There has been an increase of active COVID-19 cases in Geary County. According to statistics released by the County Health Department on Tuesday there were 49 active cases in the county, up seven. There were 10 new confirmed positive cases and three new recoveries.

The numbers released by the Health Department do not include Fort Riley statistics.

There has been an increase of active COVID-19 cases in Geary County. According to statistics released by the County Health Department on Tuesday there were 49 active cases in the county, up seven. There were 10 new confirmed positive cases and three new recoveries.Three people were hospitalized.&nbsp;The numbers released by the Health Department do not include Fort Riley statistics.

Latest COVID-19 numbers are released by the Health Department

Multiple summer school programs received approval this week from the Geary USD 475 Board of Education. According to the District they include elementary, middle, middle school jump start 6th grade, middle school 6th grade transition, high school ACT Prep, high school summer credit recovery, high school 9th grade transition, middle / high school summer fine art, magnet summer camp, and extended school year for special education programs.

Board members were in session Monday at the Devin Center.

Multiple summer school programs received approval this week from the Geary USD 475 Board of Education. According to the District they include elementary, middle, middle school jump start 6th grade, middle school 6th grade transition, high school ACT Prep, high school summer credit recovery, high school 9th grade transition, middle / high school summer fine art, magnet summer camp, and extended school year for special education programs.Board members were in session Monday at the Devin Center.

School board approves summer school plans

Live Well Geary County spokesperson Susan Jagerson has announced that there will be a pop up Holiday Farmer's Market on Thursday from 3-6 p.m. at 1025 South Washington in the JC Naz parking lot. As of Tuesday 19 vendors had signed up to participate including some of the regular Farmer's Market vendors. More applications were still coming in.

Jagerson noted that items sold will range from bierocks to produce and cookies. There will vendors for homemade crafts in attendance as well with products including such products as candles, soaps, jewelry, t-shirt and sweat shirts, plus pretzels, jams and jellies. Santa Claus will also be in attendance.

Live Well Geary County hosts a seasonal farmer's market but it came to an end at the conclusion of October, explained Jagerson. "So we just wanted to do something to let people know we're still there, we're not going away. We'll be back in full force in May with our farmer's market."

Live Well Geary County spokesperson Susan Jagerson has announced that there will be a pop up Holiday Farmer's Market on Thursday from 3-6 p.m. at 1025 South Washington in the JC Naz parking lot. As of Tuesday 19 vendors had signed up to participate including some of the regular Farmer's Market vendors. More applications were still coming in.Jagerson noted that items sold will range from bierocks to produce and cookies. There will vendors for homemade crafts in attendance as well with products including such products as candles, soaps, jewelry, t-shirt and sweat shirts, plus pretzels, jams and jellies. Santa Claus will also be in attendance.Live Well Geary County hosts a seasonal farmer's market but it came to an end at the conclusion of October, explained Jagerson. "So we just wanted to do something to let people know we're still there, we're not going away. We'll be back in full force in May with our farmer's market."

Holiday Farmer's Market will be held in Junction City

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a reported theft involving a rental car in Manhattan.

Just before 10:30a.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for theft in the 5500 block of Skyway Drive in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report

Hertz Rental reported a 32-year-old man and 35-year-old woman&nbsp; rented a 2021 Dodge Charger from the company and stole the wheels and rims off the car, replacing them with different wheels and rims before returning the car. 

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $3,500.&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a reported theft involving a rental car in Manhattan.Just before 10:30a.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for theft in the 5500 block of Skyway Drive in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity reportHertz Rental reported a 32-year-old man and 35-year-old woman&nbsp; rented a 2021 Dodge Charger from the company and stole the wheels and rims off the car, replacing them with different wheels and rims before returning the car. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $3,500.&nbsp;

RCPD: Suspects stole wheels, rims off rental car

&nbsp;Junction City Athletic Training Center will present the Frozen Monkey Obstacle Course Challenge to raise funds for Upper Deck summer baseball participants.&nbsp; The date will be Sunday, Dec. 19.

People of any age can participate. The race will consist of a short jog then it goes right into the obstacle course. There will be awards inside the Athletic Training Center with a silent baked goods auction. There will also be smoked barbecue and a frozen t-shirt challenge plus door giveaways.

Rick Bazan with the Athletic Training Center said the cost of the race for participants will be $25 and includes a free t-shirt. You do not have to sign up for the race to enjoy the event. Sign up will be at the Junction City Athletic Training Center Facebook page.&nbsp;

The Center is located at 934 East 4th Street.

&nbsp;Junction City Athletic Training Center will present the Frozen Monkey Obstacle Course Challenge to raise funds for Upper Deck summer baseball participants.&nbsp; The date will be Sunday, Dec. 19.People of any age can participate. The race will consist of a short jog then it goes right into the obstacle course. There will be awards inside the Athletic Training Center with a silent baked goods auction. There will also be smoked barbecue and a frozen t-shirt challenge plus door giveaways.Rick Bazan with the Athletic Training Center said the cost of the race for participants will be $25 and includes a free t-shirt. You do not have to sign up for the race to enjoy the event. Sign up will be at the Junction City Athletic Training Center Facebook page.&nbsp;The Center is located at 934 East 4th Street.

Frozen Monkey Obstacle Course Challenge will be Dec. 19

Alison Nwafor and Allie Zook from the St. Francis Ministries “Christmas Is For Kids” were guest speakers at the Celebration of Optimist on December 8 at the Hampton Inn in Junction City. Alison is the Reintegration Supervisor and Allie is the Family Support Worker.

St. Francis Ministries have programs that help survivors of child sex trafficking, adults with disabilities, people wanting to break addictive behaviors and families trying to stay together. Their organization is an independent, faith-based nonprofit organization that has been helping children and families since 1945. Alison explained that she and others “actively seek counseling, schooling and health care for the children and counseling, parenting training and other needs not being met for parents”.

Allie told the Optimist Club members that she works primarily with the Dickinson County Team on placements, appointments, and transportation. Courts are involved and the expectations are that the parent or both parents seek and successfully complete counseling about the use of illegal drugs, domestic violence, parenting and other issues which must be addressed before child who is removed from the home may be returned. “

Allie also stated that “the range of ages for children who are removed temporarily or permanently from the home range from birth to 18. The number one reason for a child to be removed from the home in Geary County is parent’s drug abuse and mental instability. In Dickinson County it is the child’s behavior.”

When asked what the greatest need is to help with their work, Alison said “it is for more foster parents. It is especially difficult to place teens – especially those with behavioral issues.”

