The Geary County Historical Society will be hosting their annual Bingo event this Saturday, March 2nd. &nbsp;

The event includes a soup and chili feed beginning at 5:30pm. Meals are $8 and include soup or chili, a drink and dessert. Bingo games will begin at 6:30 with reusable bingo cards sold for $6 or 2 for $10. Bingo prizes have been generously donated by community businesses.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709076408318.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Geary County Historical Society will be hosting their annual Bingo event this Saturday, March 2nd. &nbsp;The event includes a soup and chili feed beginning at 5:30pm. Meals are $8 and include soup or chili, a drink and dessert. Bingo games will begin at 6:30 with reusable bingo cards sold for $6 or 2 for $10. Bingo prizes have been generously donated by community businesses.

Historical Society hosts a fundraiser

The First United Methodist Church has announced that Curtis and Jami Schwering have taken over as their Youth Group Leaders.&nbsp; Curtis and Jami come from Ft Riley, where Curtis is serving in the Sustainment Brigade and Jami is the 5th&nbsp;grade math teacher at Fort Riley Elementary. 

After calling the Fort Riley area home for 4 years, the family decided to make roots in Junction City with their two sons Derrick and Bobby. The youth group meets every 1st and 3rd Sunday from 5-7pm. All middle school and high school students are welcome! You don't have to be a member of the church, or any church, to be apart of the youth group. They want to provide a safe, positive, and fun atmosphere that includes dinner, classes and adventures throughout the year.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709062162838.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Harold MacumberThe First United Methodist Church has announced that Curtis and Jami Schwering have taken over as their Youth Group Leaders.&nbsp; Curtis and Jami come from Ft Riley, where Curtis is serving in the Sustainment Brigade and Jami is the 5th&nbsp;grade math teacher at Fort Riley Elementary. After calling the Fort Riley area home for 4 years, the family decided to make roots in Junction City with their two sons Derrick and Bobby. The youth group meets every 1st and 3rd Sunday from 5-7pm. All middle school and high school students are welcome! You don't have to be a member of the church, or any church, to be apart of the youth group. They want to provide a safe, positive, and fun atmosphere that includes dinner, classes and adventures throughout the year.&nbsp; &nbsp;

JC First United Methodist Welcomes new Youth Directors

At approximately 12:45 p.m. Tuesday Junction City Public Works crews were working on a water main break in the 900 block of North Perry. Residents may experience low to no water pressure until all repairs are complete. If you have questions call Junction City Public Works at 785-238-7142.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostAt approximately 12:45 p.m. Tuesday Junction City Public Works crews were working on a water main break in the 900 block of North Perry. Residents may experience low to no water pressure until all repairs are complete. If you have questions call Junction City Public Works at 785-238-7142.

Junction City Public Works crews respond to water main break

Catbackers are starting up again

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.

Lauren Walters, Failure to appear, arrested 02/26

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/2024/2/1709053153810.jpeg" alt="Tierra Marks, Driving while license cancelled/suspended or revoked, arrested 02/26" />
 <figcaption>Tierra Marks, Driving while license cancelled/suspended or revoked, arrested 02/26</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709053200274.jpeg" alt="Sunshine Umayam, Failure to appear (two counts), arrested 02/26" />
 <figcaption>Sunshine Umayam, Failure to appear (two counts), arrested 02/26</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709053241181.jpeg" alt="Joshua Grilliot, Parole violation, Interference with LEO, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, arrested 02/26" />
 <figcaption>Joshua Grilliot, Parole violation, Interference with LEO, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, arrested 02/26</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709053355524.jpeg" alt="Marvin Roush, Failure to appear, arrested 02/26" />
 <figcaption>Marvin Roush, Failure to appear, arrested 02/26</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709053380309.jpeg" alt="Dylan Mcsherley, Failure to appear, arrested 02/26" />
 <figcaption>Dylan Mcsherley, Failure to appear, arrested 02/26</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709053415999.jpeg" alt="Ray Iverson, Possession of stimulant, arrested 02/27" />
 <figcaption>Ray Iverson, Possession of stimulant, arrested 02/27</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Lauren Walters, Failure to appear, arrested 02/26Recent 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 Feb. 27

MORRIS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Manhattan man on multiple allegations after a weekend traffic stop.

Just after 11:30p.m. Feb. 24, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a Toyota Corolla for a traffic violation on U.S. Highway 77 and M Avenue, according to a media release.

Sheriff's K9 Kimber conducted a free air sniff of the vehicle and indicated to the oder of narcotics emitting from within the car.

After a probably cause search of the car, the deputy arrested 31-year-old Ryan C. Kelly of Manhattan on requested charges of possession of meth, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while license canceled, suspended or revoked.&nbsp; He is being held in Chase County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709052966635.png" alt="Kelly is being held in Chase County" />
 <figcaption>Kelly is being held in Chase County</figcaption>
 </figure>MORRIS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Manhattan man on multiple allegations after a weekend traffic stop.Just after 11:30p.m. Feb. 24, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a Toyota Corolla for a traffic violation on U.S. Highway 77 and M Avenue, according to a media release.Sheriff's K9 Kimber conducted a free air sniff of the vehicle and indicated to the oder of narcotics emitting from within the car.After a probably cause search of the car, the deputy arrested 31-year-old Ryan C. Kelly of Manhattan on requested charges of possession of meth, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while license canceled, suspended or revoked.&nbsp; He is being held in Chase County.

Manhattan man jailed after sheriff's K9 alerts to drugs in car

Geary USD 475 has announced the induction of 101 fourth and fifth grade students into its National Elementary Honor Society chapter this school year.

NEHS provides Geary County Schools USD 475 fourth and fifth grade students a place to develop and practice their skills for service and leadership not only in the community, but also at their school. By adding the elementary chapter, the district now has a National Honor Society at elementary, middle and high school.

USD 475 wants to recognize and develop our young leaders and scholars to set them up for lifelong civic engagement, and this is just another way we are able to do that,” said Jennifer Black, Geary County Schools USD 475 Director of Elementary Education.

Geary USD 475 has announced the induction of 101 fourth and fifth grade students into its National Elementary Honor Society chapter this school year.NEHS provides Geary County Schools USD 475 fourth and fifth grade students a place to develop and practice their skills for service and leadership not only in the community, but also at their school. By adding the elementary chapter, the district now has a National Honor Society at elementary, middle and high school.USD 475 wants to recognize and develop our young leaders and scholars to set them up for lifelong civic engagement, and this is just another way we are able to do that,” said Jennifer Black, Geary County Schools USD 475 Director of Elementary Education.Matt HooverUSD 475 Communications Coordinator&nbsp;

Students are inducted into the USD 475 National Elementary Honor Society chapter

By RICK HELLMAN KU News Service

&nbsp;Mahbub Rashid sees cities differently than most people. And you might say the dean of the University of Kansas School of Architecture &amp; Design ought to do that.

But Rashid has taken&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/news/article/2017/03/13/new-book-analyzes-cities-geometry">spatial analysis</a>&nbsp;of urban development to the cutting edge of technology — and this view of small-town Kansas suggests to him that much more can be done to promote the health of people who live there.

