Jennifer Hoover, CASA&nbsp; volunteer advocate of the 8th Judicial District, has received the Ben Kitchens Volunteer of the Year Award from Junction City / Geary County United Way.&nbsp;

"I advocate for children that are in the foster care system that need a voice. I speak&nbsp; to foster parents and biological parents and children, and I advocate back&nbsp; to the judge and the court directly, said Hoover.

CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate.

Hoover was honored at the United Way Celebration Banquet at the Milford Lake Conference Center at Acorns Resort.&nbsp; Other nominees for the award included Linda Couch, Florence Whitebread, Sherilyn Brown and Walt Sutter.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651839208137.jpeg" alt="Jennifer Hoover" />
 <figcaption>Jennifer Hoover</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostJennifer Hoover, CASA&nbsp; volunteer advocate of the 8th Judicial District, has received the Ben Kitchens Volunteer of the Year Award from Junction City / Geary County United Way.&nbsp;"I advocate for children that are in the foster care system that need a voice. I speak&nbsp; to foster parents and biological parents and children, and I advocate back&nbsp; to the judge and the court directly, said Hoover.CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate.Hoover was honored at the United Way Celebration Banquet at the Milford Lake Conference Center at Acorns Resort.&nbsp; Other nominees for the award included Linda Couch, Florence Whitebread, Sherilyn Brown and Walt Sutter.&nbsp;

Junction City / Geary County United Way honors the Volunteer of the Year

Dave Martinez has been named the principal of Eisenhower Middle 
School in Manhattan. He currently serves as the Assistant Principal/Athletic Director
 at Eisenhower. He has served in that position since 2014. Prior to 
that, Mr. Martinez served as an Assistant Principal at Junction City 
Middle School. He has also been a physical education teacher in Garden 
City, KS and Junction City, KS.

Mr. Martinez has an Associate of Science degree from Garden City 
Community College, a Bachelor of Science degree in K-12 Physical 
Education from Emporia State University and a Master of Science in 
Education Administration from Kansas State University.

"I feel extremely blessed and excited for the opportunity to serve 
the staff, students, and families of EMS,” states Martinez. “I’m 
committed to encouraging all students that they have the potential to 
become great. We have an incredible staff with high expectations for all
 and my job is simple: to empower others and encourage excellence every 
day. &nbsp;It’s great to be an Eagle!”

“We are pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Dave Martinez as 
Principal of Eisenhower Middle School,” states Superintendent Dr. Marvin
 Wade. “Mr. Martinez has considerable middle school administrative 
experience and a solid understanding of educational best practice. We 
are fortunate that Mr. Martinez is a respected professional who has 
already demonstrated a high level of dedication to the students, staff, 
and families of Eisenhower Middle School.”

Martinez will begin his new position on July 1. He replaces retiring Eisenhower Middle School principal Tracy Newell.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651774561662.jpeg" alt="Martinez" />
 <figcaption>Martinez</figcaption>
 </figure>USD 383Dave Martinez has been named the principal of Eisenhower Middle 
School in Manhattan. He currently serves as the Assistant Principal/Athletic Director
 at Eisenhower. He has served in that position since 2014. Prior to 
that, Mr. Martinez served as an Assistant Principal at Junction City 
Middle School. He has also been a physical education teacher in Garden 
City, KS and Junction City, KS.Mr. Martinez has an Associate of Science degree from Garden City 
Community College, a Bachelor of Science degree in K-12 Physical 
Education from Emporia State University and a Master of Science in 
Education Administration from Kansas State University."I feel extremely blessed and excited for the opportunity to serve 
the staff, students, and families of EMS,” states Martinez. “I’m 
committed to encouraging all students that they have the potential to 
become great. We have an incredible staff with high expectations for all
 and my job is simple: to empower others and encourage excellence every 
day. &nbsp;It’s great to be an Eagle!”“We are pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Dave Martinez as 
Principal of Eisenhower Middle School,” states Superintendent Dr. Marvin
 Wade. “Mr. Martinez has considerable middle school administrative 
experience and a solid understanding of educational best practice. We 
are fortunate that Mr. Martinez is a respected professional who has 
already demonstrated a high level of dedication to the students, staff, 
and families of Eisenhower Middle School.”Martinez will begin his new position on July 1. He replaces retiring Eisenhower Middle School principal Tracy Newell.

