TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Governor’s Council on Fitness (GCOF) presented the 2022 Kansas Health Champion Awards during the Community Health Promotion Summit today, Thursday, January 27.

The Governor’s Council on Fitness developed the Health Champion Award to recognize and promote exemplary contributions to fitness in Kansas. Those recognized include an individual and organization and honorable mentions in each category.

“The winners were selected for the exceptional efforts they have put forth to model, encourage and promote fitness in Kansas,” said Jody Hoener, GCOF Awards Chair. “Their efforts have made a positive impact on their communities and inspired others around them to get involved.”&nbsp;

&nbsp;“Congratulations&nbsp;to this year’s Health Champions,” said Janet Stanek, Acting Secretary. “We thank you for the work you have done across Kansas to promote the importance of fitness in your communities.”

Mike Goodwin&nbsp;of Topeka is a longtime volunteer and board member with Kansas Trails Council (KTC), an all-volunteer nonprofit dedicated to building and maintaining natural-surface trails for public use. However, Goodwin’s commitment to ensuring that every community has access to a safe place to walk, hike or bike far transcends even KTC’s laudable mission.

Elizabeth Burger of Sunflower Foundation, who nominated Goodwin, said, “Our foundation has had the honor of working with Mike for the past nine years. During this time, I have witnessed how he has donated his time to travel the entire state of Kansas to personally mentor, guide and work along dozens of communities and nonprofits that want to build a trail in order to have a safe, accessible place to be physically active in the outdoors. Mike listens to each community and their specific needs and priorities regarding a trail and provides invaluable support and technical assistance every step of the way.”

Salud + Bienestar’s mission is to provide information to empower, lead and connect community members to live a healthier life within the traditional Spanish-speaking cultures. They provide relevant health information and education to help Spanish-speaking individuals work through the barriers they face when addressing complex issues, such as navigating the health care system, gaining access to affordable fresh and nutritious foods and bringing community members closer together.

Shelley Rich, who nominated Salud + Bienestar, said, “They are passionate about the health of residents in North Wichita and are a trusted source of information. Salud + Bienestar goes above and beyond to promote health and fitness to those they serve. Their work as a liaison between health and social services and the community has improved the access, quality control and cultural competence of the service delivery to the Spanish-speaking community.”&nbsp;

Clyde Jones&nbsp;of Manhattan turned 99 years old in December 2021. For nearly a century, he has modeled, encouraged, and promoted health, fitness, and wellness in the broadest sense. Jones was the leading force in organizing the Community Health Council, bringing community partners (city, county hospital, school board, public health, etc.). In addition, Jones wrapped up his 10th Annual C. Clyde Run last fall, which raises funds each year for Shepherd’s Crossing, a local philanthropic organization.&nbsp;

Connie Satzler, who nominated Jones, said, “Physical activity and fitness are a pillar of Clyde’s lifestyle and legacy. His efforts in developing coordination and collaboration among health care providers has had a lasting effect of making health more accessible to low-income populations and more efficiently delivered. He is always looking for new opportunities to get involved in the years ahead to better his community and to keep making new friends along the way.”&nbsp;

Colby United Methodist Church&nbsp;(UMC)&nbsp;has participated in programs that seek to address food insecurity, such as partnering with the school district and other organizations to support the Summer Food Service Program for their community. They have worked with the Thomas County Coalition to start a community garden, plus Colby UMC has worked with additional partners in the community to support a free bike-share program.

Katie Schoenhoff, who nominated Colby UMC, said, “Colby United Methodist Church has long demonstrated an outstanding level of commitment and service to the health and wellness of both congregation and community, going beyond expectations to address not only immediate needs but also the underlying social determinants of health. Their partnerships with local organizations have supported both the sustainability of their efforts and increased community engagement.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643368667934.png" alt="Clyde Jones during the virtual honor ceremony&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Clyde Jones during the virtual honor ceremony&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Governor’s Council on Fitness (GCOF) presented the 2022 Kansas Health Champion Awards during the Community Health Promotion Summit today, Thursday, January 27.The Governor’s Council on Fitness developed the Health Champion Award to recognize and promote exemplary contributions to fitness in Kansas. Those recognized include an individual and organization and honorable mentions in each category.<ul>
 <li>Individual Health Champion: Mike Goodwin, Topeka</li><li>Organizational Health Champion: Salud + Bienestar, Wichita&nbsp;</li><li>Individual Honorable Mention: C. Clyde Jones, Manhattan</li><li>Organizational Honorable Mention: Colby United Methodist Church, Colby</li>
 </ul>“The winners were selected for the exceptional efforts they have put forth to model, encourage and promote fitness in Kansas,” said Jody Hoener, GCOF Awards Chair. “Their efforts have made a positive impact on their communities and inspired others around them to get involved.”&nbsp;&nbsp;“Congratulations&nbsp;to this year’s Health Champions,” said Janet Stanek, Acting Secretary. “We thank you for the work you have done across Kansas to promote the importance of fitness in your communities.”Health ChampionsMike Goodwin&nbsp;of Topeka is a longtime volunteer and board member with Kansas Trails Council (KTC), an all-volunteer nonprofit dedicated to building and maintaining natural-surface trails for public use. However, Goodwin’s commitment to ensuring that every community has access to a safe place to walk, hike or bike far transcends even KTC’s laudable mission.Elizabeth Burger of Sunflower Foundation, who nominated Goodwin, said, “Our foundation has had the honor of working with Mike for the past nine years. During this time, I have witnessed how he has donated his time to travel the entire state of Kansas to personally mentor, guide and work along dozens of communities and nonprofits that want to build a trail in order to have a safe, accessible place to be physically active in the outdoors. Mike listens to each community and their specific needs and priorities regarding a trail and provides invaluable support and technical assistance every step of the way.”Salud + Bienestar’s mission is to provide information to empower, lead and connect community members to live a healthier life within the traditional Spanish-speaking cultures. They provide relevant health information and education to help Spanish-speaking individuals work through the barriers they face when addressing complex issues, such as navigating the health care system, gaining access to affordable fresh and nutritious foods and bringing community members closer together.Shelley Rich, who nominated Salud + Bienestar, said, “They are passionate about the health of residents in North Wichita and are a trusted source of information. Salud + Bienestar goes above and beyond to promote health and fitness to those they serve. Their work as a liaison between health and social services and the community has improved the access, quality control and cultural competence of the service delivery to the Spanish-speaking community.”&nbsp;Honorable Mentions&nbsp;Clyde Jones&nbsp;of Manhattan turned 99 years old in December 2021. For nearly a century, he has modeled, encouraged, and promoted health, fitness, and wellness in the broadest sense. Jones was the leading force in organizing the Community Health Council, bringing community partners (city, county hospital, school board, public health, etc.). In addition, Jones wrapped up his 10th Annual C. Clyde Run last fall, which raises funds each year for Shepherd’s Crossing, a local philanthropic organization.&nbsp;Connie Satzler, who nominated Jones, said, “Physical activity and fitness are a pillar of Clyde’s lifestyle and legacy. His efforts in developing coordination and collaboration among health care providers has had a lasting effect of making health more accessible to low-income populations and more efficiently delivered. He is always looking for new opportunities to get involved in the years ahead to better his community and to keep making new friends along the way.”&nbsp;Colby United Methodist Church&nbsp;(UMC)&nbsp;has participated in programs that seek to address food insecurity, such as partnering with the school district and other organizations to support the Summer Food Service Program for their community. They have worked with the Thomas County Coalition to start a community garden, plus Colby UMC has worked with additional partners in the community to support a free bike-share program.Katie Schoenhoff, who nominated Colby UMC, said, “Colby United Methodist Church has long demonstrated an outstanding level of commitment and service to the health and wellness of both congregation and community, going beyond expectations to address not only immediate needs but also the underlying social determinants of health. Their partnerships with local organizations have supported both the sustainability of their efforts and increased community engagement.”&nbsp;

Manhattan man recognized as a KDHE health champion

Plans are being formulated for the Freedom Fest JC celebration that will be held in Junction City this year. The celebration is scheduled July 1-4. Committee Chair Nate Butler has confirmed that there are tentative plans for a carnival during the festival with the carnival beginning on June 30th and running through July 4th. 

