Geary County Emergency Management has released the National Weather Service radar estimated rainfall amounts as of 5 AM Thursday. The forecast for additional rain calls for another 1.0 to 1.5 inches in some areas. Isolated, or localized, flooding will be possible with the additional rainfall later today.

Geary County Emergency Management has released the National Weather Service radar estimated rainfall amounts as of 5 AM Thursday. The forecast for additional rain calls for another 1.0 to 1.5 inches in some areas. Isolated, or localized, flooding will be possible with the additional rainfall later today.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651756886182.jpeg" alt="" />
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Geary and Riley counties are in the target area for rain

Board of Education members have approved a revised policy allowing authorized security personnel at Junction City High School to use body cameras.&nbsp; &nbsp;Police school resource officers already wear them and there are enough cameras for use by other security staff members.

 Staff informed the Board that they can be turned on and off. For example they can be turned on when a situation is escalating, and there may be a need for a video recording as an event is unfolding.

Board of Education members have approved a revised policy allowing authorized security personnel at Junction City High School to use body cameras.&nbsp; &nbsp;Police school resource officers already wear them and there are enough cameras for use by other security staff members. Staff informed the Board that they can be turned on and off. For example they can be turned on when a situation is escalating, and there may be a need for a video recording as an event is unfolding.

School board approves use of body cameras

One dozen scholarships were awarded to USD 475 educators at this week's Celebration of Teaching banquet.

Wanda McRae Memorial Teacher Scholarships:

Geary Community Schools Foundation Teacher Scholarship

--Takara Brownridge, Paige Gasper, Kelsey Gerdes, Kylie Honeycutt, Mary McConnell, James Webb Jr., Dominique Wiedmaier

Geary Community Schools Foundation Paraeducator Scholarship

One dozen scholarships were awarded to USD 475 educators at this week's Celebration of Teaching banquet.They included:Wanda McRae Memorial Teacher Scholarships:--Heather Boland, Erica TestaDevin Family Scholarship for Teachers--Kindra AndersonRon Shandy Memorial Teacher Scholarship--Kylie HoneycuttGeary Community Schools Foundation Teacher Scholarship--Takara Brownridge, Paige Gasper, Kelsey Gerdes, Kylie Honeycutt, Mary McConnell, James Webb Jr., Dominique WiedmaierGeary Community Schools Foundation Paraeducator Scholarship--Jessica Dee

Geary Community Schools Foundation awards scholarships

Four outstanding Geary County 4-H members have been selected to receive scholarships through the Geary County 4-H program.&nbsp; Extension Agent Ginger Kopfer said that the recipients were selected based on involvement in the 4-H program and outstanding leadership and citizenship shown to 4-H, school, and the community.

--Chelsey Armbruster, Lyon Creek 4-H Club, daughter of Marjaul Ferris

$1,000 Ray and Nellie Smith 4-H Scholarship

--Kacey Butler, Lyon Creek 4-H Club, daughter of David and Karla Butler

$1,000 Flint Hills Preservation Coalition Scholarship

$2,000 Ralph E. Dietrich College Scholarship

--Jada Nabus, Humboldt 4-H Club, daughter of Randy and Lisa Nabus

--Jewels Williams, Lyon Creek 4-H Club, daughter of Marti Williams

$1,000 Paul B. and Clara B. Gwin 4-H Scholarship

Four outstanding Geary County 4-H members have been selected to receive scholarships through the Geary County 4-H program.&nbsp; Extension Agent Ginger Kopfer said that the recipients were selected based on involvement in the 4-H program and outstanding leadership and citizenship shown to 4-H, school, and the community.--Chelsey Armbruster, Lyon Creek 4-H Club, daughter of Marjaul Ferris$1,000 Ray and Nellie Smith 4-H Scholarship--Kacey Butler, Lyon Creek 4-H Club, daughter of David and Karla Butler$1,000 Flint Hills Preservation Coalition Scholarship$2,000 Ralph E. Dietrich College Scholarship--Jada Nabus, Humboldt 4-H Club, daughter of Randy and Lisa Nabus$1,000 Ray and Nellie Smith 4-H Scholarship--Jewels Williams, Lyon Creek 4-H Club, daughter of Marti Williams$1,000 Paul B. and Clara B. Gwin 4-H Scholarship

4-H scholarship recipients are in the spotlight

DRAWSKO POMORSKIE TRAINING AREA, Poland – Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 34th Armored Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division hosted the first Abrams Operations Summit with soldiers from Polish Land Forces, April 26 – 28.

The 1st Infantry Division Public Affairs Office said the summit introduced Polish Land Forces leaders to U.S. Army systems and procedures that support successful Abrams tank operations at the company and battalion level. Participating Polish soldiers learned Abrams capabilities, tactics, sustainment operations and master gunner operations.

“We developed the Abrams Operations Summit in conjunction with the Polish Land Forces to be the first step in a series of events we’re going to do to introduce the Abrams tank platform to the Polish forces,” said U.S. Army Col. Geoffrey Norman, deputy commanding officer for support of the 1st Infantry Division and director of the summit. “The purpose of the summit was to introduce the Polish Land Forces to how the U.S. Army operates with the Abrams tank.”

“We’re thankful for the cooperation during the operations summit because this event helps us understand what the needs of this equipment are and how to implement that in our structures,” said Polish Land Forces 1st Lt. Kamil Gromadzinski, a company commander with the 1st Warsaw Brigade.

“The Abrams Summit represents an important step in familiarizing and subsequently integrating the Abrams tank into the Polish army,” said U.S. Army Lt. Gen. John S. Kolasheski, commanding general of V Corps. “This is a big deal. Fielding this combat vehicle will not only increase their lethality, it will improve our collective interoperability and combat capability while further enhancing the partnership we have with Polish Land Forces.”

This summer, Polish crews will begin formal training on the M1A2SEPV2 Abrams tank and the M88A2 HERCULES recovery vehicle to become certified on the incoming tanks, enhancing interoperability and deepening the U.S. commitment to its NATO ally. While this training takes place, some Polish soldiers will continue to embed with U.S. Army units through the Abrams Apprentice Program where they will continue to learn master gunner and maintenance operations.

The Polish army purchased 250 M1A2SEPV3 Abrams tanks, along with the necessary maintenance equipment and training, to modernize their tank fleet. The sale, approved by U.S. Congress in February, will see the first delivery of tanks in late 2024, with a number of M1A2SEPV2 tanks being provided early to be used for training.

