Pilot program Nov. 7-9 open to Kansas resident applicants for undergraduate school

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/grieving-moms-plea-to-kansas-lawmakers-do-something-this-epidemic-is-killing-our-kids/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents unanimously voted Tuesday to create a three-day window during November in which public colleges and universities in the state would waive undergraduate application fees for Kansas residents regardless of a person’s income or age.

The pilot project scheduled for Nov. 7-9, 2023, would attempt to address the 11.5 percentage point decline between 2014 and 2021 in the rate of Kansas high school graduates who enrolled within one year at any of more than 30 public institutions under jurisdiction of the Board of Regents.

The free application initiative, modeled after a similar effort in Colorado, would be open to Kansas residents interested in enrolling as undergraduate students. Eligible persons would include first-time freshmen, transfer students, returning students and those seeking a second bachelor’s degree. Application fees in Kansas ranged from $25 to $40.

The Board of Regents’ pilot project wouldn’t be available to nonresident applicants nor to individuals applying to graduate school.

The project would cost state universities about $1 million annually in application fee revenue typically spent on admissions staff and enrollment management operations. University of Kansas, Wichita State University and Kansas State University would surrender more than two-thirds of that revenue total. Pittsburg State University doesn’t have an undergraduate application fee. Community colleges in Kansas don’t have a general application fee, but technical colleges do.

The pilot would likely produce more “soft” applications from people who don’t actually enroll at a public institution in Kansas, but advocates believe it could draw more students into a higher education system struggling to sustain enrollment numbers.

“What are some of the things we can do right now to remove barriers and kind of better position ourselves to have a more robust high school-to-college pipeline?” said Daniel Archer, vice president for academic affairs with the Board of Regents.

Archer said evidence of the state’s challenge could be found in statistics comparing Kansas public college enrollment in 2014 and 2021, which was during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said 58.9% of Kansas high school graduates enrolled within one year at a Kansas public college or university in 2014. That percentage fell to 43.7% in 2021.

Comparable statistics along racial and ethnic lines in Kansas indicated Hispanic enrollment in that period plummeted from 50% to 31.9%, he said. Black enrollment crashed over those seven years from 51.5% to 32.7%, while white enrollment slid from 56.8% to 48.1%.

“Really critical, I think, to emphasize that we’re going to look at the total number of applicants as well as the total number of applicants by race and ethnicity,” Archer said.

Cynthia Lane, a member of the Board of Regents and a retired Kansas public school administrator, said the higher education board should measure the pilot project in terms of how application fees influenced prospective students. She said the experiment should be useful in development of recruiting strategies for the state’s public universities.

The precise window established by the Board of Regents would be 12 a.m. Nov. 7 to 11:59 p.m. Nov. 9. Applications could be filled out in advance, but would need to be submitted during the three-day window.

Five years ago, Colorado started an Apply Free day for the state’s residents. It began with a one-day fee holiday in October. Marketing was conducted in English and Spanish. Residents of that state were given the opportunity to apply without charge to undergraduate programs at all state public and some private Colorado colleges and universities.

In 2020, the third year of the Colorado program, 56,800 applications were filed in a single day. That amounted to a 28% increase in interest compared to the program’s first year. In Colorado, 44% of the third-year applications were submitted by students of color and 28% by first-generation students. Colorado moved to a three-day window in 2021 to better deal with the avalanche of applications.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689701157243.png" alt=" Kansas Board of Regents member Cindy Lane endorsed creation of a three-day window in November for public colleges and universities in Kansas to waive application fees for Kansas residents seeking to enroll as undergraduate students. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Kansas Board of Regents member Cindy Lane endorsed creation of a three-day window in November for public colleges and universities in Kansas to waive application fees for Kansas residents seeking to enroll as undergraduate students. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Pilot program Nov. 7-9 open to Kansas resident applicants for undergraduate school</h2>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/grieving-moms-plea-to-kansas-lawmakers-do-something-this-epidemic-is-killing-our-kids/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents unanimously voted Tuesday to create a three-day window during November in which public colleges and universities in the state would waive undergraduate application fees for Kansas residents regardless of a person’s income or age.The pilot project scheduled for Nov. 7-9, 2023, would attempt to address the 11.5 percentage point decline between 2014 and 2021 in the rate of Kansas high school graduates who enrolled within one year at any of more than 30 public institutions under jurisdiction of the Board of Regents.The free application initiative, modeled after a similar effort in Colorado, would be open to Kansas residents interested in enrolling as undergraduate students. Eligible persons would include first-time freshmen, transfer students, returning students and those seeking a second bachelor’s degree. Application fees in Kansas ranged from $25 to $40.The Board of Regents’ pilot project wouldn’t be available to nonresident applicants nor to individuals applying to graduate school.The project would cost state universities about $1 million annually in application fee revenue typically spent on admissions staff and enrollment management operations. University of Kansas, Wichita State University and Kansas State University would surrender more than two-thirds of that revenue total. Pittsburg State University doesn’t have an undergraduate application fee. Community colleges in Kansas don’t have a general application fee, but technical colleges do.The pilot would likely produce more “soft” applications from people who don’t actually enroll at a public institution in Kansas, but advocates believe it could draw more students into a higher education system struggling to sustain enrollment numbers.“What are some of the things we can do right now to remove barriers and kind of better position ourselves to have a more robust high school-to-college pipeline?” said Daniel Archer, vice president for academic affairs with the Board of Regents.Archer said evidence of the state’s challenge could be found in statistics comparing Kansas public college enrollment in 2014 and 2021, which was during the COVID-19 pandemic.He said 58.9% of Kansas high school graduates enrolled within one year at a Kansas public college or university in 2014. That percentage fell to 43.7% in 2021.Comparable statistics along racial and ethnic lines in Kansas indicated Hispanic enrollment in that period plummeted from 50% to 31.9%, he said. Black enrollment crashed over those seven years from 51.5% to 32.7%, while white enrollment slid from 56.8% to 48.1%.“Really critical, I think, to emphasize that we’re going to look at the total number of applicants as well as the total number of applicants by race and ethnicity,” Archer said.Cynthia Lane, a member of the Board of Regents and a retired Kansas public school administrator, said the higher education board should measure the pilot project in terms of how application fees influenced prospective students. She said the experiment should be useful in development of recruiting strategies for the state’s public universities.The precise window established by the Board of Regents would be 12 a.m. Nov. 7 to 11:59 p.m. Nov. 9. Applications could be filled out in advance, but would need to be submitted during the three-day window.Five years ago, Colorado started an Apply Free day for the state’s residents. It began with a one-day fee holiday in October. Marketing was conducted in English and Spanish. Residents of that state were given the opportunity to apply without charge to undergraduate programs at all state public and some private Colorado colleges and universities.In 2020, the third year of the Colorado program, 56,800 applications were filed in a single day. That amounted to a 28% increase in interest compared to the program’s first year. In Colorado, 44% of the third-year applications were submitted by students of color and 28% by first-generation students. Colorado moved to a three-day window in 2021 to better deal with the avalanche of applications.

