Current Phase 1 reconstruction of K-177 has that highway closed from Council Grove to Alta Vista until late November of this year. 

In Phase 2 K-177 will be closed from Alta Vista to I-70 from March 2023 to November 2023. Wildcat Construction Co. Inc. and Subsidiaries of Wichita, KS are the primary contractor.



Current Phase 1 reconstruction of K-177 has that highway closed from Council Grove to Alta Vista until late November of this year. In Phase 2 K-177 will be closed from Alta Vista to I-70 from March 2023 to November 2023. Wildcat Construction Co. Inc. and Subsidiaries of Wichita, KS are the primary contractor.

Kansas Department of Transportation updates road closure information

MANHATTAN — A new grant program from Kansas State University provides eligible students with an award covering in-state tuition that remains after other grants and scholarships are applied to a student's account, helping those who need it most. The award, known as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/grants/land-grant-promise/" target="_blank">Land Grant Promise</a>,&nbsp;provides tuition-free undergraduate education and exemplifies the university's land-grant commitment to access and affordability for Kansas residents. To be eligible for the Land Grant Promise, degree-seeking undergraduate students must be full time and have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid by the priority date.&nbsp;Students must be declared Pell-eligible or show a household income of $60,000 or less, be enrolled in classes on the Manhattan campus or online, and be a Kansas resident living in a qualifying Kansas county at the time of application for admission. K-State's Land Grant Promise is available immediately and will be automatically awarded to students who qualify and&nbsp;live in Clay, Dickinson, Geary, Marshall, Pottawatomie, Riley, Saline, Shawnee, Wabaunsee or Washington counties. "We are committed to providing opportunity and access to higher education to any Kansan who wants to receive a world-class K-State education," said Karen Goos, vice provost for enrollment management. "It makes sense to begin this program by investing in the communities surrounding our main campus." Goos said the Land Grant Promise is not designed to cover costs beyond tuition, such as fees, books or housing. Students are encouraged to apply for other scholarships and grants to help cover those expenses. Students interested in learning more about the Land Grant Promise should visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/grants/land-grant-promise" target="_blank">k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/grants/land-grant-promise</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646146565707.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN — A new grant program from Kansas State University provides eligible students with an award covering in-state tuition that remains after other grants and scholarships are applied to a student's account, helping those who need it most. The award, known as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/grants/land-grant-promise/" target="_blank">Land Grant Promise</a>,&nbsp;provides tuition-free undergraduate education and exemplifies the university's land-grant commitment to access and affordability for Kansas residents. To be eligible for the Land Grant Promise, degree-seeking undergraduate students must be full time and have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid by the priority date.&nbsp;Students must be declared Pell-eligible or show a household income of $60,000 or less, be enrolled in classes on the Manhattan campus or online, and be a Kansas resident living in a qualifying Kansas county at the time of application for admission. K-State's Land Grant Promise is available immediately and will be automatically awarded to students who qualify and&nbsp;live in Clay, Dickinson, Geary, Marshall, Pottawatomie, Riley, Saline, Shawnee, Wabaunsee or Washington counties. "We are committed to providing opportunity and access to higher education to any Kansan who wants to receive a world-class K-State education," said Karen Goos, vice provost for enrollment management. "It makes sense to begin this program by investing in the communities surrounding our main campus." Goos said the Land Grant Promise is not designed to cover costs beyond tuition, such as fees, books or housing. Students are encouraged to apply for other scholarships and grants to help cover those expenses. Students interested in learning more about the Land Grant Promise should visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/grants/land-grant-promise" target="_blank">k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/grants/land-grant-promise</a>.&nbsp;

K-State announces new grant program covering in-state tuition

RILEY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating another overdose involving fentanyl in Manhattan.

Just after 11:30 p.m. Monday, police&nbsp;responded to the report of an overdose in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

EMS transported a 20-year-old man to Via Christi for treatment after ingesting a presumably fake pressed M30 oxycodone pill pill containing fentanyl. After treatment, the hospital released him.

On Aug. 25, the Riley County Police Department reported they responded to four overdoses in the past week.&nbsp; Two of them involved juveniles, one of them occurred at Manhattan High School during school hours.

Police urged the public not to buy and take pills from unknown sources because the chances it contains fentanyl is very high.

Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#">Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers</a>. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating another overdose involving fentanyl in Manhattan.Just after 11:30 p.m. Monday, police&nbsp;responded to the report of an overdose in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.EMS transported a 20-year-old man to Via Christi for treatment after ingesting a presumably fake pressed M30 oxycodone pill pill containing fentanyl. After treatment, the hospital released him.On Aug. 25, the Riley County Police Department reported they responded to four overdoses in the past week.&nbsp; Two of them involved juveniles, one of them occurred at Manhattan High School during school hours.Police urged the public not to buy and take pills from unknown sources because the chances it contains fentanyl is very high.Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#">Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers</a>. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD investigates another overdose involving fentanyl

Adding another brigade of troops to the 1st Infantry Division is not realistic right now, but smaller units might be possible later on.

Perry Wiggins, Executive Director of the Governor's Military Council and a retired Lt. Gen, said he is just projecting on this issue and does not have a crystal ball. "But I think there will be increases in our army, and I am very positive and optimistic that Fort Riley's a great place to observe and train and that will be a place that some of these organizations will land."

Wiggins talked with JC Post after a recent Military Affairs Council breakfast and noted that he is talking about all sorts of training sets." Different mission sets for different organizations but I'm talking about training in general, field training particularly."

During a visit to Fort Riley U.S. Senator Jerry Moran indicated he thinks that there is the opportunity for a few hundred soldiers to be assigned to the Post. "Nothing that is far enough along to announce anything but we're working with the Army as they figure out how to make some more modest realignments within the military to make certain Fort Riley is on the list." On the subject of asking for an additional brigade Moran made it clear that he recognized that it's not realistic at this time. "My hope is always that we can do a brigade but we'd be happy to provide a unit of several hundred soldiers in size."

By Dewey TerrillJC PostAdding another brigade of troops to the 1st Infantry Division is not realistic right now, but smaller units might be possible later on.Perry Wiggins, Executive Director of the Governor's Military Council and a retired Lt. Gen, said he is just projecting on this issue and does not have a crystal ball. "But I think there will be increases in our army, and I am very positive and optimistic that Fort Riley's a great place to observe and train and that will be a place that some of these organizations will land."Wiggins talked with JC Post after a recent Military Affairs Council breakfast and noted that he is talking about all sorts of training sets." Different mission sets for different organizations but I'm talking about training in general, field training particularly."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661809041127.jpeg" alt="Perry Wiggins speaking at the recent MAC breakfast." />
 <figcaption>Perry Wiggins speaking at the recent MAC breakfast.</figcaption>
 </figure>During a visit to Fort Riley U.S. Senator Jerry Moran indicated he thinks that there is the opportunity for a few hundred soldiers to be assigned to the Post. "Nothing that is far enough along to announce anything but we're working with the Army as they figure out how to make some more modest realignments within the military to make certain Fort Riley is on the list." On the subject of asking for an additional brigade Moran made it clear that he recognized that it's not realistic at this time. "My hope is always that we can do a brigade but we'd be happy to provide a unit of several hundred soldiers in size."

