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

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

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

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

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

 Fort Riley to hold full-scale exercise Thursday

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

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

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

Crops are hanging on in Geary County

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Geary County Commission schedules a full day on Thursday

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

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

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

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

Geary County Free Fair numbers are out

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

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

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

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

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

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

Local officials will explain the Geary Community Hospital agreement

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

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

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

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

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

Geary County Commission adopts 2023 budgets

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CASA works to support youth

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

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

Be Real With Farmers

Geary County Sheriff's Deputies responded Saturday to South K-57 Highway at mile marker 12 for a single motorcycle injury accident. 

Acccording to the Sheriff's Department, Charles Tanner of Manhattan was traveling North on K-57 Highway on his 2006 Honda Motorcycle when he ran off the roadway and lost control. Tanner was transported to a Hospital and treated for minor injuries.&nbsp;

Geary County Sheriff's Deputies responded Saturday to South K-57 Highway at mile marker 12 for a single motorcycle injury accident. Acccording to the Sheriff's Department, Charles Tanner of Manhattan was traveling North on K-57 Highway on his 2006 Honda Motorcycle when he ran off the roadway and lost control. Tanner was transported to a Hospital and treated for minor injuries.&nbsp;

Geary Co. deputies respond to injury accident

Junction City Main Street coordinated a Christmas Social fundraiser at the C.L. Hoover Opera House Saturday night for the project to put up holiday lights in the downtown area.

Once funds have been raised red, green and blue lights can be hung on downtown buildings for different occasions.

Fundraising for the total project may take a couple of years but organizers were able to have lights on the Opera House Saturday night.

If you were unable to attend Saturday night you can donate to the project by writing a check to Junction City Main Street, PO Box 365, Junction City, KS or go to junctioncitymainstreet.org and donate online marking the Holiday Lights "bubble."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661126356647.jpeg" alt="Photo by Phyllis Fitzgerdald" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Phyllis Fitzgerdald</figcaption>
 </figure>Junction City Main Street coordinated a Christmas Social fundraiser at the C.L. Hoover Opera House Saturday night for the project to put up holiday lights in the downtown area.Once funds have been raised red, green and blue lights can be hung on downtown buildings for different occasions.Fundraising for the total project may take a couple of years but organizers were able to have lights on the Opera House Saturday night.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661127125388.jpeg" alt="Photo&nbsp; by Phyllis Fitzgerald" />
 <figcaption>Photo&nbsp; by Phyllis Fitzgerald</figcaption>
 </figure>If you were unable to attend Saturday night you can donate to the project by writing a check to Junction City Main Street, PO Box 365, Junction City, KS or go to junctioncitymainstreet.org and donate online marking the Holiday Lights "bubble."

Fundraising is under way for downtown holiday lights

Junction City - Geary County United Way has announced that there will be a Volunteer Fair on Sept. 17th in the 5th Street Playground Park.

If your agency or organization needs volunteers, contact them at director@unitedwayjcgc.org so that they can get you signed up!

Junction City - Geary County United Way has announced that there will be a Volunteer Fair on Sept. 17th in the 5th Street Playground Park.If your agency or organization needs volunteers, contact them at director@unitedwayjcgc.org so that they can get you signed up!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661129337997.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>

Volunteer Fair is slated for September

Optimist International is dedicated to being Friends Of Youth and Bringing Out The Best In Youth through scholarships; sponsorship of sports teams; musical groups and other local youth organizations.

There are 3,000 clubs with 80,000 members in 20 countries. Optimist International’s headquarters is in St. Louis Missouri.

Optimist International President, Patsy Garner, recognized 10 clubs or individuals among all the international clubs at the International Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada for going “One Degree More” in service of youth. The Optimist Creed was inscribed on a slate plaque. The award was personally presented to the JC Breakfast Optimist Club on Saturday, August 21, 2022 at the 62nd Kansas District Convention in Salina, Kansas. Lister Florence, the Optimist International Middle America Vice President and Kansas Optimist Club Governor, Jeff Bachman presented the award to JC Breakfast Optimist Club members Don Manley, President; Nita Miller, President-Elect; Ferrell Miller, Secretary; Joe Handlos, Treasurer and Buz Bruzina Past President.

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club donates money to 17 different youth organizations in Geary County. Some of those include Christmas Is For Kids; Shop With A Cop; I.C.A.R.E Center; Court Appointed Special Advocates; Fort Riley Special Needs Rodeo; Dorothy Bramlage Summer Reading Program; Geary County Historical Society “Hands On History” and others. Scholarship are given to a Junction City High School sophomore to attend the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Camp; the JC Community Band Jack Moore Scholarship and the Lawrence Long Memorial Scholarship to is presented to a Junction City High School graduate who will attend a vocational/technical school.