Kan. Board of Regents creates 3-day free application option at public universities, colleges

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced that since its launch in July 2022, the 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline connects notably more Kansans to mental health resources in the Lifeline’s first full year of operation. In its first year, 9-8-8 saw a 73% increase in contacts compared to the year before the implementation of the three-digit dialing code.&nbsp;&nbsp;

July 16 marked the official&nbsp;first&nbsp;anniversary of the 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline number, which connects&nbsp;everyone in the U.S. to a national network of local and state-funded crisis centers available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to provide free and confidential support with trained crisis counselors.&nbsp;

“Investing in&nbsp;mental health&nbsp;resources like 9-8-8&nbsp;is&nbsp;critical to&nbsp;saving the lives of Kansans in crisis,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“These services&nbsp;make a&nbsp;positive&nbsp;impact&nbsp;by&nbsp;knocking&nbsp;down barriers and&nbsp;stigmas&nbsp;surrounding&nbsp;mental health&nbsp;and&nbsp;connecting&nbsp;people to&nbsp;necessary mental health care&nbsp;professionals and resources.”&nbsp;

National&nbsp;usage&nbsp;is&nbsp;rising&nbsp;as 9-8-8&nbsp;received&nbsp;more than 4 million&nbsp;contacts&nbsp;since&nbsp;its launch last July, according to data from Vibrant Emotional Health, the organization appointed by the federal government to oversee the line. In Kansas, that number is&nbsp;approximately 24,000&nbsp;through June this year —&nbsp;a&nbsp;73%&nbsp;increase over&nbsp;the 10-digit hotline number&nbsp;that received 13,867&nbsp;over the same period the previous year&nbsp;(July-June).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Kelly administration’s investment in 9-8-8 has&nbsp;improved&nbsp;in-state answer rates, making Kansas one of only 12 states nationally&nbsp;to maintain a rate of 90% or better consistently. According to data from Vibrant, 9-8-8 centers in Kansas have&nbsp;held&nbsp;an in-state call-answer rate of 88% to 92% month-over-month amid increased call volume. Just a few years ago, Kansas answered about 60% of National Suicide Prevention Line (NSPL) calls in-state, with many calls rolling over to national backup centers.&nbsp;

Kansas has also performed better than its national peers on average wait times (also known as speed to answer). That rate in Kansas is 21 seconds, outpacing the national average of 35 seconds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The efforts of our&nbsp;state&nbsp;leadership and strategic&nbsp;community&nbsp;partners&nbsp;have&nbsp;led to the&nbsp;successful&nbsp;implementation of&nbsp;an exceptional&nbsp;mental health resource that is meeting the needs of thousands of Kansans trying to manage crisis in their daily lives,”&nbsp;KDADS Secretary Laura&nbsp;Howard said. “I think the increase in the number of contacts we’ve seen in the last year bears that out,&nbsp;and we can proudly say that every call, text,&nbsp;or chat we receive has the potential to be life-changing or&nbsp;lifesaving.”&nbsp;

Kansas Suicide Prevention Headquarters (KSPHQ) reports receiving an average of 1,230 calls each month from July 2022-June2023. An average of 15 calls, or 1.2%, per month resulted in emergency dispatch (response by emergency services for imminent risk of harm generally — though not always —with the caller’s permission). KSPHQ focuses on working collaboratively with callers to avoid emergency intervention and resolve crises during the initial contact and is equipped to connect callers to emergency service alternatives like mobile response teams and crisis-receiving facilities where available.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"KSPHQ has been so honored to provide lifesaving services throughout Kansas during this first year of 9-8-8,”&nbsp;said Monica Kurz, vp of policy &amp; prevention, KSPHQ. “The success we’ve had in delivering timely and high-quality crisis mental health support to our neighbors is a testament to the passion and dedication of our counselors and staff as well as the state's investment in crisis mental health services."&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657909299467.png" alt="98" />
 <figcaption>98</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced that since its launch in July 2022, the 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline connects notably more Kansans to mental health resources in the Lifeline’s first full year of operation. In its first year, 9-8-8 saw a 73% increase in contacts compared to the year before the implementation of the three-digit dialing code.&nbsp;&nbsp;July 16 marked the official&nbsp;first&nbsp;anniversary of the 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline number, which connects&nbsp;everyone in the U.S. to a national network of local and state-funded crisis centers available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to provide free and confidential support with trained crisis counselors.&nbsp;“Investing in&nbsp;mental health&nbsp;resources like 9-8-8&nbsp;is&nbsp;critical to&nbsp;saving the lives of Kansans in crisis,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“These services&nbsp;make a&nbsp;positive&nbsp;impact&nbsp;by&nbsp;knocking&nbsp;down barriers and&nbsp;stigmas&nbsp;surrounding&nbsp;mental health&nbsp;and&nbsp;connecting&nbsp;people to&nbsp;necessary mental health care&nbsp;professionals and resources.”&nbsp;National&nbsp;usage&nbsp;is&nbsp;rising&nbsp;as 9-8-8&nbsp;received&nbsp;more than 4 million&nbsp;contacts&nbsp;since&nbsp;its launch last July, according to data from Vibrant Emotional Health, the organization appointed by the federal government to oversee the line. In Kansas, that number is&nbsp;approximately 24,000&nbsp;through June this year —&nbsp;a&nbsp;73%&nbsp;increase over&nbsp;the 10-digit hotline number&nbsp;that received 13,867&nbsp;over the same period the previous year&nbsp;(July-June).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Kelly administration’s investment in 9-8-8 has&nbsp;improved&nbsp;in-state answer rates, making Kansas one of only 12 states nationally&nbsp;to maintain a rate of 90% or better consistently. According to data from Vibrant, 9-8-8 centers in Kansas have&nbsp;held&nbsp;an in-state call-answer rate of 88% to 92% month-over-month amid increased call volume. Just a few years ago, Kansas answered about 60% of National Suicide Prevention Line (NSPL) calls in-state, with many calls rolling over to national backup centers.&nbsp;Kansas has also performed better than its national peers on average wait times (also known as speed to answer). That rate in Kansas is 21 seconds, outpacing the national average of 35 seconds.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The efforts of our&nbsp;state&nbsp;leadership and strategic&nbsp;community&nbsp;partners&nbsp;have&nbsp;led to the&nbsp;successful&nbsp;implementation of&nbsp;an exceptional&nbsp;mental health resource that is meeting the needs of thousands of Kansans trying to manage crisis in their daily lives,”&nbsp;KDADS Secretary Laura&nbsp;Howard said. “I think the increase in the number of contacts we’ve seen in the last year bears that out,&nbsp;and we can proudly say that every call, text,&nbsp;or chat we receive has the potential to be life-changing or&nbsp;lifesaving.”&nbsp;Kansas Suicide Prevention Headquarters (KSPHQ) reports receiving an average of 1,230 calls each month from July 2022-June2023. An average of 15 calls, or 1.2%, per month resulted in emergency dispatch (response by emergency services for imminent risk of harm generally — though not always —with the caller’s permission). KSPHQ focuses on working collaboratively with callers to avoid emergency intervention and resolve crises during the initial contact and is equipped to connect callers to emergency service alternatives like mobile response teams and crisis-receiving facilities where available.&nbsp;&nbsp;"KSPHQ has been so honored to provide lifesaving services throughout Kansas during this first year of 9-8-8,”&nbsp;said Monica Kurz, vp of policy &amp; prevention, KSPHQ. “The success we’ve had in delivering timely and high-quality crisis mental health support to our neighbors is a testament to the passion and dedication of our counselors and staff as well as the state's investment in crisis mental health services."&nbsp;&nbsp;