The 1st Infantry Division is among other units assigned to V Corps, America’s forward deployed corps in Europe that works alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces; execute joint, bilateral, and multinational training exercises; and provides command and control for rotational and assigned units in the European theater.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651704910194.jpeg" alt="Polish and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 34th Armored Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division pose for a photo on two M1A2 Abrams tanks after the Abrams Operation Summit at Bucierz Range, Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, April 28, 2022. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Tara Fajardo Arteaga)" />
 <figcaption>Polish and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 34th Armored Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division pose for a photo on two M1A2 Abrams tanks after the Abrams Operation Summit at Bucierz Range, Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, April 28, 2022. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Tara Fajardo Arteaga)</figcaption>
 </figure>DRAWSKO POMORSKIE TRAINING AREA, Poland – Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 34th Armored Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division hosted the first Abrams Operations Summit with soldiers from Polish Land Forces, April 26 – 28.The 1st Infantry Division Public Affairs Office said the summit introduced Polish Land Forces leaders to U.S. Army systems and procedures that support successful Abrams tank operations at the company and battalion level. Participating Polish soldiers learned Abrams capabilities, tactics, sustainment operations and master gunner operations.“We developed the Abrams Operations Summit in conjunction with the Polish Land Forces to be the first step in a series of events we’re going to do to introduce the Abrams tank platform to the Polish forces,” said U.S. Army Col. Geoffrey Norman, deputy commanding officer for support of the 1st Infantry Division and director of the summit. “The purpose of the summit was to introduce the Polish Land Forces to how the U.S. Army operates with the Abrams tank.”“We’re thankful for the cooperation during the operations summit because this event helps us understand what the needs of this equipment are and how to implement that in our structures,” said Polish Land Forces 1st Lt. Kamil Gromadzinski, a company commander with the 1st Warsaw Brigade.“The Abrams Summit represents an important step in familiarizing and subsequently integrating the Abrams tank into the Polish army,” said U.S. Army Lt. Gen. John S. Kolasheski, commanding general of V Corps. “This is a big deal. Fielding this combat vehicle will not only increase their lethality, it will improve our collective interoperability and combat capability while further enhancing the partnership we have with Polish Land Forces.”This summer, Polish crews will begin formal training on the M1A2SEPV2 Abrams tank and the M88A2 HERCULES recovery vehicle to become certified on the incoming tanks, enhancing interoperability and deepening the U.S. commitment to its NATO ally. While this training takes place, some Polish soldiers will continue to embed with U.S. Army units through the Abrams Apprentice Program where they will continue to learn master gunner and maintenance operations.The Polish army purchased 250 M1A2SEPV3 Abrams tanks, along with the necessary maintenance equipment and training, to modernize their tank fleet. The sale, approved by U.S. Congress in February, will see the first delivery of tanks in late 2024, with a number of M1A2SEPV2 tanks being provided early to be used for training.The 1st Infantry Division is among other units assigned to V Corps, America’s forward deployed corps in Europe that works alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces; execute joint, bilateral, and multinational training exercises; and provides command and control for rotational and assigned units in the European theater.

U.S. Soldiers, Polish Allies participate in Abrams Operations Summit

The water main break is in the 6700 block of Old Milford Road is taking longer than expected. Water will continue to be out this afternoon.

Geary County Rural Water District Four has a main line break in the 6700 block of Old Milford Road. Water will be shut down effecting customers along Old Milford Road mainly from the golf course to Northwood Drive. Service will be turned back on as soon as possible.

UPDATE:Water service has been restored.&nbsp;---The water main break is in the 6700 block of Old Milford Road is taking longer than expected. Water will continue to be out this afternoon.--Geary County Rural Water District Four has a main line break in the 6700 block of Old Milford Road. Water will be shut down effecting customers along Old Milford Road mainly from the golf course to Northwood Drive. Service will be turned back on as soon as possible.

Water main break fixed in Rural Water District Four

There has been discussion about the possibility of a new logo for the Geary County CVB and an ad hoc committee has been formed to work on the matter, said CVB Director Donna Price. "We're going to look at different avenues so that we can get the best logo that works for us and maybe the county and anybody else that wants to jump on board."

CVB officials this week also discussed plans for a Float Your Boat event at Milford Lake in August, and the plan for putting a new Convention and Visitors Bureau sign on the front of the Montgomery Building at 222 West 6th Street. That sign would be placed near the west end of the building front.

There has been discussion about the possibility of a new logo for the Geary County CVB and an ad hoc committee has been formed to work on the matter, said CVB Director Donna Price. "We're going to look at different avenues so that we can get the best logo that works for us and maybe the county and anybody else that wants to jump on board."CVB officials this week also discussed plans for a Float Your Boat event at Milford Lake in August, and the plan for putting a new Convention and Visitors Bureau sign on the front of the Montgomery Building at 222 West 6th Street. That sign would be placed near the west end of the building front.g&nbsp;

Geary County CVB talks about a possible new logo

Geary USD 475 Board of Education members received information&nbsp; this week from district staff on the increase in student discipline issues this school year. Student behavior challenges at the secondary level schools in Junction City are leading District leaders to look at creation of a grades 6-12 alternative program at the HD Karns Building.&nbsp;

To support that effort the Board approved the hiring of an assistant principal and four core teachers.

Thomas Wesoloski, current Interim Director of Student Support Service, explained to the Board that many students get sent to&nbsp; the Karns Building that have had major offenses at City Middle School or Junction City High School. "Our goal is to increase the numbers of&nbsp; the high school alternative program up to about 100 or 120. "The same way with the middle school kids. We're looking at probably between 50 and 70 students that have caused the majority of&nbsp; the issues at Junction City Middle School." Wesoloski added that will allow officials to help those students change their ways,&nbsp; be taught with a new SEL curriculum and get back in the Middle School at a time when officials believe the students have figured out to behave and have learned strategies to maintain themselves.

During an explanation on the need for the additional staff, Wesoloski said "it gets very dangerous in the Karns Building,"and referring to the students needing the alternative program noted, "The caliber of students that are there are not like anything I've ever seen before. There is no respect for anyone from these children, and so we need to do what's in the best interest of these students and in the best interest of this District. Because I don't want to see a lawsuit coming in because somebody got hurt because we just didn't have enough staff there." Wesoloski explains officials need to gain control over the students in order to get them to graduate.

Geary USD 475 Board of Education members received information&nbsp; this week from district staff on the increase in student discipline issues this school year. Student behavior challenges at the secondary level schools in Junction City are leading District leaders to look at creation of a grades 6-12 alternative program at the HD Karns Building.&nbsp;To support that effort the Board approved the hiring of an assistant principal and four core teachers.Thomas Wesoloski, current Interim Director of Student Support Service, explained to the Board that many students get sent to&nbsp; the Karns Building that have had major offenses at City Middle School or Junction City High School. "Our goal is to increase the numbers of&nbsp; the high school alternative program up to about 100 or 120. "The same way with the middle school kids. We're looking at probably between 50 and 70 students that have caused the majority of&nbsp; the issues at Junction City Middle School." Wesoloski added that will allow officials to help those students change their ways,&nbsp; be taught with a new SEL curriculum and get back in the Middle School at a time when officials believe the students have figured out to behave and have learned strategies to maintain themselves.During an explanation on the need for the additional staff, Wesoloski said "it gets very dangerous in the Karns Building,"and referring to the students needing the alternative program noted, "The caliber of students that are there are not like anything I've ever seen before. There is no respect for anyone from these children, and so we need to do what's in the best interest of these students and in the best interest of this District. Because I don't want to see a lawsuit coming in because somebody got hurt because we just didn't have enough staff there." Wesoloski explains officials need to gain control over the students in order to get them to graduate.