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club donated $200.00 to the “Christmas Is For Kids” program to purchase Christmas gifts for children or for children to give to their parents. Contributions to the St. Francis Ministries may be made by contacting the Junction City office at 785-210-1000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638979011507.jpeg" alt="( L-R )&nbsp; Allie Zook, Family Support Worker at St. Francis Ministries; Alison Nwafor, Reintegration Supervisor and Don Manley, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President." />
 <figcaption>( L-R )&nbsp; Allie Zook, Family Support Worker at St. Francis Ministries; Alison Nwafor, Reintegration Supervisor and Don Manley, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President.</figcaption>
 </figure>Alison Nwafor and Allie Zook from the St. Francis Ministries “Christmas Is For Kids” were guest speakers at the Celebration of Optimist on December 8 at the Hampton Inn in Junction City. Alison is the Reintegration Supervisor and Allie is the Family Support Worker.St. Francis Ministries have programs that help survivors of child sex trafficking, adults with disabilities, people wanting to break addictive behaviors and families trying to stay together. Their organization is an independent, faith-based nonprofit organization that has been helping children and families since 1945. Alison explained that she and others “actively seek counseling, schooling and health care for the children and counseling, parenting training and other needs not being met for parents”.Allie told the Optimist Club members that she works primarily with the Dickinson County Team on placements, appointments, and transportation. Courts are involved and the expectations are that the parent or both parents seek and successfully complete counseling about the use of illegal drugs, domestic violence, parenting and other issues which must be addressed before child who is removed from the home may be returned. “Allie also stated that “the range of ages for children who are removed temporarily or permanently from the home range from birth to 18. The number one reason for a child to be removed from the home in Geary County is parent’s drug abuse and mental instability. In Dickinson County it is the child’s behavior.”When asked what the greatest need is to help with their work, Alison said “it is for more foster parents. It is especially difficult to place teens – especially those with behavioral issues.”The JC Breakfast Optimist Club donated $200.00 to the “Christmas Is For Kids” program to purchase Christmas gifts for children or for children to give to their parents. Contributions to the St. Francis Ministries may be made by contacting the Junction City office at 785-210-1000.

St. Francis Ministries programs help children and families

MANHATTAN, Kan. – A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/" target="_blank">Kansas 4-H</a>&nbsp;international exchange program that has been on hold since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic has been given the go-ahead to restart next summer.&nbsp;

Mary Kay Munson of Geary County, who helps to coordinate 4-H exchange programs in Kansas, said the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/events-activities/global-citizenship/states-4h-international-exchange-program/index.html" target="_blank">States’ 4-H International Exchange program</a>&nbsp;offers a chance to experience cultures in several European, Asian or Latin American countries for 3-8 weeks. She said six Kansas teens have been approved to participate in summer 2022.&nbsp;

“The youth that are selected have an opportunity to understand themselves better,” Munson said. “Because they are away from their normal culture, they have to figure out what their values are and what they want to be as they mature into fully active citizenship. And they have to work on their communication skills whether or not they speak a language other than English.”&nbsp;

Six Kansas 4-H members will be notified in January of the country they will be placed in. Those six, and their country of choice, include:&nbsp;

Exchange visits in many other countries are available to Kansas youth through other programs that Kansas 4-H supports, including the&nbsp;<a href="https://ifyeusa.org/welcome.html" target="_blank">IFYE Association of the USA</a>.&nbsp;

Munson said the States’ 4-H International Exchange program pairs youth with a host family for 2-3 weeks, except in Japan where the four-week exchange can be combined with a language and culture immersion experience.&nbsp;

“We had planned a new program in Argentina last year, but it was cancelled due to the pandemic,” Munson said. “That was an opportunity where U.S. youth would spend time in a low income area in Cordoba, Argentina; participate in soccer and orchestra; and study Spanish with the Argentine kids.”&nbsp;

The exchange with Argentina is planned to begin in summer, 2022.&nbsp;

“Most countries we interact with have a program similar to 4-H,” Munson said. “So the individuals they interact with are in programs with values similar to Kansas 4-H.”&nbsp;

The Kansas contingent that will go abroad in summer 2022 will be finalized in January, according to Munson. Participating youth will have to complete the full series of vaccinations for COVID-19, as well as receive a negative PCR test within 72 hours of boarding a flight for their destination country.&nbsp;

Munson encouraged all Kansas youth to think well in advance about taking part in an international exchange. Applications for 2023 normally are expected to be due by Nov. 1, 2022.&nbsp;

“For those youth who are thinking of going, but not yet ready to apply, we have a pen pal program that starts in January and goes through the spring,” she said. “Pen pals communicate by email, messaging and frequently by audio and video technology and the Internet.”&nbsp;

In addition, host families for exchange students coming from the partner countries are needed in Kansas. Munson said the deadline to apply to be a host family is March 1

MANHATTAN, Kan. – A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/" target="_blank">Kansas 4-H</a>&nbsp;international exchange program that has been on hold since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic has been given the go-ahead to restart next summer.&nbsp;Mary Kay Munson of Geary County, who helps to coordinate 4-H exchange programs in Kansas, said the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/events-activities/global-citizenship/states-4h-international-exchange-program/index.html" target="_blank">States’ 4-H International Exchange program</a>&nbsp;offers a chance to experience cultures in several European, Asian or Latin American countries for 3-8 weeks. She said six Kansas teens have been approved to participate in summer 2022.&nbsp;“The youth that are selected have an opportunity to understand themselves better,” Munson said. “Because they are away from their normal culture, they have to figure out what their values are and what they want to be as they mature into fully active citizenship. And they have to work on their communication skills whether or not they speak a language other than English.”&nbsp;Six Kansas 4-H members will be notified in January of the country they will be placed in. Those six, and their country of choice, include:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Maddie Anderson (Norway).&nbsp;</li><li>Nathan Anderson (Romania).&nbsp;</li><li>Abigail MacGregor (Romania).&nbsp;</li><li>Isaiah Moreno (Japan).&nbsp;</li><li>Kate Rogers (Japan).&nbsp;</li><li>Jayla Wyant (Costa Rica).&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Exchange visits in many other countries are available to Kansas youth through other programs that Kansas 4-H supports, including the&nbsp;<a href="https://ifyeusa.org/welcome.html" target="_blank">IFYE Association of the USA</a>.&nbsp;Munson said the States’ 4-H International Exchange program pairs youth with a host family for 2-3 weeks, except in Japan where the four-week exchange can be combined with a language and culture immersion experience.&nbsp;“We had planned a new program in Argentina last year, but it was cancelled due to the pandemic,” Munson said. “That was an opportunity where U.S. youth would spend time in a low income area in Cordoba, Argentina; participate in soccer and orchestra; and study Spanish with the Argentine kids.”&nbsp;The exchange with Argentina is planned to begin in summer, 2022.&nbsp;“Most countries we interact with have a program similar to 4-H,” Munson said. “So the individuals they interact with are in programs with values similar to Kansas 4-H.”&nbsp;The Kansas contingent that will go abroad in summer 2022 will be finalized in January, according to Munson. Participating youth will have to complete the full series of vaccinations for COVID-19, as well as receive a negative PCR test within 72 hours of boarding a flight for their destination country.&nbsp;Munson encouraged all Kansas youth to think well in advance about taking part in an international exchange. Applications for 2023 normally are expected to be due by Nov. 1, 2022.&nbsp;“For those youth who are thinking of going, but not yet ready to apply, we have a pen pal program that starts in January and goes through the spring,” she said. “Pen pals communicate by email, messaging and frequently by audio and video technology and the Internet.”&nbsp;In addition, host families for exchange students coming from the partner countries are needed in Kansas. Munson said the deadline to apply to be a host family is March 1

4-H international exchange program set to restart in 2022 

Megan York’s nighttime photo of the “Old Trooper” statue on Fort Riley’s Cavalry Parade Field was picked as the November winner in the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley photo of the month contest. Megan’s photo is currently on display in Victory Hall, the 1st&nbsp;Infantry Division Headquarters build

December’s photo contest is underway, with entries due by 5 p.m., Dec. 27. December’s theme is “Pets with Personality” and residents of Fort Riley and surrounding communities should submit a photo that captures the family pet’s personality.

