Stormont Vail Health is providing some services and assistance at Geary Community Hospital now and plans to assume oversight of all operations at&nbsp; the financially challenged facility on Jan. 1.

Tracy O'Rourke, Chief Operations Officer for Stormont Vail, said their mission is to stabilize GCH, and noted the situation is rocky now. She told a meeting of hospital personnel, county and city leaders that the key to a turnaround is getting the patient numbers back up.&nbsp;

Stormont Vail has brought in general surgeons from Topeka. "We're also working with the Manhattan orthopedic and sports medicine team to provide services here and the general surgery group there as well as our GI physicians."

Some medical specialists from Stormont Vail's new medical facility in Manhattan care can also be extended for some patient care to the Geary County campus.

Surgeries are currently trending well at the Junction City facility, and&nbsp; the plan for next year is to have surgical suites full every day.&nbsp;

Geary County Commissioner Trish Giordano observed that as the hospital struggled Geary Community had been only capturing 30% of the patients. Residents in the county were going elsewhere for help. One goal moving forward will be to ensure consistency so patients don't leave here for primary care.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661453752502.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostStormont Vail Health is providing some services and assistance at Geary Community Hospital now and plans to assume oversight of all operations at&nbsp; the financially challenged facility on Jan. 1.Tracy O'Rourke, Chief Operations Officer for Stormont Vail, said their mission is to stabilize GCH, and noted the situation is rocky now. She told a meeting of hospital personnel, county and city leaders that the key to a turnaround is getting the patient numbers back up.&nbsp;Stormont Vail has brought in general surgeons from Topeka. "We're also working with the Manhattan orthopedic and sports medicine team to provide services here and the general surgery group there as well as our GI physicians."Some medical specialists from Stormont Vail's new medical facility in Manhattan care can also be extended for some patient care to the Geary County campus.Surgeries are currently trending well at the Junction City facility, and&nbsp; the plan for next year is to have surgical suites full every day.&nbsp;Geary County Commissioner Trish Giordano observed that as the hospital struggled Geary Community had been only capturing 30% of the patients. Residents in the county were going elsewhere for help. One goal moving forward will be to ensure consistency so patients don't leave here for primary care.

Stormont Vail will seek to stabilize the hospital in Junction City

Perry Wiggins, Executive Director of the Governor's Military Affairs Council, wants to look at possibly eliminating the Kansas Turnpike fee for active duty soldiers or possibly veterans. He said he talks with many of the soldiers and asks what can be done in the state to make their quality of life easier and for them to make Kansas&nbsp; their home. "I was surprised that one of the soldiers said hey sir, I'm getting tired of paying the turnpike tax. "

Wiggins said he is starting to focus on that issue, "and say why can't we here in the state for our active duty service members or at least our veterans eliminate the turnpike fee for those individuals."

Wiggins briefed a Military Affairs Council breakfast audience in Geary County on the subject, and noted the issue is a battle but the effort will be made.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661452968965.jpeg" alt="Perry Wiggins at the local Military Affairs Council breakfast at the Milford Nature Center." />
 <figcaption>Perry Wiggins at the local Military Affairs Council breakfast at the Milford Nature Center.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostPerry Wiggins, Executive Director of the Governor's Military Affairs Council, wants to look at possibly eliminating the Kansas Turnpike fee for active duty soldiers or possibly veterans. He said he talks with many of the soldiers and asks what can be done in the state to make their quality of life easier and for them to make Kansas&nbsp; their home. "I was surprised that one of the soldiers said hey sir, I'm getting tired of paying the turnpike tax. "Wiggins said he is starting to focus on that issue, "and say why can't we here in the state for our active duty service members or at least our veterans eliminate the turnpike fee for those individuals."Wiggins briefed a Military Affairs Council breakfast audience in Geary County on the subject, and noted the issue is a battle but the effort will be made.

Proposed elimination of the Turnpike tax for Soldiers surfaces at MAC

&nbsp;Black History Day at the Museum has been postponed. Previously scheduled for Saturday, August 27th, Black History Day is a joint effort between the Black History Trail of Geary County and the Geary County Historical Society to collect photos, artifacts and personal stories from the Black community throughout Geary County in order to create a Black History exhibit space within the museum. 

According to a release from the museum the event will be rescheduled for later this year. Interested parties are also welcome to call the museum at &nbsp;785-238-1666 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:gearyhistorycurator@gmail.com" target="_blank">gearyhistorycurator@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;to set up an appointment to donate or to record their stories.&nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp;Black History Day at the Museum has been postponed. Previously scheduled for Saturday, August 27th, Black History Day is a joint effort between the Black History Trail of Geary County and the Geary County Historical Society to collect photos, artifacts and personal stories from the Black community throughout Geary County in order to create a Black History exhibit space within the museum. According to a release from the museum the event will be rescheduled for later this year. Interested parties are also welcome to call the museum at &nbsp;785-238-1666 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:gearyhistorycurator@gmail.com" target="_blank">gearyhistorycurator@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;to set up an appointment to donate or to record their stories.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Black History Day will not occur this Saturday

Sapp Brothers, 1913 Lacy Drive, Junction City is hosting a barbecue today ( Thursday ) until approximately 4 p.m. to raise money for the effort to deal with juvenile diabetes.

Jody Denton with Sapp Brothers said a free will donation is being accepted. "Customers just need to come in. Like I said it's a free will donation. They get a polish sausage, a hamburger, chips and a drink. Just trying to give our appreciation back to our customers."

There are also wheel spins for vendor merchandise and a blackstone griddle is being given away.&nbsp;

Sapp Brothers, 1913 Lacy Drive, Junction City is hosting a barbecue today ( Thursday ) until approximately 4 p.m. to raise money for the effort to deal with juvenile diabetes.Jody Denton with Sapp Brothers said a free will donation is being accepted. "Customers just need to come in. Like I said it's a free will donation. They get a polish sausage, a hamburger, chips and a drink. Just trying to give our appreciation back to our customers."There are also wheel spins for vendor merchandise and a blackstone griddle is being given away.&nbsp;

Sapp Brothers raises funds to help combat juvenile diabetes

RILEY COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 4:30pm. Wednesday in Riley County.

A 2009 Hyundai Elantra driven by Gregory West, 64, Manhattan, and a&nbsp;&nbsp; 2018 Jeep Wrangler driven by Jaord Willard, 34, of Ogden were involved in a crash&nbsp;near the intersection of Village Drive and Anderson Avenue in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

EMS transported West and a passenger of his car to Via Christi for treatment of minor injuries. The RCPD released no additional details.

RILEY COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 4:30pm. Wednesday in Riley County.A 2009 Hyundai Elantra driven by Gregory West, 64, Manhattan, and a&nbsp;&nbsp; 2018 Jeep Wrangler driven by Jaord Willard, 34, of Ogden were involved in a crash&nbsp;near the intersection of Village Drive and Anderson Avenue in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.EMS transported West and a passenger of his car to Via Christi for treatment of minor injuries. The RCPD released no additional details.

