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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 7: Kansas Wheat Harvest report

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

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

Be aware that fireworks can also frighten pets.

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

WEEE Entertainment carnival begins at 6 p.m.

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

Fireworks regulations and Freedom Fest

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 The residence was fully engulfed when firefighters and deputies arrived.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

KDWP special hunt application period now open  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Primary election information

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

The carnival will run Wednesday night through Sunday evening.

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

Freedom Fest preparations are under way

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kansas Wheat: Wheat harvest day 6

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

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

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

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

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

County Commission says yes to one percent increase in TGT

RILEY COUNTY —The investigation into the aggravated arson which occurred on June 13, at Walmart, 101 E Bluemont Avenue in Manhattan, is still an active investigation, according to a statement from the Riley County Police Department.

The RCPD has forwarded an affidavit to the Pottawatomie County District Attorney’s Office for review and consideration for prosecution.

The Riley County Police Department is leading the investigation into the incident while working closely with the Manhattan Fire Department.

Just before 5p.m. on June 13, the Manhattan Fire Department was dispatched to a fire reported at Walmart,&nbsp; 101 Bluemont Avenue, according to a media release.

Upon arrival, crews found people evacuating and light smoke showing at the doors. Employees were extinguishing the fire as crews arrived at the middle of the store where the fire occurred.&nbsp;

Crews ensured that extinguishment was complete by overhauling the area and taking smoldering material outside.

Just before 7p.m., Walmart was still closed while fire crews evacuate smoke from inside the building. No injuries were reported.&nbsp; There was considerable smoke damage.

Riley County Police Department, Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office, and Pottawatomie County EMS responded to assist.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751321189617.png" alt="Photo Manhattan Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo Manhattan Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —The investigation into the aggravated arson which occurred on June 13, at Walmart, 101 E Bluemont Avenue in Manhattan, is still an active investigation, according to a statement from the Riley County Police Department.The RCPD has forwarded an affidavit to the Pottawatomie County District Attorney’s Office for review and consideration for prosecution.The Riley County Police Department is leading the investigation into the incident while working closely with the Manhattan Fire Department.Just before 5p.m. on June 13, the Manhattan Fire Department was dispatched to a fire reported at Walmart,&nbsp; 101 Bluemont Avenue, according to a media release.Upon arrival, crews found people evacuating and light smoke showing at the doors. Employees were extinguishing the fire as crews arrived at the middle of the store where the fire occurred.&nbsp;Crews ensured that extinguishment was complete by overhauling the area and taking smoldering material outside.Just before 7p.m., Walmart was still closed while fire crews evacuate smoke from inside the building. No injuries were reported.&nbsp; There was considerable smoke damage.Riley County Police Department, Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office, and Pottawatomie County EMS responded to assist.

RCPD: Investigation of alleged arson fire at Walmart continues

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged violent crime in Manhattan.&nbsp;

Just before 3p.m. on Saturday, officers filed a report for criminal deprivation of property, domestic battery, kidnapping, harassment by telecom device, criminal threat and stalking, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. The alleged crimes involved a 34-year-old woman as the victim.

Police arrested 36-year-old&nbsp;Ivan Krdzic, 36, of Manhattan was arrested on requested charges of criminal deprivation of property, domestic battery, kidnapping, harassment by telecom device, criminal threat and stalking. Krdzic is being held on a $350,000 bond, according to the RCPD.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged violent crime in Manhattan.&nbsp; Just before 3p.m. on Saturday, officers filed a report for criminal deprivation of property, domestic battery, kidnapping, harassment by telecom device, criminal threat and stalking, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. The alleged crimes involved a 34-year-old woman as the victim.Police arrested 36-year-old&nbsp;Ivan Krdzic, 36, of Manhattan was arrested on requested charges of criminal deprivation of property, domestic battery, kidnapping, harassment by telecom device, criminal threat and stalking. Krdzic is being held on a $350,000 bond, according to the RCPD.

RCPD: Alleged stalker held on $350,000 bond

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating an alleged motorcycle theft in Manhattan have recovered the stolen vehicle.

Just after 3:30p.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for theft and criminal damage to property in the 900 block of Laramie Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 32-year-old man reported an unknown suspect damaged then took his 2009 Kawasaki Motorcycle. 

The motorcycle was recovered later in the day, according to the RCPD. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $6,000.

 Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating an alleged motorcycle theft in Manhattan have recovered the stolen vehicle.Just after 3:30p.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for theft and criminal damage to property in the 900 block of Laramie Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 32-year-old man reported an unknown suspect damaged then took his 2009 Kawasaki Motorcycle. The motorcycle was recovered later in the day, according to the RCPD. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $6,000. Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

Police recover damaged, stolen motorcycle

Equipment has been brought in for the carnival hosted by WEEE Entertainment at Freedom Fest in downtown Junction City. The activities begin Wednesday and continue through Sunday.

Freedom Fest officials provided information on the carnival. It will be open starting at the following times, weather permitting. Wednesday, July 2 at 6pm, Thursday, July 3 at 6pm, Friday, July 4 at noon, Saturday, July 5 at noon and Sunday, July 6 at 5pm The carnival will close between 10-11pm each night depending on the crowd. 

 There will be $33 per person unlimited ride wristbands available daily. The wristbands are only valid for the session purchased. Wednesday, July 2 at 6-10pm, Thursday, July 3 at 6-10pm, Friday, July 4 at noon-5pm or 5-10pm, Saturday, July 5 at noon-5pm or 5-10pm and Sunday, July 6 at 5-10pm. 

You can also purchase tickets. Single tickets are $4 each, 10 tickets for $35 or 30 tickets for $100. All rides are 1 ticket per person except the Freak Out, it is 2 tickets per person or a wristband plus 1 ticket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Equipment has been brought in for the carnival hosted by WEEE Entertainment at Freedom Fest in downtown Junction City. The activities begin Wednesday and continue through Sunday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751293820736.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Freedom Fest officials provided information on the carnival. It will be open starting at the following times, weather permitting. Wednesday, July 2 at 6pm, Thursday, July 3 at 6pm, Friday, July 4 at noon, Saturday, July 5 at noon and Sunday, July 6 at 5pm The carnival will close between 10-11pm each night depending on the crowd. There will be $33 per person unlimited ride wristbands available daily. The wristbands are only valid for the session purchased. Wednesday, July 2 at 6-10pm, Thursday, July 3 at 6-10pm, Friday, July 4 at noon-5pm or 5-10pm, Saturday, July 5 at noon-5pm or 5-10pm and Sunday, July 6 at 5-10pm. You can also purchase tickets. Single tickets are $4 each, 10 tickets for $35 or 30 tickets for $100. All rides are 1 ticket per person except the Freak Out, it is 2 tickets per person or a wristband plus 1 ticket.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751293846055.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Set up is underway for the WEEE Entertainment carnival

TOPEKA, Kan. – The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) has released the&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansas.gov%2Fkbi%2Fstats%2Fdocs%2Fpdf%2F2024%2520Crime%2520Index.pdf%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000197c0d19b24-eac627a1-be45-4447-9ece-c76d9abf86c2-000000/_H887gkqQyDEahi8eiUvJ_HxHlQdjkUtSUZ3FJ8x7IM=411" target="_blank">2024 Kansas Crime Index Report</a>.&nbsp;The report compiles crime statistics reported to the KBI by state and local law enforcement agencies throughout Kansas.&nbsp;

The 2024 Kansas Crime Index Report indicated that violent crime in Kansas decreased by 6.7% from 2023. A total of 12,643 crimes were reported for the offenses of murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault and battery. With this decline, violent crime in the state was equal to the 10-year average.&nbsp;

In 2024, overall property crimes decreased 12.9% from 2023. In 2024, there were 43,636 theft offenses, which accounted for 75.0% of total property crimes reported. There were 14,525 burglary and motor vehicle thefts, representing the remaining 25% of property crimes. Property crimes nationwide are assumed to be underreported to law enforcement.&nbsp;

Find the full&nbsp;2024 Kansas Crime Index report, and previous year’s statistics at:&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansas.gov%2Fkbi%2Fstats%2Fstats_crime.shtml%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000197c0d19b24-eac627a1-be45-4447-9ece-c76d9abf86c2-000000/Eo23M-0_xDV6oE5oljUBIOJDX7u6iMHFrmx1w_nYW0E=411" target="_blank">KBI - Kansas Bureau of Investigation - Statistics - Crime Statistics</a>.&nbsp;