To enter a photo in the contest, follow the 1st Infantry Division on Instagram, like the competition announcement and submit your photo via direct message to the 1 ID Instagram page. The contest is open to all residents of the Flint Hills region.

Each month’s winning photo will be featured on the 1 ID Instagram page on the first Friday of the following month. A print of the winning photo will be displayed in Victory Hall for the remainder of that month. The monthly contest will continue through February.

This contest is not sponsored, administered, or associated with Instagram, Inc. The winning photo does not imply U.S. Army endorsement. Entrants must be 13 years and older, submit their own creative work, and that work must be in keeping with Army values and the monthly theme.

Megan York’s nighttime photo of the “Old Trooper” statue on Fort Riley’s Cavalry Parade Field was picked as the November winner in the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley photo of the month contest. Megan’s photo is currently on display in Victory Hall, the 1st&nbsp;Infantry Division Headquarters build<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638966861424.jpeg" alt="&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Megan York stands with a print of her winning photo in Victory Hall at Fort Riley.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Megan York stands with a print of her winning photo in Victory Hall at Fort Riley.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>December’s photo contest is underway, with entries due by 5 p.m., Dec. 27. December’s theme is “Pets with Personality” and residents of Fort Riley and surrounding communities should submit a photo that captures the family pet’s personality.To enter a photo in the contest, follow the 1st Infantry Division on Instagram, like the competition announcement and submit your photo via direct message to the 1 ID Instagram page. The contest is open to all residents of the Flint Hills region.Each month’s winning photo will be featured on the 1 ID Instagram page on the first Friday of the following month. A print of the winning photo will be displayed in Victory Hall for the remainder of that month. The monthly contest will continue through February.This contest is not sponsored, administered, or associated with Instagram, Inc. The winning photo does not imply U.S. Army endorsement. Entrants must be 13 years and older, submit their own creative work, and that work must be in keeping with Army values and the monthly theme.

1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley name "Photo of the Month" winner for November

Konza Prairie Community Health Center was recently awarded grant funding from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to improve healthcare technology and access to care.

Konza received $488,176 for connected devices and technology services that will expand telehealth services in the region. Telehealth has become a progressively valuable tool for patients to access care throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Connected devices and improved information technology infrastructure enables Konza providers to treat patients remotely not only for COVID-19, but also for other chronic health conditions as well.

“Technology continues to be an increasingly important factor in healthcare delivery,” said Lee Wolf, Konza CEO. “At Konza, we like to say we are just people taking care of people. To do that, we must ensure our information technology infrastructure and the resources available to staff are the highest quality and up to date. This funding will enable Konza to better equip our patients to monitor their chronic conditions from home and expand access to high quality remote care throughout the region.”

As a Federally Qualified Health Center, Konza clinics have been providing telehealth services since before the COVID-19 pandemic. “Konza provides care to patients from more than 35 zip codes throughout the region,” said Dani Hallgren, Konza COO. “The COVID-19 pandemic increased the importance of telehealth services, but there has always been a need for convenient, high-quality healthcare options in rural and remote areas of Kansas. This funding gives our clinics the opportunity to offer patients healthcare in a way that works best for them.”

The funding comes from the Federal Communications Commission’s COVID-19 Telehealth Program – part of the CARES Act – which awarded 75 health care providers nationwide with $42,163,705 in funding for telecommunications services, information services, and connected devices necessary to enable telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Konza is the only Kansas healthcare provider to receive an award for this round of funding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638910592704.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Konza Prairie Community Health Center was recently awarded grant funding from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to improve healthcare technology and access to care.Konza received $488,176 for connected devices and technology services that will expand telehealth services in the region. Telehealth has become a progressively valuable tool for patients to access care throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Connected devices and improved information technology infrastructure enables Konza providers to treat patients remotely not only for COVID-19, but also for other chronic health conditions as well.“Technology continues to be an increasingly important factor in healthcare delivery,” said Lee Wolf, Konza CEO. “At Konza, we like to say we are just people taking care of people. To do that, we must ensure our information technology infrastructure and the resources available to staff are the highest quality and up to date. This funding will enable Konza to better equip our patients to monitor their chronic conditions from home and expand access to high quality remote care throughout the region.”As a Federally Qualified Health Center, Konza clinics have been providing telehealth services since before the COVID-19 pandemic. “Konza provides care to patients from more than 35 zip codes throughout the region,” said Dani Hallgren, Konza COO. “The COVID-19 pandemic increased the importance of telehealth services, but there has always been a need for convenient, high-quality healthcare options in rural and remote areas of Kansas. This funding gives our clinics the opportunity to offer patients healthcare in a way that works best for them.”The funding comes from the Federal Communications Commission’s COVID-19 Telehealth Program – part of the CARES Act – which awarded 75 health care providers nationwide with $42,163,705 in funding for telecommunications services, information services, and connected devices necessary to enable telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic.Konza is the only Kansas healthcare provider to receive an award for this round of funding.

Konza Receives FCC Grant to Support Telehealth Services

MARSHALL COUNTY – The Marshall County Sheriff’s Office reported that 72-year-old Jim Knecht was located tonight in Nebraska. He is now safe.

MARSHALL COUNTY –The Kansas Bureau of Investigation has issued a statewide Silver Alert for a missing 72-year-old Marysville man.

The whereabouts of James “Jim” W. Knecht, 72, are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate him, according to a media release from the KBI.

Knecht left his home Tuesday morning, Dec.7, at around 8:30 a.m., and was last seen at approximately 10 a.m. at the C.J. East gas station along Highway 36 in Marysville, Kansas. Knecht is driving a blue 2002 Buick Century with Kansas tag 240NEX. He may be traveling toward Iowa.

Knecht has dementia, and takes medication that he does not have with him.

Knecht is a white male, approximately 6 foot-1, and weighing 280 pounds. He has blue eyes and is bald. He has a red birthmark on his forehead. Knecht was last known wearing a black zip-up jacket and blue jeans.

