All Geary County Offices, will be closed on Monday, January 17th in observance of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday. County clerk Rebecca Nordyke said regular hours will resume Tuesday, January 18th. 

All Geary County Offices, will be closed on Monday, January 17th in observance of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday. County clerk Rebecca Nordyke said regular hours will resume Tuesday, January 18th.

County offices will be closed Monday

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — A 31-year-old Manhattan man has been convicted of first-degree murder in a fatal shooting during an attempted robbery. A Riley County jury also found Richard Goens guilty Wednesday of five other counts stemming from the November 2019 death of 24-year-old Tanner Zamecnik, of Manhattan. 

Prosecutors argued that Goens shot Zamecnik while he and three others were robbing him of drugs and cash. They said the suspects met Zamecnik after saying they wanted to buy marijuana from him. 

Goens will be sentenced March 3. Two of the other suspects pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. The fourth man awaits trial on a first-degree murder charge.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642097305035.png" alt="First responders on the scene of the fatal 2019 shooting photo courtesy WIBW-TV" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene of the fatal 2019 shooting photo courtesy WIBW-TV</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — A 31-year-old Manhattan man has been convicted of first-degree murder in a fatal shooting during an attempted robbery. A Riley County jury also found Richard Goens guilty Wednesday of five other counts stemming from the November 2019 death of 24-year-old Tanner Zamecnik, of Manhattan. Prosecutors argued that Goens shot Zamecnik while he and three others were robbing him of drugs and cash. They said the suspects met Zamecnik after saying they wanted to buy marijuana from him. Goens will be sentenced March 3. Two of the other suspects pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. The fourth man awaits trial on a first-degree murder charge.

Jury: Manhattan man guilty in robbery-related killing

Key stakeholders in Geary Community Hospital have initiated discussions on the status of healthcare in the community and a way forward for GCH. This follows the recent announcement that the intensive care unit at the hospital will be closed by Feb. 1.

LJ Baker, Director Human Resources and External Relations, noted in the near future there will be additional meetings including such stakeholders as the physician group at the hospital to county and hospital board representatives. "At this point there's a lot of spit-balling going on so to speak, a lot of opinions about what could have been done differently in the past, where we are&nbsp; right now when it comes to contracts that the hospital is under right now that are costing the hospital money, and how we can eliminate some of those costs. But no decisions have been made at this time."

Baker added that the strategy sessions are planned this week and next week where more input can be obtained and a strategy&nbsp; developed.

Baker said that they pledge to provide updated information as a strategy is finalized.

Key stakeholders in Geary Community Hospital have initiated discussions on the status of healthcare in the community and a way forward for GCH. This follows the recent announcement that the intensive care unit at the hospital will be closed by Feb. 1.LJ Baker, Director Human Resources and External Relations, noted in the near future there will be additional meetings including such stakeholders as the physician group at the hospital to county and hospital board representatives. "At this point there's a lot of spit-balling going on so to speak, a lot of opinions about what could have been done differently in the past, where we are&nbsp; right now when it comes to contracts that the hospital is under right now that are costing the hospital money, and how we can eliminate some of those costs. But no decisions have been made at this time."Baker added that the strategy sessions are planned this week and next week where more input can be obtained and a strategy&nbsp; developed.Baker said that they pledge to provide updated information as a strategy is finalized.

GCH stakeholders are meeting

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Army, for the first time, is offering a maximum enlistment bonus of $50,000 to highly skilled recruits who join for six years, The Associated Press has learned, as the service struggles to lure soldiers into certain critical jobs during the continuing pandemic.

Maj. Gen. Kevin Vereen, head of Army Recruiting Command, told AP that shuttered schools and the competitive job market over the past year have posed significant challenges for recruiters. So heading into the most difficult months of the year for recruiting, the Army is hoping that some extra cash and a few other changes will entice qualified young people to sign up.

“We are still living the implications of 2020 and the onset of COVID, when the school systems basically shut down,” said Vereen. “We lost a full class of young men and women that we didn’t have contact with, face-to-face.”

Two years of the pandemic has made it more difficult to recruit in schools and at public events, and the competition for quality workers has intensified as young people weigh their options.

Some, said Vereen, are taking what he calls a gap year, and “are making the decision that they don’t necessarily need to work right now.”

The annual recruiting goal fluctuates as currently serving soldiers decide whether to reenlist or leave. In the last two years, as the pandemic raged, many decided to stay in, lessening the pressure on recruiting to help keep the Army at its full strength of 485,000. Last year’s recruiting goal was 57,500, and Vereen said it will be about the same this year.

To entice recruits, those who sign up for a six-year enlistment in one of several high-demand career fields can get bonuses that total as much as $50,000. Given the high standards, it will be difficult for many to qualify for the top bonus.

The final figure depends on when they agree to ship out for training, if they already have critical skills and if they choose airborne or ranger posts. Certain careers — such as missile defense crew, special forces, signals intelligence and fire control specialists who coordinate battlefield weapons operations — can often come with the maximum bonuses. But other key jobs include infantry, intelligence analyst, combat medic specialist, military police, combat engineer and several others. And those may change every month, based on available spots in the training pipeline and other service needs.

Until now, the Army has offered a maximum bonus of $40,000.

“We’re in a competitive market,” said Vereen. “How we incentivize is absolutely essential, and that is absolutely something that we know that is important to trying to get somebody to come and join the military.′

Sgt. 1st Class Mary James has been working as a recruiter in Ohio since November 2020, and she said the early months — when COVID-19 was surging and there were no vaccines — were challenging. It’s gotten better, and she said the higher bonuses will help her.

“Money isn’t always the first thing that they talk about, but it does come into play,” said James, who’s been in the Army for 15 years. “It will be exciting to see what the return is on that. You know, I think it does put us in one of the top tier levels of competitive businesses.”