Manhattan man hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

Brad Roether wants to serve in the 1st District seat on the Geary County Commission. He met with about 30 members of the public during a candidate meet and greet Wednesday evening at the Geary County 4-H / Senior Center.&nbsp;

Transparency and conservative budgeting were themes along with a call for a&nbsp; better working relationship between the county, city and Fort Riley.&nbsp;

Roether noted afterwards for JC Post that he was part of a financial revival in Milford that utilized conservative spending based on research before purchases. "Very conservative how we spend money up there. I think I can bring that to the table for the county."

He was critical of the numerous county commission executive sessions. "We can't do these things behind closed doors and then come out and say here's what we're doing. I'm not that guy. I think the whole thing with the county is, I think there's too many deals they're doing that's behind closed doors and the public doesn't get to know about it." There have been many executive sessions to discuss legal matters related to Geary Community Hospital.

Roether feels the relationship between the county and city is at an all time low. "I sit on the 911 board, I was on the CVB board. It's not good." He added he is hopeful he can bring improvement to the relationship between the county, the city and Fort Riley as well.

On the status of Geary Community Hospital Roether believes a hospital is needed but the County will be in the hole about $83 million that the taxpayers will have to pay. "My understanding is that we have a five year contract ( lease ) with them ( Stormont Vail Health ) starting in January with no guarantees that they're going to buy it for a dollar after five years, or walk away like the last people did."&nbsp;

The current plan is for Stormont Vail Health to assume oversight of Geary Community Hospital under a five-year lease, with the possibility of future renewal.&nbsp;

The county plans to issue $32 million in revenue bonds to pay for operating expenses at GCH until the end of the year and needed infrastructure improvements. A current property tax levy of six mills already used to support the hospital will be used to retire those bonds and also cover existing&nbsp; general obligation bonds, existing revenue bonds through the Public Building Commission,&nbsp; and no-fund warrants that remain.&nbsp;

The $32 million bond issue would be scheduled for payoff in 2048.&nbsp;

Roether also criticized a poor working relationship between his opponent in the election, Trish Giordano, and the sheriff's department plus the decision to reduce the property tax levy for 2023 in the county budget by about 10 mills.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;That impacts carryover funds that could be used in the event of a crisis.&nbsp;Sheriff Dan Jackson who was in attendance, did note however, that the rise in property valuation is why the tax levy was dropped.&nbsp;

If he is elected Roether said he would start by working to improve the relationship between the city and county and the morale of the county employees. "I really feel it's at an all-time low."&nbsp;

Roether, a Republican, is running against incumbent Trish Giordano, an Independent candidate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661391249925.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Brad Roether wants to serve in the 1st District seat on the Geary County Commission. He met with about 30 members of the public during a candidate meet and greet Wednesday evening at the Geary County 4-H / Senior Center.&nbsp;Transparency and conservative budgeting were themes along with a call for a&nbsp; better working relationship between the county, city and Fort Riley.&nbsp;Roether noted afterwards for JC Post that he was part of a financial revival in Milford that utilized conservative spending based on research before purchases. "Very conservative how we spend money up there. I think I can bring that to the table for the county."He was critical of the numerous county commission executive sessions. "We can't do these things behind closed doors and then come out and say here's what we're doing. I'm not that guy. I think the whole thing with the county is, I think there's too many deals they're doing that's behind closed doors and the public doesn't get to know about it." There have been many executive sessions to discuss legal matters related to Geary Community Hospital.Roether feels the relationship between the county and city is at an all time low. "I sit on the 911 board, I was on the CVB board. It's not good." He added he is hopeful he can bring improvement to the relationship between the county, the city and Fort Riley as well.On the status of Geary Community Hospital Roether believes a hospital is needed but the County will be in the hole about $83 million that the taxpayers will have to pay. "My understanding is that we have a five year contract ( lease ) with them ( Stormont Vail Health ) starting in January with no guarantees that they're going to buy it for a dollar after five years, or walk away like the last people did."&nbsp;The current plan is for Stormont Vail Health to assume oversight of Geary Community Hospital under a five-year lease, with the possibility of future renewal.&nbsp;The county plans to issue $32 million in revenue bonds to pay for operating expenses at GCH until the end of the year and needed infrastructure improvements. A current property tax levy of six mills already used to support the hospital will be used to retire those bonds and also cover existing&nbsp; general obligation bonds, existing revenue bonds through the Public Building Commission,&nbsp; and no-fund warrants that remain.&nbsp;

The $32 million bond issue would be scheduled for payoff in 2048.&nbsp;Roether also criticized a poor working relationship between his opponent in the election, Trish Giordano, and the sheriff's department plus the decision to reduce the property tax levy for 2023 in the county budget by about 10 mills.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;That impacts carryover funds that could be used in the event of a crisis.&nbsp;Sheriff Dan Jackson who was in attendance, did note however, that the rise in property valuation is why the tax levy was dropped.&nbsp;If he is elected Roether said he would start by working to improve the relationship between the city and county and the morale of the county employees. "I really feel it's at an all-time low."&nbsp;Roether, a Republican, is running against incumbent Trish Giordano, an Independent candidate.&nbsp;

Brad Roether is seeking election to the Geary County Commission

Blue Jay Way, near the front entrance to the Junction City High School, is now open for traffic.

Construction is nearing completion and the City Public Works confirms the entrance was opened up Tuesday night.

Until now the back entrance coming from the north on Blue Jay Way or the west side entrance off of Munson Road were used by motorists to access the high school.

Blue Jay Way, near the front entrance to the Junction City High School, is now open for traffic.Construction is nearing completion and the City Public Works confirms the entrance was opened up Tuesday night.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661395393670.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Until now the back entrance coming from the north on Blue Jay Way or the west side entrance off of Munson Road were used by motorists to access the high school.

Blue Jay Way is now open near the K-18 roundabout 

Impact study reveals counties in Flint Hills EDD lost estimated $291 million in earnings from job loss during pandemic

During 2020, 238 industry sectors within the seven counties comprising the Flint Hills Economic Development District in Kansas experienced job losses directly attributable to the pandemic, leading to an estimated $291 million in total earnings lost to the region.

The total estimated jobs lost among those industries and ancillary supply and services support industries was 6,577, almost 7% of all 2019 jobs. The estimate of total earnings lost is based on direct, indirect and induced job loss estimates. Ashley Peterson, senior consultant at Lightcast, presented the estimates to the Flint Hills Regional Council during the organization’s monthly meeting Aug. 19 at the KanEquip Arena in Alma. Using federal COVID relief funds, FHRC contracted last year with Lightcast, previously called EMSI Burning Glass, for a detailed picture of the pandemic’s impact on the 2020 economy in Chase, Geary, Lyon, Morris, Pottawatomie, Riley and Wabaunsee counties.

At the meeting, which was hosted by Wabaunsee County, Peterson said the study differentiated COVID impacted job loss from the natural flow of annual job changes in the seven counties. She said the substantial number presented is based solely on those industries sectors with job loss attributable to Covid.