Fundraisers are held each quarter at JC’s BBQ &amp; Grill. Local businesses that support the JC Breakfast Optimist Club include Central National Bank; Armed Forces Bank; Holm Auto Center in Abilene and Salina; Jim Clark/Clark Cars.com; Coldwell Banker/Patriot Realty; Next Home Unlimited; Re/Max Signature Properties; the Hampton Inn; Cardinal Insurance, Brian Field, Agent; and State Farm Insurance, Heath Welch, Agent.

The Club meets every Wednesday at the Hampton Inn at 1039 S. Washington Street. “Celebrations of Optimism” begin at 6:50 AM. Those who attend for the first time receive a free breakfast buffet. Meetings include guest speakers; learning more about how volunteers work with youth; recognition programs and discussion about additional ways to support the youth in Geary County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661125436531.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Dr. Ferrell MillerOptimist International is dedicated to being Friends Of Youth and Bringing Out The Best In Youth through scholarships; sponsorship of sports teams; musical groups and other local youth organizations.There are 3,000 clubs with 80,000 members in 20 countries. Optimist International’s headquarters is in St. Louis Missouri.Optimist International President, Patsy Garner, recognized 10 clubs or individuals among all the international clubs at the International Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada for going “One Degree More” in service of youth. The Optimist Creed was inscribed on a slate plaque. The award was personally presented to the JC Breakfast Optimist Club on Saturday, August 21, 2022 at the 62nd Kansas District Convention in Salina, Kansas. Lister Florence, the Optimist International Middle America Vice President and Kansas Optimist Club Governor, Jeff Bachman presented the award to JC Breakfast Optimist Club members Don Manley, President; Nita Miller, President-Elect; Ferrell Miller, Secretary; Joe Handlos, Treasurer and Buz Bruzina Past President.The JC Breakfast Optimist Club donates money to 17 different youth organizations in Geary County. Some of those include Christmas Is For Kids; Shop With A Cop; I.C.A.R.E Center; Court Appointed Special Advocates; Fort Riley Special Needs Rodeo; Dorothy Bramlage Summer Reading Program; Geary County Historical Society “Hands On History” and others. Scholarship are given to a Junction City High School sophomore to attend the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Camp; the JC Community Band Jack Moore Scholarship and the Lawrence Long Memorial Scholarship to is presented to a Junction City High School graduate who will attend a vocational/technical school.Fundraisers are held each quarter at JC’s BBQ &amp; Grill. Local businesses that support the JC Breakfast Optimist Club include Central National Bank; Armed Forces Bank; Holm Auto Center in Abilene and Salina; Jim Clark/Clark Cars.com; Coldwell Banker/Patriot Realty; Next Home Unlimited; Re/Max Signature Properties; the Hampton Inn; Cardinal Insurance, Brian Field, Agent; and State Farm Insurance, Heath Welch, Agent.The Club meets every Wednesday at the Hampton Inn at 1039 S. Washington Street. “Celebrations of Optimism” begin at 6:50 AM. Those who attend for the first time receive a free breakfast buffet. Meetings include guest speakers; learning more about how volunteers work with youth; recognition programs and discussion about additional ways to support the youth in Geary County.

JC Breakfast Optimists receive recognition for service of youth

&nbsp;STEAM Saturday occurred at the Geary County Historical Society Museum this weekend. It was the first one of&nbsp; the school year.

Museum officials reported that more than 70 people visited the museum to take part in STEAM Saturday: Archaeology and Artifacts. Activities included "excavating" chocolate chip cookies for chocolate chips and exploring archaeological "dig boxes." Some of the dig boxes contained Geary County artifacts like small glass bottles and arrowheads, while others held broken pottery that needed to be reconstructed.&nbsp;

STEAM Saturday is a monthly activity day held the third Thursday of the month at the Geary County Historical Society with revolving topics that relate to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math). Activities&nbsp;are meant for visitors of all ages and while donations&nbsp;are always appreciated, the programs are free.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661044195267.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;STEAM Saturday occurred at the Geary County Historical Society Museum this weekend. It was the first one of&nbsp; the school year.Museum officials reported that more than 70 people visited the museum to take part in STEAM Saturday: Archaeology and Artifacts. Activities included "excavating" chocolate chip cookies for chocolate chips and exploring archaeological "dig boxes." Some of the dig boxes contained Geary County artifacts like small glass bottles and arrowheads, while others held broken pottery that needed to be reconstructed.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661044251205.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>STEAM Saturday is a monthly activity day held the third Thursday of the month at the Geary County Historical Society with revolving topics that relate to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math). Activities&nbsp;are meant for visitors of all ages and while donations&nbsp;are always appreciated, the programs are free.&nbsp; &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661044273224.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Archaeology and artifacts are the focus of Steam Saturday

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

Manhattan Fire Department was called out to the 1200 block of Poyntz Avenue on the report of a structure fire at 11:41 am on Saturday.