9-8-8 suicide lifeline sees 73% more crisis contacts in Kansas' first year of operation

The Junction City Police Officers’ Association with the collaboration of the Junction City Police Department are holding its 2nd annual Shop With A Cop Charity Golf Tournament. The tournament will be at 10:00 am (Shotgun start) on September 30th&nbsp;at the Rolling Meadows Golf Course with registration starting at 8:30 am.&nbsp;All Proceeds raised by the Golf Tournament will be donated to the Shop With A Cop charity event held every December. 

Shop With A Cop is a charity event where 100 less fortunate children from Junction City/Geary County are taken to Wal-Mart to shop with a police officer where $150 worth of gifts are bought plus jackets, coats, gloves, beanie caps and shoes are given to each child.&nbsp;The tournament will be a “How Low Can You Go?” format meaning every 4-man team hits from the closest Tee Box, and each green will have 8” holes (2x normal size). Entry to the tournament is $60 per golfer ($240 per team). Only 25 teams allowed, so the first 25 paid teams will be allowed to play. Buy-in includes green fees, cart rental, range token, and lunch.

Teams can sign up at the Junction City Police Department where forms are available (210 E. 9th St. Junction City, KS 66441) or at the Rolling Meadows Golf Course. More information is available by calling (785) 762-5912 and asking for Sergeant Borges or Cadin Sanner.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The Association is also asking local businesses or individuals for assistance in raising money for the charity. The business or individual can sponsor a hole at the golf course for $150 which will include the business logo on a yard sign that will be posted on a hole of the golf course. If interested in sponsoring a hole please contact us.

We are also looking for volunteers to help with set up, registration (morning only), raffles the day of, beer cart and food preparation, if interested please contact Sgt. Borges (Eliel.borges@jcks.com) or Cadin Sanner (Cadin.Sanner@jcks.com).

The Junction City Police Officers’ Association with the collaboration of the Junction City Police Department are holding its 2nd annual Shop With A Cop Charity Golf Tournament. The tournament will be at 10:00 am (Shotgun start) on September 30th&nbsp;at the Rolling Meadows Golf Course with registration starting at 8:30 am.&nbsp;All Proceeds raised by the Golf Tournament will be donated to the Shop With A Cop charity event held every December. Shop With A Cop is a charity event where 100 less fortunate children from Junction City/Geary County are taken to Wal-Mart to shop with a police officer where $150 worth of gifts are bought plus jackets, coats, gloves, beanie caps and shoes are given to each child.&nbsp;The tournament will be a “How Low Can You Go?” format meaning every 4-man team hits from the closest Tee Box, and each green will have 8” holes (2x normal size). Entry to the tournament is $60 per golfer ($240 per team). Only 25 teams allowed, so the first 25 paid teams will be allowed to play. Buy-in includes green fees, cart rental, range token, and lunch.Teams can sign up at the Junction City Police Department where forms are available (210 E. 9th St. Junction City, KS 66441) or at the Rolling Meadows Golf Course. More information is available by calling (785) 762-5912 and asking for Sergeant Borges or Cadin Sanner.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Association is also asking local businesses or individuals for assistance in raising money for the charity. The business or individual can sponsor a hole at the golf course for $150 which will include the business logo on a yard sign that will be posted on a hole of the golf course. If interested in sponsoring a hole please contact us.We are also looking for volunteers to help with set up, registration (morning only), raffles the day of, beer cart and food preparation, if interested please contact Sgt. Borges (Eliel.borges@jcks.com) or Cadin Sanner (Cadin.Sanner@jcks.com).

Shop with a Cop charity golf tournament will be held Sept. 30th

The Junction City Municipal Building will be the site of a Red Cross blood drive on Thursday and Friday July 20th and 21st. The hours on the 20th will be 11:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. and on the 21st 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

There will be a free Shark Week T-Shirt for donors while supplies last. To donate blood call 1-800-REDCROSS.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThe Junction City Municipal Building will be the site of a Red Cross blood drive on Thursday and Friday July 20th and 21st. The hours on the 20th will be 11:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. and on the 21st 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.There will be a free Shark Week T-Shirt for donors while supplies last. To donate blood call 1-800-REDCROSS.

 Red Cross schedules a blood drive in Junction City

Registration Day for the upcoming school year at Saint Xavier will be July 26th. Parents and students can take care of all their registration needs. They can complete registration packets and tuition agreements, collect the school year calendar, supply lists, cafeteria forms, activities schedule and physical forms and more.

Uniforms can be tried on and ordered, and you can purchase and order Saint Xavier spirit wear.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689709924710.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostRegistration Day for the upcoming school year at Saint Xavier will be July 26th. Parents and students can take care of all their registration needs. They can complete registration packets and tuition agreements, collect the school year calendar, supply lists, cafeteria forms, activities schedule and physical forms and more.Uniforms can be tried on and ordered, and you can purchase and order Saint Xavier spirit wear.

Saint Xavier School will host Registration Day

RILEY COUNTY, KAN.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly today joined the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks to formally celebrate the grand re-opening of Fancy Creek Shooting Range at Tuttle Creek State Park. Demolition and construction of the range began in July 2021, and the range reopened to the public last month, according to a media release from Kelly's office.

