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.

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.

GCH updates COVID-19 statistics

The 1st Infantry Division command team honored departing Brig. Gen. Andrew C. Gainey, Deputy Commanding General - Maneuver, 1st Infantry Division, with a Victory with Honors ceremony, last Friday, which included the salute battery firing a ceremonial salute.

Maj. Gen. D.A. Sims, Commanding General of the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley recognized and thanked Gainey for his accomplishments. “Andy Gainey managed to create a division tactical command post that led the overall success of NTC 20-10,” Sims said. “We’re proud to have been fortunate enough to serve alongside you for the last year and a half.”

During the ceremony, Gainey gave a speech outlining the accomplishments that could not have been completed without his Soldiers and fellow officers.

“I am thankful that I had the privilege to be have been surrounded by fantastic Soldiers and tremendous leaders,” said Gainey. “You are the foundation behind our success.”

The 1st Infantry Division command team honored departing Brig. Gen. Andrew C. Gainey, Deputy Commanding General - Maneuver, 1st Infantry Division, with a Victory with Honors ceremony, last Friday, which included the salute battery firing a ceremonial salute.Maj. Gen. D.A. Sims, Commanding General of the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley recognized and thanked Gainey for his accomplishments. “Andy Gainey managed to create a division tactical command post that led the overall success of NTC 20-10,” Sims said. “We’re proud to have been fortunate enough to serve alongside you for the last year and a half.”During the ceremony, Gainey gave a speech outlining the accomplishments that could not have been completed without his Soldiers and fellow officers.“I am thankful that I had the privilege to be have been surrounded by fantastic Soldiers and tremendous leaders,” said Gainey. “You are the foundation behind our success.”

Brig. Gen. Gainey is honored at Fort Riley

St. Francis Xavier School recently hosted a Baby Jesus Shower where baby gifts were collected to take to the JC Pregnancy Center for those in need.  This is an annual tradition at St. Xavier, giving students the opportunity to provide for others and learn the importance of supporting those in the Junction City area. Krystal Jahnke from Saint Xavier School noted that parishioners and community members were also invited to donate and participate in this event.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641833797472.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>St. Francis Xavier School recently hosted a Baby Jesus Shower where baby gifts were collected to take to the JC Pregnancy Center for those in need. This is an annual tradition at St. Xavier, giving students the opportunity to provide for others and learn the importance of supporting those in the Junction City area. Krystal Jahnke from Saint Xavier School noted that parishioners and community members were also invited to donate and participate in this event.

Saint Xavier collects gifts for the JC Pregnancy Center

JC Post published a story on Jan. 6 on the discussion with Veolia Water concerning the recent problems at the Junction City Water Plant that followed the major winds that swept through the area on Dec. 15.&nbsp; Now Veolia North America has released a statement with their response.

Veolia North America has engaged technical experts and other specialists to evaluate the basement flooding that caused the power outages at the plant. It is clear that the original design of the plant was not meant to address weather of this magnitude, particularly since the plant’s electrical systems are located in the basement. We continue to work closely with the City to ensure the plant is operating safely while also working to identify flaws in the plant’s electrical system to determine why main power could not be restored. It is an unfortunate situation, and the VNA team is conducting a root cause analysis concerning the plant’s design and will work closely with the City to make sure this issue does not occur again.&nbsp;

Junction City officials continue their discussions with Veolia concerning what occurred at the water plant that led to the recent loss of water for multiple days in the community. Allen Dinkel, City Manager, said they think they know what happened. "It was operator error on behalf of the employee of Veolia Water. We're digging through who's going to pay for it and we have had a lot of discussion with Veolia. "

Dinkel noted that some repair work is still being done but the plant is operational. He added that he was not sure if all of the HVAC system was up yet. "Changes are also being considered in Phase Two remodeling of the plant.

Dinkel confirmed that there are discussions with Veolia on that company making some sort of compensation to the city but the city manager was not able to release more information at this time.