Martinez named principal of Eisenhower Middle School

MANHATTAN — Imagine cattle ranching without traditional fencing and the costly, time-consuming fencing repairs. Two Kansas State University ecologists are working to make that vision a reality while benefiting streams and birds. It's part of a multi-partner research project using virtual electronic cattle fencing in the Flint Hills of Kansas. Virtual fencing is accomplished through special cattle collars and advanced GPS tracking that can be used to create exclusion areas or to move cattle without the need for physical fence lines. <a href="https://www.nature.org/en-us/" target="_blank">The Nature Conservancy</a>&nbsp;is partnering with Kansas State University, National Park Service, Kansas Grazing Lands Coalition and private producers to determine if virtual fencing can help managers improve conservation, business and soil carbon outcomes on working cattle ranches in the United States.&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;received a $435,000 grant from The Nature Conservancy to study the conservation aspects of the project in Kansas. This work by&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;is part of a $2 million project at three sites that is also assessing how soil carbon and ranching outcomes may be improved with innovative management options made possible by virtual fencing. Additional project sites are located in Colorado and New Mexico. The Flint Hills is home to some of the last remaining tallgrass prairie in the U.S. During the five-year study,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/biology/about/people/faculty/boyle-a/" target="_blank">Alice Boyle</a>, associate professor of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/biology" target="_blank">biology</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/biology/about/people/faculty/dodds/" target="_blank">Walter Dodds</a>,&nbsp;university distinguished professor of biology, will serve as the&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;co-principal investigators. They are seeking to understand how grazing practices created by virtual fencing affect vegetation, watersheds and grassland birds on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nps.gov/tapr/index.htm" target="_blank">Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve</a>&nbsp;and the neighboring Mushrush Red Angus ranch near Strong City. The experiments will allow Boyle to assess the impacts of virtual fencing on the habitat of grassland-dependent birds, including the greater prairie chicken and the Henslow sparrow. Dodds will study the effects on riparian zones — the areas bordering bodies of water — and water quality. "It's a great opportunity for us to test how to use virtual fencing to protect the waterways in the Flint Hills," Dodds said. "With the management concerns of the tallgrass prairie and the Flint Hills, both ranchers and researchers are looking at how to align the goals of conservation and cattle production." Cattle grazing mimics the original grazing of bison, which is an important part of the prairie ecosystem. Grazing helps to create the habitat patches tallgrass birds need and is also a land management tool. This project will help uncover potential new conservation and land management practices by precisely controlling cattle movement, according to researchers. "Grazers are really an important part of the system," Boyle said. "Many of the grassland birds need the cattle. It's all in the details — the amounts, the locations and the times. This project is going to be a huge advance to be able to manage within pastures at fine spatial scales to achieve the vegetation structure the birds need." The Nature Conservancy strives to advance the use of land management tools and practices that improve prairie habitats and to support the adoption of best practices by ranchers, resource professionals and other land managers. "In the area of the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve where we will use the virtual fence, we are not able to use a full three-year patch burn grazing rotation," said Anthony Capizzo, Flint Hills initiative manager with The Nature Conservancy. "This project has the potential to increase habitat diversity types to create a more complex prairie with positive effects on ranching management and economic viability." Mushrush Red Angus, a private ranch owned by Daniel Mushrush, adjoins the preserve and is a partner in the research project. Mushrush is looking to support The Nature Conservancy's conversation goals but also to ensure his business thrives. "We are using 21st-century technology to solve more than one problem at a time," Mushrush said. "By using these collars on both sides of the property lines, we protect prairie chicken leks and riparian zones and at the same time, we are grazing more efficiently and intelligently."&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651771883868.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN — Imagine cattle ranching without traditional fencing and the costly, time-consuming fencing repairs. Two Kansas State University ecologists are working to make that vision a reality while benefiting streams and birds. It's part of a multi-partner research project using virtual electronic cattle fencing in the Flint Hills of Kansas. Virtual fencing is accomplished through special cattle collars and advanced GPS tracking that can be used to create exclusion areas or to move cattle without the need for physical fence lines. <a href="https://www.nature.org/en-us/" target="_blank">The Nature Conservancy</a>&nbsp;is partnering with Kansas State University, National Park Service, Kansas Grazing Lands Coalition and private producers to determine if virtual fencing can help managers improve conservation, business and soil carbon outcomes on working cattle ranches in the United States.&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;received a $435,000 grant from The Nature Conservancy to study the conservation aspects of the project in Kansas. This work by&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;is part of a $2 million project at three sites that is also assessing how soil carbon and ranching outcomes may be improved with innovative management options made possible by virtual fencing. Additional project sites are located in Colorado and New Mexico. The Flint Hills is home to some of the last remaining tallgrass prairie in the U.S. During the five-year study,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/biology/about/people/faculty/boyle-a/" target="_blank">Alice Boyle</a>, associate professor of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/biology" target="_blank">biology</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/biology/about/people/faculty/dodds/" target="_blank">Walter Dodds</a>,&nbsp;university distinguished professor of biology, will serve as the&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;co-principal investigators. They are seeking to understand how grazing practices created by virtual fencing affect vegetation, watersheds and grassland birds on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nps.gov/tapr/index.htm" target="_blank">Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve</a>&nbsp;and the neighboring Mushrush Red Angus ranch near Strong City. The experiments will allow Boyle to assess the impacts of virtual fencing on the habitat of grassland-dependent birds, including the greater prairie chicken and the Henslow sparrow. Dodds will study the effects on riparian zones — the areas bordering bodies of water — and water quality. "It's a great opportunity for us to test how to use virtual fencing to protect the waterways in the Flint Hills," Dodds said. "With the management concerns of the tallgrass prairie and the Flint Hills, both ranchers and researchers are looking at how to align the goals of conservation and cattle production." Cattle grazing mimics the original grazing of bison, which is an important part of the prairie ecosystem. Grazing helps to create the habitat patches tallgrass birds need and is also a land management tool. This project will help uncover potential new conservation and land management practices by precisely controlling cattle movement, according to researchers. "Grazers are really an important part of the system," Boyle said. "Many of the grassland birds need the cattle. It's all in the details — the amounts, the locations and the times. This project is going to be a huge advance to be able to manage within pastures at fine spatial scales to achieve the vegetation structure the birds need." The Nature Conservancy strives to advance the use of land management tools and practices that improve prairie habitats and to support the adoption of best practices by ranchers, resource professionals and other land managers. "In the area of the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve where we will use the virtual fence, we are not able to use a full three-year patch burn grazing rotation," said Anthony Capizzo, Flint Hills initiative manager with The Nature Conservancy. "This project has the potential to increase habitat diversity types to create a more complex prairie with positive effects on ranching management and economic viability." Mushrush Red Angus, a private ranch owned by Daniel Mushrush, adjoins the preserve and is a partner in the research project. Mushrush is looking to support The Nature Conservancy's conversation goals but also to ensure his business thrives. "We are using 21st-century technology to solve more than one problem at a time," Mushrush said. "By using these collars on both sides of the property lines, we protect prairie chicken leks and riparian zones and at the same time, we are grazing more efficiently and intelligently."&nbsp;

Collaborative virtual fencing study aims to advance conservation, ranching outcomes

Rural Water District Four confirms repairs have been made. Water service has been restored.

For a second straight day there has been a water outage in Rural Water District Four. On Thursday the main line into the City of Milford at U.S. 77 and Cedar Rd. has been damaged. Water will be shut off to Cedar Estates and Acorn Resorts. Work crews are in route and will get it back on as soon as possible.&nbsp;

The water main break in the 6700 block of Old Milford Road on Wednesday was fixed.

UPDATE:Rural Water District Four confirms repairs have been made. Water service has been restored.---For a second straight day there has been a water outage in Rural Water District Four. On Thursday the main line into the City of Milford at U.S. 77 and Cedar Rd. has been damaged. Water will be shut off to Cedar Estates and Acorn Resorts. Work crews are in route and will get it back on as soon as possible.&nbsp;The water main break in the 6700 block of Old Milford Road on Wednesday was fixed.

Rural Water District 4 reports repairs have been made

&nbsp;Due to the weather and cancellations by vendors Live Well Geary County officials have postponed opening day at the market until next Thursday. There will&nbsp;not&nbsp;be a market today.&nbsp;

Fresh fruit and vegetables to sweets are among the many items that will be sold at the Farmers Market at the JC Naz Church parking lot, 1025 South Washington, in Junction City during the coming months. The first one of the season is scheduled Thursday from 4-7 p.m.