" We are finalizing some contracts with the entertainment as well as the carnival. The carnival organization is WEEE Carnival Enterprises."&nbsp;

Butler stated that the focus for the celebration will be on a party in downtown Junction City. "Lot of things for families during the day and then the evening will be our concert series." Organizers are finalizing plans for vendors and food for the celebration as well.

Sundown Salute is also scheduled to continue this year with activities ranging from a parade in Junction City to concerts in Milford.

Plans are being formulated for the Freedom Fest JC celebration that will be held in Junction City this year. The celebration is scheduled July 1-4. Committee Chair Nate Butler has confirmed that there are tentative plans for a carnival during the festival with the carnival beginning on June 30th and running through July 4th. " We are finalizing some contracts with the entertainment as well as the carnival. The carnival organization is WEEE Carnival Enterprises."&nbsp;Butler stated that the focus for the celebration will be on a party in downtown Junction City. "Lot of things for families during the day and then the evening will be our concert series." Organizers are finalizing plans for vendors and food for the celebration as well.Sundown Salute is also scheduled to continue this year with activities ranging from a parade in Junction City to concerts in Milford.

Plans are being formulated for Freedom Fest JC

As of February 1st, 2022, the Geary County Health Department and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) will no longer conduct COVID-19 contact outreach and monitoring, otherwise known as contact tracing.

Contact tracing is when Public Health notifies close contacts to let them know that they were exposed to an infectious disease and tells them about the signs and symptoms to watch out for. Participation in contact tracing has always been voluntary. The decision to end contact outreach and monitoring was made due to the surge in the amount of positive COVID-19 cases, and the public's willingness to participate has diminished since the beginning of the pandemic.

"As we enter the third year of this pandemic, public health has to begin to adjust the level of response to help alleviate the strain on the Public Health system," Janet Stanek, Acting Secretary, said. "The pandemic is far from over, but this step is a move toward managing COVID-19 as an endemic disease. The responsibility of protecting yourself and others belongs to all of us."

People who are positive for COVID-19 will now be responsible for letting their close contacts know about their potential exposure. Additionally, if the individual with COVID-19 exposed others at high-risk settings such as schools, correctional facilities, long-term care facilities, homeless shelters, daycares, and churches, KDHE will notify the setting. The setting will be responsible for identifying close contacts and notifying them about the potential exposure.

As of February 1st, 2022, the Geary County Health Department and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) will no longer conduct COVID-19 contact outreach and monitoring, otherwise known as contact tracing.Contact tracing is when Public Health notifies close contacts to let them know that they were exposed to an infectious disease and tells them about the signs and symptoms to watch out for. Participation in contact tracing has always been voluntary. The decision to end contact outreach and monitoring was made due to the surge in the amount of positive COVID-19 cases, and the public's willingness to participate has diminished since the beginning of the pandemic."As we enter the third year of this pandemic, public health has to begin to adjust the level of response to help alleviate the strain on the Public Health system," Janet Stanek, Acting Secretary, said. "The pandemic is far from over, but this step is a move toward managing COVID-19 as an endemic disease. The responsibility of protecting yourself and others belongs to all of us."People who are positive for COVID-19 will now be responsible for letting their close contacts know about their potential exposure. Additionally, if the individual with COVID-19 exposed others at high-risk settings such as schools, correctional facilities, long-term care facilities, homeless shelters, daycares, and churches, KDHE will notify the setting. The setting will be responsible for identifying close contacts and notifying them about the potential exposure.

COVID-19 contact outreach will stop

According to a social media post from the Junction City Animal Shelter, that facility will be closed to the public due to staff illness. They will be doing return to owners and stray turn ins in a different manner and will be wearing masks/gloves IF they must interact. 

Help during this time by ensuring that your pets stay home and secure. If you are needing any assistance, please reach out VIA messenger or contact the JCPD non emergency line if it is a police matter.&nbsp;

According to a social media post from the Junction City Animal Shelter, that facility will be closed to the public due to staff illness. They will be doing return to owners and stray turn ins in a different manner and will be wearing masks/gloves IF they must interact. Help during this time by ensuring that your pets stay home and secure. If you are needing any assistance, please reach out VIA messenger or contact the JCPD non emergency line if it is a police matter.&nbsp;

Animal shelter will be temporarily closed to the public

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. Courtesy photo.

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. Courtesy photo.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643315645767.jpeg" alt="Kevin Carballo Negron, Aggravated battery, Intimidation of a witness or victim, Arrested 1/26" />
 <figcaption>Kevin Carballo Negron, Aggravated battery, Intimidation of a witness or victim, Arrested 1/26</figcaption>
 </figure>Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. Courtesy photo.

Geary County Booking Photo Thursday Jan. 27

Geary County Treasurer's Office Manager Sheri Childs has announced that there will be a retirement party for Kathy Tremont, celebrating her legacy of achievement. Tremont is retiring from the Geary County Treasurer's post effective Feb. 1, and this Friday will be her last day in the office.

The retirement party is scheduled from 1-4 p.m. Friday at the Geary County Office Building, 200 East 8th Street.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643314037397.jpeg" alt="Kathy Tremont" />
 <figcaption>Kathy Tremont</figcaption>
 </figure>Geary County Treasurer's Office Manager Sheri Childs has announced that there will be a retirement party for Kathy Tremont, celebrating her legacy of achievement. Tremont is retiring from the Geary County Treasurer's post effective Feb. 1, and this Friday will be her last day in the office.The retirement party is scheduled from 1-4 p.m. Friday at the Geary County Office Building, 200 East 8th Street.&nbsp;

Retirement party is set for the County Treasurer

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a&nbsp; burglary and have a suspect in custody.

Just before 11:30a.m. Wednesday, officers filed a report for burglary; possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant; possession of stolen property; and criminal damage to property in the 19,400 block of Peach Grove Road north of Randolph, according to the Riley County Police department activity report.

Officers responded to the scene after a report of a burglary in progress and located and arrested Brock Odell, 31, of Clay Center.

Odell who was also in possession of a stolen GMC Acadia out of Clay Center and drugs. 

A 58-year-old woman, a 50-year-old man and 60-year-old man are the victims, according to the RCPD.&nbsp; They were not on scene when the burglary occurred.&nbsp;

Odell is being held without bond on requested charges of&nbsp;Burglary; Non-dwelling to commit felony, theft or sexually motivated crime(2x) and  Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a&nbsp; burglary and have a suspect in custody.Just before 11:30a.m. Wednesday, officers filed a report for burglary; possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant; possession of stolen property; and criminal damage to property in the 19,400 block of Peach Grove Road north of Randolph, according to the Riley County Police department activity report.Officers responded to the scene after a report of a burglary in progress and located and arrested Brock Odell, 31, of Clay Center.Odell who was also in possession of a stolen GMC Acadia out of Clay Center and drugs. A 58-year-old woman, a 50-year-old man and 60-year-old man are the victims, according to the RCPD.&nbsp; They were not on scene when the burglary occurred.&nbsp;Odell is being held without bond on requested charges of&nbsp;Burglary; Non-dwelling to commit felony, theft or sexually motivated crime(2x) and Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant.

RCPD: Suspect in stolen SUV captured during rural burglary

Army officials have announced that the Fort Riley Tax Assistance Center, 7034 Bullard St., has opened for business and will remain open through April 15. The center, part of the 1st Infantry Division’s Staff Judge Advocate office, provides free tax preparation assistance to military members, including active duty, eligible family members, military reservists on orders for more than 30 days, and military retirees.