The Lightcast report noted that in 2020 the region had 566 different industry sectors; just over 42 percent of the region’s sectors had Covid related job losses. Industries and sectors not directly impacted by the pandemic – those with annual changes consistent with historic trends – were stable or even had job growth, according to the study, and collectively, these industries helped lessen the total job and income losses from the impacted sectors.

Peterson said Geary, Morris and Wabaunsee counties experienced a net gain in jobs from 2019 to 2020, which is uncommon compared with similar studies Lightcast has conducted across the country.

“A positive showing in the pandemic year by three counties suggests a basic underlying job strength that may contribute to a quicker return to pre-pandemic employment levels in the Flint Hills than might happen in other parts of the country,” Jerry Lonergan, FHRC director, said.

Wamego City Commissioner and FHRC board president Richard Weixelman said much of the information was not surprising, such as substantial job losses in the restaurant, hotel and government services sectors. “The $281 million total represents money lost that could have provided significant positive gains and opportunities for the region,” he said.

Weixelman said the board agreed that the report displays the large impacts caused by national and global events well beyond the region’s control. He said the report and its recommendations can serve as a guide to be better prepared for economic disruptions, both negative and positive, going forward.

“The report shows the value to be gained by collaboration and cooperation within the Flint Hills,” Dee McKee, Pottawatomie County commissioner and FHRC vice-president, said. “The presentation alluded to the importance of business retention and creation, industry diversification and continued focus on creating a workforce ready for Flint Hills region jobs.”

The Flint Hills Regional Council is a non-profit membership organization with a mission to work collaboratively across the region to enhance the economic development and quality of life for the businesses, communities and citizens of the Kansas Flint Hills. Copies of the Lightcast report for the region overall and individual reports for each of the seven counties will be available at www.flinthillsregion.org by Aug. 26.

Those with questions should contact Jerry Lonergan, FHRC executive director, at 785-817-6510.

Impact study reveals counties in Flint Hills EDD lost estimated $291 million in earnings from job loss during pandemicDuring 2020, 238 industry sectors within the seven counties comprising the Flint Hills Economic Development District in Kansas experienced job losses directly attributable to the pandemic, leading to an estimated $291 million in total earnings lost to the region.The total estimated jobs lost among those industries and ancillary supply and services support industries was 6,577, almost 7% of all 2019 jobs. The estimate of total earnings lost is based on direct, indirect and induced job loss estimates. Ashley Peterson, senior consultant at Lightcast, presented the estimates to the Flint Hills Regional Council during the organization’s monthly meeting Aug. 19 at the KanEquip Arena in Alma. Using federal COVID relief funds, FHRC contracted last year with Lightcast, previously called EMSI Burning Glass, for a detailed picture of the pandemic’s impact on the 2020 economy in Chase, Geary, Lyon, Morris, Pottawatomie, Riley and Wabaunsee counties.At the meeting, which was hosted by Wabaunsee County, Peterson said the study differentiated COVID impacted job loss from the natural flow of annual job changes in the seven counties. She said the substantial number presented is based solely on those industries sectors with job loss attributable to Covid.The Lightcast report noted that in 2020 the region had 566 different industry sectors; just over 42 percent of the region’s sectors had Covid related job losses. Industries and sectors not directly impacted by the pandemic – those with annual changes consistent with historic trends – were stable or even had job growth, according to the study, and collectively, these industries helped lessen the total job and income losses from the impacted sectors.Peterson said Geary, Morris and Wabaunsee counties experienced a net gain in jobs from 2019 to 2020, which is uncommon compared with similar studies Lightcast has conducted across the country.“A positive showing in the pandemic year by three counties suggests a basic underlying job strength that may contribute to a quicker return to pre-pandemic employment levels in the Flint Hills than might happen in other parts of the country,” Jerry Lonergan, FHRC director, said.Wamego City Commissioner and FHRC board president Richard Weixelman said much of the information was not surprising, such as substantial job losses in the restaurant, hotel and government services sectors. “The $281 million total represents money lost that could have provided significant positive gains and opportunities for the region,” he said.Weixelman said the board agreed that the report displays the large impacts caused by national and global events well beyond the region’s control. He said the report and its recommendations can serve as a guide to be better prepared for economic disruptions, both negative and positive, going forward.“The report shows the value to be gained by collaboration and cooperation within the Flint Hills,” Dee McKee, Pottawatomie County commissioner and FHRC vice-president, said. “The presentation alluded to the importance of business retention and creation, industry diversification and continued focus on creating a workforce ready for Flint Hills region jobs.”The Flint Hills Regional Council is a non-profit membership organization with a mission to work collaboratively across the region to enhance the economic development and quality of life for the businesses, communities and citizens of the Kansas Flint Hills. Copies of the Lightcast report for the region overall and individual reports for each of the seven counties will be available at www.flinthillsregion.org by Aug. 26.Those with questions should contact Jerry Lonergan, FHRC executive director, at 785-817-6510.

Counties in Flint Hills EDD lost millions in earnings from job loss during pandemic

JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s guest speakers on Wednesday were Joe and Sheila Markley, Directors at the C.L. Hoover Opera House. They provided members with an update of events and expansion of programs.

Sheila Markley shared that the following shows are planned for the 2022-23 season. “Guys and Dolls will be presented by the Junction City Little Theater (JCLT) September 2-4 and 9-11; Circus On Ice will be September 16; Jeff Lefson (comedian) Sorry I’m Not Kevin Hart October 15; Little Satchmo October 8; A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol December 3-4 by the JCLT; Highlights of The Nutcracker ballet; First Infantry Division Band Holiday Concert on December 10; Reza (a magician) February 3; Arcadia by the JCLT on February 17-19 and 24-26; Joseph Hall as Elvis; The Adventures of Cipollino March 20 and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat by JCLT on April 28-30 an May 5-7.”

Joe Markley told the Optimist’s that “a Fine Arts Academy has been created to help develop the talent of youth in our area. Activity Imagination Music (A.I.M.) is for PreK-Kindergarten aged students; Act One for 3rd-5th grade students and A.S.T.R.A. for 6th through 8th grade students. Private lessons in the areas of vocal, acting, dance and guitar lessons for 30 minutes per lesson are being offered as a part of the education outreach. A team of two theater instructors will go into schools and lead fun and informative workshops for 60 minutes. These sessions will focus on exercises to help students learn about theater while growing and using their creative minds”, he said.

Markley went on to say that “to provide programs like those listed, the space at the Opera House must be expanded. The former Peter Pan Grocery Store, which was next to the Opera House, has been purchased and an architect has created a plan to give JCLT, these other programs and performers more space. $1.3 million has been raised towards the $2 million goal. The anticipated completion date is within 9 months of the beginning” of the remodel.

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club meets every Wednesday at the Hampton Inn located at 1029 S. Washington Street in Junction City. A free breakfast buffet is available for those who attend a meeting for the first time. Breakfast is served after 6:00 AM. The Optimist Club meeting begins at 6:50 AM.