NOTE:&nbsp;Data from the Kansas Crime Index report is derived from standard offense and arrest reports submitted to the Kansas Incident Based Reporting System (KIBRS) by local law&nbsp;enforcement agencies across Kansas. It is dependent on victims reporting crimes. The report is compiled to provide a historical assessment and snapshot of crime trends. It is often not possible to draw further interpretations or conclusions from the data. The KBI cautions against using data to make direct comparisons between jurisdictions. Often these comparisons are not valid as the factors influencing crime vary widely between communities.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751291598722.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION&nbsp;TOPEKA, Kan. – The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) has released the&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansas.gov%2Fkbi%2Fstats%2Fdocs%2Fpdf%2F2024%2520Crime%2520Index.pdf%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000197c0d19b24-eac627a1-be45-4447-9ece-c76d9abf86c2-000000/_H887gkqQyDEahi8eiUvJ_HxHlQdjkUtSUZ3FJ8x7IM=411" target="_blank">2024 Kansas Crime Index Report</a>.&nbsp;The report compiles crime statistics reported to the KBI by state and local law enforcement agencies throughout Kansas.&nbsp;<h2>Violent crime analysis&nbsp;</h2>The 2024 Kansas Crime Index Report indicated that violent crime in Kansas decreased by 6.7% from 2023. A total of 12,643 crimes were reported for the offenses of murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault and battery. With this decline, violent crime in the state was equal to the 10-year average.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751290763608.png" alt="Violent Crimes - Kansas Bureau of Investigation&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Violent Crimes - Kansas Bureau of Investigation&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Property crime analysis&nbsp;</h2>In 2024, overall property crimes decreased 12.9% from 2023. In 2024, there were 43,636 theft offenses, which accounted for 75.0% of total property crimes reported. There were 14,525 burglary and motor vehicle thefts, representing the remaining 25% of property crimes. Property crimes nationwide are assumed to be underreported to law enforcement.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751290820519.png" alt="2024-chart-final-final_original.png" />
 <figcaption>2024-chart-final-final_original.png</figcaption>
 </figure>Find the full&nbsp;2024 Kansas Crime Index report, and previous year’s statistics at:&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansas.gov%2Fkbi%2Fstats%2Fstats_crime.shtml%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000197c0d19b24-eac627a1-be45-4447-9ece-c76d9abf86c2-000000/Eo23M-0_xDV6oE5oljUBIOJDX7u6iMHFrmx1w_nYW0E=411" target="_blank">KBI - Kansas Bureau of Investigation - Statistics - Crime Statistics</a>.&nbsp;NOTE:&nbsp;Data from the Kansas Crime Index report is derived from standard offense and arrest reports submitted to the Kansas Incident Based Reporting System (KIBRS) by local law&nbsp;enforcement agencies across Kansas. It is dependent on victims reporting crimes. The report is compiled to provide a historical assessment and snapshot of crime trends. It is often not possible to draw further interpretations or conclusions from the data. The KBI cautions against using data to make direct comparisons between jurisdictions. Often these comparisons are not valid as the factors influencing crime vary widely between communities.&nbsp;

KBI releases 2024 crime stats 

Downtown JC Happenings | June 30 - July 6, 2025 

Freedom Fest 2025 is running from July 2nd-6th!This annual Independence Day tradition brings families, friends, and neighbors together for a full day of fun—featuring live music, food trucks, kids’ activities, carnival rides and games, and, of course, a spectacular fireworks display. <a href="https://freedomfestjc.com/">Click here to see the full list of activities.</a>

<a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/event/freedom-fest/">Freedom on Wheels</a> is happening Saturday, July 5th from 9:30 to 11AM at the Junction City Main Street Market! Come on out to North Washington Street on July 5 (9:30am–11am) for a fun ride down Main Street! This event is open to all non-motorized wheeled vehicles, including bicycles, tricycles, scooters, strollers, skates, wheelchairs, and wagons.

Helmets are highly recommended for all participants, and thanks to the generous contribution of Heath Welch at State Farm Insurance, some new helmets will be provided for free! 

This year, don’t forget to wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet—we’re turning up the summer fun with sprinklers for kids to run through! Plus, stop by our vehicle decorating station to deck out your ride in red, white, and blue before you roll down the street in style. Heart Breakers Beauty Parlor will also have temporary tattoos for kids! 

DID SOMEONE SAY FREE FREEDOM FEST CARNIVAL BRACELETS?! Thanks to the heartfelt support of the Fraternal Orders of the Eagles in Junction City, Freedom Fest carnival wristbands will be given away through a drawing. Come to the info booth, fill out a free drawing entry ticket (one per child) and enter into a drawing to win a free carnival wristband! 

Bring the whole family and celebrate freedom with a splash of fun and creativity.