Due to COVID-19 mitigation efforts, the tax center will operate as a drop-off service with no appointments.

According to Elizabeth Thurston, Tax Center Director, “We’re trying to minimize the amount of time that we’re with a client. We anticipate that being no more than 10 -15 minutes and the same goes for when they come back in to sign and review their return.”

After dropping off their tax documents, clients can expect to hear back from the tax center within three working days.

The tax center is open at 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. They will accept the last walk-ins at 5 p.m. The tax center will be closed on training holidays and Federal holidays. All tax preparers are IRS certified, trained and up-to-date on current tax rules. The staff can prepare and e-file both Federal and state returns.

Thurston added, “I do want to emphasize that every tax return that is prepared by the Fort Riley tax center is quality-reviewed by either an attorney or a CPA. Nothing leaves our office without it having a second set of eyes by a tax professional before we send it to the IRS.”

Army officials have announced that the Fort Riley Tax Assistance Center, 7034 Bullard St., has opened for business and will remain open through April 15. The center, part of the 1st Infantry Division’s Staff Judge Advocate office, provides free tax preparation assistance to military members, including active duty, eligible family members, military reservists on orders for more than 30 days, and military retirees.Due to COVID-19 mitigation efforts, the tax center will operate as a drop-off service with no appointments.According to Elizabeth Thurston, Tax Center Director, “We’re trying to minimize the amount of time that we’re with a client. We anticipate that being no more than 10 -15 minutes and the same goes for when they come back in to sign and review their return.”After dropping off their tax documents, clients can expect to hear back from the tax center within three working days.The tax center is open at 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. They will accept the last walk-ins at 5 p.m. The tax center will be closed on training holidays and Federal holidays. All tax preparers are IRS certified, trained and up-to-date on current tax rules. The staff can prepare and e-file both Federal and state returns.Thurston added, “I do want to emphasize that every tax return that is prepared by the Fort Riley tax center is quality-reviewed by either an attorney or a CPA. Nothing leaves our office without it having a second set of eyes by a tax professional before we send it to the IRS.”

Fort Riley Tax Center opens for the tax season

Junction City police have identified the two victims in the fatal shooting case on Wednesday. They were Blake McCoy, 26, Junction City and Jeremy John Brown, 42, a resident of Pottawatomie County.&nbsp;

The investigation in the case is still active.&nbsp;

On Wednesday at approximately 12:34 p.m. the Junction City Police Department was dispatched to the 600 block of West Vine Street for a man with an suspected gunshot wound. Upon arrival, officers located two white men with gunshot wounds. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. 

The first victim was 26 years old and was a resident of Junction City. The second victim was 42 years old and was a resident of Pottawatomie County.

Police said that their preliminary investigation suggests that these men&nbsp; knew each other and there is no ongoing threat to the community. No further information about the identity of the two individuals will be released until the next of kin has been notified. 

This is an active and ongoing investigation, if you have any information about this incident please contact the Junction City Police Department by calling (785) 762-5912 or Geary County Crime Stoppers (785) 762-8477.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643302055217.png" alt="Police located the victims in the 600 Block of West Vine Street- photo by Beck Goff courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police located the victims in the 600 Block of West Vine Street- photo by Beck Goff courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>Junction City police have identified the two victims in the fatal shooting case on Wednesday. They were Blake McCoy, 26, Junction City and Jeremy John Brown, 42, a resident of Pottawatomie County.&nbsp;The investigation in the case is still active.&nbsp;---On Wednesday at approximately 12:34 p.m. the Junction City Police Department was dispatched to the 600 block of West Vine Street for a man with an suspected gunshot wound. Upon arrival, officers located two white men with gunshot wounds. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. The first victim was 26 years old and was a resident of Junction City. The second victim was 42 years old and was a resident of Pottawatomie County.Police said that their preliminary investigation suggests that these men&nbsp; knew each other and there is no ongoing threat to the community. No further information about the identity of the two individuals will be released until the next of kin has been notified. This is an active and ongoing investigation, if you have any information about this incident please contact the Junction City Police Department by calling (785) 762-5912 or Geary County Crime Stoppers (785) 762-8477.

Junction City police are investigating a double homicide

Geary County Commission Chair Alex Tyson announced Wednesday that the governing body is looking forward to working with the new Interim CEO at Geary Community Hospital, Margaret Grismer, and the Board of Trustees to find a new path for the hospital. GCH is facing financial challenges.

Commissioners met in executive session Wednesday to discuss hospital but took no action after it ended. The&nbsp; Trustees have decided to&nbsp; close the intensive care unit at GCH at the end of the month, but the governing body is hopeful that the intensive care unit at Geary Community will be brought back at some point in the future.

Tyson said the commission also stands by the decision to close the ICU. He added an intensive care unit is needed by they understand the closure "at this time." The County Chair noted that staffing issues have placed a burden on Geary Community. "Let us try to find a clear path and at some point in time we can get the ICU back up and running."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643237604909.png" alt="Margaret Grismer" />
 <figcaption>Margaret Grismer</figcaption>
 </figure>Geary County Commission Chair Alex Tyson announced Wednesday that the governing body is looking forward to working with the new Interim CEO at Geary Community Hospital, Margaret Grismer, and the Board of Trustees to find a new path for the hospital. GCH is facing financial challenges.Commissioners met in executive session Wednesday to discuss hospital but took no action after it ended. The&nbsp; Trustees have decided to&nbsp; close the intensive care unit at GCH at the end of the month, but the governing body is hopeful that the intensive care unit at Geary Community will be brought back at some point in the future.Tyson said the commission also stands by the decision to close the ICU. He added an intensive care unit is needed by they understand the closure "at this time." The County Chair noted that staffing issues have placed a burden on Geary Community. "Let us try to find a clear path and at some point in time we can get the ICU back up and running."