The Farmers Markets are held every Thursday through October.

&nbsp;Due to the weather and cancellations by vendors Live Well Geary County officials have postponed opening day at the market until next Thursday. There will&nbsp;not&nbsp;be a market today.&nbsp;----Fresh fruit and vegetables to sweets are among the many items that will be sold at the Farmers Market at the JC Naz Church parking lot, 1025 South Washington, in Junction City during the coming months. The first one of the season is scheduled Thursday from 4-7 p.m.The Farmers Markets are held every Thursday through October.

Farmers Market will be postponed until next Thursday

Paul Shipp, managing attorney with Flint Hills Legal Services, will present a Zoom seminar that focuses on information on low-income housing, housing assistance and their legal rights. According to the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging, the Answers for Older Kansans (AOK) seminar will happen on Thursday, May 12th at 5:30 pm.

The Low-Income Housing: A Good Legal Option for Seniors seminar will cover why low-income housing is a good choice for seniors, especially those living on fixed incomes. Shipp will also discuss the public policy behind low-income housing, why it’s a good decision for seniors who are struggling to live independently and how this type of housing often helps individuals live independently longer and delay going to nursing homes.

Rights that seniors have in low-income housing and preventing arbitrary evictions will also be discussed. Information about Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and the Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) programs will also be available.

Registrations must be made by close of business on May 11--the day before the seminar-- and can be completed at www.ncfhaaa.com/seminars or by calling 1-800-432-2703.

Paul Shipp, managing attorney with Flint Hills Legal Services, will present a Zoom seminar that focuses on information on low-income housing, housing assistance and their legal rights. According to the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging, the Answers for Older Kansans (AOK) seminar will happen on Thursday, May 12th at 5:30 pm.The Low-Income Housing: A Good Legal Option for Seniors seminar will cover why low-income housing is a good choice for seniors, especially those living on fixed incomes. Shipp will also discuss the public policy behind low-income housing, why it’s a good decision for seniors who are struggling to live independently and how this type of housing often helps individuals live independently longer and delay going to nursing homes.Rights that seniors have in low-income housing and preventing arbitrary evictions will also be discussed. Information about Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and the Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) programs will also be available.Registrations must be made by close of business on May 11--the day before the seminar-- and can be completed at www.ncfhaaa.com/seminars or by calling 1-800-432-2703.

May 12 seminar focuses on low-income housing options for older Kansans

Geary County Emergency Management has released the National Weather Service radar estimated rainfall amounts as of 5 AM Thursday. The forecast for additional rain calls for another 1.0 to 1.5 inches in some areas. Isolated, or localized, flooding will be possible with the additional rainfall later today.

Geary County Emergency Management has released the National Weather Service radar estimated rainfall amounts as of 5 AM Thursday. The forecast for additional rain calls for another 1.0 to 1.5 inches in some areas. Isolated, or localized, flooding will be possible with the additional rainfall later today.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651756886182.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Geary and Riley counties are in the target area for rain

Board of Education members have approved a revised policy allowing authorized security personnel at Junction City High School to use body cameras.&nbsp; &nbsp;Police school resource officers already wear them and there are enough cameras for use by other security staff members.

 Staff informed the Board that they can be turned on and off. For example they can be turned on when a situation is escalating, and there may be a need for a video recording as an event is unfolding.

Board of Education members have approved a revised policy allowing authorized security personnel at Junction City High School to use body cameras.&nbsp; &nbsp;Police school resource officers already wear them and there are enough cameras for use by other security staff members. Staff informed the Board that they can be turned on and off. For example they can be turned on when a situation is escalating, and there may be a need for a video recording as an event is unfolding.

School board approves use of body cameras

One dozen scholarships were awarded to USD 475 educators at this week's Celebration of Teaching banquet.

Wanda McRae Memorial Teacher Scholarships:

Geary Community Schools Foundation Teacher Scholarship

--Takara Brownridge, Paige Gasper, Kelsey Gerdes, Kylie Honeycutt, Mary McConnell, James Webb Jr., Dominique Wiedmaier

Geary Community Schools Foundation Paraeducator Scholarship

One dozen scholarships were awarded to USD 475 educators at this week's Celebration of Teaching banquet.They included:Wanda McRae Memorial Teacher Scholarships:--Heather Boland, Erica TestaDevin Family Scholarship for Teachers--Kindra AndersonRon Shandy Memorial Teacher Scholarship--Kylie HoneycuttGeary Community Schools Foundation Teacher Scholarship--Takara Brownridge, Paige Gasper, Kelsey Gerdes, Kylie Honeycutt, Mary McConnell, James Webb Jr., Dominique WiedmaierGeary Community Schools Foundation Paraeducator Scholarship--Jessica Dee

Geary Community Schools Foundation awards scholarships

Four outstanding Geary County 4-H members have been selected to receive scholarships through the Geary County 4-H program.&nbsp; Extension Agent Ginger Kopfer said that the recipients were selected based on involvement in the 4-H program and outstanding leadership and citizenship shown to 4-H, school, and the community.

--Chelsey Armbruster, Lyon Creek 4-H Club, daughter of Marjaul Ferris

$1,000 Ray and Nellie Smith 4-H Scholarship

--Kacey Butler, Lyon Creek 4-H Club, daughter of David and Karla Butler

$1,000 Flint Hills Preservation Coalition Scholarship

$2,000 Ralph E. Dietrich College Scholarship

--Jada Nabus, Humboldt 4-H Club, daughter of Randy and Lisa Nabus

--Jewels Williams, Lyon Creek 4-H Club, daughter of Marti Williams

$1,000 Paul B. and Clara B. Gwin 4-H Scholarship

Four outstanding Geary County 4-H members have been selected to receive scholarships through the Geary County 4-H program.&nbsp; Extension Agent Ginger Kopfer said that the recipients were selected based on involvement in the 4-H program and outstanding leadership and citizenship shown to 4-H, school, and the community.--Chelsey Armbruster, Lyon Creek 4-H Club, daughter of Marjaul Ferris$1,000 Ray and Nellie Smith 4-H Scholarship--Kacey Butler, Lyon Creek 4-H Club, daughter of David and Karla Butler$1,000 Flint Hills Preservation Coalition Scholarship$2,000 Ralph E. Dietrich College Scholarship--Jada Nabus, Humboldt 4-H Club, daughter of Randy and Lisa Nabus$1,000 Ray and Nellie Smith 4-H Scholarship--Jewels Williams, Lyon Creek 4-H Club, daughter of Marti Williams$1,000 Paul B. and Clara B. Gwin 4-H Scholarship

4-H scholarship recipients are in the spotlight

DRAWSKO POMORSKIE TRAINING AREA, Poland – Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 34th Armored Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division hosted the first Abrams Operations Summit with soldiers from Polish Land Forces, April 26 – 28.

