The Geary USD 475 Board of Education has approved a public transportation service contract with the Flint Hills Area Transportation Agency for an annual cost of approximately $67,500. The District has partnered with the Flint Hills ATA bus service.&nbsp;

Middle and high school students of the district and their accompanying parent / guardian are eligible to to ride the Junction City / Grandview Plaza fixed route services with a valid USD 47 5 Student ID.

USD 475 releaseThe Geary USD 475 Board of Education has approved a public transportation service contract with the Flint Hills Area Transportation Agency for an annual cost of approximately $67,500. The District has partnered with the Flint Hills ATA bus service.&nbsp;Middle and high school students of the district and their accompanying parent / guardian are eligible to to ride the Junction City / Grandview Plaza fixed route services with a valid USD 47 5 Student ID.

USD 475 enters into an ATA Bus agreement

Stuff the Bus collected&nbsp; 9,278 back to school items for a combination of children in Geary USD 475, Saint Xavier and Chapman USD 383, Windy Hancock ( McKiney Vento ), Early Childhood and Apostolic Academy. Junction City - Geary United Way Director Nichole Mader said that they&nbsp;able to help a few students who participate in an accredited online school for Kansas.

Financial donations totaled $1,760.50 and 103 Adopt-A-Backpacks were reported. There were more than 30 volunteers who assisted.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostStuff the Bus collected&nbsp; 9,278 back to school items for a combination of children in Geary USD 475, Saint Xavier and Chapman USD 383, Windy Hancock ( McKiney Vento ), Early Childhood and Apostolic Academy. Junction City - Geary United Way Director Nichole Mader said that they&nbsp;able to help a few students who participate in an accredited online school for Kansas.Financial donations totaled $1,760.50 and 103 Adopt-A-Backpacks were reported. There were more than 30 volunteers who assisted.&nbsp;

United Way releases Stuff the Bus numbers

FORT RILEY, Kan. – The 1st Infantry Division and members of the Fort Riley community gathered on August 9, 2023, to pay tribute, and give final goodbyes to Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher Mullinax during the relinquishment of responsibility and Victory with Honors ceremony.

Command Sgt. Maj. Mullinax enlisted into the Army in June of 1998 and served in uniform over 25 years, with various duty assignments ranging from time spent in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd&nbsp;Ranger Battalions, the 75th&nbsp;Ranger Regiment, and many other assignments.

Command Sgt. Maj. Mullinax’s combat deployments include time in Afghanistan and Iraq, in addition to rotations in Europe and Africa.

During the ceremony, Mullinax spoke on his time spent at the Big Red One, the lessons learned, and relationships built from his time in service at the historic division. Mullinax prepares to head to his follow-on assignment in the headquarters building of the United States Department of Defense, The Pentagon.&nbsp;

“Thank you to the Fort Riley community. You hear us say, time and time again, this installation has the best support of any installation,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Mullinax, the 1st Inf. Division Command Sergeant Major. “This community does phenomenal things for our Soldiers and families every day.”

Fort Riley news releaseFORT RILEY, Kan. – The 1st Infantry Division and members of the Fort Riley community gathered on August 9, 2023, to pay tribute, and give final goodbyes to Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher Mullinax during the relinquishment of responsibility and Victory with Honors ceremony.Command Sgt. Maj. Mullinax enlisted into the Army in June of 1998 and served in uniform over 25 years, with various duty assignments ranging from time spent in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd&nbsp;Ranger Battalions, the 75th&nbsp;Ranger Regiment, and many other assignments.Command Sgt. Maj. Mullinax’s combat deployments include time in Afghanistan and Iraq, in addition to rotations in Europe and Africa.During the ceremony, Mullinax spoke on his time spent at the Big Red One, the lessons learned, and relationships built from his time in service at the historic division. Mullinax prepares to head to his follow-on assignment in the headquarters building of the United States Department of Defense, The Pentagon.&nbsp;“Thank you to the Fort Riley community. You hear us say, time and time again, this installation has the best support of any installation,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Mullinax, the 1st Inf. Division Command Sergeant Major. “This community does phenomenal things for our Soldiers and families every day.”

1ID Bids Farewell to Danger 7

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged text scam.

Just after 6:30p.m. Wednesday, officers filed a report for theft by deception and unlawful computer acts, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Fox Home Innovations LLC reported an unknown suspect posing as an employee instructed another employee through text messages to purchase 11 Apple gift cards. 

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,100. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged text scam.Just after 6:30p.m. Wednesday, officers filed a report for theft by deception and unlawful computer acts, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Fox Home Innovations LLC reported an unknown suspect posing as an employee instructed another employee through text messages to purchase 11 Apple gift cards. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,100. 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 investigating text message scam

Kansas Department of Transportation

TOPEKA, Kan. — The KanDrive website, which provides up-to-date road and weather information for motorists across Kansas, has updated its web address to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbmRyaXZlLmdvdj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODEwLjgwOTI2MjAxIn0.8JL9KuQLyy-7rio5UbXmTSL7Fvcl5HjxydaR0hVJDp8/s/2129667343/br/224014166737-l" target="_blank">www.KanDrive.gov</a>. Instead of ending with .org, the domain extension is now.gov.

There are no other changes to the website. People typing the old web address will automatically be directed to the KanDrive website. The address will also be updated soon in Google and other search engines.

Whether by desktop, mobile or tablet, more than 1.64 million KanDrive web sessions in 2022 provided users information that is updated 24/7 on highway maintenance and construction activities, winter highway conditions, flooded roadways, incidents and crashes affecting traffic and closed highways. WICHway and KC Scout can be directly accessed through KanDrive. A commercial vehicle mode also provides information for truck drivers.

Changing KanDrive’s web address is part of an overall update to KDOT websites to help increase security and be consistent with government addresses.

Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbmRyaXZlLmdvdj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODEwLjgwOTI2MjAxIn0.ZDBZvjbOYlkLAUh5p8fAwDssl_A7NUBsv771c8cHbKY/s/2129667343/br/224014166737-l" target="_blank">www.KanDrive.gov</a>&nbsp;and get started today.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691675866537.jpeg" alt="KanDrive" />
 <figcaption>KanDrive</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of TransportationTOPEKA, Kan. — The KanDrive website, which provides up-to-date road and weather information for motorists across Kansas, has updated its web address to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbmRyaXZlLmdvdj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODEwLjgwOTI2MjAxIn0.8JL9KuQLyy-7rio5UbXmTSL7Fvcl5HjxydaR0hVJDp8/s/2129667343/br/224014166737-l" target="_blank">www.KanDrive.gov</a>. Instead of ending with .org, the domain extension is now.gov.There are no other changes to the website. People typing the old web address will automatically be directed to the KanDrive website. The address will also be updated soon in Google and other search engines.Whether by desktop, mobile or tablet, more than 1.64 million KanDrive web sessions in 2022 provided users information that is updated 24/7 on highway maintenance and construction activities, winter highway conditions, flooded roadways, incidents and crashes affecting traffic and closed highways. WICHway and KC Scout can be directly accessed through KanDrive. A commercial vehicle mode also provides information for truck drivers.Changing KanDrive’s web address is part of an overall update to KDOT websites to help increase security and be consistent with government addresses.Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbmRyaXZlLmdvdj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODEwLjgwOTI2MjAxIn0.ZDBZvjbOYlkLAUh5p8fAwDssl_A7NUBsv771c8cHbKY/s/2129667343/br/224014166737-l" target="_blank">www.KanDrive.gov</a>&nbsp;and get started today.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

KanDrive is now KanDrive.gov

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.