Commissioners look forward to working with new Hospital Interim CEO

&nbsp;Two additional Riley County residents have died after testing positive for COVID-19. According to the Health Department a 75 year-old man, fully vaccinated and boosted, tested positive January 14 and passed away at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan on January 24. A 70 year-old man, unvaccinated, tested positive January 2 and died at the hospital on January 25.&nbsp; Ascension Via Christi is currently caring for 11 COVID-19 positive patients. Four patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and one is on a ventilator.&nbsp; Riley County has identified 898 new COVID cases and 973 additional recoveries since the last report on January 19. There are currently 979 active cases in Riley County, which represents a decrease of 77 active cases since last week. The two-week rolling percent positivity rate climbed to 24.06% from 22.52% for the current period. “New variants are on the horizon and the virus will likely be part of our lives for a long time to come,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “The best advice I can give is to get vaccinated, follow your doctor’s recommendations, and take good care of your health. Do not put off medical care and treatment you would normally seek. Get plenty of sleep, exercise, eat well, and take the steps medical providers recommend so you can keep your body healthy.” RCHD will continue to provide COVID and flu vaccines by appointment. Please call (785) 565-6560 to schedule a vaccine. Health department nurses are also available to offer COVID and flu vaccine clinics on-site in collaboration with businesses, organization managers, or owners. Last week, RCHD hosted a vaccine clinic at Manhattan Town Center, providing 60 individuals with first, second, or booster doses. This week, staff are visiting the Ogden Community Center, Manhattan High School, and Riley County Offices to host vaccine clinics. A total of 30 vaccines were provided at the Ogden Community Center on Monday. To schedule a clinic, please contact Sheyenne at (785) 776-4779 ext. 7691. The KDHE testing site at Manhattan Town Center was closed January 25 because of the extreme cold, but is open today. RCHD is working in partnership with KDHE to secure an indoor space that can be used on a regular basis when winter weather prevents outdoor testing.&nbsp; “Testing has been in high demand, as you’re all aware, and home tests are becoming a more popular alternative to waiting for results,” said Gibbs. “We have been working with KDHE to develop a survey that allows people to report the results of their at-home tests. It’s a way to help our medical community get a better picture of the situation in Riley County. Reporting at-home test results is entirely voluntary and we ask that people report both positive and negative results using our secure online form.”&nbsp; Report at-home COVID test results online at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=705d80e926&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.rileycountyks.gov/ReportResults</a>. Contact tracing will not be conducted on any of the test results reported. Information submitted by residents will be stored on a secured database that is HIPAA protected. Statistics for at-home test results will not be added to the weekly report at this time. As a reminder, every home in the US can request a maximum of four at-home tests. Orders are expected to ship within 7-12 days. Order tests online at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=a8021e8f7d&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.covidtests.gov</a>&nbsp;or by calling 1-800-232-0233.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;Two additional Riley County residents have died after testing positive for COVID-19. According to the Health Department a 75 year-old man, fully vaccinated and boosted, tested positive January 14 and passed away at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan on January 24. A 70 year-old man, unvaccinated, tested positive January 2 and died at the hospital on January 25.&nbsp; Ascension Via Christi is currently caring for 11 COVID-19 positive patients. Four patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and one is on a ventilator.&nbsp; Riley County has identified 898 new COVID cases and 973 additional recoveries since the last report on January 19. There are currently 979 active cases in Riley County, which represents a decrease of 77 active cases since last week. The two-week rolling percent positivity rate climbed to 24.06% from 22.52% for the current period. “New variants are on the horizon and the virus will likely be part of our lives for a long time to come,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “The best advice I can give is to get vaccinated, follow your doctor’s recommendations, and take good care of your health. Do not put off medical care and treatment you would normally seek. Get plenty of sleep, exercise, eat well, and take the steps medical providers recommend so you can keep your body healthy.” RCHD will continue to provide COVID and flu vaccines by appointment. Please call (785) 565-6560 to schedule a vaccine. Health department nurses are also available to offer COVID and flu vaccine clinics on-site in collaboration with businesses, organization managers, or owners. Last week, RCHD hosted a vaccine clinic at Manhattan Town Center, providing 60 individuals with first, second, or booster doses. This week, staff are visiting the Ogden Community Center, Manhattan High School, and Riley County Offices to host vaccine clinics. A total of 30 vaccines were provided at the Ogden Community Center on Monday. To schedule a clinic, please contact Sheyenne at (785) 776-4779 ext. 7691. The KDHE testing site at Manhattan Town Center was closed January 25 because of the extreme cold, but is open today. RCHD is working in partnership with KDHE to secure an indoor space that can be used on a regular basis when winter weather prevents outdoor testing.&nbsp; “Testing has been in high demand, as you’re all aware, and home tests are becoming a more popular alternative to waiting for results,” said Gibbs. “We have been working with KDHE to develop a survey that allows people to report the results of their at-home tests. It’s a way to help our medical community get a better picture of the situation in Riley County. Reporting at-home test results is entirely voluntary and we ask that people report both positive and negative results using our secure online form.”&nbsp; Report at-home COVID test results online at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=705d80e926&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.rileycountyks.gov/ReportResults</a>. Contact tracing will not be conducted on any of the test results reported. Information submitted by residents will be stored on a secured database that is HIPAA protected. Statistics for at-home test results will not be added to the weekly report at this time. As a reminder, every home in the US can request a maximum of four at-home tests. Orders are expected to ship within 7-12 days. Order tests online at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=a8021e8f7d&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.covidtests.gov</a>&nbsp;or by calling 1-800-232-0233.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Two deaths and 898 new COVID-19 cases are reported in Riley County

The Junction City Juneteenth Community Association is currently welcoming new members to its planning committee. Since 1993, the organization has sponsored community Juneteenth observances every year except 2020, a pandemic year. The Association also awards scholarships and sponsors country outings and history programs.

Officers and members place a high priority on efficient use of time: Therefore, meetings are always focused and well organized.&nbsp; If you would like to become a member, the committee will welcome you.

If interested, contact Committee Chair Valerie Guy at 785.375.3847 or Valerie.guy10@gmail.com

The Junction City Juneteenth Community Association is currently welcoming new members to its planning committee. Since 1993, the organization has sponsored community Juneteenth observances every year except 2020, a pandemic year. The Association also awards scholarships and sponsors country outings and history programs.Officers and members place a high priority on efficient use of time: Therefore, meetings are always focused and well organized.&nbsp; If you would like to become a member, the committee will welcome you.If interested, contact Committee Chair Valerie Guy at 785.375.3847 or Valerie.guy10@gmail.com

Juneteenth Community Association seeks new members

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney speaks with U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) about a variety of situations facing Kansas and the nation.

With the US Senate on break this week Senator Jerry Moran is
back in the area. He stops by to speak with his Post reporter Cristina Janney
to share some updates on this episode of the Post Podcast.

Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney&nbsp; 

What is brought you back home to the northwest part of the
state. 

This week well, it is great to be back home. Senate is out
of session this week, we worked through Martin Luther King, what was traditionally
a recess a time away from Washington DC because of the holiday. And instead
because of work that took place last week, we're away from Washington, DC this
week, gives me the opportunity to be out and about among Kansans. In western
Kansas, certainly paying attention to what's going on here. And one of the ways
I do that is today, yesterday was a visit with the with the Ness City Rotary
Club, getting their perspective on what's going on in NES County, a visit to
lacrosse High School to visit with a young student who's been chosen to be the
Senate youth program opportunity to go to Washington D.C. Oh, I think he has
the misfortune of it being a zoom program this year, and see what's going on in
lacrosse and rush county as well. And mostly just trying to make certain that
Kansans have the opportunity to tell me what's on their mind.

I know you also mentioned you're trying to put out a plea
for blood donation that that was a personal request from your own doctor there
in Plainville to, to put in people's minds that the Red Cross really needs
blood right now.

Earlier this week, I had a conversation with Dr. Sanchez,
one of the physicians in my hometown of Plainville. And the request was, could
I do anything to help encourage people to donate blood and I'm intending to do
so myself today. And just the the point he was making is that surgeries are
being denied because of lack of blood, and just again, encourage Kansans to be
the kind of people that we always are, and rise to the occasion when there's a
need in our community. I know that there's opportunities to do the blood drives
are taking place on certain days across western Kansas. But in Hayes, I think
it's an arc and it occurs most weekdays here in this community. So on behalf of
Dr. Sanchez, and, and his patients, and really all all of us here encouraged
people to donate blood.

Yes, that's so important. I'm planning on doing that myself.
I won't be eligible here for another week. But I do plan on doing that myself.
Let's turn a little bit to the job back in Washington. There's a lot of
interest going around on what is happening in the Ukraine right now. What is
your perspective on that?

You know, we have no choice me as a senator and all of us
really, as citizens of this country wish we could just deal with the local
issues to deal with the things that affect Kansans directly. But we have no
choice but to deal with the huge national international issues. And we are in a
significant circumstance with, with Putin and his desire to retake at least
portions of the Ukraine, which was part of the Soviet Union, but became an
independent state when the Soviet Union fell apart. And this is a test of
American resolve. And I certainly not interested to be discouraged if we had to
put American troops into another battle. But how we handle this is important.
And this really is a mission for NATO. And the challenges that it seems that
particularly Germany is not aligned with other NATO countries in the response.
And over time, I think European countries have become dependent upon Russian
energy, oil and natural gas, and it changes the way that they are willing to
take on Putin and Russia. My view is that we've got to make certain
particularly in light, I'm still angry about the way we came out of
Afghanistan. We were we were poorly prepared, we left people behind, we send a
message to the world that we're not reliable. And it's important for us to work
with our NATO allies to demonstrate to the world not only to protect the
freedoms and liberties as as they are, as we hope they become in Ukraine. But
to make certain that the rest of the world knows that the United States is a
reliable partner.