The 1st Infantry Division Public Affairs Office said the summit introduced Polish Land Forces leaders to U.S. Army systems and procedures that support successful Abrams tank operations at the company and battalion level. Participating Polish soldiers learned Abrams capabilities, tactics, sustainment operations and master gunner operations.

“We developed the Abrams Operations Summit in conjunction with the Polish Land Forces to be the first step in a series of events we’re going to do to introduce the Abrams tank platform to the Polish forces,” said U.S. Army Col. Geoffrey Norman, deputy commanding officer for support of the 1st Infantry Division and director of the summit. “The purpose of the summit was to introduce the Polish Land Forces to how the U.S. Army operates with the Abrams tank.”

“We’re thankful for the cooperation during the operations summit because this event helps us understand what the needs of this equipment are and how to implement that in our structures,” said Polish Land Forces 1st Lt. Kamil Gromadzinski, a company commander with the 1st Warsaw Brigade.

“The Abrams Summit represents an important step in familiarizing and subsequently integrating the Abrams tank into the Polish army,” said U.S. Army Lt. Gen. John S. Kolasheski, commanding general of V Corps. “This is a big deal. Fielding this combat vehicle will not only increase their lethality, it will improve our collective interoperability and combat capability while further enhancing the partnership we have with Polish Land Forces.”

This summer, Polish crews will begin formal training on the M1A2SEPV2 Abrams tank and the M88A2 HERCULES recovery vehicle to become certified on the incoming tanks, enhancing interoperability and deepening the U.S. commitment to its NATO ally. While this training takes place, some Polish soldiers will continue to embed with U.S. Army units through the Abrams Apprentice Program where they will continue to learn master gunner and maintenance operations.

The Polish army purchased 250 M1A2SEPV3 Abrams tanks, along with the necessary maintenance equipment and training, to modernize their tank fleet. The sale, approved by U.S. Congress in February, will see the first delivery of tanks in late 2024, with a number of M1A2SEPV2 tanks being provided early to be used for training.

The 1st Infantry Division is among other units assigned to V Corps, America’s forward deployed corps in Europe that works alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces; execute joint, bilateral, and multinational training exercises; and provides command and control for rotational and assigned units in the European theater.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651704910194.jpeg" alt="Polish and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 34th Armored Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division pose for a photo on two M1A2 Abrams tanks after the Abrams Operation Summit at Bucierz Range, Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, April 28, 2022. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Tara Fajardo Arteaga)" />
 <figcaption>Polish and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 34th Armored Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division pose for a photo on two M1A2 Abrams tanks after the Abrams Operation Summit at Bucierz Range, Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, April 28, 2022. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Tara Fajardo Arteaga)</figcaption>
 </figure>DRAWSKO POMORSKIE TRAINING AREA, Poland – Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 34th Armored Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division hosted the first Abrams Operations Summit with soldiers from Polish Land Forces, April 26 – 28.The 1st Infantry Division Public Affairs Office said the summit introduced Polish Land Forces leaders to U.S. Army systems and procedures that support successful Abrams tank operations at the company and battalion level. Participating Polish soldiers learned Abrams capabilities, tactics, sustainment operations and master gunner operations.“We developed the Abrams Operations Summit in conjunction with the Polish Land Forces to be the first step in a series of events we’re going to do to introduce the Abrams tank platform to the Polish forces,” said U.S. Army Col. Geoffrey Norman, deputy commanding officer for support of the 1st Infantry Division and director of the summit. “The purpose of the summit was to introduce the Polish Land Forces to how the U.S. Army operates with the Abrams tank.”“We’re thankful for the cooperation during the operations summit because this event helps us understand what the needs of this equipment are and how to implement that in our structures,” said Polish Land Forces 1st Lt. Kamil Gromadzinski, a company commander with the 1st Warsaw Brigade.“The Abrams Summit represents an important step in familiarizing and subsequently integrating the Abrams tank into the Polish army,” said U.S. Army Lt. Gen. John S. Kolasheski, commanding general of V Corps. “This is a big deal. Fielding this combat vehicle will not only increase their lethality, it will improve our collective interoperability and combat capability while further enhancing the partnership we have with Polish Land Forces.”This summer, Polish crews will begin formal training on the M1A2SEPV2 Abrams tank and the M88A2 HERCULES recovery vehicle to become certified on the incoming tanks, enhancing interoperability and deepening the U.S. commitment to its NATO ally. While this training takes place, some Polish soldiers will continue to embed with U.S. Army units through the Abrams Apprentice Program where they will continue to learn master gunner and maintenance operations.The Polish army purchased 250 M1A2SEPV3 Abrams tanks, along with the necessary maintenance equipment and training, to modernize their tank fleet. The sale, approved by U.S. Congress in February, will see the first delivery of tanks in late 2024, with a number of M1A2SEPV2 tanks being provided early to be used for training.The 1st Infantry Division is among other units assigned to V Corps, America’s forward deployed corps in Europe that works alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces; execute joint, bilateral, and multinational training exercises; and provides command and control for rotational and assigned units in the European theater.

U.S. Soldiers, Polish Allies participate in Abrams Operations Summit

The water main break is in the 6700 block of Old Milford Road is taking longer than expected. Water will continue to be out this afternoon.

Geary County Rural Water District Four has a main line break in the 6700 block of Old Milford Road. Water will be shut down effecting customers along Old Milford Road mainly from the golf course to Northwood Drive. Service will be turned back on as soon as possible.