Rashid’s new book,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.press.jhu.edu/books/title/12573/built-environment-and-population-health-small-town-america">“Built Environment and Population Health in Small-Town America: Learning from Small Cities of Kansas”</a>&nbsp;(Johns Hopkins University Press), looks at how lifestyle behaviors and health indicators are associated with spatial planning and design factors in 36 small Kansas cities with populations between 2,500 and 49,999.

Rashid measured the&nbsp;size and density of each city, its distance from a large city, its daytime population change and the average commuting time of its residents – and he found that all these factors seem to affect how population health is associated with the built environment there.

“A daily two-hour commute is not only a long time in the&nbsp;car, but it also decreases the time one has available to spend with family and friends by that amount,” Rashid said.

Increasing distance from large cities increases isolation — something that has become a reality in small towns with the loss of 20th&nbsp;century transportation options like bus and train service.

“In essence, the&nbsp;relationship&nbsp;between population health and built environment seems to depend on how rural you are,” Rashid said. “And we should develop our design and planning guidelines for small cities with that in mind.

“Having more grocery stores, a better food network or more sidewalks are all desirable to improve population health in small towns, but there may be other ways to accomplish the same ends. For instance, if we are able to reduce&nbsp;commute time to the nearby big city&nbsp;through better public transportation systems, then probably lifestyle will change for the better. People might use parks more, and, as a result, their health and relationships with others might improve.”

Rashid said he sympathized with the various headwinds confronting small-city planners and designers.

“These people are in a bind,” he said. “For reasons beyond their control, they can do very little to keep critical-access-care hospitals, which are often the economic engine of these small cities, from closing down. They can also do very little to get the transportation services these cities need. There is even a resistance, in some cases, to the external government funding that they need to accomplish anything at all. So you see a vicious cycle of decline in the built environment and population health here in these small cities.”

And yet the book cites a few success stories.

Rashid writes that for Baldwin City, rebuffing a big-box store helped save local merchants, preserve the vitality of its downtown and perhaps even some&nbsp;walkability that contributes to public health. And leaders of Montezuma, he said, “found the balance between the development of wind turbines and their economic interest.”

Rashid is a pioneer in studying population health in relation to the built environments of small cities. He said he hoped the book would offer support to those who care about the health of residents in small cities nationwide.

Rashid said that leaders of small cities should partner regionally to achieve critical mass and take public health into account in all their development decisions.

“Small towns studied in the book are not big enough to have a planner’s office,” Rashid said. “They may have one person who works as a liaison between the city government and the regional bodies. ... So they will need to be a jack of all trades. They need a good understanding of the politics of the place and how to do public relations while applying appropriate planning tools for improving population health.

“A traditional urban-planning mindset may not work for small-town planning and design. And for this, we will need a planning education relevant to small towns.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709049646482.jpeg" alt="This map shows the 36 small Kansas cities featured in "Built Environment and Population Health in Small-Town America." Credit: Mahbub Rashid, author." />
 <figcaption>This map shows the 36 small Kansas cities featured in "Built Environment and Population Health in Small-Town America." Credit: Mahbub Rashid, author.</figcaption>
 </figure>By RICK HELLMAN KU News Service&nbsp;Mahbub Rashid sees cities differently than most people. And you might say the dean of the University of Kansas School of Architecture &amp; Design ought to do that.But Rashid has taken&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/news/article/2017/03/13/new-book-analyzes-cities-geometry">spatial analysis</a>&nbsp;of urban development to the cutting edge of technology — and this view of small-town Kansas suggests to him that much more can be done to promote the health of people who live there.Rashid’s new book,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.press.jhu.edu/books/title/12573/built-environment-and-population-health-small-town-america">“Built Environment and Population Health in Small-Town America: Learning from Small Cities of Kansas”</a>&nbsp;(Johns Hopkins University Press), looks at how lifestyle behaviors and health indicators are associated with spatial planning and design factors in 36 small Kansas cities with populations between 2,500 and 49,999.Rashid measured the&nbsp;size and density of each city, its distance from a large city, its daytime population change and the average commuting time of its residents – and he found that all these factors seem to affect how population health is associated with the built environment there.“A daily two-hour commute is not only a long time in the&nbsp;car, but it also decreases the time one has available to spend with family and friends by that amount,” Rashid said.Increasing distance from large cities increases isolation — something that has become a reality in small towns with the loss of 20th&nbsp;century transportation options like bus and train service.“In essence, the&nbsp;relationship&nbsp;between population health and built environment seems to depend on how rural you are,” Rashid said. “And we should develop our design and planning guidelines for small cities with that in mind.“Having more grocery stores, a better food network or more sidewalks are all desirable to improve population health in small towns, but there may be other ways to accomplish the same ends. For instance, if we are able to reduce&nbsp;commute time to the nearby big city&nbsp;through better public transportation systems, then probably lifestyle will change for the better. People might use parks more, and, as a result, their health and relationships with others might improve.”Rashid said he sympathized with the various headwinds confronting small-city planners and designers.“These people are in a bind,” he said. “For reasons beyond their control, they can do very little to keep critical-access-care hospitals, which are often the economic engine of these small cities, from closing down. They can also do very little to get the transportation services these cities need. There is even a resistance, in some cases, to the external government funding that they need to accomplish anything at all. So you see a vicious cycle of decline in the built environment and population health here in these small cities.”And yet the book cites a few success stories.Rashid writes that for Baldwin City, rebuffing a big-box store helped save local merchants, preserve the vitality of its downtown and perhaps even some&nbsp;walkability that contributes to public health. And leaders of Montezuma, he said, “found the balance between the development of wind turbines and their economic interest.”Rashid is a pioneer in studying population health in relation to the built environments of small cities. He said he hoped the book would offer support to those who care about the health of residents in small cities nationwide.Rashid said that leaders of small cities should partner regionally to achieve critical mass and take public health into account in all their development decisions.“Small towns studied in the book are not big enough to have a planner’s office,” Rashid said. “They may have one person who works as a liaison between the city government and the regional bodies. ... So they will need to be a jack of all trades. They need a good understanding of the politics of the place and how to do public relations while applying appropriate planning tools for improving population health.“A traditional urban-planning mindset may not work for small-town planning and design. And for this, we will need a planning education relevant to small towns.”

Lessons in population health from small-city Kansas

Michael Rezkalla will become the next CEO for Pawnee Mental Health. He will replace Robbin Cole, CEO, who in October announced her intention to retire after 28 years of service to Pawnee.

Pawnee Mental Heath has announced that Rezkalla most recently worked as the VP of Operations and Chief Operating Officer of UMass Memorial Community Healthlink, Worcester, MA. His first day with Pawnee will be March 4. 

Rezkalla and Cole will work together throughout March and into April to ensure a smooth transition in leadership. Cole informed the Geary County Commission on Monday that Rezkalla will be formally introduced at a Pawnee Mental Health annual meeting in Clay Center April 23. He will also be at a luncheon on April 9 in their Junction City office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709048326609.jpeg" alt="Michael Rezkalla ( Pawnee Mental Health )" />
 <figcaption>Michael Rezkalla ( Pawnee Mental Health )</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostMichael Rezkalla will become the next CEO for Pawnee Mental Health. He will replace Robbin Cole, CEO, who in October announced her intention to retire after 28 years of service to Pawnee.Pawnee Mental Heath has announced that Rezkalla most recently worked as the VP of Operations and Chief Operating Officer of UMass Memorial Community Healthlink, Worcester, MA. His first day with Pawnee will be March 4. Rezkalla and Cole will work together throughout March and into April to ensure a smooth transition in leadership. Cole informed the Geary County Commission on Monday that Rezkalla will be formally introduced at a Pawnee Mental Health annual meeting in Clay Center April 23. He will also be at a luncheon on April 9 in their Junction City office.