James, who previously worked as a signals intelligence analyst, can also talk to recruits about deploying to war zones, and the exciting opportunities the military offers. And she said she hears a lot of questions and worries about stability, leaving home and a career that may have them moving from place to place every few years.

Vereen said the Army is doing more to address those types of concerns. Last fall the Army significantly increased the option to enlist for two years, expanding it to a total of 84 different career fields. And some will be able to choose where they will initially be assigned — a benefit Army leaders approved in an effort to be more family friendly and bolster the recruiting effort, particularly in the pandemic.

According to Vereen, the total amount of bonuses available hasn’t been set. But the money has decreased every year since a peak of more than $485 million in 2018, after the Army failed to meet its annual recruiting goal. In the fiscal year that ended last Sept. 30, the Army spent more than $233 million on bonuses, with about 16,500 recruits getting an average enlistment bonus of more than $14,000.

“We want to promote the value of serving your country first,” said Vereen. “But we also know that, this generation and I guess human nature, you know, it’s all about compensation, too.”

For James, the money may help her meet her recruiting goal as the Army heads into what it calls the “bathtub” months of February to May, when recruiting is historically at its low point. During the spring, the Army’s more than 9,400 recruiters have to seek out and sign up people who have already graduated from high school and college. Recruiting traditionally spikes as students graduate in the spring and start looking for jobs.

James said her goal is to get 20 qualified candidates a week to take initial enlistment steps, and last week she made 75% of that. She had more success around the holidays, but it’s more difficult now.

Compounding the issue is the highly contagious omicron variant, which is prompting some school systems to shut down — just as recruiters want to get into the schools or get out to sports events to woo candidates.

As a result, Brig. Gen. John Cushing, the deputy commander at Recruiting Command, said the Army decided to tweak its bonus systems. In previous years, said Cushing, the Army spread out the bonuses. “sort of evenly like peanut butter across the whole accessions (recruiting) year.” This year, the money will be concentrated in the next few months when it is really needed.

“It is certainly a weapon that we have in our arsenal. And I think we’ve used it effectively and I’m very confident we’ll get after it again this year,” said Cushing.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Army, for the first time, is offering a maximum enlistment bonus of $50,000 to highly skilled recruits who join for six years, The Associated Press has learned, as the service struggles to lure soldiers into certain critical jobs during the continuing pandemic.Maj. Gen. Kevin Vereen, head of Army Recruiting Command, told AP that shuttered schools and the competitive job market over the past year have posed significant challenges for recruiters. So heading into the most difficult months of the year for recruiting, the Army is hoping that some extra cash and a few other changes will entice qualified young people to sign up.“We are still living the implications of 2020 and the onset of COVID, when the school systems basically shut down,” said Vereen. “We lost a full class of young men and women that we didn’t have contact with, face-to-face.”Two years of the pandemic has made it more difficult to recruit in schools and at public events, and the competition for quality workers has intensified as young people weigh their options.Some, said Vereen, are taking what he calls a gap year, and “are making the decision that they don’t necessarily need to work right now.”The annual recruiting goal fluctuates as currently serving soldiers decide whether to reenlist or leave. In the last two years, as the pandemic raged, many decided to stay in, lessening the pressure on recruiting to help keep the Army at its full strength of 485,000. Last year’s recruiting goal was 57,500, and Vereen said it will be about the same this year.To entice recruits, those who sign up for a six-year enlistment in one of several high-demand career fields can get bonuses that total as much as $50,000. Given the high standards, it will be difficult for many to qualify for the top bonus.The final figure depends on when they agree to ship out for training, if they already have critical skills and if they choose airborne or ranger posts. Certain careers — such as missile defense crew, special forces, signals intelligence and fire control specialists who coordinate battlefield weapons operations — can often come with the maximum bonuses. But other key jobs include infantry, intelligence analyst, combat medic specialist, military police, combat engineer and several others. And those may change every month, based on available spots in the training pipeline and other service needs.Until now, the Army has offered a maximum bonus of $40,000.“We’re in a competitive market,” said Vereen. “How we incentivize is absolutely essential, and that is absolutely something that we know that is important to trying to get somebody to come and join the military.′Sgt. 1st Class Mary James has been working as a recruiter in Ohio since November 2020, and she said the early months — when COVID-19 was surging and there were no vaccines — were challenging. It’s gotten better, and she said the higher bonuses will help her.“Money isn’t always the first thing that they talk about, but it does come into play,” said James, who’s been in the Army for 15 years. “It will be exciting to see what the return is on that. You know, I think it does put us in one of the top tier levels of competitive businesses.”James, who previously worked as a signals intelligence analyst, can also talk to recruits about deploying to war zones, and the exciting opportunities the military offers. And she said she hears a lot of questions and worries about stability, leaving home and a career that may have them moving from place to place every few years.Vereen said the Army is doing more to address those types of concerns. Last fall the Army significantly increased the option to enlist for two years, expanding it to a total of 84 different career fields. And some will be able to choose where they will initially be assigned — a benefit Army leaders approved in an effort to be more family friendly and bolster the recruiting effort, particularly in the pandemic.According to Vereen, the total amount of bonuses available hasn’t been set. But the money has decreased every year since a peak of more than $485 million in 2018, after the Army failed to meet its annual recruiting goal. In the fiscal year that ended last Sept. 30, the Army spent more than $233 million on bonuses, with about 16,500 recruits getting an average enlistment bonus of more than $14,000.“We want to promote the value of serving your country first,” said Vereen. “But we also know that, this generation and I guess human nature, you know, it’s all about compensation, too.”For James, the money may help her meet her recruiting goal as the Army heads into what it calls the “bathtub” months of February to May, when recruiting is historically at its low point. During the spring, the Army’s more than 9,400 recruiters have to seek out and sign up people who have already graduated from high school and college. Recruiting traditionally spikes as students graduate in the spring and start looking for jobs.James said her goal is to get 20 qualified candidates a week to take initial enlistment steps, and last week she made 75% of that. She had more success around the holidays, but it’s more difficult now.Compounding the issue is the highly contagious omicron variant, which is prompting some school systems to shut down — just as recruiters want to get into the schools or get out to sports events to woo candidates.As a result, Brig. Gen. John Cushing, the deputy commander at Recruiting Command, said the Army decided to tweak its bonus systems. In previous years, said Cushing, the Army spread out the bonuses. “sort of evenly like peanut butter across the whole accessions (recruiting) year.” This year, the money will be concentrated in the next few months when it is really needed.“It is certainly a weapon that we have in our arsenal. And I think we’ve used it effectively and I’m very confident we’ll get after it again this year,” said Cushing.