Student discipline issues receive attention in USD 475 

City of Junction City Employee Engagement Committee, has congratulated the May Employment Anniversary Recipients.

Tony Cecena-05/22/2013-9 Years of Service

Kimberly Hurley-05/30/2006-16 Years of Service

Travis Berges-05/28/2009-13 Years of Service

Randal Nabus-05/02/1996-26 Years of Service

Nicholas Nutter-05/24/2006-16 Years of Service

John Pender-05/05/1997-25 Years of Service

Bernard Schroeder-05/05/1997-25 Years of Service

John Shepek-05/05/2004-18 Years of Service

Shadd Synder-05/05/1997-25 Years of Service

Randolph Hanlon-05/01/2013-9 Years of Service

Nicholas Blake-05/10/2004-&nbsp;18 Years of Service

Dustin Murphy-05/19/2008-14 Years of Service

Joel Sunnenberg-05/23/2016-6 Years of Service

Ethan Berumen-05/03/2021-1 Year of Service

Nikki Bozarth-05/03/2021-1 Year of Service

Ray Ibarra-05/29/2012-10 Years of Service

City of Junction City Employee Engagement Committee, has congratulated the May Employment Anniversary Recipients.Building Maintenance:Tony Cecena-05/22/2013-9 Years of ServiceCustomer Service:Kimberly Hurley-05/30/2006-16 Years of ServiceFire Department:Travis Berges-05/28/2009-13 Years of ServiceSean Carr-05/29/2012-10 Years of ServiceRandal Nabus-05/02/1996-26 Years of ServiceNicholas Nutter-05/24/2006-16 Years of ServiceJohn Pender-05/05/1997-25 Years of ServiceBernard Schroeder-05/05/1997-25 Years of ServiceJohn Shepek-05/05/2004-18 Years of ServiceShadd Synder-05/05/1997-25 Years of ServiceGolf Course:Rene Mack-05/03/2021-1 Year of ServiceParks Department:Randolph Hanlon-05/01/2013-9 Years of ServicePolice Department:Nicholas Blake-05/10/2004-&nbsp;18 Years of ServiceRon Keys-05/19/2014-8 years of ServiceDustin Murphy-05/19/2008-14 Years of ServiceJoel Sunnenberg-05/23/2016-6 Years of ServicePublic Works:Ethan Berumen-05/03/2021-1 Year of ServiceNikki Bozarth-05/03/2021-1 Year of ServiceRay Ibarra-05/29/2012-10 Years of Service

Employees are recognized for years of service

USD 475 conducted a grand opening for the new playground at Sheridan Elementary School on Tuesday.&nbsp;

USD 475 conducted a grand opening for the new playground at Sheridan Elementary School on Tuesday.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651673784632.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Joshua Ferguson, Digital Media Specialist, USD 475." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Joshua Ferguson, Digital Media Specialist, USD 475.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Sheridan Elementary gets new playground

Students involved with the&nbsp;<a href="http://salina.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus</a>&nbsp;Flight Team are preparing to compete in a national collegiate aviation competition. After finishing among the top three schools at the Region VI competition in October 2021, the K-State Salina Flight Team qualified for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association Safety and Flight Evaluation Conference, also known as NIFA SAFECON. This year's competition will be May 9-14 in Columbus, Ohio, and hosted by Ohio State University. Twenty-seven schools from nine different regions around the country also qualified for the competition. "This experience is multifaceted for our pilot students," said Sebastien Joubert, K-State Salina interim chief flight instructor and the flight team's advisor. "They get to compete in their chosen profession and hone in on the skills that will make them successful in their careers. The other cool aspect of this competition is the comradery between the competing schools, where they get to interact and network with fellow pilot students, faculty and alumni from across the country. It's nice for K-State Salina students to explore beyond the bubble of their home campus." The events at NIFA SAFECON 2022 will include flight and ground events that allow competitors to showcase different strengths in navigating their aircraft. The flight events will include competitions for accuracy in landings and navigation, while the ground events entail flight planning, aircraft recognition, flight computer skills and more. K-State Salina has been successful at regional and national flying competitions. The flight team has qualified for nationals seven times in the last 10 years and won the event's Safety Award at the 2021 Region VI competition. In 2014, the university was awarded the prestigious&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.com/Archive/@K-State/July2014/K-State%20Salina%20Flight%20Team%20wins%20Loening%20Trophy%20at%20nationals.htm" target="_blank">Loening Trophy</a>, presented to the outstanding all-around collegiate aviation program in the nation. This will be the first in-person national competition since 2019 and the K-State Salina team members are eager to put their skills to the test, as well as provide the younger pilots on the team with experience in flight competition. "We are able to go perform at and experience a national competition because of the hard work of everyone on this team," said Miles Denning, junior in professional pilot and team captain,&nbsp;Salina. "We really wanted to perform well in the regional competition last fall, so we decided as a team to commit two nights a week in preparation for the event. The effort of the team paid off with us winning the event's Safety Award and earning a spot in the national competition." Eleven team members, all majoring in professional pilot, will compete for K-State Salina at nationals: Daniel Kerns, senior, and Adam Wrecke, sophomore, both from&nbsp;Olathe; Josh Murdock, sophomore,&nbsp;Overland Park; Miles Denning, junior,&nbsp;Salina; and Johannes Seberger, senior,&nbsp;Shawnee. From out of state: Derek McGuire, junior,&nbsp;Bentonville, Arkansas; Braeden Post, senior,&nbsp;Newport Beach, California; Josh Gabriel, senior,&nbsp;Kansas City, Missouri;&nbsp;Zach Wood, freshman,&nbsp;Lee's Summit, Missouri; and Aidan Rickelman, sophomore,&nbsp;Southlake, Texas. From out of country: Toshiki Nango, sophomore,&nbsp;Kyoto, Japan.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651667809622.jpeg" alt="For the seventh time in the last 10 years, the K-State Salina Flight Team has qualified for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association Safety and Flight Evaluation competition.&nbsp;Photo courtesy K-State Salina" />
 <figcaption>For the seventh time in the last 10 years, the K-State Salina Flight Team has qualified for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association Safety and Flight Evaluation competition.&nbsp;Photo courtesy K-State Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State SalinaStudents involved with the&nbsp;<a href="http://salina.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus</a>&nbsp;Flight Team are preparing to compete in a national collegiate aviation competition. After finishing among the top three schools at the Region VI competition in October 2021, the K-State Salina Flight Team qualified for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association Safety and Flight Evaluation Conference, also known as NIFA SAFECON. This year's competition will be May 9-14 in Columbus, Ohio, and hosted by Ohio State University. Twenty-seven schools from nine different regions around the country also qualified for the competition. "This experience is multifaceted for our pilot students," said Sebastien Joubert, K-State Salina interim chief flight instructor and the flight team's advisor. "They get to compete in their chosen profession and hone in on the skills that will make them successful in their careers. The other cool aspect of this competition is the comradery between the competing schools, where they get to interact and network with fellow pilot students, faculty and alumni from across the country. It's nice for K-State Salina students to explore beyond the bubble of their home campus." The events at NIFA SAFECON 2022 will include flight and ground events that allow competitors to showcase different strengths in navigating their aircraft. The flight events will include competitions for accuracy in landings and navigation, while the ground events entail flight planning, aircraft recognition, flight computer skills and more. K-State Salina has been successful at regional and national flying competitions. The flight team has qualified for nationals seven times in the last 10 years and won the event's Safety Award at the 2021 Region VI competition. In 2014, the university was awarded the prestigious&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.com/Archive/@K-State/July2014/K-State%20Salina%20Flight%20Team%20wins%20Loening%20Trophy%20at%20nationals.htm" target="_blank">Loening Trophy</a>, presented to the outstanding all-around collegiate aviation program in the nation. This will be the first in-person national competition since 2019 and the K-State Salina team members are eager to put their skills to the test, as well as provide the younger pilots on the team with experience in flight competition. "We are able to go perform at and experience a national competition because of the hard work of everyone on this team," said Miles Denning, junior in professional pilot and team captain,&nbsp;Salina. "We really wanted to perform well in the regional competition last fall, so we decided as a team to commit two nights a week in preparation for the event. The effort of the team paid off with us winning the event's Safety Award and earning a spot in the national competition." Eleven team members, all majoring in professional pilot, will compete for K-State Salina at nationals: Daniel Kerns, senior, and Adam Wrecke, sophomore, both from&nbsp;Olathe; Josh Murdock, sophomore,&nbsp;Overland Park; Miles Denning, junior,&nbsp;Salina; and Johannes Seberger, senior,&nbsp;Shawnee. From out of state: Derek McGuire, junior,&nbsp;Bentonville, Arkansas; Braeden Post, senior,&nbsp;Newport Beach, California; Josh Gabriel, senior,&nbsp;Kansas City, Missouri;&nbsp;Zach Wood, freshman,&nbsp;Lee's Summit, Missouri; and Aidan Rickelman, sophomore,&nbsp;Southlake, Texas. From out of country: Toshiki Nango, sophomore,&nbsp;Kyoto, Japan.&nbsp; &nbsp;