“Investing in public spaces adds tremendous value to our quality of life as Kansans,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“I’m proud that this shooting range is now open to the public and will continue to promote a culture of gun safety and responsibility on the grounds of one of our 29 incredible Kansas state parks.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The complete renovation includes the construction of concrete baffles, sidewalls, and firing line covers consisting of a 14-position, 100-yard rifle range, a 12-position 50-meter handgun and rifle range, and two 15-position, 15-yard handgun ranges. The reopened outdoor shooting facility maximizes shooting opportunities while occupying a smaller footprint than traditional dirt berm ranges.&nbsp;

“Fancy Creek Shooting Range will provide a valuable location for beginners to learn the fundamentals of firearms and range safety, and seasoned shooters are sure to appreciate this state-of-the-art facility,”&nbsp;said Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Secretary Brad Loveless.&nbsp;“I’d like to recognize our state parks staff, our engineers, our contractors, and our range volunteers for their roles in updating and maintaining this quality facility. Their collaboration and partnership have played a pivotal role in ensuring the overall safety and functionality of this range, and I know I speak for all future range users when I say, we’re thankful for it.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689701944955.png" alt="Demolition and construction of the range began in July 2021, and the range reopened to the public last month-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Demolition and construction of the range began in July 2021, and the range reopened to the public last month-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY, KAN.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly today joined the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks to formally celebrate the grand re-opening of Fancy Creek Shooting Range at Tuttle Creek State Park. Demolition and construction of the range began in July 2021, and the range reopened to the public last month, according to a media release from Kelly's office.“Investing in public spaces adds tremendous value to our quality of life as Kansans,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“I’m proud that this shooting range is now open to the public and will continue to promote a culture of gun safety and responsibility on the grounds of one of our 29 incredible Kansas state parks.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The complete renovation includes the construction of concrete baffles, sidewalls, and firing line covers consisting of a 14-position, 100-yard rifle range, a 12-position 50-meter handgun and rifle range, and two 15-position, 15-yard handgun ranges. The reopened outdoor shooting facility maximizes shooting opportunities while occupying a smaller footprint than traditional dirt berm ranges.&nbsp;“Fancy Creek Shooting Range will provide a valuable location for beginners to learn the fundamentals of firearms and range safety, and seasoned shooters are sure to appreciate this state-of-the-art facility,”&nbsp;said Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Secretary Brad Loveless.&nbsp;“I’d like to recognize our state parks staff, our engineers, our contractors, and our range volunteers for their roles in updating and maintaining this quality facility. Their collaboration and partnership have played a pivotal role in ensuring the overall safety and functionality of this range, and I know I speak for all future range users when I say, we’re thankful for it.”&nbsp;

Governor Kelly cuts ribbon on redesigned Fancy Creek Shooting Range

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

On Monday evening, officers filed a report for theft by deception, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 A 23-year-old woman reported she sent a $500 deposit to a 25-year-old male suspect to buy a dog, but never received the dog or the money back.

Police released no additional details early Tuesday.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged theft in Manhattan.On Monday evening, officers filed a report for theft by deception, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. A 23-year-old woman reported she sent a $500 deposit to a 25-year-old male suspect to buy a dog, but never received the dog or the money back.Police released no additional details early Tuesday.

RCPD: Woman lost $500 deposit in attempt to buy dog

Fort Riley officials have posted via social media that portions of Marshall Ave near the intersection of Henry Drive will be closed for road construction beginning July 19, and that is expected to last through August 11. Plan to use alternate routes during this time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689684463706.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fort Riley officials have posted via social media that portions of Marshall Ave near the intersection of Henry Drive will be closed for road construction beginning July 19, and that is expected to last through August 11. Plan to use alternate routes during this time.

Army provides notice of a road closure

WABAUNSEE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Monday in Wabaunsee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2017 Ford F650 driven by Mikel Keith Pruitt, 61, Miltonvale, was westbound on Interstate 70 one mile east of Vera Road.

The truck left the roadway, crossed the median and eastbound lanes, entered the south ditch, traveled through a fence and struck a concrete barrier.

EMS transported Pruitt to Stormont Vail. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

WABAUNSEE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Monday in Wabaunsee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2017 Ford F650 driven by Mikel Keith Pruitt, 61, Miltonvale, was westbound on Interstate 70 one mile east of Vera Road.The truck left the roadway, crossed the median and eastbound lanes, entered the south ditch, traveled through a fence and struck a concrete barrier.EMS transported Pruitt to Stormont Vail. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after violent I-70 truck crash

This is day 12 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.

Wheat harvest continues to be a slog with producers fighting rains and weeds to get the crop across the scale. Harvest is now 71 percent complete, well behind 98 percent last year and 94 percent for the five-year average, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) crop progress report for the week ending July 16, 2023.&nbsp;

In the far southwestern corner of the state, Morgan Walls with Elkhart Co-op reports wheat harvest in Morton County has been a drag. Weather has been inhibitive; quality has been a challenge and weeds continue to be a struggle.&nbsp;

Wheat harvest here should be wrapped up by the fourth of July, but this year that’s when the first loads hit the scales. With rain delays that have continuously deteriorated test weights, wheat harvest should finally finish by the end of the week.&nbsp;

But it’s hard to gauge where harvest is at, as 70 to 75 percent of planted acres were zeroed out by crop insurance, and more acres were taken out by spotty hail in the last couple of weeks. Test weights are averaging lighter than preferred at about 58 pounds per bushel with protein ranging between 12 and 14 percent. Yields are all over the place, from five bushels an acre all the way up to a very small area that had timely moisture and is seeing averages around 70 bushels per acre.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Following a busy weekend of cutting in Ness County harvest is all but done, according to Brad Cowan, general manager of CGS in Bazine. After having started cutting around June 23, producers are just tired after fighting the weeds, fighting the weather and fighting green wheat.&nbsp;

Yields ranged from 15 to 55 bushels per acre with test weights averaging 59.6 pounds per bushel and average protein coming in consistently just short of 13 percent. Fields that were close, but not released by crop insurance, benefitted from a perfect two-week period of filling weather, resulting in yields at 25 to 30 bushels per acre.&nbsp;

Weeds have been a continuous struggle, which means more work for the elevators. CGS will take in about the same number of bushels as last year, which is roughly half of the five-year average. That wheat will be loaded by train onto the short line and delivered to flour mills in eastern Kansas.&nbsp;

Weeds are also the main struggle in Meade County, where Dave Strecker with Alliance Ag and Grain LLC reported from Fowler in the eastern part of the county. Harvest here has been going on for a long time, having started around June 27 and still only about three-quarters finished.&nbsp;

Strecker said grain quality is pretty good with better than average proteins, but bushels are down dramatically due to approximately 65 percent abandonment of planted acres. There are several producers who won’t bring a single bushel of wheat to town.&nbsp;

The wheat that is coming in is yielding 20 to 35 bushels per acre, compared to the 60 to 70 bushels per acre for a normal year. Overall, he estimated the area will take in a maximum of 25 percent of bushels compared to the five-year average.&nbsp;

But, by this time next week, Strecker expects that all the wheat that will be harvested will be in the bin. And that’s much-needed as the corn is tasseling. He estimated only five weeks until the first load of dryland corn arrives, not a lot of time for the elevators to turn house and prepare for fall harvest.&nbsp;

With triple-digit temperatures expected in coming days, producers will likely make quick harvest progress if summer storms stay away. Stay tuned as the Kansas Wheat crew continues to share results from the field with the next report scheduled for July 18.&nbsp;

The 2023 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 Twitter, use #wheatharvest23. Tag us at @kansaswheat on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to share your harvest story and photos.