Army ups bonuses for recruits to $50K, as COVID takes toll

Programs and events with a cause like the Martin Luther King Jr. celebration are important and timely. That's the view of planners for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration in Junction City. Coordinator Daphne Maxwell said it's an opportunity for the community to come together in one place, "hearing the same things and being able to get encouraged&nbsp; and being able to be charged and being able to go out in a unified front."

Maxwell noted that King didn't actually motivate people but he had a movement. She explained her recent comments to the celebration planning committee in Junction City. "We're going to mask up and move out, that's what I said. Because it's time to get up and not to talk about what we used to do and what we could have done, but we have an opportunity to do that now in the conditions that we're in." Maxwell added, " We know that we're still in pandemic but we don't have to be in pandemonium through the pandemic. We can be at a peaceful program in the midst of this. We have to find a way to do what we do and that's what's needed in the midst of what we're going through."

The Martin Luther King Jr. program on Monday will begin at 10 a.m. at the C.L. Hoover Opera House. Chaplain LTC James D. Key, 1st Infantry Division Chaplain and author / writer, will be the keynote speaker. Face masks will be required for those who attend in order to align with health and safety protocols.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostPrograms and events with a cause like the Martin Luther King Jr. celebration are important and timely. That's the view of planners for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration in Junction City. Coordinator Daphne Maxwell said it's an opportunity for the community to come together in one place, "hearing the same things and being able to get encouraged&nbsp; and being able to be charged and being able to go out in a unified front."Maxwell noted that King didn't actually motivate people but he had a movement. She explained her recent comments to the celebration planning committee in Junction City. "We're going to mask up and move out, that's what I said. Because it's time to get up and not to talk about what we used to do and what we could have done, but we have an opportunity to do that now in the conditions that we're in." Maxwell added, " We know that we're still in pandemic but we don't have to be in pandemonium through the pandemic. We can be at a peaceful program in the midst of this. We have to find a way to do what we do and that's what's needed in the midst of what we're going through."The Martin Luther King Jr. program on Monday will begin at 10 a.m. at the C.L. Hoover Opera House. Chaplain LTC James D. Key, 1st Infantry Division Chaplain and author / writer, will be the keynote speaker. Face masks will be required for those who attend in order to align with health and safety protocols.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration will be Monday

Saint Xavier School will be a busy site Thursday evening. Basketball &amp; BBQ are planned. Assistant boys basketball coach Cameron Augustine said it should be a big event. "We're hoping to get a lot of people out there. It's really important, especially when we get the big crowds. The guys usually feed off of it and things go well."

The opponent for the Saint Xavier teams will be the Heritage Christian Eagles.

There will be middle school girls basketball at 4:30 p.m. and middle school boys basketball at 5:30 p.m. High school girls will play basketball at 7 p.m. and the high school boys at 8:30 p.m. There will also be performances by the Pep band during the high school games and a cheer clinic performance before the high school girls game at approximately 6:30 p.m.

Concession stand items for sale will range from pulled pork sandwiches to brisket sandwiches. Bratwurst will also be available. There will also be spirit wear and a cheer booth where items will be for sale.

Saint Xavier School will be a busy site Thursday evening. Basketball &amp; BBQ are planned. Assistant boys basketball coach Cameron Augustine said it should be a big event. "We're hoping to get a lot of people out there. It's really important, especially when we get the big crowds. The guys usually feed off of it and things go well."The opponent for the Saint Xavier teams will be the Heritage Christian Eagles.There will be middle school girls basketball at 4:30 p.m. and middle school boys basketball at 5:30 p.m. High school girls will play basketball at 7 p.m. and the high school boys at 8:30 p.m. There will also be performances by the Pep band during the high school games and a cheer clinic performance before the high school girls game at approximately 6:30 p.m.Concession stand items for sale will range from pulled pork sandwiches to brisket sandwiches. Bratwurst will also be available. There will also be spirit wear and a cheer booth where items will be for sale.

Basketball & BBQ will be at Saint Xavier School

The Junction City Fire Chief, Jason Lankas, was the guest speaker at the January 12 JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s “Celebration of Optimism”. Jason told club members he was reared in western Kansas. He is one of triplets. Their mother was an EMT and had some influence on his interest in that field. “I learned to drive a truck when I was nine, which might have also prepared me for driving a fire truck”, Jason said.

Jason has a Bachelor of Science degree from Kansas State University. He worked at Rock Springs Ranch for five years in charge of the horses and pool area at the Ranch. In 2003 he applied to be a firefighter in Junction City.