K-State Salina Flight Team headed to national competition

Members of the Geary USD 475 Board of Education emerged from an executive session Tuesday night and voted not to renew the administrative employment contract of former Junction City High School Principal Merrier Tartt for the 2022-2023 school year. The Board adopted a resolution pertaining to the non-renewal on a 7-0 vote. Tart must be given written notice of the action on or before May 20th.

In March the Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Reginald Eggleston, confirmed that Tartt, who had been serving as the principal at JCHS was being reassigned at that time within the district. Assistant Principal James Neff was named the Acting Principal.&nbsp;

By Dewey TerrillJC PostMembers of the Geary USD 475 Board of Education emerged from an executive session Tuesday night and voted not to renew the administrative employment contract of former Junction City High School Principal Merrier Tartt for the 2022-2023 school year. The Board adopted a resolution pertaining to the non-renewal on a 7-0 vote. Tart must be given written notice of the action on or before May 20th.In March the Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Reginald Eggleston, confirmed that Tartt, who had been serving as the principal at JCHS was being reassigned at that time within the district. Assistant Principal James Neff was named the Acting Principal.&nbsp;

School board votes not to renew the contract of the former JCHS principal

You can feel the vibration as the motorcycles ridden by Run For the Wall riders rumble into Junction City on their cross country trip from California to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C.&nbsp; That has been the case in the past and is expected to occur again when they arrive in Junction City about 6 p.m. on May 22nd.&nbsp;

Convention and Visitor's Bureau Director Donna Price said it appears that there will be more than 400 riders. "Everything is going as scheduled. We've got the park ( Heritage Park ) set up for them." Riders roll into town off I-70, and then north to the Heritage Park where there will be a brief ceremony. They stay overnight in Junction City, are provided evening and morning meals and then depart on the 23rd for their next stop on their cross country trip.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651669250613.jpeg" alt="Photo from the 2019 Run for the Wall visit to Junction City" />
 <figcaption>Photo from the 2019 Run for the Wall visit to Junction City</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostYou can feel the vibration as the motorcycles ridden by Run For the Wall riders rumble into Junction City on their cross country trip from California to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C.&nbsp; That has been the case in the past and is expected to occur again when they arrive in Junction City about 6 p.m. on May 22nd.&nbsp;Convention and Visitor's Bureau Director Donna Price said it appears that there will be more than 400 riders. "Everything is going as scheduled. We've got the park ( Heritage Park ) set up for them." Riders roll into town off I-70, and then north to the Heritage Park where there will be a brief ceremony. They stay overnight in Junction City, are provided evening and morning meals and then depart on the 23rd for their next stop on their cross country trip.

Run for the Wall will roll into Junction City

Junction City police reported in their Wednesday tour log that notices to appear have been issued to juveniles in connection with an incident at 1321 Overbrooke Drive. The notices alleged Theft and Damage to Property in four cases, plus Trespass in one of those cases. 

In another case a juvenile was arrested on a requested charge of Criminal Threat stemming from an incident at 2209 Brooke Bend.&nbsp;

Junction City police reported in their Wednesday tour log that notices to appear have been issued to juveniles in connection with an incident at 1321 Overbrooke Drive. The notices alleged Theft and Damage to Property in four cases, plus Trespass in one of those cases. In another case a juvenile was arrested on a requested charge of Criminal Threat stemming from an incident at 2209 Brooke Bend.&nbsp;

Junction City police issue notices to appear in juvenile cases

Following staff recommendations the Geary USD 475 Board of Education has approved the addition of three new positions at Junction City High School. They include a physical education teacher, an ELA teacher for the 9th grade and a Literacy Lab teacher&nbsp; for 10th through 12th grades.

On the PE teaching position staff reported that in some cases there can be 90 kids in a class. It can be a challenge.