<a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/flag-fundraiser/">Flags of Geary County</a>: “Proudly United, Community Ignited” Junction City Main Street invites you to take part in the Flag Project supporting multiple local organizations. For a small donation, Main Street will place and remove a leased 3x5 ft U.S. flag on a 10 ft pole in front of your home or business on six major holidays throughout the year. Flags will not be displayed in the event of rain.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/16j2w8yJCX/">Kids Day at the Geary Community Farmers Market </a>

Make Thursday evenings a family tradition. 

● Free “Market Money” for kids to buy fruits and veggies 

● Weekly activities: seed planting, games, cooking demos, and scavenger hunts 

● No sign-up needed—stop by the info booth to join in 

● Meet local farmers and enjoy the freshest produce 

● <a href="https://www.gemstudiosjc.com/product/brandy-s-art-camp-2025/347?cs=true&amp;cst=custom">GEM Studios Summer Art Camp</a> launched June 9 with themed weekly sessions like All About Me, Bugs &amp; Animals, and Ocean Week. No classes this week for 4th of July, but will resume next week! Sign-up now!

● Activated Arts offers six dance classes and four theater workshops, from tap to clowning and creative drama. <a href="https://activatejc.com/summer#page-1">Click here for more info. </a>

The Junction City Arts Council is hosting two Mini Summer Camps: 

● <a href="https://junction-city-arts-council.checkoutpage.com/jcac-mini-art-camp-k-2?fbclid=IwY2xjawLGTRhleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF6UnVOZlp5SVZqM05LNzZMAR4aaIKxapwsPYyqK-u6r8n8-xfveKzGWxUt4KmDCGuGJGRoPffa3p-VjtKp4A_aem_7IqrJDn3KcrfqXRJT1ZJfA">July 14–15 for K–2nd grade </a>

● <a href="https://junction-city-arts-council.checkoutpage.com/jcac-mini-art-camp-3rd-5th?fbclid=IwY2xjawLKiRlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF6UnVOZlp5SVZqM05LNzZMAR4MXWENJ8aTYEM7Cam6EwxbZxVnda-Iw02_P-Q9BO2hSAFqC-QcG6FWreEitA_aem_qRbadZPKss14TDsQhnR_ZA">July 16–17 for 3rd–5th grade</a>

Spots are limited, so sign your kids up now and get those creative juices flowing! 

● <a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/1Fpor9omU2/">Movies in the Park</a> – hosted by the Junction City Police Department, will feature Sonic 3 on Friday, July 18th at 8:45 PM at Heritage Park. Free popcorn and water will be provided.

GEM Studios is offering fun and creative paint classes this weekend: 

● Kids Hot Dog and Burger: Saturday, July 5th at 10AM 

While you're enjoying all the excitement of the carnival, don’t forget to take a stroll through our beautiful downtown! Many of our small businesses will be open and ready to welcome you with great finds, friendly faces, and a little extra charm. Your support- whether it’s grabbing a coffee, picking up a gift, or just stopping in to say hello—goes a long way in helping our local shops thrive during busy event weekends. Let’s keep the fun going by showing love to the heart of our community!

<a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/">Follow Junction City Main Street</a> for event updates and more. Support local. Stay connected. Love where you live.