JC Post published a story on Jan. 6 on the discussion with Veolia Water concerning the recent problems at the Junction City Water Plant that followed the major winds that swept through the area on Dec. 15.&nbsp; Now Veolia North America has released a statement with their response.Veolia North America has engaged technical experts and other specialists to evaluate the basement flooding that caused the power outages at the plant. It is clear that the original design of the plant was not meant to address weather of this magnitude, particularly since the plant’s electrical systems are located in the basement. We continue to work closely with the City to ensure the plant is operating safely while also working to identify flaws in the plant’s electrical system to determine why main power could not be restored. It is an unfortunate situation, and the VNA team is conducting a root cause analysis concerning the plant’s design and will work closely with the City to make sure this issue does not occur again.&nbsp;---Jan. 6 report:Junction City officials continue their discussions with Veolia concerning what occurred at the water plant that led to the recent loss of water for multiple days in the community. Allen Dinkel, City Manager, said they think they know what happened. "It was operator error on behalf of the employee of Veolia Water. We're digging through who's going to pay for it and we have had a lot of discussion with Veolia. "Dinkel noted that some repair work is still being done but the plant is operational. He added that he was not sure if all of the HVAC system was up yet. "Changes are also being considered in Phase Two remodeling of the plant.Dinkel confirmed that there are discussions with Veolia on that company making some sort of compensation to the city but the city manager was not able to release more information at this time.

Veolia responds to report

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are working to locate a suspect tho fled

Just before 2a.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for fleeing or attempt to elude LEO near the intersection of N. 12th Street and Laramie Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. 

Officers attempted to stop a white 1997 Acura Integra that was driving in the wrong direction in the 1100 block of Laramie Street.

 When officers activated emergency lights and sirens, the car fled at a high rate of speed north on Juilette Street. 

The car was later located in the 300 block of Holly Place but the 27-year old male driver ran from the car and was not located. 

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 working to locate a suspect tho fledJust before 2a.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for fleeing or attempt to elude LEO near the intersection of N. 12th Street and Laramie Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. Officers attempted to stop a white 1997 Acura Integra that was driving in the wrong direction in the 1100 block of Laramie Street. When officers activated emergency lights and sirens, the car fled at a high rate of speed north on Juilette Street. The car was later located in the 300 block of Holly Place but the 27-year old male driver ran from the car and was not located. 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: Wrong-way driver fled traffic stop in Manhattan

All that’s left of the original home at the ranch is a foundation underneath an apple tree. Eventually, after years of sitting vacant, it was deemed unsafe and summarily demolished. I never got to see the inside, but I remember badly wanting to walk through the door and explore the rooms my great grandparents had inhabited at one time. I haven’t given the place much thought in the last 30 years, but it’s been on my mind lately as I sorted through the recently released Kansas Statewide Housing Needs Assessment, which is projected to be the first step in identifying how to address the needs and priorities for housing across the state. While at one time that farmhouse at the ranch was a home, if it were still standing the number of people who would consider living there is vanishingly small. I know at some point it was retrofitted with running water and had electric service, but it also had a coal furnace, little insulation and none of the modern-day luxuries we take for granted. If it were still standing, the house would be closer to a shelter than a home. In fact, that’s one of the main reasons it sat vacant for so long. It was outdated by the standards of the 1970s, and it would have been cost prohibitive to modernize it then. This scenario has played out across the state, especially in rural areas for the past century. Individually, it doesn’t appear like a big deal. Collectively, however, the decaying housing stock has become a limiting factor in the state’s future. One line in the report’s opening section stands out, “A lack of quality, affordable housing is widely recognized as one of the state’s biggest barriers to growth and development, particularly in rural and underserved communities.” I agree with this wholeheartedly, even though “affordable” causes some queasiness. Far too often the decision to expand a business or take a job in rural America aren’t solely decided by the dollars and cents of those individual decisions. Rather it comes down to secondary factors like an available workforce or desirable housing options, with the latter often limiting the former. The report also found that Kansas comes up short for housing across the income spectrum. Simply put, there’s a lack of housing at every price point, every size and every shape. The challenge isn’t simply building new dwellings, it’s figuring out how to create homes attractive to working families who can unlock the potential awaiting discovery across Kansas. While Johnson City will never resemble anything close to Johnson County, writing it off as just another casualty of modern life isn’t acceptable. I must confess I don’t have the solution for this problem, mainly because while the problem is singular and widespread, the options for fixing it is as diverse as it is local. The solution for Colby is likely far different than what will work for Colwich. Assessing the problem is the easy part. Finding the correct mix of public and private partnerships isn’t going to be easy. But it’s the best way to build to a better future.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