The Chief also stated that when the previous Chief left the area in October of 2020, Jason was asked to be the Interim Fire Chief. During that that time and until now he has faced several challenges. One of those challenges was dealing with COVID-19 with not only patients, but also with his own personnel. “At one point, Station 2 on Lacy Drive had an entire shift out with COVID. The closing of the ICU at Geary Community Hospital and having to transport patients to other hospitals has been difficult. There have been occasions when transport had to be taken as far away as Dodge City, Lincoln and even Omaha, Nebraska. I am trying to get another shift with 14 personnel added to help meet the demand” he said.

Jason also told club members that he is “working on building a third station closer to the new Junction City High School. It currently takes about 8 minutes for our trucks to arrive at either the Junction City Middle School or the new high school from Station 2.”

The recent crisis involving lack of water in the city presented some unique problems. A city without water is dangerous in the case of residential or commercial fire. “Our trucks can only carry 700 gallons of water. The ladder truck can only carry 500 gallons of water. We can get support from Fort Riley and Manhattan”, but water coming only from trucks and not from hydrants may not be enough to handle a large fire.

Then there was the windstorm. During the storm, there were numerous calls about fires in the area when people saw smoke in the sky. “That smoke came from fires in Russell”, the Chief said.

“We are working on trying to get new equipment to help monitor air supplies to firefighters when the firefighters are inside a structure; getting a new $600,000 truck, which takes two years to build; maintaining and improving our water and ice rescue teams to serve the largest lake in Kansas at Milford Lake.”

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club gathers every Wednesday at the Hampton Inn located at 1029 S. Washington Street in Junction City. Guests are always welcome and will receive a free breakfast buffet on their first visit. Breakfast is served at 6:30 AM, the “Celebration of Optimism” begins at 6:50 AM and concludes at 7:30 AM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642021809270.jpeg" alt="Pictured from left to right: JC Fire Chief, Jason Lankas; Don Manley, President of the Junction City Breakfast Optimist Club." />
 <figcaption>Pictured from left to right: JC Fire Chief, Jason Lankas; Don Manley, President of the Junction City Breakfast Optimist Club.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dr. Ferrell MillerThe Junction City Fire Chief, Jason Lankas, was the guest speaker at the January 12 JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s “Celebration of Optimism”. Jason told club members he was reared in western Kansas. He is one of triplets. Their mother was an EMT and had some influence on his interest in that field. “I learned to drive a truck when I was nine, which might have also prepared me for driving a fire truck”, Jason said.Jason has a Bachelor of Science degree from Kansas State University. He worked at Rock Springs Ranch for five years in charge of the horses and pool area at the Ranch. In 2003 he applied to be a firefighter in Junction City.The Chief also stated that when the previous Chief left the area in October of 2020, Jason was asked to be the Interim Fire Chief. During that that time and until now he has faced several challenges. One of those challenges was dealing with COVID-19 with not only patients, but also with his own personnel. “At one point, Station 2 on Lacy Drive had an entire shift out with COVID. The closing of the ICU at Geary Community Hospital and having to transport patients to other hospitals has been difficult. There have been occasions when transport had to be taken as far away as Dodge City, Lincoln and even Omaha, Nebraska. I am trying to get another shift with 14 personnel added to help meet the demand” he said.Jason also told club members that he is “working on building a third station closer to the new Junction City High School. It currently takes about 8 minutes for our trucks to arrive at either the Junction City Middle School or the new high school from Station 2.”The recent crisis involving lack of water in the city presented some unique problems. A city without water is dangerous in the case of residential or commercial fire. “Our trucks can only carry 700 gallons of water. The ladder truck can only carry 500 gallons of water. We can get support from Fort Riley and Manhattan”, but water coming only from trucks and not from hydrants may not be enough to handle a large fire.Then there was the windstorm. During the storm, there were numerous calls about fires in the area when people saw smoke in the sky. “That smoke came from fires in Russell”, the Chief said.“We are working on trying to get new equipment to help monitor air supplies to firefighters when the firefighters are inside a structure; getting a new $600,000 truck, which takes two years to build; maintaining and improving our water and ice rescue teams to serve the largest lake in Kansas at Milford Lake.”The JC Breakfast Optimist Club gathers every Wednesday at the Hampton Inn located at 1029 S. Washington Street in Junction City. Guests are always welcome and will receive a free breakfast buffet on their first visit. Breakfast is served at 6:30 AM, the “Celebration of Optimism” begins at 6:50 AM and concludes at 7:30 AM.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fire Chief addresses the Optimist Club

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – Geary County Schools on Monday welcomed three newly-elected Board of Education members at their first meeting.

The new members include Dr. Jason Butler, Mark Hatcher, and Dr. Beth Hudson.

A graduate of Eisenhower Elementary School, Junction City Middle School, and Junction City High School (Class of 2004), Dr. Butler is no stranger to the Geary County Schools family. From the football field and wrestling mats to the math, science, and fine arts classrooms, the teachers at Geary County Schools provided him with a foundation to help him earn a B.S. in Biology from Southwest Baptist University, a Masters of Science in Business Administration from Texas A&amp;M-Texarkana and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the University of Pikeville – Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine. Currently, Dr. Butler

Butler serves as a family medicine physician at Geary Community Hospital, previously working as the director of medical services at Irwin Army Community Hospital and deploying with the 1st Infantry Division, 2nd Brigade, 299 BSB for nine months to Skwierzyna, Poland as the battalion surgeon during Operation Atlantic Resolve. He and his wife, Casey Butler, have three daughters who all attend Geary County Schools.

As a Board member, Dr. Butler hopes to provide proactive, rather than reactive, leadership by evaluating and improving school lunches, focusing on teacher retention and recruitment, as well as continually working with the local medical community and health department to safely wade through the ever-changing landscape of COVID-19. Above all, Dr. Butler plans to listen to the concerns of students who are progressing the grades, while consistently collaborating with the teachers who are countlessly prepping, teaching, and mentoring students.