When crews arrived on the scene smoke was coming from the single story residence.

Five fire trucks with 15 fire fighters, along with the Battalion Chief responded to the fire.

Crews were able to extinguish the fire within 10 minutes of arriving on scene.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.&nbsp;Loss is estimated at $10,000 to contents and $21,000 to the structure. The owner is listed as Vincent E. Rucker and Lawrence J. Jr. Budenosky of Manhattan, Ks.

The house was unoccupied at the time of the fire. Riley County EMS responded to the scene as mutual aid and the Riley County Police Department provided traffic control through the area.

This is a developing story, additional details will be added as they become available.

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostManhattan Fire Department was called out to the 1200 block of Poyntz Avenue on the report of a structure fire at 11:41 am on Saturday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661019657078.jpeg" alt="Manhattan Fire Department on scene of structure fire" />
 <figcaption>Manhattan Fire Department on scene of structure fire</figcaption>
 </figure>When crews arrived on the scene smoke was coming from the single story residence.Five fire trucks with 15 fire fighters, along with the Battalion Chief responded to the fire.Crews were able to extinguish the fire within 10 minutes of arriving on scene.<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Sat Aug 20 2022 13:29:18 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Img 7880"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H0M14S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/thumbs/elCrO22c-1920.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/elCrO22c-nLOApRUW.mp4"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/elCrO22c-60zMcgvZ.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Img 7880" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>The cause of the fire remains under investigation.&nbsp;Loss is estimated at $10,000 to contents and $21,000 to the structure. The owner is listed as Vincent E. Rucker and Lawrence J. Jr. Budenosky of Manhattan, Ks. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661019536602.jpeg" alt="Manhattan Fire Department fire fighters on scene of the structure fire at 1200 block of Poyntz Avenue" />
 <figcaption>Manhattan Fire Department fire fighters on scene of the structure fire at 1200 block of Poyntz Avenue</figcaption>
 </figure>The house was unoccupied at the time of the fire. Riley County EMS responded to the scene as mutual aid and the Riley County Police Department provided traffic control through the area.This is a developing story, additional details will be added as they become available.

🎥: Fire causes $31K damage to home in Manhattan

Float Your Boat at the Milford Lake South Boat Ramp on Saturday didn't attract many entries. Only four boats were entered in the competition, which featured boats made of cardboard and duc tape.

Donna Price, Geary County Convention &amp; Visitor's Bureau, would have preferred more entries, but noted she was happy with those who entered approximately 100 people who attended to watch the event.&nbsp;

"We didn't have very many entries this year. We had four but we're going to have that to build upon. So that's what we're planning and we're going to change the date until June. So we're hoping that will open it up for some more folks."

Moving the event to early June could help organizers avoid having to worry about blue green algae weather problems and typically hotter temperatures in August.

Each of the boats entered were a winner in one category.

--In the teen category Odin's Warriors including Maxwell Sawin, Max Jueneman and Ayden Olguin were the winners in 54.87 on the Milford Lake course.

--In the open division Milford Friends turned in a time of 1:03.16

--In the Extreme division the USS Abraham Lincoln finished in 48.97.

--In the Family Division Micro Bootlegger entered by Gene and Bishop Bruning finished in 43.35

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661021232575.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostFloat Your Boat at the Milford Lake South Boat Ramp on Saturday didn't attract many entries. Only four boats were entered in the competition, which featured boats made of cardboard and duc tape.Donna Price, Geary County Convention &amp; Visitor's Bureau, would have preferred more entries, but noted she was happy with those who entered approximately 100 people who attended to watch the event.&nbsp;"We didn't have very many entries this year. We had four but we're going to have that to build upon. So that's what we're planning and we're going to change the date until June. So we're hoping that will open it up for some more folks."Moving the event to early June could help organizers avoid having to worry about blue green algae weather problems and typically hotter temperatures in August.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661021653062.jpeg" alt="Micro Bootlegger entered by Gene and Bishop Bruning won the Family Division" />
 <figcaption>Micro Bootlegger entered by Gene and Bishop Bruning won the Family Division</figcaption>
 </figure>Each of the boats entered were a winner in one category.--In the teen category Odin's Warriors including Maxwell Sawin, Max Jueneman and Ayden Olguin were the winners in 54.87 on the Milford Lake course.--In the open division Milford Friends turned in a time of 1:03.16--In the Extreme division the USS Abraham Lincoln finished in 48.97.--In the Family Division Micro Bootlegger entered by Gene and Bishop Bruning finished in 43.35

There were only four boats entered in Float Your Boat

'Country Jam in the Flint Hills' festival will benefit K-State's Johnson Cancer Research Center's colorectal cancer research.