Bond has been posted. Photo is unavailable.

Claire Lamb, Failure to appear, Arrested 8/10

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/2023/8/1691676092177.jpeg" alt="Molly Meeks, Outside warrant, Outside warrant, Probation violation, Arrested 8/9" />
 <figcaption>Molly Meeks, Outside warrant, Outside warrant, Probation violation, Arrested 8/9</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691676180271.jpeg" alt="Solomon Edwards, Probation violation, Arrested 8/9" />
 <figcaption>Solomon Edwards, Probation violation, Arrested 8/9</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691676257835.jpeg" alt="Rhynee Jordan, Failure to appear, Arrested 8/9" />
 <figcaption>Rhynee Jordan, Failure to appear, Arrested 8/9</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691676316406.jpeg" alt="Tyron Davis, Violation of a protection order, Arrested 8/9" />
 <figcaption>Tyron Davis, Violation of a protection order, Arrested 8/9</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691676373032.jpeg" alt="Keiasia&nbsp; Davis, Violation of a protection order, Arrested 8/9" />
 <figcaption>Keiasia&nbsp; Davis, Violation of a protection order, Arrested 8/9</figcaption>
 </figure>Bond has been posted. Photo is unavailable.Claire Lamb, Failure to appear, Arrested 8/10Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos Aug. 10

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

MANHATTAN - Following the Tuesday morning announcement by President Richard Linton about his recent cancer diagnosis, community members and leaders gathered on the lawn outside Anderson Hall on Tuesday evening to show their support of his fight against cancer.

Dr. Linton's complete announcement can be <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/01715cae-372f-4b64-9e96-63b7ac62ac48">found here</a>.

A guest book was available for community members to write messages of support and notes of encouragement for President Linton and his family.

Online messages of support should include the hashtag #LoveForLinton.

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691595759768.jpeg" alt="K-State community show support of President Linton" />
 <figcaption>K-State community show support of President Linton</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN - Following the Tuesday morning announcement by President Richard Linton about his recent cancer diagnosis, community members and leaders gathered on the lawn outside Anderson Hall on Tuesday evening to show their support of his fight against cancer.Dr. Linton's complete announcement can be <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/01715cae-372f-4b64-9e96-63b7ac62ac48">found here</a>.A guest book was available for community members to write messages of support and notes of encouragement for President Linton and his family.Online messages of support should include the hashtag #LoveForLinton.<div><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/MEmEtLAE-Kjb0luCJ.html" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Linton Support" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🎥 K-Staters show support for President Linton following cancer diagnosis

Submitted for Insight Kansas by Michael A. Smith

After decades of decline, fatal traffic crashes increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today’s traffic deaths are falling harder and harder on bicyclists and pedestrians. In Kansas, pedestrian deaths increased 261%, from 18 in 2019 to 47 in 2021, according to the National Governors’ Association. Nationally, those numbers increased 77% during the same time period, from 6272 to 7274. The 2020 infrastructure bill passed by the Kansas Legislature includes safety along with economic growth as priorities, and U.S. Rep. Sharice Davis recently announced a $1.28 million grant coming to the state’s Third District to improve roadway safety.

This differs remarkably from previous crackdowns on auto safety. U.S. traffic fatalities hit a high in 1972 and began dropping. Just before that, a host of federal laws had mandated safety features including seatbelts, high backed seats, and collapsible steering columns. Also, consumer safety advocate Ralph Nader and his team of lawyers targeted auto companies marketing cars with known safety flaws, including the Chevrolet Corvair and Ford Pinto.

In the 1980s, the focus shifted to drivers. Candace Lightner founded Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) in 1980, after her daughter was killed by a repeat drunk driver. MADD and its allies successfully advocated a host of federal and state laws targeting this behavior, and they are still at it today. The 80s also saw seatbelt laws and changing social norms regarding buckling up– earlier, seatbelts were required, but few drivers or passengers used them.

Cars have also continued getting safer for the occupants, with energy-absorbing materials and crumple zones becoming universal. Yet these features do nothing to protect those outside the car– pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists. They may even make drivers become overconfident, more likely to speed and drive inattentively, and more dangerous to those outside the car.

A host of new safety ideas have been circulated, including renewed crackdowns on DUIs and reckless driving, both of which increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Alongside these proposals, today’s safety advocates propose a host of changes to make roads themselves safer. All of us who truly enjoy driving should warmly welcome these ideas.

Today’s pedestrian-unfriendly roadways consist largely of suburban streets that have been turned into straight, flat speedways where drivers race along at speeds approaching those on the freeway, often distracted by their phones. This mix of high speeds, heavier vehicles, and distracted driving terrorizes pedestrians and bicyclists. Proposed ideas include shorter blocks, pedestrian refuge areas, increased use of traffic circles, narrower roads, dedicated bicycle lanes, and chicanes– those s-shaped curves also used on racetracks. Money from the bipartisan 2021 Infrastructure and Jobs Act is available to help fund these improvements.

I have appreciated cars and driving since childhood. My grandfather ran one of those old-fashioned gas stations in downtown Lawrence–the ones where you could get your car fixed. I grew up hearing car stories, reading car magazines, and attending car races with my dad. Every chance I get, I still exit the interstate and seek out the back roads– a “blue highway” driver.

Mindlessly, distractedly operating a vehicle on a flat, straight, suburban superspeedway is the antithesis of real driving. Real drivers open our windows, sunroofs, and convertible tops on nice days and shift our own gears. We speed up, slow down, and negotiate curves, all the while staying connected to our surroundings.

For the true driving enthusiast, better roadways cannot come fast enough. No more mindless driving– we need roads that keep us wide awake and firmly connected to our car, road, and surroundi

Submitted for Insight Kansas by Michael A. SmithAugust 7, 2023After decades of decline, fatal traffic crashes increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today’s traffic deaths are falling harder and harder on bicyclists and pedestrians. In Kansas, pedestrian deaths increased 261%, from 18 in 2019 to 47 in 2021, according to the National Governors’ Association. Nationally, those numbers increased 77% during the same time period, from 6272 to 7274. The 2020 infrastructure bill passed by the Kansas Legislature includes safety along with economic growth as priorities, and U.S. Rep. Sharice Davis recently announced a $1.28 million grant coming to the state’s Third District to improve roadway safety.This differs remarkably from previous crackdowns on auto safety. U.S. traffic fatalities hit a high in 1972 and began dropping. Just before that, a host of federal laws had mandated safety features including seatbelts, high backed seats, and collapsible steering columns. Also, consumer safety advocate Ralph Nader and his team of lawyers targeted auto companies marketing cars with known safety flaws, including the Chevrolet Corvair and Ford Pinto.In the 1980s, the focus shifted to drivers. Candace Lightner founded Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) in 1980, after her daughter was killed by a repeat drunk driver. MADD and its allies successfully advocated a host of federal and state laws targeting this behavior, and they are still at it today. The 80s also saw seatbelt laws and changing social norms regarding buckling up– earlier, seatbelts were required, but few drivers or passengers used them.Cars have also continued getting safer for the occupants, with energy-absorbing materials and crumple zones becoming universal. Yet these features do nothing to protect those outside the car– pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists. They may even make drivers become overconfident, more likely to speed and drive inattentively, and more dangerous to those outside the car.A host of new safety ideas have been circulated, including renewed crackdowns on DUIs and reckless driving, both of which increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Alongside these proposals, today’s safety advocates propose a host of changes to make roads themselves safer. All of us who truly enjoy driving should warmly welcome these ideas.Today’s pedestrian-unfriendly roadways consist largely of suburban streets that have been turned into straight, flat speedways where drivers race along at speeds approaching those on the freeway, often distracted by their phones. This mix of high speeds, heavier vehicles, and distracted driving terrorizes pedestrians and bicyclists. Proposed ideas include shorter blocks, pedestrian refuge areas, increased use of traffic circles, narrower roads, dedicated bicycle lanes, and chicanes– those s-shaped curves also used on racetracks. Money from the bipartisan 2021 Infrastructure and Jobs Act is available to help fund these improvements.I have appreciated cars and driving since childhood. My grandfather ran one of those old-fashioned gas stations in downtown Lawrence–the ones where you could get your car fixed. I grew up hearing car stories, reading car magazines, and attending car races with my dad. Every chance I get, I still exit the interstate and seek out the back roads– a “blue highway” driver.Mindlessly, distractedly operating a vehicle on a flat, straight, suburban superspeedway is the antithesis of real driving. Real drivers open our windows, sunroofs, and convertible tops on nice days and shift our own gears. We speed up, slow down, and negotiate curves, all the while staying connected to our surroundings.For the true driving enthusiast, better roadways cannot come fast enough. No more mindless driving– we need roads that keep us wide awake and firmly connected to our car, road, and surroundi