All that’s left of the original home at the ranch is a foundation underneath an apple tree. Eventually, after years of sitting vacant, it was deemed unsafe and summarily demolished. I never got to see the inside, but I remember badly wanting to walk through the door and explore the rooms my great grandparents had inhabited at one time. I haven’t given the place much thought in the last 30 years, but it’s been on my mind lately as I sorted through the recently released Kansas Statewide Housing Needs Assessment, which is projected to be the first step in identifying how to address the needs and priorities for housing across the state. While at one time that farmhouse at the ranch was a home, if it were still standing the number of people who would consider living there is vanishingly small. I know at some point it was retrofitted with running water and had electric service, but it also had a coal furnace, little insulation and none of the modern-day luxuries we take for granted. If it were still standing, the house would be closer to a shelter than a home. In fact, that’s one of the main reasons it sat vacant for so long. It was outdated by the standards of the 1970s, and it would have been cost prohibitive to modernize it then. This scenario has played out across the state, especially in rural areas for the past century. Individually, it doesn’t appear like a big deal. Collectively, however, the decaying housing stock has become a limiting factor in the state’s future. One line in the report’s opening section stands out, “A lack of quality, affordable housing is widely recognized as one of the state’s biggest barriers to growth and development, particularly in rural and underserved communities.” I agree with this wholeheartedly, even though “affordable” causes some queasiness. Far too often the decision to expand a business or take a job in rural America aren’t solely decided by the dollars and cents of those individual decisions. Rather it comes down to secondary factors like an available workforce or desirable housing options, with the latter often limiting the former. The report also found that Kansas comes up short for housing across the income spectrum. Simply put, there’s a lack of housing at every price point, every size and every shape. The challenge isn’t simply building new dwellings, it’s figuring out how to create homes attractive to working families who can unlock the potential awaiting discovery across Kansas. While Johnson City will never resemble anything close to Johnson County, writing it off as just another casualty of modern life isn’t acceptable. I must confess I don’t have the solution for this problem, mainly because while the problem is singular and widespread, the options for fixing it is as diverse as it is local. The solution for Colby is likely far different than what will work for Colwich. Assessing the problem is the easy part. Finding the correct mix of public and private partnerships isn’t going to be easy. But it’s the best way to build to a better future."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Building for the Future

According to the daily report provided by the Geary County Sheriff's Department, Deputies responded to a pair of car - elk accidents Saturday evening on U.S. 77 near mile marker 166.

In the first case about 7:21 p.m. Sarah Vogt of Riley County was driving north in her Honda Civic when the vehicle struck an elk. No injuries were reported but the car was removed from the scene by Homestead Wrecker.

In the second case about 7:56 p.m. James J. Stevens, Wakefield, was driving north in a Ford Focus when the vehicle struck an elk. No injuries were reported but the car was removed from the scene by Homestead Wrecker.

According to the daily report provided by the Geary County Sheriff's Department, Deputies responded to a pair of car - elk accidents Saturday evening on U.S. 77 near mile marker 166.In the first case about 7:21 p.m. Sarah Vogt of Riley County was driving north in her Honda Civic when the vehicle struck an elk. No injuries were reported but the car was removed from the scene by Homestead Wrecker.In the second case about 7:56 p.m. James J. Stevens, Wakefield, was driving north in a Ford Focus when the vehicle struck an elk. No injuries were reported but the car was removed from the scene by Homestead Wrecker.

Cars and elk collide in Geary County

Geary USD 475 Board of Education members will elect a president and vice president from among&nbsp; their ranks when they meet Monday evening at the Devin Center. The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m.&nbsp;

The Board will also get a facility update, and an overview of the inclement winter weather decision process.&nbsp;

Geary USD 475 Board of Education members will elect a president and vice president from among&nbsp; their ranks when they meet Monday evening at the Devin Center. The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m.&nbsp;The Board will also get a facility update, and an overview of the inclement winter weather decision process.&nbsp;

School board will conduct annual reorganization

Serenity Emilia Medina, the daughter of Ida Medina of Junction City, was born on January 7th at 4:17pm, weighing 8lbs, 12.6oz and was 20 inches long.

Serenity Emilia Medina, the daughter of Ida Medina of Junction City, was born on January 7th at 4:17pm, weighing 8lbs, 12.6oz and was 20 inches long.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641777337671.jpeg" alt="Pictured with Ida &amp; Serenity is (left to right) Dr. Anwar Khoury, Nicole Graham, RN, Leslie Fetters, RN &amp; Kallee Robinson, RN." />
 <figcaption>Pictured with Ida &amp; Serenity is (left to right) Dr. Anwar Khoury, Nicole Graham, RN, Leslie Fetters, RN &amp; Kallee Robinson, RN.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Geary Community Hospital's first baby of the year

Patsy Johnson is the new Programs and Education Director for the Geary County Historical Society. Her hiring was announced this past week by the Director of the Historical Society, Heather Hagedorn.

