Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat This is day 5 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.

The Kansas wheat harvest is 21 percent complete, well behind 54 percent last year and 38 percent for the five-year average, according to the official statistics provided by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service crop progress report for the week ending June 25, 2023. Maturity was rated at 58 percent, also behind 84 percent last year and the 77 percent five-year average.&nbsp;

Winter wheat conditions were rated at 53 percent very poor to poor, 31 percent fair and 16 percent good to excellent.&nbsp;

After several delays, Kansas farmers are finally seeing harvest weather. With this week’s hot temperatures, harvest is ramping up.

In Rice County in south-central Kansas, Brian Sieker has been cutting a sparse wheat crop a few miles west of Chase.&nbsp;

“I am pretty fortunate we even have wheat to cut this year,” Sieker said.&nbsp;

In the fall, the wheat was off to what looked like a great start, but as the year progressed, snows and rain events seemed a thing of the past, and the wheat used up any residual moisture. Now, with harvest in full swing around the area, some neighbors did not even bother to bring out their combines, opting to abandon their wheat and move on to a different crop.&nbsp;

For Sieker, yields have ranged as high as mid-thirties down into the teens. Moisture was normal at 11 percent and the test weights in some of his nearby fields were doing fairly well at 60 pounds per bushel.&nbsp;

“You go further west, they have it worse,” Sieker said. “We are just thankful to have some fields worth cutting.”&nbsp;

On top of the usual hustle and bustle of wheat harvest, it has been extra busy with Sieker switching between a combine cab with a swather cab depending on the current state of dew points and humidity as he also produces alfalfa hay, corn, soybeans and sorghum.&nbsp;

Eastern Kansas farmers who escaped the extreme drought conditions are seeing different yield results. In Montgomery County, sixth-generation farmer Jesse Muller started cutting his hard red winter wheat on June 13 but also had delays due to rain. Farming the land that has been in his family for multiple generations makes farming significantly more meaningful for Muller. This year’s crop, unlike other parts of the state, has Muller needing to calibrate his combine more often.&nbsp;

Muller is seeing a wide variety of yields across his fields, ranging anywhere from 20 bushels per acre in some spots up above 70 to 80 bushels per acre in others. Test weights are averaging above 60 pounds per bushel in his fields, which were planted to a Kansas Wheat Alliance variety with excellent head scab tolerance.&nbsp;

“Yields are better than expected on most fields, especially following corn due to the excess nitrogen from last year,” Muller said, explaining that his family was lucky to be in the pocket that received rains when they needed them.&nbsp;

“We’re seeing a wide array of variability, with some bright spots and some expected frustrations of lower-than-average yields, and some disastrous yields,” said Kansas Wheat CEO Justin Gilpin. “Overall, reported yields range from ten to 70 bushels per acre, with the averages in the 30s from what I’ve seen. I’ve also heard a lot of reports of proteins above 12%.”

Keep track of the Kansas Wheat crew as they continue their harvest tour. Look for a special edition harvest report on the soft red winter wheat crop&nbsp;on June 27.

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&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001k13lpC8yUtcPydXfrXj1qrA_9JCbV6bdbcJu4FClWIQGsFyTdeX6CV8KAbPP415-j-9xfEYB7-gx8w2KHIELWz2baMQ9J2-WyZtfjdKB4QJu4rXfRr4aR7Rst_9c7TLBIUQCXZICQD7i9dQVTcse7z_3U5WvhnFz&amp;c=2jJJhjaRXmsaO2FK1y7BuyXB8-BZYLqjIPvKAxwhi-b0HYPddTaI1Q==&amp;ch=kRcP7-D0AjwaNu6LLMk0PlYWI4Y-ZbxQ55c99rlDgMhOZLSX1boMqA==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001k13lpC8yUtcPydXfrXj1qrA_9JCbV6bdbcJu4FClWIQGsFyTdeX6CVisq5f4wsRWuhmvxNNEXrhztg2z08V7rUlzy8m93KM7lbnPm17iKS8LC6DvqGSkY1Mdw6nkueojZjrPJm9ofAoJ3vF7MEoX_dDbDagEj1f1&amp;c=2jJJhjaRXmsaO2FK1y7BuyXB8-BZYLqjIPvKAxwhi-b0HYPddTaI1Q==&amp;ch=kRcP7-D0AjwaNu6LLMk0PlYWI4Y-ZbxQ55c99rlDgMhOZLSX1boMqA==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001k13lpC8yUtcPydXfrXj1qrA_9JCbV6bdbcJu4FClWIQGsFyTdeX6CfCB4W7w9VDr7E4SBeDPFeKewYjvjpnorUuYjNFPwc4jOva1X-SzvgEAlol910Xi_zEV3zI8Ct5fqJ_RpqODUZGpzoakeJIEEKzdBSVyO53E&amp;c=2jJJhjaRXmsaO2FK1y7BuyXB8-BZYLqjIPvKAxwhi-b0HYPddTaI1Q==&amp;ch=kRcP7-D0AjwaNu6LLMk0PlYWI4Y-ZbxQ55c99rlDgMhOZLSX1boMqA==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687828465419.png" alt="Kansas Wheat Report Day 5. Photo Courtesy Kansas Wheat&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Wheat Report Day 5. Photo Courtesy Kansas Wheat&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure> Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat This is day 5 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.The Kansas wheat harvest is 21 percent complete, well behind 54 percent last year and 38 percent for the five-year average, according to the official statistics provided by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service crop progress report for the week ending June 25, 2023. Maturity was rated at 58 percent, also behind 84 percent last year and the 77 percent five-year average.&nbsp;Winter wheat conditions were rated at 53 percent very poor to poor, 31 percent fair and 16 percent good to excellent.&nbsp;After several delays, Kansas farmers are finally seeing harvest weather. With this week’s hot temperatures, harvest is ramping up.In Rice County in south-central Kansas, Brian Sieker has been cutting a sparse wheat crop a few miles west of Chase.&nbsp;“I am pretty fortunate we even have wheat to cut this year,” Sieker said.&nbsp;In the fall, the wheat was off to what looked like a great start, but as the year progressed, snows and rain events seemed a thing of the past, and the wheat used up any residual moisture. Now, with harvest in full swing around the area, some neighbors did not even bother to bring out their combines, opting to abandon their wheat and move on to a different crop.&nbsp;For Sieker, yields have ranged as high as mid-thirties down into the teens. Moisture was normal at 11 percent and the test weights in some of his nearby fields were doing fairly well at 60 pounds per bushel.&nbsp;“You go further west, they have it worse,” Sieker said. “We are just thankful to have some fields worth cutting.”&nbsp;On top of the usual hustle and bustle of wheat harvest, it has been extra busy with Sieker switching between a combine cab with a swather cab depending on the current state of dew points and humidity as he also produces alfalfa hay, corn, soybeans and sorghum.&nbsp;Eastern Kansas farmers who escaped the extreme drought conditions are seeing different yield results. In Montgomery County, sixth-generation farmer Jesse Muller started cutting his hard red winter wheat on June 13 but also had delays due to rain. Farming the land that has been in his family for multiple generations makes farming significantly more meaningful for Muller. This year’s crop, unlike other parts of the state, has Muller needing to calibrate his combine more often.&nbsp;Muller is seeing a wide variety of yields across his fields, ranging anywhere from 20 bushels per acre in some spots up above 70 to 80 bushels per acre in others. Test weights are averaging above 60 pounds per bushel in his fields, which were planted to a Kansas Wheat Alliance variety with excellent head scab tolerance.&nbsp;“Yields are better than expected on most fields, especially following corn due to the excess nitrogen from last year,” Muller said, explaining that his family was lucky to be in the pocket that received rains when they needed them.&nbsp;“We’re seeing a wide array of variability, with some bright spots and some expected frustrations of lower-than-average yields, and some disastrous yields,” said Kansas Wheat CEO Justin Gilpin. “Overall, reported yields range from ten to 70 bushels per acre, with the averages in the 30s from what I’ve seen. I’ve also heard a lot of reports of proteins above 12%.”Keep track of the Kansas Wheat crew as they continue their harvest tour. Look for a special edition harvest report on the soft red winter wheat crop&nbsp;on June 27.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&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001k13lpC8yUtcPydXfrXj1qrA_9JCbV6bdbcJu4FClWIQGsFyTdeX6CV8KAbPP415-j-9xfEYB7-gx8w2KHIELWz2baMQ9J2-WyZtfjdKB4QJu4rXfRr4aR7Rst_9c7TLBIUQCXZICQD7i9dQVTcse7z_3U5WvhnFz&amp;c=2jJJhjaRXmsaO2FK1y7BuyXB8-BZYLqjIPvKAxwhi-b0HYPddTaI1Q==&amp;ch=kRcP7-D0AjwaNu6LLMk0PlYWI4Y-ZbxQ55c99rlDgMhOZLSX1boMqA==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001k13lpC8yUtcPydXfrXj1qrA_9JCbV6bdbcJu4FClWIQGsFyTdeX6CVisq5f4wsRWuhmvxNNEXrhztg2z08V7rUlzy8m93KM7lbnPm17iKS8LC6DvqGSkY1Mdw6nkueojZjrPJm9ofAoJ3vF7MEoX_dDbDagEj1f1&amp;c=2jJJhjaRXmsaO2FK1y7BuyXB8-BZYLqjIPvKAxwhi-b0HYPddTaI1Q==&amp;ch=kRcP7-D0AjwaNu6LLMk0PlYWI4Y-ZbxQ55c99rlDgMhOZLSX1boMqA==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001k13lpC8yUtcPydXfrXj1qrA_9JCbV6bdbcJu4FClWIQGsFyTdeX6CfCB4W7w9VDr7E4SBeDPFeKewYjvjpnorUuYjNFPwc4jOva1X-SzvgEAlol910Xi_zEV3zI8Ct5fqJ_RpqODUZGpzoakeJIEEKzdBSVyO53E&amp;c=2jJJhjaRXmsaO2FK1y7BuyXB8-BZYLqjIPvKAxwhi-b0HYPddTaI1Q==&amp;ch=kRcP7-D0AjwaNu6LLMk0PlYWI4Y-ZbxQ55c99rlDgMhOZLSX1boMqA==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

Day 5, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report

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

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

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687790506499.jpeg" alt="Brandon Michael Hilliard, Unlawful damage to property; Failure to appear; Arrested 06/25/2023" />
 <figcaption>Brandon Michael Hilliard, Unlawful damage to property; Failure to appear; Arrested 06/25/2023</figcaption>
 </figure>Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos June 26

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

On Friday, police arrested 36-year-old Kimberly Kilgore of Manhattan on a Riley County District Court warrant for failure to appear, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

This warrant stems from an original charge of forgery. Kilgore was issued a total bond of $20,000 for this warrant and remains confined in the Riley County Jail.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged financial crimes in Manhattan.On Friday, police arrested 36-year-old Kimberly Kilgore of Manhattan on a Riley County District Court warrant for failure to appear, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.This warrant stems from an original charge of forgery. Kilgore was issued a total bond of $20,000 for this warrant and remains confined in the Riley County Jail.