Kansans Need Safer, More Fun Roads

COWLEY COUNTY—A Manhattan teen was injured in an accident just after 9a.m. Tuesday in Cowley County.

A 2014, Ford F-150 driven by 18 year-old Jack Titgemeyer of Manhattan was traveling north through the intersection of 32nd Road and 151st Road, according to Cowley County Sheriff Dave Faletti.

Titgemeyer failed to stop at the stop sign and struck a 2011 Chevrolet Cruz driven by 38-year-old Atlanta, Kansas resident Jennifer Green. 

After impact the pickup rolled&nbsp; into a bean field landing upright. The Chevy traveled through a ditch and struck a road marker sign.

Winfield EMS transported Titgemeyer to&nbsp; William Newton Hospital.&nbsp; Eagle Med transported&nbsp;Green&nbsp;to Wesley Hospital in Wichita.&nbsp;

Winfield EMS also transported a passenger in the Chevrolet 41-year-old Atlanta, Kansas resident, Joseph Mancine to Wesley Hospital.

The sheriff's office released no additional details.

COWLEY COUNTY—A Manhattan teen was injured in an accident just after 9a.m. Tuesday in Cowley County.A 2014, Ford F-150 driven by 18 year-old Jack Titgemeyer of Manhattan was traveling north through the intersection of 32nd Road and 151st Road, according to Cowley County Sheriff Dave Faletti.Titgemeyer failed to stop at the stop sign and struck a 2011 Chevrolet Cruz driven by 38-year-old Atlanta, Kansas resident Jennifer Green. After impact the pickup rolled&nbsp; into a bean field landing upright. The Chevy traveled through a ditch and struck a road marker sign.Winfield EMS transported Titgemeyer to&nbsp; William Newton Hospital.&nbsp; Eagle Med transported&nbsp;Green&nbsp;to Wesley Hospital in Wichita.&nbsp;Winfield EMS also transported a passenger in the Chevrolet 41-year-old Atlanta, Kansas resident, Joseph Mancine to Wesley Hospital.The sheriff's office released no additional details.

Manhattan teen hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

Stiefel Theatre The Salina Stiefel Theatre is honored to share that George Takei is the author of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/today/announcement/?id=90036" target="_blank">2023 K-State First Book "They Called Us Enemy."</a> K-State First Book, the all-university reading program that is part of K-State First, selects a common book each academic year and coordinates classroom and campus activities to correspond with the reading.&nbsp; K-State First Book provides incoming students with a shared academic experience that they can discuss with professors, staff, administrators and other students when they arrive on campus. Participation in the K-State First Book program is voluntary.

George Takei will speak at the Stiefel Theatre on Friday, September 29th. A VIP meet and greet and book signing will be held at Red Fern Booksellers&nbsp; The meet and greet requires a ticket and is limited to 50.

Tickets go on sale Friday.&nbsp; Tickets start at $35 , with tickets to the VIP event $50

George Takei is a social justice activist, social media superstar, Grammy-nominated recording artist, New York Times bestselling author, and pioneering actor. He has appeared in more than 40 feature films and hundreds of television roles, most famously as Hikaru Sulu in &nbsp;Star Trek.

With an uncanny eloquence and signature wit, Takei shares the story of his family's forced internment as Japanese Americans during WWII — a seemingly forgotten part of American history. He also takes audiences through his rise to celebrity as a Sci-fi icon, his remarkable journey as social media mega-power, and his passionate fight for LGBTQ rights and marriage equality in America empowering others to beat the odds and make a difference.&nbsp;

George Takei is known around the world for his role in the acclaimed original TV series Star Trek, in which he played Hikaru Sulu, helmsman of the starship Enterprise. But Takei's story, which includes an acting career that spans six decades, goes where few have gone before. From a childhood spent with his family wrongfully imprisoned in Japanese American internment camps during World War II to becoming one of the country's leading figures in the fight for social justice, LGBTQ+ rights and marriage equality, Takei remains a powerful voice on issues ranging from politics to pop culture.&nbsp;

Takei hosts the AARP-produced YouTube series Takei's Take, exploring the world of technology, trends, current events and pop culture, and is the subject of the documentary To Be Takei. On his own YouTube channel, Takei and his husband Brad Takei bring viewers into their personal lives in the "heightened reality" web series It Takeis Two. He was a series regular in the second season of Ridley Scott's anthology drama The Terror: Infamy, which premiered on AMC in August 2019.

His rich baritone has provided narration for the PBS series The National Parks: America's Best Idea , the Peabody Award- winning radio documentary Crossing East , and Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home , which garnered Takei a Grammy Award nomination for Best Spoken Word Album. He has also done voiceover work for hundreds of video games, commercials, films and TV series such as Fox’s The Simpsons and Futurama ; Disney’s Kim Possible, Mulan and Mulan 2 ; Nickelodeon’s Avatar: The Last Airbender, and Star Wars: The Clone Wars. &nbsp;

Takei’s acting credits include co- starring in five Star Trek movies and appearances on such TV series as Fresh Off the Boat , Supah Ninjas , Hawaii Five-0, The New Normal, The Big Bang Theory, Heroes, Psych, Will &amp; Grace , Miami Vice , MacGyver , The Six Million Dollar Man , Mission: Impossible and The Twilight Zone, among numerous others.&nbsp;

In 2015, Takei made his Broadway debut in the musical Allegiance , which was inspired by his true- life experiences during World War II. In 2017, he starred in a revival of Stephen Sondheim's Pacific Overtures in New York City.

Takei is the author of four books, including his autobiography To the Stars. His fifth book, the New York Times bestselling graphic memoir They Called Us Enemy, was released in July 2019.

Takei has served as the spokesperson for the Human Rights Campaign’s Coming Out Project and was Cultural Affairs Chairman of the Japanese American Citizens League. He is also chairman emeritus and a trustee of the Japanese American National Museum. He was appointed to the Japan-U.S. Friendship Commission by former President Clinton and the government of Japan awarded Takei the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, for his contribution to U.S.-Japanese relations.