Country music fans will head to Alma on Saturday evening to enjoy a concert with headliner, nationally known, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CraigCampbelltv">Craig Campbell</a>, and secondary opener, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/travismarvin">Travis Marvin</a>&nbsp;of Ottawa, KS.&nbsp;

Opening for Marvin and Campbell is Indiana country music artist, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JohnRyanMusic36">John Ryan</a>, who credits his interest in music to his mom.&nbsp;

"We talked about it a little bit, in there, and I honestly think my mom. So my mom always sang and my mom's a pretty good singer. She won't...she won't say it and she acts like she's not but she a...she's a good singer. We just to go to Karaoke bars, like in Florida, the kids could go in, we'd go down on vacation and she'd always sing 'Harper Valley PTA,' that was like her song. She'd always kill it, and I thought it was the coolest thing in the world. So I don't know, I never dreams of being a live musician. I just kind of did it as a hobby, and then I started playing shows and people are like 'Man, you sound pretty good.' and I'm like 'Well, thank you.' and I enjoyed writing the music and it's been kind of a snowball effect after that of just enjoying it. I love meeting new people and partying with new people. It's the best." John Ryan says.

Ryan made his way to Kansas for the first time to perform in Saturday's concert.

"First time in Kansas, ever, ever. I've never been, I've flown to Denver, I've been to Colorado and I've flown to Vegas twice, but I've never been in the 'in between states' if you will. It's beautiful, it's absolutely gorgeous out here." Ryan says.

Ryan says opening for such a well known artist is like a dream.

"Super exciting, we've been, I think we've had this in the books for about a year, now, right, it's been about a year or so and you know, I've...it's kind of been one of those things, it came up super quick, but you just throw it out there, 'yeah, I'm opening for Craig Campbell, you know, the guy that sings, 'Outskirts of Heaven'...it's really, really cool. It's an honor, I thank Bryan for having me and believing in me to come out and put on a good show for y'all. Hopefully we can do that." Ryan says.

Tickets are still available to <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/country-jam-in-the-flint-hills-tickets-301560334077?fbclid=IwAR1qJRtVSmIoJbOgvp9Poyqxy-sI2v5bP_eWyILRIFaHD9Ua-HoWLYiJvjY">purchase in advance</a> or you can pay for your ticket with cash at the event.

"I appreciate everyone having me out and everyone's been super awesome, super nice so I'm just hoping to put on a good show tomorrow." Ryan says.

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660951024677.jpeg" alt="John Ryan, opening artist" />
 <figcaption>John Ryan, opening artist</figcaption>
 </figure>'Country Jam in the Flint Hills' festival will benefit K-State's Johnson Cancer Research Center's colorectal cancer research.Country music fans will head to Alma on Saturday evening to enjoy a concert with headliner, nationally known, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CraigCampbelltv">Craig Campbell</a>, and secondary opener, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/travismarvin">Travis Marvin</a>&nbsp;of Ottawa, KS.&nbsp;Opening for Marvin and Campbell is Indiana country music artist, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JohnRyanMusic36">John Ryan</a>, who credits his interest in music to his mom.&nbsp;"We talked about it a little bit, in there, and I honestly think my mom. So my mom always sang and my mom's a pretty good singer. She won't...she won't say it and she acts like she's not but she a...she's a good singer. We just to go to Karaoke bars, like in Florida, the kids could go in, we'd go down on vacation and she'd always sing 'Harper Valley PTA,' that was like her song. She'd always kill it, and I thought it was the coolest thing in the world. So I don't know, I never dreams of being a live musician. I just kind of did it as a hobby, and then I started playing shows and people are like 'Man, you sound pretty good.' and I'm like 'Well, thank you.' and I enjoyed writing the music and it's been kind of a snowball effect after that of just enjoying it. I love meeting new people and partying with new people. It's the best." John Ryan says.Ryan made his way to Kansas for the first time to perform in Saturday's concert."First time in Kansas, ever, ever. I've never been, I've flown to Denver, I've been to Colorado and I've flown to Vegas twice, but I've never been in the 'in between states' if you will. It's beautiful, it's absolutely gorgeous out here." Ryan says.Ryan says opening for such a well known artist is like a dream."Super exciting, we've been, I think we've had this in the books for about a year, now, right, it's been about a year or so and you know, I've...it's kind of been one of those things, it came up super quick, but you just throw it out there, 'yeah, I'm opening for Craig Campbell, you know, the guy that sings, 'Outskirts of Heaven'...it's really, really cool. It's an honor, I thank Bryan for having me and believing in me to come out and put on a good show for y'all. Hopefully we can do that." Ryan says.Tickets are still available to <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/country-jam-in-the-flint-hills-tickets-301560334077?fbclid=IwAR1qJRtVSmIoJbOgvp9Poyqxy-sI2v5bP_eWyILRIFaHD9Ua-HoWLYiJvjY">purchase in advance</a> or you can pay for your ticket with cash at the event.<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Fri Aug 19 2022 18:58:10 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="John Ryan Music"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H1M27S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/thumbs/J7JDTdpl-960.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/J7JDTdpl-sxW7ZOMZ.mp4"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/J7JDTdpl-60zMcgvZ.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="John Ryan Music" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>"I appreciate everyone having me out and everyone's been super awesome, super nice so I'm just hoping to put on a good show tomorrow." Ryan says.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d984.0909969730195!2d-96.28602507468193!3d39.01838529761574!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0xb87b1235aa91a44!2zMznCsDAxJzA2LjIiTiA5NsKwMTcnMDcuMCJX!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1660953133533!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>