Downtown JC Happenings | June 30 - July 6, 2025 Freedom Fest 2025 is running from July 2nd-6th!This annual Independence Day tradition brings families, friends, and neighbors together for a full day of fun—featuring live music, food trucks, kids’ activities, carnival rides and games, and, of course, a spectacular fireworks display. <a href="https://freedomfestjc.com/">Click here to see the full list of activities.</a><a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/event/freedom-fest/">Freedom on Wheels</a> is happening Saturday, July 5th from 9:30 to 11AM at the Junction City Main Street Market! Come on out to North Washington Street on July 5 (9:30am–11am) for a fun ride down Main Street! This event is open to all non-motorized wheeled vehicles, including bicycles, tricycles, scooters, strollers, skates, wheelchairs, and wagons.Helmets are highly recommended for all participants, and thanks to the generous contribution of Heath Welch at State Farm Insurance, some new helmets will be provided for free! This year, don’t forget to wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet—we’re turning up the summer fun with sprinklers for kids to run through! Plus, stop by our vehicle decorating station to deck out your ride in red, white, and blue before you roll down the street in style. Heart Breakers Beauty Parlor will also have temporary tattoos for kids! DID SOMEONE SAY FREE FREEDOM FEST CARNIVAL BRACELETS?! Thanks to the heartfelt support of the Fraternal Orders of the Eagles in Junction City, Freedom Fest carnival wristbands will be given away through a drawing. Come to the info booth, fill out a free drawing entry ticket (one per child) and enter into a drawing to win a free carnival wristband! Bring the whole family and celebrate freedom with a splash of fun and creativity.<a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/flag-fundraiser/">Flags of Geary County</a>: “Proudly United, Community Ignited” Junction City Main Street invites you to take part in the Flag Project supporting multiple local organizations. For a small donation, Main Street will place and remove a leased 3x5 ft U.S. flag on a 10 ft pole in front of your home or business on six major holidays throughout the year. Flags will not be displayed in the event of rain.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/16j2w8yJCX/">Kids Day at the Geary Community Farmers Market </a>Every Thursday, June-July | 4–7 PM Make Thursday evenings a family tradition. ● Free “Market Money” for kids to buy fruits and veggies ● Weekly activities: seed planting, games, cooking demos, and scavenger hunts ● No sign-up needed—stop by the info booth to join in ● Meet local farmers and enjoy the freshest produce Summer Youth Programs ● <a href="https://www.gemstudiosjc.com/product/brandy-s-art-camp-2025/347?cs=true&amp;cst=custom">GEM Studios Summer Art Camp</a> launched June 9 with themed weekly sessions like All About Me, Bugs &amp; Animals, and Ocean Week. No classes this week for 4th of July, but will resume next week! Sign-up now! ● Activated Arts offers six dance classes and four theater workshops, from tap to clowning and creative drama. <a href="https://activatejc.com/summer#page-1">Click here for more info. </a>The Junction City Arts Council is hosting two Mini Summer Camps: ● <a href="https://junction-city-arts-council.checkoutpage.com/jcac-mini-art-camp-k-2?fbclid=IwY2xjawLGTRhleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF6UnVOZlp5SVZqM05LNzZMAR4aaIKxapwsPYyqK-u6r8n8-xfveKzGWxUt4KmDCGuGJGRoPffa3p-VjtKp4A_aem_7IqrJDn3KcrfqXRJT1ZJfA">July 14–15 for K–2nd grade </a>● <a href="https://junction-city-arts-council.checkoutpage.com/jcac-mini-art-camp-3rd-5th?fbclid=IwY2xjawLKiRlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF6UnVOZlp5SVZqM05LNzZMAR4MXWENJ8aTYEM7Cam6EwxbZxVnda-Iw02_P-Q9BO2hSAFqC-QcG6FWreEitA_aem_qRbadZPKss14TDsQhnR_ZA">July 16–17 for 3rd–5th grade</a> Spots are limited, so sign your kids up now and get those creative juices flowing! Upcoming Events: ● <a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/1Fpor9omU2/">Movies in the Park</a> – hosted by the Junction City Police Department, will feature Sonic 3 on Friday, July 18th at 8:45 PM at Heritage Park. Free popcorn and water will be provided. GEM Studios is offering fun and creative paint classes this weekend: ● Kids Hot Dog and Burger: Saturday, July 5th at 10AM While you're enjoying all the excitement of the carnival, don’t forget to take a stroll through our beautiful downtown! Many of our small businesses will be open and ready to welcome you with great finds, friendly faces, and a little extra charm. Your support- whether it’s grabbing a coffee, picking up a gift, or just stopping in to say hello—goes a long way in helping our local shops thrive during busy event weekends. Let’s keep the fun going by showing love to the heart of our community!<a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/">Follow Junction City Main Street</a> for event updates and more. Support local. Stay connected. Love where you live.

Main Street Monday | Downtown JC Happenings | June 30 - July 6, 2025

FORT RILEY, Kansas – The 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley celebrated 108 years of the Big Red One, and 250 years of the United States Army, during Victory Week 2025.

Victory Week is a tradition of sportsmanship, competition, and camaraderie to celebrate the First Division. Soldiers competed in a variety of sporting events, including flag football, volleyball, basketball, soccer, 3/5/10k walk/run, innovation challenge, archery and trap shoot, cycling, functional fitness, combatives, tug of war, spouse kickball tournament, and more throughout the week. The brigade with the most points from across these events takes home the coveted Victory Cup trophy.

More than 2,000 Soldiers and Family members participated in events, contributing to their units’ overall score and boosting morale. “Victory Week is a great opportunity for Soldiers to get out there and have some fun and compete against the other units,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Jason Joseph, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion command sergeant major, 1st Infantry Division Artillery. He highlighted that HHBn took first place in three events throughout the week.