The school board also approved the creation of a budget specialist position for up to a two-and-a-half year period. This position will be at the Devin Center and will assist with the oversight of the budgets for grant funds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648134001640.jpeg" alt="USD 475 Board of Education met at the Devin Center Tuesday night" />
 <figcaption>USD 475 Board of Education met at the Devin Center Tuesday night</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostFollowing staff recommendations the Geary USD 475 Board of Education has approved the addition of three new positions at Junction City High School. They include a physical education teacher, an ELA teacher for the 9th grade and a Literacy Lab teacher&nbsp; for 10th through 12th grades.On the PE teaching position staff reported that in some cases there can be 90 kids in a class. It can be a challenge.The school board also approved the creation of a budget specialist position for up to a two-and-a-half year period. This position will be at the Devin Center and will assist with the oversight of the budgets for grant funds.

BOE gives the green light on new positions 

Republic-Washington-Marshall-Nemaha-Brown-Cloud-Clay-Riley-Pottawatomie-Jackson-Jefferson-Ottawa-Dickinson-Geary-Morris-Wabaunsee-Shawnee-Douglas-Lyon-Osage-Franklin-Coffey-Anderson

Thunderstorms are possible beginning Wednesday afternoon. The National Weather Service said severe weather is not expected at this time.

There is a chance for thunderstorms through Thursday. Brief periods of heavy rain are possible. Some storms Thursday could be strong with small hail and gusty winds.

Republic-Washington-Marshall-Nemaha-Brown-Cloud-Clay-Riley-Pottawatomie-Jackson-Jefferson-Ottawa-Dickinson-Geary-Morris-Wabaunsee-Shawnee-Douglas-Lyon-Osage-Franklin-Coffey-AndersonThunderstorms are possible beginning Wednesday afternoon. The National Weather Service said severe weather is not expected at this time.There is a chance for thunderstorms through Thursday. Brief periods of heavy rain are possible. Some storms Thursday could be strong with small hail and gusty winds.

Rain moves into the Junction City - Manhattan forecast

Student behavior challenges in Junction City High School and City Middle School have led officials to look at creation of a grades 6-12 alternative program at the H.D. Karns Building. Dr. Reginald Eggleston,&nbsp; USD 475 Superintendent,&nbsp; noted that District officials have been meeting to discuss the structure that needs to be in place to receive these students moving forward. "I know that it's been a heavy load for one person to deal with the behavior problems that we currently have there and so, in addition to that, needing the positions in order to provide academic services to those students."

Interim Director of Student Support Service, Thomas Wesoloski, informed the school board Tuesday night that there have been more discipline issues than in the past. "This year especially, we have had lots of students that get sent to the Karns Building that have had some major offenses at their home schools, City Middle and Junction City High School. "

Wesoloski noted with one administrator at the Karns Building it is difficult when there is major action occurring in one part of the building and no one to cover the other part of the facility. He added that officials believe it's time to put an assistant principal in the building to provide safety and extra help.

The school board has approved the addition of an assistant principal and four core teachers at the Karns Building. 

Wesoloski said the four core teachers are for sixth through eighth grade students that will be taken in. He added that it will be primarily behavior students that are going to be attending the Karns Building. "To have those teachers in their content areas to teach the academics, the curriculum that's used at the two middle schools, is important to have those teachers there."

By Dewey TerrillJC PostStudent behavior challenges in Junction City High School and City Middle School have led officials to look at creation of a grades 6-12 alternative program at the H.D. Karns Building. Dr. Reginald Eggleston,&nbsp; USD 475 Superintendent,&nbsp; noted that District officials have been meeting to discuss the structure that needs to be in place to receive these students moving forward. "I know that it's been a heavy load for one person to deal with the behavior problems that we currently have there and so, in addition to that, needing the positions in order to provide academic services to those students."Interim Director of Student Support Service, Thomas Wesoloski, informed the school board Tuesday night that there have been more discipline issues than in the past. "This year especially, we have had lots of students that get sent to the Karns Building that have had some major offenses at their home schools, City Middle and Junction City High School. "Wesoloski noted with one administrator at the Karns Building it is difficult when there is major action occurring in one part of the building and no one to cover the other part of the facility. He added that officials believe it's time to put an assistant principal in the building to provide safety and extra help.The school board has approved the addition of an assistant principal and four core teachers at the Karns Building. Wesoloski said the four core teachers are for sixth through eighth grade students that will be taken in. He added that it will be primarily behavior students that are going to be attending the Karns Building. "To have those teachers in their content areas to teach the academics, the curriculum that's used at the two middle schools, is important to have those teachers there."

USD 475 Board of Education beefs up staff for the Karns Building

Sunday, May 15, beginning at 3 p.m. is the date and time for graduation at Junction City High School. The information was released by USD 475. 

This will be the first commencement at the new high school.

Sunday, May 15, beginning at 3 p.m. is the date and time for graduation at Junction City High School. The information was released by USD 475. This will be the first commencement at the new high school.

JCHS commencement will be held May 15

Three days of searching have not produced any results, but authorities have identified the suspected drowning victim that they have been searching for at Milford Lake, as Jesse Paul Sockness (white man, 41,&nbsp; brown hair, brown eyes) of Lawrence, Kansas. He was last seen swimming to shore in Milford Lake on Saturday

According to Captain David Gilbert of the Sheriff's Department the search continued Tuesday as boats from the Geary County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, Wildlife and Parks/Milford State Park, and Wild Life and Parks Law Enforcement Division took to the waters.&nbsp; The area where the subject was last seen was thoroughly searched with side scan and live view sonar east across the lake to the area of Milford State park where a makeshift water vessel was located along with the female passenger who had ridden on it with the suspected drowning victim. A couple articles of clothing believed to belong to her and Sockness were located.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Geary County Sheriff/Junction City Fire Department Dive Team deployed into the area where Sockness was last seen and conducted several large area grid searches.&nbsp; All searches to this point have been met with negative results.&nbsp; Moving forward the Sheriff’s Office will continue to search the area throughout the coming days by land and by water multiple times each day/night.

Multiple agencies deployed personnel to Milford Lake on Tuesday in the search for a possible drowning victim. So far, they have been unable to locate the man who was last seen on Saturday in the lake.

According to Captain David Gilbert of the Geary County Sheriff's Department, the agencies participating in the search on Tuesday included the Sheriff's Department personnel and their marine unit, the Geary County - Junction City Fire Dive Team, Kansas Wildlife and Parks personnel and their law enforcement division.