If you see Jim Knecht, or his vehicle, please call 911 immediately. If you have other information about his whereabouts, please call the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office at 785-562-3141.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638921682746.png" alt="Knecht-photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Knecht-photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>MARSHALL COUNTY – The Marshall County Sheriff’s Office reported that 72-year-old Jim Knecht was located tonight in Nebraska. He is now safe.---------MARSHALL COUNTY –The Kansas Bureau of Investigation has issued a statewide Silver Alert for a missing 72-year-old Marysville man.The whereabouts of James “Jim” W. Knecht, 72, are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate him, according to a media release from the KBI.Knecht left his home Tuesday morning, Dec.7, at around 8:30 a.m., and was last seen at approximately 10 a.m. at the C.J. East gas station along Highway 36 in Marysville, Kansas. Knecht is driving a blue 2002 Buick Century with Kansas tag 240NEX. He may be traveling toward Iowa.Knecht has dementia, and takes medication that he does not have with him.Knecht is a white male, approximately 6 foot-1, and weighing 280 pounds. He has blue eyes and is bald. He has a red birthmark on his forehead. Knecht was last known wearing a black zip-up jacket and blue jeans.If you see Jim Knecht, or his vehicle, please call 911 immediately. If you have other information about his whereabouts, please call the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office at 785-562-3141.

Silver Alert canceled, missing Marysville man found safe

MANHATTAN —On Tuesday, a federal judge in Georgia blocked President Joe Biden's executive order&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/09/09/executive-order-on-ensuring-adequate-covid-safety-protocols-for-federal-contractors/" target="_blank">requiring the COVID-19 vaccine for federal employees, contractors and others</a>. The judge's action puts a hiatus on the mandate for all states, including Kansas.

Effective immediately, Kansas State University will pause its COVID-19 vaccine requirement. At this time, employees do not need to take any further action related to the vaccine requirement, according to University President Richard Myers.

The university will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the vaccine requirement through K-State Today and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/" target="_blank">COVID-19 website.</a>

The health and safety of our faculty, staff and students remains our top priority. I wish to thank everyone in the K-State community who is vaccinated. We encourage people to get vaccinated if they have not done so already. Vaccines are free and widely available. They have been proven safe after millions of inoculations and continue to offer strong protection against COVID-19.

To get vaccinated, students, faculty and staff can contact Lafene Health Center, their local health department, local pharmacies or private physicians.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/vaccine/how-to-find/index.html" target="_blank">Learn about other ways to find a COVID-19 vaccine</a>.

MANHATTAN —On Tuesday, a federal judge in Georgia blocked President Joe Biden's executive order&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/09/09/executive-order-on-ensuring-adequate-covid-safety-protocols-for-federal-contractors/" target="_blank">requiring the COVID-19 vaccine for federal employees, contractors and others</a>. The judge's action puts a hiatus on the mandate for all states, including Kansas.Effective immediately, Kansas State University will pause its COVID-19 vaccine requirement. At this time, employees do not need to take any further action related to the vaccine requirement, according to University President Richard Myers.The university will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the vaccine requirement through K-State Today and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/" target="_blank">COVID-19 website.</a>The health and safety of our faculty, staff and students remains our top priority. I wish to thank everyone in the K-State community who is vaccinated. We encourage people to get vaccinated if they have not done so already. Vaccines are free and widely available. They have been proven safe after millions of inoculations and continue to offer strong protection against COVID-19.To get vaccinated, students, faculty and staff can contact Lafene Health Center, their local health department, local pharmacies or private physicians.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/vaccine/how-to-find/index.html" target="_blank">Learn about other ways to find a COVID-19 vaccine</a>.=

Kansas State University pauses COVID-19 vaccine requirement

MANHATTAN — Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) recognized members and supporters at its 103rd annual meeting, Dec. 5-6 in Manhattan. KFB presented two Kansans with Distinguished Service awards for their exemplary contributions to agriculture in the state.

The organization also presented 12 Friends of Agriculture awards. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to Kansas Farm Bureau and agriculture. They are: &nbsp;

Ray and Susan Flickner, McPherson County,&nbsp;received the Kansas Farm Bureau Natural Resources Award, which goes to the farm family who exemplifies good land stewardship. At the Flickner Innovation Farm, the goal is to preserve and improve the natural resources like soil, water, trees and wildlife so they can provide for the next generation. Water quality is central to the Flickners’ conservation efforts. They moved away from anhydrous applications in the early 1980s and have implemented minimum and conservation tillage for the past four years. Experimentation with subsurface drip irrigation and precision mobile drip irrigation also has led to more efficient water use, which goes to the farm’s motto of “Growing for the future.” Mitch Messner,&nbsp;Agency Manager for Farm Bureau Financial Services, received KFB’s Partnership Award. This award recognizes someone from Farm Bureau Financial Services who has gone above and beyond for the state’s largest farm organization. In his role he works closely with agents and has done a tremendous job connecting with county Farm Bureaus in his area. Agents, volunteers and members know he can be counted on when help is needed or a problem arises.