Johnson has a longtime education background. She has served as the STEM Coordinator for Manhattan Catholic School and has also taught Pre-K through eighth grade.&nbsp;

Patsy Johnson is the new Programs and Education Director for the Geary County Historical Society. Her hiring was announced this past week by the Director of the Historical Society, Heather Hagedorn.Johnson has a longtime education background. She has served as the STEM Coordinator for Manhattan Catholic School and has also taught Pre-K through eighth grade.&nbsp;

Historical Society hires a new Programs and Education Director 

Geary County Commissioners are scheduled to conduct their annual reorganization on Monday about 1:15 p.m. That will involve election of a chairman, vice chairman and secretary, plus appointment of commissioners to different public boards and advisory committees.

The governing body will be in session from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday at the county office building.

Geary County Commissioners are scheduled to conduct their annual reorganization on Monday about 1:15 p.m. That will involve election of a chairman, vice chairman and secretary, plus appointment of commissioners to different public boards and advisory committees.The governing body will be in session from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday at the county office building.

County Commission will reorganize on Monday

Weather permitting, the Geary County Fish &amp; Game Association has announced that Jan. 29th is the date set for hauling accumulated holiday evergreens from the corner of 14h and Jackson in Junction City to Sportsman's Acres. The loading will begin about 8:30 a.m. The plan is to grind the trees into mulch at a later date when the weather warms up. 

Volunteers are needed to help with&nbsp; this project. Bring your truck or trailer, good gloves and tie-downs.

Weather permitting, the Geary County Fish &amp; Game Association has announced that Jan. 29th is the date set for hauling accumulated holiday evergreens from the corner of 14h and Jackson in Junction City to Sportsman's Acres. The loading will begin about 8:30 a.m. The plan is to grind the trees into mulch at a later date when the weather warms up. Volunteers are needed to help with&nbsp; this project. Bring your truck or trailer, good gloves and tie-downs.

Fish & Game Association is collecting used natural Christmas trees

There will be a Red Cross Community Blood Drive on Wednesday Jan. 19th and Thursday Jan. 20th in Junction City at the Municipal Building. The hours on the 19th will be 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on the 20th 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Call 1-800 REDCROSS or go to Red CrossBlood.org to make an appointment.

There will be a Red Cross Community Blood Drive on Wednesday Jan. 19th and Thursday Jan. 20th in Junction City at the Municipal Building. The hours on the 19th will be 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on the 20th 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.Call 1-800 REDCROSS or go to Red CrossBlood.org to make an appointment.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641682954437.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Red Cross blood drive is scheduled in Junction City

TOPEKA—The 8th Judicial District Nominating Commission renewed the call for nominations to fill a district magistrate judge vacancy in Dickinson County. 

The commission did not receive any nominations by the original December deadline.

The vacancy was created when Judge Keith Collett was sworn in as a district judge October 29. 

The 8th Judicial District is composed of Dickinson, Geary, Marion, and Morris counties.

Justice Caleb Stegall, the Supreme Court departmental justice responsible for the 8th Judicial District, said nominees can apply or be nominated, but it must be on a nomination form and include the nominee's signature.

Kansas law requires this district magistrate judge be:

a resident of Dickinson County at the time of taking office and while holding office;

a graduate of a high school, a secondary school, or the equivalent; and

either a lawyer admitted to practice in Kansas or able to pass an examination given by the Supreme Court to become certified within 18 months.

Nominations must be accompanied by a nomination form available from the clerk of the district court in Dickinson, Geary, Marion, or Morris counties, or the clerk of the appellate courts in the Kansas Judicial Center in Topeka.

Nomination forms may be submitted electronically or by paper copy. The nomination form includes instructions for electronic submission. If submitting by paper copy, one original and eight copies of the completed nomination form and supporting letters must be submitted by noon Friday, February 4, to:

The nominating commission will convene at 9 a.m. Friday, March 4, to interview nominees. Interviews will be in person at the Geary County Courthouse. Interviews are open to the public.

Any person with a disability who requires accommodation to access the nominating commission meetings should notify the judicial branch ADA coordinator as early as possible, preferably 10 working days before the meeting date:

After serving one year in office, the new magistrate judge must stand for a retention vote in the next general election to remain in the position. If retained, the incumbent will serve a four-year term.