Manhattan woman accused of forgery jailed for skipping court

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investing an alleged violent altercation in Manhattan.

Just after 1:30a.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for battery and criminal damage to property in the 500 block of N. Manhattan Ave. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 A 24-year-old man reported four unknown men punched and kicked him causing his eyeglasses to break before running away. The victim was transported to Via Christi for treatment of neck and head pain. 

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

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investing an alleged violent altercation in Manhattan.Just after 1:30a.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for battery and criminal damage to property in the 500 block of N. Manhattan Ave. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. A 24-year-old man reported four unknown men punched and kicked him causing his eyeglasses to break before running away. The victim was transported to Via Christi for treatment of neck and head pain. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: Man hospitalized after 4 suspects attacked him

Some officials have called Emporia State, reeling from layoffs and program upheaval, a test case for approach

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/rmipro/">RACHEL MIPRO</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The state Board of Regents unveiled a plan to identify and potentially chop academic programs they deem underperforming at all six of the state’s public universities, in what some warn could be a repeat of the contentious layoffs at Emporia State University.&nbsp;

Starting this summer, Regents staff will make a list of undergraduate academic programs that are more than five years old and fall short of two or more of the board’s chosen metrics for the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, Emporia State University, Fort Hays State University and Pittsburg State University.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6490bbfa-d4d8-4d7b-b490-2ffad4c755ce">RELATED STORY: FHSU provost: No faculty cuts planned in light of college reorganization</a>

Daniel Archer, vice president of student affairs with KBOR, said the focus on undergraduate programs was partly due to declining enrollment in a June 14 presentation.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4d1305d2-d547-4286-b892-d233575130d9">RELATED STORY: FHSU enrollment down 8%; NCK-Tech enrollment at five-year high</a>

“We’re diving into really a deep dive here into the undergraduate programs here,” Archer said. “Part of that’s because that’s where we lost youth. If you look at our enrollment declines, there’s been a greater impact on the undergraduate population.”

But Michael DeCesare, a senior program officer for American Association of University Professors, said “it would be a travesty” for the process used at Emporia State “to spread across the entire system.”

Program performance standards will include having 25 or more students enrolled in the program, producing more than 10 graduates from the program, having 51 percent or more of graduates working in the region after graduation and student return on investment. That return will be evaluated by having a salary of $38,050 or higher, a number determined by the five-year post graduation median salary for 2022.&nbsp;

In September, the Board of Academic Affairs Standing Committee will review the list of programs before turning the program list over to universities. The schools will have three options: axing the underperforming program, merging the undergraduate program with another program in a cost-effective way or to making an action plan for the program, buying it three years.

By March of 2024, all state universities will give their decisions to the committee, which will make the final call on whether the undergraduate program in question should be phased out, merged or put on an action plan. Over the following years, the universities will give reviews on the program’s progress and effectiveness.&nbsp;

Regents spokesman Matt Keith said the board used input from academic affairs leaders across the state universities in making the revised process.&nbsp;

“The Regents and state university leaders recognized that the process needed strengthening and began a thorough academic portfolio review last year,” Keith said. “Following the completion of that review earlier this year, the Board Academic Affairs Standing Committee worked with the state university provosts to revise the academic program review process and better align it with the Board’s strategic plan.”&nbsp;

Tanya Gonzalez, interim associate provost for institutional effectiveness at Kansas State University, said the review process was aligned well with the university’s pre-existing internal review process.&nbsp;

“Some advantages to KBOR’s updated program review process is that it asks institutions to develop meaningful processes for their internal review; make data-driven decisions; share those processes and outcomes with the Regents; and use program review success stories to external stakeholders,” Gonzalez said.&nbsp;

But others point to Emporia State’s realignment plan as an example of what could happen when the Regents are involved with program decisions.&nbsp;The university fired nearly three dozen faculty members,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/09/13/emporia-state-university-is-about-to-suspend-tenure-heres-why-you-should-care/">including those with tenure</a>, and eliminated English, journalism and other programs in 2022 due to programs not meeting certain metrics.&nbsp;

ESU also recently announced plans to merge several departments and programs, including merging the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences into their new School of Science &amp; Mathematics.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3998b4da-514c-41d4-8ae5-33aa6416fe49">Students and faculty raised concerns about consolidation at FHSU within the College of Art, Humanities and Social Sciences in spring 2022. However, that consolidation was completed as scheduled the following fall.</a>

The American Association of University Professors&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/aaup_EmporiaState_Final.pdf">investigation</a>&nbsp;found&nbsp; the actions taken by ESU president Ken Hush with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/09/14/emporia-state-receives-green-light-to-move-rapidly-with-faculty-program-realignment/">the KBOR support</a>&nbsp;were little more than an attack on academic freedom. The investigation concluded university administrators and Kansas Board of Regents members&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/05/01/emporia-state-university-kansas-board-of-regents-members-unfit-to-lead-investigation-finds/">are “unfit to lead.</a>”

Former ESU English professor Rachelle Smith, who worked at ESU for 28 years before her job was eliminated, said she and her colleagues saw the Regents’ actions at ESU as a test case.&nbsp;

“I’m not surprised that KBOR has come out with this decision,”&nbsp; Smith said. “We wondered and suspected that ESU was just the beginning of what would happen with the other regional schools in the state.”&nbsp;

Smith, who taught courses in indigenous literature and science fiction during her last semester at ESU, believed the firings and department dissolving were the result of political pressures due to a significant faction within the GOP-controlled state Legislature that disapproves of diversity and multicultural teaching.&nbsp;

She said the review process could be a convenient way for institutions to get rid of any curriculum they didn’t want taught.&nbsp;

“The individual institutions themselves can use that as an opportunity to get rid of people that they don’t want and to get rid of programs that they don’t want and to ensure that research goes in directions that they want,” Smith said.&nbsp;

DeCesare, who served as one of the ESU investigators for AAUPP, said it was difficult to trust the Regents’ intentions with other public universities. DeCesare said a board that had already “abused power in the recent past” shouldn’t be judging other academic programs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It was the board, as the report says, that initiated the process that assaulted tenure and imperiled academic freedom at ESU,” DeCesare said.

He warned that the bipartisan nine-person board, all of whom were appointed by Gov. Laura Kelly, could be prone to political pressures.&nbsp;

“When educators don’t make decisions anymore about what education looks like, and when those decisions are in the hands of presidents and provosts and governing board members instead, it just kind of begs for to create a system that is ripe for political interference, political pressure, ideological interference, and all kinds of things that have no place in an institution of higher education,” Decesare said.

For Smith, the timing of the review process is suspicious.&nbsp;