Also, you said that you were concerned about some legislation
that was being considered in terms of fossil fuel funding?

Absolutely. This is a this is not a piece of legislation.
It's the Biden administration and their policies. And here in oil producing
country. I'm not sure this has become a topic but it is an important one,
because there are not the votes in Congress to to outlaw energy companies to do
away with fossil fuels. This administration, the Biden administration is
looking for every opportunity to undermine the ability of an energy company to
exist. And one of the ways they're doing that is appointing people to the
regulatory organizations, the Federal Reserve Board the Office of Comptroller
of currency, the FDIC, the entities that regulate our banks and credit unions
and financial institutions. And the goal was to put people in place that will
insist that no, no loans would be against their regulations for loans to be
made to energy companies. It's a roundabout way of trying to diminish or
eliminate the role of that kind of energy in our country's economy. And while
we ought to do everything we can to make sure we have the cleanest environment
possible, how we do that, how practical we are, when we do it, and what the
economic consequences are. Look we're facing I would say that Americans,
perhaps greatest domestic concern, is inflation. And here we have an
administration that is doing things to reduce the availability of oil and
natural gas, increasing the price, as we've seen, at the pump, and natural gas,
ask a farmer about the cost of fertilizer, which is components of making
fertilizer or natural gas, these expensive increases are going to be very
damaging to the economy. And it's also so so hypocritical, so odd for President
Biden to call on Russia to increase its oil production, while he and his administration
do everything they can to reduce hours.

Yes, that could be very devastating to our local economy, if
oil companies were not able to take out loans. Do you have any comments about
the election legislation that has been considered in Congress?

Absolutely. That was why the Senate was in session last week
is because of that issue that legislation. First of all, I would say that the
there were not sufficient votes, it takes 60 votes to pass a piece of
legislation, including this election, this voting bill that was crafted solely
by Democrats. And in my view, the rules of the Senate which require 60 votes,
protect us protect, particularly as rural people, but protect the minority, not
necessarily Republicans or Democrats, but people who have different points of
view. And generally, that's those of us who come from rural places like Kansas.
And so the Democrats because they couldn't get 60 votes attempted to change the
rules. Unfortunately, two Democratic senators, Senator Manchin and Senator
cinema refused to go along. And so the Senate rules stay in place. And that is
a good thing for protecting us from a heavy handed urban and suburban Congress.
And really just protecting people who have ideas that are different than
perhaps the majority. So that was part of the debate last week. But the
underlying bill wants to nationalize the process by which people the rules
about how you vote become a national thing. The Constitution says the manner of
voting will be determined for congressional elections will be determined by
states. So constitutionally, this is a Kansas issue, not a Washington issue.
And when people can't get their way in Washington, DC, because states may be
doing something different. They want to change the law, change the rules,
ignore the Constitution and take over this this role. Every almost in every
circumstance, when Washington DC tries to solve a problem. It does so in a
heavy handed, broad based way that is often damaging to Kansas, we know how to
run our elections in Kansas, and we don't need some election board and in the
nation's capital determining how we do that.

Do you think that there's any concern nationwide about voter
suppression, though, coming from it and from individual states here,

Here's what I would say, is that I would never want to
support would never support the very much more straightforward would would
never support or would not encourage, in fact, would discourage any state from
trying to figure out ways to keep people from voting. If they're legally
entitled to vote, whatever their views are, whatever their political party is,
we want people to vote. And so we need to make certain that mean, people need
to make certain that in their own states, there's nothing going on that's designed
to discourage discriminate against people who may have a different idea may
belong to a different political party. We ought to be encouraging people to
vote as long as they're legally entitled to vote.

Okay. We've seen searches in COVID. Do you think that the
federal government is doing enough to address the latest surges in COVID, in
terms of testing and vaccination?

I am certainly encouraged people to be vaccinated and to and
I guess maybe I say this is talk to their physician, talk to the person who
took out their appendix deliver their baby and find out if vaccination is good
for them. Make that decision. I'm opposed to the mandate that comes from
Washington DC telling us we have to be vaccinated, but people ought to take responsibility.
If it's an appropriate opportunity for them then then personally, the federal
government has been provided Congress's provided millions and billions of
dollars to respond to COVID. And my view is that we are still woefully short of
meeting the things that need to happen in this country. Particular The
manufacturing and supply of pharmaceuticals and gas, gas masks gowns and
gloves, the things back at the beginning of the COVID of COVID, in which we
said, we're going to bring this stuff home, we're not going to wait on China,
their suppliers, and they're not dependable and they're our adversary. So my
view is that there's a lot of money that's out there to be spent. And we still
don't have the necessary domestic supply to fight COVID or any other pandemic
and is certainly there's a shortage and a long waiting line for people to be
tested which there many people are now interested in doing.

Do you think that the rollout of the new home tests that you
think that's going to be?

Christina I'm anxious to see what we’re gonna wait to have
to wait and see. I mean, it. It sounds good that you go to your computer and
you can get a test, but we've not seen it work yet.