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 </figure>By Julia Debes for Kansas WheatThis is day 12 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.Wheat harvest continues to be a slog with producers fighting rains and weeds to get the crop across the scale. Harvest is now 71 percent complete, well behind 98 percent last year and 94 percent for the five-year average, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) crop progress report for the week ending July 16, 2023.&nbsp;In the far southwestern corner of the state, Morgan Walls with Elkhart Co-op reports wheat harvest in Morton County has been a drag. Weather has been inhibitive; quality has been a challenge and weeds continue to be a struggle.&nbsp;Wheat harvest here should be wrapped up by the fourth of July, but this year that’s when the first loads hit the scales. With rain delays that have continuously deteriorated test weights, wheat harvest should finally finish by the end of the week.&nbsp;But it’s hard to gauge where harvest is at, as 70 to 75 percent of planted acres were zeroed out by crop insurance, and more acres were taken out by spotty hail in the last couple of weeks. Test weights are averaging lighter than preferred at about 58 pounds per bushel with protein ranging between 12 and 14 percent. Yields are all over the place, from five bushels an acre all the way up to a very small area that had timely moisture and is seeing averages around 70 bushels per acre.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following a busy weekend of cutting in Ness County harvest is all but done, according to Brad Cowan, general manager of CGS in Bazine. After having started cutting around June 23, producers are just tired after fighting the weeds, fighting the weather and fighting green wheat.&nbsp;Yields ranged from 15 to 55 bushels per acre with test weights averaging 59.6 pounds per bushel and average protein coming in consistently just short of 13 percent. Fields that were close, but not released by crop insurance, benefitted from a perfect two-week period of filling weather, resulting in yields at 25 to 30 bushels per acre.&nbsp;Weeds have been a continuous struggle, which means more work for the elevators. CGS will take in about the same number of bushels as last year, which is roughly half of the five-year average. That wheat will be loaded by train onto the short line and delivered to flour mills in eastern Kansas.&nbsp;Weeds are also the main struggle in Meade County, where Dave Strecker with Alliance Ag and Grain LLC reported from Fowler in the eastern part of the county. Harvest here has been going on for a long time, having started around June 27 and still only about three-quarters finished.&nbsp;Strecker said grain quality is pretty good with better than average proteins, but bushels are down dramatically due to approximately 65 percent abandonment of planted acres. There are several producers who won’t bring a single bushel of wheat to town.&nbsp;The wheat that is coming in is yielding 20 to 35 bushels per acre, compared to the 60 to 70 bushels per acre for a normal year. Overall, he estimated the area will take in a maximum of 25 percent of bushels compared to the five-year average.&nbsp;But, by this time next week, Strecker expects that all the wheat that will be harvested will be in the bin. And that’s much-needed as the corn is tasseling. He estimated only five weeks until the first load of dryland corn arrives, not a lot of time for the elevators to turn house and prepare for fall harvest.&nbsp;With triple-digit temperatures expected in coming days, producers will likely make quick harvest progress if summer storms stay away. Stay tuned as the Kansas Wheat crew continues to share results from the field with the next report scheduled for July 18.&nbsp;The 2023 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 Twitter, use #wheatharvest23. Tag us at @kansaswheat on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to share your harvest story and photos.

Day 12, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report

Junction City High School FFA sponsor Laura Miller and students have been honored for their accomplishments in June. Miller had 20 teams that competed in the Kansas FFA State Agriscience Fair. Thirteen finished in first place and can now have an opportunity for their research to be named a national finalist.

Lilye Cartwright, Mikayla Dibben, Kourtney Dibben, Emma Hinds and Keiondrae Wilcox, Jordan's Thiem and Zeke Witt, Alex Bunch, Jace Goggins and Chris Henry.

Others included Keira Gliniecki, Kenzie Forbus and Eliana Re, Kaitlyn Sohnrey and Brianna Wallace, Grady Oentrich, Grant Roeser and Blake Proetti, and Chloe Wilson.

Junction City High School FFA sponsor Laura Miller and students have been honored for their accomplishments in June. Miller had 20 teams that competed in the Kansas FFA State Agriscience Fair. Thirteen finished in first place and can now have an opportunity for their research to be named a national finalist.Winning teams included:Lilye Cartwright, Mikayla Dibben, Kourtney Dibben, Emma Hinds and Keiondrae Wilcox, Jordan's Thiem and Zeke Witt, Alex Bunch, Jace Goggins and Chris Henry.Others included Keira Gliniecki, Kenzie Forbus and Eliana Re, Kaitlyn Sohnrey and Brianna Wallace, Grady Oentrich, Grant Roeser and Blake Proetti, and Chloe Wilson.

FFA members are honored

Geary county Commissioners received the annual report from the Health Department Monday.

There were a number of topics touched on by Charles Martinez from the department.

--The administration updated all policies.

--There were efforts to improve trust in the community with the department.

--They worked to get the homeless shelter open.

--The department worked with other nonprofits to assist them.

--The state chose the department for the Nutrition Matters pilot program.

--Increases in teen pregnancies and STI's were identified. There will be an overall campaign on secure health awareness,

--Some harmful health behaviors had decreases including smoking and a lack of healthy foods.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689631481571.jpeg" alt="Geary County Health Department" />
 <figcaption>Geary County Health Department</figcaption>
 </figure>Geary county Commissioners received the annual report from the Health Department Monday.There were a number of topics touched on by Charles Martinez from the department.--The administration updated all policies.--There were efforts to improve trust in the community with the department.--They worked to get the homeless shelter open.--The department worked with other nonprofits to assist them.--The state chose the department for the Nutrition Matters pilot program.--Increases in teen pregnancies and STI's were identified. There will be an overall campaign on secure health awareness,--Some harmful health behaviors had decreases including smoking and a lack of healthy foods.

Geary Commissioners receive the Health Department annual report

Police Chief John Lamb noted this past week that starting August 19th and continuing through September 4th, The Junction City Police Department will join other police agencies across Kansas in a crackdown aimed at removing impaired drivers from the roadways during You Drink. You Drive. You Lose. 

Lamb said that you can count on the JCPD to vigorously enforce impaired driving and other traffic laws, not just during this enforcement campaign but all through the year to save lives.

Police Chief John Lamb noted this past week that starting August 19th and continuing through September 4th, The Junction City Police Department will join other police agencies across Kansas in a crackdown aimed at removing impaired drivers from the roadways during You Drink. You Drive. You Lose. Lamb said that you can count on the JCPD to vigorously enforce impaired driving and other traffic laws, not just during this enforcement campaign but all through the year to save lives.