By Dr. Ferrill MillerJC PostJC Breakfast Optimist Club’s guest speakers on Wednesday were Joe and Sheila Markley, Directors at the C.L. Hoover Opera House. They provided members with an update of events and expansion of programs.Sheila Markley shared that the following shows are planned for the 2022-23 season. “Guys and Dolls will be presented by the Junction City Little Theater (JCLT) September 2-4 and 9-11; Circus On Ice will be September 16; Jeff Lefson (comedian) Sorry I’m Not Kevin Hart October 15; Little Satchmo October 8; A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol December 3-4 by the JCLT; Highlights of The Nutcracker ballet; First Infantry Division Band Holiday Concert on December 10; Reza (a magician) February 3; Arcadia by the JCLT on February 17-19 and 24-26; Joseph Hall as Elvis; The Adventures of Cipollino March 20 and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat by JCLT on April 28-30 an May 5-7.”Joe Markley told the Optimist’s that “a Fine Arts Academy has been created to help develop the talent of youth in our area. Activity Imagination Music (A.I.M.) is for PreK-Kindergarten aged students; Act One for 3rd-5th grade students and A.S.T.R.A. for 6th through 8th grade students. Private lessons in the areas of vocal, acting, dance and guitar lessons for 30 minutes per lesson are being offered as a part of the education outreach. A team of two theater instructors will go into schools and lead fun and informative workshops for 60 minutes. These sessions will focus on exercises to help students learn about theater while growing and using their creative minds”, he said.Markley went on to say that “to provide programs like those listed, the space at the Opera House must be expanded. The former Peter Pan Grocery Store, which was next to the Opera House, has been purchased and an architect has created a plan to give JCLT, these other programs and performers more space. $1.3 million has been raised towards the $2 million goal. The anticipated completion date is within 9 months of the beginning” of the remodel.The JC Breakfast Optimist Club meets every Wednesday at the Hampton Inn located at 1029 S. Washington Street in Junction City. A free breakfast buffet is available for those who attend a meeting for the first time. Breakfast is served after 6:00 AM. The Optimist Club meeting begins at 6:50 AM.

JC Breakfast Optimist Club learns about upcoming shows at the C.L. Hoover Opera House

RILEY COUNTY—The three month search for a Manhattan woman wanted on a warrant for failure to appear and possession of opiate/opium/narcotic is in custody.

Just after 12:30p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 45-year-old&nbsp; Michelle Drywater, 45, of Manhattan in the 8200 block of South Port Drive in Manhattan on the Riley County District Court warrant, according to the Riley County Police Department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661351455022.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY—The three month search for a Manhattan woman wanted on a warrant for failure to appear and possession of opiate/opium/narcotic is in custody.Just after 12:30p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 45-year-old&nbsp; Michelle Drywater, 45, of Manhattan in the 8200 block of South Port Drive in Manhattan on the Riley County District Court warrant, according to the Riley County Police Department.She is being held without bond.

RCPD: After 3 months, wanted Manhattan woman captured

TOPEKA —Fatima Jaghoori, 32, of Milford, and Habibullah Jaghoori, 39, of Wichita were indicted Tuesday on one count of conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States, and one count each of false statement during the acquisition of a firearm, according to the United State's Attorney's office.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Skipper Jacobs is prosecuting the case.

TOPEKA —Fatima Jaghoori, 32, of Milford, and Habibullah Jaghoori, 39, of Wichita were indicted Tuesday on one count of conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States, and one count each of false statement during the acquisition of a firearm, according to the United State's Attorney's office.The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Skipper Jacobs is prosecuting the case.

Milford woman accused of conspiracy to commit offense against the U.S.

MANHATTAN —As millions of K-12 students head back to the classroom, a new report by Kansas State University&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/">College of Education</a>&nbsp;researchers shows the scope of the teaching vacancy problem across the country, providing what may be the first data set on teacher shortages by state. <a href="https://www.edworkingpapers.com/ai22-631">"Is There a National Teacher Shortage? A Systematic Examination of Reports of Teacher Shortages in the United States"</a>&nbsp;was published as a working paper by the Brown University's Annenberg Institute by K-State researchers Tuan Nguyen, assistant professor of curriculum and instruction, and Chanh Bao Lam, data analyst. Paul Bruno, assistant professor at the University of Illinois-Champaign, is the third author. Augmenting existing data from federal and state agencies with news reports and publicly available information, the team examined each state's teacher vacancies then grouped them into three categories for comparison. The team's report also includes a look at the number of underqualified individuals serving as teachers to fill vacancies. According to Nguyen classifying the teacher shortage is difficult because reporting varies from state to state or agency to agency. "Overall, there are at least 36,500 vacant positions along with 163,000 underqualified individuals filling teaching positions across the United States," Nguyen said. "These vacancies represent 1.67% of teaching positions nationwide, with about 5.16% of positions held by underqualified school district employees." The 11 states in Group 1 have the clearest vacancies. Florida leads the nation with nearly 4,000 unfilled teaching positions for the 2021-22 school year, followed by Illinois with 1,703 and Arizona with 1,699. The remaining states in this group are Utah, Missouri, Nebraska, Minnesota, Colorado, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Oklahoma. The 26 states plus Washington, D.C., in the second group have less clear vacancy information. In this category, Georgia ranks highest with 3,112 position vacancies for the 2019-20 school year — the last year data was available —followed by Mississippi and Alabama, each with more than 3,000 vacancies in 2021-22. Wisconsin is the only state with vacancies in the 2000s. The following states reported vacancies more than 1,000 vacancies: North Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, Kansas, New Mexico, West Virginia and Maryland. The remaining states in this group reported vacancies of under 1,000 from Indiana with 980 to Rhode Island with 93. The 13 remaining states have no vacancy information, but they have a substantial number of underqualified teachers, including up to 24,000 positions in California. The states in this category are listed in alphabetical order: Alaska, Arkansas, California, Iowa, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Vermont, Washington and Wyoming. "We need more accurate and timely data to make targeted policy decisions addressing these substantial teacher staffing challenges," Nguyen said. "Toward this end, our report contains several recommendations for district and state policymakers to consider when addressing local teacher shortages." Raw counts of reported teacher vacancy by state are available on the researchers' website,&nbsp;<a href="https://teachershortages.com/">teachershortages.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661269605940.png" alt="Kansas State University College of Education researchers Chanh Bao Lam, left, and Tuan Nguyen-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State University College of Education researchers Chanh Bao Lam, left, and Tuan Nguyen-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By Patrice ScottMANHATTAN —As millions of K-12 students head back to the classroom, a new report by Kansas State University&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/">College of Education</a>&nbsp;researchers shows the scope of the teaching vacancy problem across the country, providing what may be the first data set on teacher shortages by state. <a href="https://www.edworkingpapers.com/ai22-631">"Is There a National Teacher Shortage? A Systematic Examination of Reports of Teacher Shortages in the United States"</a>&nbsp;was published as a working paper by the Brown University's Annenberg Institute by K-State researchers Tuan Nguyen, assistant professor of curriculum and instruction, and Chanh Bao Lam, data analyst. Paul Bruno, assistant professor at the University of Illinois-Champaign, is the third author. Augmenting existing data from federal and state agencies with news reports and publicly available information, the team examined each state's teacher vacancies then grouped them into three categories for comparison. The team's report also includes a look at the number of underqualified individuals serving as teachers to fill vacancies. According to Nguyen classifying the teacher shortage is difficult because reporting varies from state to state or agency to agency. "Overall, there are at least 36,500 vacant positions along with 163,000 underqualified individuals filling teaching positions across the United States," Nguyen said. "These vacancies represent 1.67% of teaching positions nationwide, with about 5.16% of positions held by underqualified school district employees." The 11 states in Group 1 have the clearest vacancies. Florida leads the nation with nearly 4,000 unfilled teaching positions for the 2021-22 school year, followed by Illinois with 1,703 and Arizona with 1,699. The remaining states in this group are Utah, Missouri, Nebraska, Minnesota, Colorado, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Oklahoma. The 26 states plus Washington, D.C., in the second group have less clear vacancy information. In this category, Georgia ranks highest with 3,112 position vacancies for the 2019-20 school year — the last year data was available —followed by Mississippi and Alabama, each with more than 3,000 vacancies in 2021-22. Wisconsin is the only state with vacancies in the 2000s. The following states reported vacancies more than 1,000 vacancies: North Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, Kansas, New Mexico, West Virginia and Maryland. The remaining states in this group reported vacancies of under 1,000 from Indiana with 980 to Rhode Island with 93. The 13 remaining states have no vacancy information, but they have a substantial number of underqualified teachers, including up to 24,000 positions in California. The states in this category are listed in alphabetical order: Alaska, Arkansas, California, Iowa, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Vermont, Washington and Wyoming. "We need more accurate and timely data to make targeted policy decisions addressing these substantial teacher staffing challenges," Nguyen said. "Toward this end, our report contains several recommendations for district and state policymakers to consider when addressing local teacher shortages." Raw counts of reported teacher vacancy by state are available on the researchers' website,&nbsp;<a href="https://teachershortages.com/">teachershortages.com</a>.

