - @ Salina
Invitational Basketball Tournament – TBD


Jan. 24 (Friday) BOYS - @
Dodge City Tournament of Champions – TBD


	  (Friday) GIRLS - @ Salina
Invitational Basketball Tournament – TBD


Jan. 25 (Saturday) BOYS - @
Dodge City Tournament of Champions – TBD


	  (Saturday) GIRLS - @ Salina
Invitational Basketball Tournament – TBD


Jan. 28 (Tuesday) – GIRLS @
Olathe East – 5:30


	   (Tuesday) – BOYS @ Blue
Valley Northwest 7:00

Feb. 7 (Friday) Home -JCHS
vs Topeka Hayden – Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30

Feb. 11 (Tuesday) Home
-JCHS vs Emporia High - Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30

Feb. 14 (Friday) Home –
JCHS vs Washburn Rural - Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30

Feb. 18 (Tuesday) Home –
JCHS vs Topeka High - Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30

Feb. 21 (Friday) Home –
JCHS vs Manhattan - Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30


Feb. 25 (Tuesday) - @ Topeka
Hayden - Girls @ 6:15 – Boys @ 7:45


Feb. 28 (Friday) - @ Emporia -
Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30

Junction
City High School Boys and Girls Varsity basketball schedule 

Dec. 6 (Friday) @ Atchison –
BOYS ONLY – 7:30
Dec. 13 (Friday) @ Hays –
Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30
Dec. 14 (Saturday) @ Dodge
City – Girls @ 1:00 – Boys @ 2:30
Dec. 17 (Tuesday) Home –
JCHS vs Lawrence Free State – GIRLS ONLY – 7:30
Dec. 18 (Wednesday) Home –
JCHS vs St. Mary’s Academy – BOYS ONLY – 7:30
CHRISTMAS BREAK
Jan. 3 (Friday) Home -JCHS
vs Shawnee Mission North – Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30 

Jan. 7 (Tuesday) @ Washburn
Rural – Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30
Jan. 9 (Thursday) Home
-JCHS vs Derby – Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30
Jan. 14 (Tuesday) @ Manhattan
– Girls @ 6:15 – Boys @ 7:30
Jan. 17 (Friday) @ Topeka High
– Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30
Jan. 21 (Tuesday) Home
-JCHS – vs Shawnee Mission West – GIRLS ONLY – 7:00
Jan. 23 (Thursday) BOYS - @
Dodge City Tournament of Champions – TBD
	 (Thursday) GIRLS - @ Salina
Invitational Basketball Tournament – TBD
Jan. 24 (Friday) BOYS - @
Dodge City Tournament of Champions – TBD
	 (Friday) GIRLS - @ Salina
Invitational Basketball Tournament – TBD
Jan. 25 (Saturday) BOYS - @
Dodge City Tournament of Champions – TBD
	 (Saturday) GIRLS - @ Salina
Invitational Basketball Tournament – TBD
Jan. 28 (Tuesday) – GIRLS @
Olathe East – 5:30
	 (Tuesday) – BOYS @ Blue
Valley Northwest 7:00
Feb. 7 (Friday) Home -JCHS
vs Topeka Hayden – Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30
Feb. 11 (Tuesday) Home
-JCHS vs Emporia High - Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30
Feb. 14 (Friday) Home –
JCHS vs Washburn Rural - Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30
Feb. 18 (Tuesday) Home –
JCHS vs Topeka High - Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30
Feb. 21 (Friday) Home –
JCHS vs Manhattan - Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30
Feb. 25 (Tuesday) - @ Topeka
Hayden - Girls @ 6:15 – Boys @ 7:45
Feb. 28 (Friday) - @ Emporia -
Girls @ 6:00 – Boys @ 7:30
SUB-SATE / STATE - TBD

JCHS Boys/Girls Varsity basketball schedules

Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) personnel assisted 893 motorists over the holiday reporting period

The reporting period for the holiday ran from 6 p.m. on Wednesday, November 27, through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, December 1, 2024.

The Kansas Highway Patrol worked one fatal non-DUI-related crash involving one non-DUI-related fatality over the holiday reporting period. The fatal crash occurred in Nemaha County. Preliminary crash log information can be found here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.gov/khp-crashlogs/search.do">https://www.kansas.gov/khp-crashlogs/search.do</a>.

Information in the table is compared to the data from both 2022 and 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1562779124931.png" alt="Kansas highway patrol" />
 <figcaption>Kansas highway patrol</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedKansas Highway Patrol (KHP) personnel assisted 893 motorists over the holiday reporting periodThe reporting period for the holiday ran from 6 p.m. on Wednesday, November 27, through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, December 1, 2024.The Kansas Highway Patrol worked one fatal non-DUI-related crash involving one non-DUI-related fatality over the holiday reporting period. The fatal crash occurred in Nemaha County. Preliminary crash log information can be found here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.gov/khp-crashlogs/search.do">https://www.kansas.gov/khp-crashlogs/search.do</a>.Information in the table is compared to the data from both 2022 and 2023.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733238060390.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733238075518.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

KHP Thanksgiving Holiday Activity Report

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

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

Chara Baca, Failure to appear, arrested 12/02

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/2024/12/1733237094236.jpeg" alt="Daysia Williams, Failure to appear, arrested 12/02" />
 <figcaption>Daysia Williams, Failure to appear, arrested 12/02</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Chara Baca, Failure to appear, arrested 12/02Recent 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 Dec. 3

The third annual Hometown Christmas will be a weekend holiday highlight in downtown Junction City. It will run from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Main Street Director Jordan McCann said there will be food and beverages along with live music and dance performances at the Municipal Building, across the street in the city parking lot horse and carriage rides will begin, a Cowboy Christmas market along with a fire pit and S'mores.

There will be photos with Santa Claus and live music at the Bartell House.

Also from 4-8 p.m. will be the annual&nbsp; Wine and Wassail Walk. The cost will be $32 per ticket.&nbsp; You can register online at junctioncitymainstreet.org. There will be wine and an Hors d'Oeuvre at&nbsp; more than 20 stops. You can check out new businesses and shop local for Christmas gifts.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThe third annual Hometown Christmas will be a weekend holiday highlight in downtown Junction City. It will run from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.Main Street Director Jordan McCann said there will be food and beverages along with live music and dance performances at the Municipal Building, across the street in the city parking lot horse and carriage rides will begin, a Cowboy Christmas market along with a fire pit and S'mores.There will be photos with Santa Claus and live music at the Bartell House.Also from 4-8 p.m. will be the annual&nbsp; Wine and Wassail Walk. The cost will be $32 per ticket.&nbsp; You can register online at junctioncitymainstreet.org. There will be wine and an Hors d'Oeuvre at&nbsp; more than 20 stops. You can check out new businesses and shop local for Christmas gifts.