🎥: 'Country Jam in the Flint Hills' brings country artists to Alma on Saturday

Geary County Commissioners will conduct a revenue neutral rate hearing for Rural Fire District #1 Monday at 11 a.m. and immediately afterwards a public hearing for 2023 proposed budgets including the County spending plan, Fire District #1, Water District #2, Sewer District #4 and the Library District.

Geary County Commissioners will conduct a revenue neutral rate hearing for Rural Fire District #1 Monday at 11 a.m. and immediately afterwards a public hearing for 2023 proposed budgets including the County spending plan, Fire District #1, Water District #2, Sewer District #4 and the Library District.

County schedules budget public hearing

TOPEKA — Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 2.4% in July. This was unchanged from 2.4% in June and a decrease from 3.4% in July 2021.

“Kansas and the U.S. have maintained relatively low unemployment rates so far in 2022, with Kansas remaining at 2.4% and the U.S. reaching 3.5% in July.” said Secretary Amber Shultz.

The jobless rate rose across northeast Kansas. Riley County's unemployment rate rose from 3.0 percent in June to 3.7 percent in July. Geary, Pottawatomie, Dickinson, Clay, Morris and Shawnee counties all have unemployment rates higher than 3 percent.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 3,500 from June. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 4,000 over the month, while government decreased by 500.

“July estimates indicate that private sector jobs increased by 4,000 over the month,” said Labor Economist Emilie Doerksen. “The manufacturing industry added 1,500 jobs with significant gains in durable goods manufacturing. The second largest gains were recorded in trade, transportation, and utilities which contributed 1,000 jobs to the overall private sector growth.”

Since July 2021 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 13,500. This change is due to an increase of 16,700 private sector jobs and a decrease of 3,200 government jobs.

Complete Kansas labor market information for July is available here.

The August 2022 Labor Report will be released on Friday, September 16.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660919701316.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA — Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 2.4% in July. This was unchanged from 2.4% in June and a decrease from 3.4% in July 2021.“Kansas and the U.S. have maintained relatively low unemployment rates so far in 2022, with Kansas remaining at 2.4% and the U.S. reaching 3.5% in July.” said Secretary Amber Shultz.The jobless rate rose across northeast Kansas. Riley County's unemployment rate rose from 3.0 percent in June to 3.7 percent in July. Geary, Pottawatomie, Dickinson, Clay, Morris and Shawnee counties all have unemployment rates higher than 3 percent.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 3,500 from June. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 4,000 over the month, while government decreased by 500.“July estimates indicate that private sector jobs increased by 4,000 over the month,” said Labor Economist Emilie Doerksen. “The manufacturing industry added 1,500 jobs with significant gains in durable goods manufacturing. The second largest gains were recorded in trade, transportation, and utilities which contributed 1,000 jobs to the overall private sector growth.”Since July 2021 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 13,500. This change is due to an increase of 16,700 private sector jobs and a decrease of 3,200 government jobs.Complete Kansas labor market information for July is available here.The August 2022 Labor Report will be released on Friday, September 16.

Jobless rates rise across northeast Kansas in July

Numerous construction projects are under way in Junction City, but we checked on two of note in the Public Works section of the city manager's 515 report this week.

KDOT held a Utility Coordination Meeting on July 19 to determine the status of all Utilities, who was in conflict and the timelines on relocation. King Construction waiting on UPPR for demo plan to be approved. Work is also waiting on Evergy, Lumen and AT&amp;T to relocate their utilities.