New, smaller troop units could be possible at Fort Riley in the future

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program has been training leaders in the north Flint Hills Region for nearly 30 years.

Last week Executive Director, Jack Lindquist, announced the members of the upcoming leadership class.

Members of the class are from Geary, Pottawatomie, Riley and Wabaunsee counties.

The group will meet for sessions starting in September and will meet nine times over the next five months, learning about different aspects of leadership within&nbsp;Geary, Pottawatomie, Riley and Wabaunsee counties.

Wabaunsee County was added into the program during the '21-'22 session, with the first program day in Wabaunsee County being added for the class of '22 - '23.

Members of the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program Class of 2022 - 2023 include:&nbsp; -Sydni Baker of Manhattan (PT County), Aquatics Specialist with City of Manhattan-Parks and Recreation -Alissa Barber of Alma (WB County), Wabaunsee County Deputy County Clerk -Josh Brewer of Manhattan (RL County), Manhattan Area Habitat for Humanity Executive Director -Melissa Cabana of Wamego (PT County), Fort Riley Directorate of Human Resources, Leader &amp; Workforce Development Specialist -Ashely Chambers of Milford (GE County), Fort Riley&nbsp;DPTMS Visual Information Specialist -Dr. Crystal J Davis of Junction City (GE County), CJD Consulting Solutions LLC, CEO -Susan Dean of Junction City (GE County), UPU Industries Operations Lead -Leslie Dugan of Wamego (PT County), City of Wamego Treasurer -Samantha Ellison of Manhattan (RL County), Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, Member Engagement Manager -Tracy Geisler of Leonardville (RL County), Geary County Health Care Foundation Executive Director -Mary Hildreth of Wamego (PT County), Flint Hills Discovery Center Guest Services/Membership Manager -Morgan Holloman of Alma (WB County), owner of The Antique Emporium of Alma -Eric Kirsch of Alma (WB County), Detective Sergeant with Wabaunsee County Sheriff's Office/Maple Hill Police Chief -Trina McCarty of Manhattan (RL County), Kansas State University Global Campus Instructional Designer -Nick Messer of Manhattan (RL County), Evergy Supervisor Field Design -Derek Moon of Milford (GE County), DPW Environmental Supervisory Fish and Wildlife Biologist -Cory Odell of Junction City (GE County), Junction City Police Department, Investigations Division Captain -Jeremy J O'Donnell of Manhattan (RL County), Fort Riley Garrison Executive Officer -Fredrick D Reid of Junction City (GE County), Prairie Heritage Executive Board Member -Tom Reust of St. George (PT County), US Army Public Affairs Specialist -Paul Schliffke of Wamego (PT County), City of Wamego Chief of Police -Steve Schurle of Manhattan (PT County), Riley County Commercial Real Estate Analyst -Anne Smith of Manhattan (RL County), Flint Hills Area Transportation Agency Executive Director -Juliana Tobon of Fort Riley (GE County), Junction City Treasurer -Morgan Todd of Junction City (GE County), Central National Bank Commercial Lending Assistant -Nicole Trolio of Manhattan (RL County), US Army Fort Riley MWR, Business Operations Officer

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostFlint Hills Regional Leadership Program has been training leaders in the north Flint Hills Region for nearly 30 years.Last week Executive Director, Jack Lindquist, announced the members of the upcoming leadership class.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661813121297.jpeg" alt="Flint Hills Regional Leadership '22-'23 - class announcement, photo courtesy FHRLP" />
 <figcaption>Flint Hills Regional Leadership '22-'23 - class announcement, photo courtesy FHRLP</figcaption>
 </figure>Members of the class are from Geary, Pottawatomie, Riley and Wabaunsee counties.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661813166840.jpeg" alt="Flint Hills Regional Leadership '22-'23 - class announcement, photo courtesy FHRLP" />
 <figcaption>Flint Hills Regional Leadership '22-'23 - class announcement, photo courtesy FHRLP</figcaption>
 </figure>The group will meet for sessions starting in September and will meet nine times over the next five months, learning about different aspects of leadership within&nbsp;Geary, Pottawatomie, Riley and Wabaunsee counties.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Ffhrlp.org%2Fvideos%2F446594970851144%2F&show_text=true&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="429" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Wabaunsee County was added into the program during the '21-'22 session, with the first program day in Wabaunsee County being added for the class of '22 - '23.Members of the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program Class of 2022 - 2023 include:&nbsp; -Sydni Baker of Manhattan (PT County), Aquatics Specialist with City of Manhattan-Parks and Recreation -Alissa Barber of Alma (WB County), Wabaunsee County Deputy County Clerk -Josh Brewer of Manhattan (RL County), Manhattan Area Habitat for Humanity Executive Director -Melissa Cabana of Wamego (PT County), Fort Riley Directorate of Human Resources, Leader &amp; Workforce Development Specialist -Ashely Chambers of Milford (GE County), Fort Riley&nbsp;DPTMS Visual Information Specialist -Dr. Crystal J Davis of Junction City (GE County), CJD Consulting Solutions LLC, CEO -Susan Dean of Junction City (GE County), UPU Industries Operations Lead -Leslie Dugan of Wamego (PT County), City of Wamego Treasurer -Samantha Ellison of Manhattan (RL County), Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, Member Engagement Manager -Tracy Geisler of Leonardville (RL County), Geary County Health Care Foundation Executive Director -Mary Hildreth of Wamego (PT County), Flint Hills Discovery Center Guest Services/Membership Manager -Morgan Holloman of Alma (WB County), owner of The Antique Emporium of Alma -Eric Kirsch of Alma (WB County), Detective Sergeant with Wabaunsee County Sheriff's Office/Maple Hill Police Chief -Trina McCarty of Manhattan (RL County), Kansas State University Global Campus Instructional Designer -Nick Messer of Manhattan (RL County), Evergy Supervisor Field Design -Derek Moon of Milford (GE County), DPW Environmental Supervisory Fish and Wildlife Biologist -Cory Odell of Junction City (GE County), Junction City Police Department, Investigations Division Captain -Jeremy J O'Donnell of Manhattan (RL County), Fort Riley Garrison Executive Officer -Fredrick D Reid of Junction City (GE County), Prairie Heritage Executive Board Member -Tom Reust of St. George (PT County), US Army Public Affairs Specialist -Paul Schliffke of Wamego (PT County), City of Wamego Chief of Police -Steve Schurle of Manhattan (PT County), Riley County Commercial Real Estate Analyst -Anne Smith of Manhattan (RL County), Flint Hills Area Transportation Agency Executive Director -Juliana Tobon of Fort Riley (GE County), Junction City Treasurer -Morgan Todd of Junction City (GE County), Central National Bank Commercial Lending Assistant -Nicole Trolio of Manhattan (RL County), US Army Fort Riley MWR, Business Operations Officer

Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program announces next class of leaders

Geary USD 475 will conduct their annual general session Friday in the main gym at Junction City High School. This is the one time during the school year that the majority of the school district employees are gathered together in one place.