“I don’t think it is innocuous,” Smith said. “I think that the current board is working hand in hand with the state Legislature to enact political goals of a conservative nature.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687538649089.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;The Kansas Board of Regents unveiled an academic review process in June for all the public universities in the state. Some worry this could lead to situations such as the Emporia State University firings, where tenured staff and long-standing programs were cut abruptly. (Mason Hart for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;The Kansas Board of Regents unveiled an academic review process in June for all the public universities in the state. Some worry this could lead to situations such as the Emporia State University firings, where tenured staff and long-standing programs were cut abruptly. (Mason Hart for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Some officials have called Emporia State, reeling from layoffs and program upheaval, a test case for approach</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/rmipro/">RACHEL MIPRO</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The state Board of Regents unveiled a plan to identify and potentially chop academic programs they deem underperforming at all six of the state’s public universities, in what some warn could be a repeat of the contentious layoffs at Emporia State University.&nbsp;Starting this summer, Regents staff will make a list of undergraduate academic programs that are more than five years old and fall short of two or more of the board’s chosen metrics for the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, Emporia State University, Fort Hays State University and Pittsburg State University.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6490bbfa-d4d8-4d7b-b490-2ffad4c755ce">RELATED STORY: FHSU provost: No faculty cuts planned in light of college reorganization</a>Daniel Archer, vice president of student affairs with KBOR, said the focus on undergraduate programs was partly due to declining enrollment in a June 14 presentation.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4d1305d2-d547-4286-b892-d233575130d9">RELATED STORY: FHSU enrollment down 8%; NCK-Tech enrollment at five-year high</a>“We’re diving into really a deep dive here into the undergraduate programs here,” Archer said. “Part of that’s because that’s where we lost youth. If you look at our enrollment declines, there’s been a greater impact on the undergraduate population.”But Michael DeCesare, a senior program officer for American Association of University Professors, said “it would be a travesty” for the process used at Emporia State “to spread across the entire system.”Program performance standards will include having 25 or more students enrolled in the program, producing more than 10 graduates from the program, having 51 percent or more of graduates working in the region after graduation and student return on investment. That return will be evaluated by having a salary of $38,050 or higher, a number determined by the five-year post graduation median salary for 2022.&nbsp;In September, the Board of Academic Affairs Standing Committee will review the list of programs before turning the program list over to universities. The schools will have three options: axing the underperforming program, merging the undergraduate program with another program in a cost-effective way or to making an action plan for the program, buying it three years.By March of 2024, all state universities will give their decisions to the committee, which will make the final call on whether the undergraduate program in question should be phased out, merged or put on an action plan. Over the following years, the universities will give reviews on the program’s progress and effectiveness.&nbsp;Regents spokesman Matt Keith said the board used input from academic affairs leaders across the state universities in making the revised process.&nbsp;“The Regents and state university leaders recognized that the process needed strengthening and began a thorough academic portfolio review last year,” Keith said. “Following the completion of that review earlier this year, the Board Academic Affairs Standing Committee worked with the state university provosts to revise the academic program review process and better align it with the Board’s strategic plan.”&nbsp;Tanya Gonzalez, interim associate provost for institutional effectiveness at Kansas State University, said the review process was aligned well with the university’s pre-existing internal review process.&nbsp;“Some advantages to KBOR’s updated program review process is that it asks institutions to develop meaningful processes for their internal review; make data-driven decisions; share those processes and outcomes with the Regents; and use program review success stories to external stakeholders,” Gonzalez said.&nbsp;But others point to Emporia State’s realignment plan as an example of what could happen when the Regents are involved with program decisions.&nbsp;The university fired nearly three dozen faculty members,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/09/13/emporia-state-university-is-about-to-suspend-tenure-heres-why-you-should-care/">including those with tenure</a>, and eliminated English, journalism and other programs in 2022 due to programs not meeting certain metrics.&nbsp;ESU also recently announced plans to merge several departments and programs, including merging the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences into their new School of Science &amp; Mathematics.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3998b4da-514c-41d4-8ae5-33aa6416fe49">Students and faculty raised concerns about consolidation at FHSU within the College of Art, Humanities and Social Sciences in spring 2022. However, that consolidation was completed as scheduled the following fall.</a>The American Association of University Professors&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/aaup_EmporiaState_Final.pdf">investigation</a>&nbsp;found&nbsp; the actions taken by ESU president Ken Hush with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/09/14/emporia-state-receives-green-light-to-move-rapidly-with-faculty-program-realignment/">the KBOR support</a>&nbsp;were little more than an attack on academic freedom. The investigation concluded university administrators and Kansas Board of Regents members&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/05/01/emporia-state-university-kansas-board-of-regents-members-unfit-to-lead-investigation-finds/">are “unfit to lead.</a>”Former ESU English professor Rachelle Smith, who worked at ESU for 28 years before her job was eliminated, said she and her colleagues saw the Regents’ actions at ESU as a test case.&nbsp;“I’m not surprised that KBOR has come out with this decision,”&nbsp; Smith said. “We wondered and suspected that ESU was just the beginning of what would happen with the other regional schools in the state.”&nbsp;Smith, who taught courses in indigenous literature and science fiction during her last semester at ESU, believed the firings and department dissolving were the result of political pressures due to a significant faction within the GOP-controlled state Legislature that disapproves of diversity and multicultural teaching.&nbsp;She said the review process could be a convenient way for institutions to get rid of any curriculum they didn’t want taught.&nbsp;“The individual institutions themselves can use that as an opportunity to get rid of people that they don’t want and to get rid of programs that they don’t want and to ensure that research goes in directions that they want,” Smith said.&nbsp;DeCesare, who served as one of the ESU investigators for AAUPP, said it was difficult to trust the Regents’ intentions with other public universities. DeCesare said a board that had already “abused power in the recent past” shouldn’t be judging other academic programs.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It was the board, as the report says, that initiated the process that assaulted tenure and imperiled academic freedom at ESU,” DeCesare said.He warned that the bipartisan nine-person board, all of whom were appointed by Gov. Laura Kelly, could be prone to political pressures.&nbsp;“When educators don’t make decisions anymore about what education looks like, and when those decisions are in the hands of presidents and provosts and governing board members instead, it just kind of begs for to create a system that is ripe for political interference, political pressure, ideological interference, and all kinds of things that have no place in an institution of higher education,” Decesare said.For Smith, the timing of the review process is suspicious.&nbsp;“I don’t think it is innocuous,” Smith said. “I think that the current board is working hand in hand with the state Legislature to enact political goals of a conservative nature.”

‘I don’t think it’s innocuous’: Kansas Board of Regents’ process scrutinizes academic programs

Geary County Schools USD 475 will not be serving Public Lunch on July 3rd or 4th, according to&nbsp;Shelly Gunderson&nbsp;Director of Child Nutrition.

The Summer Lunch Program will restart on Wednesday,&nbsp; July 5th at Lincoln Elementary and Seitz Elementary 11:30 am to 12:30 p.m.&nbsp; The program is free to anyone ages 1 to 18 years old.&nbsp; There is no paperwork required.&nbsp; Meals must be consumed on site

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686328272580.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Geary County Schools USD 475 will not be serving Public Lunch on July 3rd or 4th, according to&nbsp;Shelly Gunderson&nbsp;Director of Child Nutrition.The Summer Lunch Program will restart on Wednesday,&nbsp; July 5th at Lincoln Elementary and Seitz Elementary 11:30 am to 12:30 p.m.&nbsp; The program is free to anyone ages 1 to 18 years old.&nbsp; There is no paperwork required.&nbsp; Meals must be consumed on site

USD 475 summer lunch holiday schedule

This past week we began the first official day of Summer and each day until a little before Christmas we will have less and less daylight. Of course, we also have the warmer weather and many summer time activities and in a little over a week we can enjoy the five days of the Freedom Fest JC Celebration in Heritage Park. Before long you will hear the fireworks in our community as we celebrate the 247th Birthday of the United States. Or you can go to Rathert Field and watch the Junction City Brigade play in this Historic Ball Park. However, at the same time, local units of government are moving towards the “Finish Line” in preparing and completing their budget for the coming year.

City staff has worked on the budget for the past three or so months. Of course, I always say that the budget is a “year-round, 365 day” activity. How the City funds are spent daily affect the amount of cash carryover remaining at the end of the year. The amount of cash carry-over is a “big thing”, but that is truer here in Junction City. All you have to do is to go back about 13 years ago when the City’s financial crisis was at its peak. There were times, I have been told, when the City had less than $100,000 in the bank at any given time and even making payroll was a struggle. In some of the “tough” years, the year-end cash was extremely low. As the result of a great financial plan in the early years, coupled with the discipline over the past 10 or so years, the debt has been paid done substantially and at the same time the year-end cash amount has moved “North”. When General Obligation debt decreases, less money is needed for debt service and can be used elsewhere. Yes, we have more street issues to address.

So how much Cash carry-over or reserve should a City have? We hear the argument that it needs to be kept to a lower, because it is not fair to taxpayers to have a large reserve and taxes could be kept lower. Ok, I can buy that, but on a personal basis we all try to have that “Rainy Day” fund when everything does not go as planned. Same goes for the City. As we discussed earlier this spring, the City has the General Fund for expenses such as Police, Fire, Streets, and Parks and Recreation. The basic revenue for these funds is from property taxes, sales taxes, transfers from enterprise funds, and Cash Carryover. Naturally we don’t want to depend on the Cash Carryover to spend each year as if it drops too much, we have to make up for it in the future with increasing taxes. As the City has worked to improve its financial status, the amount of carryover is greatly considered by rating agencies such as Standard and Poore’s. This rating affects the City’s ability to borrow funds. We all know that everything does not always go as planned and we have to be in a financial position to deal with it.

You often hear the basis of the General Fund budget it the assessed valuation that we recently received from the County Clerk’s Office. As of June 9, the 2023 valuation for Junction City is $214.098,235. The valuation will change some by the time property taxes are levied in November, but that change is minor. This valuation is an increase of $20,208,692 over the final valuation in 2022 that was set in November. Yes, it is an increase of 10.4%. We all have seen our County Assessed values of our properties grow the last couple of years and new construction also helps this amount to get higher. Last year the valuation grew by a bit over $17.5 million from the previous year. On the other hand, for the 10 years previous to 2022, the valuation has stayed flat and even decreased in some years.

Ok, I can hear it now. “Junction City has the highest taxes of any places around”. What is interesting is that comment is probably made in any community. If you just look at the City property taxes, you will have to show me that Junction City is higher than other comparable cities. Remember the property tax bill you receive every November is not only for City property taxes, but for the County, the School District, and there is a small portion for the State. As the largest City in Geary County, the property tax owners in Junction City will pay over 72% of the property taxes for Geary County for the 2024 Budget. Likewise, a large part of the taxes for the School District are paid by property owners in Junction City.

As the City attempts to grow, everyone benefits. The tax base in the City does increase but does as well for the County and the School District. When there is an expense Geary County, regardless of if it is in the Junction City portion of the County or 20 miles out in the rural area, the lion’s share of the tax revenue to fund this is from City property tax payers. Yes, growth is important to the City, but equally as important to others as well.

I have often said that the “Perfect Tax” is one that someone else pays and I don’t have too. Unfortunately, it just does not work that way. Yes, I may complain when I get my property valuation notices or when the tax bill arrives each November, but it is all needed to take care of the place where I live, work, and play.