Hometown Christmas is scheduled Saturday

The annual tree lighting ceremony at Fort Riley will be held Thursday evening at Ware Parade Field, 500 Huebner Road. It wi ll begin at 5:30 p.m.

The annual tree lighting ceremony at Fort Riley will be held Thursday evening at Ware Parade Field, 500 Huebner Road. It wi ll begin at 5:30 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733190741987.jpeg" alt="( Photo - Fort Riley )" />
 <figcaption>( Photo - Fort Riley )</figcaption>
 </figure>

Tree Lighting Ceremony set for Fort Riley

Year to date there have been 99 rural fire calls in Geary County, including two vehicle fires in recent days. The total of 99 compares with 120 at this time in 2023.

Also, Rural Fire Chief Garry Berges said that the annual appreciation for volunteers awards banquet will be Sunday night.

Year to date there have been 99 rural fire calls in Geary County, including two vehicle fires in recent days. The total of 99 compares with 120 at this time in 2023.Also, Rural Fire Chief Garry Berges said that the annual appreciation for volunteers awards banquet will be Sunday night.

Rural Fire numbers are down

Geary County Rural Fire Chief Garry Berges outlined plans Monday to apply for an airpack grant totaling $824,000. If the funds are received new airpacks could be obtained for the county's rural firefighters and those in Grandview Plaza and Milford.&nbsp;

The new airpacks would replace equipment that is 18-20 years old.

These grants are difficult to obtain so Berges noted that a New York grant writer will provide assistance. There is a five percent local match.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary County Rural Fire Chief Garry Berges outlined plans Monday to apply for an airpack grant totaling $824,000. If the funds are received new airpacks could be obtained for the county's rural firefighters and those in Grandview Plaza and Milford.&nbsp;The new airpacks would replace equipment that is 18-20 years old.These grants are difficult to obtain so Berges noted that a New York grant writer will provide assistance. There is a five percent local match.

Rural Fire Department prepares for a grant application

While the last week of November may not have reflected it, November was warmer than normal and much wetter than normal. While snow was seen on November 30, it arrived after the official recording time of 7:00 a.m. which means it will show up on the December precipitation totals.

The average daily high during November was 57.2, 2.9 degrees above normal. The average overnight low was 39.1, 6.6 degrees above normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 48.1, 4.7 degrees above normal. During November there were only six nights where the overnight low was at or below expected daily low temperatures. There were 21 days, however, when the average daily high was at or above the expected high for that date! The highest temperature in November was 68 on the 3rd. The lowest temperature in November was the morning low of 19 on the 30th. There was one temperature record set. The overnight low of 62 on the 4th broke the record high low temperature for that date. The old record high low temperature was 61 set in 2015. While the temperatures were well above average we were a few tenths of a degree out of the top 5. The hottest November was in 1999 with a monthly mean temperature of 51.8 degrees. The coldest November came in 1985 when we had a monthly mean temperature of 35.2.

A rainy pattern that arrived at the very end of October continued into the first three weeks of November and drenched the area with 4.12 inches of rainfall, well above the long-term average November precipitation of 1.42 inches. This made November 2024 the 6th wettest November on record, dating back to 1931. The wettest November was in 1931 when 5.88 inches deluged the area. The driest November is an honor held by three different years. The Novembers of 1954, 1966, and 1989 saw no precipitation land in the rain gauges! Year to date, January through November, we have received 33.18 inches, above the long-term average for those 11 months of 32.40 inches. As stated earlier, officially there was no snow recorded in November.

December brings us the start of meteorological winter on the 1st and astronomical winter on the 21st. It also brings us our shortest daylength of the year (on the 21st) and often some of our coldest temperatures. While January is the coldest month of the year December can be brutal at times as well. Daily high temperatures in December start the month at 46 and by New Year’s Eve day they have slid to 39. Overnight lows for the month range from 26 on the 1st down to 20 on the 31st. December is one of our driest months of the year (only January and February are drier) with average liquid precipitation of 1.17 inches. While a White Christmas is unlikely in any given year, long term average December snowfall is 3.7 inches.

By Chuck OtteGeary County Extension Agent, RetiredWhile the last week of November may not have reflected it, November was warmer than normal and much wetter than normal. While snow was seen on November 30, it arrived after the official recording time of 7:00 a.m. which means it will show up on the December precipitation totals.The average daily high during November was 57.2, 2.9 degrees above normal. The average overnight low was 39.1, 6.6 degrees above normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 48.1, 4.7 degrees above normal. During November there were only six nights where the overnight low was at or below expected daily low temperatures. There were 21 days, however, when the average daily high was at or above the expected high for that date! The highest temperature in November was 68 on the 3rd. The lowest temperature in November was the morning low of 19 on the 30th. There was one temperature record set. The overnight low of 62 on the 4th broke the record high low temperature for that date. The old record high low temperature was 61 set in 2015. While the temperatures were well above average we were a few tenths of a degree out of the top 5. The hottest November was in 1999 with a monthly mean temperature of 51.8 degrees. The coldest November came in 1985 when we had a monthly mean temperature of 35.2.A rainy pattern that arrived at the very end of October continued into the first three weeks of November and drenched the area with 4.12 inches of rainfall, well above the long-term average November precipitation of 1.42 inches. This made November 2024 the 6th wettest November on record, dating back to 1931. The wettest November was in 1931 when 5.88 inches deluged the area. The driest November is an honor held by three different years. The Novembers of 1954, 1966, and 1989 saw no precipitation land in the rain gauges! Year to date, January through November, we have received 33.18 inches, above the long-term average for those 11 months of 32.40 inches. As stated earlier, officially there was no snow recorded in November.December brings us the start of meteorological winter on the 1st and astronomical winter on the 21st. It also brings us our shortest daylength of the year (on the 21st) and often some of our coldest temperatures. While January is the coldest month of the year December can be brutal at times as well. Daily high temperatures in December start the month at 46 and by New Year’s Eve day they have slid to 39. Overnight lows for the month range from 26 on the 1st down to 20 on the 31st. December is one of our driest months of the year (only January and February are drier) with average liquid precipitation of 1.17 inches. While a White Christmas is unlikely in any given year, long term average December snowfall is 3.7 inches.

Junction City November Weather Summary

According to a post on the Riley County police Facebook page five puppies were found abandoned in a box in a&nbsp; Popeyes restaurant parking lot in Manhattan Sunday night.