There will be multiple speakers including USD 475 Superintendent Dr. Reginald Eggleston, Fort Riley Garrison Commander Colonel Michael Foote, Junction City Education Association President Dana Wiegand, Junction City Mayor Jeff Underhill and Board of Education President Ron Johnson. Education consultant and English teacher Chelonnda Seroyer will serve as the guest speaker.

The event is scheduled to wrap up about 11 a.m. Friday.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639149972465.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>B y Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary USD 475 will conduct their annual general session Friday in the main gym at Junction City High School. This is the one time during the school year that the majority of the school district employees are gathered together in one place.There will be multiple speakers including USD 475 Superintendent Dr. Reginald Eggleston, Fort Riley Garrison Commander Colonel Michael Foote, Junction City Education Association President Dana Wiegand, Junction City Mayor Jeff Underhill and Board of Education President Ron Johnson. Education consultant and English teacher Chelonnda Seroyer will serve as the guest speaker.The event is scheduled to wrap up about 11 a.m. Friday.&nbsp;

USD 475 General Session will be Friday at JCHS

According to the Geary County Sheriff's Department, Deputies responded to U.S. 77 Highway at mile marker 149 early Saturday evening for a single vehicle&nbsp; accident. Erwin R. Sender, Louisville, KS was northbound on a 2006 Harley Davidson. Sender lost control of the motorcycle while maneuvering a curve. Sender was transported to Geary Community Hospital for treatment of his injuries.

According to the Geary County Sheriff's Department, Deputies responded to U.S. 77 Highway at mile marker 149 early Saturday evening for a single vehicle&nbsp; accident. Erwin R. Sender, Louisville, KS was northbound on a 2006 Harley Davidson. Sender lost control of the motorcycle while maneuvering a curve. Sender was transported to Geary Community Hospital for treatment of his injuries.

Deputies respond to motorcycle accident

RILEY COUNTY—A Manhattan man was injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Friday in Manhattan.

A 2006&nbsp;a 2006 Toyota Camry driven by McKenzie Handley, 21, of Manhattan was eastbound at the intersection of Claflin Road and College Boulevard. 

The Toyota rear-ended a 2015 Chrysler 200 driven by Daniel Bond, 22, of Manhattan that was stopped behind a car that was turning. EMS transported Bond to Via Christi for treatment of a possible head injury. Handley was issued a citation for following too close.

RILEY COUNTY—A Manhattan man was injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Friday in Manhattan.A 2006&nbsp;a 2006 Toyota Camry driven by McKenzie Handley, 21, of Manhattan was eastbound at the intersection of Claflin Road and College Boulevard. The Toyota rear-ended a 2015 Chrysler 200 driven by Daniel Bond, 22, of Manhattan that was stopped behind a car that was turning. EMS transported Bond to Via Christi for treatment of a possible head injury. Handley was issued a citation for following too close.

Manhattan man injured after rear-end crash

Greg Doering, Kansas Farm Bureau The biggest bets aren’t made at a card table, racetrack or during the Super Bowl. Instead, they happen every day on farms and ranches across the country. While most bettors place their hopes (and a few dollars) on a single event, those who grow our food face a successive series of wagers with the fate of the farm in the balance. It takes a lot of optimism to grow a crop from seed or raise an animal from birth when so much is often out of your control. Perils from Mother Nature abound — heat, cold, drought, flood, insects, diseases, storms and fires are just some of the potentially devastating events that can cause a bet to go south. Even if you successfully navigate all of those, you may still find yourself receiving a payout that doesn’t seem to justify all the risk, let alone the expense of production. Resolve is necessary in a business where just breaking even sometimes counts as a remarkable achievement. Not losing everything means you get to stay at the table. There’s always a reason that next year will be better, fewer repairs needed, better weather, higher prices and so on. Thankfully, farmers and ranchers have access to risk management tools and other programs through the farm bill. Their jobs still take plenty of optimism, resolve and courage, but it makes the lean years a little more bearable. With work on the 2023 farm bill already underway, it’s important to remember the difficulties that come with food production. The farm bill doesn’t just offer protection for farmers and ranchers, it’s also a national security package. A robust domestic food supply strengthens our country while offering consumers the benefit of high-quality, affordable food. The farm bill’s nutrition component provides help to&nbsp;our most vulnerable brethren. Other aspects of the bill fund conservation programs and make investments in agricultural research. The farm bill has a long history of broad, bipartisan support in Congress because it comprehensively addresses the threats inherent in producing food. Cynics like to claim it merely buys votes with programs aimed at both rural (crop insurance) and urban populations (nutrition programs), but the two are linked. This is something the skeptics misunderstand. What happens at farm level can’t be separated from the food going to towns and cities. The unity of nutrition and farm programs has been one of the greatest successes of the farm bill, and it should be the bedrock of the upcoming legislation. These safety nets don’t eliminate all the risks that come with production agriculture, but they do tilt the odds ever so slightly. Just as homeowners buy insurance hoping it’s never needed; farmers don’t plant a crop with the intention of it failing. Similarly, nobody sets out with the goal of needing the nutrition programs offered under the farm bill. Farming will always be a big gamble. The safest bet the rest of us can make is ensuring those who grow and raise the food we eat have the tools they need to continue providing us with healthy, safe, nutritious and affordable food for years to come.

"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;

Greg Doering, Kansas Farm Bureau The biggest bets aren’t made at a card table, racetrack or during the Super Bowl. Instead, they happen every day on farms and ranches across the country. While most bettors place their hopes (and a few dollars) on a single event, those who grow our food face a successive series of wagers with the fate of the farm in the balance. It takes a lot of optimism to grow a crop from seed or raise an animal from birth when so much is often out of your control. Perils from Mother Nature abound — heat, cold, drought, flood, insects, diseases, storms and fires are just some of the potentially devastating events that can cause a bet to go south. Even if you successfully navigate all of those, you may still find yourself receiving a payout that doesn’t seem to justify all the risk, let alone the expense of production. Resolve is necessary in a business where just breaking even sometimes counts as a remarkable achievement. Not losing everything means you get to stay at the table. There’s always a reason that next year will be better, fewer repairs needed, better weather, higher prices and so on. Thankfully, farmers and ranchers have access to risk management tools and other programs through the farm bill. Their jobs still take plenty of optimism, resolve and courage, but it makes the lean years a little more bearable. With work on the 2023 farm bill already underway, it’s important to remember the difficulties that come with food production. The farm bill doesn’t just offer protection for farmers and ranchers, it’s also a national security package. A robust domestic food supply strengthens our country while offering consumers the benefit of high-quality, affordable food. The farm bill’s nutrition component provides help to&nbsp;our most vulnerable brethren. Other aspects of the bill fund conservation programs and make investments in agricultural research. The farm bill has a long history of broad, bipartisan support in Congress because it comprehensively addresses the threats inherent in producing food. Cynics like to claim it merely buys votes with programs aimed at both rural (crop insurance) and urban populations (nutrition programs), but the two are linked. This is something the skeptics misunderstand. What happens at farm level can’t be separated from the food going to towns and cities. The unity of nutrition and farm programs has been one of the greatest successes of the farm bill, and it should be the bedrock of the upcoming legislation. These safety nets don’t eliminate all the risks that come with production agriculture, but they do tilt the odds ever so slightly. Just as homeowners buy insurance hoping it’s never needed; farmers don’t plant a crop with the intention of it failing. Similarly, nobody sets out with the goal of needing the nutrition programs offered under the farm bill. Farming will always be a big gamble. The safest bet the rest of us can make is ensuring those who grow and raise the food we eat have the tools they need to continue providing us with healthy, safe, nutritious and affordable food for years to come."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;

Betting on the Farm

USD 475 officials and the Fort Riley Garrison Commander will conduct a signing ceremony for a Design-Build Intergovernmental Support Agreement at Garrison Headquarters Tuesday at 1:30 p.m.