This past week we began the first official day of Summer and each day until a little before Christmas we will have less and less daylight. Of course, we also have the warmer weather and many summer time activities and in a little over a week we can enjoy the five days of the Freedom Fest JC Celebration in Heritage Park. Before long you will hear the fireworks in our community as we celebrate the 247th Birthday of the United States. Or you can go to Rathert Field and watch the Junction City Brigade play in this Historic Ball Park. However, at the same time, local units of government are moving towards the “Finish Line” in preparing and completing their budget for the coming year.City staff has worked on the budget for the past three or so months. Of course, I always say that the budget is a “year-round, 365 day” activity. How the City funds are spent daily affect the amount of cash carryover remaining at the end of the year. The amount of cash carry-over is a “big thing”, but that is truer here in Junction City. All you have to do is to go back about 13 years ago when the City’s financial crisis was at its peak. There were times, I have been told, when the City had less than $100,000 in the bank at any given time and even making payroll was a struggle. In some of the “tough” years, the year-end cash was extremely low. As the result of a great financial plan in the early years, coupled with the discipline over the past 10 or so years, the debt has been paid done substantially and at the same time the year-end cash amount has moved “North”. When General Obligation debt decreases, less money is needed for debt service and can be used elsewhere. Yes, we have more street issues to address.So how much Cash carry-over or reserve should a City have? We hear the argument that it needs to be kept to a lower, because it is not fair to taxpayers to have a large reserve and taxes could be kept lower. Ok, I can buy that, but on a personal basis we all try to have that “Rainy Day” fund when everything does not go as planned. Same goes for the City. As we discussed earlier this spring, the City has the General Fund for expenses such as Police, Fire, Streets, and Parks and Recreation. The basic revenue for these funds is from property taxes, sales taxes, transfers from enterprise funds, and Cash Carryover. Naturally we don’t want to depend on the Cash Carryover to spend each year as if it drops too much, we have to make up for it in the future with increasing taxes. As the City has worked to improve its financial status, the amount of carryover is greatly considered by rating agencies such as Standard and Poore’s. This rating affects the City’s ability to borrow funds. We all know that everything does not always go as planned and we have to be in a financial position to deal with it.You often hear the basis of the General Fund budget it the assessed valuation that we recently received from the County Clerk’s Office. As of June 9, the 2023 valuation for Junction City is $214.098,235. The valuation will change some by the time property taxes are levied in November, but that change is minor. This valuation is an increase of $20,208,692 over the final valuation in 2022 that was set in November. Yes, it is an increase of 10.4%. We all have seen our County Assessed values of our properties grow the last couple of years and new construction also helps this amount to get higher. Last year the valuation grew by a bit over $17.5 million from the previous year. On the other hand, for the 10 years previous to 2022, the valuation has stayed flat and even decreased in some years.Ok, I can hear it now. “Junction City has the highest taxes of any places around”. What is interesting is that comment is probably made in any community. If you just look at the City property taxes, you will have to show me that Junction City is higher than other comparable cities. Remember the property tax bill you receive every November is not only for City property taxes, but for the County, the School District, and there is a small portion for the State. As the largest City in Geary County, the property tax owners in Junction City will pay over 72% of the property taxes for Geary County for the 2024 Budget. Likewise, a large part of the taxes for the School District are paid by property owners in Junction City.As the City attempts to grow, everyone benefits. The tax base in the City does increase but does as well for the County and the School District. When there is an expense Geary County, regardless of if it is in the Junction City portion of the County or 20 miles out in the rural area, the lion’s share of the tax revenue to fund this is from City property tax payers. Yes, growth is important to the City, but equally as important to others as well.I have often said that the “Perfect Tax” is one that someone else pays and I don’t have too. Unfortunately, it just does not work that way. Yes, I may complain when I get my property valuation notices or when the tax bill arrives each November, but it is all needed to take care of the place where I live, work, and play.

Five Fifteen Report, Allen Dinkel

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687709771768.jpeg" alt="Jasmine Jeannel Huezo, Failure to appear; Arrested 06/25/2023" />
 <figcaption>Jasmine Jeannel Huezo, Failure to appear; Arrested 06/25/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687709854088.jpeg" alt="Kevin Deshawn Seldon, Violation of a protection order; Arrested 06/25/2023" />
 <figcaption>Kevin Deshawn Seldon, Violation of a protection order; Arrested 06/25/2023</figcaption>
 </figure>Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos June 25

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687707902276.jpeg" alt="Daniel Joseph Henry, Failure to appear x2; Arrested 06/24/2023" />
 <figcaption>Daniel Joseph Henry, Failure to appear x2; Arrested 06/24/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687708021325.jpeg" alt="Nolan Michael Stutler, Failure to appear; Arrested on 06/23/2023" />
 <figcaption>Nolan Michael Stutler, Failure to appear; Arrested on 06/23/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687708125651.jpeg" alt="William Kenneth Taylor, Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony; theft or sexually motivated crime; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt; $1000; Criminal trespass; unknown circumstance; Theft &lt; $1,500 Pocket picking; Failure to appear; Probation violation x2; Arrested 06/23/2023" />
 <figcaption>William Kenneth Taylor, Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony; theft or sexually motivated crime; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt; $1000; Criminal trespass; unknown circumstance; Theft &lt; $1,500 Pocket picking; Failure to appear; Probation violation x2; Arrested 06/23/2023</figcaption>
 </figure>Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos June 24

By Pat Melgares K-State Research and Extension In rural America, talk about horsetails in a field conjures thoughts of farmhands in saddles, working cattle or checking on emerging crops.

When Kansas State University weed management specialist Sarah Lancaster gets questions about horsetails, however, the inquiry is probably not about four-legged farm animals.

“I like to call horsetails the dinosaurs of the plant world,” Lancaster said. “They’re a weed species that has literally been around since the times of the dinosaurs. That, in and of itself, should tell us why I get questions about it. They’re pretty tough and they’re very difficult to manage.”

Horsetail, also called mare’s tail, is a deep-rooted, invasive weed that spreads quickly, forming a dense carpet of foliage that crowds out more desirable plants, such as pasture grass.

“They look a lot like asparagus, actually,” Lancaster said. “They reproduce by spores, not seeds; they’re just a very different sort of plant. Many of the go-to herbicides don’t work on them.”

Lancaster said some past research studies indicate that 2,4-D or MCPA – a phenoxy herbicide similar to 2,4-D – can be effective in suppressing horsetail weeds. Newer studies report that picloram and metsulfuron may be helpful in reducing horsetail.

“But,” Lancaster said, “they’re going to come back, and so it’s going to take repeated herbicide applications in order to fully control them with chemistry.”

Research from Canada is uncovering other potential herbicide options, Lancaster said, “but there are not a lot of great herbicide options out there.”

Horsetails belong to the genus known as Equisetum, which means “living fossil.” Plants in that category tend to be found in wet areas, “so if you’re struggling with them in a cropping situation, one thing to think about is water management,” Lancaster said.

“Fortunately, we don’t find horsetail in production fields a lot,” she said. “Usually they are found in areas where drainage is poor and water stands for large parts of the year.”

For questions or to confirm whether a plant is horsetail or not, Lancaster is available by email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:slancaster@ksu.edu">slancaster@ksu.edu</a>.

Lancaster said she also routinely receives questions about poison hemlock and goatgrass this time of year.

Poison hemlock is – at its name suggests – highly poisonous. It is highly toxic to sheep, cattle, swine, horses and many other domestic animals, as well as humans. Hemlock “looks a lot like wild carrots,” Lancaster said, including a basal rosette and “lacy-looking leaves.”

“Poison hemlock will have red speckles on the stem once it starts to bolt,” Lancaster said. “If it’s in a pasture, you need to take care of it.”

Instinctively, she adds, cattle know to avoid poison hemlock based on having been around it: “So generally speaking, we don’t panic too much if we see poison hemlock, but if you’re someone who brings in cattle from another state or desirable forage is not available, it is more important to get rid of it or prevent cattle grazing in those areas.”

2,4-D and glyphosate products are effective on poison hemlock, Lancaster said.

Goatgrass is an ancestor of the red winter wheat varieties grown in Kansas, which means it’s particularly challenging to control in wheat fields and even in pastures, according to Lancaster.

Healthy wheat stands often out-compete jointed goatgrass, but drought through much of Kansas has provided an opportunity for jointed goatgrass to win some of those battles.

Lancaster said CoAXium wheat varieties – a production system that capitalizes on herbicide tolerant wheat -- are best for controlling jointed goatgrass.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687611074755.jpeg" alt="Horsetail has been around since the time of the dinosaurs, says K-State weed management specialist Sarah Lancaster. | Photo courtesy of Sarah Lancaster" />
 <figcaption>Horsetail has been around since the time of the dinosaurs, says K-State weed management specialist Sarah Lancaster. | Photo courtesy of Sarah Lancaster</figcaption>
 </figure>By Pat Melgares K-State Research and Extension In rural America, talk about horsetails in a field conjures thoughts of farmhands in saddles, working cattle or checking on emerging crops.When Kansas State University weed management specialist Sarah Lancaster gets questions about horsetails, however, the inquiry is probably not about four-legged farm animals.“I like to call horsetails the dinosaurs of the plant world,” Lancaster said. “They’re a weed species that has literally been around since the times of the dinosaurs. That, in and of itself, should tell us why I get questions about it. They’re pretty tough and they’re very difficult to manage.”Horsetail, also called mare’s tail, is a deep-rooted, invasive weed that spreads quickly, forming a dense carpet of foliage that crowds out more desirable plants, such as pasture grass.“They look a lot like asparagus, actually,” Lancaster said. “They reproduce by spores, not seeds; they’re just a very different sort of plant. Many of the go-to herbicides don’t work on them.”Lancaster said some past research studies indicate that 2,4-D or MCPA – a phenoxy herbicide similar to 2,4-D – can be effective in suppressing horsetail weeds. Newer studies report that picloram and metsulfuron may be helpful in reducing horsetail.“But,” Lancaster said, “they’re going to come back, and so it’s going to take repeated herbicide applications in order to fully control them with chemistry.”Research from Canada is uncovering other potential herbicide options, Lancaster said, “but there are not a lot of great herbicide options out there.”Horsetails belong to the genus known as Equisetum, which means “living fossil.” Plants in that category tend to be found in wet areas, “so if you’re struggling with them in a cropping situation, one thing to think about is water management,” Lancaster said.“Fortunately, we don’t find horsetail in production fields a lot,” she said. “Usually they are found in areas where drainage is poor and water stands for large parts of the year.”For questions or to confirm whether a plant is horsetail or not, Lancaster is available by email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:slancaster@ksu.edu">slancaster@ksu.edu</a>.Poison Hemlock and GoatgrassLancaster said she also routinely receives questions about poison hemlock and goatgrass this time of year.Poison hemlock is – at its name suggests – highly poisonous. It is highly toxic to sheep, cattle, swine, horses and many other domestic animals, as well as humans. Hemlock “looks a lot like wild carrots,” Lancaster said, including a basal rosette and “lacy-looking leaves.”“Poison hemlock will have red speckles on the stem once it starts to bolt,” Lancaster said. “If it’s in a pasture, you need to take care of it.”Instinctively, she adds, cattle know to avoid poison hemlock based on having been around it: “So generally speaking, we don’t panic too much if we see poison hemlock, but if you’re someone who brings in cattle from another state or desirable forage is not available, it is more important to get rid of it or prevent cattle grazing in those areas.”2,4-D and glyphosate products are effective on poison hemlock, Lancaster said.Goatgrass is an ancestor of the red winter wheat varieties grown in Kansas, which means it’s particularly challenging to control in wheat fields and even in pastures, according to Lancaster.Healthy wheat stands often out-compete jointed goatgrass, but drought through much of Kansas has provided an opportunity for jointed goatgrass to win some of those battles.Lancaster said CoAXium wheat varieties – a production system that capitalizes on herbicide tolerant wheat -- are best for controlling jointed goatgrass.