The 8th Judicial District Nominating Commission consists of Justice Caleb Stegall as the nonvoting chair; Kevin Harris and Douglas Thompson, Abilene; Ashley Iverson, Council Grove; Darrell Miller, Dwight; Keith Henry, Junction City; Daryl Enos and Edwin Wheeler Jr., Marion; and Eric Coffman, Milford. 

TOPEKA—The 8th Judicial District Nominating Commission renewed the call for nominations to fill a district magistrate judge vacancy in Dickinson County. The commission did not receive any nominations by the original December deadline.The vacancy was created when Judge Keith Collett was sworn in as a district judge October 29. The 8th Judicial District is composed of Dickinson, Geary, Marion, and Morris counties.Justice Caleb Stegall, the Supreme Court departmental justice responsible for the 8th Judicial District, said nominees can apply or be nominated, but it must be on a nomination form and include the nominee's signature.Eligibility requirementsKansas law requires this district magistrate judge be:a resident of Dickinson County at the time of taking office and while holding office;a graduate of a high school, a secondary school, or the equivalent; andeither a lawyer admitted to practice in Kansas or able to pass an examination given by the Supreme Court to become certified within 18 months.Nomination processNominations must be accompanied by a nomination form available from the clerk of the district court in Dickinson, Geary, Marion, or Morris counties, or the clerk of the appellate courts in the Kansas Judicial Center in Topeka.Nomination forms may be submitted electronically or by paper copy. The nomination form includes instructions for electronic submission. If submitting by paper copy, one original and eight copies of the completed nomination form and supporting letters must be submitted by noon Friday, February 4, to:Justice Caleb StegallKansas Judicial Center301 SW 10th Ave.Topeka, KS 66612-1507Interviews and appointmentThe nominating commission will convene at 9 a.m. Friday, March 4, to interview nominees. Interviews will be in person at the Geary County Courthouse. Interviews are open to the public.ADA accommodationAny person with a disability who requires accommodation to access the nominating commission meetings should notify the judicial branch ADA coordinator as early as possible, preferably 10 working days before the meeting date:ADA CoordinatorADA@kscourts.org785-296-2256TTY at 711Term of officeAfter serving one year in office, the new magistrate judge must stand for a retention vote in the next general election to remain in the position. If retained, the incumbent will serve a four-year term.Nominating commissionThe 8th Judicial District Nominating Commission consists of Justice Caleb Stegall as the nonvoting chair; Kevin Harris and Douglas Thompson, Abilene; Ashley Iverson, Council Grove; Darrell Miller, Dwight; Keith Henry, Junction City; Daryl Enos and Edwin Wheeler Jr., Marion; and Eric Coffman, Milford.

8th Judicial District Nominating Commission renews call for nominees for district magistrate judge vacancy

Junction City High School vs Emporia Basketball

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY— Family and friends of a woman from Wamego critically injured in an accidental shooting this week have&nbsp; established<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/christa-evans-medical-funds-family-needs?qid=047016f3839ca4fe92059bc9a2ddd9c6"> an online fundraiser</a> to assist her in recover.

Just before 8:30. a.m. Wednesday, the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Department received a 911 from the residence at 105 East Valley lot 8 in Wamego reference to a woman being shot, according to Police Chief Michael D. Baker, Sr.&nbsp;

First responders found a 31 year-old Crista Evans suffering from a gunshot to the upper chest area. The<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/christa-evans-medical-funds-family-needs?qid=047016f3839ca4fe92059bc9a2ddd9c6"> GoFundMe </a>page said, "in a horrific accident her son&nbsp; shot her." The family has three small children.

Wamego police reported evidence indicates a juvenile child residing in the home discharged a handgun, accidentally striking the her.

Pottawatomie County EMS transported Evans to Stormont-Vail Hospital in Topeka Kansas in critical condition. The <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/christa-evans-medical-funds-family-needs?qid=047016f3839ca4fe92059bc9a2ddd9c6">GoFundme </a>page said, "Crista was told she may never walk again,"

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that critically injured a woman in Wamego.

Just before 8:30. a.m. Wednesday, the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Department received a 911 from the residence at 105 East Valley lot 8 in Wamego reference to a woman being shot, according to Police Chief Michael D. Baker, Sr.

Officers from the Wamego Police Department and Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office responded to the residence.

First responders found a 31 year-old woman suffering from a gunshot to the upper chest area. Pottawatomie County EMS transported her to Stormont-Vail Hospital in Topeka Kansas in critical condition.

At this time the incident is in the preliminary stages of the investigation. Evidence indicates a juvenile child residing in the home discharged a handgun, accidentally striking the adult.