The agreement will create cost savings and efficiencies by allowing Fort Riley to pay USD 475 utilizing a more efficient acquisition strategy than traditional contracting methods. The plan is for the school district to benefit through increased workload to stabilize the workforce and strengthen relations between Fort Riley and the USD 475 community.

The agreement will apply to design-build, purchasing cooperatives, indefinite quantity building and infrastructure, U.S. capital improvement, repair and maintenance projects on Fort Riley.

USD 475 officials and the Fort Riley Garrison Commander will conduct a signing ceremony for a Design-Build Intergovernmental Support Agreement at Garrison Headquarters Tuesday at 1:30 p.m.The agreement will create cost savings and efficiencies by allowing Fort Riley to pay USD 475 utilizing a more efficient acquisition strategy than traditional contracting methods. The plan is for the school district to benefit through increased workload to stabilize the workforce and strengthen relations between Fort Riley and the USD 475 community.The agreement will apply to design-build, purchasing cooperatives, indefinite quantity building and infrastructure, U.S. capital improvement, repair and maintenance projects on Fort Riley.

Fort Riley and USD 475 will partner for a design-build agreement

Sen. Jerry Moran said this past week that&nbsp; the importance of Fort Riley to the nation's defense was conveyed during a visit to the Post by the U.S. Army Chief of Staff, Gen. James McConville. "Certainly our work in Europe as it relates to Ukraine and Russia, and to demonstrate that if there are to be any increase in forces to be deployed any place in the United States that Fort Riley is an installation that will be considered for that. "

Moran noted that McConville understands the desire of local and Kansas officials for more troops, such as another brigade to be stationed at Fort Riley. That is not in the plan right now. "The issue that the Army faces today before we can look at the deployment of additional soldiers to Kansas, to Fort Riley, is the Army has to recruit and retain members of the military."&nbsp;

Recruitment is down so the Senator noted that much of the conversation involved how to improve the Army's opportunity to attract and retain members. "For us to have success in additional deployments to Fort Riley the Army has to do it's job of recruiting soldiers."

Measures that have been undertaken by Fort Riley include members of the Army across Kansas and this region showing the benefit of Fort Riley, what goes on at the Post and connecting with citizens. "Big Army including its recruitment battalions are working harder in schools connecting with teachers, guidance counselors and school superintendents with the effort of making sure we get members of the Army into their hometown schools." Moran added personal contact can be helpful.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661736263215.png" alt="Photos courtesy Senator Moran" />
 <figcaption>Photos courtesy Senator Moran</figcaption>
 </figure>Sen. Jerry Moran said this past week that&nbsp; the importance of Fort Riley to the nation's defense was conveyed during a visit to the Post by the U.S. Army Chief of Staff, Gen. James McConville. "Certainly our work in Europe as it relates to Ukraine and Russia, and to demonstrate that if there are to be any increase in forces to be deployed any place in the United States that Fort Riley is an installation that will be considered for that. "Moran noted that McConville understands the desire of local and Kansas officials for more troops, such as another brigade to be stationed at Fort Riley. That is not in the plan right now. "The issue that the Army faces today before we can look at the deployment of additional soldiers to Kansas, to Fort Riley, is the Army has to recruit and retain members of the military."&nbsp;Recruitment is down so the Senator noted that much of the conversation involved how to improve the Army's opportunity to attract and retain members. "For us to have success in additional deployments to Fort Riley the Army has to do it's job of recruiting soldiers."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661736234251.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Measures that have been undertaken by Fort Riley include members of the Army across Kansas and this region showing the benefit of Fort Riley, what goes on at the Post and connecting with citizens. "Big Army including its recruitment battalions are working harder in schools connecting with teachers, guidance counselors and school superintendents with the effort of making sure we get members of the Army into their hometown schools." Moran added personal contact can be helpful.

Sen. Moran hosts U.S. Army Chief of Staff at Fort Riley

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall attended a briefing last week with Stormont Vail Health and Geary Community Hospital officials on the plans where GCH will eventually come under the auspices of Stormont Vail on Jan.1.

Marshall called working with Stormont Vail a great opportunity. "And I think encouraging Stormont Vail to bring their surgeons here, to make sure that their radiology team, that oncology services are offered here to turn the bottom line around for this hospital is the long term goal."

Marshall was encouraged by the fact that Stormont Vail surgeons are already doing surgery at GCH. "So many places want to what we would call swoop and scoop. They want to come into a community and scoop away all the profitable part of healthcare but frankly, outpatient surgery is a profit center and so the best news I've heard today ( Thursday ) is that Stormont Vail surgeons are already doing cases here."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661736314481.jpeg" alt="Sen. Roger Marshall seated at the end of the table with Junction City, Geary County, Geary Community Hospital and Stormont Vail Health officials on either side." />
 <figcaption>Sen. Roger Marshall seated at the end of the table with Junction City, Geary County, Geary Community Hospital and Stormont Vail Health officials on either side.</figcaption>
 </figure>U.S. Senator Roger Marshall attended a briefing last week with Stormont Vail Health and Geary Community Hospital officials on the plans where GCH will eventually come under the auspices of Stormont Vail on Jan.1.Marshall called working with Stormont Vail a great opportunity. "And I think encouraging Stormont Vail to bring their surgeons here, to make sure that their radiology team, that oncology services are offered here to turn the bottom line around for this hospital is the long term goal."Marshall was encouraged by the fact that Stormont Vail surgeons are already doing surgery at GCH. "So many places want to what we would call swoop and scoop. They want to come into a community and scoop away all the profitable part of healthcare but frankly, outpatient surgery is a profit center and so the best news I've heard today ( Thursday ) is that Stormont Vail surgeons are already doing cases here."

Sen. Marshall receives an update on Geary Community Hospital

Local businesses will be featured in Heritage Park from 5 - 8 p.m. Tuesday during the Junction City Expo. They can showcase both products and services.&nbsp;

Jordan McCann, Chamber of Commerce Member Relations Coordinator, said it's a&nbsp; good way to get acquainted with&nbsp; businesses. In addition to vendors there will be performances from Junction City High School and demonstrations by a martial arts studio. "Great networking event, great if you are a business owner and you want to get your business out there. "

You can purchase some items during the Expo. McCann noted that there will be for-profit, nonprofit and informational booths at the event. Businesses and organizations represented will range from the City and USD 475 to insurance agents, craft and&nbsp; food vendors.