There will be a new CEO for Pawnee Mental Health

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged forgery and theft in Manhattan.

Just before 1:30p.m. Monday, officers filed a report for forgery and theft by deception in the 700 block of Poyntz Avenue in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity re port.

&nbsp;Flint Hills Beverage and a 38-year-old man reported an unknown suspect fraudulently wrote and cashed checks at numerous banks in the area. 

The total loss associated with this case is approximately $10,000. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged forgery and theft in Manhattan.Just before 1:30p.m. Monday, officers filed a report for forgery and theft by deception in the 700 block of Poyntz Avenue in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity re port.&nbsp;Flint Hills Beverage and a 38-year-old man reported an unknown suspect fraudulently wrote and cashed checks at numerous banks in the area. The total loss associated with this case is approximately $10,000. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: Suspect wrote, cashed fake checks at banks in the area

The proposed Taylor Road Interchange on the southwest edge of Junction City moved into the spotlight with the Geary County Commission on Monday. The Chair of the governing body, Trish Giordano, said KDOT wants a detailed plan for infrastructure and business in that area.

The issue received discussion at a joint city - county - school district meeting. Earlier in the day at a county commission meeting, Giordano touched on the interchange. She noted that a lot of people feel the proposed slaughterhouse is associated with it." They need to have those fears put to rest." She added that some people are opposed to the interchange regardless of what it is.

Commissioner Alex Tyson pointed to three factors including the slaughterhouse implications, people don't want growth and people look at other areas in the city that have been neglected for years." Got to be something laid out to the community. That way they understand and move forward. Tyson added that he thought that has not happened. Giordano then said we are not where we want to be. We have not done that.

Tyson noted officials want small businesses to stay and all of those things. "But we've got to stop shooting ourselves in the foot when those opportunities occur." Tyson said you have to trust the process. "Now we are in a better place where we need to understand and come together and work together on things like this."

Commissioner Keith Ascher noted that everyone needs to be on the same page to move the community forward.&nbsp;

There was strong opposition to an earlier proposal for a slaughterhouse near the Taylor Road interchange but that project has been silent for some time.&nbsp;

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThe proposed Taylor Road Interchange on the southwest edge of Junction City moved into the spotlight with the Geary County Commission on Monday. The Chair of the governing body, Trish Giordano, said KDOT wants a detailed plan for infrastructure and business in that area.The issue received discussion at a joint city - county - school district meeting. Earlier in the day at a county commission meeting, Giordano touched on the interchange. She noted that a lot of people feel the proposed slaughterhouse is associated with it." They need to have those fears put to rest." She added that some people are opposed to the interchange regardless of what it is.Commissioner Alex Tyson pointed to three factors including the slaughterhouse implications, people don't want growth and people look at other areas in the city that have been neglected for years." Got to be something laid out to the community. That way they understand and move forward. Tyson added that he thought that has not happened. Giordano then said we are not where we want to be. We have not done that.Tyson noted officials want small businesses to stay and all of those things. "But we've got to stop shooting ourselves in the foot when those opportunities occur." Tyson said you have to trust the process. "Now we are in a better place where we need to understand and come together and work together on things like this."Commissioner Keith Ascher noted that everyone needs to be on the same page to move the community forward.&nbsp;There was strong opposition to an earlier proposal for a slaughterhouse near the Taylor Road interchange but that project has been silent for some time.&nbsp;

County wants a detailed plan for the Taylor Road Interchange

Geary County Commissioners have approved the purchase of a used one ton 2018 Dodge Ram truck for the Emergency Management / Rural Fire Department at a cost of approximately $40,000. The vehicle will be used to carry two fuel tanks that can be used to provide fuel to rural fire trucks in the field.

Rural Fire Chief Garry Berges noted that the 2018 vehicle will replace a 2007 Chevrolet one-half ton truck.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary County Commissioners have approved the purchase of a used one ton 2018 Dodge Ram truck for the Emergency Management / Rural Fire Department at a cost of approximately $40,000. The vehicle will be used to carry two fuel tanks that can be used to provide fuel to rural fire trucks in the field.Rural Fire Chief Garry Berges noted that the 2018 vehicle will replace a 2007 Chevrolet one-half ton truck.

County approves purchase for Rural Fire / Emergency Management

Ever spend hours (and hours) inputting complicated financial information online only have it deleted? It’s frustrating enough when it’s due to a technical glitch, but&nbsp;<a href="https://edit.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/02/ftc-takes-action-against-tax-prep-company-hr-block-wiping-consumers-data-deceptively-marketing-free">according to an FTC complaint against tax preparer H&amp;R Block</a>, wiping out consumers’ already keyed-in tax data was an intentional sales tactic the company used to pressure people to pay for pricier products. Read on to learn more about H&amp;R Block’s conduct that the FTC alleges is, well, taxing – and deceptive and unfair – to consumers.

According to an administrative complaint that will be available soon&nbsp;<a href="https://edit.ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/hr-block">on the FTC website</a>, H&amp;R Block has used an extensive TV and online campaign to deceptively market its services as “free” – as in “nada. . . zip. . . zilch” – when the services weren’t free for most filers. While ads said the “free” offer applied to “simple returns,” the FTC alleges H&amp;R Block made it difficult for consumers to figure out whether their returns qualified as “simple.” What’s more, the FTC says the company frequently changed its own definition of “simple.” The complaint cites examples of the confusion and frustration caused by the company’s allegedly deceptive claims.

But it’s how H&amp;R Block allegedly coerced people to pay for services they didn’t need that merits particular attention. According to the complaint, throughout the online filing process, the company upsold pricier services without a clear breakdown of what they would cost. But when consumers decided to downgrade to a more affordable H&amp;R Block product, the FTC says the company had some aggravating – and unfair – surprises for them. First, they couldn’t downgrade without communicating directly with H&amp;R Block’s customer service department. Second, after people had spent substantial time inputting their tax information and then decided to downgrade to a less expensive H&amp;R Block filing product, the FTC says the company presented them with an unfair choice: pay for a more expensive product they didn’t want or need or H&amp;R Block would wipe out nearly all of their already typed-in tax information and make them start from scratch.

And let’s be clear. The FTC alleges this wasn’t a system glitch. It was an intentional sales tactic to create a disincentive for consumers who wanted a more affordable option. The complaint charges that H&amp;R Block retained the data for consumers who upgraded, but deleted the data for those who downgraded, forcing many consumers to choose between overpaying or losing all the information they had already entered.