K-State weed expert shares tips for common pasture problems

RENO COUNTY–&nbsp;A six-month investigation by Riley County detectives led to the arrest of Caleb Perry, 32, of Manhattan on Friday in connection to the murder of a 42-year-old woman in Manhattan, according to a media release from the RCPD.

On January 8, 2023, around 1:30 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 1300 block of Flint Hills Pl. for a welfare check. After arriving, officers found Takeera Griffin dead in her apartment, and Perry on scene.

A meticulous investigation by detectives revealed Perry had lied about the circumstances leading up to and causing Griffin’s death. Further investigation determined Griffin’s cause of death, initially unclear, was a homicide. Perry is also reported to have accessed a financial account belonging to Griffin after her death.

Perry was already confined in the Riley County Jail for unrelated charges when he was arrested around 5:15 p.m. on Friday, June 23, 2023, for first-degree murder, criminal use of a financial card, and three counts of interference with law enforcement.

He was issued a bond of $1 million for these charges and remains confined with a total bond of $1,016,000.&nbsp;Perry has previous convictions for aggravated battery and domestic battery, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687575710394.png" alt="Perry has previous convictions for aggravated battery and domestic battery, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Perry has previous convictions for aggravated battery and domestic battery, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY–&nbsp;A six-month investigation by Riley County detectives led to the arrest of Caleb Perry, 32, of Manhattan on Friday in connection to the murder of a 42-year-old woman in Manhattan, according to a media release from the RCPD.On January 8, 2023, around 1:30 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 1300 block of Flint Hills Pl. for a welfare check. After arriving, officers found Takeera Griffin dead in her apartment, and Perry on scene.A meticulous investigation by detectives revealed Perry had lied about the circumstances leading up to and causing Griffin’s death. Further investigation determined Griffin’s cause of death, initially unclear, was a homicide. Perry is also reported to have accessed a financial account belonging to Griffin after her death.Perry was already confined in the Riley County Jail for unrelated charges when he was arrested around 5:15 p.m. on Friday, June 23, 2023, for first-degree murder, criminal use of a financial card, and three counts of interference with law enforcement.He was issued a bond of $1 million for these charges and remains confined with a total bond of $1,016,000.&nbsp;Perry has previous convictions for aggravated battery and domestic battery, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

6-month Investigation: Manhattan man accused of murder

JUNCTION CITY - After 30 years of serving the Junction City/Geary County communities as a dispatcher, Craig Green is set to retire at the end of June.

The community is invited to celebrate the career and service of Dispatcher Craig Green on Friday, June 30th from 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm at the Junction City Police Department

by BECKY GOFF JC PostJUNCTION CITY - After 30 years of serving the Junction City/Geary County communities as a dispatcher, Craig Green is set to retire at the end of June.The community is invited to celebrate the career and service of Dispatcher Craig Green on Friday, June 30th from 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm at the Junction City Police Department<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687539145808.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d23003.695079569232!2d-96.5640192!3d39.1814421!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bc4950dedd65cf%3A0x8b67f23fb636782b!2s210%20E%209th%20St%2C%20Junction%20City%2C%20KS%2066441!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1687539224493!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>

JCPD: Dispatcher Green retiring after 30 years of service to community

JUNCTION CITY - On June 26th through June 30th, the Konza Prairie Community Health Center is partnering with the community for a food drive to restock blessing boxes in Junction City.

There are four drop-off locations for donations:

-Konza Prairie Community Health Center (<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/WX215767H7eWZ8Vm7">361 Grant Avenue</a>): Monday through Thursday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm and Friday from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm

-Episcopal Church of the Covenant (<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/wXED9kvB4Hbx6A1p9">314 N Adams</a>): Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm

-First United Methodist Church (<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/1vgihhBqmLPDv8ob9">804 N Jefferson</a>): Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

-Second Missionary Baptist Church (<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/jXjikPF9KD4TjePt5">701 W 10th</a>): Monday through Thursday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

A blessing box is a small food pantry which provides easy access to non-perishable food.

Blessing boxes allow people to get food they need when they have no other resources.&nbsp;

Items to donate to the blessing boxes include: canned fruits and veggies(with pop-open tops); Rice and canned beans(with pop-open tops); Peanut butter and jelly; Pasta and sauce; Oatmeal and cereal.

The full wish list for the blessing boxes <a href="https://kpchc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Wish_list.jpg">can be found here</a>.

Free meals are provided on weekdays for children up to age 18 during the summer with no registration or paperwork required.

• Geary USD 475 Free Summer Lunch Program is free to all kids 1-18 years old, no matter where they attend school. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=578481064405934&amp;set=a.394902042763838">Find locations, dates, and times here</a>.

• Junction City Family YMCA summer food program provides an afternoon snack and dinner for all youth age 18 or under. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JunctionCityFamilyYmca">Find details and menus here</a>.

by BECKY GOFF JC Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687539447268.jpeg" alt="Konza Cupboard blessing box at 361 Grant Avenue, Junction City, Photo courtesy Konza Prairie Community Health Center" />
 <figcaption>Konza Cupboard blessing box at 361 Grant Avenue, Junction City, Photo courtesy Konza Prairie Community Health Center</figcaption>
 </figure>JUNCTION CITY - On June 26th through June 30th, the Konza Prairie Community Health Center is partnering with the community for a food drive to restock blessing boxes in Junction City.There are four drop-off locations for donations:-Konza Prairie Community Health Center (<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/WX215767H7eWZ8Vm7">361 Grant Avenue</a>): Monday through Thursday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm and Friday from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2880.7885465857858!2d-96.82562952432882!3d39.04227127169353!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bc4be36a0f35b7%3A0x923b68237097455d!2s361%20Grant%20Ave%2C%20Junction%20City%2C%20KS%2066441!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1687545445025!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>-Episcopal Church of the Covenant (<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/wXED9kvB4Hbx6A1p9">314 N Adams</a>): Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2881.5978244121825!2d-96.83635582432963!3d39.025945071696945!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bc494d3fee3ef7%3A0xf412dfb5dad9965d!2s314%20N%20Adams%20St%2C%20Junction%20City%2C%20KS%2066441!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1687545866062!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>-First United Methodist Church (<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/1vgihhBqmLPDv8ob9">804 N Jefferson</a>): Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2881.4059076958915!2d-96.83453442432935!3d39.03065277169592!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bc4953a51a2a61%3A0x231a74b7c4a5326b!2s804%20N%20Jefferson%20St%2C%20Junction%20City%2C%20KS%2066441!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1687546367874!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>-Second Missionary Baptist Church (<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/jXjikPF9KD4TjePt5">701 W 10th</a>): Monday through Thursday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2881.33986953018!2d-96.84389332432929!3d39.03227257169546!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bc4ea94e8238ef%3A0xdb7127ad6d1a70b2!2s701%20W%2010th%20St%2C%20Junction%20City%2C%20KS%2066441!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1687546630134!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>A blessing box is a small food pantry which provides easy access to non-perishable food.Blessing boxes allow people to get food they need when they have no other resources.&nbsp;Items to donate to the blessing boxes include: canned fruits and veggies(with pop-open tops); Rice and canned beans(with pop-open tops); Peanut butter and jelly; Pasta and sauce; Oatmeal and cereal.The full wish list for the blessing boxes <a href="https://kpchc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Wish_list.jpg">can be found here</a>.Free meals are provided on weekdays for children up to age 18 during the summer with no registration or paperwork required.• Geary USD 475 Free Summer Lunch Program is free to all kids 1-18 years old, no matter where they attend school. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=578481064405934&amp;set=a.394902042763838">Find locations, dates, and times here</a>.• Junction City Family YMCA summer food program provides an afternoon snack and dinner for all youth age 18 or under. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JunctionCityFamilyYmca">Find details and menus here</a>.

Food drive to benefit blessing boxes will be held June 26th - June 30th

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Denise Schmidt, director for Tri-County Special Services Cooperative.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lmslRotp94A" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Denise Schmidt, director for Tri-County Special Services Cooperative.