UPDATE:Water service has been restored.&nbsp;---The water main break is in the 6700 block of Old Milford Road is taking longer than expected. Water will continue to be out this afternoon.--Geary County Rural Water District Four has a main line break in the 6700 block of Old Milford Road. Water will be shut down effecting customers along Old Milford Road mainly from the golf course to Northwood Drive. Service will be turned back on as soon as possible.

Water main break fixed in Rural Water District Four

There has been discussion about the possibility of a new logo for the Geary County CVB and an ad hoc committee has been formed to work on the matter, said CVB Director Donna Price. "We're going to look at different avenues so that we can get the best logo that works for us and maybe the county and anybody else that wants to jump on board."

CVB officials this week also discussed plans for a Float Your Boat event at Milford Lake in August, and the plan for putting a new Convention and Visitors Bureau sign on the front of the Montgomery Building at 222 West 6th Street. That sign would be placed near the west end of the building front.

There has been discussion about the possibility of a new logo for the Geary County CVB and an ad hoc committee has been formed to work on the matter, said CVB Director Donna Price. "We're going to look at different avenues so that we can get the best logo that works for us and maybe the county and anybody else that wants to jump on board."CVB officials this week also discussed plans for a Float Your Boat event at Milford Lake in August, and the plan for putting a new Convention and Visitors Bureau sign on the front of the Montgomery Building at 222 West 6th Street. That sign would be placed near the west end of the building front.g&nbsp;

Geary County CVB talks about a possible new logo

Geary USD 475 Board of Education members received information&nbsp; this week from district staff on the increase in student discipline issues this school year. Student behavior challenges at the secondary level schools in Junction City are leading District leaders to look at creation of a grades 6-12 alternative program at the HD Karns Building.&nbsp;

To support that effort the Board approved the hiring of an assistant principal and four core teachers.

Thomas Wesoloski, current Interim Director of Student Support Service, explained to the Board that many students get sent to&nbsp; the Karns Building that have had major offenses at City Middle School or Junction City High School. "Our goal is to increase the numbers of&nbsp; the high school alternative program up to about 100 or 120. "The same way with the middle school kids. We're looking at probably between 50 and 70 students that have caused the majority of&nbsp; the issues at Junction City Middle School." Wesoloski added that will allow officials to help those students change their ways,&nbsp; be taught with a new SEL curriculum and get back in the Middle School at a time when officials believe the students have figured out to behave and have learned strategies to maintain themselves.

During an explanation on the need for the additional staff, Wesoloski said "it gets very dangerous in the Karns Building,"and referring to the students needing the alternative program noted, "The caliber of students that are there are not like anything I've ever seen before. There is no respect for anyone from these children, and so we need to do what's in the best interest of these students and in the best interest of this District. Because I don't want to see a lawsuit coming in because somebody got hurt because we just didn't have enough staff there." Wesoloski explains officials need to gain control over the students in order to get them to graduate.

Geary USD 475 Board of Education members received information&nbsp; this week from district staff on the increase in student discipline issues this school year. Student behavior challenges at the secondary level schools in Junction City are leading District leaders to look at creation of a grades 6-12 alternative program at the HD Karns Building.&nbsp;To support that effort the Board approved the hiring of an assistant principal and four core teachers.Thomas Wesoloski, current Interim Director of Student Support Service, explained to the Board that many students get sent to&nbsp; the Karns Building that have had major offenses at City Middle School or Junction City High School. "Our goal is to increase the numbers of&nbsp; the high school alternative program up to about 100 or 120. "The same way with the middle school kids. We're looking at probably between 50 and 70 students that have caused the majority of&nbsp; the issues at Junction City Middle School." Wesoloski added that will allow officials to help those students change their ways,&nbsp; be taught with a new SEL curriculum and get back in the Middle School at a time when officials believe the students have figured out to behave and have learned strategies to maintain themselves.During an explanation on the need for the additional staff, Wesoloski said "it gets very dangerous in the Karns Building,"and referring to the students needing the alternative program noted, "The caliber of students that are there are not like anything I've ever seen before. There is no respect for anyone from these children, and so we need to do what's in the best interest of these students and in the best interest of this District. Because I don't want to see a lawsuit coming in because somebody got hurt because we just didn't have enough staff there." Wesoloski explains officials need to gain control over the students in order to get them to graduate.

Student discipline issues receive attention in USD 475 

City of Junction City Employee Engagement Committee, has congratulated the May Employment Anniversary Recipients.

Tony Cecena-05/22/2013-9 Years of Service

Kimberly Hurley-05/30/2006-16 Years of Service

Travis Berges-05/28/2009-13 Years of Service

Randal Nabus-05/02/1996-26 Years of Service

Nicholas Nutter-05/24/2006-16 Years of Service

John Pender-05/05/1997-25 Years of Service

Bernard Schroeder-05/05/1997-25 Years of Service

John Shepek-05/05/2004-18 Years of Service

Shadd Synder-05/05/1997-25 Years of Service

Randolph Hanlon-05/01/2013-9 Years of Service

Nicholas Blake-05/10/2004-&nbsp;18 Years of Service

Dustin Murphy-05/19/2008-14 Years of Service

Joel Sunnenberg-05/23/2016-6 Years of Service

Ethan Berumen-05/03/2021-1 Year of Service

Nikki Bozarth-05/03/2021-1 Year of Service

Ray Ibarra-05/29/2012-10 Years of Service

City of Junction City Employee Engagement Committee, has congratulated the May Employment Anniversary Recipients.Building Maintenance:Tony Cecena-05/22/2013-9 Years of ServiceCustomer Service:Kimberly Hurley-05/30/2006-16 Years of ServiceFire Department:Travis Berges-05/28/2009-13 Years of ServiceSean Carr-05/29/2012-10 Years of ServiceRandal Nabus-05/02/1996-26 Years of ServiceNicholas Nutter-05/24/2006-16 Years of ServiceJohn Pender-05/05/1997-25 Years of ServiceBernard Schroeder-05/05/1997-25 Years of ServiceJohn Shepek-05/05/2004-18 Years of ServiceShadd Synder-05/05/1997-25 Years of ServiceGolf Course:Rene Mack-05/03/2021-1 Year of ServiceParks Department:Randolph Hanlon-05/01/2013-9 Years of ServicePolice Department:Nicholas Blake-05/10/2004-&nbsp;18 Years of ServiceRon Keys-05/19/2014-8 years of ServiceDustin Murphy-05/19/2008-14 Years of ServiceJoel Sunnenberg-05/23/2016-6 Years of ServicePublic Works:Ethan Berumen-05/03/2021-1 Year of ServiceNikki Bozarth-05/03/2021-1 Year of ServiceRay Ibarra-05/29/2012-10 Years of Service