The search began in the Curtis Creek area on the northwest side of the reservoir on Saturday. It has continued there and also shifted farther east.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651611657234.png" alt="photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE:Three days of searching have not produced any results, but authorities have identified the suspected drowning victim that they have been searching for at Milford Lake, as Jesse Paul Sockness (white man, 41,&nbsp; brown hair, brown eyes) of Lawrence, Kansas. He was last seen swimming to shore in Milford Lake on SaturdayAccording to Captain David Gilbert of the Sheriff's Department the search continued Tuesday as boats from the Geary County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, Wildlife and Parks/Milford State Park, and Wild Life and Parks Law Enforcement Division took to the waters.&nbsp; The area where the subject was last seen was thoroughly searched with side scan and live view sonar east across the lake to the area of Milford State park where a makeshift water vessel was located along with the female passenger who had ridden on it with the suspected drowning victim. A couple articles of clothing believed to belong to her and Sockness were located.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Geary County Sheriff/Junction City Fire Department Dive Team deployed into the area where Sockness was last seen and conducted several large area grid searches.&nbsp; All searches to this point have been met with negative results.&nbsp; Moving forward the Sheriff’s Office will continue to search the area throughout the coming days by land and by water multiple times each day/night.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;----Multiple agencies deployed personnel to Milford Lake on Tuesday in the search for a possible drowning victim. So far, they have been unable to locate the man who was last seen on Saturday in the lake.According to Captain David Gilbert of the Geary County Sheriff's Department, the agencies participating in the search on Tuesday included the Sheriff's Department personnel and their marine unit, the Geary County - Junction City Fire Dive Team, Kansas Wildlife and Parks personnel and their law enforcement division.The search began in the Curtis Creek area on the northwest side of the reservoir on Saturday. It has continued there and also shifted farther east.&nbsp;

Sheriff's Department identifies suspected drowning victim

Geary County Historical Society will host an open house at St. Joseph’s Historic Church this Saturday, May 7th, from 10:00a.m. to 1:00 p.m. St. Joseph’s is an ongoing renovation project for the Historical Society, most recently including masonry work and added electricity. Anyone interested in the building, or the restoration project is welcome to explore the building, learn more about the church and cemetery and enjoy refreshments at the open house. 

 The building, which was originally built in 1872 by local Irish Catholic settlers, and was rebuilt in 1910, is located at 13497 Lower McDowell Rd, just 1.5 miles south of I-70 off exit 307.

Geary County Historical Society will host an open house at St. Joseph’s Historic Church this Saturday, May 7th, from 10:00a.m. to 1:00 p.m. St. Joseph’s is an ongoing renovation project for the Historical Society, most recently including masonry work and added electricity. Anyone interested in the building, or the restoration project is welcome to explore the building, learn more about the church and cemetery and enjoy refreshments at the open house. The building, which was originally built in 1872 by local Irish Catholic settlers, and was rebuilt in 1910, is located at 13497 Lower McDowell Rd, just 1.5 miles south of I-70 off exit 307.

Geary County Historical Society announces open house

Project urges 4-H kids to build – and program – robots&nbsp;

By Pat Melgares, K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Somewhere in the midst of children laughing and small toys constructed of interlocking plastic bricks gobbling up one another, Macy Hynek is smiling.&nbsp;

The youth – between the ages of 6-18 – are playing a game of Hungry, Hungry Robot, a take on a popular board game by a similar name with plastic hippos as the centerpiece. Most in the small room see toys powered by computer circuits, but Hynek sees something else.&nbsp;

“These toys,” said Hynek, a 4-H Youth Development agent with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rivervalley.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">River Valley Extension District</a>&nbsp;in northcentral Kansas, “have really opened the kids’ eyes to what the future looks like and what our everyday technology looks like.”&nbsp;

Hynek leads the River Valley District’s robotics program, which encourages youth to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics – commonly called STEM – in their world.&nbsp;

“Research shows that the younger we start our youth in STEM, the better they are throughout their life,” Hynek said. “So if you introduce them at a young age and continue to introduce these concepts throughout their life, they’re not only likely to succeed in the STEM area, but other aspects of their life.”&nbsp;

The youth have programmed the robots to perform any number of movements or actions. Those aged 6-15 have encoded robots named ‘Cue’ or ‘Dash’ manufactured by the Wonder Workshop, a Silicon Valley education and robotics company. Older children, ages 15-18, have built their robots from Lego blocks using a popular kit from that national company.&nbsp;

“We’ve taught youth to code (program) so that they can use their robots in competition,” Hynek said. The recent Hungry, Hungry Robot contest drew 22 competitors from Clay, Cloud, Republic and Washington counties.&nbsp;

The goal, she said, is “to make kids aware of the things they can do in their future and how they can come back and impact local communities in Kansas.”&nbsp;

In surveys, youth report the project has inspired them to pursue engineering-related careers, according to Hynek.&nbsp;

“That’s satisfying to see,” she said. “They may or may not become an engineer; who knows? But just to have their interest in robotics is a win for us. We’ve introduced something new into their lives, and those are skills that they’ll take into anything they do as technology becomes a demanding thing in every profession.”&nbsp;

Project urges 4-H kids to build – and program – robots&nbsp;By Pat Melgares, K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. – Somewhere in the midst of children laughing and small toys constructed of interlocking plastic bricks gobbling up one another, Macy Hynek is smiling.&nbsp;The youth – between the ages of 6-18 – are playing a game of Hungry, Hungry Robot, a take on a popular board game by a similar name with plastic hippos as the centerpiece. Most in the small room see toys powered by computer circuits, but Hynek sees something else.&nbsp;“These toys,” said Hynek, a 4-H Youth Development agent with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rivervalley.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">River Valley Extension District</a>&nbsp;in northcentral Kansas, “have really opened the kids’ eyes to what the future looks like and what our everyday technology looks like.”&nbsp;Hynek leads the River Valley District’s robotics program, which encourages youth to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics – commonly called STEM – in their world.&nbsp;“Research shows that the younger we start our youth in STEM, the better they are throughout their life,” Hynek said. “So if you introduce them at a young age and continue to introduce these concepts throughout their life, they’re not only likely to succeed in the STEM area, but other aspects of their life.”&nbsp;The youth have programmed the robots to perform any number of movements or actions. Those aged 6-15 have encoded robots named ‘Cue’ or ‘Dash’ manufactured by the Wonder Workshop, a Silicon Valley education and robotics company. Older children, ages 15-18, have built their robots from Lego blocks using a popular kit from that national company.&nbsp;“We’ve taught youth to code (program) so that they can use their robots in competition,” Hynek said. The recent Hungry, Hungry Robot contest drew 22 competitors from Clay, Cloud, Republic and Washington counties.&nbsp;The goal, she said, is “to make kids aware of the things they can do in their future and how they can come back and impact local communities in Kansas.”&nbsp;In surveys, youth report the project has inspired them to pursue engineering-related careers, according to Hynek.&nbsp;“That’s satisfying to see,” she said. “They may or may not become an engineer; who knows? But just to have their interest in robotics is a win for us. We’ve introduced something new into their lives, and those are skills that they’ll take into anything they do as technology becomes a demanding thing in every profession.”&nbsp;

Robots open youth’s minds to STEM 

USD 475 employees who are retiring after the current school year were recognized during the Celebration of Teaching Banquet Monday evening.