Mark Hatcher has been the lead pastor of Junction City Church of Nazarene since October of 2017, previously supporting Franklin Elementary School and now Washington Elementary School through the church. Previously, Hatcher had pastored at a church in Southwest City, Missouri, before returning to his home state of Kansas. He and his wife, Amy, have been married for 23 years and have four children, all of which are graduates of Geary County Schools or current Geary County Schools students. Hatcher has been involved in many community events and organizations, including Hometown Christmas, Walk Thru Bethlehem, Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce, House of Hope, and Fresh Start Homeless Shelter.&nbsp;

As a Board member, Hatcher hopes to help restore morale among teachers, paraprofessionals, and staff by helping to cultivate a culture where they know they are valued, respected, listened to, and fully supported. He wishes to be a voice for the students, teachers, staff, and taxpayers of the community. Furthermore, he plans to help support and champion policies and values that will give families confidence that their role as the primary stakeholder in their children’s education will be strengthened.

Dr. Hudson has fulfilled many roles in Geary County Schools during her 40 years in the community, beginning as a bookkeeper at Junction City High School. Once finishing her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education in December of 1985, she started as a first grade teacher at Jefferson Elementary School and taught there for six years. Hudson then taught first grade at Ware Elementary School and Eisenhower Elementary School, eventually returning to Ware as an assistant principal. Following four years at Ware, she began as the director of elementary education for the district, serving in the position for 17 years.

Hudson then served as the associate superintendent for six years, serving as interim superintendent on three separate occasions. In addition to her career, Hudson and her husband have served on local boards and volunteered at their church, the Dorothy Bramlage Library, and Wheels of Hope.

Hudson chose to return to Geary County Schools as a Board member in hope of helping strengthen the district’s legacy as a leader in education, ensuring relationships across the district are built on mutual trust and respect.&nbsp;

By Lindley LundUSD 475JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – Geary County Schools on Monday welcomed three newly-elected Board of Education members at their first meeting.The new members include Dr. Jason Butler, Mark Hatcher, and Dr. Beth Hudson.Dr. Jason Butler<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642021343866.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A graduate of Eisenhower Elementary School, Junction City Middle School, and Junction City High School (Class of 2004), Dr. Butler is no stranger to the Geary County Schools family. From the football field and wrestling mats to the math, science, and fine arts classrooms, the teachers at Geary County Schools provided him with a foundation to help him earn a B.S. in Biology from Southwest Baptist University, a Masters of Science in Business Administration from Texas A&amp;M-Texarkana and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the University of Pikeville – Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine. Currently, Dr. ButlerButler serves as a family medicine physician at Geary Community Hospital, previously working as the director of medical services at Irwin Army Community Hospital and deploying with the 1st Infantry Division, 2nd Brigade, 299 BSB for nine months to Skwierzyna, Poland as the battalion surgeon during Operation Atlantic Resolve. He and his wife, Casey Butler, have three daughters who all attend Geary County Schools.As a Board member, Dr. Butler hopes to provide proactive, rather than reactive, leadership by evaluating and improving school lunches, focusing on teacher retention and recruitment, as well as continually working with the local medical community and health department to safely wade through the ever-changing landscape of COVID-19. Above all, Dr. Butler plans to listen to the concerns of students who are progressing the grades, while consistently collaborating with the teachers who are countlessly prepping, teaching, and mentoring students.Mark Hatcher<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642021365498.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mark Hatcher has been the lead pastor of Junction City Church of Nazarene since October of 2017, previously supporting Franklin Elementary School and now Washington Elementary School through the church. Previously, Hatcher had pastored at a church in Southwest City, Missouri, before returning to his home state of Kansas. He and his wife, Amy, have been married for 23 years and have four children, all of which are graduates of Geary County Schools or current Geary County Schools students. Hatcher has been involved in many community events and organizations, including Hometown Christmas, Walk Thru Bethlehem, Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce, House of Hope, and Fresh Start Homeless Shelter.&nbsp;As a Board member, Hatcher hopes to help restore morale among teachers, paraprofessionals, and staff by helping to cultivate a culture where they know they are valued, respected, listened to, and fully supported. He wishes to be a voice for the students, teachers, staff, and taxpayers of the community. Furthermore, he plans to help support and champion policies and values that will give families confidence that their role as the primary stakeholder in their children’s education will be strengthened.Dr. Beth Hudson<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642021388396.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Hudson has fulfilled many roles in Geary County Schools during her 40 years in the community, beginning as a bookkeeper at Junction City High School. Once finishing her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education in December of 1985, she started as a first grade teacher at Jefferson Elementary School and taught there for six years. Hudson then taught first grade at Ware Elementary School and Eisenhower Elementary School, eventually returning to Ware as an assistant principal. Following four years at Ware, she began as the director of elementary education for the district, serving in the position for 17 years.Hudson then served as the associate superintendent for six years, serving as interim superintendent on three separate occasions. In addition to her career, Hudson and her husband have served on local boards and volunteered at their church, the Dorothy Bramlage Library, and Wheels of Hope.Hudson chose to return to Geary County Schools as a Board member in hope of helping strengthen the district’s legacy as a leader in education, ensuring relationships across the district are built on mutual trust and respect.&nbsp;

Geary County Schools welcomes new Board of Education members

Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce will host three legislative coffees during the 2022 session. The first one will be Saturday, Feb. 5th while the others will be on Saturday, March 5th and Saturday, April 2nd. They will be held at the Junction City Municipal Building from 9 - 11 a.m.

The coffees are an opportunity to meet your legislators and ask questions about legislative issues. Those invited to attend include State Senators Tom Hawk and Jeff Longbine, plus State Representatives Dave Baker and Lonnie Clark.

Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce will host three legislative coffees during the 2022 session. The first one will be Saturday, Feb. 5th while the others will be on Saturday, March 5th and Saturday, April 2nd. They will be held at the Junction City Municipal Building from 9 - 11 a.m.The coffees are an opportunity to meet your legislators and ask questions about legislative issues. Those invited to attend include State Senators Tom Hawk and Jeff Longbine, plus State Representatives Dave Baker and Lonnie Clark.

Chamber schedules legislative coffees

Regular monthly Geary USD 475 Board of Education meetings have had a 6:30 p.m. meeting time but that has changed. During their meeting this past Monday the Board decided to begin those meetings at six p.m. Unless otherwise noted by the district they are normally held at the Devin Center on the first Monday of each month.&nbsp;

Additional meetings when needed will begin on Thursdays at 5:30 p.m.

Regular monthly Geary USD 475 Board of Education meetings have had a 6:30 p.m. meeting time but that has changed. During their meeting this past Monday the Board decided to begin those meetings at six p.m. Unless otherwise noted by the district they are normally held at the Devin Center on the first Monday of each month.&nbsp;Additional meetings when needed will begin on Thursdays at 5:30 p.m.

School board changes regular BOE meeting time

Since their last update on Monday Geary Community Hospital has tested 233 people for COVID-19 and 119 of those were positive. That's a positivity rate of 51%.

GCH is continuing to experience a significantly high call volume on their COVID hotline due to an increased infection rate in the community.&nbsp;

Three people were hospitalized in the intensive care unit, and two were on ventilators. All three of those hospitalized were unvaccinated.

Continue to wear a mask, wash your hands and continue to social distance.

Since their last update on Monday Geary Community Hospital has tested 233 people for COVID-19 and 119 of those were positive. That's a positivity rate of 51%.GCH is continuing to experience a significantly high call volume on their COVID hotline due to an increased infection rate in the community.&nbsp;Three people were hospitalized in the intensive care unit, and two were on ventilators. All three of those hospitalized were unvaccinated.Continue to wear a mask, wash your hands and continue to social distance.

GCH updates COVID-19 test results

The 37th annual Junction City - Geary County Commemoration and Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will be held Monday, Jan. 17th at 10 a.m. the C.L. Hoover Opera House.&nbsp;

The theme will be "Write ( Right ) the Vision!" and will highlight King as a writer and author, and how his writings influence what is experienced today. Organizers noted that King's vision was clear but today due to injustices and actions contrary to his dream, have become less of a reality. The question exists, How do we as a people 'right' the vision?

Chaplain LTC James D. Key, 1st Infantry Division Chaplain, Author / Writer, will be the keynote speaker. He will be accompanied by the 1st Infantry Division Jazz Combo, the JC JOTC, Michael T. Brown &amp; Friends and other guests. The program will also feature African American authors from the community who will highlight their works. The Coretta Scott King Courage ( Humanitarian ) Award will also be presented.

The community is invited. The event is free of charge. Face mask wear is mandatory to align with health and safety protocols.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThe 37th annual Junction City - Geary County Commemoration and Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will be held Monday, Jan. 17th at 10 a.m. the C.L. Hoover Opera House.&nbsp;The theme will be "Write ( Right ) the Vision!" and will highlight King as a writer and author, and how his writings influence what is experienced today. Organizers noted that King's vision was clear but today due to injustices and actions contrary to his dream, have become less of a reality. The question exists, How do we as a people 'right' the vision?Chaplain LTC James D. Key, 1st Infantry Division Chaplain, Author / Writer, will be the keynote speaker. He will be accompanied by the 1st Infantry Division Jazz Combo, the JC JOTC, Michael T. Brown &amp; Friends and other guests. The program will also feature African American authors from the community who will highlight their works. The Coretta Scott King Courage ( Humanitarian ) Award will also be presented.The community is invited. The event is free of charge. Face mask wear is mandatory to align with health and safety protocols.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day observance will be Monday

GEARY COUNTY—The United State's Army is asking the public for help and offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the murder of&nbsp;Enfinnity Hayes.

According to the Geary County Sheriff,&nbsp; On October 3, a man described as 6-foot-1 or taller and dressed in all black approached 22-year-old Enfinnity Hayes and her husband at the&nbsp; Milford State Park Group Shelter. The suspect&nbsp; attempted to rob the couple at gun point and shot&nbsp;Enfinnity. Her husband drove her to Geary Community Hospital where she died.

Anyone with any information on a suspect is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 785-238-2261, or after hours at 785-762-5912.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637156736481.png" alt="Enfinnity Hayes- courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Enfinnity Hayes- courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY—The United State's Army is asking the public for help and offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the murder of&nbsp;Enfinnity Hayes.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGearyCountySheriffsDepartment%2Fposts%2F237576788555786&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="497" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>According to the Geary County Sheriff,&nbsp; On October 3, a man described as 6-foot-1 or taller and dressed in all black approached 22-year-old Enfinnity Hayes and her husband at the&nbsp; Milford State Park Group Shelter. The suspect&nbsp; attempted to rob the couple at gun point and shot&nbsp;Enfinnity. Her husband drove her to Geary Community Hospital where she died.Anyone with any information on a suspect is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 785-238-2261, or after hours at 785-762-5912.

Army offers $25,000 reward for info in murder of Ft. Riley woman

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged theft by deception.

Just after 1p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for theft by deception in the 600 block of Schurle Way in Riley. A 68-year-old man reported an unknown suspect posing as customer service for Amazon Prime scammed him out of $1,500 in Visa gift cards as payment for a "fraudulent return."