<div><iframe title="Sen. Moran says situation in Ukraine ’a test of American resolve’" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=d2v3r-118d06f-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney speaks with U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) about a variety of situations facing Kansas and the nation.<h2>Transcript</h2>James Bell&nbsp; With the US Senate on break this week Senator Jerry Moran is
back in the area. He stops by to speak with his Post reporter Cristina Janney
to share some updates on this episode of the Post Podcast.Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney&nbsp; What is brought you back home to the northwest part of the
state. U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)This week well, it is great to be back home. Senate is out
of session this week, we worked through Martin Luther King, what was traditionally
a recess a time away from Washington DC because of the holiday. And instead
because of work that took place last week, we're away from Washington, DC this
week, gives me the opportunity to be out and about among Kansans. In western
Kansas, certainly paying attention to what's going on here. And one of the ways
I do that is today, yesterday was a visit with the with the Ness City Rotary
Club, getting their perspective on what's going on in NES County, a visit to
lacrosse High School to visit with a young student who's been chosen to be the
Senate youth program opportunity to go to Washington D.C. Oh, I think he has
the misfortune of it being a zoom program this year, and see what's going on in
lacrosse and rush county as well. And mostly just trying to make certain that
Kansans have the opportunity to tell me what's on their mind.Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney&nbsp; I know you also mentioned you're trying to put out a plea
for blood donation that that was a personal request from your own doctor there
in Plainville to, to put in people's minds that the Red Cross really needs
blood right now.U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)Earlier this week, I had a conversation with Dr. Sanchez,
one of the physicians in my hometown of Plainville. And the request was, could
I do anything to help encourage people to donate blood and I'm intending to do
so myself today. And just the the point he was making is that surgeries are
being denied because of lack of blood, and just again, encourage Kansans to be
the kind of people that we always are, and rise to the occasion when there's a
need in our community. I know that there's opportunities to do the blood drives
are taking place on certain days across western Kansas. But in Hayes, I think
it's an arc and it occurs most weekdays here in this community. So on behalf of
Dr. Sanchez, and, and his patients, and really all all of us here encouraged
people to donate blood.Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney&nbsp; Yes, that's so important. I'm planning on doing that myself.
I won't be eligible here for another week. But I do plan on doing that myself.
Let's turn a little bit to the job back in Washington. There's a lot of
interest going around on what is happening in the Ukraine right now. What is
your perspective on that?U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)You know, we have no choice me as a senator and all of us
really, as citizens of this country wish we could just deal with the local
issues to deal with the things that affect Kansans directly. But we have no
choice but to deal with the huge national international issues. And we are in a
significant circumstance with, with Putin and his desire to retake at least
portions of the Ukraine, which was part of the Soviet Union, but became an
independent state when the Soviet Union fell apart. And this is a test of
American resolve. And I certainly not interested to be discouraged if we had to
put American troops into another battle. But how we handle this is important.
And this really is a mission for NATO. And the challenges that it seems that
particularly Germany is not aligned with other NATO countries in the response.
And over time, I think European countries have become dependent upon Russian
energy, oil and natural gas, and it changes the way that they are willing to
take on Putin and Russia. My view is that we've got to make certain
particularly in light, I'm still angry about the way we came out of
Afghanistan. We were we were poorly prepared, we left people behind, we send a
message to the world that we're not reliable. And it's important for us to work
with our NATO allies to demonstrate to the world not only to protect the
freedoms and liberties as as they are, as we hope they become in Ukraine. But
to make certain that the rest of the world knows that the United States is a
reliable partner.Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney&nbsp; Also, you said that you were concerned about some legislation
that was being considered in terms of fossil fuel funding?U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)Absolutely. This is a this is not a piece of legislation.
It's the Biden administration and their policies. And here in oil producing
country. I'm not sure this has become a topic but it is an important one,
because there are not the votes in Congress to to outlaw energy companies to do
away with fossil fuels. This administration, the Biden administration is
looking for every opportunity to undermine the ability of an energy company to
exist. And one of the ways they're doing that is appointing people to the
regulatory organizations, the Federal Reserve Board the Office of Comptroller
of currency, the FDIC, the entities that regulate our banks and credit unions
and financial institutions. And the goal was to put people in place that will
insist that no, no loans would be against their regulations for loans to be
made to energy companies. It's a roundabout way of trying to diminish or
eliminate the role of that kind of energy in our country's economy. And while
we ought to do everything we can to make sure we have the cleanest environment
possible, how we do that, how practical we are, when we do it, and what the
economic consequences are. Look we're facing I would say that Americans,
perhaps greatest domestic concern, is inflation. And here we have an
administration that is doing things to reduce the availability of oil and
natural gas, increasing the price, as we've seen, at the pump, and natural gas,
ask a farmer about the cost of fertilizer, which is components of making
fertilizer or natural gas, these expensive increases are going to be very
damaging to the economy. And it's also so so hypocritical, so odd for President
Biden to call on Russia to increase its oil production, while he and his administration
do everything they can to reduce hours.Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney&nbsp; Yes, that could be very devastating to our local economy, if
oil companies were not able to take out loans. Do you have any comments about
the election legislation that has been considered in Congress?U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)Absolutely. That was why the Senate was in session last week
is because of that issue that legislation. First of all, I would say that the
there were not sufficient votes, it takes 60 votes to pass a piece of
legislation, including this election, this voting bill that was crafted solely
by Democrats. And in my view, the rules of the Senate which require 60 votes,
protect us protect, particularly as rural people, but protect the minority, not
necessarily Republicans or Democrats, but people who have different points of
view. And generally, that's those of us who come from rural places like Kansas.
And so the Democrats because they couldn't get 60 votes attempted to change the
rules. Unfortunately, two Democratic senators, Senator Manchin and Senator
cinema refused to go along. And so the Senate rules stay in place. And that is
a good thing for protecting us from a heavy handed urban and suburban Congress.
And really just protecting people who have ideas that are different than
perhaps the majority. So that was part of the debate last week. But the
underlying bill wants to nationalize the process by which people the rules
about how you vote become a national thing. The Constitution says the manner of
voting will be determined for congressional elections will be determined by
states. So constitutionally, this is a Kansas issue, not a Washington issue.
And when people can't get their way in Washington, DC, because states may be
doing something different. They want to change the law, change the rules,
ignore the Constitution and take over this this role. Every almost in every
circumstance, when Washington DC tries to solve a problem. It does so in a
heavy handed, broad based way that is often damaging to Kansas, we know how to
run our elections in Kansas, and we don't need some election board and in the
nation's capital determining how we do that.Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney&nbsp; Do you think that there's any concern nationwide about voter
suppression, though, coming from it and from individual states here,U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)Here's what I would say, is that I would never want to
support would never support the very much more straightforward would would
never support or would not encourage, in fact, would discourage any state from
trying to figure out ways to keep people from voting. If they're legally
entitled to vote, whatever their views are, whatever their political party is,
we want people to vote. And so we need to make certain that mean, people need
to make certain that in their own states, there's nothing going on that's designed
to discourage discriminate against people who may have a different idea may
belong to a different political party. We ought to be encouraging people to
vote as long as they're legally entitled to vote.Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney&nbsp; Okay. We've seen searches in COVID. Do you think that the
federal government is doing enough to address the latest surges in COVID, in
terms of testing and vaccination?U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)I am certainly encouraged people to be vaccinated and to and
I guess maybe I say this is talk to their physician, talk to the person who
took out their appendix deliver their baby and find out if vaccination is good
for them. Make that decision. I'm opposed to the mandate that comes from
Washington DC telling us we have to be vaccinated, but people ought to take responsibility.
If it's an appropriate opportunity for them then then personally, the federal
government has been provided Congress's provided millions and billions of
dollars to respond to COVID. And my view is that we are still woefully short of
meeting the things that need to happen in this country. Particular The
manufacturing and supply of pharmaceuticals and gas, gas masks gowns and
gloves, the things back at the beginning of the COVID of COVID, in which we
said, we're going to bring this stuff home, we're not going to wait on China,
their suppliers, and they're not dependable and they're our adversary. So my
view is that there's a lot of money that's out there to be spent. And we still
don't have the necessary domestic supply to fight COVID or any other pandemic
and is certainly there's a shortage and a long waiting line for people to be
tested which there many people are now interested in doing.Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney&nbsp; Do you think that the rollout of the new home tests that you
think that's going to be?U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)Christina I'm anxious to see what we’re gonna wait to have
to wait and see. I mean, it. It sounds good that you go to your computer and
you can get a test, but we've not seen it work yet.

🎙Post Podcast: Sen. Moran says situation in Ukraine 'a test of American resolve'

Geary Community Hospital Trustees met Tuesday in executive session where there was discussion about the hospital's intensive care unit. Following the closed door session they took no action on that issue.

In a news release from GCH, the Board of Trustees still stood firm on their decision to close the ICU, effective Feb. 1.

Geary Community Hospital Trustees met Tuesday in executive session where there was discussion about the hospital's intensive care unit. Following the closed door session they took no action on that issue.In a news release from GCH, the Board of Trustees still stood firm on their decision to close the ICU, effective Feb. 1.

Trustees stand firm on their ICU decision

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged gunfire directed at a home in Ogden.

Juste before 7p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for criminal damage to property and criminal discharge of a weapon in the 200 block of Seventh St. in Ogden, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. 

A 78-year-old man reported an unknown suspect shot multiple rounds from a gun, hitting the victim's home. No injuries were reported. 

Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged gunfire directed at a home in Ogden.Juste before 7p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for criminal damage to property and criminal discharge of a weapon in the 200 block of Seventh St. in Ogden, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. A 78-year-old man reported an unknown suspect shot multiple rounds from a gun, hitting the victim's home. No injuries were reported. Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: Gunshots damaged home in Ogden

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s “Celebration of Optimism” held Wednesday at the Hampton Inn. Marcie Fiorentino, Junction City High School Freshman Success Academy Principal, was officially inducted into the JC Breakfast Optimist Club by Dana Wiegand.

Donna Price, Director of the Geary County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau (CVB) was the guest speaker. Donna told members she had worked in Goodland, Kansas and later Lincoln and Alliance, Nebraska in the newspaper business. When she returned to Goodland, Donna served as the CVB Director for 19 years.