Closure of the bridge could be sometime in August depending on UPPR and the Utilities being moved.

On the K-18 roundabout on the west side of the city the Karns Dr. intersection has already opened on the south side. Work is getting closer to completion on the Blue Jay Way intersection on the north side.&nbsp;

The roundabout is open for traffic and the Middle School traffic will be able to use Karns Dr. Unfortunately Blue Jay Way from the roundabout is still closed due to a traffic sign needing to be installed. Blue Jay Way should be open to traffic by Monday August 22nd.

Pavement markings and pedesrtrian markings have been completed. The street lights on the roundabout are now working.

Numerous construction projects are under way in Junction City, but we checked on two of note in the Public Works section of the city manager's 515 report this week.6th St. Bridge Project:KDOT held a Utility Coordination Meeting on July 19 to determine the status of all Utilities, who was in conflict and the timelines on relocation. King Construction waiting on UPPR for demo plan to be approved. Work is also waiting on Evergy, Lumen and AT&amp;T to relocate their utilities.Closure of the bridge could be sometime in August depending on UPPR and the Utilities being moved.K-18 &amp; Karns Roundabout:On the K-18 roundabout on the west side of the city the Karns Dr. intersection has already opened on the south side. Work is getting closer to completion on the Blue Jay Way intersection on the north side.&nbsp;The roundabout is open for traffic and the Middle School traffic will be able to use Karns Dr. Unfortunately Blue Jay Way from the roundabout is still closed due to a traffic sign needing to be installed. Blue Jay Way should be open to traffic by Monday August 22nd.Pavement markings and pedesrtrian markings have been completed. The street lights on the roundabout are now working.

Junction City Public Works provides an update on key construction projects

MANHATTAN, KAN. –&nbsp;Shortly before 10:30 a.m. Friday,&nbsp; police arrested Tristian Gooden Heit, 27, of Manhattan on multiple sex crime charges after sexually explicit pictures of a juvenile were found on his phone, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

Gooden Heit is being held on requested charged with 15 counts of sexual exploitation of a child younger than 18, and one count each of unlawful computer acts and interference with law enforcement.

Gooden Heit remains confined in the Riley County Jail in lieu of bond.

MANHATTAN, KAN. –&nbsp;Shortly before 10:30 a.m. Friday,&nbsp; police arrested Tristian Gooden Heit, 27, of Manhattan on multiple sex crime charges after sexually explicit pictures of a juvenile were found on his phone, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.Gooden Heit is being held on requested charged with 15 counts of sexual exploitation of a child younger than 18, and one count each of unlawful computer acts and interference with law enforcement.Gooden Heit remains confined in the Riley County Jail in lieu of bond.

Manhattan man jailed after explicit photos of kids found on his phone

There will be plenty to do this Saturday in Geary County.

--JCHS football has an open public scrimmage from 9 - 11 a.m. at the Blue Jay Stadium.

--The Geary County CVB's Float Your Boat will be at Milford State Park's South Boat Ramp with activities from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.&nbsp; Cardboard boats held together with duc tape are prepared by those entering the boat races in multiple categories. There will be prizes for the winners. There will be a Safety Fair from 10 a.m. until about noon, with the judging of the boats at 11:30 and the races starting at noon.

--There will be a Christmas Social at the C. L. Hoover Opera House on Saturday from 6-8 p.m. to raise money for holiday lights for the downtown. Admission will be $30 per person or $50 per couple&nbsp; for the adult-only evening. The Junction City Main Street event is being sponsored by D.E.L. Motors.&nbsp;

-- There will be a Bow Slinger 3-D Archery tournament at the Outdoor Adventure Park at Fort Riley on Saturday. In conjunction with the tournament. the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley will hold a Meet Your Army event, open to the public from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.&nbsp;

--Archaeology and Artifacts: Cookie Excavation will be presented by the Geary County Historical Society during STEAM Saturday. The event is scheduled this Saturday from 1-3:30 p.m. at the Historical Museum. Admission will be free.