Local businesses will be featured in Heritage Park from 5 - 8 p.m. Tuesday during the Junction City Expo. They can showcase both products and services.&nbsp;Jordan McCann, Chamber of Commerce Member Relations Coordinator, said it's a&nbsp; good way to get acquainted with&nbsp; businesses. In addition to vendors there will be performances from Junction City High School and demonstrations by a martial arts studio. "Great networking event, great if you are a business owner and you want to get your business out there. "You can purchase some items during the Expo. McCann noted that there will be for-profit, nonprofit and informational booths at the event. Businesses and organizations represented will range from the City and USD 475 to insurance agents, craft and&nbsp; food vendors.

Junction City Expo is set for Tuesday night

Fishing, games and prizes were all part of the 5th annual Brandon Stroda Fishing Derby Saturday at Homer's Pond in Junction City. Terrah Stroda noted the event was held in honor of her late husband, "whose sole purpose with the fatherhood initiative was to bring the community, children, fathers and moms together."

Terrah observed the community together, "fishing, which was one of his loves and a lot of smiles both with parents and with kids."

Alex Tyson with Geared Up Dads and Delivering Change worked to coordinate the event at Homer's Pond. He noted there were some fish caught. "We had a young man, he had a giant net, he drug his fish over here."&nbsp;

Tyson said the Derby is done for two reasons. "We do it to really celebrate the man that Brandon was. He was always about family and being outdoors and doing things. And then also to really bring the community out and bring them around each other, and making sure that we're giving back and providing a good family fun experience."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661653565209.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostFishing, games and prizes were all part of the 5th annual Brandon Stroda Fishing Derby Saturday at Homer's Pond in Junction City. Terrah Stroda noted the event was held in honor of her late husband, "whose sole purpose with the fatherhood initiative was to bring the community, children, fathers and moms together."Terrah observed the community together, "fishing, which was one of his loves and a lot of smiles both with parents and with kids."Alex Tyson with Geared Up Dads and Delivering Change worked to coordinate the event at Homer's Pond. He noted there were some fish caught. "We had a young man, he had a giant net, he drug his fish over here."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661653617085.jpeg" alt="Alex Tyson at the Brandon Stroda Fishing Derby" />
 <figcaption>Alex Tyson at the Brandon Stroda Fishing Derby</figcaption>
 </figure>Tyson said the Derby is done for two reasons. "We do it to really celebrate the man that Brandon was. He was always about family and being outdoors and doing things. And then also to really bring the community out and bring them around each other, and making sure that we're giving back and providing a good family fun experience."

Community members enjoy the Brandon Stroda Fishing Derby

There were hugs, a lot of laughter, a little emotion and one big THANK YOU from the Geary County community to Chuck Otte on Saturday during his retirement reception at the 4-H / Senior Center. Otte will wrap up a 40-year career as the Geary County agricultural extension agent next Friday ( Sept. 2 ). He is retiring but does plan to continue residing in the county.

There was an opportunity to visit with Chuck and his wife Jaye, one-on-one, followed by a "Chuck Roast" where friends told funny stories about Otte and congratulated him on his career.&nbsp;

There were funny stories and sincere comments that left the audience chuckling or nodding their heads in agreement:

-- "We're the lucky ones who've had you ( Chuck ) for 40 years."

--"We love you. You've done a great job."

--To the community. "Great to see the support you're giving him."

--Otte initially had planned to stay in Geary County three to five years but one humorist from Nebraska ( Chuck's home state ) noted, "Geary County we extend our sincere sympathy to you for having to put up with Chuck for 40 years."

Members of a panel participated in the roast emceed by retired KJCK radio broadcaster Mark Ediger.&nbsp;

Among the speakers was Geary County Commissioner and Catbacker Club leader Keith Ascher. Otte is a graduate of the University of Nebraska but spent four decades working for KSU Research &amp; Extension.&nbsp; Ascher presented gifts to Chuck and Jaye including flowers for her and to Chuck a football autographed by former K-State coach Bill Snyder.

Wrapping up the event, Otte explained you remain in one job for 40 and a half years when you love who you are working with, working for and what you do. He encouraged the community to give the new agent support, and have the patience to allow that person to become the best agent they can be.

A new agent should be hired in the September, October, November time frame.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThere were hugs, a lot of laughter, a little emotion and one big THANK YOU from the Geary County community to Chuck Otte on Saturday during his retirement reception at the 4-H / Senior Center. Otte will wrap up a 40-year career as the Geary County agricultural extension agent next Friday ( Sept. 2 ). He is retiring but does plan to continue residing in the county.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661649829650.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>There was an opportunity to visit with Chuck and his wife Jaye, one-on-one, followed by a "Chuck Roast" where friends told funny stories about Otte and congratulated him on his career.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661651425639.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>There were funny stories and sincere comments that left the audience chuckling or nodding their heads in agreement:-- "We're the lucky ones who've had you ( Chuck ) for 40 years."--"We love you. You've done a great job."--To the community. "Great to see the support you're giving him."--Otte initially had planned to stay in Geary County three to five years but one humorist from Nebraska ( Chuck's home state ) noted, "Geary County we extend our sincere sympathy to you for having to put up with Chuck for 40 years."Members of a panel participated in the roast emceed by retired KJCK radio broadcaster Mark Ediger.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661650747983.jpeg" alt="Keith Ascher speaking during the "Chuck Roast."" />
 <figcaption>Keith Ascher speaking during the "Chuck Roast."</figcaption>
 </figure>Among the speakers was Geary County Commissioner and Catbacker Club leader Keith Ascher. Otte is a graduate of the University of Nebraska but spent four decades working for KSU Research &amp; Extension.&nbsp; Ascher presented gifts to Chuck and Jaye including flowers for her and to Chuck a football autographed by former K-State coach Bill Snyder.Wrapping up the event, Otte explained you remain in one job for 40 and a half years when you love who you are working with, working for and what you do. He encouraged the community to give the new agent support, and have the patience to allow that person to become the best agent they can be.A new agent should be hired in the September, October, November time frame.

Community members give Chuck Otte a big retirement send off

(August 26, 2022) – Stormont Vail Health’s recent partnership with Geary Community Hospital and Rural Health Clinic in Junction City has resulted in increased access to healthcare services delivered by Stormont Vail medical specialists and other providers in the region. 

According to a release from Stormont Vail Health these services are in addition to inpatient and clinic services already provided at the Geary Community facility by the GCH team of physicians, advance practice providers and team. The goal of these efforts is to enhance access to high-quality primary and specialty care, surgical and procedural needs, and emergency and inpatient care that is closer to home for those living and working in Geary County and surrounding areas.

Providers who have started or have plans to provide services at Geary Community Hospital since Stormont Vail Health began managing operations at GCH include:

 Mitchell J. Bartley, D.O., will begin providing care at Geary Community Wound Care on Wednesdays,

beginning Aug. 31. A Stormont Vail provider, Dr. Bartley is a board certified Family Medicine specialist and has additional training in wound care.

 Nicholas Duethman, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon with Orthopaedic &amp; Sports Medicine Center and Manhattan Surgical Hospital, began providing services at Geary Community Hospital and Rural Health Clinic this week. He will perform surgeries on Wednesdays and have clinics on Thursdays.

 Wael Khreiss, M.D., a Stormont Vail general surgeon who is also medical director of the bariatrics program, is now providing clinic and surgeries in Junction City.