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 theft by deception.Just after 1p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for theft by deception in the 600 block of Schurle Way in Riley. A 68-year-old man reported an unknown suspect posing as customer service for Amazon Prime scammed him out of $1,500 in Visa gift cards as payment for a "fraudulent return."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: Man lost $1500 in Amazon Prime scam

DIVARTY and Charlie Company 299 BSB 1st Infantry Division Soldiers took down the Christmas lights in downtown Junction City Tuesday morning.

Phyllis Fitzgerald helped coordinate the volunteer effort. ( Photos courtesy of Phyllis Fitzgerald )

DIVARTY and Charlie Company 299 BSB 1st Infantry Division Soldiers took down the Christmas lights in downtown Junction City Tuesday morning.Phyllis Fitzgerald helped coordinate the volunteer effort. ( Photos courtesy of Phyllis Fitzgerald )<figure>
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Troops help take down Christmas lights

Junction City vs Highland Park Basketball

St. Francis Xavier School will be hosting it's Basketball &amp; BBQ event this Thursday, January 13th.&nbsp; The event begins at 4:30 p.m.&nbsp; with middle school basketball games followed by the high school games at 7 p.m.&nbsp; 

There will be a PreK-8th cheer&nbsp;performance at approximately 6:30 between the Middle school boys and high school girls games.&nbsp; Smoked BBQ pulled pork and brisket sandwiches and bratwurst will be available at the concession stand, and spirit wear and cheer items will be available for purchase.&nbsp; 

You can cheer on the Rams as they take on the Heritage Christian Eagles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

St. Francis Xavier School will be hosting it's Basketball &amp; BBQ event this Thursday, January 13th.&nbsp; The event begins at 4:30 p.m.&nbsp; with middle school basketball games followed by the high school games at 7 p.m.&nbsp; There will be a PreK-8th cheer&nbsp;performance at approximately 6:30 between the Middle school boys and high school girls games.&nbsp; Smoked BBQ pulled pork and brisket sandwiches and bratwurst will be available at the concession stand, and spirit wear and cheer items will be available for purchase.&nbsp; You can cheer on the Rams as they take on the Heritage Christian Eagles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Basketball & BBQ event is scheduled at Saint Xavier School

Geary USD 475 Superintendent Dr. Reginald Eggleston reported to the school board Monday night that in the past quarantines for students and staff have lasted ten days. But new information has been received from State Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson, looking at a five-day period with the continued wearing of a face mask. "So the five days will allow us to bring staff back, students back of course and keep schools running. With the ten days as numbers increase with staff you run into the possibility of having to shut a school down. "

Eggleston noted the five days with quarantine gives schools an opportunity to keep operations going and keep schools open. Education will start on&nbsp; the new measures this week.&nbsp; USD 475 changes will reflect that change in quarantine measures and will start sooner rather than later.

Eggleston added that face masks must still be worn on buses.

Geary USD 475 Superintendent Dr. Reginald Eggleston reported to the school board Monday night that in the past quarantines for students and staff have lasted ten days. But new information has been received from State Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson, looking at a five-day period with the continued wearing of a face mask. "So the five days will allow us to bring staff back, students back of course and keep schools running. With the ten days as numbers increase with staff you run into the possibility of having to shut a school down. "Eggleston noted the five days with quarantine gives schools an opportunity to keep operations going and keep schools open. Education will start on&nbsp; the new measures this week.&nbsp; USD 475 changes will reflect that change in quarantine measures and will start sooner rather than later.Eggleston added that face masks must still be worn on buses.

Expect a change in Covid-19 quarantine length for public schools

For some time county officials have been talking about a proposed emergency operations center in the basement of the Geary County Office Building. Now it appears they will try to focus attention on another location.

Alex Tyson, Commission Chair, said Monday that it's imperative that they begin looking for a new location, "and possibly doing something different." Tyson added that it should be someplace other than the County Office Building. "Space-wise that location can't work right now so I think for us we need to do our due diligence, but also look at possibly putting it in a different location. "

For some time county officials have been talking about a proposed emergency operations center in the basement of the Geary County Office Building. Now it appears they will try to focus attention on another location.Alex Tyson, Commission Chair, said Monday that it's imperative that they begin looking for a new location, "and possibly doing something different." Tyson added that it should be someplace other than the County Office Building. "Space-wise that location can't work right now so I think for us we need to do our due diligence, but also look at possibly putting it in a different location. "No final decision has been made.

County plans to refocus on a proposed EOC

Junction City police are not accepting any more applications for the 2022 Citizens Police Academy. The Academy begins at 6 p.m. Thursday.

Those who have been accepted will receive a telephone call and an email advising them that they have been accepted.

Junction City police are not accepting any more applications for the 2022 Citizens Police Academy. The Academy begins at 6 p.m. Thursday.Those who have been accepted will receive a telephone call and an email advising them that they have been accepted.

2022 Citizens Police Academy is full

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged incident at a fast food restaurant in Manhattan.

Just after 2a.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for aggravated battery and aggravated assault in the 800 block of N. 4th Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 23-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman reported an unknown male suspect pulled a gun on the male victim as he walked by the suspect who was a passenger in a car in the McDonald's drive-thru line. 