Count I of the complaint challenges H&amp;R Block’s policy of making consumers who want to downgrade communicate with its customer service department – an often time-consuming hoop the company didn’t require upgrading customers to jump through. Count II alleges that H&amp;R Block’s tactic of requiring consumers either to pay for more expensive products they didn’t need or to have their data wiped out after hours of effort was an unfair practice, in violation of the FTC Act. Count III alleges that the company’s “free” filing claims are deceptive.

Even at this early stage, this is an important case for advertisers to follow.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708975908202.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Federal Trade CommissionEver spend hours (and hours) inputting complicated financial information online only have it deleted? It’s frustrating enough when it’s due to a technical glitch, but&nbsp;<a href="https://edit.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/02/ftc-takes-action-against-tax-prep-company-hr-block-wiping-consumers-data-deceptively-marketing-free">according to an FTC complaint against tax preparer H&amp;R Block</a>, wiping out consumers’ already keyed-in tax data was an intentional sales tactic the company used to pressure people to pay for pricier products. Read on to learn more about H&amp;R Block’s conduct that the FTC alleges is, well, taxing – and deceptive and unfair – to consumers.According to an administrative complaint that will be available soon&nbsp;<a href="https://edit.ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/hr-block">on the FTC website</a>, H&amp;R Block has used an extensive TV and online campaign to deceptively market its services as “free” – as in “nada. . . zip. . . zilch” – when the services weren’t free for most filers. While ads said the “free” offer applied to “simple returns,” the FTC alleges H&amp;R Block made it difficult for consumers to figure out whether their returns qualified as “simple.” What’s more, the FTC says the company frequently changed its own definition of “simple.” The complaint cites examples of the confusion and frustration caused by the company’s allegedly deceptive claims.But it’s how H&amp;R Block allegedly coerced people to pay for services they didn’t need that merits particular attention. According to the complaint, throughout the online filing process, the company upsold pricier services without a clear breakdown of what they would cost. But when consumers decided to downgrade to a more affordable H&amp;R Block product, the FTC says the company had some aggravating – and unfair – surprises for them. First, they couldn’t downgrade without communicating directly with H&amp;R Block’s customer service department. Second, after people had spent substantial time inputting their tax information and then decided to downgrade to a less expensive H&amp;R Block filing product, the FTC says the company presented them with an unfair choice: pay for a more expensive product they didn’t want or need or H&amp;R Block would wipe out nearly all of their already typed-in tax information and make them start from scratch.And let’s be clear. The FTC alleges this wasn’t a system glitch. It was an intentional sales tactic to create a disincentive for consumers who wanted a more affordable option. The complaint charges that H&amp;R Block retained the data for consumers who upgraded, but deleted the data for those who downgraded, forcing many consumers to choose between overpaying or losing all the information they had already entered.Count I of the complaint challenges H&amp;R Block’s policy of making consumers who want to downgrade communicate with its customer service department – an often time-consuming hoop the company didn’t require upgrading customers to jump through. Count II alleges that H&amp;R Block’s tactic of requiring consumers either to pay for more expensive products they didn’t need or to have their data wiped out after hours of effort was an unfair practice, in violation of the FTC Act. Count III alleges that the company’s “free” filing claims are deceptive.Even at this early stage, this is an important case for advertisers to follow.

H&R Block wiped out the tax data of consumers trying to choose a more affordable option, FTC alleges

The transient guest tax received brief discussion at the Geary County Commission meeting on Monday but no final action was taken. 

One week ago the governing body was informed that the Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau Advisory Committee had recommended a two percent increase which would have raised the total tax to eight percent. Since then the commission has learned there was never any recommendation from that board.

CVB Director Donna Price will be asked to take the issue back to the CVB Advisory Committee for input. The issue could then return to the county commission in the future.

&nbsp;Commission Chair Trish Giordano explained Monday that she does not want the tax in Geary County to be higher than the transient guest tax in Manhattan, which totals 7.5 percent.

The transient guest tax is paid by users of lodging facilities.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThe transient guest tax received brief discussion at the Geary County Commission meeting on Monday but no final action was taken. One week ago the governing body was informed that the Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau Advisory Committee had recommended a two percent increase which would have raised the total tax to eight percent. Since then the commission has learned there was never any recommendation from that board.CVB Director Donna Price will be asked to take the issue back to the CVB Advisory Committee for input. The issue could then return to the county commission in the future.&nbsp;Commission Chair Trish Giordano explained Monday that she does not want the tax in Geary County to be higher than the transient guest tax in Manhattan, which totals 7.5 percent.The transient guest tax is paid by users of lodging facilities.

No final action taken by the County on the transient guest tax

Olivia Michaud, Failure to appear, arrested 02/23

Elijah Millender, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 02/23

Tavon Fluellyn, Failure to appear, arrested 02/23

John Conover, Battery against a law enforcement officer, Domestic battery, arrested 02/24

David Bruce, Cancelled/suspended/revoked drivers license, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 02/24

Samuel Dinmore, Fleeing and eluding, Resisting arrest, Interference with LEO, arrested 02/24

Santana Cortez, Outside warrant, arrested 02/24

David Galaviz, Cancelled/suspended/revoked drivers license, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 02/24

Cintron Figueroa, Criminal deprivation to property, arrested 02/24

Faith Williams, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution, Unlawful shooting in the city, Possession of a firearm while under the influence, arrested 02/25

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/2024/2/1708974329620.jpeg" alt="Kaytlan Tanner, Failure to appear, Probation violation (Two counts), arrested 02/23" />
 <figcaption>Kaytlan Tanner, Failure to appear, Probation violation (Two counts), arrested 02/23</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708974373327.jpeg" alt="Lee Bullington, Outside warrant, Failure to appear, Probation violation (Two counts), arrested 02/24" />
 <figcaption>Lee Bullington, Outside warrant, Failure to appear, Probation violation (Two counts), arrested 02/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708974423785.jpeg" alt="Jeffrey Gasswint, Violation of restrictions on drivers license or permit, Ignition interlock device, Operate a car without required device, arrested 02/25" />
 <figcaption>Jeffrey Gasswint, Violation of restrictions on drivers license or permit, Ignition interlock device, Operate a car without required device, arrested 02/25</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708974531865.jpeg" alt="Ruby Riggins, Criminal trespass, arrested 02/25" />
 <figcaption>Ruby Riggins, Criminal trespass, arrested 02/25</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708974563018.jpeg" alt="Jordan White, Criminal threat, Cause terror, Evacuation or disruption, arrested 02/25" />
 <figcaption>Jordan White, Criminal threat, Cause terror, Evacuation or disruption, arrested 02/25</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708974613997.jpeg" alt="Ronald Brogan, Aggravated domestic battery, Impede breath, blocking nose/mouth of family/dating relationship, Domestic battery, Criminal damage to property, to injure or defraud value &lt;$1,000, arrested 02/26" />
 <figcaption>Ronald Brogan, Aggravated domestic battery, Impede breath, blocking nose/mouth of family/dating relationship, Domestic battery, Criminal damage to property, to injure or defraud value &lt;$1,000, arrested 02/26</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708974724284.jpeg" alt="Denail Carter, Taxation, drugs, No drug stamp payment for marijuana or controlled substance, Possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture/plant/cultivate controlled substance, Distribute marijuana, arrested 02/26" />
 <figcaption>Denail Carter, Taxation, drugs, No drug stamp payment for marijuana or controlled substance, Possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture/plant/cultivate controlled substance, Distribute marijuana, arrested 02/26</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Olivia Michaud, Failure to appear, arrested 02/23Elijah Millender, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 02/23Tavon Fluellyn, Failure to appear, arrested 02/23John Conover, Battery against a law enforcement officer, Domestic battery, arrested 02/24David Bruce, Cancelled/suspended/revoked drivers license, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 02/24Samuel Dinmore, Fleeing and eluding, Resisting arrest, Interference with LEO, arrested 02/24Santana Cortez, Outside warrant, arrested 02/24David Galaviz, Cancelled/suspended/revoked drivers license, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 02/24Cintron Figueroa, Criminal deprivation to property, arrested 02/24Faith Williams, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution, Unlawful shooting in the city, Possession of a firearm while under the influence, arrested 02/25Recent 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 Feb. 24-26

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged identity theft in Manhattan.