Takei received both bachelor and Master-of-arts degrees from UCLA (’60, ’64). In June 2019, Takei received the Distinguished Alumni Award in Theater from the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television (UCLA TFT).

Mashable.com named Takei the #1 most-influential person on Facebook. He currently boasts more than 10 million Facebook likes and 3 Million Twitter followers – and he uses these platforms to share humor, news, and his take on current events.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691603498676.jpeg" alt="George Takei. Image courtesy Stiefel Theatre" />
 <figcaption>George Takei. Image courtesy Stiefel Theatre</figcaption>
 </figure> Stiefel Theatre The Salina Stiefel Theatre is honored to share that George Takei is the author of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/today/announcement/?id=90036" target="_blank">2023 K-State First Book "They Called Us Enemy."</a> K-State First Book, the all-university reading program that is part of K-State First, selects a common book each academic year and coordinates classroom and campus activities to correspond with the reading.&nbsp; K-State First Book provides incoming students with a shared academic experience that they can discuss with professors, staff, administrators and other students when they arrive on campus. Participation in the K-State First Book program is voluntary.George Takei will speak at the Stiefel Theatre on Friday, September 29th. A VIP meet and greet and book signing will be held at Red Fern Booksellers&nbsp; The meet and greet requires a ticket and is limited to 50.Tickets go on sale Friday.&nbsp; Tickets start at $35 , with tickets to the VIP event $50<h2>About George Takei</h2>George Takei is a social justice activist, social media superstar, Grammy-nominated recording artist, New York Times bestselling author, and pioneering actor. He has appeared in more than 40 feature films and hundreds of television roles, most famously as Hikaru Sulu in &nbsp;Star Trek.With an uncanny eloquence and signature wit, Takei shares the story of his family's forced internment as Japanese Americans during WWII — a seemingly forgotten part of American history. He also takes audiences through his rise to celebrity as a Sci-fi icon, his remarkable journey as social media mega-power, and his passionate fight for LGBTQ rights and marriage equality in America empowering others to beat the odds and make a difference.&nbsp;George Takei is known around the world for his role in the acclaimed original TV series Star Trek, in which he played Hikaru Sulu, helmsman of the starship Enterprise. But Takei's story, which includes an acting career that spans six decades, goes where few have gone before. From a childhood spent with his family wrongfully imprisoned in Japanese American internment camps during World War II to becoming one of the country's leading figures in the fight for social justice, LGBTQ+ rights and marriage equality, Takei remains a powerful voice on issues ranging from politics to pop culture.&nbsp;Takei hosts the AARP-produced YouTube series Takei's Take, exploring the world of technology, trends, current events and pop culture, and is the subject of the documentary To Be Takei. On his own YouTube channel, Takei and his husband Brad Takei bring viewers into their personal lives in the "heightened reality" web series It Takeis Two. He was a series regular in the second season of Ridley Scott's anthology drama The Terror: Infamy, which premiered on AMC in August 2019.His rich baritone has provided narration for the PBS series The National Parks: America's Best Idea , the Peabody Award- winning radio documentary Crossing East , and Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home , which garnered Takei a Grammy Award nomination for Best Spoken Word Album. He has also done voiceover work for hundreds of video games, commercials, films and TV series such as Fox’s The Simpsons and Futurama ; Disney’s Kim Possible, Mulan and Mulan 2 ; Nickelodeon’s Avatar: The Last Airbender, and Star Wars: The Clone Wars. &nbsp;Takei’s acting credits include co- starring in five Star Trek movies and appearances on such TV series as Fresh Off the Boat , Supah Ninjas , Hawaii Five-0, The New Normal, The Big Bang Theory, Heroes, Psych, Will &amp; Grace , Miami Vice , MacGyver , The Six Million Dollar Man , Mission: Impossible and The Twilight Zone, among numerous others.&nbsp;In 2015, Takei made his Broadway debut in the musical Allegiance , which was inspired by his true- life experiences during World War II. In 2017, he starred in a revival of Stephen Sondheim's Pacific Overtures in New York City.Takei is the author of four books, including his autobiography To the Stars. His fifth book, the New York Times bestselling graphic memoir They Called Us Enemy, was released in July 2019.Takei has served as the spokesperson for the Human Rights Campaign’s Coming Out Project and was Cultural Affairs Chairman of the Japanese American Citizens League. He is also chairman emeritus and a trustee of the Japanese American National Museum. He was appointed to the Japan-U.S. Friendship Commission by former President Clinton and the government of Japan awarded Takei the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, for his contribution to U.S.-Japanese relations.Takei received both bachelor and Master-of-arts degrees from UCLA (’60, ’64). In June 2019, Takei received the Distinguished Alumni Award in Theater from the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television (UCLA TFT).Mashable.com named Takei the #1 most-influential person on Facebook. He currently boasts more than 10 million Facebook likes and 3 Million Twitter followers – and he uses these platforms to share humor, news, and his take on current events.

George Takei, author of K-State First Book, to visit Salina 

Dr. Pat Silovsky, Director at the Milford Nature Center, was the guest speaker at the Celebration of Optimism on August 9. Dr. Silovsky began her studies in biology and then became interested in studying the habitat in bodies of water and the birds and animals that live in the eco system. She has worked at the Milford Nature Center since 1989 and told the Optimists that the people at the Center not only provide a place to visit and learn about animals and birds in our area, but also will give programs for schools, clubs, and other organizations. Programs for 15,000 people were give last year.

Some of those included the sharing of information about turkey vultures, the Great Horned Owl, Bald Eagle, a Golden Eagle, a skunk, reptiles, prairie dogs, bobcats, amphibians, creepy/crawly things and many more. Some of the birds and animals are included in a live presentation.

“The Nature Center is one of 30 sites in the United States that has a Black Footed Ferret. This species of ferret has been on the endangered list and is unique for its fluorescent green eyes”, she said.

The fish hatchery, which is adjacent to the Milford Nature Center, welcomes visitors to walk around the outside raceways. Weekend hatchery tours are offered at 1:30 PM (no appointment needed) during April and May.

There are live exhibits with hands-on displays, a playground shelter and nature trail at the Nature Center. The address is 3415 Hatchery Drive. Hours are 9:00AM-4:30 PM Monday through Friday year round. Weekends the Center is open from 1:00 PM to 5:00 P.M. April through September only. For more information call 785-238-5323 and the website is kansasoutdoors.com.

By Dr. Ferrell MillerDr. Pat Silovsky, Director at the Milford Nature Center, was the guest speaker at the Celebration of Optimism on August 9. Dr. Silovsky began her studies in biology and then became interested in studying the habitat in bodies of water and the birds and animals that live in the eco system. She has worked at the Milford Nature Center since 1989 and told the Optimists that the people at the Center not only provide a place to visit and learn about animals and birds in our area, but also will give programs for schools, clubs, and other organizations. Programs for 15,000 people were give last year.Some of those included the sharing of information about turkey vultures, the Great Horned Owl, Bald Eagle, a Golden Eagle, a skunk, reptiles, prairie dogs, bobcats, amphibians, creepy/crawly things and many more. Some of the birds and animals are included in a live presentation.“The Nature Center is one of 30 sites in the United States that has a Black Footed Ferret. This species of ferret has been on the endangered list and is unique for its fluorescent green eyes”, she said.The fish hatchery, which is adjacent to the Milford Nature Center, welcomes visitors to walk around the outside raceways. Weekend hatchery tours are offered at 1:30 PM (no appointment needed) during April and May.There are live exhibits with hands-on displays, a playground shelter and nature trail at the Nature Center. The address is 3415 Hatchery Drive. Hours are 9:00AM-4:30 PM Monday through Friday year round. Weekends the Center is open from 1:00 PM to 5:00 P.M. April through September only. For more information call 785-238-5323 and the website is kansasoutdoors.com.

JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s Guest Speaker Was From The Milford Nature Center

MANHATTAN - Kansas State University researcher, Melanie Derby, has been selected by the National Science Foundation(NSF) to lead an interdisciplinary project studying methods for preserving soil moisture in areas of drought and warmer climates.

Melanie Derby is an associate professor in the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering at Kansas State University and will receive nearly $3 million from the NSF grant, as part of a $6 million cooperative award to study the potential for microbially active soil amendments to provide long-term solutions for conserving moisture and increasing nutrient availability for climate change-stressed crops.

This interdisciplinary project will last four years, with Derby at the helm,&nbsp;"Supporting rural livelihoods in the water-stressed Central High Plains: Microbial innovations for climate-resilient agriculture (MICRA)." Derby will work alongside teams from the&nbsp;University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Langston University.

K-State team members include Ganga Hettiarachchi, professor of agronomy; Gaurav Jha, associate professor of agronomy; Gabriel Sampson, associate professor of agricultural economics; Jonathan Aguilar, associate professor of biological and agricultural engineering; Ryan Hansen, associate professor of chemical engineering; and Debra Bolton, director of intercultural learning and academic success for the Office of the Vice President for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging.

The study will create fundamental knowledge to benefit rural communities and build future research capacity in the field while bringing together a team including engineers, mathematicians, soil and agricultural&nbsp;scientists, social scientists and agricultural economists.

"In the face of climate change in the Central High Plains, preservation of soil moisture under drought stress is a critical objective for both rainfed and irrigated conditions," Derby said. "Our team will determine if these microbially active soil amendments can be a long-term part of the solution to the challenges brought about by warmer climates." The project is funded through the NSF's Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research, or EPSCoR, which aims to build collaboration between similar jurisdictions with complementary expertise. Sethuraman Panchanathan, NSF director, said the awards will strengthen community and regional efforts to understand the impacts of a changing climate and enhance the resilience of disproportionately affected communities. "As evident from EPSCoR's impact, investing in research infrastructure is a powerful catalyst for strengthening our nation's security and competitiveness and fostering groundbreaking scientific advancements," Panchanathan said. "By addressing these critical challenges, and engaging with communities impacted by climate change, we have the potential to advance innovation and promote economic stability and recovery in EPSCoR jurisdictions and beyond." Derby is the Dr. Charles E. Wilson chair in engineering and an associate professor in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mne.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Alan Levin Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering</a>&nbsp;at K-State.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691588569021.jpeg" alt="NSF grant team, photo courtesy K-State" />
 <figcaption>NSF grant team, photo courtesy K-State</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN - Kansas State University researcher, Melanie Derby, has been selected by the National Science Foundation(NSF) to lead an interdisciplinary project studying methods for preserving soil moisture in areas of drought and warmer climates.Melanie Derby is an associate professor in the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering at Kansas State University and will receive nearly $3 million from the NSF grant, as part of a $6 million cooperative award to study the potential for microbially active soil amendments to provide long-term solutions for conserving moisture and increasing nutrient availability for climate change-stressed crops.This interdisciplinary project will last four years, with Derby at the helm,&nbsp;"Supporting rural livelihoods in the water-stressed Central High Plains: Microbial innovations for climate-resilient agriculture (MICRA)." Derby will work alongside teams from the&nbsp;University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Langston University.K-State team members include Ganga Hettiarachchi, professor of agronomy; Gaurav Jha, associate professor of agronomy; Gabriel Sampson, associate professor of agricultural economics; Jonathan Aguilar, associate professor of biological and agricultural engineering; Ryan Hansen, associate professor of chemical engineering; and Debra Bolton, director of intercultural learning and academic success for the Office of the Vice President for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging. The study will create fundamental knowledge to benefit rural communities and build future research capacity in the field while bringing together a team including engineers, mathematicians, soil and agricultural&nbsp;scientists, social scientists and agricultural economists."In the face of climate change in the Central High Plains, preservation of soil moisture under drought stress is a critical objective for both rainfed and irrigated conditions," Derby said. "Our team will determine if these microbially active soil amendments can be a long-term part of the solution to the challenges brought about by warmer climates." The project is funded through the NSF's Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research, or EPSCoR, which aims to build collaboration between similar jurisdictions with complementary expertise. Sethuraman Panchanathan, NSF director, said the awards will strengthen community and regional efforts to understand the impacts of a changing climate and enhance the resilience of disproportionately affected communities. "As evident from EPSCoR's impact, investing in research infrastructure is a powerful catalyst for strengthening our nation's security and competitiveness and fostering groundbreaking scientific advancements," Panchanathan said. "By addressing these critical challenges, and engaging with communities impacted by climate change, we have the potential to advance innovation and promote economic stability and recovery in EPSCoR jurisdictions and beyond." Derby is the Dr. Charles E. Wilson chair in engineering and an associate professor in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mne.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Alan Levin Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering</a>&nbsp;at K-State.&nbsp;

K-State receives $6M grant to study soil moisture preservation methods

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a drug offender on new allegations.

Just after 11a.m.&nbsp; Tuesday, police arrested suspect Anthony Moss, 56, of Manhattan on requested charges that include four counts of violation of offender registration after he failed to properly maintain registration pursuant to the Kansas Offender Registration Act, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Moss has been listed on the offender registry after a felony conviction in 2022 for distributing heroin and other stimulants, according to the KBI offender registry.&nbsp; The crimes were committed in 2019.

He has additional previous convictions for theft, burglary, drugs and offender registration.

Moss remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $30,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691591216691.png" alt="Moss-photo KBI offender registry" />
 <figcaption>Moss-photo KBI offender registry</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a drug offender on new allegations.Just after 11a.m.&nbsp; Tuesday, police arrested suspect Anthony Moss, 56, of Manhattan on requested charges that include four counts of violation of offender registration after he failed to properly maintain registration pursuant to the Kansas Offender Registration Act, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Moss has been listed on the offender registry after a felony conviction in 2022 for distributing heroin and other stimulants, according to the KBI offender registry.&nbsp; The crimes were committed in 2019.He has additional previous convictions for theft, burglary, drugs and offender registration.Moss remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $30,000.

Manhattan man jailed for alleged offender registration violation

The annual fish fry&nbsp; for the Geary County Fish &amp; Game Association will be held Monday, Aug. 14th at 6 p.m. at Sportsman's Acres. Members and guests&nbsp; can enjoy a meal and a chance to visit. Tom Goudey and his helpers cook the fish and everyone brings side dishes and desserts.

The annual fish fry&nbsp; for the Geary County Fish &amp; Game Association will be held Monday, Aug. 14th at 6 p.m. at Sportsman's Acres. Members and guests&nbsp; can enjoy a meal and a chance to visit. Tom Goudey and his helpers cook the fish and everyone brings side dishes and desserts.