Forward Ever: USD 112 disorganization vote, part 2

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687537040636.jpeg" alt="Trevor Alexander Berry, Failure to appear; Arrested 06/22/2023" />
 <figcaption>Trevor Alexander Berry, Failure to appear; Arrested 06/22/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687537084669.jpeg" alt="Thomas Albert Carter, Probation Violation, Arrested 06/23/2023" />
 <figcaption>Thomas Albert Carter, Probation Violation, Arrested 06/23/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687537220834.jpeg" alt="Frances Barrette Cleveland, Failure to appear; Arrested 06/22/2023" />
 <figcaption>Frances Barrette Cleveland, Failure to appear; Arrested 06/22/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687537566737.jpeg" alt="Julie Marie Finch, Domestic battery; Knowing rude physical contact w/family member or dating relationship; Arrested 06/23/2023" />
 <figcaption>Julie Marie Finch, Domestic battery; Knowing rude physical contact w/family member or dating relationship; Arrested 06/23/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687537879933.jpeg" alt="Teairra Nicole Harris, Abandoment of a child; Less than 16 YOA; Arrested 06/23/2023" />
 <figcaption>Teairra Nicole Harris, Abandoment of a child; Less than 16 YOA; Arrested 06/23/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687537934354.jpeg" alt="Eric Burnette Harris Johnson, Failure to appear; Arrested 06/22/2023" />
 <figcaption>Eric Burnette Harris Johnson, Failure to appear; Arrested 06/22/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687537975402.jpeg" alt="Maurice Larhon Jones, Driving while suspended; 1st conviction; Arrested 06/22/2023" />
 <figcaption>Maurice Larhon Jones, Driving while suspended; 1st conviction; Arrested 06/22/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687538039326.jpeg" alt="Gary Lee Papke, Criminal threat; Unknown circumstance; Arrested 06/23/2023" />
 <figcaption>Gary Lee Papke, Criminal threat; Unknown circumstance; Arrested 06/23/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687538090265.jpeg" alt="Destiny Lashae Thomas, Failure to appear; Arrested 06/22/2023" />
 <figcaption>Destiny Lashae Thomas, Failure to appear; Arrested 06/22/2023</figcaption>
 </figure>Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos June 23

BY JULIA DEBES Kansas Wheat Commission&nbsp; This is day four 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.

At any other time of the year, rain would be more than welcome. But for farmers with combines ready to roll, harvest delays due to rain add insult to injury for a crop stricken by drought. For some, however, rains arrived just in time to fill grain heads, resulting in better-than-expected final results.&nbsp;

Near Americus, America, harvest is in full swing for Jacqueline Leffler. Starting strong at the beginning of the week, fields are averaging 50-70 bushels per acre - a welcome result given the dry year. Quality is excellent with high test weights at 61 to 62.5 pounds per bushel and protein at 13.1 percent. The outstanding variety for the year is the aptly named Polansky Rockstar. She expects to wrap up harvest with three or four more big days.&nbsp;

“I am pleasantly surprised with how this year’s harvest is going,” Leffler said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Only four or five producers are cutting near Delphos in Ottawa County, according to Brett Courson, general manager of the Delphos Coop Association. Results thus far are coming in&nbsp;at 10 to 20&nbsp;bushels per acre with fairly poor test weights, but protein is averaging 15 percent and no dockage.&nbsp;

The wheat is ripe, but the straw is still a little tough. Courson expects producers who applied fungicide won’t start harvesting for another eight to 10 days, but that wheat should be better and could average up closer to 40 bushels per acre.&nbsp;

The variability in the wheat crop reflects the timing of moisture this season. The wheat was stressed until heading out with moisture seven to eight inches short. Then the rain started to fall and helped fill kernels. Unfortunately, the area had a considerable amount of freeze damage, which was sporadic at first, but then yellow and white heads started to spread out across fields.&nbsp;

“There are fields that look pretty good, but you go out in them and there might only be seven to eight kernels in the head, but the next head has 30,” Courson said.&nbsp;

Delphos Coop Association is hoping to bring in around 500,000 bushels, about half of their normal amount. The majority of that wheat is destined for flour mills in the Kansas City area.&nbsp;

The Kansas Wheat team caught up with Tim Turek near South Haven in Sumner County&nbsp;on Tuesday evening&nbsp;before rains halted harvest progress&nbsp;on Wednesday morning. Having started harvest on June 15, Turek reported yields are about half of average, but a field of continuous wheat planted to AP18 AX from AgriPro yielded 50 bushels per acre. Test weights ahead of the rain were heavy at more than 60 pounds per bushel and protein was excellent&nbsp;at 12 to 16&nbsp;percent.&nbsp;

The wheat had a good stand last fall but was still hampered by drought conditions. The crop needed a good rain at heading, but three weeks without appreciable moisture meant the stands lost tillers. Not all hope was lost, however, as rain did fall.

“Then the cool and damp weather came in and allowed a lot of good grain fill for the heads we had,” Turek said. “The grain fill is what has made our yields.”

Now, though, the recent rain is preventing harvest from kicking into full swing. The moisture also means weeds are coming in, and producers are trying to get fields cut before they take over. Turek expects harvest to last another two weeks.&nbsp;

He is a certified seed grower, but what isn’t saved for next fall’s planting will be delivered to Scoular in Wellington. There, preferred varieties will be sent on to Grain Craft flour mill.&nbsp;

Turek’s family has been farming in the area since his great-great-grandfather moved from Nebraska to Oklahoma during the historic land run. His great-grandfather moved into southern Kansas in the 1920s and bought five quarters of ground. That land is still being farmed, along with other acres in the area, by Turek, his daughter Paige, his father and his brother.&nbsp;

“We all work together,” he said. “Jill, my wife, keeps us fed.”

﻿More rain is expected&nbsp;Thursday night&nbsp;into&nbsp;Friday morning, likely to slow harvest progress. Stay tuned for the next harvest report&nbsp;on Monday, June 26, as the Kansas Wheat crew catches up with more elevators and growers across the state.&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&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yE_4NfrmhSB2x8K6Vn66kxDZqzAM-mfnYNYTvB8e1l4aJtNGFaOeCui3XHSJknabz6tGxq817vAeCsCi-G_rD5dzJ1VcR7lf27WI6tISRDEnQG6TdZ0vc0JcXu3u1F4ixb4hgFWaR3qwQlxUcDoae9UFitORR04q&amp;c=be1ud_2nV5GL6cqXfgiKptcQvX7SFwLn143ytsoPk2t3fcwJklvyiQ==&amp;ch=5xJ9u3swVYj7r3cTm_93roVgVmXR_iDAg3bBFW-bSsOrPfULUmv51Q==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yE_4NfrmhSB2x8K6Vn66kxDZqzAM-mfnYNYTvB8e1l4aJtNGFaOeCienPsx3eFWlchCmZgype3jxXj0UtJpSscJzAm_76OQAXgD1D6eAT7m3IAmZLQFrpKlS6M7R-PlTHFIbhQghCW6vKjaP70IJ-5UlJtCR84GA&amp;c=be1ud_2nV5GL6cqXfgiKptcQvX7SFwLn143ytsoPk2t3fcwJklvyiQ==&amp;ch=5xJ9u3swVYj7r3cTm_93roVgVmXR_iDAg3bBFW-bSsOrPfULUmv51Q==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yE_4NfrmhSB2x8K6Vn66kxDZqzAM-mfnYNYTvB8e1l4aJtNGFaOeCuwTzmTTR7c8AzUED7XEjZm9g5EjRQaPFBkkPcUXdJcHZHthxm3GJt9JAf6VBQCqbHNwOcwJA9f56XpqmY7t3o_NmgYuP8AY2uE-j-pxt5Uh&amp;c=be1ud_2nV5GL6cqXfgiKptcQvX7SFwLn143ytsoPk2t3fcwJklvyiQ==&amp;ch=5xJ9u3swVYj7r3cTm_93roVgVmXR_iDAg3bBFW-bSsOrPfULUmv51Q==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687480701620.png" alt="2023 Wheat Harvest Day Four. Image Courtesy Kansas Wheat " />
 <figcaption>2023 Wheat Harvest Day Four. Image Courtesy Kansas Wheat </figcaption>
 </figure>BY JULIA DEBES Kansas Wheat Commission&nbsp; This is day four 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.At any other time of the year, rain would be more than welcome. But for farmers with combines ready to roll, harvest delays due to rain add insult to injury for a crop stricken by drought. For some, however, rains arrived just in time to fill grain heads, resulting in better-than-expected final results.&nbsp;Near Americus, America, harvest is in full swing for Jacqueline Leffler. Starting strong at the beginning of the week, fields are averaging 50-70 bushels per acre - a welcome result given the dry year. Quality is excellent with high test weights at 61 to 62.5 pounds per bushel and protein at 13.1 percent. The outstanding variety for the year is the aptly named Polansky Rockstar. She expects to wrap up harvest with three or four more big days.&nbsp;“I am pleasantly surprised with how this year’s harvest is going,” Leffler said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Only four or five producers are cutting near Delphos in Ottawa County, according to Brett Courson, general manager of the Delphos Coop Association. Results thus far are coming in&nbsp;at 10 to 20&nbsp;bushels per acre with fairly poor test weights, but protein is averaging 15 percent and no dockage.&nbsp;The wheat is ripe, but the straw is still a little tough. Courson expects producers who applied fungicide won’t start harvesting for another eight to 10 days, but that wheat should be better and could average up closer to 40 bushels per acre.&nbsp;The variability in the wheat crop reflects the timing of moisture this season. The wheat was stressed until heading out with moisture seven to eight inches short. Then the rain started to fall and helped fill kernels. Unfortunately, the area had a considerable amount of freeze damage, which was sporadic at first, but then yellow and white heads started to spread out across fields.&nbsp;“There are fields that look pretty good, but you go out in them and there might only be seven to eight kernels in the head, but the next head has 30,” Courson said.&nbsp;Delphos Coop Association is hoping to bring in around 500,000 bushels, about half of their normal amount. The majority of that wheat is destined for flour mills in the Kansas City area.&nbsp;The Kansas Wheat team caught up with Tim Turek near South Haven in Sumner County&nbsp;on Tuesday evening&nbsp;before rains halted harvest progress&nbsp;on Wednesday morning. Having started harvest on June 15, Turek reported yields are about half of average, but a field of continuous wheat planted to AP18 AX from AgriPro yielded 50 bushels per acre. Test weights ahead of the rain were heavy at more than 60 pounds per bushel and protein was excellent&nbsp;at 12 to 16&nbsp;percent.&nbsp;The wheat had a good stand last fall but was still hampered by drought conditions. The crop needed a good rain at heading, but three weeks without appreciable moisture meant the stands lost tillers. Not all hope was lost, however, as rain did fall.“Then the cool and damp weather came in and allowed a lot of good grain fill for the heads we had,” Turek said. “The grain fill is what has made our yields.”Now, though, the recent rain is preventing harvest from kicking into full swing. The moisture also means weeds are coming in, and producers are trying to get fields cut before they take over. Turek expects harvest to last another two weeks.&nbsp;He is a certified seed grower, but what isn’t saved for next fall’s planting will be delivered to Scoular in Wellington. There, preferred varieties will be sent on to Grain Craft flour mill.&nbsp;Turek’s family has been farming in the area since his great-great-grandfather moved from Nebraska to Oklahoma during the historic land run. His great-grandfather moved into southern Kansas in the 1920s and bought five quarters of ground. That land is still being farmed, along with other acres in the area, by Turek, his daughter Paige, his father and his brother.&nbsp;“We all work together,” he said. “Jill, my wife, keeps us fed.”﻿More rain is expected&nbsp;Thursday night&nbsp;into&nbsp;Friday morning, likely to slow harvest progress. Stay tuned for the next harvest report&nbsp;on Monday, June 26, as the Kansas Wheat crew catches up with more elevators and growers across the state.&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&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yE_4NfrmhSB2x8K6Vn66kxDZqzAM-mfnYNYTvB8e1l4aJtNGFaOeCui3XHSJknabz6tGxq817vAeCsCi-G_rD5dzJ1VcR7lf27WI6tISRDEnQG6TdZ0vc0JcXu3u1F4ixb4hgFWaR3qwQlxUcDoae9UFitORR04q&amp;c=be1ud_2nV5GL6cqXfgiKptcQvX7SFwLn143ytsoPk2t3fcwJklvyiQ==&amp;ch=5xJ9u3swVYj7r3cTm_93roVgVmXR_iDAg3bBFW-bSsOrPfULUmv51Q==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yE_4NfrmhSB2x8K6Vn66kxDZqzAM-mfnYNYTvB8e1l4aJtNGFaOeCienPsx3eFWlchCmZgype3jxXj0UtJpSscJzAm_76OQAXgD1D6eAT7m3IAmZLQFrpKlS6M7R-PlTHFIbhQghCW6vKjaP70IJ-5UlJtCR84GA&amp;c=be1ud_2nV5GL6cqXfgiKptcQvX7SFwLn143ytsoPk2t3fcwJklvyiQ==&amp;ch=5xJ9u3swVYj7r3cTm_93roVgVmXR_iDAg3bBFW-bSsOrPfULUmv51Q==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yE_4NfrmhSB2x8K6Vn66kxDZqzAM-mfnYNYTvB8e1l4aJtNGFaOeCuwTzmTTR7c8AzUED7XEjZm9g5EjRQaPFBkkPcUXdJcHZHthxm3GJt9JAf6VBQCqbHNwOcwJA9f56XpqmY7t3o_NmgYuP8AY2uE-j-pxt5Uh&amp;c=be1ud_2nV5GL6cqXfgiKptcQvX7SFwLn143ytsoPk2t3fcwJklvyiQ==&amp;ch=5xJ9u3swVYj7r3cTm_93roVgVmXR_iDAg3bBFW-bSsOrPfULUmv51Q==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