The puppies will be held at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/prairiepawsmhk?__cft__[0]=AZWpHutdivkLT8v7gUjpc_WpCbrS6nFph-wNMd4AAzMHpqDziJb6nvZFE6gdJKIkR87Co4Ghro-UVBKa0VwhkkVink_-fhe_nsKkGuyFqpmkzfx82bGXAIvhPCUnTEUUv8aPurXciFNYOf9Cnpta8VW3Dv8229GzrjvFyltj_rjy4yMVYJqLL_hFNbOetf9j13vnpEVSAgAo2fOTFZJ_X8_uo-gUe_vhvwZD0HnX87GaMA&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">Prairie Paws Animal Shelter - Manhattan KS</a>&nbsp;for their mandatory 72-hour stray hold. After this period, they will go directly into a foster home and will not be available for adoption at this time. They are currently classified as strays, and an investigation is ongoing. If you have any questions about fostering or adopting please contact Prairie Paws.

&nbsp; With the temperatures dropping low Sunday night, the puppies may not have made it but someone found them and kept them safe until Monday morning. Authorities are seeking information that the public may have regarding the pups. 

According to a post on the Riley County police Facebook page five puppies were found abandoned in a box in a&nbsp; Popeyes restaurant parking lot in Manhattan Sunday night.The puppies will be held at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/prairiepawsmhk?__cft__[0]=AZWpHutdivkLT8v7gUjpc_WpCbrS6nFph-wNMd4AAzMHpqDziJb6nvZFE6gdJKIkR87Co4Ghro-UVBKa0VwhkkVink_-fhe_nsKkGuyFqpmkzfx82bGXAIvhPCUnTEUUv8aPurXciFNYOf9Cnpta8VW3Dv8229GzrjvFyltj_rjy4yMVYJqLL_hFNbOetf9j13vnpEVSAgAo2fOTFZJ_X8_uo-gUe_vhvwZD0HnX87GaMA&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">Prairie Paws Animal Shelter - Manhattan KS</a>&nbsp;for their mandatory 72-hour stray hold. After this period, they will go directly into a foster home and will not be available for adoption at this time. They are currently classified as strays, and an investigation is ongoing. If you have any questions about fostering or adopting please contact Prairie Paws.&nbsp; With the temperatures dropping low Sunday night, the puppies may not have made it but someone found them and kept them safe until Monday morning. Authorities are seeking information that the public may have regarding the pups.

Abandoned puppies are found

The Junction City Animal Shelter is back open for normal business hours.&nbsp; The animal shelter posted on social media that the suspicion of kennel cough was a false alarm.&nbsp;

The Junction City Animal Shelter announced this past Monday that the facility will be closed for a minimum of 1 week to monitor symptoms that COULD resemble Kennel Cough. Out of IMMENSE PRECAUTION, they are halting all adoptions or showings until they can verify if this is Kennel Cough or not. 

Once clear, they will send an update out. Given the nature of the shelter and how many dogs housed, this is a very common illness shelters can see. 

Dog owners in our area need to be vigilant and understand that public places can allow for this to spread.&nbsp;&nbsp;

UPDATE:&nbsp;The Junction City Animal Shelter is back open for normal business hours.&nbsp; The animal shelter posted on social media that the suspicion of kennel cough was a false alarm.&nbsp;--The Junction City Animal Shelter announced this past Monday that the facility will be closed for a minimum of 1 week to monitor symptoms that COULD resemble Kennel Cough. Out of IMMENSE PRECAUTION, they are halting all adoptions or showings until they can verify if this is Kennel Cough or not. Once clear, they will send an update out. Given the nature of the shelter and how many dogs housed, this is a very common illness shelters can see. Dog owners in our area need to be vigilant and understand that public places can allow for this to spread.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Animal Shelter is back open for normal business hours

Evan Booker, Domestic battery, Unlawful restraint, arrested 11/26

Antonique Lazenberry, Failure to appear, arrested 11/26

Nicholas Hawes, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, arrested 11/26

Nathan Hawes,&nbsp;Possession of drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, arrested 11/26

Tyshaun Gandy, Failure to appear, arrested 11/27

Patricia Purcell, Violate protection order, Condition of pre-trial orders, arrested 11/27

Elizabeth Liepply, Failure to appear, arrested 11/27

Sara Carter, Endangering a child, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 11/27

Billy Jay Fango, Urinating or defecating in public, Disorderly conduct, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, DUI - Liquor/Drugs, Criminal trespass, Interference with LEO, arrested 11/28

Colby Anderson, DUI-Liquor or Drugs, arrested 11/28

John White, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 11/28

Garrick Schultz, Domestic battery, arrested 11/30

Matthew Burkley,&nbsp;Domestic battery, arrested 11/30

Damon Smith Jr., Domestic battery, Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship, Battery on LEO, Physical contact with county or city officer on duty, arrested 11/30

Ricardo Caquias Acosta, DUI - Liquor/Drugs, arrested 11/30

Cameron Muller, Domestic battery, arrested 11/30

Johnathon Gorsuch, Transporting an open container, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 11/30

Sonja Singson,&nbsp;Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 12/01

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/2024/12/1733170970669.jpeg" alt="Ginger Moore, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 11/26" />
 <figcaption>Ginger Moore, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 11/26</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733171066778.jpeg" alt="Peter Henry, Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 11/26" />
 <figcaption>Peter Henry, Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 11/26</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733171167679.jpeg" alt="Edward Wright, Failure to appear, arrested 11/27" />
 <figcaption>Edward Wright, Failure to appear, arrested 11/27</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733171199793.jpeg" alt="Marco Torres Jr., Failure to appear, arrested 11/29" />
 <figcaption>Marco Torres Jr., Failure to appear, arrested 11/29</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733171232811.jpeg" alt="Richard Branch Jr., Failure to appear, arrested 11/30" />
 <figcaption>Richard Branch Jr., Failure to appear, arrested 11/30</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733171284086.jpeg" alt="Zackary Sears, Arrest by LEO, Warrant arrest, Taxation, Drugs - No drug tax stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture controlled substance, Distribute certain hallucinogenic, Dose &gt; 1,000 units, Duty of governor to arrest person charged who has fled from justice, arrested 12/01" />
 <figcaption>Zackary Sears, Arrest by LEO, Warrant arrest, Taxation, Drugs - No drug tax stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture controlled substance, Distribute certain hallucinogenic, Dose &gt; 1,000 units, Duty of governor to arrest person charged who has fled from justice, arrested 12/01</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Evan Booker, Domestic battery, Unlawful restraint, arrested 11/26Antonique Lazenberry, Failure to appear, arrested 11/26Nicholas Hawes, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, arrested 11/26Nathan Hawes,&nbsp;Possession of drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, arrested 11/26Tyshaun Gandy, Failure to appear, arrested 11/27Patricia Purcell, Violate protection order, Condition of pre-trial orders, arrested 11/27Elizabeth Liepply, Failure to appear, arrested 11/27Sara Carter, Endangering a child, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 11/27Billy Jay Fango, Urinating or defecating in public, Disorderly conduct, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, DUI - Liquor/Drugs, Criminal trespass, Interference with LEO, arrested 11/28Colby Anderson, DUI-Liquor or Drugs, arrested 11/28John White, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 11/28Garrick Schultz, Domestic battery, arrested 11/30Matthew Burkley,&nbsp;Domestic battery, arrested 11/30Damon Smith Jr., Domestic battery, Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship, Battery on LEO, Physical contact with county or city officer on duty, arrested 11/30Ricardo Caquias Acosta, DUI - Liquor/Drugs, arrested 11/30Cameron Muller, Domestic battery, arrested 11/30Johnathon Gorsuch, Transporting an open container, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 11/30Sonja Singson,&nbsp;Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 12/01Recent 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 Nov. 27-Dec. 2