In the Administrative Personnel category they included Grandview Elementary School Principal Lynn Shinault, Interim Director of Student Support Services Thomas Wesoloski and Ware Elementary School Assistant Principal Dana Williamson. In the Salaried Personnel category Marty Rombold, Grant Coordinator / Homeless, Lincoln Elementary.

--Brenda Breese, Certified Title I Tutor at Washington Elementary

--David Burch, Special Education Behavior Consultant, Devin Center

--Laurie Cooke, Grade 4, Lincoln Elementary

--Robin Daniels, School Nurse, Eisenhower Elementary

--Clifford French, Mathematics, Junction City High School

--Linda Howerton, Title 1 Tutor, Westwood Elementary

--Cheryl Hudson, Library Media Specialist, Westwood Elementary

--Charlotte Landrith, Early-Childhood, Pre-K, Junction City High School

--Lonnie Parker, Psychologist, Washington / Westwood Elementary

--Lizabeth Rosewicz, Elementary Art, Fort Riley Elementary

--Janelle Russell, Physical Education, Morris Hill Elementary

--Barbara Savant, Special Education, Junction City High School

--Gianetta Skidmore, Grade 2, Seitz Elementary

--Rolinda Smith, Literacy Lab / Reading Interventionist, Fort Riley Middle School

--Jody Steinbring, Grade 2, Ware Elementary

--Kristi York, Gifted, Lincoln Elementary

--Lynda Colston, Student Support Monitor, Karns Building

--Bryan Dunlap, Food Service Truck Driver, Ware Elementary

--Maren Howard, Child Nutrition Secretary, Junction City Middle School

--Merlin Jenkins, Mail Carrier, McConnell Maintenance Center

--Iris Marston, Library Clerk, Westwood Elementary

--Kathy Rohr, Head Secretary, Seitz Elementary

--Hense Williams, Student Support Monitor, Ware Elementary

USD 475 employees who are retiring after the current school year were recognized during the Celebration of Teaching Banquet Monday evening.In the Administrative Personnel category they included Grandview Elementary School Principal Lynn Shinault, Interim Director of Student Support Services Thomas Wesoloski and Ware Elementary School Assistant Principal Dana Williamson. In the Salaried Personnel category Marty Rombold, Grant Coordinator / Homeless, Lincoln Elementary.Certified personnel retiring include:--Brenda Breese, Certified Title I Tutor at Washington Elementary--David Burch, Special Education Behavior Consultant, Devin Center--Laurie Cooke, Grade 4, Lincoln Elementary--Robin Daniels, School Nurse, Eisenhower Elementary--Clifford French, Mathematics, Junction City High School--Linda Howerton, Title 1 Tutor, Westwood Elementary--Cheryl Hudson, Library Media Specialist, Westwood Elementary--Charlotte Landrith, Early-Childhood, Pre-K, Junction City High School--Lonnie Parker, Psychologist, Washington / Westwood Elementary--Lizabeth Rosewicz, Elementary Art, Fort Riley Elementary--Janelle Russell, Physical Education, Morris Hill Elementary--Barbara Savant, Special Education, Junction City High School--Gianetta Skidmore, Grade 2, Seitz Elementary--Rolinda Smith, Literacy Lab / Reading Interventionist, Fort Riley Middle School--Jody Steinbring, Grade 2, Ware Elementary--Kristi York, Gifted, Lincoln ElementaryIn Classified Staff they include:--Lynda Colston, Student Support Monitor, Karns Building--Bryan Dunlap, Food Service Truck Driver, Ware Elementary--Maren Howard, Child Nutrition Secretary, Junction City Middle School--Merlin Jenkins, Mail Carrier, McConnell Maintenance Center--Iris Marston, Library Clerk, Westwood Elementary--Beverly Roeser, Cook. Central Kitchen--Kathy Rohr, Head Secretary, Seitz Elementary--Hense Williams, Student Support Monitor, Ware Elementary

Retiring USD 475 employees are being recognized

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland announced that grant applications are now being accepted for the Rural Mural and Public Art program. 

The Kansas Department of Commerce will provide matching funds for communities to create new murals and public art projects that will engage community residents and create a place for the community to gather and enjoy.

“Public art is an important component&nbsp;in the health and vibrancy of communities across our state,”&nbsp;said Lieutenant Governor&nbsp;and Commerce Secretary David Toland. “The Rural Mural and Public Art program&nbsp;will create new destinations that tell the story of a community and inspire pride in residents and visitors to Kansas. All of this enhances quality of life and fuels new growth statewide.”

The program is designed for communities with populations under 10,000 to increase community vibrancy and provide space for artistic expression. Matching funds are available to established 501(c)(3) or 501(c)6 organizations based in Kansas, units of local government or federally recognized tribes.

“By investing in public art and murals, a community can highlight their shared identity, history, and culture, while creating beautiful places the entire region can enjoy,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Office of Rural Prosperity Director, Trisha Purdon.&nbsp;“We are pleased to partner with communities to support locally-led projects that will develop new destination point murals across rural Kansas.”

The maximum grant amount is $10,000, and there is a 1:1 match requirement for each project. The matching funds must consist of at least 50% cash expense provided by the applicant. In-kind, non-monetary donations and volunteer hours may be counted, up to 50% of the required match.

"Murals and public art are a catalyst for communities to engage in shared conversations about place and identity,”&nbsp;said Director of the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission, Peter Jasso.&nbsp;“They can illustrate, to residents and visitors alike, who we are and who we’d like to be. This partnership with the Office of Rural Prosperity will help initiate new projects that tell the story of our great Kansas communities."