Day 4, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report

RILEY COUNTY —&nbsp;On Thursday, police took three individuals into custody on Pottawatomie County District Court warrants in connection to the suspected fentanyl-related death of an 18-year-old man at a hotel in Manhattan on March 11, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

Noah Baker, 19, of Junction City; McKaine Farr, 21, of Wamego and Shawn Samuelson, 22, of Manhattan were all arrested on requested charges that include distribution of a controlled substance causing death. 

Baker was arrested in Junction City with assistance from the Junction City Police Department. Farr was arrested in rural Wamego with assistance from the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office. Samuelson was already confined in the Riley County Jail on unrelated charges and is being held on detainer for the distribution charge.

During a subsequent search warrant at Farr’s location, additional suspected fentanyl was seized.

Baker and Farr are currently confined at the Pottawatomie County Jail, Farr is being held on no bond and Baker with a $25,000 bond. Samuelson remains confined in the Riley County Jail.

RILEY COUNTY —&nbsp;On Thursday, police took three individuals into custody on Pottawatomie County District Court warrants in connection to the suspected fentanyl-related death of an 18-year-old man at a hotel in Manhattan on March 11, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.Noah Baker, 19, of Junction City; McKaine Farr, 21, of Wamego and Shawn Samuelson, 22, of Manhattan were all arrested on requested charges that include distribution of a controlled substance causing death. Baker was arrested in Junction City with assistance from the Junction City Police Department. Farr was arrested in rural Wamego with assistance from the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office. Samuelson was already confined in the Riley County Jail on unrelated charges and is being held on detainer for the distribution charge.During a subsequent search warrant at Farr’s location, additional suspected fentanyl was seized.Baker and Farr are currently confined at the Pottawatomie County Jail, Farr is being held on no bond and Baker with a $25,000 bond. Samuelson remains confined in the Riley County Jail.

Junction City man accused in suspected fentanyl-related death

The 11U Junction City Blues Baseball Team wrapped up their season with a record of 32-11. The team placed 1st in PG Topeka All Turf Open, 1st PG Wildcat Classic, 1st PG Lil' Apple Open, and brought home 2nd place in the PG State Tournament.&nbsp; &nbsp;The Junction City Blues Baseball Club will be hosting tryouts on July 22nd for their upcoming 2023-2024 season, for 7U - 12U players.&nbsp; Tryouts will be held at North Park in Junction City, KS. Follow the Junction City Blues Baseball Club Facebook page or contact Nate Boeckman at 785-313-5434 for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687531854058.jpeg" alt="Junction City Blues" />
 <figcaption>Junction City Blues</figcaption>
 </figure> Submitted&nbsp;The 11U Junction City Blues Baseball Team wrapped up their season with a record of 32-11. The team placed 1st in PG Topeka All Turf Open, 1st PG Wildcat Classic, 1st PG Lil' Apple Open, and brought home 2nd place in the PG State Tournament.&nbsp; &nbsp;The Junction City Blues Baseball Club will be hosting tryouts on July 22nd for their upcoming 2023-2024 season, for 7U - 12U players.&nbsp; Tryouts will be held at North Park in Junction City, KS. Follow the Junction City Blues Baseball Club Facebook page or contact Nate Boeckman at 785-313-5434 for more information.

Junction City Blues wraps up its successful season

"Coffee Talk," a brand new radio program hosted by Jerry Brecheisen debuts tomorrow (Friday, June 23rd) on 107.9 FM/1420 KJCK.  The show, airing Fridays 8:00-8:30 a.m. will feature conversations with local community members on a wide range of topics including events, activities, programs, special projects, services, business activities and many more.

The weekly show is sponsored by <a href="https://www.paradoxcoffeeandbistro.com/">Paradox Coffee &amp; Bistro </a>here in Junction City owned by Teran and Tiffany Naccarato and Derrick and Tammy Melton.&nbsp; Tiffany, a nurse practioner with the Salina Health System Concordia Branch and Tammy, Junction City Clerk will be our&nbsp; guests for the first program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687437863821.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"Coffee Talk," a brand new radio program hosted by Jerry Brecheisen debuts tomorrow (Friday, June 23rd) on 107.9 FM/1420 KJCK. The show, airing Fridays 8:00-8:30 a.m. will feature conversations with local community members on a wide range of topics including events, activities, programs, special projects, services, business activities and many more.The weekly show is sponsored by <a href="https://www.paradoxcoffeeandbistro.com/">Paradox Coffee &amp; Bistro </a>here in Junction City owned by Teran and Tiffany Naccarato and Derrick and Tammy Melton.&nbsp; Tiffany, a nurse practioner with the Salina Health System Concordia Branch and Tammy, Junction City Clerk will be our&nbsp; guests for the first program.

New 107.9 FM/1420 KJCK show debuts Friday

by BECKY GOFF JC Post/Little Apple Post

JUNCTION CITY - The Junction City Fire Department has announced the upcoming retirement of JCFD Engineer, Tim Dokken.

Dokken was hired on April 24th, 1994 as a Firefighter/EMT.&nbsp;

Over the course of his 29 year career, he was promoted to the rank of Engineer.

On Friday, June 30th, the public is invited to celebrate Dokken's service to the community and his retirement.