Report by K-State researchers details teacher shortages by state

There are more students attending class on the Geary County campus of Cloud County Community College now than there have bene since before the COVID-19 pandemic began.&nbsp;

Jennifer Zaboktrsky, Campus Director, said it feels good to have the parking lot with more vehicles in it than during the past couple of years. The campus is moving closer to 200 students. The latest enrollment count late last week totaled around 175. "That's down still from where we were a number of years ago. That 175 is the students that are here on our campus. That doesn't include online ( students )." Many students take online classes. "One way that we have adapted is by serving those students who live within driving distance of Junction City, but maybe because of work or families they're taking online classes."

There is now a nursing program at the campus. Zaboktrsky said&nbsp; there are 18 students in their first year in the program that will graduate in May with an associate degree in nursing. " They will be prepared to take an exam to become a registered nurse. Eighteen more students will also be admitted into the program in January.&nbsp;

The school is also working on offering more sections of the certified nurses aid class. "So we're always looking for CNA instructors. They have to be a registered nurse with experience working in a long term care facility."

By Dewey Terrill&nbsp;JC PostThere are more students attending class on the Geary County campus of Cloud County Community College now than there have bene since before the COVID-19 pandemic began.&nbsp;Jennifer Zaboktrsky, Campus Director, said it feels good to have the parking lot with more vehicles in it than during the past couple of years. The campus is moving closer to 200 students. The latest enrollment count late last week totaled around 175. "That's down still from where we were a number of years ago. That 175 is the students that are here on our campus. That doesn't include online ( students )." Many students take online classes. "One way that we have adapted is by serving those students who live within driving distance of Junction City, but maybe because of work or families they're taking online classes."There is now a nursing program at the campus. Zaboktrsky said&nbsp; there are 18 students in their first year in the program that will graduate in May with an associate degree in nursing. " They will be prepared to take an exam to become a registered nurse. Eighteen more students will also be admitted into the program in January.&nbsp;The school is also working on offering more sections of the certified nurses aid class. "So we're always looking for CNA instructors. They have to be a registered nurse with experience working in a long term care facility."

Students return to the Cloud County Community College Geary County campus 

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —A Manhattan man was injured in an accident just after 2p.m. Tuesday in Wabaunsee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Jeep Liberty driven by&nbsp;Wang, Che Yu&nbsp;Wang, 31, Manhattan, was westbound on Interstate 70 just east of Wabaunsee Road.

The Jeep left the roadway to the left. The driver overcorrected and the vehicle struck the ditch, overturned in the median and caught fire.

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

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —A Manhattan man was injured in an accident just after 2p.m. Tuesday in Wabaunsee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Jeep Liberty driven by&nbsp;Wang, Che Yu&nbsp;Wang, 31, Manhattan, was westbound on Interstate 70 just east of Wabaunsee Road.The Jeep left the roadway to the left. The driver overcorrected and the vehicle struck the ditch, overturned in the median and caught fire.EMS transported Wang to Stormont Vail. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Manhattan man injured after jeep rollover crash, fire

After two-years, the Sunflower Fair is back. Seniors, caregivers, and anyone who plans to celebrate more happy birthdays are invited. It happens Tuesday, Sept. 20 at the Tony’s Pizza Events Center from 8 am to 4 pm in Salina.

Cost is $20 before September 10 and $25 after this date. Registrations are accepted at ncfhaaa.com or by calling 800-432-2703. Connect with the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency’s Facebook page for a chance to win two free tickets and other prizes.

Featured speakers include national award-winning journalist Larry Hatteberg of Hatteberg’s People and Malia Jones, a researcher and science communicator with the Center for Demography Health and Aging at the University of Wisconsin.

The Sunflower Fair features health screenings, exhibitors, entertainers, workshops, vaccines and boosters, practical information and a sit-down banquet lunch. Experts will speak on topics including fall prevention, advance directives and estate planning, Medicare, downsizing and other sessions featuring useful information.

The festivities also include recognition of honorees selected by counties and of the role Friendship Meals centers in the NC-FH AAA region played in addressing needs of older Kansans in the pandemic.

Entertainment includes prize drawings and toe-tapping music by “Bob and Friends” featuring Bob Delk of Marion County who celebrated his 100th birthday in early August.

“Our “Let the Sun Shine In!” theme celebrates how Kansans and their communities worked together in the last two years to help their neighbors and overcome big challenges that came with the pandemic,” said Julie Govert Walter, Executive Director of the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging. “It’s a day of friendship and fun—we invite folks to plan to meet up with friends and family from throughout the state for a good time,” she said.