After a productive ten years, Joe and Sheila Markley have announced their retirement as co-directors of the Junction City Opera House, effective January 31, 2025.

The Opera House Board diligently searched for a new director and is delighted to announce that a new Director has been selected. Mary Ellen (Ellie) Dillon, a longtime resident of Junction City, will bring immense expertise in all functions of theater work and her experience working with the public sector in her current position with the USD475 school district.

Ms. Dillon will assume leadership of the Opera House on February 1, 2025.

<figure>
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 </figure>Opera House release -After a productive ten years, Joe and Sheila Markley have announced their retirement as co-directors of the Junction City Opera House, effective January 31, 2025.The Opera House Board diligently searched for a new director and is delighted to announce that a new Director has been selected. Mary Ellen (Ellie) Dillon, a longtime resident of Junction City, will bring immense expertise in all functions of theater work and her experience working with the public sector in her current position with the USD475 school district.Ms. Dillon will assume leadership of the Opera House on February 1, 2025.

Ellie Dillon to be new Opera House Director

On Saturday at 0844 Geary County Sheriff's Deputies responded to I-70 eastbound at mile marker 313 in reference to a two vehicle non-injury accident. Elizabeth F. Harris of Junction City, KS, was entering I-70 at mile marker 313 in her black in color 2020 GMC Terrain when she lost control due to icy road conditions and struck a white in color 2018 Kenworth being operated by Richard Rios of San Antonio, TX. No injuries were reported. Both vehicles were removed by the drivers.

Deputies responded to I-70 eastbound at mile marker 313 for a two vehicle non-injury accident. Susan Layne of Alta Vista, KS was entering I-70 at mile marker 313 eastbound in her silver in color 2010 Toyota Yaris when she slid into traffic and was struck by a 2017 Maroon in color Ram 3500 driven by Cobi Rawald of Ft. Riley, KS. No injuries were reported. The Ram was removed by the driver. The Yaris was removed by a private tow company.

On Saturday at 0852 a.m. Deputies responded to I-70 eastbound at mile marker 313 in reference to a single vehicle non-injury accident. Samuel Stuckey of Kansas City, MO was traveling eastbound on I-70 in his blue in color 2015 Mazda 3 when he lost control due to icy road conditions and crossed the median and came to rest in the westbound lanes. No injuries were reported. The vehicle was removed by a private tow company.

On Saturday at 9:27 a.m. Deputies responded to I-70 eastbound at mile marker 308 in reference to a single vehicle non-injury accident. Donald Mansker of Junction City, KS was traveling eastbound in his black in color 2011 Ford F-250 when he lost control due to icy road conditions and ran off the road to the south and struck an embankment. No injuries were reported. The vehicle was removed by Gross Wrecker Service.

On 11302024 at 0856 hours-Deputies responded to I-70 at mile marker 313 westbound in reference to a single vehicle non-injury accident. Kathleen Tanona of Manhattan, KS was traveling westbound in her blue in color 2020 Toyota Sienna attempted to conduct a U-turn on I-70 and was struck by a black in color 2023 Kia Forte being driven by Nathan Kobie of Pleasant Hill, MO. No injuries were reported. Both vehicles were removed by the drivers.

On 11302024 at 1837 hours-Deputies responded to US 77-Highway at mile marker 150 in reference to a single vehicle non-injury accident. Gabriel Robertson of Junction City, KS was traveling northbound in his white in color 2018 Ford Focus when a deer was struck. No injuries were reported. The vehicle was removed by Renegade Wrecker Service.

On 12012024 at 1309 hours-Deputies responded to I-70 at mile marker 309 in reference to a three vehicle non-injury accident. Lonnie Wise of Russell, KS was traveling eastbound in his tan in color 2012 GMC Acadia when he conducted an unsafe lane change striking a 2024 Honda Ridgeline being driven by Ruth Backenroth of Kingstone NY, causing Ruth to loose control and cross the center median and was struck by a white in color 2023 Ford Escape being driven by Samuel Morgan of Salina, KS. The Ford Escape was removed from the scene by the driver. The Nissan was removed from the scene by Bud’s Wrecker Service. The GMC Acadia was towed from the scene by Gross Wrecker Service. No injuries were reported.