On Saturday,&nbsp; officers filed a report for identity theft in the 1000 block of S. Seth Child Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 44-year-old woman reported an unknown subject used her social security number to obtain a credit card. The total loss associated with this report is $26,247.71. 

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

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged identity theft in Manhattan.On Saturday,&nbsp; officers filed a report for identity theft in the 1000 block of S. Seth Child Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 44-year-old woman reported an unknown subject used her social security number to obtain a credit card. The total loss associated with this report is $26,247.71. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stopper</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000

RCPD: Woman lost $26,000 in credit card fraud

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Riley County teen on child sex crime allegations.

Just before 7p.m. on Friday, police arrested 16-year-old Skylor Wilson of Ogden, on a Riley County District Court warrant on four counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, 2 counts of aggravated criminal sodomy, 2 counts of indecent solicitation of a child, 2 counts of lewd and lascivious – exposing sex organs to another, and criminal threat, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

In July he was jailed on a requested charge of Criminal damage to property, according to the RCPD.

Wilson is being held on a&nbsp; $75,000 bond.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Riley County teen on child sex crime allegations.Just before 7p.m. on Friday, police arrested 16-year-old Skylor Wilson of Ogden, on a Riley County District Court warrant on four counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, 2 counts of aggravated criminal sodomy, 2 counts of indecent solicitation of a child, 2 counts of lewd and lascivious – exposing sex organs to another, and criminal threat, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.In July he was jailed on a requested charge of Criminal damage to property, according to the RCPD.Wilson is being held on a&nbsp; $75,000 bond.

Riley County teen accused of child sex crimes

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach explained why he has introduced a bill to allow for a different method of execution in Kansas in death penalty cases.

"Right now, Kansas has the death penalty on the books, but we don't have a means of actually achieving the execution of an inmate, when the time comes and all of the appeals have been exhausted," Kobach said. "My point to the legislators was, the state of Kansas is lying to the people of Kansas if it says we can carry out the death penalty right now."

The law as it sits now only allows for execution by lethal injection. The companies that made those drugs before don't want to do it now.

"Over the last few years, lethal injection has become very difficult, because the pharmaceutical companies, like Pfizer, have said, we're not going to allow our chemicals to be used in the death penalty, because they politically oppose it," Kobach said. "The European Union countries have said, we're not going to allow the chemicals to be exported to the United States for use in the death penalty. It's become very difficult to obtain them. Indeed, in South Carolina recently, they had to postpone two executions, because they still couldn't obtain the drugs."

The method being contemplated by the proposed legislation is&nbsp;nitrogen hypoxia. <a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/alabama-man-shook-violently-on-gurney-during-first-ever-nitrogen-gas-execution/ar-BB1hhPTe">The AP reported that</a> the latest person executed by this method, Alabama convicted murderer&nbsp;Kenneth Eugene Smith, who was killed by that state Jan. 25, convulsed in seizurelike spasms for at least two minutes of the 22-minute execution. Kansas has not executed anyone since 1965, even though the death penalty has been on the books again in Kansas since 1994.

"It doesn't really raise the issue, are we going to have the death penalty or not," Kobach said. "It's, if we're going to have the death penalty, let's be ready. We do have a couple cases that could be ready for execution to be carried out within the next year or two."

It is theoretically possible, if the bill made it out of committee and onto the floor, that the larger question of the death penalty could be raised by an amendment being made to the bill, as opening up the overall topic would likely be germane, depending on the ruling of those legislative bodies.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708797997373.jpeg" alt="Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach explained why he has introduced a bill to allow for a different method of execution in Kansas in death penalty cases."Right now, Kansas has the death penalty on the books, but we don't have a means of actually achieving the execution of an inmate, when the time comes and all of the appeals have been exhausted," Kobach said. "My point to the legislators was, the state of Kansas is lying to the people of Kansas if it says we can carry out the death penalty right now."The law as it sits now only allows for execution by lethal injection. The companies that made those drugs before don't want to do it now."Over the last few years, lethal injection has become very difficult, because the pharmaceutical companies, like Pfizer, have said, we're not going to allow our chemicals to be used in the death penalty, because they politically oppose it," Kobach said. "The European Union countries have said, we're not going to allow the chemicals to be exported to the United States for use in the death penalty. It's become very difficult to obtain them. Indeed, in South Carolina recently, they had to postpone two executions, because they still couldn't obtain the drugs."The method being contemplated by the proposed legislation is&nbsp;nitrogen hypoxia. <a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/alabama-man-shook-violently-on-gurney-during-first-ever-nitrogen-gas-execution/ar-BB1hhPTe">The AP reported that</a> the latest person executed by this method, Alabama convicted murderer&nbsp;Kenneth Eugene Smith, who was killed by that state Jan. 25, convulsed in seizurelike spasms for at least two minutes of the 22-minute execution. Kansas has not executed anyone since 1965, even though the death penalty has been on the books again in Kansas since 1994."It doesn't really raise the issue, are we going to have the death penalty or not," Kobach said. "It's, if we're going to have the death penalty, let's be ready. We do have a couple cases that could be ready for execution to be carried out within the next year or two."It is theoretically possible, if the bill made it out of committee and onto the floor, that the larger question of the death penalty could be raised by an amendment being made to the bill, as opening up the overall topic would likely be germane, depending on the ruling of those legislative bodies.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

AG explains death penalty method legislation

Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce economic development impact for 2023 was contained in a recent report to the Geary County Commission.

Mickey Fornaro-Dean, President / Economic Development Director for the Chamber, said there was about $115.2 million in investment, 368 jobs created, with an average wage in the $18-$20 per hour range, not including benefits. Payroll based on the $18 per hour amount, totaled $6.4 million.

The County contributed $140,000 and the City $131,000.

The Chamber also obtained an ad on the inside of the back page of Kansas magazine that will be taken by state officials to all trade shows and conventions.

There are multiple focus points for 2024 ranging from continued recruitment and retention of local businesses of all sizes to marketing efforts to various outlets and increasing investments.