The deadline to apply for the Rural Mural and Public Art program is May 16. You can&nbsp;find more information&nbsp;and submit an application&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA1MDIuNTcyOTY2NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2thbnNhc2NhaWMuc3VibWl0dGFibGUuY29tL3N1Ym1pdC8yMjQxMzEvcnVyYWwtbXVyYWwtcHVibGljLWFydC1vZmZpY2Utb2YtcnVyYWwtcHJvc3Blcml0eSJ9.16UO2YLFWUt-_JMbX7DoDe3VZDyn3nqNymAgrPbQKe0/s/1419840138/br/130693382105-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland announced that grant applications are now being accepted for the Rural Mural and Public Art program. The Kansas Department of Commerce will provide matching funds for communities to create new murals and public art projects that will engage community residents and create a place for the community to gather and enjoy.“Public art is an important component&nbsp;in the health and vibrancy of communities across our state,”&nbsp;said Lieutenant Governor&nbsp;and Commerce Secretary David Toland. “The Rural Mural and Public Art program&nbsp;will create new destinations that tell the story of a community and inspire pride in residents and visitors to Kansas. All of this enhances quality of life and fuels new growth statewide.”The program is designed for communities with populations under 10,000 to increase community vibrancy and provide space for artistic expression. Matching funds are available to established 501(c)(3) or 501(c)6 organizations based in Kansas, units of local government or federally recognized tribes.“By investing in public art and murals, a community can highlight their shared identity, history, and culture, while creating beautiful places the entire region can enjoy,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Office of Rural Prosperity Director, Trisha Purdon.&nbsp;“We are pleased to partner with communities to support locally-led projects that will develop new destination point murals across rural Kansas.”The maximum grant amount is $10,000, and there is a 1:1 match requirement for each project. The matching funds must consist of at least 50% cash expense provided by the applicant. In-kind, non-monetary donations and volunteer hours may be counted, up to 50% of the required match."Murals and public art are a catalyst for communities to engage in shared conversations about place and identity,”&nbsp;said Director of the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission, Peter Jasso.&nbsp;“They can illustrate, to residents and visitors alike, who we are and who we’d like to be. This partnership with the Office of Rural Prosperity will help initiate new projects that tell the story of our great Kansas communities."The deadline to apply for the Rural Mural and Public Art program is May 16. You can&nbsp;find more information&nbsp;and submit an application&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA1MDIuNTcyOTY2NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2thbnNhc2NhaWMuc3VibWl0dGFibGUuY29tL3N1Ym1pdC8yMjQxMzEvcnVyYWwtbXVyYWwtcHVibGljLWFydC1vZmZpY2Utb2YtcnVyYWwtcHJvc3Blcml0eSJ9.16UO2YLFWUt-_JMbX7DoDe3VZDyn3nqNymAgrPbQKe0/s/1419840138/br/130693382105-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

Applications accepted for Rural Mural and Public Art program

It has been said there is no place like home. Jyarland Daniels told a Celebration of Teaching Banquet audience in Junction City that she believes that is true. "Junction City is truly the only place that I call home."

Daniels holds degrees from the University of Kansas, University of Michigan and Wayne State University in Michigan and is a 1992 graduate of Junction City High School. She said that she currently lives in a suburb of Detroit and spends a lot of time in a couple of other places. "But I'm the first to say that I'm from Kansas and that makes me very proud. "

Daniels is a Global Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Consultant who supports schools, nonprofits, and organizations to assist their efforts to shape culture, improve communication and develop policies and practices that result in a more inclusive organization. She&nbsp; graduated from Junction City High School in 1992. Daniels stated that she owed all that she has become to educators, and noted that all of her educational accomplishments were possible because of the&nbsp; foundation laid in USD 475.&nbsp;

Daniels recognized many of her former teachers in the school district. She made it clear that the work of education requires everyone and "a school district can only be that which it's community is." She urged reflection on the community that exists and asked "are we creating a community which facilitates the learning, growth and development of each student in USD 475."

Daniels received a standing ovation from the audience.&nbsp;

During the event numerous scholarships were presented to teachers to further their education. Educators who are retiring from the district this year were also honored and also posed for a photo with Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Reginald Eggleston ( far left ).&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651543265990.jpeg" alt="1992 JCHS graduate Jyarland Daniels" />
 <figcaption>1992 JCHS graduate Jyarland Daniels</figcaption>
 </figure>It has been said there is no place like home. Jyarland Daniels told a Celebration of Teaching Banquet audience in Junction City that she believes that is true. "Junction City is truly the only place that I call home."Daniels holds degrees from the University of Kansas, University of Michigan and Wayne State University in Michigan and is a 1992 graduate of Junction City High School. She said that she currently lives in a suburb of Detroit and spends a lot of time in a couple of other places. "But I'm the first to say that I'm from Kansas and that makes me very proud. "Daniels is a Global Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Consultant who supports schools, nonprofits, and organizations to assist their efforts to shape culture, improve communication and develop policies and practices that result in a more inclusive organization. She&nbsp; graduated from Junction City High School in 1992. Daniels stated that she owed all that she has become to educators, and noted that all of her educational accomplishments were possible because of the&nbsp; foundation laid in USD 475.&nbsp;Daniels recognized many of her former teachers in the school district. She made it clear that the work of education requires everyone and "a school district can only be that which it's community is." She urged reflection on the community that exists and asked "are we creating a community which facilitates the learning, growth and development of each student in USD 475."Daniels received a standing ovation from the audience.&nbsp;During the event numerous scholarships were presented to teachers to further their education. Educators who are retiring from the district this year were also honored and also posed for a photo with Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Reginald Eggleston ( far left ).&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651542873710.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Junction City is home to Jyarland Daniels

MANHATTAN&nbsp;–&nbsp;&nbsp;A Riley County Police Department Police Officer has been issued a summons to appear in city court for an off-duty battery allegation, according to a media release.

Officer Brandon Gadia, 27, was reported to have hit a 25-year-old male after the isolated altercation involving personal matters between the two in the 1900 block of Lincoln Dr. on March 26, 2022, around 10:45 a.m. 

Gadia was immediately placed on administrative leave following the incident but was placed back on-duty as of April 15 due to determination the altercation posed no risk to his official duties. 

Kansas State University Police Department investigated the report, then gave their findings to City of Manhattan Chief Prosecutor Mellissa Rundus who, in return, issued the summons to Gadia today.

“We hold our employees to a high level of integrity and expect them to treat every member of our community with dignity and respect,” said Interim Director Kurt Moldrup. “I trust Chief Prosecutor Rundus’s commitment to gather all the facts surrounding what happened and her process to make a just decision. I want to ensure our community RCPD will continue to provide quality and professional law enforcement service to all.”

Appropriate internal discipline has been issued to Gadia following a separate internal investigation conducted by RCPD.

MANHATTAN&nbsp;–&nbsp;&nbsp;A Riley County Police Department Police Officer has been issued a summons to appear in city court for an off-duty battery allegation, according to a media release.Officer Brandon Gadia, 27, was reported to have hit a 25-year-old male after the isolated altercation involving personal matters between the two in the 1900 block of Lincoln Dr. on March 26, 2022, around 10:45 a.m. Gadia was immediately placed on administrative leave following the incident but was placed back on-duty as of April 15 due to determination the altercation posed no risk to his official duties. Kansas State University Police Department investigated the report, then gave their findings to City of Manhattan Chief Prosecutor Mellissa Rundus who, in return, issued the summons to Gadia today.“We hold our employees to a high level of integrity and expect them to treat every member of our community with dignity and respect,” said Interim Director Kurt Moldrup. “I trust Chief Prosecutor Rundus’s commitment to gather all the facts surrounding what happened and her process to make a just decision. I want to ensure our community RCPD will continue to provide quality and professional law enforcement service to all.”Appropriate internal discipline has been issued to Gadia following a separate internal investigation conducted by RCPD.

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