 Travis Dierenfeld, M.D., a gastroenterologist with Stormont Vail in Manhattan, provides digestive health procedures on Thursdays at Geary Community. Plans are for Molly Disbrow, M.D., and Paul Zachary, M.D., to eventually provide digestive health services at Geary Community as well.

 David B. Kemp, M.D., an obstetrician-gynecologist with Stormont Vail in Emporia, will provide back-up coverage to the Geary Community OB team.

 Laura Hughes, M.D., and Pamela Grant, M.D., and the Stormont Vail Maternal Fetal Medicine team will be offering clinics and OB imaging services to patients three days a month at Geary Community.

 Fouad Medlej, M.D., a Stormont Vail Pediatric Hospitalist, has assisted at GCH in inpatient pediatrics.

 Gilbert Katz, M.D., and Patrick Birkbeck, M.D., Stormont Vail cardiologists, continue to provide cardiology services at Geary Community.

 Tyler Grindal, M.D., Topeka Ear Nose and Throat, has an outpatient clinic and does surgery at GCH.


(August 26, 2022) – Stormont Vail Health’s recent partnership with Geary Community Hospital and Rural Health Clinic in Junction City has resulted in increased access to healthcare services delivered by Stormont Vail medical specialists and other providers in the region. According to a release from Stormont Vail Health these services are in addition to inpatient and clinic services already provided at the Geary Community facility by the GCH team of physicians, advance practice providers and team. The goal of these efforts is to enhance access to high-quality primary and specialty care, surgical and procedural needs, and emergency and inpatient care that is closer to home for those living and working in Geary County and surrounding areas.Providers who have started or have plans to provide services at Geary Community Hospital since Stormont Vail Health began managing operations at GCH include: Mitchell J. Bartley, D.O., will begin providing care at Geary Community Wound Care on Wednesdays,beginning Aug. 31. A Stormont Vail provider, Dr. Bartley is a board certified Family Medicine specialist and has additional training in wound care. Nicholas Duethman, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon with Orthopaedic &amp; Sports Medicine Center and Manhattan Surgical Hospital, began providing services at Geary Community Hospital and Rural Health Clinic this week. He will perform surgeries on Wednesdays and have clinics on Thursdays. Wael Khreiss, M.D., a Stormont Vail general surgeon who is also medical director of the bariatrics program, is now providing clinic and surgeries in Junction City. Travis Dierenfeld, M.D., a gastroenterologist with Stormont Vail in Manhattan, provides digestive health procedures on Thursdays at Geary Community. Plans are for Molly Disbrow, M.D., and Paul Zachary, M.D., to eventually provide digestive health services at Geary Community as well. David B. Kemp, M.D., an obstetrician-gynecologist with Stormont Vail in Emporia, will provide back-up coverage to the Geary Community OB team. Laura Hughes, M.D., and Pamela Grant, M.D., and the Stormont Vail Maternal Fetal Medicine team will be offering clinics and OB imaging services to patients three days a month at Geary Community. Fouad Medlej, M.D., a Stormont Vail Pediatric Hospitalist, has assisted at GCH in inpatient pediatrics. Gilbert Katz, M.D., and Patrick Birkbeck, M.D., Stormont Vail cardiologists, continue to provide cardiology services at Geary Community. Tyler Grindal, M.D., Topeka Ear Nose and Throat, has an outpatient clinic and does surgery at GCH.

Additional Physicians Provide Access to Healthcare Services in Geary County, Region

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman for crimes involving small children.

Just after 2 p.m. Thursday, police arrested 26-year-old Maria Bryan of Manhattan on a Riley County District Court Warrant for aggravated battery and three counts of endangering a child, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The arrest is in connection with a March 22, incident where where Bryan allegedly caused bodily harm to and placed a two-year-old girl in a situation where the child's wellbeing was endangered and a June 5,&nbsp; incident where she placed the same victim and a now seven-year-old boy in an additional situation where the child's wellbeing was endangered. 

Bryan remains jailed on a bond of $13,000, according to the RCPD.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman for crimes involving small children.Just after 2 p.m. Thursday, police arrested 26-year-old Maria Bryan of Manhattan on a Riley County District Court Warrant for aggravated battery and three counts of endangering a child, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The arrest is in connection with a March 22, incident where where Bryan allegedly caused bodily harm to and placed a two-year-old girl in a situation where the child's wellbeing was endangered and a June 5,&nbsp; incident where she placed the same victim and a now seven-year-old boy in an additional situation where the child's wellbeing was endangered. Bryan remains jailed on a bond of $13,000, according to the RCPD.

Manhattan woman jailed for alleged child endangerment

Kansas Department of Health &amp; Envronment has updated their blue green algae status report for lakes and rivers in Kansas.

For this area Milford Lake Zone C, the northern end in Geary and Clay County, is under a warning along with the Gathering Pond below the Milford Lake Dam in Geary County.

Kansas Department of Health &amp; Envronment has updated their blue green algae status report for lakes and rivers in Kansas.For this area Milford Lake Zone C, the northern end in Geary and Clay County, is under a warning along with the Gathering Pond below the Milford Lake Dam in Geary County.

Blue green algae status is updated by KDHE

Geary County Commissioners outlined the plan Thursday night to save Geary Community Hospital through an agreement with Stormont Vail Health. That company will oversee the operations at the hospital completely in January, and they are already providing assistance.

Some of the key points during a public presentation at the C.L. Hoover Opera House included the fact that GCH has been operating at a one million dollar per month deficit.&nbsp; That is expected to change in the future.

Stormont Vail will install the record management billing system called Epic, which should lead to monetary savings, will schedule more surgeries including nine yesterday ( Thursday ) alone, and will employ some of their own doctors in the emergency room. Stormont will be investing $20 million of their own money into the GCH facility for infrastructure improvements over the next five years. Geary County will issue revenue bonds totaling approximately $32 million to cover existing debt, short term operational funds and infrastructure improvements needed this year and money for $20 million in future infrastructure improvements. County debt would be retired in 2048.&nbsp;

All current GCH employees are being given the opportunity to interview for jobs if they would like to remain at the hospital, and there is no reason to expect they would not be retained.

Annual property taxes to support the hospital will not increase.

Commissioner Keith Ascher told the audience at the Opera House this has been a long struggle but officials wanted to be sure that they had all the i's dotted and t's crossed before they could share information with the public.&nbsp;

During&nbsp; the process to make a future decision on the hospital, Commissioner Trish Giordano commented that they had three options. They included operating at a $1 million per month deficit, closing the hospital but with debt the building couldn't be reopened until grandfathered code violations were addressed, or they could partner with someone. The latter option was chosen.