On the topic of contributions, Fornaro-Dean noted that Eagle Railcar has contributed $50,000 to the welding program at Cloud County Community College.&nbsp;

Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce economic development impact for 2023 was contained in a recent report to the Geary County Commission.Mickey Fornaro-Dean, President / Economic Development Director for the Chamber, said there was about $115.2 million in investment, 368 jobs created, with an average wage in the $18-$20 per hour range, not including benefits. Payroll based on the $18 per hour amount, totaled $6.4 million.The County contributed $140,000 and the City $131,000.The Chamber also obtained an ad on the inside of the back page of Kansas magazine that will be taken by state officials to all trade shows and conventions.There are multiple focus points for 2024 ranging from continued recruitment and retention of local businesses of all sizes to marketing efforts to various outlets and increasing investments.On the topic of contributions, Fornaro-Dean noted that Eagle Railcar has contributed $50,000 to the welding program at Cloud County Community College.&nbsp;

Chamber makes an impact in 2023

Each week I hear and read of various comments and questions regarding the City and the way in which it operates. Naturally there are varying opinions and points of view. While I do respect that, the “real” answer may not be even close to some preconceived notions. Last week I wrote about the City Water service, so this week we will start there and see where we go.

This past week there were reports of “Dirty“ water. I even had a container of this water brought to the office for me to see. The water distribution system in Junction City is a mixture ranging from the older pipelines made of metal in the center portion of the City, to the new newer Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure pipe in the newest subdivisions. The older pipes and valves have been in the ground for a long time, and this is where the majority of the issues occur. During the last couple of years over $1.2 million per year has been spent on replacement of the older pipes and or valves in that portion of the City. This includes the pipelines that “break” often and then crews have to make repairs and water service is interrupted. These are the lines that are the oldest and simply it is time to address those problems. Another issue in that area is the mapping of the pipes in the area are not what they are in newer portions and upgrades are needed. I was out with the City Public Works crews last summer one evening and it was quick to see we have a “maze” in the system and there are spots with multiple valves and a lot of “guessing” is needed to figure out what goes where.

Last year a new underground water storage structure was built near the Spruce Street tower as part the Phase II Water Improvements. This tank replaced a very old structure. This spring the other older storage tank will be removed and replaced. In preparation, updates of the valves are being made along with some of the underground pipe. Unfortunately, this can cause issues with the “dirty” water as everything is being “stirred” up. When this occurs, City crews will address, and the lines are flushed, and they work to clean-up the problem. Each improvement yields a favorable result, but there are “pains” along the way.

Like every City I have ever worked in, the underground lines for water and sanitary sewer are often “Forgotten” until there are issues. Everyone has the desire to not increase rates and often improvements are not made until it is in essence “to late”. In the past 5 years Phase I and now Phase II improvements have been made at the Water Plant and in the storage structures at Spruce. The price tag on these improvements together is more than $25 million. That does not include the amount that has been spent on distribution lines improvements I mentioned above.

Last week, I wrote about the so-called “water” bill. Yes it includes water, but also has charges for sanitary sewer, storm water, and trash. The other day, I made a comment that the water rates in Junction City were cheaper than what customers of Geary Rural Water District #1 pay as the District purchases water from the City and then they have the costs of maters, testing, and distribution to pay as well. This person, who had both a City and a Water District bill, argued I was wrong. However, had did not include all the City services which are included.

Another comment I saw was on sewer charges and how they are calculated. Like most cites, residential sewer rates are based on the amount of water used for 3 winter months where water is basically used indoors and there is no watering of plants and grass. So, each April the amount for each residence is calculated and stays the same for the next 12 months. For those who are “new” residential customers, they are charged the “City” average until a water usage history is known. As I wrote last week, a good rule of thumb water usage is 50 gallons per person at this time of the year.

Allen Dinkel, City ManagerEach week I hear and read of various comments and questions regarding the City and the way in which it operates. Naturally there are varying opinions and points of view. While I do respect that, the “real” answer may not be even close to some preconceived notions. Last week I wrote about the City Water service, so this week we will start there and see where we go.This past week there were reports of “Dirty“ water. I even had a container of this water brought to the office for me to see. The water distribution system in Junction City is a mixture ranging from the older pipelines made of metal in the center portion of the City, to the new newer Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure pipe in the newest subdivisions. The older pipes and valves have been in the ground for a long time, and this is where the majority of the issues occur. During the last couple of years over $1.2 million per year has been spent on replacement of the older pipes and or valves in that portion of the City. This includes the pipelines that “break” often and then crews have to make repairs and water service is interrupted. These are the lines that are the oldest and simply it is time to address those problems. Another issue in that area is the mapping of the pipes in the area are not what they are in newer portions and upgrades are needed. I was out with the City Public Works crews last summer one evening and it was quick to see we have a “maze” in the system and there are spots with multiple valves and a lot of “guessing” is needed to figure out what goes where.Last year a new underground water storage structure was built near the Spruce Street tower as part the Phase II Water Improvements. This tank replaced a very old structure. This spring the other older storage tank will be removed and replaced. In preparation, updates of the valves are being made along with some of the underground pipe. Unfortunately, this can cause issues with the “dirty” water as everything is being “stirred” up. When this occurs, City crews will address, and the lines are flushed, and they work to clean-up the problem. Each improvement yields a favorable result, but there are “pains” along the way.Like every City I have ever worked in, the underground lines for water and sanitary sewer are often “Forgotten” until there are issues. Everyone has the desire to not increase rates and often improvements are not made until it is in essence “to late”. In the past 5 years Phase I and now Phase II improvements have been made at the Water Plant and in the storage structures at Spruce. The price tag on these improvements together is more than $25 million. That does not include the amount that has been spent on distribution lines improvements I mentioned above.Last week, I wrote about the so-called “water” bill. Yes it includes water, but also has charges for sanitary sewer, storm water, and trash. The other day, I made a comment that the water rates in Junction City were cheaper than what customers of Geary Rural Water District #1 pay as the District purchases water from the City and then they have the costs of maters, testing, and distribution to pay as well. This person, who had both a City and a Water District bill, argued I was wrong. However, had did not include all the City services which are included.Another comment I saw was on sewer charges and how they are calculated. Like most cites, residential sewer rates are based on the amount of water used for 3 winter months where water is basically used indoors and there is no watering of plants and grass. So, each April the amount for each residence is calculated and stays the same for the next 12 months. For those who are “new” residential customers, they are charged the “City” average until a water usage history is known. As I wrote last week, a good rule of thumb water usage is 50 gallons per person at this time of the year.

Allen Dinkel Provides his 515 Report

State wrestling concluded on Saturday, and Junction City had wrestlers place on both the boy's and girls' teams.

For the girl's team, Sophomore Juliana Villanueva placed second in the 115-pound weight class as she was defeated in the championship match.

On the boy's teams, Junction City had two wrestlers compete in the fifth-place match on Saturday. Griffin Bohanan won his match and placed fifth in the 175-pound weight class. Chris Coy finished in sixth place in the 215-pound weight class.

 Throughout the three-day state tournament, Junction City had ten wrestlers compete.

By Anthony GorgesJC PostState wrestling concluded on Saturday, and Junction City had wrestlers place on both the boy's and girls' teams.For the girl's team, Sophomore Juliana Villanueva placed second in the 115-pound weight class as she was defeated in the championship match.On the boy's teams, Junction City had two wrestlers compete in the fifth-place match on Saturday. Griffin Bohanan won his match and placed fifth in the 175-pound weight class. Chris Coy finished in sixth place in the 215-pound weight class. Throughout the three-day state tournament, Junction City had ten wrestlers compete.