Fish & Game Association will host a fish fry

The Geary County Schools USD 475 Board of Education has authorized an increase in gate fees for Junction City High School&nbsp;at varsity athletic events for the 2023-24 school year. The increase will be to $7 per adult and $5 per student. It is $2 more per ticket than the 2022-23 school year. Sub-Varsity athletic event gate fees will remain at $5 per adult and $3 per student as was previously implemented.

This will allow JCHS athletics to stay consistent with the recommended fee schedule adopted by the Centennial Leaguein March of 2021, which is not to exceed $7 per adult ticket and $5 per student. Any profit received will be used to offset the ever-increasing costs of hosting these events. Recent increases in costs associated with officials as well as general inflation have constituted a need to increase the gate fee for varsity events and will allow the District to stay consistent within the league.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684432433485.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>USD 475 releaseThe Geary County Schools USD 475 Board of Education has authorized an increase in gate fees for Junction City High School&nbsp;at varsity athletic events for the 2023-24 school year. The increase will be to $7 per adult and $5 per student. It is $2 more per ticket than the 2022-23 school year. Sub-Varsity athletic event gate fees will remain at $5 per adult and $3 per student as was previously implemented.This will allow JCHS athletics to stay consistent with the recommended fee schedule adopted by the Centennial Leaguein March of 2021, which is not to exceed $7 per adult ticket and $5 per student. Any profit received will be used to offset the ever-increasing costs of hosting these events. Recent increases in costs associated with officials as well as general inflation have constituted a need to increase the gate fee for varsity events and will allow the District to stay consistent within the league.

475 Board of Education raises varsity game fees at JCHS

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

Brian Rios Corbett, Failure to appear, Arrested 8/8

Travis Allen Jr., Riot, Disorderly Conduct, Interference with LEO, Arrested 8/8

Andrew Simonds, Domestic battery, Arrested 8/8

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/2023/8/1691588263753.jpeg" alt="Eleanor Fisher, Urinating or defecating in public, Theft-all other, Unlawful damage to property, Criminal trespass, Arrested 8/8" />
 <figcaption>Eleanor Fisher, Urinating or defecating in public, Theft-all other, Unlawful damage to property, Criminal trespass, Arrested 8/8</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691588391903.jpeg" alt="Mark Pope, Assault, Criminal threat, Arrested 8/8" />
 <figcaption>Mark Pope, Assault, Criminal threat, Arrested 8/8</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Brian Rios Corbett, Failure to appear, Arrested 8/8Travis Allen Jr., Riot, Disorderly Conduct, Interference with LEO, Arrested 8/8Andrew Simonds, Domestic battery, Arrested 8/8Recent 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 Aug. 9

Kim Baldwin, McPherson County farmer and rancher The summer heat of 2023 continues to make itself known. While I hear the local weather personalities referring to this heat as part of the “Dog Days of Summer,” I can’t help but wonder when this extreme heat we’ve continually experienced in July and August will end. &nbsp; My weather app has shown more images of a blazing sun and cactus with the words “Very Hot” in its 10-day forecast for more days than I care to remember. While I appreciate the artistic representation of the obvious extreme heat so many of us are currently experiencing, I wonder if we could possibly get some additional images added that would capture the essence of our current weather status.&nbsp; &nbsp; Perhaps an image of a dripping ice cream cone with the blazing sun overhead, an image of someone sticking their face into a freezer or an image of an individual sitting within the breeze of a fan blowing over a very large ice cube. These are all new images I’d suggest to my weather app if they were crowdsourcing suggestions for updated “Very Hot” icons. &nbsp; Upon further review, I think I’d also suggest that my weather app consider the individual user or the specific location of said user when creating the visual content associated with the 10-day forecast. &nbsp; While I stumble upon cactus growing in central Kansas on occasion, I really feel the image my weather app could utilize should be more reflective of my surroundings while experiencing this oppressive heat. &nbsp; For example, a cartoon image of two children cannonballing into a stock tank with a blazing sun overhead would be quite representative for me. &nbsp; Perhaps an illustrator could capture the image of our primarily outside farm dog, Rosie, sprawled out with her belly covering the cool tile floor in our bathroom, laying near a floor vent blasting cold air onto her. &nbsp; Maybe someone could draw up an image of a cow standing in a farm pond wearing an umbrella hat. Of course, that image would suggest that there’s enough water in our farm ponds in the first place – which would not be accurate based on our current status. Since dried-up ponds on our farm is the current situation, maybe an image of a cow hiding in the shade of the trees, or a cow sipping from a large straw coming out of a stock tank would be more symbolic of our present condition. &nbsp; I wonder if someone could create an artistic rendering of our dryland corn or dryland soybeans waving a white flag and saying, “We Give Up!” &nbsp; Surely my weather app will update any day now with an image of a simple, pleasant sun partially behind a cloud. Perhaps an image of a cloud with raindrops will also soon appear. Surely the images on my weather app will change and suggest that we are getting to the end of this heat. I’m not sure when the weather app image updates will happen, but I guarantee I’m checking for those changes on a daily basis with the hope that the end of the Dog Days of Summer are near. "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kim Baldwin, McPherson County farmer and rancher The summer heat of 2023 continues to make itself known. While I hear the local weather personalities referring to this heat as part of the “Dog Days of Summer,” I can’t help but wonder when this extreme heat we’ve continually experienced in July and August will end. &nbsp; My weather app has shown more images of a blazing sun and cactus with the words “Very Hot” in its 10-day forecast for more days than I care to remember. While I appreciate the artistic representation of the obvious extreme heat so many of us are currently experiencing, I wonder if we could possibly get some additional images added that would capture the essence of our current weather status.&nbsp; &nbsp; Perhaps an image of a dripping ice cream cone with the blazing sun overhead, an image of someone sticking their face into a freezer or an image of an individual sitting within the breeze of a fan blowing over a very large ice cube. These are all new images I’d suggest to my weather app if they were crowdsourcing suggestions for updated “Very Hot” icons. &nbsp; Upon further review, I think I’d also suggest that my weather app consider the individual user or the specific location of said user when creating the visual content associated with the 10-day forecast. &nbsp; While I stumble upon cactus growing in central Kansas on occasion, I really feel the image my weather app could utilize should be more reflective of my surroundings while experiencing this oppressive heat. &nbsp; For example, a cartoon image of two children cannonballing into a stock tank with a blazing sun overhead would be quite representative for me. &nbsp; Perhaps an illustrator could capture the image of our primarily outside farm dog, Rosie, sprawled out with her belly covering the cool tile floor in our bathroom, laying near a floor vent blasting cold air onto her. &nbsp; Maybe someone could draw up an image of a cow standing in a farm pond wearing an umbrella hat. Of course, that image would suggest that there’s enough water in our farm ponds in the first place – which would not be accurate based on our current status. Since dried-up ponds on our farm is the current situation, maybe an image of a cow hiding in the shade of the trees, or a cow sipping from a large straw coming out of a stock tank would be more symbolic of our present condition. &nbsp; I wonder if someone could create an artistic rendering of our dryland corn or dryland soybeans waving a white flag and saying, “We Give Up!” &nbsp; Surely my weather app will update any day now with an image of a simple, pleasant sun partially behind a cloud. Perhaps an image of a cloud with raindrops will also soon appear. Surely the images on my weather app will change and suggest that we are getting to the end of this heat. I’m not sure when the weather app image updates will happen, but I guarantee I’m checking for those changes on a daily basis with the hope that the end of the Dog Days of Summer are near. "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Depictions of the Dog Days

On Monday, Lincoln Elementary fifth grade teacher Jennifer Farr was recognized for being awarded the Lowell Milken Center (LMC) Fellowship by Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Kansas, an international educational non-profit.