Employees are recognized for years of service

USD 475 conducted a grand opening for the new playground at Sheridan Elementary School on Tuesday.&nbsp;

USD 475 conducted a grand opening for the new playground at Sheridan Elementary School on Tuesday.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651673784632.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Joshua Ferguson, Digital Media Specialist, USD 475." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Joshua Ferguson, Digital Media Specialist, USD 475.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Sheridan Elementary gets new playground

Students involved with the&nbsp;<a href="http://salina.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus</a>&nbsp;Flight Team are preparing to compete in a national collegiate aviation competition. After finishing among the top three schools at the Region VI competition in October 2021, the K-State Salina Flight Team qualified for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association Safety and Flight Evaluation Conference, also known as NIFA SAFECON. This year's competition will be May 9-14 in Columbus, Ohio, and hosted by Ohio State University. Twenty-seven schools from nine different regions around the country also qualified for the competition. "This experience is multifaceted for our pilot students," said Sebastien Joubert, K-State Salina interim chief flight instructor and the flight team's advisor. "They get to compete in their chosen profession and hone in on the skills that will make them successful in their careers. The other cool aspect of this competition is the comradery between the competing schools, where they get to interact and network with fellow pilot students, faculty and alumni from across the country. It's nice for K-State Salina students to explore beyond the bubble of their home campus." The events at NIFA SAFECON 2022 will include flight and ground events that allow competitors to showcase different strengths in navigating their aircraft. The flight events will include competitions for accuracy in landings and navigation, while the ground events entail flight planning, aircraft recognition, flight computer skills and more. K-State Salina has been successful at regional and national flying competitions. The flight team has qualified for nationals seven times in the last 10 years and won the event's Safety Award at the 2021 Region VI competition. In 2014, the university was awarded the prestigious&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.com/Archive/@K-State/July2014/K-State%20Salina%20Flight%20Team%20wins%20Loening%20Trophy%20at%20nationals.htm" target="_blank">Loening Trophy</a>, presented to the outstanding all-around collegiate aviation program in the nation. This will be the first in-person national competition since 2019 and the K-State Salina team members are eager to put their skills to the test, as well as provide the younger pilots on the team with experience in flight competition. "We are able to go perform at and experience a national competition because of the hard work of everyone on this team," said Miles Denning, junior in professional pilot and team captain,&nbsp;Salina. "We really wanted to perform well in the regional competition last fall, so we decided as a team to commit two nights a week in preparation for the event. The effort of the team paid off with us winning the event's Safety Award and earning a spot in the national competition." Eleven team members, all majoring in professional pilot, will compete for K-State Salina at nationals: Daniel Kerns, senior, and Adam Wrecke, sophomore, both from&nbsp;Olathe; Josh Murdock, sophomore,&nbsp;Overland Park; Miles Denning, junior,&nbsp;Salina; and Johannes Seberger, senior,&nbsp;Shawnee. From out of state: Derek McGuire, junior,&nbsp;Bentonville, Arkansas; Braeden Post, senior,&nbsp;Newport Beach, California; Josh Gabriel, senior,&nbsp;Kansas City, Missouri;&nbsp;Zach Wood, freshman,&nbsp;Lee's Summit, Missouri; and Aidan Rickelman, sophomore,&nbsp;Southlake, Texas. From out of country: Toshiki Nango, sophomore,&nbsp;Kyoto, Japan.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651667809622.jpeg" alt="For the seventh time in the last 10 years, the K-State Salina Flight Team has qualified for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association Safety and Flight Evaluation competition.&nbsp;Photo courtesy K-State Salina" />
 <figcaption>For the seventh time in the last 10 years, the K-State Salina Flight Team has qualified for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association Safety and Flight Evaluation competition.&nbsp;Photo courtesy K-State Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State SalinaStudents involved with the&nbsp;<a href="http://salina.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus</a>&nbsp;Flight Team are preparing to compete in a national collegiate aviation competition. After finishing among the top three schools at the Region VI competition in October 2021, the K-State Salina Flight Team qualified for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association Safety and Flight Evaluation Conference, also known as NIFA SAFECON. This year's competition will be May 9-14 in Columbus, Ohio, and hosted by Ohio State University. Twenty-seven schools from nine different regions around the country also qualified for the competition. "This experience is multifaceted for our pilot students," said Sebastien Joubert, K-State Salina interim chief flight instructor and the flight team's advisor. "They get to compete in their chosen profession and hone in on the skills that will make them successful in their careers. The other cool aspect of this competition is the comradery between the competing schools, where they get to interact and network with fellow pilot students, faculty and alumni from across the country. It's nice for K-State Salina students to explore beyond the bubble of their home campus." The events at NIFA SAFECON 2022 will include flight and ground events that allow competitors to showcase different strengths in navigating their aircraft. The flight events will include competitions for accuracy in landings and navigation, while the ground events entail flight planning, aircraft recognition, flight computer skills and more. K-State Salina has been successful at regional and national flying competitions. The flight team has qualified for nationals seven times in the last 10 years and won the event's Safety Award at the 2021 Region VI competition. In 2014, the university was awarded the prestigious&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.com/Archive/@K-State/July2014/K-State%20Salina%20Flight%20Team%20wins%20Loening%20Trophy%20at%20nationals.htm" target="_blank">Loening Trophy</a>, presented to the outstanding all-around collegiate aviation program in the nation. This will be the first in-person national competition since 2019 and the K-State Salina team members are eager to put their skills to the test, as well as provide the younger pilots on the team with experience in flight competition. "We are able to go perform at and experience a national competition because of the hard work of everyone on this team," said Miles Denning, junior in professional pilot and team captain,&nbsp;Salina. "We really wanted to perform well in the regional competition last fall, so we decided as a team to commit two nights a week in preparation for the event. The effort of the team paid off with us winning the event's Safety Award and earning a spot in the national competition." Eleven team members, all majoring in professional pilot, will compete for K-State Salina at nationals: Daniel Kerns, senior, and Adam Wrecke, sophomore, both from&nbsp;Olathe; Josh Murdock, sophomore,&nbsp;Overland Park; Miles Denning, junior,&nbsp;Salina; and Johannes Seberger, senior,&nbsp;Shawnee. From out of state: Derek McGuire, junior,&nbsp;Bentonville, Arkansas; Braeden Post, senior,&nbsp;Newport Beach, California; Josh Gabriel, senior,&nbsp;Kansas City, Missouri;&nbsp;Zach Wood, freshman,&nbsp;Lee's Summit, Missouri; and Aidan Rickelman, sophomore,&nbsp;Southlake, Texas. From out of country: Toshiki Nango, sophomore,&nbsp;Kyoto, Japan.&nbsp; &nbsp;