“When the position became open in Geary County, I was encouraged to apply, was hired and began work last October. I love it. The County Commissioners dissolved the previous Board of Directors, and we are in the process of rebuilding that board. I enjoy working with a Board that brings different ideas and suggests different initiatives”, she said.

Donna also stated that “We have a lot of history here. I want to tell people about the wildlife for photographing and hunting; the Freedom Frontier; access from I-70; small and medium sized business opportunities among other things. It is important that the CVB, Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development Commission, Mainstreet Project and all of us work together to promote this area. Working together is important.”

When asked what she perceives as the biggest drawback to progress in Geary County, Donna said she believes “it is in finding ways to work together. There is divisiveness right now.”

Other guests at “Celebration of Optimism” were Brad Carlton and Ron Johnson. The JC Breakfast Optimist Club meets every Wednesday at 6:30 AM at the Hampton Inn on South Washington Street in Junction City. Guests receive a free breakfast buffet when they attend the first time.

By Dr. Ferrell MillerThe JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s “Celebration of Optimism” held Wednesday at the Hampton Inn. Marcie Fiorentino, Junction City High School Freshman Success Academy Principal, was officially inducted into the JC Breakfast Optimist Club by Dana Wiegand.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643213307903.jpeg" alt="( L-R ) Dana Wiegand and Marcie Florentino" />
 <figcaption>( L-R ) Dana Wiegand and Marcie Florentino</figcaption>
 </figure>Donna Price, Director of the Geary County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau (CVB) was the guest speaker. Donna told members she had worked in Goodland, Kansas and later Lincoln and Alliance, Nebraska in the newspaper business. When she returned to Goodland, Donna served as the CVB Director for 19 years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643213144998.jpeg" alt="( L-R ) Don Manley and Donna Price" />
 <figcaption>( L-R ) Don Manley and Donna Price</figcaption>
 </figure>“When the position became open in Geary County, I was encouraged to apply, was hired and began work last October. I love it. The County Commissioners dissolved the previous Board of Directors, and we are in the process of rebuilding that board. I enjoy working with a Board that brings different ideas and suggests different initiatives”, she said.Donna also stated that “We have a lot of history here. I want to tell people about the wildlife for photographing and hunting; the Freedom Frontier; access from I-70; small and medium sized business opportunities among other things. It is important that the CVB, Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development Commission, Mainstreet Project and all of us work together to promote this area. Working together is important.”When asked what she perceives as the biggest drawback to progress in Geary County, Donna said she believes “it is in finding ways to work together. There is divisiveness right now.”Other guests at “Celebration of Optimism” were Brad Carlton and Ron Johnson. The JC Breakfast Optimist Club meets every Wednesday at 6:30 AM at the Hampton Inn on South Washington Street in Junction City. Guests receive a free breakfast buffet when they attend the first time.

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club Celebrated Optimism Guest Speaker Was Donna Price

By KEN CARPENTER Great Bend Post

Junction City High School Athletic Director Matt Westerhaus has been hired as the new activities director at Great Bend High School replacing David Meter who is retiring at the end of this school year. His appointment was approved Tuesday by the Great Bend Board of Education at their monthly luncheon held this month at Park Elementary School. &nbsp;

Westerhaus said he was pleased to be selected for the position.&nbsp;

"I know David so I kind of knew that he was going to retire,” Westerhaus commented. “I had it on the back of my mind, and when it came open, had a conversation with my wife and decided to go for it. And here we are.”&nbsp;

Westerhaus will officially take over the job on Aug. 1, 2022. He is a native of Junction City and played basketball for Junction City High School. He also played basketball at Benedictine College in Atchison where he graduated in 1995. &nbsp;

Westerhaus and his wife, Gretchen, met with members of the school board before his selection was announced. They have two children.&nbsp;

Meter served as the high school's activities director since 2000.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643201576532.jpeg" alt="( Photo - Great Bend Post - Matt Westerhaus )" />
 <figcaption>( Photo - Great Bend Post - Matt Westerhaus )</figcaption>
 </figure>By KEN CARPENTER Great Bend PostJunction City High School Athletic Director Matt Westerhaus has been hired as the new activities director at Great Bend High School replacing David Meter who is retiring at the end of this school year. His appointment was approved Tuesday by the Great Bend Board of Education at their monthly luncheon held this month at Park Elementary School. &nbsp;Westerhaus said he was pleased to be selected for the position.&nbsp;"I know David so I kind of knew that he was going to retire,” Westerhaus commented. “I had it on the back of my mind, and when it came open, had a conversation with my wife and decided to go for it. And here we are.”&nbsp;Westerhaus will officially take over the job on Aug. 1, 2022. He is a native of Junction City and played basketball for Junction City High School. He also played basketball at Benedictine College in Atchison where he graduated in 1995. &nbsp;Westerhaus and his wife, Gretchen, met with members of the school board before his selection was announced. They have two children.&nbsp;Meter served as the high school's activities director since 2000.&nbsp;

Matt Westerhaus is moving to Great Bend

The Junction City Blue Jays lost to the Topeka West Chargers at Topeka West High School in overtime, 67 - 66.&nbsp; Junction City falls to 8 - 3, Topeka West is now 11 -1.

The Junction City Blue Jays lost to the Topeka West Chargers at Topeka West High School in overtime, 67 - 66.&nbsp; Junction City falls to 8 - 3, Topeka West is now 11 -1.

Junction City Falls to Topeka West

Geary Community Hospital Interim CEO and Chief Financial Officer Wade Weis is leaving GCH. He will become the chief executive officer for Buchanan County Hospital in Iowa. Weis, who was employed by Community Hospital Corporation at GCH will step down Feb. 18th.&nbsp;

Margaret Grismer, Derby, KS will become the new Interim CEO, pending the signing of a CHC Transition Agreement. Her hiring was approved by the Hospital Board of Trustees. Grismer has experience in healthcare administration in Hillsboro, Kiowa and in Leavenworth with the Federal Bureau of Prisons. She is also a retired nurse and Navy veteran.&nbsp;

Also, the Director of Human Resources and External Relations at Geary Community, L.J. Baker will resign effective Feb. 18th. Both Weis and Baker were recognized during the Board of Trustees meeting for their service to Geary Community Hospital.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643148565271.png" alt="Margaret Grismer has been approved to serve as the Interim CEO of Geary Community Hospital pending the signing of a CHC Transition Agreement." />
 <figcaption>Margaret Grismer has been approved to serve as the Interim CEO of Geary Community Hospital pending the signing of a CHC Transition Agreement.</figcaption>
 </figure>Geary Community Hospital Interim CEO and Chief Financial Officer Wade Weis is leaving GCH. He will become the chief executive officer for Buchanan County Hospital in Iowa. Weis, who was employed by Community Hospital Corporation at GCH will step down Feb. 18th.&nbsp;Margaret Grismer, Derby, KS will become the new Interim CEO, pending the signing of a CHC Transition Agreement. Her hiring was approved by the Hospital Board of Trustees. Grismer has experience in healthcare administration in Hillsboro, Kiowa and in Leavenworth with the Federal Bureau of Prisons. She is also a retired nurse and Navy veteran.&nbsp;Also, the Director of Human Resources and External Relations at Geary Community, L.J. Baker will resign effective Feb. 18th. Both Weis and Baker were recognized during the Board of Trustees meeting for their service to Geary Community Hospital.&nbsp;

Leadership changes announced for Hospital staff

Please join USD 475 for a Zoom meeting to discuss the importance of attendance and how to handle it during a world-wide pandemic. The Zoom meeting will take place on Thursday, January 27, at 6 p.m. 