MANHATTAN — Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) recognized members and supporters at its 103rd annual meeting, Dec. 5-6 in Manhattan. KFB presented two Kansans with Distinguished Service awards for their exemplary contributions to agriculture in the state.<ul>
 <li>Bob Haselwood, Shawnee County, was honored for more than four decades of service to the agriculture industry. As a farmer first, Haselwood raises soybeans, corn and wheat on his farm in Berryton. Since he was elected to the Kansas Soybean Commission in 2005, his focus has been on bringing value back to Kansas soybean farmers through investments in agronomic research, developing uses for soybeans and building demand for soy products. Haselwood is also a former director of the United Soybean Board, where he strengthened the soybean checkoff’s work and promoted the crop in 22 countries across the world. His legacy of service has also impacted Kansas Farm Bureau where he has served on the membership committee, resolutions committee, VOTE FBF and the oilseeds committee.</li><li>Don Landoll, Marshall County,&nbsp;was recognized for 60 years of service through Landoll Company, LLC, transforming the former blacksmith and welding shop into a leading agricultural and industrial manufacturing company employing more than 900 people across the region. Landoll is a strong supporter of his community and is a financial contributor to the local, state and national FFA organizations. He has contributed funds to the Marysville Library and supported major renovations to the KMYZ airport. He’s served on the Kansas Health Foundation and on the Transportation 2000 board, which led to getting a major overpass and airport expansion for Marysville.</li>
 </ul> The organization also presented 12 Friends of Agriculture awards. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to Kansas Farm Bureau and agriculture. They are: &nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Dr. Donald Coover, Neosho County,&nbsp;spent 40 years helping animals and producers through artificial insemination, embryo transfers and training the next generation of animal caretakers. Dr. Coover’s work has been an immense help to Kansas, the nation and the agricultural industry.</li><li>Kim Curran, Crawford County,&nbsp;has helped cultivate the future of ag by teaching at USD 248 in Girard and always looks for opportunities to bring agriculture into the classroom. Kim has also served on the Crawford County Farm Bureau board of directors and is a 4-H youth club and project leader.</li><li>Jim and Terri Sue DeGeer, Neosho County,&nbsp;have served the agriculture community together for 35 years. Jim has served on statewide committees for Kansas Farm Bureau including the Young Farmers &amp; Ranchers (YF&amp;R) Committee and Beef Committee. Terri Sue has been a 4-H project leader and volunteer, in addition to 30 years guiding students as a school counselor.</li><li>Charlie Foltz,&nbsp;Anderson County,&nbsp;has made an impact on Kansas agriculture for more than a half century, serving in several roles on the Anderson County Farm Bureau board almost continuously since 1967. Foltz also spent nearly two decades on the board of directors for the Kansas Corn Growers Association.</li><li>Jarold Hayden, Cloud County,&nbsp;has worked tirelessly for his community, Kansas and agriculture for seven decades. Hayden has helped shape KFB policies as a longtime board member of Cloud County Farm Bureau, KFB’s VOTE FBF and Resolutions Committee and helped the organization forge a stronger relationship with (retired) Sen. Pat Roberts.</li><li>Joe Leibbrandt, Butler County,&nbsp;has been a passionate advocate for ag education for more than 40 years, including five years at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville directing the Swine Research Farm. He’s also worked for Kansas Research and Extension, has served as a 4-H representative at the Kansas State swine show and is agricultural department head at Butler County Community College.</li><li>Cheri Miller, Wyandotte County,&nbsp;has helped Kansans protect the land they use for 15 years by analyzing environmental reviews for the Wyandotte County Unified Government for special use permits, zoning requests, and evaluation of erosion control as well as soil and water quality. She also assists small scale and specialty crop producers in registering with the USDA.</li><li>Sue Rowland, Marshall County, has supported the agricultural community for 55 years as a business teacher at Marysville High School, where she helped prepare students for a future beyond high school. She’s also a founding member of the Kansas FFA Foundation and serves on the local hospital board, the Marshall County Agriculture Extension board and the Marshall County Conservation board.</li><li>Leroy Russell, Shawnee County,&nbsp;has served as a representative for agriculture for 43 years, educating future agriculturists in ag education and FFA at Washburn Rural. He’s served on the Shawnee County Farm Bureau board in numerous positions and held leadership roles on the Kansas Extension Agents Association and the Kansas 4-H Agents Association.</li><li>Don Schroeder, Harvey County,&nbsp;has served in multiple roles in supporting farmers and ranchers from the local to state level. He served in the Kansas House of Representatives from 2006 to 2018, and spent time on the Kansas Soybean Association board, Kansas Corn Growers Association board, and currently serves as a Harvey County Commissioner.</li><li>Dale Strickler, Allen County,&nbsp;has served the agriculture community for more than 30 years as an educator. He coached multiple agricultural competitive teams at Cloud County Community College, where the crops team brought home several national titles. He has also hosted farm tours that have brought more than 1,000 participants from all over the United States and the world to learn about the practices on his operation.</li><li>Ron and Chris Wilson, Riley County,&nbsp;have been dedicated to supporting efforts with Kansas Farm Bureau and developing rural Kansas for 40 years. Since 1990 Ron has served as the director of the Huck Boyd Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University. He also performs cowboy poetry. Chris is an 11th&nbsp;generation farmer. She also serves as the president of the Food and Agriculture Network, and she previously served as deputy secretary and general counsel of the Kansas Department of Agriculture.</li>
 </ul> Ray and Susan Flickner, McPherson County,&nbsp;received the Kansas Farm Bureau Natural Resources Award, which goes to the farm family who exemplifies good land stewardship. At the Flickner Innovation Farm, the goal is to preserve and improve the natural resources like soil, water, trees and wildlife so they can provide for the next generation. Water quality is central to the Flickners’ conservation efforts. They moved away from anhydrous applications in the early 1980s and have implemented minimum and conservation tillage for the past four years. Experimentation with subsurface drip irrigation and precision mobile drip irrigation also has led to more efficient water use, which goes to the farm’s motto of “Growing for the future.” Mitch Messner,&nbsp;Agency Manager for Farm Bureau Financial Services, received KFB’s Partnership Award. This award recognizes someone from Farm Bureau Financial Services who has gone above and beyond for the state’s largest farm organization. In his role he works closely with agents and has done a tremendous job connecting with county Farm Bureaus in his area. Agents, volunteers and members know he can be counted on when help is needed or a problem arises.

KFB honored members, friends at 103rd annual meeting

This coming Friday, December 10th, Dorothy Bramlage Public&nbsp;Library&nbsp;will be closing at 4:00pm to host their staff Christmas party.

Due to the Christmas and New Year Holidays, the Dorothy Bramlage Public&nbsp;Library&nbsp;will be closed Friday, December 24th&nbsp;through Sunday December 26th&nbsp;and from Friday, December 31st&nbsp;through January 1st.&nbsp;Library&nbsp;Director Susan Moyer said the outdoor book drop located on the building wall at the north entrance will be open and monitored during that time so all items can still be returned.

For more information or if you have any questions please contact Susan Moyer at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:susanm@jclib.org" target="_blank">susanm@jclib.org</a>&nbsp;or call 785-238-4311.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

This coming Friday, December 10th, Dorothy Bramlage Public&nbsp;Library&nbsp;will be closing at 4:00pm to host their staff Christmas party. Due to the Christmas and New Year Holidays, the Dorothy Bramlage Public&nbsp;Library&nbsp;will be closed Friday, December 24th&nbsp;through Sunday December 26th&nbsp;and from Friday, December 31st&nbsp;through January 1st.&nbsp;Library&nbsp;Director Susan Moyer said the outdoor book drop located on the building wall at the north entrance will be open and monitored during that time so all items can still be returned. For more information or if you have any questions please contact Susan Moyer at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:susanm@jclib.org" target="_blank">susanm@jclib.org</a>&nbsp;or call 785-238-4311.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dorothy Bramlage Public Library announces Holiday Closings

After a lengthy discussion that seemed to go around in circles the Geary USD 475 Board of Education settled on a response Monday night at the Devin Center to a City proposal to acquire the former Junction City High School site for $1&nbsp; for future development of a possible future sports complex, library, natatorium project. City acquisition would occur after demolition of the old school building. The project might have retained facilities such as the football turf and running track along with the tennis courts.

Board member David Walker offered the motion that received approval. "We'll commit to the City that we won't look at any other stakeholder or any other RFP or purchase price. We're committed to the City to work with them for this site. " Walker noted in the future the Library or YMCA might want to change their buildings, and the school district would still work with them to do that.

Local businessman Kendall Schoenrock has led the charge on the project to redevelop the former high school site in the future. The response was not a definite endorsement of that specific project. During discussion before the vote he noted that he had lived in the community for a long time. "I've heard the statement that we just can't get out of our own way. We responded to the RFP as presented ( by the District ). We have a number of stakeholders who bought into that vision, we have the City on board with the city commissioners endorsing this proposal. I think it's a sold proposal, it has merit for the taxpayers and the citizens. " But that specific proposal did not receive full Board approval.

Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel said they're not sure how to read the action by the school board. "I know there's some talk about the District building some buildings of their own. They did share late yesterday afternoon with me a plan to put a couple of buildings out there. We don't know where or how we'd all do this. " Dinkel added he thinks it will come down to what the school district wants to put on the site, and how or whether it could fit in.

By Dewey TerrillAfter a lengthy discussion that seemed to go around in circles the Geary USD 475 Board of Education settled on a response Monday night at the Devin Center to a City proposal to acquire the former Junction City High School site for $1&nbsp; for future development of a possible future sports complex, library, natatorium project. City acquisition would occur after demolition of the old school building. The project might have retained facilities such as the football turf and running track along with the tennis courts.Board member David Walker offered the motion that received approval. "We'll commit to the City that we won't look at any other stakeholder or any other RFP or purchase price. We're committed to the City to work with them for this site. " Walker noted in the future the Library or YMCA might want to change their buildings, and the school district would still work with them to do that.Local businessman Kendall Schoenrock has led the charge on the project to redevelop the former high school site in the future. The response was not a definite endorsement of that specific project. During discussion before the vote he noted that he had lived in the community for a long time. "I've heard the statement that we just can't get out of our own way. We responded to the RFP as presented ( by the District ). We have a number of stakeholders who bought into that vision, we have the City on board with the city commissioners endorsing this proposal. I think it's a sold proposal, it has merit for the taxpayers and the citizens. " But that specific proposal did not receive full Board approval.Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel said they're not sure how to read the action by the school board. "I know there's some talk about the District building some buildings of their own. They did share late yesterday afternoon with me a plan to put a couple of buildings out there. We don't know where or how we'd all do this. " Dinkel added he thinks it will come down to what the school district wants to put on the site, and how or whether it could fit in.

BOE responds to City proposal

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Monday in Riley County.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report,&nbsp;a 2018 Subaru Impreza driven by Anousan Woodward, 21, of Manhattan rear-ended a 2015 Nissan Rogue driven by Tyler Mielcarek, 28, of Manhattan who was sitting at a stoplight&nbsp;the intersection of E. Riley Ave. and Skyway Dr. outside Ogden.

EMS transported Woodward to Via Christi for treatment of rib injuries. Mielcarek was not injured. The RCPD released no additional information.

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Monday in Riley County.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report,&nbsp;a 2018 Subaru Impreza driven by Anousan Woodward, 21, of Manhattan rear-ended a 2015 Nissan Rogue driven by Tyler Mielcarek, 28, of Manhattan who was sitting at a stoplight&nbsp;the intersection of E. Riley Ave. and Skyway Dr. outside Ogden.EMS transported Woodward to Via Christi for treatment of rib injuries. Mielcarek was not injured. The RCPD released no additional information.

Manhattan man hospitalized after rear-end crash

MANHATTAN — A second <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/gaysha-alfred-funeral-expenses?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=copy_link&amp;utm_source=customer">online fundraiser </a>has been established to assist the family of a Manhattan teen who died in a weekend accident.

"The family is already struggling financially and we ask for any help in this shock of losing the oldest of 6 siblings,' according to Brittany Mansker who established the<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/gaysha-alfred-funeral-expenses?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=copy_link&amp;utm_source=customer"> GoFundMe page.</a>

Earlier on Monday, the sister of a 14-year-old Kenni Cantu who died the accident established <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/kenni-cantus-funeral?member=15777861&amp;sharetype=teams&amp;utm_campaign=p_na+share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=facebook">a fundraiser t</a>o help his family cover funeral expenses.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Chevy Trailblazer driven by&nbsp; Paris Eboni&nbsp;Burgess, 17, Manhattan, was eastbound on Kansas 18 Highway (Fort Riley Boulevard) at Scenic Drive.

The driver lost control of the SUV. The vehicle entered the south ditch,&nbsp; struck a concrete bridge pillar and caught fire.

Two passengers identified as 14-year-old Kenni&nbsp; Cantu and 14-year-old&nbsp; Gaysha&nbsp;Alfred both of Manhattan, were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to Frontier Forensics.

EMS transported&nbsp;Burgess&nbsp; and passengers Alecia Reyna&nbsp; Smith Haynes, 13, Manhattan, to Via Christi in Manhattan and 14-year-old Jean Carlos&nbsp;Vazques-Ponce of Manhattan to KU Medical Center.

As of Monday morning, $9,025 of the fund’s $25,000 goal has been raised.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638888641845.png" alt="Gaysha Alfred-photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Gaysha Alfred-photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN — A second <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/gaysha-alfred-funeral-expenses?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=copy_link&amp;utm_source=customer">online fundraiser </a>has been established to assist the family of a Manhattan teen who died in a weekend accident."The family is already struggling financially and we ask for any help in this shock of losing the oldest of 6 siblings,' according to Brittany Mansker who established the<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/gaysha-alfred-funeral-expenses?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=copy_link&amp;utm_source=customer"> GoFundMe page.</a>Earlier on Monday, the sister of a 14-year-old Kenni Cantu who died the accident established <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/kenni-cantus-funeral?member=15777861&amp;sharetype=teams&amp;utm_campaign=p_na+share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=facebook">a fundraiser t</a>o help his family cover funeral expenses.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638812130360.png" alt="Kenni Cantu-photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Kenni Cantu-photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Chevy Trailblazer driven by&nbsp; Paris Eboni&nbsp;Burgess, 17, Manhattan, was eastbound on Kansas 18 Highway (Fort Riley Boulevard) at Scenic Drive.The driver lost control of the SUV. The vehicle entered the south ditch,&nbsp; struck a concrete bridge pillar and caught fire.Two passengers identified as 14-year-old Kenni&nbsp; Cantu and 14-year-old&nbsp; Gaysha&nbsp;Alfred both of Manhattan, were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to Frontier Forensics.EMS transported&nbsp;Burgess&nbsp; and passengers Alecia Reyna&nbsp; Smith Haynes, 13, Manhattan, to Via Christi in Manhattan and 14-year-old Jean Carlos&nbsp;Vazques-Ponce of Manhattan to KU Medical Center.As of Monday morning, $9,025 of the fund’s $25,000 goal has been raised.

2nd online fundraiser to help families of teens who died in crash

Geary Community Hospital was a key focus during a joint Geary County Commission - area legislative delegation conversation Monday.&nbsp; State representatives Lonnie Clark and Dave Baker along with State Senator Jeff Longbine met with the commission at the County Office Building.

Legislators noted that medicaid expansion approval would help GCH meet its needs, but were not optimistic that would occur in the upcoming session.&nbsp;

Clark said the hospital had a 10-12 year period of bad management. "Prior hospital administrators, I'm not talking about the current ones because the County is involved in it now. But in prior years the hospital administrator made all the calls. The County didn't have any say on what was being spent, how it was being spent or have any oversight over it." Clark added thinks if the County is going to own the building and the property, they need to have some say in some of the issues that it takes to keep the hospital up and running right."