--The 2022 Junction City Brigade 4-person golf scramble is scheduled Saturday at Rolling Meadows Golf Course. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. and there will be a shotgun start at 9 a.m. This is a fundraiser for the Brigade baseball program.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThere will be plenty to do this Saturday in Geary County.--JCHS football has an open public scrimmage from 9 - 11 a.m. at the Blue Jay Stadium.--The Geary County CVB's Float Your Boat will be at Milford State Park's South Boat Ramp with activities from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.&nbsp; Cardboard boats held together with duc tape are prepared by those entering the boat races in multiple categories. There will be prizes for the winners. There will be a Safety Fair from 10 a.m. until about noon, with the judging of the boats at 11:30 and the races starting at noon.--There will be a Christmas Social at the C. L. Hoover Opera House on Saturday from 6-8 p.m. to raise money for holiday lights for the downtown. Admission will be $30 per person or $50 per couple&nbsp; for the adult-only evening. The Junction City Main Street event is being sponsored by D.E.L. Motors.&nbsp;-- There will be a Bow Slinger 3-D Archery tournament at the Outdoor Adventure Park at Fort Riley on Saturday. In conjunction with the tournament. the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley will hold a Meet Your Army event, open to the public from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.&nbsp;--Archaeology and Artifacts: Cookie Excavation will be presented by the Geary County Historical Society during STEAM Saturday. The event is scheduled this Saturday from 1-3:30 p.m. at the Historical Museum. Admission will be free.--The 2022 Junction City Brigade 4-person golf scramble is scheduled Saturday at Rolling Meadows Golf Course. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. and there will be a shotgun start at 9 a.m. This is a fundraiser for the Brigade baseball program.

Busy Saturday is planned in Geary County 

Geary County 4-H'ers planning to send exhibits to the state fair need to have them to the Extension Office by Tuesday, Sept. 6 at 5 p.m. If it is a food or produce item you can deliver it from 7 - 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 7.

News notes contained in the Geary County 4-H newsletter include:

--A requirement for each club to select two youth and two adults as 4-H Council representatives. The next council meeting will be Oct. 3 at 7 p.m. at the 4-H Senior Citizens Center.

--The Achievement Celebration is scheduled the evening of Saturday, Nov. 5th. Photos are needed for a slide show showcasing the 4-H year at the Achievement Celebration.

--Noticing declining enrollment in the sheep project, a local sheep breeder has reached out to offer to donate a lamb to a limited number of new sheep project members. Those selected for the first-come, first serve will be required to buy a second lamb at a discount and will need to provide their own location for housing the lambs and feeding them. Contact the Extension Office by Dec. 1 if you are interested.

--County-wide project leaders are needed. You can volunteer your time for this effort by calling the Extension Office on or before Oct. 3rd.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary County 4-H'ers planning to send exhibits to the state fair need to have them to the Extension Office by Tuesday, Sept. 6 at 5 p.m. If it is a food or produce item you can deliver it from 7 - 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 7.News notes contained in the Geary County 4-H newsletter include:--A requirement for each club to select two youth and two adults as 4-H Council representatives. The next council meeting will be Oct. 3 at 7 p.m. at the 4-H Senior Citizens Center.--The Achievement Celebration is scheduled the evening of Saturday, Nov. 5th. Photos are needed for a slide show showcasing the 4-H year at the Achievement Celebration.--National 4-H Week will be Oct. 2-8.--Noticing declining enrollment in the sheep project, a local sheep breeder has reached out to offer to donate a lamb to a limited number of new sheep project members. Those selected for the first-come, first serve will be required to buy a second lamb at a discount and will need to provide their own location for housing the lambs and feeding them. Contact the Extension Office by Dec. 1 if you are interested.--County-wide project leaders are needed. You can volunteer your time for this effort by calling the Extension Office on or before Oct. 3rd.

Geary County 4-H outlines activities and deadlines

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/08/18/kansas-state-president-quickly-plowing-new-ground-to-raise-75-million-in-private-donations/">Kansas Reflector</a>

MANHATTAN — Kansas State 
University president Richard Linton said Thursday success of a campaign 
to raise $75 million in less than one year could transform agriculture 
education at the land-grant institution by modernizing grain, food, 
animal and agronomy research and innovation.

He said the university received a $25 million grant from the Kansas 
Legislature and embarked on an effort to raise $75 million in private 
gifts to qualify for a supplemental 3:1 match from the state, or another
 $25 million. The cash would be used to overhaul the College of 
Agriculture’s presence on campus by renovating two buildings and adding 
another.

The deadline for securing and certifying the $75 million in contributions is March 2023.

“Our challenge is that we’ve got to make this happen,” said Linton, 
who officially started his job at Kansas State in February. “We’re 
working hard. It’s time for agriculture.”

Linton urged 400 participants at the Kansas Governor’s Summit on 
Agricultural Growth to support the campaign by advocating for Kansas 
State and, potentially, by making donations to the special fund. A 
comparable campaign at North Carolina State University, where he 
previously worked, gained traction by collaborating 44 commodity groups 
in that state.

He said Kansas agriculture faced significant business obstacles that 
included the dwindling underground Ogallala aquifer, volatile climate 
conditions and inflation in the cost of fertilizer, equipment, seed, 
fuel and other inputs.