On Saturday at 0844 Geary County Sheriff's Deputies responded to I-70 eastbound at mile marker 313 in reference to a two vehicle non-injury accident. Elizabeth F. Harris of Junction City, KS, was entering I-70 at mile marker 313 in her black in color 2020 GMC Terrain when she lost control due to icy road conditions and struck a white in color 2018 Kenworth being operated by Richard Rios of San Antonio, TX. No injuries were reported. Both vehicles were removed by the drivers.Deputies responded to I-70 eastbound at mile marker 313 for a two vehicle non-injury accident. Susan Layne of Alta Vista, KS was entering I-70 at mile marker 313 eastbound in her silver in color 2010 Toyota Yaris when she slid into traffic and was struck by a 2017 Maroon in color Ram 3500 driven by Cobi Rawald of Ft. Riley, KS. No injuries were reported. The Ram was removed by the driver. The Yaris was removed by a private tow company.On Saturday at 0852 a.m. Deputies responded to I-70 eastbound at mile marker 313 in reference to a single vehicle non-injury accident. Samuel Stuckey of Kansas City, MO was traveling eastbound on I-70 in his blue in color 2015 Mazda 3 when he lost control due to icy road conditions and crossed the median and came to rest in the westbound lanes. No injuries were reported. The vehicle was removed by a private tow company.On Saturday at 9:27 a.m. Deputies responded to I-70 eastbound at mile marker 308 in reference to a single vehicle non-injury accident. Donald Mansker of Junction City, KS was traveling eastbound in his black in color 2011 Ford F-250 when he lost control due to icy road conditions and ran off the road to the south and struck an embankment. No injuries were reported. The vehicle was removed by Gross Wrecker Service.On 11302024 at 0856 hours-Deputies responded to I-70 at mile marker 313 westbound in reference to a single vehicle non-injury accident. Kathleen Tanona of Manhattan, KS was traveling westbound in her blue in color 2020 Toyota Sienna attempted to conduct a U-turn on I-70 and was struck by a black in color 2023 Kia Forte being driven by Nathan Kobie of Pleasant Hill, MO. No injuries were reported. Both vehicles were removed by the drivers.On 11302024 at 1837 hours-Deputies responded to US 77-Highway at mile marker 150 in reference to a single vehicle non-injury accident. Gabriel Robertson of Junction City, KS was traveling northbound in his white in color 2018 Ford Focus when a deer was struck. No injuries were reported. The vehicle was removed by Renegade Wrecker Service.On 12012024 at 1309 hours-Deputies responded to I-70 at mile marker 309 in reference to a three vehicle non-injury accident. Lonnie Wise of Russell, KS was traveling eastbound in his tan in color 2012 GMC Acadia when he conducted an unsafe lane change striking a 2024 Honda Ridgeline being driven by Ruth Backenroth of Kingstone NY, causing Ruth to loose control and cross the center median and was struck by a white in color 2023 Ford Escape being driven by Samuel Morgan of Salina, KS. The Ford Escape was removed from the scene by the driver. The Nissan was removed from the scene by Bud’s Wrecker Service. The GMC Acadia was towed from the scene by Gross Wrecker Service. No injuries were reported.

Icy roads lead to weekend accidents

On Monday from 8:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. contractors will be doing water valve connections at 4th &amp; Webster.&nbsp; Junction City Public Works said customers can expect no water on 4th Street from Webster to Garfield, and 4th Street from Webster to Jackson Street. Plus All residents on Sunset Dr. and Webster &amp; 5th to Webster &amp; 3rd will be effected.

On Monday from 8:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. contractors will be doing water valve connections at 4th &amp; Webster.&nbsp; Junction City Public Works said customers can expect no water on 4th Street from Webster to Garfield, and 4th Street from Webster to Jackson Street. Plus All residents on Sunset Dr. and Webster &amp; 5th to Webster &amp; 3rd will be effected.

Water valve connections work scheduled Monday

RILEY COUNTY—Three people were injured in separate weekend accidents in Riley County.

Just before 11a.m. Saturday, a 2013 Toyota Tacoma&nbsp;&nbsp;driven by John Mayes, 21, collided head-on with a 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Marco Galeano-Casco, 47,&nbsp;at the corner of Leavenworth Street and N. Juliette Avenue, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

EMS transported Galeano-Casco to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. He was cited for driving without a driver's license and no proof of insurance.&nbsp;

Just before 1:30p.m. Saturday, a 1997 Ford F-150 driven by William McNee, 66, of Junction City, struck a 2014 Honda Odyssey driven by Charles Stutler, 30, of San Antonio, Texas, at the intersection of Richards Drive and Fort Riley Blvd, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

EMS transported the front seat passengers from both vehicles to Via Christi via EMS for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The RCPD released no additional details.

RILEY COUNTY—Three people were injured in separate weekend accidents in Riley County.Just before 11a.m. Saturday, a 2013 Toyota Tacoma&nbsp;&nbsp;driven by John Mayes, 21, collided head-on with a 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Marco Galeano-Casco, 47,&nbsp;at the corner of Leavenworth Street and N. Juliette Avenue, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.EMS transported Galeano-Casco to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. He was cited for driving without a driver's license and no proof of insurance.&nbsp;Just before 1:30p.m. Saturday, a 1997 Ford F-150 driven by William McNee, 66, of Junction City, struck a 2014 Honda Odyssey driven by Charles Stutler, 30, of San Antonio, Texas, at the intersection of Richards Drive and Fort Riley Blvd, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.EMS transported the front seat passengers from both vehicles to Via Christi via EMS for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The RCPD released no additional details.

3 hospitalized in separate weekend accidents in Riley Co.

MANHATTAN, KAN.&nbsp;– The Riley County Police Department is actively investigating two overnight shootings reported in Manhattan.

Just before 8p.m. Saturday, police responded to a report of shots fired in the 2000 block of College Heights, according to a media release from the RCPD. Officers located a 23-year-old female with a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to Ascension Via Christi Hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Just before 6a.m. Sunday, officers responded to another report of shots fired in the 1800 block of Claflin Road. Upon arrival, three individuals were found with gunshot wounds. EMS transported all three to Ascension Via Christi for treatment.

Officers have been on the scene throughout the day, collecting and processing evidence. Preliminary findings suggest the two incidents are related. However, there is no ongoing threat to the public at this time.

RCPD is pursuing all leads and urges anyone with information about either incident to contact the department. Tips can be submitted by calling the RCPD non-emergency line at 785-537-2112 or through Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777. Crime Stoppers allows for anonymity and may qualify tipsters for a cash reward.

These investigations remain active, and we appreciate the public’s patience as officers work diligently to gather evidence and follow up on leads.&nbsp;

Riley County police responded to multiple shooting reports Saturday night and early Sunday morning in Manhattan.

Officers advised the public to avoid the 2000 block of Hunting Ave and College Heights &amp; Goodnow as officers processed the scenes. Earlier they also responded to a case in the 1800 block of Claflin Ave.

More information will be released when available.