GCH currently faces a need for $28 million in maintenance over a four-year period, and there are also bonds from the most recent expansion that need to be retired as well.&nbsp;

When asked if the legislature could do anything to help on the maintenance bill Clark said he has been trying but it's not something for which there has been a budget so it has to be taken from some other source. "We've worked on it, I've talked to the hospital association about help. Whether or not we can drive a bill through that would actually create revenue for that I don't know yet. " That would have to occur in the next session.

County Commission Chair Trish Giordano believes Town Hall meeting are needed so the public will know the available options. When it comes to fundraising there has been study about possible grant funds, and an option might be to partner with some people. Options are being looked at, but no final action has occurred.

By Dewey TerrillGeary Community Hospital was a key focus during a joint Geary County Commission - area legislative delegation conversation Monday.&nbsp; State representatives Lonnie Clark and Dave Baker along with State Senator Jeff Longbine met with the commission at the County Office Building.Legislators noted that medicaid expansion approval would help GCH meet its needs, but were not optimistic that would occur in the upcoming session.&nbsp;Clark said the hospital had a 10-12 year period of bad management. "Prior hospital administrators, I'm not talking about the current ones because the County is involved in it now. But in prior years the hospital administrator made all the calls. The County didn't have any say on what was being spent, how it was being spent or have any oversight over it." Clark added thinks if the County is going to own the building and the property, they need to have some say in some of the issues that it takes to keep the hospital up and running right."GCH currently faces a need for $28 million in maintenance over a four-year period, and there are also bonds from the most recent expansion that need to be retired as well.&nbsp;When asked if the legislature could do anything to help on the maintenance bill Clark said he has been trying but it's not something for which there has been a budget so it has to be taken from some other source. "We've worked on it, I've talked to the hospital association about help. Whether or not we can drive a bill through that would actually create revenue for that I don't know yet. " That would have to occur in the next session.County Commission Chair Trish Giordano believes Town Hall meeting are needed so the public will know the available options. When it comes to fundraising there has been study about possible grant funds, and an option might be to partner with some people. Options are being looked at, but no final action has occurred.

GCH financial issues receive scrutiny during County - Legislative discussion

Two departing members of the Geary USD 475 Board of Education were recognized at the beginning of the school board meeting at the Devin Center Monday evening.

Rina Neal and David Walker are near the end of their four-year terms on the Board.&nbsp;

Their terms come to an end in early January.

Two departing members of the Geary USD 475 Board of Education were recognized at the beginning of the school board meeting at the Devin Center Monday evening.Rina Neal and David Walker are near the end of their four-year terms on the Board.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638845451660.jpeg" alt="Rina Neal" />
 <figcaption>Rina Neal</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638845470438.jpeg" alt="David Walker" />
 <figcaption>David Walker</figcaption>
 </figure>Their terms come to an end in early January.

Outgoing BOE members are recognized 

Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancher Do looks really matter? This topic is better suited to philosophers, but a series of observations from my trip to the Baltics earlier this year with Kansas Farm Bureau’s Casten Fellows Program has had me questioning my belief that if something works, it does not matter if it looks good. I have pondered the value of aesthetics in the spaces where we spend our time and the possessions with which we fill them. Maybe the most important part of this realization has been that the aesthetics of the environments we create and spend time in are not just a reflection of a person, they also reflect into the person. This realization came slowly, pieced together from some of the most obvious parts of our trip to this northern region of Europe. Everywhere we went we saw flowers. Not small or neutral toned flowers, but big, vibrant flowers. We knew people in this region had a particular connection to nature, but this was also much further north than where I grew up in Wisconsin. I know how hard it is to grow beautiful flowers there because it is a cold region. Why would people in a cold region have so many beautiful, colorful flowers? It was more than flowers and artfully designed landscaping. Everywhere I looked, there was beauty and happiness; greenhouses dotting most back yards; spaces that were well kept, cozy and lived-in. The pride and joy the Baltic people had in their homes, businesses and whole country was obvious everywhere we looked. The most surprising part of the realization came close to the end of the trip: There was a constant feeling of contentment, relaxation and joy. Even after almost two weeks of travel, experience overload and long days, I just felt happy and peaceful because everything was so nice. The Baltics are not a country filled with material possessions or dependent on a need for new fueled by vanity or greed. They appreciate old and historic because it is what they have. The realities of communism during Soviet occupation are a not so distant memory. They fought for the freedom to make things their own, they are grateful to be able to ability to maintain them and want to live in places that are functional, beautiful and bring them joy. I returned home with a burst of energy to show more pride of ownership and appreciation for my own home, but knew I needed to start small because I was on my own for the project during harvest. I decided to fix the very short section of fence that adorns the entrance to our driveway. It had been rep­­­­ainted so many times it was a decaying eyesore. I don’t have space to recount the whole humorous story, but you can imagine how it went by my new title of “Lumberjack Princess.” Tired, dirty and a little banged-up, I knew that my observations had been correct. My idea, my work, my perseverance, made the fence even more beautiful in the moment. Even after a few months, I smile every time I drive in the yard or think about the project because I made that. And I know now that rest of the world can somehow tell that, even if it is just from the way it looks. My momentum from the fence build has grown in this Christmas season. A visitor or passerby at my home will now see a site I never expected to create at a farmhouse so far off the beaten path: an amateur-built, festively decorated welcoming fence. The effort we make with the look of our world shows pride and brings joy far beyond the recognition that might come from the outside world. My efforts, small or large, are not to impress the world, but for my own fulfillment.

Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancher Do looks really matter? This topic is better suited to philosophers, but a series of observations from my trip to the Baltics earlier this year with Kansas Farm Bureau’s Casten Fellows Program has had me questioning my belief that if something works, it does not matter if it looks good. I have pondered the value of aesthetics in the spaces where we spend our time and the possessions with which we fill them. Maybe the most important part of this realization has been that the aesthetics of the environments we create and spend time in are not just a reflection of a person, they also reflect into the person. This realization came slowly, pieced together from some of the most obvious parts of our trip to this northern region of Europe. Everywhere we went we saw flowers. Not small or neutral toned flowers, but big, vibrant flowers. We knew people in this region had a particular connection to nature, but this was also much further north than where I grew up in Wisconsin. I know how hard it is to grow beautiful flowers there because it is a cold region. Why would people in a cold region have so many beautiful, colorful flowers? It was more than flowers and artfully designed landscaping. Everywhere I looked, there was beauty and happiness; greenhouses dotting most back yards; spaces that were well kept, cozy and lived-in. The pride and joy the Baltic people had in their homes, businesses and whole country was obvious everywhere we looked. The most surprising part of the realization came close to the end of the trip: There was a constant feeling of contentment, relaxation and joy. Even after almost two weeks of travel, experience overload and long days, I just felt happy and peaceful because everything was so nice. The Baltics are not a country filled with material possessions or dependent on a need for new fueled by vanity or greed. They appreciate old and historic because it is what they have. The realities of communism during Soviet occupation are a not so distant memory. They fought for the freedom to make things their own, they are grateful to be able to ability to maintain them and want to live in places that are functional, beautiful and bring them joy. I returned home with a burst of energy to show more pride of ownership and appreciation for my own home, but knew I needed to start small because I was on my own for the project during harvest. I decided to fix the very short section of fence that adorns the entrance to our driveway. It had been rep­­­­ainted so many times it was a decaying eyesore. I don’t have space to recount the whole humorous story, but you can imagine how it went by my new title of “Lumberjack Princess.” Tired, dirty and a little banged-up, I knew that my observations had been correct. My idea, my work, my perseverance, made the fence even more beautiful in the moment. Even after a few months, I smile every time I drive in the yard or think about the project because I made that. And I know now that rest of the world can somehow tell that, even if it is just from the way it looks. My momentum from the fence build has grown in this Christmas season. A visitor or passerby at my home will now see a site I never expected to create at a farmhouse so far off the beaten path: an amateur-built, festively decorated welcoming fence. The effort we make with the look of our world shows pride and brings joy far beyond the recognition that might come from the outside world. My efforts, small or large, are not to impress the world, but for my own fulfillment.