Results of the investigation will be sent to the Pottawatomie County Attorney’s office for review, according to Baker.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the victim.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641591678241.png" alt="Photo courtesy GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY— Family and friends of a woman from Wamego critically injured in an accidental shooting this week have&nbsp; established<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/christa-evans-medical-funds-family-needs?qid=047016f3839ca4fe92059bc9a2ddd9c6"> an online fundraiser</a> to assist her in recover.Just before 8:30. a.m. Wednesday, the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Department received a 911 from the residence at 105 East Valley lot 8 in Wamego reference to a woman being shot, according to Police Chief Michael D. Baker, Sr.&nbsp;First responders found a 31 year-old Crista Evans suffering from a gunshot to the upper chest area. The<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/christa-evans-medical-funds-family-needs?qid=047016f3839ca4fe92059bc9a2ddd9c6"> GoFundMe </a>page said, "in a horrific accident her son&nbsp; shot her." The family has three small children.Wamego police reported evidence indicates a juvenile child residing in the home discharged a handgun, accidentally striking the her.Pottawatomie County EMS transported Evans to Stormont-Vail Hospital in Topeka Kansas in critical condition. The <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/christa-evans-medical-funds-family-needs?qid=047016f3839ca4fe92059bc9a2ddd9c6">GoFundme </a>page said, "Crista was told she may never walk again,"---------POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that critically injured a woman in Wamego.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641410462337.png" alt="Police at the scene of the investigation early Wednesday -photo courtesy WIBW-TV" />
 <figcaption>Police at the scene of the investigation early Wednesday -photo courtesy WIBW-TV</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 8:30. a.m. Wednesday, the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Department received a 911 from the residence at 105 East Valley lot 8 in Wamego reference to a woman being shot, according to Police Chief Michael D. Baker, Sr.Officers from the Wamego Police Department and Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office responded to the residence.First responders found a 31 year-old woman suffering from a gunshot to the upper chest area. Pottawatomie County EMS transported her to Stormont-Vail Hospital in Topeka Kansas in critical condition.At this time the incident is in the preliminary stages of the investigation. Evidence indicates a juvenile child residing in the home discharged a handgun, accidentally striking the adult.Results of the investigation will be sent to the Pottawatomie County Attorney’s office for review, according to Baker.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the victim.

Fundraiser established after child accidentally shot Wamego woman

Fort Riley officials have announced that beginning Jan. 10, COVID-19 drive-thru rapid, antigen, testing will be available at Irwin Army Community Hospital’s ground floor parking structure Monday – Friday, 9 – 11 a.m., for symptomatic beneficiaries only. There are no appointments for the rapid, antigen, drive-thru and tests are first-come, first-served. This testing site will remain open until further notice and will be closed during federal and training holidays.

Active-duty personnel must visit their respective Soldier Centered Medical Homes for testing and cannot use IACH’s drive-thru rapid, antigen, test site.

DoD civilians who are not beneficiaries must consult their respective primary care manager.

Patients who require a PCR, polymerase chain reaction, test must schedule an appointment with their Patient Centered Medical Home by calling 785-239-DOCS or 785-239-3627.

Fort Riley officials have announced that beginning Jan. 10, COVID-19 drive-thru rapid, antigen, testing will be available at Irwin Army Community Hospital’s ground floor parking structure Monday – Friday, 9 – 11 a.m., for symptomatic beneficiaries only. There are no appointments for the rapid, antigen, drive-thru and tests are first-come, first-served. This testing site will remain open until further notice and will be closed during federal and training holidays.Active-duty personnel must visit their respective Soldier Centered Medical Homes for testing and cannot use IACH’s drive-thru rapid, antigen, test site.DoD civilians who are not beneficiaries must consult their respective primary care manager.Patients who require a PCR, polymerase chain reaction, test must schedule an appointment with their Patient Centered Medical Home by calling 785-239-DOCS or 785-239-3627.

Fort Riley stands up COVID testing site

2022 officers for the Geary County Fish &amp; Game Association have been announced by the organization. Dan Hammond will serve as President and Gary Pelcak as Vice President. Kathy Brown George will be the Secretary, Shirley Allen the Treasurer and Larry George and Keith Fitzgerald will be Directors.

Election of officers and board members occurred at the Association's general membership meeting.