MANHATTAN, KAN.&nbsp;– The Riley County Police Department is actively investigating two overnight shootings reported in Manhattan.Just before 8p.m. Saturday, police responded to a report of shots fired in the 2000 block of College Heights, according to a media release from the RCPD. Officers located a 23-year-old female with a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to Ascension Via Christi Hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries.Just before 6a.m. Sunday, officers responded to another report of shots fired in the 1800 block of Claflin Road. Upon arrival, three individuals were found with gunshot wounds. EMS transported all three to Ascension Via Christi for treatment.Officers have been on the scene throughout the day, collecting and processing evidence. Preliminary findings suggest the two incidents are related. However, there is no ongoing threat to the public at this time.RCPD is pursuing all leads and urges anyone with information about either incident to contact the department. Tips can be submitted by calling the RCPD non-emergency line at 785-537-2112 or through Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777. Crime Stoppers allows for anonymity and may qualify tipsters for a cash reward.These investigations remain active, and we appreciate the public’s patience as officers work diligently to gather evidence and follow up on leads.&nbsp;--------------Riley County police responded to multiple shooting reports Saturday night and early Sunday morning in Manhattan.Officers advised the public to avoid the 2000 block of Hunting Ave and College Heights &amp; Goodnow as officers processed the scenes. Earlier they also responded to a case in the 1800 block of Claflin Ave.More information will be released when available.

RCPD:  4 hospitalized after 2 separate shootings in Manhattan

Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks

TOPEKA, Kan. — Kansas-based chapters of nonprofit organizations focused on wildlife conservation and promoting the hunting and fishing heritage have a special fundraising opportunity thanks to the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission. Through the Commission Big Game Permit program, eligible organizations can enter a random drawing for one of seven special big game hunting permits, which may then be sold to fund conservation projects. The drawing will take place at the Commission's meeting on January 30, 2025. Applicants do not need to be present to win.

Applications are due by Jan. 17, 2025. To submit an application:

Each year, the program offers up to seven Commission Big Game permits (no more than one elk and one antelope and up to seven deer permits), depending on applicants’ preferences. Deer permits are either-species/either-sex and are valid statewide during any season with the legal equipment for that season; and, they do not count against other big game permits the license holder may obtain.

Winning organizations keep 15 percent of their sale price of the Commission Big Game Permit to support their missions. The remaining 85 percent is held by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks until a mutually agreed upon conservation project is approved. (If Kansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry is drawn, they may keep 85 percent of their sale price in order to offset donated deer processing fees.) Organizations may not win a Commission Big Game Permit more than once in a three-year period.

For more information, contact Jake George, KDWP Wildlife Division Director, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jake.george@ks.gov" target="_blank">jake.george@ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732892487374.jpeg" alt="Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of Wildlife and ParksTOPEKA, Kan. — Kansas-based chapters of nonprofit organizations focused on wildlife conservation and promoting the hunting and fishing heritage have a special fundraising opportunity thanks to the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission. Through the Commission Big Game Permit program, eligible organizations can enter a random drawing for one of seven special big game hunting permits, which may then be sold to fund conservation projects. The drawing will take place at the Commission's meeting on January 30, 2025. Applicants do not need to be present to win.Applications are due by Jan. 17, 2025. To submit an application:<ol>
 <li>Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.com%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release/1/010101936f1300f3-281ed9d4-e342-4d0f-9b90-0a2894f03d46-000000/oZq5uUF60NqG8rlMe50ShEjVSLEq_kkx2JV4mgVjBjQ=381" target="_blank">ksoutdoors.com/KDWP-Info/Commission</a></li><li>Click “Commissioner Permits” toward the bottom of the page</li><li>Download the file titled, “2025 Commissioner Permit Application fillable.”</li><li>Return the completed application by mail or email at the addresses listed on the application</li>
 </ol>Each year, the program offers up to seven Commission Big Game permits (no more than one elk and one antelope and up to seven deer permits), depending on applicants’ preferences. Deer permits are either-species/either-sex and are valid statewide during any season with the legal equipment for that season; and, they do not count against other big game permits the license holder may obtain.Winning organizations keep 15 percent of their sale price of the Commission Big Game Permit to support their missions. The remaining 85 percent is held by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks until a mutually agreed upon conservation project is approved. (If Kansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry is drawn, they may keep 85 percent of their sale price in order to offset donated deer processing fees.) Organizations may not win a Commission Big Game Permit more than once in a three-year period.For more information, contact Jake George, KDWP Wildlife Division Director, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jake.george@ks.gov" target="_blank">jake.george@ks.gov</a>.

Big Game Permits application period open

MANHATTAN — In 2025, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/gardens/">Kansas State University Gardens</a>, will celebrate a milestone: 150 years. According to KSU the university will commemorate the anniversary with a yearlong celebration honoring the legacy of horticultural excellence. There will be opportunities to celebrate the gardens throughout 2025 with a variety of events across campus and the Manhattan community.

"Celebrating 150 years is a testament to the K-State Gardens' inspiring effect on those who visit," said Scott McElwain, director of the gardens. "The anniversary gives us an opportunity to reflect, to look forward to our promising future and to thank those who have helped nurture the gardens throughout the years. We can't wait to celebrate with the K-State family next year.

"The festivities will begin with the 150th Anniversary Kickoff Celebration at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, in the K-State Alumni Center. There will be a luncheon and journey through the past of the Gardens with&nbsp; Chuck Marr, emeritus professor of horticulture at K-State. Then dive deeper into the world of ornamental horticulture with a talk by renowned horticulturist Karl Gercens III from Longwood Gardens in Kennet Square, Pennsylvania.

MANHATTAN — In 2025, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/gardens/">Kansas State University Gardens</a>, will celebrate a milestone: 150 years. According to KSU the university will commemorate the anniversary with a yearlong celebration honoring the legacy of horticultural excellence. There will be opportunities to celebrate the gardens throughout 2025 with a variety of events across campus and the Manhattan community."Celebrating 150 years is a testament to the K-State Gardens' inspiring effect on those who visit," said Scott McElwain, director of the gardens. "The anniversary gives us an opportunity to reflect, to look forward to our promising future and to thank those who have helped nurture the gardens throughout the years. We can't wait to celebrate with the K-State family next year."The festivities will begin with the 150th Anniversary Kickoff Celebration at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, in the K-State Alumni Center. There will be a luncheon and journey through the past of the Gardens with&nbsp; Chuck Marr, emeritus professor of horticulture at K-State. Then dive deeper into the world of ornamental horticulture with a talk by renowned horticulturist Karl Gercens III from Longwood Gardens in Kennet Square, Pennsylvania.

K-State Gardens will celebrate 150 years

"Watch Out for Deer-Stay Alert, Stay Safe!

Geary County Emergency Management urges motorists to stay vigilant during their travels this holiday season. November is peak season for deer activity.

Passengers - help your driver by navigating ahead to spot any movement on the sides of the road. Deer are most active at dawn and dusk, often traveling in groups. If you see one, chances are more are nearby.