A reception will be held at the City Municipal Gymnasium, 700 N Jefferson Street, from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687469866070.png" alt="Tim Dokken, photo from JCFD" />
 <figcaption>Tim Dokken, photo from JCFD</figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF JC Post/Little Apple PostJUNCTION CITY - The Junction City Fire Department has announced the upcoming retirement of JCFD Engineer, Tim Dokken.Dokken was hired on April 24th, 1994 as a Firefighter/EMT.&nbsp;Over the course of his 29 year career, he was promoted to the rank of Engineer.On Friday, June 30th, the public is invited to celebrate Dokken's service to the community and his retirement.A reception will be held at the City Municipal Gymnasium, 700 N Jefferson Street, from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2837.355548009205!2d-96.8320013!3d39.029637!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bc495253487505%3A0xf55737d68dca47b8!2s700%20N%20Jefferson%20St%2C%20Junction%20City%2C%20KS%2066441!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1687470628259!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>

JCFD Engineer retiring after serving community for 29 years

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687460456554.jpeg" alt="Rakari Jermaine Coleman, Criminal possession of a weapon; convicted of person felony other than those in (a)(3)(A)(i); Violate offender registration act; 3 or more convictions; non-person; Arrested 06/22/2023" />
 <figcaption>Rakari Jermaine Coleman, Criminal possession of a weapon; convicted of person felony other than those in (a)(3)(A)(i); Violate offender registration act; 3 or more convictions; non-person; Arrested 06/22/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687460709944.jpeg" alt="Amanda Dawn Defulvio, Failure to appear, Arrested 06/22/2023" />
 <figcaption>Amanda Dawn Defulvio, Failure to appear, Arrested 06/22/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687461020551.jpeg" alt="Lariscia Maylynn Lane, Possession of stolen property; Value $1,500 to $25,000; Arrested 06/21/2023" />
 <figcaption>Lariscia Maylynn Lane, Possession of stolen property; Value $1,500 to $25,000; Arrested 06/21/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687461093966.jpeg" alt="Philip Governor Locklear, Probation Violation; Arrested 06/21/2023" />
 <figcaption>Philip Governor Locklear, Probation Violation; Arrested 06/21/2023</figcaption>
 </figure>Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos June 22

MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged criminal damage to property in Manhattan.

Just after 5p.m. Wednesday, officers filed a report for criminal damage to property in the 300 block of S. 4th St. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The Fraternal Order of Eagles was listed as the victim when it was reported the glass entry door to their establishment was damaged causing approximately $500 in loss.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687447642286.png" alt="Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers.</a>&nbsp;Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.-Google image" />
 <figcaption>Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers.</a>&nbsp;Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.-Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged criminal damage to property in Manhattan.Just after 5p.m. Wednesday, officers filed a report for criminal damage to property in the 300 block of S. 4th St. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The Fraternal Order of Eagles was listed as the victim when it was reported the glass entry door to their establishment was damaged causing approximately $500 in loss. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers.</a>&nbsp;Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: $500 door damaged at Fraternal Order of Eagles

It’s a busy time for farmers in Kansas, with wheat harvest underway. The Kansas Highway Patrol would like to remind motorists to use more caution and patience when traveling around farm trucks, tractors, combines, and other implements, according to a media release from the agency.

“With wheat harvest season soon beginning, you’ll see heavy farm implement and truck traffic moving in and out of Kansas wheat fields and on to Kansas roadways. It’s important to remember that traveling around these vehicles requires extra caution. By taking your time and giving farm and heavy equipment plenty of room on the roadways, you can help ensure that yourself, your loved ones, and our Kansas farmers all make it home safely,” said Captain Candice Breshears, KHP Public Information Officer.

Most farm equipment is not designed to travel at highway speeds and may only travel 15-25 mph. Farm equipment is often wider than the lane of traffic, so extra room should be allowed when sharing the road. Caution should be practiced on all roads, but especially on busy rural roads with unmarked intersections.

Most farmers regularly check for vehicles behind them, however, most of their time must be spent looking ahead to stay on the road and watch for oncoming traffic. Implements are very loud, hindering their ability to hear your vehicle.

Don’t pass unless you can see clearly ahead of both your vehicle and the equipment you are passing. If there are curves or hills blocking your view, wait until you can clearly visualize the area you are passing in. You should not pass in a designated “No Passing Zone,” even if you are stuck behind a farm vehicle. Do not pass if you are within 100 feet of any intersection, railroad grade crossing, bridge, elevated structure, or tunnel.

Due to the size of some farm equipment, the farmer must execute wide left turns, so allow it plenty of room and time to turn and be alert to see if there might be a driveway or field they may be turning into.

Don’t assume that a farmer can move aside to let you pass. Shoulders may be soft, wet, or steep, which can cause the farm vehicle to tip, or the shoulder may not support the weight of a heavy farm vehicle. They understand you are being delayed and will move over at the first safe location available.

When you see the slow-moving vehicle emblem, immediately slow down. While the emblems are visible from a long distance, it is difficult to judge the speed at which you are closing in on the vehicle, especially at night.

When you are not focused solely on the road, you increase your chances of a collision, especially if you should come upon a slow-moving farm vehicle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625596705829.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>It’s a busy time for farmers in Kansas, with wheat harvest underway. The Kansas Highway Patrol would like to remind motorists to use more caution and patience when traveling around farm trucks, tractors, combines, and other implements, according to a media release from the agency.“With wheat harvest season soon beginning, you’ll see heavy farm implement and truck traffic moving in and out of Kansas wheat fields and on to Kansas roadways. It’s important to remember that traveling around these vehicles requires extra caution. By taking your time and giving farm and heavy equipment plenty of room on the roadways, you can help ensure that yourself, your loved ones, and our Kansas farmers all make it home safely,” said Captain Candice Breshears, KHP Public Information Officer.Most farm equipment is not designed to travel at highway speeds and may only travel 15-25 mph. Farm equipment is often wider than the lane of traffic, so extra room should be allowed when sharing the road. Caution should be practiced on all roads, but especially on busy rural roads with unmarked intersections.Tips to keep in mind:<ul>
 <li>Don’t assume the farmer knows you’re there.</li>
 </ul>Most farmers regularly check for vehicles behind them, however, most of their time must be spent looking ahead to stay on the road and watch for oncoming traffic. Implements are very loud, hindering their ability to hear your vehicle.<ul>
 <li>Pass with extreme caution.</li>
 </ul>Don’t pass unless you can see clearly ahead of both your vehicle and the equipment you are passing. If there are curves or hills blocking your view, wait until you can clearly visualize the area you are passing in. You should not pass in a designated “No Passing Zone,” even if you are stuck behind a farm vehicle. Do not pass if you are within 100 feet of any intersection, railroad grade crossing, bridge, elevated structure, or tunnel.<ul>
 <li>When a farm vehicle pulls to the right side of the road, it does not mean it is turning right&nbsp;or&nbsp;allowing you to pass.</li>
 </ul>Due to the size of some farm equipment, the farmer must execute wide left turns, so allow it plenty of room and time to turn and be alert to see if there might be a driveway or field they may be turning into.<ul>
 <li>Be patient.</li>
 </ul>Don’t assume that a farmer can move aside to let you pass. Shoulders may be soft, wet, or steep, which can cause the farm vehicle to tip, or the shoulder may not support the weight of a heavy farm vehicle. They understand you are being delayed and will move over at the first safe location available.<ul>
 <li>Think of the slow-moving vehicle emblem as a warning to adjust your speed.</li>
 </ul>When you see the slow-moving vehicle emblem, immediately slow down. While the emblems are visible from a long distance, it is difficult to judge the speed at which you are closing in on the vehicle, especially at night.<ul>
 <li>Pay attention.</li>
 </ul>When you are not focused solely on the road, you increase your chances of a collision, especially if you should come upon a slow-moving farm vehicle.

KHP: Extra caution needed on Kansas roads during harvest

Geary Community Farmers Market Need something fun to do this week? Come join the Geary Community Farmers Market this Thursday 4-7 p.m. in the JC Naz parking lot.

After you shop local, visit the information booth to learn more about seatbelt and bike safety. Kids can enter to win a FREE bicycle donated by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/livewellGC?__cft__[0]=AZX5WuEKlZqsJCiIZoi9Zc2zvCWVgcYeKMsZiwLXiVMhQ9QCPVRZEoLiY_WgHKjOoLyVZVoRPwO9CciNRPALRIVvCmWf1c8VlOvzfJWseptSFYZRiCg-GVm10Iu1oYvWjnKgQ6fgF5IPq9DYriZJoGzWA8vF2GdBMM156TfNhn_DaXqL4KY71QMHLX76LFJSxTA&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Live Well Geary County</a>.

More about Geary Community Farmers Market

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/GearyCommunityFarmersMarket">The Geary Community Farmers Market</a>&nbsp;operates from May through October. Led by Live Well Geary County, the market's primary focus is to expand access to healthy foods for the community.

This farmers market began in 2014 as a public service of Geary Community Hospital to bring fresh, local foods to the community and support small local producers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687374411293.jpeg" alt="JC Naz Farmers Market Flyer" />
 <figcaption>JC Naz Farmers Market Flyer</figcaption>
 </figure>Geary Community Farmers Market Need something fun to do this week? Come join the Geary Community Farmers Market this Thursday 4-7 p.m. in the JC Naz parking lot.After you shop local, visit the information booth to learn more about seatbelt and bike safety. Kids can enter to win a FREE bicycle donated by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/livewellGC?__cft__[0]=AZX5WuEKlZqsJCiIZoi9Zc2zvCWVgcYeKMsZiwLXiVMhQ9QCPVRZEoLiY_WgHKjOoLyVZVoRPwO9CciNRPALRIVvCmWf1c8VlOvzfJWseptSFYZRiCg-GVm10Iu1oYvWjnKgQ6fgF5IPq9DYriZJoGzWA8vF2GdBMM156TfNhn_DaXqL4KY71QMHLX76LFJSxTA&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Live Well Geary County</a>.More about Geary Community Farmers Market<a href="https://www.facebook.com/GearyCommunityFarmersMarket">The Geary Community Farmers Market</a>&nbsp;operates from May through October. Led by Live Well Geary County, the market's primary focus is to expand access to healthy foods for the community.This farmers market began in 2014 as a public service of Geary Community Hospital to bring fresh, local foods to the community and support small local producers.In spring 2020, the market pivoted to a community-based approach with Live Well County leading the market coordination in partnership with Geary Community Hospital, the Geary County Health Department, Konza Prairie Community Health Clinic, and JC Naz Church. We also benefit from valuable insight and mentoring on market operations from Manhattan Farmers Market managers.

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