The end goal was to ensure Junction City still has a hospital.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661481153771.jpeg" alt="Commissioner Trish Giordano speaking at the podium. Seated were County Finance Director Tami Robison plus Commissioners Alex Tyson and Keith Ascher." />
 <figcaption>Commissioner Trish Giordano speaking at the podium. Seated were County Finance Director Tami Robison plus Commissioners Alex Tyson and Keith Ascher.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary County Commissioners outlined the plan Thursday night to save Geary Community Hospital through an agreement with Stormont Vail Health. That company will oversee the operations at the hospital completely in January, and they are already providing assistance.Some of the key points during a public presentation at the C.L. Hoover Opera House included the fact that GCH has been operating at a one million dollar per month deficit.&nbsp; That is expected to change in the future.Stormont Vail will install the record management billing system called Epic, which should lead to monetary savings, will schedule more surgeries including nine yesterday ( Thursday ) alone, and will employ some of their own doctors in the emergency room. Stormont will be investing $20 million of their own money into the GCH facility for infrastructure improvements over the next five years. Geary County will issue revenue bonds totaling approximately $32 million to cover existing debt, short term operational funds and infrastructure improvements needed this year and money for $20 million in future infrastructure improvements. County debt would be retired in 2048.&nbsp;All current GCH employees are being given the opportunity to interview for jobs if they would like to remain at the hospital, and there is no reason to expect they would not be retained.Annual property taxes to support the hospital will not increase.Commissioner Keith Ascher told the audience at the Opera House this has been a long struggle but officials wanted to be sure that they had all the i's dotted and t's crossed before they could share information with the public.&nbsp;During&nbsp; the process to make a future decision on the hospital, Commissioner Trish Giordano commented that they had three options. They included operating at a $1 million per month deficit, closing the hospital but with debt the building couldn't be reopened until grandfathered code violations were addressed, or they could partner with someone. The latter option was chosen.The end goal was to ensure Junction City still has a hospital.

Geary County leaders outline the hospital agreement

Recruiting is down for the U.S. Army but the Executive Director for the Governor's Military Council Perry Wiggins said Thursday that the answer is not redirecting the force structure.&nbsp;

Wiggins said recruiting is a nation's mission. "So I think it's incumbent on everybody in our nation and in our communities to reach out to those young individuals that have a service kind of gene in them and say I think you're perfect for serving in our military."

Wiggins noted that strengthening recruitment is not necessarily done through dollars. In the past some incidents have eroded parents confidence on serving in the armed forces and some are not sure.

The retired Lt. Gen. commented to a Military Affairs Council breakfast in Geary County that as a nation we need to support the armed&nbsp; forces in recruitment,&nbsp; and old adversaries are raising their faces again. They want to destroy our way of life and our freedoms and liberties are challenged.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostRecruiting is down for the U.S. Army but the Executive Director for the Governor's Military Council Perry Wiggins said Thursday that the answer is not redirecting the force structure.&nbsp;Wiggins said recruiting is a nation's mission. "So I think it's incumbent on everybody in our nation and in our communities to reach out to those young individuals that have a service kind of gene in them and say I think you're perfect for serving in our military."Wiggins noted that strengthening recruitment is not necessarily done through dollars. In the past some incidents have eroded parents confidence on serving in the armed forces and some are not sure.The retired Lt. Gen. commented to a Military Affairs Council breakfast in Geary County that as a nation we need to support the armed&nbsp; forces in recruitment,&nbsp; and old adversaries are raising their faces again. They want to destroy our way of life and our freedoms and liberties are challenged.

Army recruiting struggles are a focus at the MAC breakfast

Geary Community Hospital has entered into a letter of intent with B K &amp; Medical to provide quality medical equipment and supplies, sales and services to local residents and patients.

The deal with announced by the interim administrator of Geary Community, Margaret Grismer. "B &amp; K Medical will operate with an emphasis on long-term oxygen therapy in the patient home and sleep therapy with a focus on management of patients with obstructive sleep apnea and other sleep disorders."

They also plan to provide medical equipment for patients ranging from hospital beds and wheel chairs to lift chairs, scooters and walkers. B &amp; K will also provide medical supplies for home use such as wound care supplies and bathroom aides of all types.

The company plans to establish a retail location on Ash Street in the former Home Medical Equipment building. Their intent is to retain all employees.

B &amp; K Medical has a long history of patient centered care in central Kansas including Salina, Hutchinson, Ellsworth and Abilene. They are a branch office of B &amp; K Prescription Shop Inc.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary Community Hospital has entered into a letter of intent with B K &amp; Medical to provide quality medical equipment and supplies, sales and services to local residents and patients.The deal with announced by the interim administrator of Geary Community, Margaret Grismer. "B &amp; K Medical will operate with an emphasis on long-term oxygen therapy in the patient home and sleep therapy with a focus on management of patients with obstructive sleep apnea and other sleep disorders."They also plan to provide medical equipment for patients ranging from hospital beds and wheel chairs to lift chairs, scooters and walkers. B &amp; K will also provide medical supplies for home use such as wound care supplies and bathroom aides of all types.The company plans to establish a retail location on Ash Street in the former Home Medical Equipment building. Their intent is to retain all employees.B &amp; K Medical has a long history of patient centered care in central Kansas including Salina, Hutchinson, Ellsworth and Abilene. They are a branch office of B &amp; K Prescription Shop Inc.

GCH announces letter of intent with medical equipment supply company

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

The Riley County Police Department (RCPD) has posted a warning on their social media accounts, letting the community know of an increase in overdoses presumably due to fake pills.

RCPD says they've responded to 4 overdoses in the last week, with two of them involving juveniles, one of them occurring at Manhattan High School, during school hours.

RCPD said the overdoses are presumed to be caused by the individuals taking fake, pressed prescription pills containing Fentanyl.

Fentanyl has reached the top of the list for cause of death in Americans between the ages of 18-45, in just one year.

RCPD recommends that parents have a conversation with their children about how dangerous the fake pills can be.

RCPD says if someone overdoses, that person is not a suspect in the investigation, their goal is to identify, apprehend and prosecute the individual(s) who are distributing the fake pills.

If you have any information about the distribution of these counterfeit pills you can submit a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777 or contact RCPD at (785) 537-2112 and ask to speak with the Special Investigations Unit (SIU).

An anonymous report can be <a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353&amp;fbclid=IwAR1SmeNcAmJq6V73iTieGr6GsaItdeNqOF4Mmq_WqGoWMo3Cg1urOwzr9bg">submitted online using this link</a>.

Additional details can be found in the post below by RileyCountyPD.

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostThe Riley County Police Department (RCPD) has posted a warning on their social media accounts, letting the community know of an increase in overdoses presumably due to fake pills.RCPD says they've responded to 4 overdoses in the last week, with two of them involving juveniles, one of them occurring at Manhattan High School, during school hours.RCPD said the overdoses are presumed to be caused by the individuals taking fake, pressed prescription pills containing Fentanyl.Fentanyl has reached the top of the list for cause of death in Americans between the ages of 18-45, in just one year.RCPD recommends that parents have a conversation with their children about how dangerous the fake pills can be.RCPD says if someone overdoses, that person is not a suspect in the investigation, their goal is to identify, apprehend and prosecute the individual(s) who are distributing the fake pills.If you have any information about the distribution of these counterfeit pills you can submit a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777 or contact RCPD at (785) 537-2112 and ask to speak with the Special Investigations Unit (SIU).An anonymous report can be <a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353&amp;fbclid=IwAR1SmeNcAmJq6V73iTieGr6GsaItdeNqOF4Mmq_WqGoWMo3Cg1urOwzr9bg">submitted online using this link</a>.Additional details can be found in the post below by RileyCountyPD.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FRileyCountyPD%2Fposts%2Fpfbid035Ggzs3RyZf8wuMTeB5aneUPSYgX97464pyFH12FmYd9dTLrWSXhUvE1sMcfKDzHSl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="757" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

RCPD warns of overdoses involving fentanyl at high school

MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged child sex crimes and have made an arrest.