The LMC Fellowship is a merit-based award for educators of all disciplines who value the importance of teaching respect and understanding through project-based learning. The Center selects exemplary teachers from the United States and around the world who will collaborate on projects that discover, develop, and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes in history.

During the summer, Farr traveled to Fort Scott on June 25, for a week of collaboration with LMC staff. 

USD 475 releaseOn Monday, Lincoln Elementary fifth grade teacher Jennifer Farr was recognized for being awarded the Lowell Milken Center (LMC) Fellowship by Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Kansas, an international educational non-profit.The LMC Fellowship is a merit-based award for educators of all disciplines who value the importance of teaching respect and understanding through project-based learning. The Center selects exemplary teachers from the United States and around the world who will collaborate on projects that discover, develop, and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes in history.During the summer, Farr traveled to Fort Scott on June 25, for a week of collaboration with LMC staff.

Farr Named 2023 National Lowell Milken Center Fellow

Brandon Welty, Probation violation, Arrested 8/7

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;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691515139951.jpeg" alt="Lariscia Lane, Parole violation, Arrested 8/7" />
 <figcaption>Lariscia Lane, Parole violation, Arrested 8/7</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691515224708.jpeg" alt="Gary Papke, Probation violation, Arrested 8/7" />
 <figcaption>Gary Papke, Probation violation, Arrested 8/7</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691515277359.jpeg" alt="Vernardo Smith, Probation violation, Arrested 8/7" />
 <figcaption>Vernardo Smith, Probation violation, Arrested 8/7</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691515336722.jpeg" alt="Sharonda Hill, Disorderly conduct, Arrested 8/7" />
 <figcaption>Sharonda Hill, Disorderly conduct, Arrested 8/7</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691515538502.jpeg" alt="Isaiah Johnson, Failure to appear, Arrested 8/7" />
 <figcaption>Isaiah Johnson, Failure to appear, Arrested 8/7</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691515588730.jpeg" alt="Cinderella Jackson, Failure to appear, Arrested 8/7" />
 <figcaption>Cinderella Jackson, Failure to appear, Arrested 8/7</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691515656485.jpeg" alt="Daniel Robinson, Unlawful damage to property, Arrested 8/7" />
 <figcaption>Daniel Robinson, Unlawful damage to property, Arrested 8/7</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691515712559.jpeg" alt="Ashley Techur, Aggravated battery, Driving under the influence of drugs / alcohol, Interference with LEO, Vehicle liability insurance required, Failure to yield at stop or yield sign, Arrested 8/8" />
 <figcaption>Ashley Techur, Aggravated battery, Driving under the influence of drugs / alcohol, Interference with LEO, Vehicle liability insurance required, Failure to yield at stop or yield sign, Arrested 8/8</figcaption>
 </figure>Bond has been posted. Photo is unavailable.Brandon Welty, Probation violation, Arrested 8/7Recent 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 Aug. 8

Saint Xavier School will host their Back to School Night Monday evening from 6-8 p.m. You can meet the teachers, visit classrooms, drop off supplies, pick up class schedules and locker assignments. There will be an ice cream social from 6-7:30 p.m.

Students begin class Wednesday, Aug. 16th.

Saint Xavier School will host their Back to School Night Monday evening from 6-8 p.m. You can meet the teachers, visit classrooms, drop off supplies, pick up class schedules and locker assignments. There will be an ice cream social from 6-7:30 p.m.Students begin class Wednesday, Aug. 16th.

Back to School Night set for Saint Xavier

Submitted by President Richard Linton

A personal update from K-State President Richard Linton:

With the launch of our new strategic plan around the corner, I like to think of our university at the starting line of our future, revving up the engine louder and more confidently than ever before. We’re&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/today/announcement/?id=90661">seeking final input on the draft plan</a>, putting all the people and pieces in place, and building up the energy so much that the only option is to catapult forward. This energy is indeed a driving force for this institution, and that is because of each and every one of you who are engaged with and invested in our great university. Our students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors and friends are truly our backbone — you step up whenever and wherever needed to advance our mission and vision forward. Your shared optimism means the world to this institution — and to me personally, now more than ever.

I owe it to you all —&nbsp;my K-State family&nbsp;— to share some personal and difficult news as we prepare to launch forward. This past week, I was diagnosed with throat and tongue cancer, which will require me to pursue daily treatments in Kansas City with the KU Cancer Center for the next few months. This is obviously not how I envisioned starting the fall semester, but it is necessary that I take these steps at this time, as this cancer is treatable and curable. I need to be at my best for this institution — you deserve that from me, and in consultation with my medical team, I also know this is what is best for me and my family.

I will stay engaged with the university and the great work we’re doing, but I also recognize I won’t be able to be present in the way you’ve known me to be, as much of my work will have to take place remotely from Kansas City. I am grateful to the Kansas Board of Regents for supporting the decision to appoint another university leader to partner with me in a special capacity during this time. Dr. Marshall Stewart, senior vice president and chief of staff, will represent me at important university events and meetings and collaborate with me on decision making. Dr. Stewart and I are completely aligned in how we lead this university, and we will continue to ensure we’re aligned through regular communication. Place your trust in him as you have with me — he will ensure we continue our planned path forward together.

I am also grateful to the medical professionals who have been and will continue to guide me on this journey. From my local physician to the team at the KU Cancer Center, I know I am incredibly well taken care of.

And of course, I am eternally grateful for the love of my family — Sally, Lily and Chris. Their support always has and always will lift me up every day. I know the energy generated from the support of my entire Wildcat family will also do the same.&nbsp;

As I look to the future, I want you to know that I look to it with optimism — that is the K-State way, and this community has instilled that in me. K-Staters don’t shy away from difficult situations or moments of uncertainty. We face them head on and fight for the greatest outcome. That is what I do for you every day, and that is what I will continue to do for you as I embark on this journey.

Thank you for your support, and thank you in advance for affording that same support to Dr. Stewart. I’ve said it many times, and I’ll say it again: The future of Kansas State University is bright, and I look forward to realizing our great vision for the future together.