K-State Salina Flight Team headed to national competition

Members of the Geary USD 475 Board of Education emerged from an executive session Tuesday night and voted not to renew the administrative employment contract of former Junction City High School Principal Merrier Tartt for the 2022-2023 school year. The Board adopted a resolution pertaining to the non-renewal on a 7-0 vote. Tart must be given written notice of the action on or before May 20th.

In March the Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Reginald Eggleston, confirmed that Tartt, who had been serving as the principal at JCHS was being reassigned at that time within the district. Assistant Principal James Neff was named the Acting Principal.&nbsp;

By Dewey TerrillJC PostMembers of the Geary USD 475 Board of Education emerged from an executive session Tuesday night and voted not to renew the administrative employment contract of former Junction City High School Principal Merrier Tartt for the 2022-2023 school year. The Board adopted a resolution pertaining to the non-renewal on a 7-0 vote. Tart must be given written notice of the action on or before May 20th.In March the Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Reginald Eggleston, confirmed that Tartt, who had been serving as the principal at JCHS was being reassigned at that time within the district. Assistant Principal James Neff was named the Acting Principal.&nbsp;

School board votes not to renew the contract of the former JCHS principal

You can feel the vibration as the motorcycles ridden by Run For the Wall riders rumble into Junction City on their cross country trip from California to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C.&nbsp; That has been the case in the past and is expected to occur again when they arrive in Junction City about 6 p.m. on May 22nd.&nbsp;

Convention and Visitor's Bureau Director Donna Price said it appears that there will be more than 400 riders. "Everything is going as scheduled. We've got the park ( Heritage Park ) set up for them." Riders roll into town off I-70, and then north to the Heritage Park where there will be a brief ceremony. They stay overnight in Junction City, are provided evening and morning meals and then depart on the 23rd for their next stop on their cross country trip.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651669250613.jpeg" alt="Photo from the 2019 Run for the Wall visit to Junction City" />
 <figcaption>Photo from the 2019 Run for the Wall visit to Junction City</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostYou can feel the vibration as the motorcycles ridden by Run For the Wall riders rumble into Junction City on their cross country trip from California to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C.&nbsp; That has been the case in the past and is expected to occur again when they arrive in Junction City about 6 p.m. on May 22nd.&nbsp;Convention and Visitor's Bureau Director Donna Price said it appears that there will be more than 400 riders. "Everything is going as scheduled. We've got the park ( Heritage Park ) set up for them." Riders roll into town off I-70, and then north to the Heritage Park where there will be a brief ceremony. They stay overnight in Junction City, are provided evening and morning meals and then depart on the 23rd for their next stop on their cross country trip.

Run for the Wall will roll into Junction City

Junction City police reported in their Wednesday tour log that notices to appear have been issued to juveniles in connection with an incident at 1321 Overbrooke Drive. The notices alleged Theft and Damage to Property in four cases, plus Trespass in one of those cases. 

In another case a juvenile was arrested on a requested charge of Criminal Threat stemming from an incident at 2209 Brooke Bend.&nbsp;

Junction City police reported in their Wednesday tour log that notices to appear have been issued to juveniles in connection with an incident at 1321 Overbrooke Drive. The notices alleged Theft and Damage to Property in four cases, plus Trespass in one of those cases. In another case a juvenile was arrested on a requested charge of Criminal Threat stemming from an incident at 2209 Brooke Bend.&nbsp;

Junction City police issue notices to appear in juvenile cases

Following staff recommendations the Geary USD 475 Board of Education has approved the addition of three new positions at Junction City High School. They include a physical education teacher, an ELA teacher for the 9th grade and a Literacy Lab teacher&nbsp; for 10th through 12th grades.

On the PE teaching position staff reported that in some cases there can be 90 kids in a class. It can be a challenge.

The school board also approved the creation of a budget specialist position for up to a two-and-a-half year period. This position will be at the Devin Center and will assist with the oversight of the budgets for grant funds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648134001640.jpeg" alt="USD 475 Board of Education met at the Devin Center Tuesday night" />
 <figcaption>USD 475 Board of Education met at the Devin Center Tuesday night</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostFollowing staff recommendations the Geary USD 475 Board of Education has approved the addition of three new positions at Junction City High School. They include a physical education teacher, an ELA teacher for the 9th grade and a Literacy Lab teacher&nbsp; for 10th through 12th grades.On the PE teaching position staff reported that in some cases there can be 90 kids in a class. It can be a challenge.The school board also approved the creation of a budget specialist position for up to a two-and-a-half year period. This position will be at the Devin Center and will assist with the oversight of the budgets for grant funds.

BOE gives the green light on new positions 

Republic-Washington-Marshall-Nemaha-Brown-Cloud-Clay-Riley-Pottawatomie-Jackson-Jefferson-Ottawa-Dickinson-Geary-Morris-Wabaunsee-Shawnee-Douglas-Lyon-Osage-Franklin-Coffey-Anderson

Thunderstorms are possible beginning Wednesday afternoon. The National Weather Service said severe weather is not expected at this time.

There is a chance for thunderstorms through Thursday. Brief periods of heavy rain are possible. Some storms Thursday could be strong with small hail and gusty winds.

Republic-Washington-Marshall-Nemaha-Brown-Cloud-Clay-Riley-Pottawatomie-Jackson-Jefferson-Ottawa-Dickinson-Geary-Morris-Wabaunsee-Shawnee-Douglas-Lyon-Osage-Franklin-Coffey-AndersonThunderstorms are possible beginning Wednesday afternoon. The National Weather Service said severe weather is not expected at this time.There is a chance for thunderstorms through Thursday. Brief periods of heavy rain are possible. Some storms Thursday could be strong with small hail and gusty winds.