A separate male suspect driving the car hit the female victim in the leg with the car as it fled the area. The female victim refused treatment by EMS. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641913726904.png" alt="McDonalds drive through on North 4th Street in Manhattan -Google image" />
 <figcaption>McDonalds drive through on North 4th Street in Manhattan -Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged incident at a fast food restaurant in Manhattan.Just after 2a.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for aggravated battery and aggravated assault in the 800 block of N. 4th Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 23-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman reported an unknown male suspect pulled a gun on the male victim as he walked by the suspect who was a passenger in a car in the McDonald's drive-thru line. A separate male suspect driving the car hit the female victim in the leg with the car as it fled the area. The female victim refused treatment by EMS. 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 investigates alleged incident with gun at drive-through

Junction City ( 6-0 ) hosts Highland Park ( 7-0 ) in a key Centennial League contest Tuesday night. JCHS coach Nick Perez is calling on Blue Jay fans to attend to help support the home team. "That's exactly what we need tonight. " Perez noted that they have been talking with students the past two days. "We're hoping to have a big crowd and just kind of get after them a little bit. Hopefully we can feed off the crowd and get going. "

This could also be a good contest for community members to take in. "This will be one to come pay your money for. This is two good teams going at it, and it's going to be a very, very challenge for us."

Highland Park is ranked third in Class 5A and Junction City is ranked tenth in Class 6A.

The girls varsity game with Highland Park is scheduled at 6 p.m. followed by the boys contest about 7:30 p.m.&nbsp;

Junction City ( 6-0 ) hosts Highland Park ( 7-0 ) in a key Centennial League contest Tuesday night. JCHS coach Nick Perez is calling on Blue Jay fans to attend to help support the home team. "That's exactly what we need tonight. " Perez noted that they have been talking with students the past two days. "We're hoping to have a big crowd and just kind of get after them a little bit. Hopefully we can feed off the crowd and get going. "This could also be a good contest for community members to take in. "This will be one to come pay your money for. This is two good teams going at it, and it's going to be a very, very challenge for us."Highland Park is ranked third in Class 5A and Junction City is ranked tenth in Class 6A.The girls varsity game with Highland Park is scheduled at 6 p.m. followed by the boys contest about 7:30 p.m.&nbsp;

Coach issues plea for Blue Jay fans to attend game

Ron Johnson is the new president of the Geary USD 475 Board of Education. He was elected by his fellow board members to serve in that capacity for the next year. ( Photos courtesy USD 475 )

Kristy Haden was elected to serve as vice president for the school board for the coming year.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostRon Johnson is the new president of the Geary USD 475 Board of Education. He was elected by his fellow board members to serve in that capacity for the next year. ( Photos courtesy USD 475 )<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641909348420.png" alt="Ron Johnson" />
 <figcaption>Ron Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>Kristy Haden was elected to serve as vice president for the school board for the coming year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641909459802.png" alt="Kristy Haden" />
 <figcaption>Kristy Haden</figcaption>
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School board conducts their annual reorganization

Alex Tyson is the new chairman of the Geary County Commission. His election was approved by his fellow commissioners, Trish Giordano and Keith Ascher, during the annual reorganization of the governing body on Monday.

Tyson will serve as chairman for the next year. "I'm honored and it's a great job to have and I look forward to serving the community. " Tyson noted that his priorities for the coming year are to help build the community. "Bring business to our community, also of course roads and bridges.&nbsp;

Tyson wants to push toward paving the remaining half mile of Munson Road on the west side of the new Junction City High School. "Finish that all the way up to Rucker ( Road ). That way our kids and educators have a safe road to&nbsp; travel on." The north half of Rucker Road running northwest of the high school is not paved.&nbsp;

Trish Giordano will serve as vice president and Keith Ascher as secretary for the county commission.

Tyson will represent the county on the Local Emergency Preparedness Committee, aTa Bus board, Military Affairs Council and Chamber of Commerce Board.

Giordano will serve on EDC, Flint Hills Regional Council, and as a liaison to the board of Geary Community Hospital Trustees.

Ascher will be on the regional juvenile detention center committee, Solid waste Management Committee, the Public Building Commission and the Metropolitan Planning Organization.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641863077285.jpeg" alt="Geary County Commission Chairman Alex Tyson" />
 <figcaption>Geary County Commission Chairman Alex Tyson</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostAlex Tyson is the new chairman of the Geary County Commission. His election was approved by his fellow commissioners, Trish Giordano and Keith Ascher, during the annual reorganization of the governing body on Monday.Tyson will serve as chairman for the next year. "I'm honored and it's a great job to have and I look forward to serving the community. " Tyson noted that his priorities for the coming year are to help build the community. "Bring business to our community, also of course roads and bridges.&nbsp;Tyson wants to push toward paving the remaining half mile of Munson Road on the west side of the new Junction City High School. "Finish that all the way up to Rucker ( Road ). That way our kids and educators have a safe road to&nbsp; travel on." The north half of Rucker Road running northwest of the high school is not paved.&nbsp;Trish Giordano will serve as vice president and Keith Ascher as secretary for the county commission.Tyson will represent the county on the Local Emergency Preparedness Committee, aTa Bus board, Military Affairs Council and Chamber of Commerce Board.Giordano will serve on EDC, Flint Hills Regional Council, and as a liaison to the board of Geary Community Hospital Trustees.Ascher will be on the regional juvenile detention center committee, Solid waste Management Committee, the Public Building Commission and the Metropolitan Planning Organization.

Alex Tyson becomes Geary County Commission Chairman

Since theirlast update on Wednesday, January 5th, GCH officials reported that the hospital has tested 306 individuals for COVID-19, with 118 of those positive. That was a positivity rate of 38.6%.

As of Monday there five COVID-19 patients at Geary Community Hospital, three in the intensive care unit and one on a ventilator. Four of those patients were unvaccinated.

Since theirlast update on Wednesday, January 5th, GCH officials reported that the hospital has tested 306 individuals for COVID-19, with 118 of those positive. That was a positivity rate of 38.6%.GCH is continuing to experience a significantly high call volume on their COVID hotline due to an increased infection rate in the community.&nbsp;As of Monday there five COVID-19 patients at Geary Community Hospital, three in the intensive care unit and one on a ventilator. Four of those patients were unvaccinated.