The Agency is now accepting Silent Auction donations. Those who donate items by Monday, September 5 will be listed in the Sunflower Fair Program. Exhibit space is still available, but space is limited. To donate an item or be an exhibitor call 800-432-2703.

Bus transportation to the event is available along an I-70 route, however, space is limited. Those interested should call 800-432-2703 for details.

People can register and pay by credit card by calling the Agency at 1-800-432-2703. You can also register and pay through PayPal by visiting www.ncfhaaa.com/sunflowerfair2022

After two-years, the Sunflower Fair is back. Seniors, caregivers, and anyone who plans to celebrate more happy birthdays are invited. It happens Tuesday, Sept. 20 at the Tony’s Pizza Events Center from 8 am to 4 pm in Salina.Cost is $20 before September 10 and $25 after this date. Registrations are accepted at ncfhaaa.com or by calling 800-432-2703. Connect with the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency’s Facebook page for a chance to win two free tickets and other prizes.Featured speakers include national award-winning journalist Larry Hatteberg of Hatteberg’s People and Malia Jones, a researcher and science communicator with the Center for Demography Health and Aging at the University of Wisconsin.The Sunflower Fair features health screenings, exhibitors, entertainers, workshops, vaccines and boosters, practical information and a sit-down banquet lunch. Experts will speak on topics including fall prevention, advance directives and estate planning, Medicare, downsizing and other sessions featuring useful information.The festivities also include recognition of honorees selected by counties and of the role Friendship Meals centers in the NC-FH AAA region played in addressing needs of older Kansans in the pandemic.Entertainment includes prize drawings and toe-tapping music by “Bob and Friends” featuring Bob Delk of Marion County who celebrated his 100th birthday in early August.“Our “Let the Sun Shine In!” theme celebrates how Kansans and their communities worked together in the last two years to help their neighbors and overcome big challenges that came with the pandemic,” said Julie Govert Walter, Executive Director of the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging. “It’s a day of friendship and fun—we invite folks to plan to meet up with friends and family from throughout the state for a good time,” she said.The Agency is now accepting Silent Auction donations. Those who donate items by Monday, September 5 will be listed in the Sunflower Fair Program. Exhibit space is still available, but space is limited. To donate an item or be an exhibitor call 800-432-2703.Bus transportation to the event is available along an I-70 route, however, space is limited. Those interested should call 800-432-2703 for details.People can register and pay by credit card by calling the Agency at 1-800-432-2703. You can also register and pay through PayPal by visiting www.ncfhaaa.com/sunflowerfair2022

Let the Sun Shine In at Sunflower Fair Tuesday, Sept. 20 in Salina

Fort Riley has announced that will be a full-scale, emergency-preparedness exercise Thursday in the Camp Funston area.

During the day, residents, employees and community members should be aware that there may be an increase in emergency response vehicles and “Giant Voice” loudspeaker announcements.

Additionally, certain roads on the installation may be closed and traffic could be rerouted due to exercise activity. Drivers are asked to be patient and allow extra time when traveling on post.

The exercise is a way to test and train installation emergency preparedness. The annual exercise involves Fort Riley personnel and community partners and helps test, sync and evaluate emergency response processes and procedures.

Fort Riley has announced that will be a full-scale, emergency-preparedness exercise Thursday in the Camp Funston area.During the day, residents, employees and community members should be aware that there may be an increase in emergency response vehicles and “Giant Voice” loudspeaker announcements.Additionally, certain roads on the installation may be closed and traffic could be rerouted due to exercise activity. Drivers are asked to be patient and allow extra time when traveling on post.The exercise is a way to test and train installation emergency preparedness. The annual exercise involves Fort Riley personnel and community partners and helps test, sync and evaluate emergency response processes and procedures.

 Fort Riley to hold full-scale exercise Thursday

Geary County Extension Agent Chuck Otte reported this week that the recent hot and dry weather impacted the fall harvested crops, especially corn and soybeans. He noted that much of the corn is pretty well past the point where additional dry weather will seriously impact yield and corn harvest will likely be starting by Labor Day.&nbsp;

Soybeans are at critical stage and are starting to show stress and yield potential. They will soon go down is at least one inch of rain is not received in the next few days.

Geary County Extension Agent Chuck Otte reported this week that the recent hot and dry weather impacted the fall harvested crops, especially corn and soybeans. He noted that much of the corn is pretty well past the point where additional dry weather will seriously impact yield and corn harvest will likely be starting by Labor Day.&nbsp;Soybeans are at critical stage and are starting to show stress and yield potential. They will soon go down is at least one inch of rain is not received in the next few days.

Crops are hanging on in Geary County

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 9:30a.m. Tuesday in Wabaunsee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Kenworth semi driven by Thomas Bolds, 55, Olathe,&nbsp; was eastbound on Interstate 70 at Carlson Road.&nbsp; The vehicle's left front tire blew.

A 2020 Ford Explorer driven by Curtis Johnson, 62, Junction City, was eastbound behind the semi and possibly ran over the tire debris.

The SUV then left the roadway and traveled through the center median. Both vehicles came to a stop in the center median.

EMS transported Johnson and a passenger 59-year-old Margaret Johnson of Junction City to St. Francis Hospital. Bolds was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 9:30a.m. Tuesday in Wabaunsee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Kenworth semi driven by Thomas Bolds, 55, Olathe,&nbsp; was eastbound on Interstate 70 at Carlson Road.&nbsp; The vehicle's left front tire blew.A 2020 Ford Explorer driven by Curtis Johnson, 62, Junction City, was eastbound behind the semi and possibly ran over the tire debris.The SUV then left the roadway and traveled through the center median. Both vehicles came to a stop in the center median.EMS transported Johnson and a passenger 59-year-old Margaret Johnson of Junction City to St. Francis Hospital. Bolds was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Junction City couple hospitalized after SUV strikes I-70 road debris

Members of the Geary County Commission will move from one meeting to another on Thursday. The day begins with the Military Affairs Council breakfast at 7:30 a.m. followed by a session with U.S. Senator Roger Marshall at Geary Community Hospital at 9:30 a.m.

The commission will attend a welcome for Army Chief of Staff James McConville at Fort Riley at 3:45 p.m. and they will participate in an informational meeting about Geary Community Hospital at 6 p.m. at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.

Members of the Geary County Commission will move from one meeting to another on Thursday. The day begins with the Military Affairs Council breakfast at 7:30 a.m. followed by a session with U.S. Senator Roger Marshall at Geary Community Hospital at 9:30 a.m.The commission will attend a welcome for Army Chief of Staff James McConville at Fort Riley at 3:45 p.m. and they will participate in an informational meeting about Geary Community Hospital at 6 p.m. at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.