Final results from state wrestling - Junction City had placers on boy's and girl's teams

Funding Will Bring High-Speed Internet, Clean Drinking Water and Modern Infrastructure to Rural Kansans

TOPEKA–U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Kansas State Director for Rural Development Christy Davis today announced that USDA is funding nine Kansas infrastructure projects. This $22.4 million investment will provide reliable high-speed internet access, clean water, and sanitary wastewater systems for rural communities.

“High-speed internet and reliable infrastructure make it possible for rural Kansans to live and work in the communities they love,” Davis said.

High-Speed Internet Under the Broadband Technical Assistance Program, USDA is providing $997,000 to help Kansas Department of Commerce deliver technical assistance to expand high-speed internet access for people in rural and Tribal communities. This funding will also develop and expand broadband cooperatives in rural areas.

· A $997,000 grant will help promote the expansion of high-speed internet in Rawlins, Kiowa, Gove, Kearny, Wilson and Linn counties. Kansas Department of Commerce will use funding to provide technical assistance to some of the most rural and distressed energy communities in Kansas. Specifically, the Kansas Office of Broadband Development (KOBD) will facilitate pre-engineering design and cost studies to determine broadband buildout costs and current barriers to deployment. KOBD, with Rural Utility Service staff, will then partner with local governments to understand and analyze the results of these studies, develop mitigation strategies, and identify next steps for effective broadband deployment, including use of federal and state funding sources.

Rural Water and Wastewater Infrastructure

Through its Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program, Rural Development is also providing $21.4 million to help rural Kansas communities provide clean drinking water and sanitary wastewater systems.

· A $1,725,000 loan will help complete improvements to the sewer collection system for the City of Wakefield. The project will upgrade the wastewater treatment system and construct a non-discharging lagoon with irrigation.

· A $2,284,000 loan and a $921,000 grant will help complete rehabilitation work on the water and wastewater systems for the City of Burden. The project includes repairing approximately 15,000 linear feet of existing collection lines and upgrading approximately 22,250 linear feet of main and service lines. Previous Rural Development funding of $30,000 for a Pre-Development Planning Grant was made in 2021.

· A $1,205,000 loan and a $1,127,000 grant will help construct a new non-discharging lagoon facility for the City of Hanston. Rural Development previously awarded a $20,177 Special Evaluation Assistance for Rural Communities and Households Grant and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment provided $400,000 in Principle Forgiveness on this project.

· A $2,925,000 loan will help refurbish the wastewater collection system for the City of Valley Falls. The project will include pipe repairs, pipe replacement, heavy pipe cleaning and manhole repairs and replacement.

· A $35,000 loan and a $1,126,000 grant will help complete the rehabilitation of the City of Vermillion's water distribution system. The project will install approximately 6,500 feet of distribution piping, including new fire hydrants, valves and other equipment.

· A $5,819,000 loan will help construct a new 300,000-gallon elevated storage tank and a new ion exchange nitrate removal treatment plant for the City of Belle Plaine. The project will also replace the water distribution system, the telemetry systems and automated meter reading system.

· A $1,772,000 loan will help complete repairs to the Fall River dam, upgrade the Little Bear elevated storage tank, expand the distribution system and provide sewer extension to the hospital in Neodesha. The city received prior funding from Rural Development in the form of a grant and two loans as follows: a grant of $492,000 awarded in 2021, two loans of $998,000 and $7,000,000 awarded in 2018.

· A $795,000 loan and a $1,691,000 grant will help Little Blue Natural Resources District develop a new water source for the rural water system. The project will consist of developing two municipal wells, purchasing a generator, installing 16.2 miles of transmission main, a booster pump station, installing a 50,000-gallon ground level storage tank, installing 400 meters, software, and a control system.

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, tribal and high-poverty areas. Visit the Rural Data Gateway to learn how and where these investments are impacting rural America.

USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. Under the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate-smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1562944742118.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Funding Will Bring High-Speed Internet, Clean Drinking Water and Modern Infrastructure to Rural Kansans</h2>SubmittedTOPEKA–U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Kansas State Director for Rural Development Christy Davis today announced that USDA is funding nine Kansas infrastructure projects. This $22.4 million investment will provide reliable high-speed internet access, clean water, and sanitary wastewater systems for rural communities.“High-speed internet and reliable infrastructure make it possible for rural Kansans to live and work in the communities they love,” Davis said.High-Speed Internet Under the Broadband Technical Assistance Program, USDA is providing $997,000 to help Kansas Department of Commerce deliver technical assistance to expand high-speed internet access for people in rural and Tribal communities. This funding will also develop and expand broadband cooperatives in rural areas.The details of this project are:· A $997,000 grant will help promote the expansion of high-speed internet in Rawlins, Kiowa, Gove, Kearny, Wilson and Linn counties. Kansas Department of Commerce will use funding to provide technical assistance to some of the most rural and distressed energy communities in Kansas. Specifically, the Kansas Office of Broadband Development (KOBD) will facilitate pre-engineering design and cost studies to determine broadband buildout costs and current barriers to deployment. KOBD, with Rural Utility Service staff, will then partner with local governments to understand and analyze the results of these studies, develop mitigation strategies, and identify next steps for effective broadband deployment, including use of federal and state funding sources.Rural Water and Wastewater InfrastructureThrough its Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program, Rural Development is also providing $21.4 million to help rural Kansas communities provide clean drinking water and sanitary wastewater systems.The details of these projects are:· A $1,725,000 loan will help complete improvements to the sewer collection system for the City of Wakefield. The project will upgrade the wastewater treatment system and construct a non-discharging lagoon with irrigation.· A $2,284,000 loan and a $921,000 grant will help complete rehabilitation work on the water and wastewater systems for the City of Burden. The project includes repairing approximately 15,000 linear feet of existing collection lines and upgrading approximately 22,250 linear feet of main and service lines. Previous Rural Development funding of $30,000 for a Pre-Development Planning Grant was made in 2021.· A $1,205,000 loan and a $1,127,000 grant will help construct a new non-discharging lagoon facility for the City of Hanston. Rural Development previously awarded a $20,177 Special Evaluation Assistance for Rural Communities and Households Grant and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment provided $400,000 in Principle Forgiveness on this project.· A $2,925,000 loan will help refurbish the wastewater collection system for the City of Valley Falls. The project will include pipe repairs, pipe replacement, heavy pipe cleaning and manhole repairs and replacement.· A $35,000 loan and a $1,126,000 grant will help complete the rehabilitation of the City of Vermillion's water distribution system. The project will install approximately 6,500 feet of distribution piping, including new fire hydrants, valves and other equipment.· A $5,819,000 loan will help construct a new 300,000-gallon elevated storage tank and a new ion exchange nitrate removal treatment plant for the City of Belle Plaine. The project will also replace the water distribution system, the telemetry systems and automated meter reading system.· A $1,772,000 loan will help complete repairs to the Fall River dam, upgrade the Little Bear elevated storage tank, expand the distribution system and provide sewer extension to the hospital in Neodesha. The city received prior funding from Rural Development in the form of a grant and two loans as follows: a grant of $492,000 awarded in 2021, two loans of $998,000 and $7,000,000 awarded in 2018.· A $795,000 loan and a $1,691,000 grant will help Little Blue Natural Resources District develop a new water source for the rural water system. The project will consist of developing two municipal wells, purchasing a generator, installing 16.2 miles of transmission main, a booster pump station, installing a 50,000-gallon ground level storage tank, installing 400 meters, software, and a control system.USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, tribal and high-poverty areas. Visit the Rural Data Gateway to learn how and where these investments are impacting rural America.USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. Under the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate-smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.