On Thursday, the Riley County Police Department arrested 39-year-old Leif Forster of Salina in connection to sex crimes reported to have occurred in Ogden between August 2021 and May 2022 involving two, now nine-year-old female victims.

Forster was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant on requested charges of aggravated criminal sodomy and aggravated indecent liberties with a child. He remains confined in the Riley County Jail on a total bond of $500,000.

MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged child sex crimes and have made an arrest.On Thursday, the Riley County Police Department arrested 39-year-old Leif Forster of Salina in connection to sex crimes reported to have occurred in Ogden between August 2021 and May 2022 involving two, now nine-year-old female victims.Forster was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant on requested charges of aggravated criminal sodomy and aggravated indecent liberties with a child. He remains confined in the Riley County Jail on a total bond of $500,000.

RCPD: Kan. man accused of child sex crimes with 2 victims

Longtime Geary County Extension Agent Chuck Otte is retiring in September. His accomplishments, connections and commitment to Geary County and the KSRE system will be honored during a retirement celebration Saturday, Aug. 27th from 2-5 p.m. at the 4-H / Senior Citizens Center.&nbsp;

The afternoon will begin with a casual come-and-go type reception at 2 p.m. and will transition to a more formal event, "The Chuck Roast," at 4 p.m.&nbsp; Otte will be seated front and center as the man of the hour with guests being asked to share stories and puns honoring his work. Recently retired broadcaster Mark Ediger will emcee the roast with added humor of his own.

Longtime Geary County Extension Agent Chuck Otte is retiring in September. His accomplishments, connections and commitment to Geary County and the KSRE system will be honored during a retirement celebration Saturday, Aug. 27th from 2-5 p.m. at the 4-H / Senior Citizens Center.&nbsp;The afternoon will begin with a casual come-and-go type reception at 2 p.m. and will transition to a more formal event, "The Chuck Roast," at 4 p.m.&nbsp; Otte will be seated front and center as the man of the hour with guests being asked to share stories and puns honoring his work. Recently retired broadcaster Mark Ediger will emcee the roast with added humor of his own.

Chuck Otte retirement reception will be held Saturday

Geary County Commissioner Trish Giordano has issued a response to comments by her opponent in the 1st District county commission race, Brad Roether. He hosted a meet and greet for his campaign this week and talked with JC Post.

Giordano said statements by Roether and reported in a JC Post article have concerned her.

His themes were transparency and conservative budgeting and spending. Giordano said she agrees it's important to be transparent to the public. "Over the past 15 months, Geary County has made great strides towards more transparency by providing detailed commission agendas, recording commission meetings and encouraging public comments and input." She noted that her opponent had served as mayor of Milford for several years but city budgets and audits are not available on the Milford website. "

Giordano believes being available to constituents should be a top priority as an elected official but she commented elected and appointed official email addresses and cell phone numbers are not on Milford's website. "How can constituents contact Milford officials directly?"

Giordano expressed surprise that Roether would be concerned that the county's property tax levy decreased 10 mills since he was calling for conservative budgeting but citing the need for carryover cash in case of a crisis. Giordano added that the county's carryover cash was three times that of Milford's budget which is sufficient for a county of this size.&nbsp;

The commissioner noted in hiring a&nbsp; finance officer and with help from department heads they were able to implement line-item budgeting to show where the money is going, decrease levied funds, incorporate an identifiable cash reserve, add money for capital programs and bring in a wage study for the employees plus include recently proposed debt for the hospital along with other debt service requirements.&nbsp;

On the subject of executive sessions concerning the hospital, Giordano commented that negotiations and legal issues are permissible and necessary when discussing sensitive issues.&nbsp; Past actions can't be changed.&nbsp; The debt will not disappear and the county is responsible for it. What is being done is moving forward with creation of a sustainable debt plan that does not overburden taxpayers of today or the future knowing both will benefit from&nbsp; the best available option--"leasing to Stormont Vail and keeping the hospital open." Giordano added, "This is the best option for the community."

Giordano said she disagrees with Roether's view that the relationship between the city and county are at an all time low, adding she has been collaborating with city commissioners and school board members on addressing childcare issues. On the subject of Geary County employee morale, an employee assistance program has been started in the past year, improved insurance options and a wage study undertaken. Commissioners take input from employees during meetings and provide them with appreciation events.

Giordano ended her&nbsp; comments by noting Roether is supported by former elected officials and others that didn't feel a finance officer was needed, and believed there was nothing wrong with the way the county budgeted and operated, but improvement has been made in those areas.

Geary County Commissioner Trish Giordano has issued a response to comments by her opponent in the 1st District county commission race, Brad Roether. He hosted a meet and greet for his campaign this week and talked with JC Post.Giordano said statements by Roether and reported in a JC Post article have concerned her.His themes were transparency and conservative budgeting and spending. Giordano said she agrees it's important to be transparent to the public. "Over the past 15 months, Geary County has made great strides towards more transparency by providing detailed commission agendas, recording commission meetings and encouraging public comments and input." She noted that her opponent had served as mayor of Milford for several years but city budgets and audits are not available on the Milford website. "Giordano believes being available to constituents should be a top priority as an elected official but she commented elected and appointed official email addresses and cell phone numbers are not on Milford's website. "How can constituents contact Milford officials directly?"Giordano expressed surprise that Roether would be concerned that the county's property tax levy decreased 10 mills since he was calling for conservative budgeting but citing the need for carryover cash in case of a crisis. Giordano added that the county's carryover cash was three times that of Milford's budget which is sufficient for a county of this size.&nbsp;The commissioner noted in hiring a&nbsp; finance officer and with help from department heads they were able to implement line-item budgeting to show where the money is going, decrease levied funds, incorporate an identifiable cash reserve, add money for capital programs and bring in a wage study for the employees plus include recently proposed debt for the hospital along with other debt service requirements.&nbsp;On the subject of executive sessions concerning the hospital, Giordano commented that negotiations and legal issues are permissible and necessary when discussing sensitive issues.&nbsp; Past actions can't be changed.&nbsp; The debt will not disappear and the county is responsible for it. What is being done is moving forward with creation of a sustainable debt plan that does not overburden taxpayers of today or the future knowing both will benefit from&nbsp; the best available option--"leasing to Stormont Vail and keeping the hospital open." Giordano added, "This is the best option for the community."Giordano said she disagrees with Roether's view that the relationship between the city and county are at an all time low, adding she has been collaborating with city commissioners and school board members on addressing childcare issues. On the subject of Geary County employee morale, an employee assistance program has been started in the past year, improved insurance options and a wage study undertaken. Commissioners take input from employees during meetings and provide them with appreciation events.Giordano ended her&nbsp; comments by noting Roether is supported by former elected officials and others that didn't feel a finance officer was needed, and believed there was nothing wrong with the way the county budgeted and operated, but improvement has been made in those areas.&nbsp;