Tips to Stay Safe:• Slow Down: Reduce your speed, especially in areas marked with deer crossing signs.• Stay Alert: Scan the road and shoulders for movement. Use high beams at night when safe to do so.• Don’t Swerve: If a collision is unavoidable, brake firmly and stay in your lane. Swerving can lead to more serious accidents.• Buckle Up: Always wear your seatbelt to minimize injuries in the event of a collision&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Watch Out for Deer-Stay Alert, Stay Safe!Geary County Emergency Management urges motorists to stay vigilant during their travels this holiday season. November is peak season for deer activity.Passengers - help your driver by navigating ahead to spot any movement on the sides of the road. Deer are most active at dawn and dusk, often traveling in groups. If you see one, chances are more are nearby.Tips to Stay Safe:• Slow Down: Reduce your speed, especially in areas marked with deer crossing signs.• Stay Alert: Scan the road and shoulders for movement. Use high beams at night when safe to do so.• Don’t Swerve: If a collision is unavoidable, brake firmly and stay in your lane. Swerving can lead to more serious accidents.• Buckle Up: Always wear your seatbelt to minimize injuries in the event of a collision&nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch Out for Deer-Stay Alert, Stay Safe.

On Friday night Geary County Sheriff's Deputies responded to I-70 mile marker 293 for a vehicle fire. Lorna Sagustume of Independence, Missouri was traveling eastbound in a 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe when debris was struck in the roadway causing the vehicle to catch fire. 

All occupants were able to safely exit the vehicle without injuries. The vehicle was destroyed and removed by Renegade Wrecker Service

On Friday night Geary County Sheriff's Deputies responded to I-70 mile marker 293 for a vehicle fire. Lorna Sagustume of Independence, Missouri was traveling eastbound in a 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe when debris was struck in the roadway causing the vehicle to catch fire. All occupants were able to safely exit the vehicle without injuries. The vehicle was destroyed and removed by Renegade Wrecker Service

Authorities respond to vehicle fire

Floats, motorcycles, JCHS Marching Band, the Grinch and Santa Claus were all part of the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade Friday night. 

A new parade route ran from the Konza Prairie Community Health Center parking lot to Grant Ave. and then down Washington Street to Heritage Park which was lit up by Christmas decorations.

Parade winners included the Mayor's Award which went to the Geary County Sheriff's Office Community Engagement Team, Chamber Award to the Highwind Brewing Company, Founders Award to the Junction City Middle School Chess Club, Youth Award to Next Step Dance Studios and the Geary County Commission Award which went to the First United Methodist Church.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostFloats, motorcycles, JCHS Marching Band, the Grinch and Santa Claus were all part of the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade Friday night. <figure>
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732934189349.jpeg" alt=" " />
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 </figure>A new parade route ran from the Konza Prairie Community Health Center parking lot to Grant Ave. and then down Washington Street to Heritage Park which was lit up by Christmas decorations.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732934269022.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Rick Dykstra (CVB)" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Rick Dykstra (CVB)</figcaption>
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 </figure>Parade winners included the Mayor's Award which went to the Geary County Sheriff's Office Community Engagement Team, Chamber Award to the Highwind Brewing Company, Founders Award to the Junction City Middle School Chess Club, Youth Award to Next Step Dance Studios and the Geary County Commission Award which went to the First United Methodist Church.<figure>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732934467246.jpeg" alt="Geary County Commissioner Keith Ascher attended the parade" />
 <figcaption>Geary County Commissioner Keith Ascher attended the parade</figcaption>
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 <figcaption>Santa Claus traveled down Washington Street during the parade.</figcaption>
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Christmas Parade kicks off the holiday season

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

From 2021 to 2022, the number of Kansas children who didn’t know where their next meal would come from grew by 37,000.&nbsp;

The rise in food insecurity shows up at food banks across the state.&nbsp;

Aundrea Walker, the executive director of Just Food, said 30% of the people it serves are under 18 years old. Walker has worked at the Lawrence-based food bank for 10 years. She’s never seen demand so high.&nbsp;

“The amount of individuals and households we’re serving is absolutely insane,” she said.&nbsp;

Walker said Just Food spends about $40,000 a month on food. That isn’t enough.&nbsp;

“We’re constantly running out,” she said.&nbsp;

Walker said the pantry had to create new, paid staff positions to collect more food. At other food banks, some families line up two hours before the pantry opens.&nbsp;

The jump in food insecurity is mostly attributed to two things: rising inflation and pandemic-era benefit programs running out. Combined, they leave less money for families and force tough choices between paying bills or eating.&nbsp;

The number of children who didn’t know where their next meal would come from jumped from 13.4% in 2021 to 19.1% in 2022, according to Kansas Action for Children’s 2024 Kids Count Databook.&nbsp;

“(I’m) alarmed by it,” said John Wilson, president and CEO of Kansas Action for Children. “When we see every single Kansas county experience an increase in food insecurity among kids, that’s troubling.”&nbsp;

Certain pandemic-era programs ran out at the end of 2021 or start of 2022. Families getting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or food stamps, could receive the maximum benefit. That ended. Congress temporarily expanded a child care tax credit giving families hundreds more per year. That didn’t make it past 2021. Cost-free student meals were an option. But that was gone by the summer of 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

To help kids in Kansas, “we have to help the people who care for them, too,” Wilson said.&nbsp;

Advocates for a stronger social safety want the Republican-controlled Statehouse to put more tax dollars toward things like food security.&nbsp;

Kansas Republicans not likely to address food insecurity

Republican leaders in the House and Senate didn’t say whether they’d debate bills to address the issue. Historically, the conservative state Legislature hasn’t seriously considered proposals in recent years that would expand SNAP or other social service programs.&nbsp;

Advocates for more public spending on social services say the Legislature has instead put up barriers.&nbsp;

The 2015 Hope Act bans state officials from using federal or state money to advertise SNAP programs on radio, billboards or television. The U.S. Department of Agriculture said only 70% of eligible people actually get SNAP benefits in Kansas. That’s below the national average of 82%.&nbsp;

Kansas is one of the last states in the country not using&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-10-02/why-kansas-makes-it-harder-to-qualify-for-food-assistance-than-most-other-states">broad-based categorical eligibility</a>. It’s a federal program that allows more flexibility in admitting Kansans to food benefit programs. It doesn’t guarantee more people get SNAP, but it can mean owning a car or having more assets doesn’t disqualify someone.&nbsp;

Kansas also permanently bans people with multiple drug felonies from getting food stamps, and just last year, the House Welfare Reform Committee supported a bill that would prevent families from buying candy or soda with EBT cards.&nbsp;

Republicans argue those policies protect against the misuse of tax money.

