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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Manhattan woman jailed for alleged child endangerment

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

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

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

Blue green algae status is updated by KDHE

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

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

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

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

Annual property taxes to support the hospital will not increase.

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

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

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

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

Geary County leaders outline the hospital agreement

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

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

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

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

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

Army recruiting struggles are a focus at the MAC breakfast

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

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

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

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

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

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

GCH announces letter of intent with medical equipment supply company

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RCPD warns of overdoses involving fentanyl at high school

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chuck Otte retirement reception will be held Saturday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Commissioner responds to campaign opponent

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

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