JCPD will participate in a crackdown on impaired drivers

Junction City Public Works has announced that 13th Street &amp; Monroe is still undergoing repairs so there might be a chance that residents will experience little to no water pressure.

Junction City Public Works has announced that 13th Street &amp; Monroe is still undergoing repairs so there might be a chance that residents will experience little to no water pressure.

Junction City Public Works updates a project

Manhattan —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.

Just after 2p.m. Friday, police arrested&nbsp;Matthew Hinton, 36, of Wichita after officers responded to a call reporting two people engaging in inappropriate behavior in a vehicle at City Park in Manhattan, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

&nbsp;Officers identified Hinton and a 14-year-old girl in the vehicle.

Further investigation led to Hinton’s arrest on requested charges of indecent liberties with a child and two counts of sexual exploitation of a child.

Hinton remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $200,000.

Manhattan —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.Just after 2p.m. Friday, police arrested&nbsp;Matthew Hinton, 36, of Wichita after officers responded to a call reporting two people engaging in inappropriate behavior in a vehicle at City Park in Manhattan, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.&nbsp;Officers identified Hinton and a 14-year-old girl in the vehicle.Further investigation led to Hinton’s arrest on requested charges of indecent liberties with a child and two counts of sexual exploitation of a child.Hinton remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $200,000.

RCPD: Kansas man accused of sex crimes involving 14-year-old

Geary County Rural Water District 4 said Monday that there has been a line break in the 6800 block of Old Milford Rd. The outage will effect the area between the Rolling Meadows Golf Course and Northwood Drive and partially McGeorge. Service will be restored as soon as possible.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689111078004.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Repairs are complete. Water is back on.----Geary County Rural Water District 4 said Monday that there has been a line break in the 6800 block of Old Milford Rd. The outage will effect the area between the Rolling Meadows Golf Course and Northwood Drive and partially McGeorge. Service will be restored as soon as possible.

Rural Water District 4 reports a line break

Greg Doering, Kansas Farm Bureau In a few days, the local county fair will kick off marking the beginning of summer’s end as classes begin in the following weeks. But for a few short, hot days, the fair offers a little bit of everything for everyone between the midway and mutton busting. I’m still confident (arrogant) enough in my athletic ability (rapidly deteriorating) that I know with enough practice (cash) I could beat the carnival games and win a (pity) prize. I’m also mature (old) enough to know I’d rather save my money for the assortment of fried foods (because calories and cholesterol don’t count at the fair). We usually skip the entertainment tent, finding the aforementioned mutton busting and the pedal pull more amusing. Plus, there’s no shortage of other projects to take in, from walking past the stalls of the livestock barn to seeking the refuge of air conditioning in the exhibition hall to look at all the entries there. The fried food and sugary treats are especially tasty after viewing the supersized produce entered in the garden category. Joking aside, I’m always impressed with the variety of projects 4-Hers enter at the fair, many of which take a lot of time and effort that’s often unseen in the final product. 4-H members also have a chance to have photos at their local fair featured in a future edition of “Kansas Living” by submitting. Pictures must be submitted by Oct. 1 at&nbsp;<a href="https://kfb.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=45bba928f411d21617c5eadbe&amp;id=d4fded6233&amp;e=32b5639f2e" target="_blank">www.kfb.org/Article/4H-and-KFB-Photo-Contest</a>. It’s also easy to forget the fair isn’t simply showing off the end result after months of planning and labor. Exhibition also requires courage and self-confidence to compare one’s work against others in front of a judge. In many ways, the county fair is a laboratory of everyday life. Participants have to weigh their responsibilities against the rampant temptations of rides, food, friends and games. Impulse control is also helped by the auctions, and associated premiums, held the final night. There’s just less time for the money to burn holes in a pocket. Class champions also must decide between going to auction or advancing their project to the state fair. However, it all turns out, there’s always lifelong memories made. Time will heal the hurt of finishing as the reserve champion, and it generally happens quickly since there’s plenty of friends and acquaintances around who haven’t been seen since school ended in May. Perhaps the greatest lesson is that sometimes indulging in excess is OK. Like consuming way too many calories. It’s perfectly reasonable to have an unbalanced meal consisting of a corndog and a funnel cake. Or finally having the courage to tackle the scary ride this year. Or maybe risking a shoulder injury to win a teddy bear. Afterall, it’s just once a year the carnival lights brighten the night sky at the county fair. There’s no real world need to bust mutton, but it’s the best part of any rodeo. And those pedal pullers will soon graduate to more powerful machines. Everything in moderation, including moderation, so be sure to savor all the lessons available at your county fair this year.

Greg Doering, Kansas Farm Bureau In a few days, the local county fair will kick off marking the beginning of summer’s end as classes begin in the following weeks. But for a few short, hot days, the fair offers a little bit of everything for everyone between the midway and mutton busting. I’m still confident (arrogant) enough in my athletic ability (rapidly deteriorating) that I know with enough practice (cash) I could beat the carnival games and win a (pity) prize. I’m also mature (old) enough to know I’d rather save my money for the assortment of fried foods (because calories and cholesterol don’t count at the fair). We usually skip the entertainment tent, finding the aforementioned mutton busting and the pedal pull more amusing. Plus, there’s no shortage of other projects to take in, from walking past the stalls of the livestock barn to seeking the refuge of air conditioning in the exhibition hall to look at all the entries there. The fried food and sugary treats are especially tasty after viewing the supersized produce entered in the garden category. Joking aside, I’m always impressed with the variety of projects 4-Hers enter at the fair, many of which take a lot of time and effort that’s often unseen in the final product. 4-H members also have a chance to have photos at their local fair featured in a future edition of “Kansas Living” by submitting. Pictures must be submitted by Oct. 1 at&nbsp;<a href="https://kfb.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=45bba928f411d21617c5eadbe&amp;id=d4fded6233&amp;e=32b5639f2e" target="_blank">www.kfb.org/Article/4H-and-KFB-Photo-Contest</a>. It’s also easy to forget the fair isn’t simply showing off the end result after months of planning and labor. Exhibition also requires courage and self-confidence to compare one’s work against others in front of a judge. In many ways, the county fair is a laboratory of everyday life. Participants have to weigh their responsibilities against the rampant temptations of rides, food, friends and games. Impulse control is also helped by the auctions, and associated premiums, held the final night. There’s just less time for the money to burn holes in a pocket. Class champions also must decide between going to auction or advancing their project to the state fair. However, it all turns out, there’s always lifelong memories made. Time will heal the hurt of finishing as the reserve champion, and it generally happens quickly since there’s plenty of friends and acquaintances around who haven’t been seen since school ended in May. Perhaps the greatest lesson is that sometimes indulging in excess is OK. Like consuming way too many calories. It’s perfectly reasonable to have an unbalanced meal consisting of a corndog and a funnel cake. Or finally having the courage to tackle the scary ride this year. Or maybe risking a shoulder injury to win a teddy bear. Afterall, it’s just once a year the carnival lights brighten the night sky at the county fair. There’s no real world need to bust mutton, but it’s the best part of any rodeo. And those pedal pullers will soon graduate to more powerful machines. Everything in moderation, including moderation, so be sure to savor all the lessons available at your county fair this year.