The 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team captured the Victory Cup for 2025, with the brigade command team, Col. Tom Smith and Command Sgt. Maj. Jake Huckleby accepting the trophy.

“Every day is a great day to be a Big Red One Soldier, but especially today,” said Huckleby, who praised his teams’ hard work, telling them before each event, “Stay savage; prepare for battle!”

One of the cornerstone events of Victory Week is the Commanders vs. Command Sergeants Major softball game. This year’s game was held at Rathert Stadium in Junction City, highlighting the close ties between Fort Riley and the surrounding community, with the Commanders winning 26-11.

FORT RILEY, Kansas – The 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley celebrated 108 years of the Big Red One, and 250 years of the United States Army, during Victory Week 2025.Victory Week is a tradition of sportsmanship, competition, and camaraderie to celebrate the First Division. Soldiers competed in a variety of sporting events, including flag football, volleyball, basketball, soccer, 3/5/10k walk/run, innovation challenge, archery and trap shoot, cycling, functional fitness, combatives, tug of war, spouse kickball tournament, and more throughout the week. The brigade with the most points from across these events takes home the coveted Victory Cup trophy.More than 2,000 Soldiers and Family members participated in events, contributing to their units’ overall score and boosting morale. “Victory Week is a great opportunity for Soldiers to get out there and have some fun and compete against the other units,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Jason Joseph, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion command sergeant major, 1st Infantry Division Artillery. He highlighted that HHBn took first place in three events throughout the week.The 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team captured the Victory Cup for 2025, with the brigade command team, Col. Tom Smith and Command Sgt. Maj. Jake Huckleby accepting the trophy.“Every day is a great day to be a Big Red One Soldier, but especially today,” said Huckleby, who praised his teams’ hard work, telling them before each event, “Stay savage; prepare for battle!”One of the cornerstone events of Victory Week is the Commanders vs. Command Sergeants Major softball game. This year’s game was held at Rathert Stadium in Junction City, highlighting the close ties between Fort Riley and the surrounding community, with the Commanders winning 26-11.

Victory Week celebrates the 1st Infantry Division and the U.S. Army

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 2p.m. Friday in Pottawatomie County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Toyota Corolla driven by Zachary Lynn&nbsp;Stinson, 43, Hutchinson, was southbound on Kansas 13 at Cedar Creek Road. The car entered into a curve, traveled left of center and encountered a northbound car. The driver corrected back into the southbound lane and lost control of the car. The car traveled onto the east shoulder, struck two guard rails and a tree.

EMS transported&nbsp;Stinson to Stormont Vail. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 2p.m. Friday in Pottawatomie County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Toyota Corolla driven by Zachary Lynn&nbsp;Stinson, 43, Hutchinson, was southbound on Kansas 13 at Cedar Creek Road. The car entered into a curve, traveled left of center and encountered a northbound car. The driver corrected back into the southbound lane and lost control of the car. The car traveled onto the east shoulder, struck two guard rails and a tree.EMS transported&nbsp;Stinson to Stormont Vail. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after car strikes guard rails, tree

Beginning Sunday evening there will be street closures in downtown Junction City in time for the annual Freedom Fest celebration.

Ray Ibarra, City Public Works Director, said they include:

--Jefferson from near the middle of the block by Marcos Pizza to near the middle of the block by the Junction City Fire Department.

--7th Street from Jefferson for about half of the block to near the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library

--5th Street from Washington to Jefferson

The carnival for Freedom Fest arrives on Sunday with set up Monday and Tuesday. The concert stage arrives at 1 p.m. Monday.

Freedom Fest runs Wednesday July 2 to Sunday July 6.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostBeginning Sunday evening there will be street closures in downtown Junction City in time for the annual Freedom Fest celebration.Ray Ibarra, City Public Works Director, said they include:--6th Street from Washington to Adams--Jefferson from near the middle of the block by Marcos Pizza to near the middle of the block by the Junction City Fire Department.--7th Street from Jefferson for about half of the block to near the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library--5th Street from Washington to Jefferson--Washingtnon from 5th to 6th&nbsp;The carnival for Freedom Fest arrives on Sunday with set up Monday and Tuesday. The concert stage arrives at 1 p.m. Monday.Freedom Fest runs Wednesday July 2 to Sunday July 6.

Local