Geary County Commission schedules a full day on Thursday

There were 1,044 fair exhibits entered by 104 4-H members in the 2022 Geary County Free Fair. According to information provided by Geary County KSU Research and Extension each exhibit was evaluated to give feedback to&nbsp; the members on what they have done well and how they can improve.&nbsp;

Through the fair, youth increase knowledge about their projects, but can also learn how to win and lose gracefully, and develop leadership and communication skills.&nbsp;

Three judging contests were held during the fair.&nbsp; 55 4-H members participated in the Horticulture contest, 50 in the Photography contest and 46 in the Livestock contest. Judging contests are known to help youth develop skills in reasoning and decision making.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661264327137.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostThere were 1,044 fair exhibits entered by 104 4-H members in the 2022 Geary County Free Fair. According to information provided by Geary County KSU Research and Extension each exhibit was evaluated to give feedback to&nbsp; the members on what they have done well and how they can improve.&nbsp;Through the fair, youth increase knowledge about their projects, but can also learn how to win and lose gracefully, and develop leadership and communication skills.&nbsp;Three judging contests were held during the fair.&nbsp; 55 4-H members participated in the Horticulture contest, 50 in the Photography contest and 46 in the Livestock contest. Judging contests are known to help youth develop skills in reasoning and decision making.

Geary County Free Fair numbers are out

There is a plan for Geary Community Hospital to move under the auspices of Stormont Vail Health in a lease agreement Jan. 1. In the meantime efforts are under way via a revenue bond issue to raise operating funds for GCH this year and make repairs&nbsp; to the facility.

Thursday night county commissioners will host a town hall meeting at 6 p.m. at&nbsp; the C. L. Hoover Opera House to explain the hospital topic. Commissioner Trish Giordano said they will talk to the public about the status of the hospital. "How we came to the agreement with Stormont Vail and how we are paying for that."

One goal of the meeting is clarification. I think there's a lot of rumors floating around out there and we want to show that Stormont Vail was the best option for our community to take."

Commissioner Keith Ascher said it will be an informational meeting on what the county is working on with the transfer of GCH to Stormont Vail. "So we gave a power point presentation for the public to take in and see."

Ascher noted that many people have been asking questions. "What's going on? This is our way of finally, because this has been such a fluid process, I think we finally have come to where we've got things finalized pretty much."

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThere is a plan for Geary Community Hospital to move under the auspices of Stormont Vail Health in a lease agreement Jan. 1. In the meantime efforts are under way via a revenue bond issue to raise operating funds for GCH this year and make repairs&nbsp; to the facility.Thursday night county commissioners will host a town hall meeting at 6 p.m. at&nbsp; the C. L. Hoover Opera House to explain the hospital topic. Commissioner Trish Giordano said they will talk to the public about the status of the hospital. "How we came to the agreement with Stormont Vail and how we are paying for that."One goal of the meeting is clarification. I think there's a lot of rumors floating around out there and we want to show that Stormont Vail was the best option for our community to take."Commissioner Keith Ascher said it will be an informational meeting on what the county is working on with the transfer of GCH to Stormont Vail. "So we gave a power point presentation for the public to take in and see."Ascher noted that many people have been asking questions. "What's going on? This is our way of finally, because this has been such a fluid process, I think we finally have come to where we've got things finalized pretty much."

Local officials will explain the Geary Community Hospital agreement

Geary County Commissioners have adopted the 2023 County budget with a property tax levy reduction of 10.288 mills and spending reduction of $1,109,389.&nbsp;

Alex Tyson, Chair, said the County remained under the revenue neutral rate. "We understand the net valuations rose and the give has to be us looking at the mill levy and how we can affect that, and how we can help the taxpayer at the end of the day."

The Commission also approved the Proposed 2023 mill levy for Fire District #1 which totaled 4.934 mills. That is a 2.668 mill increase over the revenue neutral rate which equates to an increase of $165.041 in ad valorem tax from the 2022 budget. A resolution authorizing the revenue neutral rate to be exceeded was approved.&nbsp;

A check with the Rural Fire Director revealed the primary reason for the increase is that employees salaries will come out of the Fire District #1 budget in 2023 instead of the county general fund.

Geary County Commissioners have adopted the 2023 County budget with a property tax levy reduction of 10.288 mills and spending reduction of $1,109,389.&nbsp;Alex Tyson, Chair, said the County remained under the revenue neutral rate. "We understand the net valuations rose and the give has to be us looking at the mill levy and how we can affect that, and how we can help the taxpayer at the end of the day."The Commission also approved the Proposed 2023 mill levy for Fire District #1 which totaled 4.934 mills. That is a 2.668 mill increase over the revenue neutral rate which equates to an increase of $165.041 in ad valorem tax from the 2022 budget. A resolution authorizing the revenue neutral rate to be exceeded was approved.&nbsp;A check with the Rural Fire Director revealed the primary reason for the increase is that employees salaries will come out of the Fire District #1 budget in 2023 instead of the county general fund.

Geary County Commission adopts 2023 budgets

When it comes to fences and fence laws there are a number of things that property owners need to be aware of. Agricultural law specialist, Roger McEowen will present a program on Kansas fence law at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 23rd. Topics to be addressed include basics of the Kansas fence law statutes; partition fences; locating, building and maintaining legal fences; handling fence disputes; highway forces; adverse possession and other regularly encountered fence law questions.&nbsp;

There is no charge for the program but registrations are encouraged by contacting the Geary County Extension Office at 785-238-4161 or emailing Geary County Extension Agent, Chuck Otte,&nbsp;<a href="http://cotte@ksu.edu/">cotte@ksu.edu</a>.

When it comes to fences and fence laws there are a number of things that property owners need to be aware of. Agricultural law specialist, Roger McEowen will present a program on Kansas fence law at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 23rd. Topics to be addressed include basics of the Kansas fence law statutes; partition fences; locating, building and maintaining legal fences; handling fence disputes; highway forces; adverse possession and other regularly encountered fence law questions.&nbsp;There is no charge for the program but registrations are encouraged by contacting the Geary County Extension Office at 785-238-4161 or emailing Geary County Extension Agent, Chuck Otte,&nbsp;<a href="http://cotte@ksu.edu/">cotte@ksu.edu</a>.

Kansas Fence Law Seminar will be held at the Geary County 4-H Center Tuesday

CASA of the 8th&nbsp;Judicial District will host a Walk for a Child to raise awareness and support Dickinson, Geary, Marion, and Morris Counties’ vulnerable youth

Our Walk for A Child event will take place from September 1 – 30.&nbsp; To kick off this event they are hosting a morning walk on September 1st&nbsp;&nbsp;at 9:00 a.m.&nbsp; The walk will take place at South Park in Junction City.&nbsp; &nbsp;The intent is to raise awareness about child abuse and raise funds to help local abused children

The rest of the event is virtual where all participants are asked to walk 100 miles during the four weeks of the event. This is only 7,000 steps each day. The CASA Walk for a Child is a virtual journey where you as well as other athletes, friends, family, and community members can connect and compete in distance traveled and funds raised over the month of September. 