Fair life lessons

Geary County Pre-Fair activities include the 4-H Public Revue and Royalty Crowning on Thursday at the 4-H Center on South Spring Valley Rd. Activities begin at 7 p.m.

The 4-H Dog Show will be held at 6:30 p.m. Friday.

The fair runs Sunday July 23rd through Thursday July 27th.

By Dewey YerrillJC PostGeary County Pre-Fair activities include the 4-H Public Revue and Royalty Crowning on Thursday at the 4-H Center on South Spring Valley Rd. Activities begin at 7 p.m.The 4-H Dog Show will be held at 6:30 p.m. Friday.The fair runs Sunday July 23rd through Thursday July 27th.

4-H Pre-Fair events are this week

The USD 475 Board of Education has approved a new greenhouse project for Junction City High School from Hutton Construction for $798,125. The District said this will be a Conley Series 7500 structure. The plan also includes heating and cooling with shades.

There will also be irrigation and hydroponic growing systems for the greenhouse. The greenhouse was wanted when the opportunity occurred to build a new high school.

USD 475 releaseThe USD 475 Board of Education has approved a new greenhouse project for Junction City High School from Hutton Construction for $798,125. The District said this will be a Conley Series 7500 structure. The plan also includes heating and cooling with shades.There will also be irrigation and hydroponic growing systems for the greenhouse. The greenhouse was wanted when the opportunity occurred to build a new high school.

USD 475 authorizes high school greenhouse

Geary County Historical Society officials have announced that they will host their annual Ice Cream Social fundraiser on Saturday, Sept. 16th from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Historical Museum. This is a change from past years when it was held on Sunday.&nbsp;

The reason&nbsp; for the change is so the event can coincide with Steam Saturday programming which this year will include engineering instruments.

The Ice Cream Social will still include such traditions as the High School Jazz Band and Orchestra, Kansas Brigade Band, pies made by 4-H clubs and ice cream.

Acoustic Junction will return this fall. Each year local musicians perform a concert inside St. Joseph's Historic Church to help raise money for the restoration of the church.

This year the event is scheduled Oct. 7 at 6:30 p.m. with music beginning at 7 p.m. The church is located at 13497 Lower McDowell Creek Rd.&nbsp;

By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary County Historical Society officials have announced that they will host their annual Ice Cream Social fundraiser on Saturday, Sept. 16th from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Historical Museum. This is a change from past years when it was held on Sunday.&nbsp;The reason&nbsp; for the change is so the event can coincide with Steam Saturday programming which this year will include engineering instruments.The Ice Cream Social will still include such traditions as the High School Jazz Band and Orchestra, Kansas Brigade Band, pies made by 4-H clubs and ice cream.---Acoustic Junction will return this fall. Each year local musicians perform a concert inside St. Joseph's Historic Church to help raise money for the restoration of the church.This year the event is scheduled Oct. 7 at 6:30 p.m. with music beginning at 7 p.m. The church is located at 13497 Lower McDowell Creek Rd.&nbsp;

Historical Society previews upcoming events

Fans enjoyed events ranging from bull riding to team roping during the Junction City Rodeo Friday and Saturday nights.

Activities also included a special needs rodeo and queen coronation.

Fans enjoyed events ranging from bull riding to team roping during the Junction City Rodeo Friday and Saturday nights.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689518436157.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Activities also included a special needs rodeo and queen coronation.

Junction city hosted a rodeo Friday and Saturday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards<a href="https://www.kasb.org/45132?articleID=139240"> notes that Kansas kids are doing better educationally than might be assumed from the amount of funding they receive.</a>

"Kansas continues to spend less per pupil than most states," Tallman said. "We rank about 28th in the country. We spend about 10% less per pupil from all sources. However, we continue to have, across an average of a number of educational outcomes, pretty strong educational results. Probably for the last five or six years, we've used a measure tracking things like national test scores, ACT, SAT, graduation rates. The most recent update we have is that Kansas is 13th in the country."

Kansas is competitive with its neighbor states.

"We're about in the middle point of the region, a little bit higher," Tallman said. "We've consistently been around the same as the region. What we've noticed, however, is that going back about 10 years, every state except Oklahoma has increased its funding per pupil more than Kansas."

Kansas provides more state funding than the U.S. average, but its school districts receive much less local and federal aid, so total funding is lower. This is a problem that the legislature might not be as able to easily solve, as there is a disparity in property value that already is equalized as part of the school finance formula.

"Lower wealth districts, districts with less property wealth, a much higher share of their budget will come from the state," Tallman said. "Our system now really does say that even property wealthy districts still get a lot of money from the state. Those districts may also be, if you kind of break it down by county, we're also talking about the share of income tax that goes to education, the share of sales tax. Property taxes, of course, are only a portion of school funding and in Kansas, a smaller portion than more states. We rely more heavily on state sales and income tax to fund education than some states do."

Per-pupil funding affects how states can compete based on salaries, class size, and the range of academic and student support programs.

<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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582221969260.jpeg" alt="Mark Tallman Kansas Association of School Boards" />
 <figcaption>Mark Tallman Kansas Association of School Boards</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards<a href="https://www.kasb.org/45132?articleID=139240"> notes that Kansas kids are doing better educationally than might be assumed from the amount of funding they receive.</a>"Kansas continues to spend less per pupil than most states," Tallman said. "We rank about 28th in the country. We spend about 10% less per pupil from all sources. However, we continue to have, across an average of a number of educational outcomes, pretty strong educational results. Probably for the last five or six years, we've used a measure tracking things like national test scores, ACT, SAT, graduation rates. The most recent update we have is that Kansas is 13th in the country."Kansas is competitive with its neighbor states."We're about in the middle point of the region, a little bit higher," Tallman said. "We've consistently been around the same as the region. What we've noticed, however, is that going back about 10 years, every state except Oklahoma has increased its funding per pupil more than Kansas."Kansas provides more state funding than the U.S. average, but its school districts receive much less local and federal aid, so total funding is lower. This is a problem that the legislature might not be as able to easily solve, as there is a disparity in property value that already is equalized as part of the school finance formula."Lower wealth districts, districts with less property wealth, a much higher share of their budget will come from the state," Tallman said. "Our system now really does say that even property wealthy districts still get a lot of money from the state. Those districts may also be, if you kind of break it down by county, we're also talking about the share of income tax that goes to education, the share of sales tax. Property taxes, of course, are only a portion of school funding and in Kansas, a smaller portion than more states. We rely more heavily on state sales and income tax to fund education than some states do."Per-pupil funding affects how states can compete based on salaries, class size, and the range of academic and student support programs.<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;