Submitted by President Richard Linton <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687440596492.jpeg" alt="Dr. Richard Linton-Photo Courtesy Kansas State University" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Richard Linton-Photo Courtesy Kansas State University</figcaption>
 </figure>A personal update from K-State President Richard Linton:Dear K-State Community,With the launch of our new strategic plan around the corner, I like to think of our university at the starting line of our future, revving up the engine louder and more confidently than ever before. We’re&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/today/announcement/?id=90661">seeking final input on the draft plan</a>, putting all the people and pieces in place, and building up the energy so much that the only option is to catapult forward. This energy is indeed a driving force for this institution, and that is because of each and every one of you who are engaged with and invested in our great university. Our students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors and friends are truly our backbone — you step up whenever and wherever needed to advance our mission and vision forward. Your shared optimism means the world to this institution — and to me personally, now more than ever.I owe it to you all —&nbsp;my K-State family&nbsp;— to share some personal and difficult news as we prepare to launch forward. This past week, I was diagnosed with throat and tongue cancer, which will require me to pursue daily treatments in Kansas City with the KU Cancer Center for the next few months. This is obviously not how I envisioned starting the fall semester, but it is necessary that I take these steps at this time, as this cancer is treatable and curable. I need to be at my best for this institution — you deserve that from me, and in consultation with my medical team, I also know this is what is best for me and my family.I will stay engaged with the university and the great work we’re doing, but I also recognize I won’t be able to be present in the way you’ve known me to be, as much of my work will have to take place remotely from Kansas City. I am grateful to the Kansas Board of Regents for supporting the decision to appoint another university leader to partner with me in a special capacity during this time. Dr. Marshall Stewart, senior vice president and chief of staff, will represent me at important university events and meetings and collaborate with me on decision making. Dr. Stewart and I are completely aligned in how we lead this university, and we will continue to ensure we’re aligned through regular communication. Place your trust in him as you have with me — he will ensure we continue our planned path forward together.I am also grateful to the medical professionals who have been and will continue to guide me on this journey. From my local physician to the team at the KU Cancer Center, I know I am incredibly well taken care of.And of course, I am eternally grateful for the love of my family — Sally, Lily and Chris. Their support always has and always will lift me up every day. I know the energy generated from the support of my entire Wildcat family will also do the same.&nbsp;As I look to the future, I want you to know that I look to it with optimism — that is the K-State way, and this community has instilled that in me. K-Staters don’t shy away from difficult situations or moments of uncertainty. We face them head on and fight for the greatest outcome. That is what I do for you every day, and that is what I will continue to do for you as I embark on this journey.Thank you for your support, and thank you in advance for affording that same support to Dr. Stewart. I’ve said it many times, and I’ll say it again: The future of Kansas State University is bright, and I look forward to realizing our great vision for the future together.Richard Linton President

K-State president shares cancer diagnosis

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged criminal damage to property&nbsp;

Just before 8a.m. Monday, officers filed a report for criminal damage to property at Bergman Elementary 3401 Lombard Drive in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

It was reported an unknown suspect damaged two fence gate doors and two metal security doors at the school. 

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $5,000. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691504347366.png" alt="The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $5,000. Google image" />
 <figcaption>The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $5,000. Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged criminal damage to property&nbsp;Just before 8a.m. Monday, officers filed a report for criminal damage to property at Bergman Elementary 3401 Lombard Drive in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.It was reported an unknown suspect damaged two fence gate doors and two metal security doors at the school. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $5,000. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD investigating vandalism at school in Manhattan

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp; a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.

On Monday, officials in Wabaunsee County were alerted to possible exploitation of a child, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.

Deputies responded to a residence in the 300 Block of Elm Street in Alta Vista and made contact with 57-year-old Kenneth Scott Seidens of Alta Vista.

Evidence on scene led deputies to arrest him on requested charges of&nbsp; aggravated sexual battery, aggravated criminal sodomy and contributing to a child's misconduct. Deputies booked Seidens into jail just after 12:30a.m. Tuesday, according to online jail records.

The child was made safe, according to the sheriff's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691498388155.png" alt="Seidens-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Seidens-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp; a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.On Monday, officials in Wabaunsee County were alerted to possible exploitation of a child, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.Deputies responded to a residence in the 300 Block of Elm Street in Alta Vista and made contact with 57-year-old Kenneth Scott Seidens of Alta Vista.Evidence on scene led deputies to arrest him on requested charges of&nbsp; aggravated sexual battery, aggravated criminal sodomy and contributing to a child's misconduct. Deputies booked Seidens into jail just after 12:30a.m. Tuesday, according to online jail records.The child was made safe, according to the sheriff's office.

Wabaunsee Co. man accused of child sex crimes

The City of Junction City Public Works Department turned on the School Zone Warning Flashers on Monday, August 7th as a reminder that school will soon be in session.

The School Zone Warning Flashers will be turned on all week as a reminder for drivers that area schools will be in session this week starting Friday, August 11th and to obey the 20 MPH school speed zones. Drivers also need to pay close attention to the school children during the morning and afternoon hours when children will be walking.

The City of Junction City Public Works Department turned on the School Zone Warning Flashers on Monday, August 7th as a reminder that school will soon be in session.The School Zone Warning Flashers will be turned on all week as a reminder for drivers that area schools will be in session this week starting Friday, August 11th and to obey the 20 MPH school speed zones. Drivers also need to pay close attention to the school children during the morning and afternoon hours when children will be walking.

School zone warning lights go on

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;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691424083468.jpeg" alt="Rueben Abernathy, Failure to appear; Arrested 08/05/2023" />
 <figcaption>Rueben Abernathy, Failure to appear; Arrested 08/05/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691424136019.jpeg" alt="Makayla Hope Arland, Distribution of controlled substance; Cause great bodily harm; Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant; Arrested 08/06/2023" />
 <figcaption>Makayla Hope Arland, Distribution of controlled substance; Cause great bodily harm; Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant; Arrested 08/06/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691424202064.jpeg" alt="Nickols Ryan Bancroft, Possession of controlled substance; unknown substance; Interference with LEO; Conceal/alter/destroy evidence in felony case; Aggravated assault; Use of a deadly weapon; Arrested 08/05/2023" />
 <figcaption>Nickols Ryan Bancroft, Possession of controlled substance; unknown substance; Interference with LEO; Conceal/alter/destroy evidence in felony case; Aggravated assault; Use of a deadly weapon; Arrested 08/05/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691424281952.jpeg" alt="Charles Anthony Barrett, Probation Violation; Arrested 08/05/2023" />
 <figcaption>Charles Anthony Barrett, Probation Violation; Arrested 08/05/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691424321831.jpeg" alt="Matthew Stanley Burdine, Theft &gt; $1,500 &lt; $25,000 Pocket picking; Arrested 08/05/2023" />
 <figcaption>Matthew Stanley Burdine, Theft &gt; $1,500 &lt; $25,000 Pocket picking; Arrested 08/05/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691424474410.jpeg" alt="Kaiden Michael Herrick, Failure to appear; Arrested 08/06/2023" />
 <figcaption>Kaiden Michael Herrick, Failure to appear; Arrested 08/06/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691424513725.jpeg" alt="Mercedes Lynne Imlay, Counterfeiting currency; Distribute or possess w/intent to distribute; &lt;$25K; Arrested 08/05/2023" />
 <figcaption>Mercedes Lynne Imlay, Counterfeiting currency; Distribute or possess w/intent to distribute; &lt;$25K; Arrested 08/05/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691424652639.jpeg" alt="Lariscia Maylynn Lane, Parole violation; Arrested 08/07/2023" />
 <figcaption>Lariscia Maylynn Lane, Parole violation; Arrested 08/07/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691423982377.jpeg" alt="Gary Lynn Papke, Probation Violation; Arrested 08/07/2023" />
 <figcaption>Gary Lynn Papke, Probation Violation; Arrested 08/07/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691424733916.jpeg" alt="Bobbie Lee Rodgers, Probation Violation; Arrested 08/06/2023" />
 <figcaption>Bobbie Lee Rodgers, Probation Violation; Arrested 08/06/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691424770044.jpeg" alt="Travis A Traxler, Aggravated sexual battery; Victim is mentally deficient; Rape; Sexual intercourse with mentally deficient victim; Arrested 08/07/2023" />
 <figcaption>Travis A Traxler, Aggravated sexual battery; Victim is mentally deficient; Rape; Sexual intercourse with mentally deficient victim; Arrested 08/07/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691424848193.jpeg" alt="Adriane Clarice Young, Violation of protective order x2; Arrested 08/06/2023" />
 <figcaption>Adriane Clarice Young, Violation of protective order x2; Arrested 08/06/2023</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;

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