Challenges at Kansas State centered on the 21% student enrollment 
decline — about 4,000 students — in the past eight years, Linton said. 
That lost revenue hurt the university’s budget, weakened opportunity to 
improve faculty and staff compensation and delayed improvements in 
campus facilities, he said.

Linton said Kansas State had placed renewed emphasis on raising more 
money for student scholarships. He said KSU would advance a proposal to 
charge out-of-state students with 3.9 or higher school grade-point 
averages the lower in-state tuition rate. That program would offer a 
discount to nonresident students with 3.25 or higher GPAs.

In addition, he said, Kansas State would more directly engage Kansas 
communities at town halls and through other means to explain the 
university’s place in their lives and explore how the university might 
be more directly beneficial to Kansans. The expected the approach would 
lead to enrollment of 500 to 1,000 more students in fall 2023, he said.

Gov. Laura Kelly, who is seeking reelection against Republican 
nominee Derek Schmidt, said agriculture contributed nearly $70 billion 
to the Kansas economy and fueled nearly 240,000 jobs in 2021. She said 
Kansas exported a record $5.35 billion of agricultural goods in the past
 year.

“The Kansas ag industry is the life blood of this 
state,” Kelly said. “Given we saw record-breaking agricultural exports 
last year, I’ve never been more confident in the agriculture community’s
 ability to lead our state toward continued success.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660916666095.png" alt="Kansas State University president Richard Linton said during the governor’s agriculture conference in Manhattan the land-grant university was working to raise $75 million in private donations by March to qualify for a $25 million grant from the state. It’s part of a $125 million plan to improve facilities to spark development of agriculture research and innovation centers. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State University president Richard Linton said during the governor’s agriculture conference in Manhattan the land-grant university was working to raise $75 million in private donations by March to qualify for a $25 million grant from the state. It’s part of a $125 million plan to improve facilities to spark development of agriculture research and innovation centers. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/08/18/kansas-state-president-quickly-plowing-new-ground-to-raise-75-million-in-private-donations/">Kansas Reflector</a>MANHATTAN — Kansas State 
University president Richard Linton said Thursday success of a campaign 
to raise $75 million in less than one year could transform agriculture 
education at the land-grant institution by modernizing grain, food, 
animal and agronomy research and innovation.He said the university received a $25 million grant from the Kansas 
Legislature and embarked on an effort to raise $75 million in private 
gifts to qualify for a supplemental 3:1 match from the state, or another
 $25 million. The cash would be used to overhaul the College of 
Agriculture’s presence on campus by renovating two buildings and adding 
another.The deadline for securing and certifying the $75 million in contributions is March 2023.“Our challenge is that we’ve got to make this happen,” said Linton, 
who officially started his job at Kansas State in February. “We’re 
working hard. It’s time for agriculture.”Linton urged 400 participants at the Kansas Governor’s Summit on 
Agricultural Growth to support the campaign by advocating for Kansas 
State and, potentially, by making donations to the special fund. A 
comparable campaign at North Carolina State University, where he 
previously worked, gained traction by collaborating 44 commodity groups 
in that state.He said Kansas agriculture faced significant business obstacles that 
included the dwindling underground Ogallala aquifer, volatile climate 
conditions and inflation in the cost of fertilizer, equipment, seed, 
fuel and other inputs.Challenges at Kansas State centered on the 21% student enrollment 
decline — about 4,000 students — in the past eight years, Linton said. 
That lost revenue hurt the university’s budget, weakened opportunity to 
improve faculty and staff compensation and delayed improvements in 
campus facilities, he said.Linton said Kansas State had placed renewed emphasis on raising more 
money for student scholarships. He said KSU would advance a proposal to 
charge out-of-state students with 3.9 or higher school grade-point 
averages the lower in-state tuition rate. That program would offer a 
discount to nonresident students with 3.25 or higher GPAs.In addition, he said, Kansas State would more directly engage Kansas 
communities at town halls and through other means to explain the 
university’s place in their lives and explore how the university might 
be more directly beneficial to Kansans. The expected the approach would 
lead to enrollment of 500 to 1,000 more students in fall 2023, he said.Gov. Laura Kelly, who is seeking reelection against Republican 
nominee Derek Schmidt, said agriculture contributed nearly $70 billion 
to the Kansas economy and fueled nearly 240,000 jobs in 2021. She said 
Kansas exported a record $5.35 billion of agricultural goods in the past
 year.“The Kansas ag industry is the life blood of this 
state,” Kelly said. “Given we saw record-breaking agricultural exports 
last year, I’ve never been more confident in the agriculture community’s
 ability to lead our state toward continued success.”