Rep. Francis Awerkamp, a St. Marys Republican, introduced a bill to prevent the Kansas Department for Children and Families from participating in the summer electronic benefits transfer for children program. That program gives Kansas families who are on free or reduced-price lunches a one-time, $120 payment for meals over the summer.&nbsp;

Awerkamp, chair of the Welfare Reform committee, didn’t respond to requests from The Beacon.&nbsp;

Walker, with Just Food, said the Legislature has done some things to help. It eliminated the sales tax on groceries, which helps when you spend $460,000 a year on food like her group does. She said efforts to cap inflation would also help, but food insecurity is a multifaceted problem that can’t be fixed with just one bill.&nbsp;

The pandemic-era benefits programs cost millions, which is one reason Republicans are apprehensive about expansion. Haley Kottler, an advocate for a strong social safety net at Kansas Appleseed, said cheaper alternatives could feed more Kansans.&nbsp;

The Legislature could end the food stamps ban for Kansans with multiple drug felonies. The state could also simplify the food assistance application program so it isn’t as complicated to apply. Kottler also wants to see universal meal programs expanded.&nbsp;

Harvesters helps food banks in 17 counties in northeast Kansas and 10 counties in northwest Missouri. Sarah Biles, a Harvesters spokesperson, said the demand for food assistance hasn’t been this strong since the 2008 recession. Demand at food pantries was dropping year after year until the pandemic hit, and the 2022 numbers ballooned back up to the 2008 level.&nbsp;

Biles said government intervention is important. For every meal provided by a food bank or charitable organization, SNAP can provide nine meals.&nbsp;

“We definitely all need to work together to solve this issue,” she said. “There’s plenty of food in the United States. It’s a matter of getting all that food to where it’s needed most.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729708341876.jpg" alt="Image courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/author/blaise-mesa/">BLAISE MESA</a> The BeaconFrom 2021 to 2022, the number of Kansas children who didn’t know where their next meal would come from grew by 37,000.&nbsp;The rise in food insecurity shows up at food banks across the state.&nbsp;Aundrea Walker, the executive director of Just Food, said 30% of the people it serves are under 18 years old. Walker has worked at the Lawrence-based food bank for 10 years. She’s never seen demand so high.&nbsp;“The amount of individuals and households we’re serving is absolutely insane,” she said.&nbsp;Walker said Just Food spends about $40,000 a month on food. That isn’t enough.&nbsp;“We’re constantly running out,” she said.&nbsp;Walker said the pantry had to create new, paid staff positions to collect more food. At other food banks, some families line up two hours before the pantry opens.&nbsp;The jump in food insecurity is mostly attributed to two things: rising inflation and pandemic-era benefit programs running out. Combined, they leave less money for families and force tough choices between paying bills or eating.&nbsp;The number of children who didn’t know where their next meal would come from jumped from 13.4% in 2021 to 19.1% in 2022, according to Kansas Action for Children’s 2024 Kids Count Databook.&nbsp;“(I’m) alarmed by it,” said John Wilson, president and CEO of Kansas Action for Children. “When we see every single Kansas county experience an increase in food insecurity among kids, that’s troubling.”&nbsp;Certain pandemic-era programs ran out at the end of 2021 or start of 2022. Families getting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or food stamps, could receive the maximum benefit. That ended. Congress temporarily expanded a child care tax credit giving families hundreds more per year. That didn’t make it past 2021. Cost-free student meals were an option. But that was gone by the summer of 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;To help kids in Kansas, “we have to help the people who care for them, too,” Wilson said.&nbsp;Advocates for a stronger social safety want the Republican-controlled Statehouse to put more tax dollars toward things like food security.&nbsp;<h2>Kansas Republicans not likely to address food insecurity</h2>Republican leaders in the House and Senate didn’t say whether they’d debate bills to address the issue. Historically, the conservative state Legislature hasn’t seriously considered proposals in recent years that would expand SNAP or other social service programs.&nbsp;Advocates for more public spending on social services say the Legislature has instead put up barriers.&nbsp;The 2015 Hope Act bans state officials from using federal or state money to advertise SNAP programs on radio, billboards or television. The U.S. Department of Agriculture said only 70% of eligible people actually get SNAP benefits in Kansas. That’s below the national average of 82%.&nbsp;Kansas is one of the last states in the country not using&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-10-02/why-kansas-makes-it-harder-to-qualify-for-food-assistance-than-most-other-states">broad-based categorical eligibility</a>. It’s a federal program that allows more flexibility in admitting Kansans to food benefit programs. It doesn’t guarantee more people get SNAP, but it can mean owning a car or having more assets doesn’t disqualify someone.&nbsp;Kansas also permanently bans people with multiple drug felonies from getting food stamps, and just last year, the House Welfare Reform Committee supported a bill that would prevent families from buying candy or soda with EBT cards.&nbsp;Republicans argue those policies protect against the misuse of tax money.Rep. Francis Awerkamp, a St. Marys Republican, introduced a bill to prevent the Kansas Department for Children and Families from participating in the summer electronic benefits transfer for children program. That program gives Kansas families who are on free or reduced-price lunches a one-time, $120 payment for meals over the summer.&nbsp;Awerkamp, chair of the Welfare Reform committee, didn’t respond to requests from The Beacon.&nbsp;Walker, with Just Food, said the Legislature has done some things to help. It eliminated the sales tax on groceries, which helps when you spend $460,000 a year on food like her group does. She said efforts to cap inflation would also help, but food insecurity is a multifaceted problem that can’t be fixed with just one bill.&nbsp;<h2>Looking to the 2025 session&nbsp;</h2>The pandemic-era benefits programs cost millions, which is one reason Republicans are apprehensive about expansion. Haley Kottler, an advocate for a strong social safety net at Kansas Appleseed, said cheaper alternatives could feed more Kansans.&nbsp;The Legislature could end the food stamps ban for Kansans with multiple drug felonies. The state could also simplify the food assistance application program so it isn’t as complicated to apply. Kottler also wants to see universal meal programs expanded.&nbsp;Harvesters helps food banks in 17 counties in northeast Kansas and 10 counties in northwest Missouri. Sarah Biles, a Harvesters spokesperson, said the demand for food assistance hasn’t been this strong since the 2008 recession. Demand at food pantries was dropping year after year until the pandemic hit, and the 2022 numbers ballooned back up to the 2008 level.&nbsp;Biles said government intervention is important. For every meal provided by a food bank or charitable organization, SNAP can provide nine meals.&nbsp;“We definitely all need to work together to solve this issue,” she said. “There’s plenty of food in the United States. It’s a matter of getting all that food to where it’s needed most.”&nbsp;

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