Here's the Zoom link: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fusd475.zoom.us%2Fj%2F86285706487%3Fpwd%3DazI4eW15VHNqZi9wOTlFelBid3NXUT09%26fbclid%3DIwAR0yAVvDxiNC5ayJ_An8ygBwzzwIQvjcvmHISyypIxXyuakGvWet9i9A8JY&amp;h=AT1xrU0ypXm0TCR7UyRLrIr_J1wB_L3Wtfc-11cVzsM1K0NqfmR74kOiVz9-pravSUTyOT1HBCFyNuoK9SFd9bd3KdlPgaNsGl6mc_vgTelNpNEoutOWbJ4L2JWQgy2VVmw5&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT2S6rComiOhNiczCUxBrPWWSQstfSzDoi18k5sm_2DjgkvQ5Fubx69NnP-u3spS-KEXCEsewryxTITjjh9yYX1BQ5HLcJ34WrI3jMwezvVN1RF8ZxOfM52sa5CS_VV9oaWXNUKFYzoZ29w5eYOOjmwP6GL4eRQuasJhorKsHw95IGQ" target="_blank">https://usd475.zoom.us/j/86285706487...</a>

Please join USD 475 for a Zoom meeting to discuss the importance of attendance and how to handle it during a world-wide pandemic. The Zoom meeting will take place on Thursday, January 27, at 6 p.m. Here's the Zoom link: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fusd475.zoom.us%2Fj%2F86285706487%3Fpwd%3DazI4eW15VHNqZi9wOTlFelBid3NXUT09%26fbclid%3DIwAR0yAVvDxiNC5ayJ_An8ygBwzzwIQvjcvmHISyypIxXyuakGvWet9i9A8JY&amp;h=AT1xrU0ypXm0TCR7UyRLrIr_J1wB_L3Wtfc-11cVzsM1K0NqfmR74kOiVz9-pravSUTyOT1HBCFyNuoK9SFd9bd3KdlPgaNsGl6mc_vgTelNpNEoutOWbJ4L2JWQgy2VVmw5&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT2S6rComiOhNiczCUxBrPWWSQstfSzDoi18k5sm_2DjgkvQ5Fubx69NnP-u3spS-KEXCEsewryxTITjjh9yYX1BQ5HLcJ34WrI3jMwezvVN1RF8ZxOfM52sa5CS_VV9oaWXNUKFYzoZ29w5eYOOjmwP6GL4eRQuasJhorKsHw95IGQ" target="_blank">https://usd475.zoom.us/j/86285706487...</a>

Navigating attendance amid COVID-19

&nbsp; Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce will host their 2022 Annual Dinner Thursday, March 10th. You can submit a nomination for one of&nbsp; the Chamber awards.&nbsp; Send then a nomination form by 5 PM Friday, February 4th.You can download the form here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.junctioncitychamber.org/uploads/1/2/3/8/123833548/2022_ad_award_nomination_form_fillable.pdf?fbclid=IwAR1x8UQ43rZHT7SuzQWgnxkIcLBEIyWB94PaQ_V_11IFvTsyuaqFsy5Qb7k" target="_blank">https://www.junctioncitychamber.org/.../2022_ad_award...</a>

&nbsp; Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce will host their 2022 Annual Dinner Thursday, March 10th. You can submit a nomination for one of&nbsp; the Chamber awards.&nbsp; Send then a nomination form by 5 PM Friday, February 4th.You can download the form here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.junctioncitychamber.org/uploads/1/2/3/8/123833548/2022_ad_award_nomination_form_fillable.pdf?fbclid=IwAR1x8UQ43rZHT7SuzQWgnxkIcLBEIyWB94PaQ_V_11IFvTsyuaqFsy5Qb7k" target="_blank">https://www.junctioncitychamber.org/.../2022_ad_award...</a>

Nominations are sought for Chamber of Commerce awards

Geary County Interim Health Department Director Charles Martinez said this week that the county ranks third among Kansas counties for COVID-19 vaccinations. Martinez informed the county commission he thought Geary County had reached the peak of the Omicron variant and numbers are already down. "There's light at the end of the tunnel."

There have been staff shortages but people are returning to work.&nbsp;

Geary County Interim Health Department Director Charles Martinez said this week that the county ranks third among Kansas counties for COVID-19 vaccinations. Martinez informed the county commission he thought Geary County had reached the peak of the Omicron variant and numbers are already down. "There's light at the end of the tunnel."There have been staff shortages but people are returning to work.&nbsp;

Geary County ranks third in COVID-19 vaccination rate

MANHATTAN, Kan. -- The&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansas4-h.org/" target="_blank">Kansas 4-H program</a>&nbsp;and the state’s Department of Education are introducing an internship program for adults this summer to support Kansas youth that one official says will “spark an interest in science, technology, engineering and extension work.” &nbsp;

“We’ll be doing lots of STEM and natural resource programming, as well as direct career and college readiness programing,” said Shane Potter, a youth development specialist with the Kansas 4-H program.&nbsp;

Potter said the strong infrastructure of Kansas 4-H will help adults network with professionals and engage with communities during the 12-week summer internship.&nbsp;

Interns will have a unique opportunity to help youth further their learning outside the classroom. “The summer program will directly seek to address learning loss as a result of loss of instructional time,” Potter said. “This is not only an opportunity for youth to have more direct education, but also to find what inspires them through 4-H project activities.&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. -- The&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansas4-h.org/" target="_blank">Kansas 4-H program</a>&nbsp;and the state’s Department of Education are introducing an internship program for adults this summer to support Kansas youth that one official says will “spark an interest in science, technology, engineering and extension work.” &nbsp;“We’ll be doing lots of STEM and natural resource programming, as well as direct career and college readiness programing,” said Shane Potter, a youth development specialist with the Kansas 4-H program.&nbsp;Potter said the strong infrastructure of Kansas 4-H will help adults network with professionals and engage with communities during the 12-week summer internship.&nbsp;Interns will have a unique opportunity to help youth further their learning outside the classroom. “The summer program will directly seek to address learning loss as a result of loss of instructional time,” Potter said. “This is not only an opportunity for youth to have more direct education, but also to find what inspires them through 4-H project activities.&nbsp;

Adults urged to apply for internship to help youth discover their ‘spark’  

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a reported theft in Manhattan.

Just after 7a.m. Monday, officers filed a report for theft in the 700 block of Highland Ridge Drive in Manhattan on January 24, 2022, around 7:10 a.m.&nbsp;

A 24-year-old man reported an unknown suspect stole his white 2006 Nissan Altima with the keys and a wallet left inside. Financial cards in the wallet were later used by the unknown suspect. 

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $2,670. The car was later located by Ft. Riley Police on Vintage School Rd. and returned to the owner. Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a reported theft in Manhattan.Just after 7a.m. Monday, officers filed a report for theft in the 700 block of Highland Ridge Drive in Manhattan on January 24, 2022, around 7:10 a.m.&nbsp;A 24-year-old man reported an unknown suspect stole his white 2006 Nissan Altima with the keys and a wallet left inside. Financial cards in the wallet were later used by the unknown suspect. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $2,670. The car was later located by Ft. Riley Police on Vintage School Rd. and returned to the owner. Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: Suspect stole car, used owners financial cards

RILEY COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just before 9:30a.m. Monday in Riley County.

A 2009 Chevrolet Impala driven by by 54-year-old John Hanson of Riley was traveling in&nbsp;the 6700 block of Anderson Avenue, according to the Riley County Police Department Activity Report.

The driver fell asleep and the car traveled into a corn field. EMS transported Hanson to Via Christi for treatment of lower back pain.

RILEY COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just before 9:30a.m. Monday in Riley County.A 2009 Chevrolet Impala driven by by 54-year-old John Hanson of Riley was traveling in&nbsp;the 6700 block of Anderson Avenue, according to the Riley County Police Department Activity Report.The driver fell asleep and the car traveled into a corn field. EMS transported Hanson to Via Christi for treatment of lower back pain.