Tallman: Kansas kids getting bang for the buck

JUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;– Geary County Schools USD 475 is announcing the hiring of Matt Hoover as its new communications coordinator for the 2023-24 school year.&nbsp;

Hoover brings a wealth of experience to USD 475 as he has spent the last seven years working for the Crowley Independent School District in Crowley, Texas, as its Digital Content Administrator. During his time at Crowley ISD, Hoover, who claimed several state-wide honors at CISD, helped oversee the communications and marketing efforts for a district that features 25 schools and over 16,500 students.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prior to his time at Crowley ISD, Hoover was an Associate Director of Athletic Communications at Texas Christian University for 10 years. While at TCU, he oversaw the communication efforts for the men’s and women’s basketball programs, while also being a secondary contact for the nationally ranked football team. Hoover, who was a two-time athletics employee of the year and a finalist for the University Chancellors Award, also worked with the TCU equestrian, women’s soccer, cross country and track &amp; field programs while in Fort Worth. He also oversaw the athletic department's website and media relations FrogVision video staff. &nbsp;

Hoover, who is originally from Elkhorn, Neb., graduated with both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from South Dakota State University in Brookings, S.D. Him and his wife, Katie, are looking forward to being a part of the Geary County Schools USD 475 community. &nbsp;

USD 475 releaseJUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;– Geary County Schools USD 475 is announcing the hiring of Matt Hoover as its new communications coordinator for the 2023-24 school year.&nbsp;Hoover brings a wealth of experience to USD 475 as he has spent the last seven years working for the Crowley Independent School District in Crowley, Texas, as its Digital Content Administrator. During his time at Crowley ISD, Hoover, who claimed several state-wide honors at CISD, helped oversee the communications and marketing efforts for a district that features 25 schools and over 16,500 students.&nbsp;&nbsp;Prior to his time at Crowley ISD, Hoover was an Associate Director of Athletic Communications at Texas Christian University for 10 years. While at TCU, he oversaw the communication efforts for the men’s and women’s basketball programs, while also being a secondary contact for the nationally ranked football team. Hoover, who was a two-time athletics employee of the year and a finalist for the University Chancellors Award, also worked with the TCU equestrian, women’s soccer, cross country and track &amp; field programs while in Fort Worth. He also oversaw the athletic department's website and media relations FrogVision video staff. &nbsp;Hoover, who is originally from Elkhorn, Neb., graduated with both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from South Dakota State University in Brookings, S.D. Him and his wife, Katie, are looking forward to being a part of the Geary County Schools USD 475 community. &nbsp;

USD 475 names a new communication coordinator

Chuck Otte - Special Weather Correspondent

June’s weather sounded like a broken record: above average temperatures and below average rainfall. This was the fourth consecutive month this year with below normal precipitation and the third consecutive month with above average temperatures.

The average daily high during June was 86.1, 1.0 degree above average. The average daily low was 66.2, 2.1 degrees above average. The monthly mean temperature was 76.2, 1.6 degrees above average. The highest temperature for the month was 100 on the 28th. The coolest temperature for the month was 55 degrees on the morning of the 12th and 13th. There were no temperature records set or tied during June. 

While it was slightly above normal for the month, it was a long way from record setting. The warmest June on record was June of 1953 with a brutal monthly mean temperature of 83 degrees. The coldest June was in 1982 with a chilly monthly mean of only 67.8 degrees.

While June rainfall was below average, it was not very much below average. Average June rainfall is 4.84 inches and Milford Lake received 4.56 inches. Most of that rain fell during the first half of the month leaving the last half rather warm and dry. This dry spell was broken with heavy overnight rains on June 30th, which was recorded on July 1st. The wettest June on record was 1965 when 11.90 inches fell. The driest June on record was the very next year, 1966, when a mere 0.20 inches was all that the rain gauges could collect.

July is our hottest month of the year. Average daily highs basically run 89 to 90 degrees during the entire month with average overnight lows maintaining a steady 68 degrees. In actuality, looking at long term (70+ years) data, temperatures peak around the middle of the month and then slowly start to drop. Looking at those long-term averages, the hottest day of the year is July 18th. 

The highest records ever recorded in Junction City were on July 12, 13 and 14, 1954 when the mercury hit 114 on each of those days. Average rainfall during July is 4.14 inches.

Chuck Otte - Special Weather CorrespondentJC PostJune’s weather sounded like a broken record: above average temperatures and below average rainfall. This was the fourth consecutive month this year with below normal precipitation and the third consecutive month with above average temperatures.The average daily high during June was 86.1, 1.0 degree above average. The average daily low was 66.2, 2.1 degrees above average. The monthly mean temperature was 76.2, 1.6 degrees above average. The highest temperature for the month was 100 on the 28th. The coolest temperature for the month was 55 degrees on the morning of the 12th and 13th. There were no temperature records set or tied during June. While it was slightly above normal for the month, it was a long way from record setting. The warmest June on record was June of 1953 with a brutal monthly mean temperature of 83 degrees. The coldest June was in 1982 with a chilly monthly mean of only 67.8 degrees.While June rainfall was below average, it was not very much below average. Average June rainfall is 4.84 inches and Milford Lake received 4.56 inches. Most of that rain fell during the first half of the month leaving the last half rather warm and dry. This dry spell was broken with heavy overnight rains on June 30th, which was recorded on July 1st. The wettest June on record was 1965 when 11.90 inches fell. The driest June on record was the very next year, 1966, when a mere 0.20 inches was all that the rain gauges could collect.July is our hottest month of the year. Average daily highs basically run 89 to 90 degrees during the entire month with average overnight lows maintaining a steady 68 degrees. In actuality, looking at long term (70+ years) data, temperatures peak around the middle of the month and then slowly start to drop. Looking at those long-term averages, the hottest day of the year is July 18th. The highest records ever recorded in Junction City were on July 12, 13 and 14, 1954 when the mercury hit 114 on each of those days. Average rainfall during July is 4.14 inches.

Chuck Otte provides the June weather summary for Geary County

Heavy rain accompanied by severe thunderstorms swept through Geary County Friday afternoon.

Heavy rain fell in the county and some street flash flooding occurred in Junction City. Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges confirmed 1.6 inches of rain fell on the west side of town.

Junction City Rodeo Association officials confirmed the rodeo scheduled Friday night will be held as planned. The rodeo arena was in good shape.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostHeavy rain accompanied by severe thunderstorms swept through Geary County Friday afternoon.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689367217870.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689367238295.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>( Photos by Rick Dyksta )Heavy rain fell in the county and some street flash flooding occurred in Junction City. Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges confirmed 1.6 inches of rain fell on the west side of town.--Junction City Rodeo Association officials confirmed the rodeo scheduled Friday night will be held as planned. The rodeo arena was in good shape.

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