USDA announces $22.4 Million for rural infrastructure projects

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Dan Murray with NFIB-Kansas was not pleased that Gov. Laura Kelly's veto of the flat tax bill passed by the Republican-controlled Kansas Legislature was sustained.

"It's unfortunate that the House was not able to muster the votes," Murray said. "We were not very optimistic that it would achieve the votes on the Senate side. Nonetheless, back to the drawing board. We think that Kansas small business owners need and deserve a tax break. We're sitting on $3 billion or more in reserves."

Murray does see a path forward this session, though.

"I hope, on behalf of our members, that the legislature finds a way to get there with the governor," Murray said. "I think that probably, the governor's proposal, which she put forward, which includes many of the elements that the Republican legislature has championed, if there's an addition of some reductions in income tax rates, there might be a path forward to get something done still, yet this year."

The importance of lowering the rate is amplified by the way taxes work for the majority of small business owners.

"Most small business owners, 75%, are filing at the individual level," Murray said. "Reductions in the individual income tax directly benefits small business owners, which means they can redirect those savings back to their employees through higher wages and benefits. They can redirect those savings to capital improvements in their businesses."

The turnaround deadline for bills in non-exempt committees to pass one chamber or be dead for the session was Friday, but tax policy takes place in exempt committees, so for that purpose, turnaround just allows for more focus on that type of issue in the session's final weeks.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629113022641.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Dan Murray with NFIB-Kansas was not pleased that Gov. Laura Kelly's veto of the flat tax bill passed by the Republican-controlled Kansas Legislature was sustained."It's unfortunate that the House was not able to muster the votes," Murray said. "We were not very optimistic that it would achieve the votes on the Senate side. Nonetheless, back to the drawing board. We think that Kansas small business owners need and deserve a tax break. We're sitting on $3 billion or more in reserves."Murray does see a path forward this session, though."I hope, on behalf of our members, that the legislature finds a way to get there with the governor," Murray said. "I think that probably, the governor's proposal, which she put forward, which includes many of the elements that the Republican legislature has championed, if there's an addition of some reductions in income tax rates, there might be a path forward to get something done still, yet this year."The importance of lowering the rate is amplified by the way taxes work for the majority of small business owners."Most small business owners, 75%, are filing at the individual level," Murray said. "Reductions in the individual income tax directly benefits small business owners, which means they can redirect those savings back to their employees through higher wages and benefits. They can redirect those savings to capital improvements in their businesses."The turnaround deadline for bills in non-exempt committees to pass one chamber or be dead for the session was Friday, but tax policy takes place in exempt committees, so for that purpose, turnaround just allows for more focus on that type of issue in the session's final weeks.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Murray: Possible 'path forward' despite flat-tax veto

Registration for the annual Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce dinner closes on March 1st.

The Chamber has announced that the dinner is scheduled Thursday March 7th at the Geary County Convention Center. There will be a reception at 6 p.m. and the dinner will begin at 7 p.m. Awards will be presented during the evening.

Tickets are $60. Purchase them at jcacc.orgAnnual-dinner. Call 785-762-2632.

Steps of Growth and above have tickets included with their membership. Call the Chamber to find out if this applies to you.

Registration for the annual Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce dinner closes on March 1st.The Chamber has announced that the dinner is scheduled Thursday March 7th at the Geary County Convention Center. There will be a reception at 6 p.m. and the dinner will begin at 7 p.m. Awards will be presented during the evening.Tickets are $60. Purchase them at jcacc.orgAnnual-dinner. Call 785-762-2632.Steps of Growth and above have tickets included with their membership. Call the Chamber to find out if this applies to you.

Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner 

Postseason basketball has officially arrived. KSHSAA released the substate brackets for all classifications in Kansas. Substate play begins this Tuesday, Feb. 27,  an goes through Saturday, Mar. 2.&nbsp;

For the Junction City Lady Jays, they are the 16 seed and are on the road. They will play number one seed Wichita Heights on Tuesday night, Feb. 27, in Wichita at 6:00 p.m.&nbsp;

To view the entire girls 6A west bracket, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/ScoreCenter/Brackets/Basketball/6ASub-State.cfm?Activity=2&amp;Class=1&amp;WeekID=5730">here</a>.&nbsp;

For the Blue Jays, the boys are the two seed on the 6A west side of the bracket. Junction City will host number 15 seed Wichita East on Wednesday, Feb. 28, at Blue Jay Event Center at 6:00 p.m.

If the Blue Jays can get past East on Wednesday night, a potential re-match against rival Manhattan, or a matchup against Wichita South will determine who makes it to state.&nbsp;

To view the entire boys 6A west bracket, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/ScoreCenter/Brackets/Basketball/6ASub-State.cfm?Activity=2&amp;Class=1&amp;WeekID=5680">here</a>.&nbsp;

By Anthony GorgesJC PostPostseason basketball has officially arrived. KSHSAA released the substate brackets for all classifications in Kansas. Substate play begins this Tuesday, Feb. 27, an goes through Saturday, Mar. 2.&nbsp;Girls bracket<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708793200054.png" alt="The Lady Jays are grouped with number one seed, Wichita Heights, eight seed, Wichita Southeast, and nine seed, Garden City.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The Lady Jays are grouped with number one seed, Wichita Heights, eight seed, Wichita Southeast, and nine seed, Garden City.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>For the Junction City Lady Jays, they are the 16 seed and are on the road. They will play number one seed Wichita Heights on Tuesday night, Feb. 27, in Wichita at 6:00 p.m.&nbsp;To view the entire girls 6A west bracket, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/ScoreCenter/Brackets/Basketball/6ASub-State.cfm?Activity=2&amp;Class=1&amp;WeekID=5730">here</a>.&nbsp;Boys bracket<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708793410262.png" alt="The Blue Jays are the number two seed and will host the Blue Aces of Wichita East. Also grouped in their bracket is seven seed Manhattan and ten seed Wichita South." />
 <figcaption>The Blue Jays are the number two seed and will host the Blue Aces of Wichita East. Also grouped in their bracket is seven seed Manhattan and ten seed Wichita South.</figcaption>
 </figure>For the Blue Jays, the boys are the two seed on the 6A west side of the bracket. Junction City will host number 15 seed Wichita East on Wednesday, Feb. 28, at Blue Jay Event Center at 6:00 p.m.If the Blue Jays can get past East on Wednesday night, a potential re-match against rival Manhattan, or a matchup against Wichita South will determine who makes it to state.&nbsp;To view the entire boys 6A west bracket, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/ScoreCenter/Brackets/Basketball/6ASub-State.cfm?Activity=2&amp;Class=1&amp;WeekID=5680">here</a>.&nbsp;

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