2022 officers for the Geary County Fish &amp; Game Association have been announced by the organization. Dan Hammond will serve as President and Gary Pelcak as Vice President. Kathy Brown George will be the Secretary, Shirley Allen the Treasurer and Larry George and Keith Fitzgerald will be Directors.Election of officers and board members occurred at the Association's general membership meeting.

Fish & Game Association elects 2022 officers

Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce has confirmed a series of postponements.

The Leaders Retreat Jan. 13 - 14 will be postponed, along with the Diversity Fair that was scheduled on Jan. 11 and the January Spouses Welcome. The Business After Hours for January has been canceled.

Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce has confirmed a series of postponements.The Leaders Retreat Jan. 13 - 14 will be postponed, along with the Diversity Fair that was scheduled on Jan. 11 and the January Spouses Welcome. The Business After Hours for January has been canceled.

Chamber announces postponed and canceled events

Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce officials have announced the postponement of the 2022 Flint Hills Regional Leaders Retreat. It had been scheduled Thursday and Friday, Jan. 13 and 14 in Manhattan. Junction City and Wamego Chambers also participate in&nbsp; the annual event.

COVID-19 related concerns were cited.&nbsp; In a social media post the Chamber noted that the public health of the community and member businesses has to come first. They will begin working with the venue, the speakers and sponsors on a new date later this spring.&nbsp;

Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce officials have announced the postponement of the 2022 Flint Hills Regional Leaders Retreat. It had been scheduled Thursday and Friday, Jan. 13 and 14 in Manhattan. Junction City and Wamego Chambers also participate in&nbsp; the annual event.COVID-19 related concerns were cited.&nbsp; In a social media post the Chamber noted that the public health of the community and member businesses has to come first. They will begin working with the venue, the speakers and sponsors on a new date later this spring.&nbsp;

Leaders Retreat is being postponed

Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce has provided information about an upcoming event where business and community leaders will talk about relevant economic issues that will impact local businesses and communities. That will include economic conditions, economic drivers for the state and region, and general expectations for the coming months. This will be part of Geary County Community Outlook Conference on Jan. 26 from 8-10 a.m. at the Junction City Municipal Building.

Topics will include labor demand, costs and wages. A local presenter will provide an in-depth analysis of the local economy.

The registration cost is $50. Register at COE.cedbr.org. CEDBR is the Center for Economic Development and Business Research in Wichita.

Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce has provided information about an upcoming event where business and community leaders will talk about relevant economic issues that will impact local businesses and communities. That will include economic conditions, economic drivers for the state and region, and general expectations for the coming months. This will be part of Geary County Community Outlook Conference on Jan. 26 from 8-10 a.m. at the Junction City Municipal Building.Topics will include labor demand, costs and wages. A local presenter will provide an in-depth analysis of the local economy.The registration cost is $50. Register at COE.cedbr.org. CEDBR is the Center for Economic Development and Business Research in Wichita.

Geary County Community Outlook Conference is scheduled Jan. 26

Estate planning basics: a recipe to avoid disaster is the next Answers for Older Kansans seminar. The Zoom event will feature elder law attorney Paul Shipp at 5:30 p.m.. Jan. 13.

Registration must be made by noon on Thursday, January 13, 2022. Register at http://www.ncfhaaa.com/seminars or call 1-800-432-2703. Log in instructions will be sent to those who register by the deadline.

The presentation is part of The Answers for Older Kansans series of seminars organized by the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging (NC-FH AAA). The goal is to provide trustworthy and easy-to-understand information to older Kansans, people living with disabilities and caregivers.

Estate planning basics: a recipe to avoid disaster is the next Answers for Older Kansans seminar. The Zoom event will feature elder law attorney Paul Shipp at 5:30 p.m.. Jan. 13.Registration must be made by noon on Thursday, January 13, 2022. Register at http://www.ncfhaaa.com/seminars or call 1-800-432-2703. Log in instructions will be sent to those who register by the deadline.The presentation is part of The Answers for Older Kansans series of seminars organized by the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging (NC-FH AAA). The goal is to provide trustworthy and easy-to-understand information to older Kansans, people living with disabilities and caregivers.

How to avoid estate planning disasters 

Annual Dinner award nominations are being sought by the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce. They include the Outstanding Citizenship, Seitz Family Military Community,&nbsp; Eldon L. Hoyle Economic Development and Business Excellence Awards.

Nominations will be accepted through Feb. 4th. The dinner will be held Thursday, March 10th at the Geary County Convention Center.