By participating in the Walk for A Child event you will help raise awareness about Child Abuse in the local community.&nbsp; Registration opens and the event begins on 1 Sep.&nbsp; People can register as an individual or as a team.&nbsp; There will be random prizes given out as well as a prize for the top team and the individual race winner. Fitness trackers can be used to count your steps or activities (i.e., CrossFit workouts, exercise classes, weightlifting, etc.).&nbsp; In addition, you can simply submit their workouts manually. 

The fundraising goal is $3000 for the event. For more information contact 785-762-3907.&nbsp; To register on September 1st&nbsp;go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.charityfootprints.com/walkforachild" target="_blank">www.charityfootprints.com/walkforachild</a>.

CASA of the 8th&nbsp;Judicial District will host a Walk for a Child to raise awareness and support Dickinson, Geary, Marion, and Morris Counties’ vulnerable youthOur Walk for A Child event will take place from September 1 – 30.&nbsp; To kick off this event they are hosting a morning walk on September 1st&nbsp;&nbsp;at 9:00 a.m.&nbsp; The walk will take place at South Park in Junction City.&nbsp; &nbsp;The intent is to raise awareness about child abuse and raise funds to help local abused childrenThe rest of the event is virtual where all participants are asked to walk 100 miles during the four weeks of the event. This is only 7,000 steps each day. The CASA Walk for a Child is a virtual journey where you as well as other athletes, friends, family, and community members can connect and compete in distance traveled and funds raised over the month of September. By participating in the Walk for A Child event you will help raise awareness about Child Abuse in the local community.&nbsp; Registration opens and the event begins on 1 Sep.&nbsp; People can register as an individual or as a team.&nbsp; There will be random prizes given out as well as a prize for the top team and the individual race winner. Fitness trackers can be used to count your steps or activities (i.e., CrossFit workouts, exercise classes, weightlifting, etc.).&nbsp; In addition, you can simply submit their workouts manually. The fundraising goal is $3000 for the event. For more information contact 785-762-3907.&nbsp; To register on September 1st&nbsp;go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.charityfootprints.com/walkforachild" target="_blank">www.charityfootprints.com/walkforachild</a>.

CASA works to support youth

Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancher I give a lot of my time to help young leaders grow and develop through programs like 4-H and FFA. Though my biggest motivation is paying it forward because of all the people who helped me, I also directly benefit from working with these students who are experts on pop culture, new fashion, slang terminology and the latest social media trends. Now that I am solidly a mid-career professional, I sometimes forget how easy it is to lose touch with the changing world. My students are always ready to explain what “Hot Girl Summer” means, why people love the Kardashians and so many other things that might have completely passed over my head otherwise. Earlier this summer, my intern introduced me to one of the hot new social media sites Be Real. This platform prompts users at a random time daily to take and share a quick snapshot of life. Users have 2 minutes to take a snap that includes both front and back facing views. This quick, random time frame doesn’t allow people much time to make themselves or their life look better than reality. It is meant to showcase the mundane, messy and unfiltered reality of your life. After posting your shot you can see what your friends are up to and interact with comments and emoji’s like other social media platforms. If a user fails to snap a picture they miss out on seeing their friends’ posts for the day. At first I thought the idea was super strange, but with time it grew on me. Social media is often criticized for fake and overly glamorous view of many people’s lives, which can lead many users to negative impacts on the mental health of users. Be Real makes it harder to fake a picture-perfect life, showing more realistic and normal views of how we live. It struck me that Be Real is the perfect platform for farmers. There are so many people who have no idea what a farmer does on any given day. Even when someone tours a farm or follows their social media they get a very narrow view that is often the shiny filtered version. If farmers were using Be Real, I am confident that you would occasionally catch a beautiful sunset while checking an irrigator, or a new born baby calf nursing for the first time and some of the other exciting moments in farming. However, more of the snaps would be of the mundane things famers do every day like crawling over or under something to fix a machine, chasing animals that got out of the fence, doing office work, driving back and forth for hours in the same field, running to town to get parts, fueling equipment, fixing fences, checking rain gages or dry fields, looking for bugs, equipment maintenance, putting out a grass fire and a hundred other tasks that happen every day. Plus the farmer would definitely be covered in sweat, oil, dirt or manure in 95 percent of the pictures. If you paid close attention, you would also be able to feel the roller coaster of emotions that exist during a season. The hope of planting, fear caused by weeks of&nbsp; high temperatures and drought, the pain of lost animals and crops, the relief of rain and the pride of completing harvest. Unfortunately, I don’t think many farmers will catch on to this social media trend because they probably wouldn’t hear the notification or be in a place where they had time to get their phone out and take a picture. You will have to take my word for it: farming is as real as it gets.

Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancher I give a lot of my time to help young leaders grow and develop through programs like 4-H and FFA. Though my biggest motivation is paying it forward because of all the people who helped me, I also directly benefit from working with these students who are experts on pop culture, new fashion, slang terminology and the latest social media trends. Now that I am solidly a mid-career professional, I sometimes forget how easy it is to lose touch with the changing world. My students are always ready to explain what “Hot Girl Summer” means, why people love the Kardashians and so many other things that might have completely passed over my head otherwise. Earlier this summer, my intern introduced me to one of the hot new social media sites Be Real. This platform prompts users at a random time daily to take and share a quick snapshot of life. Users have 2 minutes to take a snap that includes both front and back facing views. This quick, random time frame doesn’t allow people much time to make themselves or their life look better than reality. It is meant to showcase the mundane, messy and unfiltered reality of your life. After posting your shot you can see what your friends are up to and interact with comments and emoji’s like other social media platforms. If a user fails to snap a picture they miss out on seeing their friends’ posts for the day. At first I thought the idea was super strange, but with time it grew on me. Social media is often criticized for fake and overly glamorous view of many people’s lives, which can lead many users to negative impacts on the mental health of users. Be Real makes it harder to fake a picture-perfect life, showing more realistic and normal views of how we live. It struck me that Be Real is the perfect platform for farmers. There are so many people who have no idea what a farmer does on any given day. Even when someone tours a farm or follows their social media they get a very narrow view that is often the shiny filtered version. If farmers were using Be Real, I am confident that you would occasionally catch a beautiful sunset while checking an irrigator, or a new born baby calf nursing for the first time and some of the other exciting moments in farming. However, more of the snaps would be of the mundane things famers do every day like crawling over or under something to fix a machine, chasing animals that got out of the fence, doing office work, driving back and forth for hours in the same field, running to town to get parts, fueling equipment, fixing fences, checking rain gages or dry fields, looking for bugs, equipment maintenance, putting out a grass fire and a hundred other tasks that happen every day. Plus the farmer would definitely be covered in sweat, oil, dirt or manure in 95 percent of the pictures. If you paid close attention, you would also be able to feel the roller coaster of emotions that exist during a season. The hope of planting, fear caused by weeks of&nbsp; high temperatures and drought, the pain of lost animals and crops, the relief of rain and the pride of completing harvest. Unfortunately, I don’t think many farmers will catch on to this social media trend because they probably wouldn’t hear the notification or be in a place where they had time to get their phone out and take a picture. You will have to take my word for it: farming is as real as it gets.