Rain moves into the Junction City - Manhattan forecast

Student behavior challenges in Junction City High School and City Middle School have led officials to look at creation of a grades 6-12 alternative program at the H.D. Karns Building. Dr. Reginald Eggleston,&nbsp; USD 475 Superintendent,&nbsp; noted that District officials have been meeting to discuss the structure that needs to be in place to receive these students moving forward. "I know that it's been a heavy load for one person to deal with the behavior problems that we currently have there and so, in addition to that, needing the positions in order to provide academic services to those students."

Interim Director of Student Support Service, Thomas Wesoloski, informed the school board Tuesday night that there have been more discipline issues than in the past. "This year especially, we have had lots of students that get sent to the Karns Building that have had some major offenses at their home schools, City Middle and Junction City High School. "

Wesoloski noted with one administrator at the Karns Building it is difficult when there is major action occurring in one part of the building and no one to cover the other part of the facility. He added that officials believe it's time to put an assistant principal in the building to provide safety and extra help.

The school board has approved the addition of an assistant principal and four core teachers at the Karns Building. 

Wesoloski said the four core teachers are for sixth through eighth grade students that will be taken in. He added that it will be primarily behavior students that are going to be attending the Karns Building. "To have those teachers in their content areas to teach the academics, the curriculum that's used at the two middle schools, is important to have those teachers there."

By Dewey TerrillJC PostStudent behavior challenges in Junction City High School and City Middle School have led officials to look at creation of a grades 6-12 alternative program at the H.D. Karns Building. Dr. Reginald Eggleston,&nbsp; USD 475 Superintendent,&nbsp; noted that District officials have been meeting to discuss the structure that needs to be in place to receive these students moving forward. "I know that it's been a heavy load for one person to deal with the behavior problems that we currently have there and so, in addition to that, needing the positions in order to provide academic services to those students."Interim Director of Student Support Service, Thomas Wesoloski, informed the school board Tuesday night that there have been more discipline issues than in the past. "This year especially, we have had lots of students that get sent to the Karns Building that have had some major offenses at their home schools, City Middle and Junction City High School. "Wesoloski noted with one administrator at the Karns Building it is difficult when there is major action occurring in one part of the building and no one to cover the other part of the facility. He added that officials believe it's time to put an assistant principal in the building to provide safety and extra help.The school board has approved the addition of an assistant principal and four core teachers at the Karns Building. Wesoloski said the four core teachers are for sixth through eighth grade students that will be taken in. He added that it will be primarily behavior students that are going to be attending the Karns Building. "To have those teachers in their content areas to teach the academics, the curriculum that's used at the two middle schools, is important to have those teachers there."

USD 475 Board of Education beefs up staff for the Karns Building

Sunday, May 15, beginning at 3 p.m. is the date and time for graduation at Junction City High School. The information was released by USD 475. 

This will be the first commencement at the new high school.

Sunday, May 15, beginning at 3 p.m. is the date and time for graduation at Junction City High School. The information was released by USD 475. This will be the first commencement at the new high school.

JCHS commencement will be held May 15

Three days of searching have not produced any results, but authorities have identified the suspected drowning victim that they have been searching for at Milford Lake, as Jesse Paul Sockness (white man, 41,&nbsp; brown hair, brown eyes) of Lawrence, Kansas. He was last seen swimming to shore in Milford Lake on Saturday

According to Captain David Gilbert of the Sheriff's Department the search continued Tuesday as boats from the Geary County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, Wildlife and Parks/Milford State Park, and Wild Life and Parks Law Enforcement Division took to the waters.&nbsp; The area where the subject was last seen was thoroughly searched with side scan and live view sonar east across the lake to the area of Milford State park where a makeshift water vessel was located along with the female passenger who had ridden on it with the suspected drowning victim. A couple articles of clothing believed to belong to her and Sockness were located.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Geary County Sheriff/Junction City Fire Department Dive Team deployed into the area where Sockness was last seen and conducted several large area grid searches.&nbsp; All searches to this point have been met with negative results.&nbsp; Moving forward the Sheriff’s Office will continue to search the area throughout the coming days by land and by water multiple times each day/night.

Multiple agencies deployed personnel to Milford Lake on Tuesday in the search for a possible drowning victim. So far, they have been unable to locate the man who was last seen on Saturday in the lake.

According to Captain David Gilbert of the Geary County Sheriff's Department, the agencies participating in the search on Tuesday included the Sheriff's Department personnel and their marine unit, the Geary County - Junction City Fire Dive Team, Kansas Wildlife and Parks personnel and their law enforcement division.

The search began in the Curtis Creek area on the northwest side of the reservoir on Saturday. It has continued there and also shifted farther east.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651611657234.png" alt="photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE:Three days of searching have not produced any results, but authorities have identified the suspected drowning victim that they have been searching for at Milford Lake, as Jesse Paul Sockness (white man, 41,&nbsp; brown hair, brown eyes) of Lawrence, Kansas. He was last seen swimming to shore in Milford Lake on SaturdayAccording to Captain David Gilbert of the Sheriff's Department the search continued Tuesday as boats from the Geary County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, Wildlife and Parks/Milford State Park, and Wild Life and Parks Law Enforcement Division took to the waters.&nbsp; The area where the subject was last seen was thoroughly searched with side scan and live view sonar east across the lake to the area of Milford State park where a makeshift water vessel was located along with the female passenger who had ridden on it with the suspected drowning victim. A couple articles of clothing believed to belong to her and Sockness were located.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Geary County Sheriff/Junction City Fire Department Dive Team deployed into the area where Sockness was last seen and conducted several large area grid searches.&nbsp; All searches to this point have been met with negative results.&nbsp; Moving forward the Sheriff’s Office will continue to search the area throughout the coming days by land and by water multiple times each day/night.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;----Multiple agencies deployed personnel to Milford Lake on Tuesday in the search for a possible drowning victim. So far, they have been unable to locate the man who was last seen on Saturday in the lake.According to Captain David Gilbert of the Geary County Sheriff's Department, the agencies participating in the search on Tuesday included the Sheriff's Department personnel and their marine unit, the Geary County - Junction City Fire Dive Team, Kansas Wildlife and Parks personnel and their law enforcement division.The search began in the Curtis Creek area on the northwest side of the reservoir on Saturday. It has continued there and also shifted farther east.&nbsp;

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