Annual Dinner award nominations are being sought by the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce. They include the Outstanding Citizenship, Seitz Family Military Community,&nbsp; Eldon L. Hoyle Economic Development and Business Excellence Awards.Nominations will be accepted through Feb. 4th. The dinner will be held Thursday, March 10th at the Geary County Convention Center.

Chamber of Commerce seeks award nominations

By Scott Edger&nbsp; Little Apple Post&nbsp;

Last Thursday, the Riley County Board of Commissioners were notified that Flint Hills Regional Council was increasing membership dues&nbsp;for 2022. FHRC asked the Board&nbsp;to name a&nbsp;representative&nbsp;and decide whether or not the county would pay the increased dues by January 15.&nbsp;

During its regularly scheduled meeting, the Board voted 2-0 against the increased dues and withdrew from the FHRC.&nbsp;Commissioners John Ford and Greg McKinley voted to leave the group.&nbsp;Commissioner Kathryn Focke abstained.&nbsp;

Last week, commissioners&nbsp;asked Clancy Coleman,&nbsp;director of Administrative Services, to&nbsp;provide Commissioners&nbsp;with&nbsp;information on&nbsp;the Council&nbsp;and try to&nbsp;identify&nbsp;benefits of remaining a member.&nbsp;

Commissioners John Ford and Greg McKinley&nbsp;took exception to the requested increase, and indicated the Council’s increase is&nbsp;due to&nbsp;self-imposed financial woes&nbsp;and&nbsp;has not demonstrated real value&nbsp;in the past.&nbsp;

“I have&nbsp;problem&nbsp;with that,” Ford said. “I don't believe&nbsp;their loans&nbsp;should be placed on the backs of taxpayers.&nbsp;That's something that should be taken care of internally.&nbsp;I'm a point&nbsp;with&nbsp;this where I'm honestly ready to move on.”&nbsp;

McKinley said much of what he has seen from FHRC “was not useful” and that he&nbsp;hasn’t seen any value in the Council for years.” He noted discrepancies in&nbsp;claims made by&nbsp;FHRC leadership&nbsp;regarding&nbsp;population, and&nbsp;ineffective, generic results.&nbsp;

By Scott Edger&nbsp; Little Apple Post&nbsp;Last Thursday, the Riley County Board of Commissioners were notified that Flint Hills Regional Council was increasing membership dues&nbsp;for 2022. FHRC asked the Board&nbsp;to name a&nbsp;representative&nbsp;and decide whether or not the county would pay the increased dues by January 15.&nbsp;The Council got its answer today.&nbsp;During its regularly scheduled meeting, the Board voted 2-0 against the increased dues and withdrew from the FHRC.&nbsp;Commissioners John Ford and Greg McKinley voted to leave the group.&nbsp;Commissioner Kathryn Focke abstained.&nbsp;Last week, commissioners&nbsp;asked Clancy Coleman,&nbsp;director of Administrative Services, to&nbsp;provide Commissioners&nbsp;with&nbsp;information on&nbsp;the Council&nbsp;and try to&nbsp;identify&nbsp;benefits of remaining a member.&nbsp;Commissioners John Ford and Greg McKinley&nbsp;took exception to the requested increase, and indicated the Council’s increase is&nbsp;due to&nbsp;self-imposed financial woes&nbsp;and&nbsp;has not demonstrated real value&nbsp;in the past.&nbsp;“I have&nbsp;problem&nbsp;with that,” Ford said. “I don't believe&nbsp;their loans&nbsp;should be placed on the backs of taxpayers.&nbsp;That's something that should be taken care of internally.&nbsp;I'm a point&nbsp;with&nbsp;this where I'm honestly ready to move on.”&nbsp;McKinley said much of what he has seen from FHRC “was not useful” and that he&nbsp;hasn’t seen any value in the Council for years.” He noted discrepancies in&nbsp;claims made by&nbsp;FHRC leadership&nbsp;regarding&nbsp;population, and&nbsp;ineffective, generic results.&nbsp;

Riley County pulls out of the Flint Hills Regional Council

CDC has expanded recommendations for COVID-19 vaccine booster shots to now include everyone ages 12 years and older. Geary Community officials posted that at this time, only the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is authorized and recommended for teens ages 12 to 17. Pfizer vaccines are by appointment only, please call 785-238-0325

CDC has expanded recommendations for COVID-19 vaccine booster shots to now include everyone ages 12 years and older. Geary Community officials posted that at this time, only the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is authorized and recommended for teens ages 12 to 17. Pfizer vaccines are by appointment only, please call 785-238-0325

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