Pride in Ownership

This coming Friday, December 10th, Dorothy Bramlage Public Library will be closing at 4:00 p.m. to host their staff Christmas party.

Due to the Christmas and New Year Holidays, the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library will be closed Friday, December 24th through Sunday December 26th and from Friday, December 31st through January 1st. Library Director Susan Moyer said the outdoor book drop located on the building wall at the north entrance will be open and monitored during that time so all items can still be returned.

This coming Friday, December 10th, Dorothy Bramlage Public Library will be closing at 4:00 p.m. to host their staff Christmas party.Due to the Christmas and New Year Holidays, the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library will be closed Friday, December 24th through Sunday December 26th and from Friday, December 31st through January 1st. Library Director Susan Moyer said the outdoor book drop located on the building wall at the north entrance will be open and monitored during that time so all items can still be returned.

Dorothy Bramlage Public Library Holiday Closings

MANHATTAN — The sister of a Manhattan teen who died in a weekend accident has established <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/kenni-cantus-funeral?member=15777861&amp;sharetype=teams&amp;utm_campaign=p_na+share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=facebook">a fundraiser t</a>o help cover funeral expenses.

Kenni Cantu, 14, was one of two teens who died in a crash along K-18 early Sunday.

The Kansas Highway Patrol a 2005 Chevy Trailblazer driven by&nbsp; Paris Eboni&nbsp;Burgess, 17, Manhattan, was eastbound on Kansas 18 Highway (Fort Riley Boulevard) at Scenic Drive.

Two passengers identified as 14-year-old Kenni&nbsp; Cantu and 14-year-old&nbsp;Gaysha Alfred  both of Manhattan, were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to Frontier Forensics.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638812130360.png" alt="Kenni Cantu-photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Kenni Cantu-photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN — The sister of a Manhattan teen who died in a weekend accident has established <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/kenni-cantus-funeral?member=15777861&amp;sharetype=teams&amp;utm_campaign=p_na+share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=facebook">a fundraiser t</a>o help cover funeral expenses.Kenni Cantu, 14, was one of two teens who died in a crash along K-18 early Sunday.The Kansas Highway Patrol a 2005 Chevy Trailblazer driven by&nbsp; Paris Eboni&nbsp;Burgess, 17, Manhattan, was eastbound on Kansas 18 Highway (Fort Riley Boulevard) at Scenic Drive.The driver lost control of the SUV. The vehicle entered the south ditch,&nbsp; struck a concrete bridge pillar and caught fire.Two passengers identified as 14-year-old Kenni&nbsp; Cantu and 14-year-old&nbsp;Gaysha Alfred both of Manhattan, were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to Frontier Forensics.EMS transported&nbsp;Burgess&nbsp; and passengers Alecia Reyna&nbsp; Smith Haynes, 13, Manhattan, to Via Christi in Manhattan and 14-year-old Jean Carlos&nbsp;Vazques-Ponce of Manhattan to KU Medical Center.As of Monday morning, $9,025 of the fund’s $25,000 goal has been raised.

GoFundMe established to assist accident victim's family

The 1st Infantry Division Band will perform three concerts at the C.L. Hoover Opera House this week. They will be at 7 p.m. Thursday and Saturday, plus 2 p.m. on Sunday.

Opera House officials noted at the request of Fort Riley there will be a face mask requirement for those who attend the free concerts. There is no admission charge or ticket requirement. Seating is on a first come first serve basis.

The 1st Infantry Division Band will perform three concerts at the C.L. Hoover Opera House this week. They will be at 7 p.m. Thursday and Saturday, plus 2 p.m. on Sunday.Opera House officials noted at the request of Fort Riley there will be a face mask requirement for those who attend the free concerts. There is no admission charge or ticket requirement. Seating is on a first come first serve basis.

1st Infantry Division Band will perform at the Opera House

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged forgery in Manhattan.

On Sunday morning, officers filed a report for forgery in the 500 block of Leavenworth Street in Manhattan.n A&nbsp; 62-year-old woman reported an unknown suspect stole, endorsed and cashed a check she sent in the mail, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,600. 

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

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged forgery in Manhattan.On Sunday morning, officers filed a report for forgery in the 500 block of Leavenworth Street in Manhattan.n A&nbsp; 62-year-old woman reported an unknown suspect stole, endorsed and cashed a check she sent in the mail, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,600. 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 investigating case of alleged forgery

Richard Linton was selected as president of K-State by the Kansas Board of Regents at a December 2 meeting on the Manhattan campus and plans to start as the&nbsp;the 15th president of Kansas State University on Valentine's Day, February 14, 2022. Linton is the dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at North Carolina State University. Until he arrives on campus in mid-February, current K-State President Richard Myers will remain at the helm. While Linton wraps up his responsibilities at NC State, he and Myers will also start on leadership transition plans. "I am honored to take on the role of president of Kansas State University," Linton said. "The university is on an exciting trajectory, and its community has a contagious passion, culture and connectivity. I'm energized to help K-State forward and build on this positive momentum.”

Land-grant missions, food science, and agriculture&nbsp;&nbsp; Linton is strongly connected to land-grant institutions, which is one of the reasons why he applied to become the next president of K-State. He earned his bachelor's degree in biology, master's degree in food science and doctorate in food science from Virginia Tech. From 1994-2011, he was a food science faculty member, director — and founder — of the Center for Food Safety Engineering and associate director of agricultural research programs at Purdue University. He served as department chair of food science and technology at The Ohio State University from 2011-2012 before accepting his current position with NC State.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Richard Linton was selected as president of K-State by the Kansas Board of Regents at a December 2 meeting on the Manhattan campus and plans to start as the&nbsp;the 15th president of Kansas State University on Valentine's Day, February 14, 2022. Linton is the dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at North Carolina State University. Until he arrives on campus in mid-February, current K-State President Richard Myers will remain at the helm. While Linton wraps up his responsibilities at NC State, he and Myers will also start on leadership transition plans. "I am honored to take on the role of president of Kansas State University," Linton said. "The university is on an exciting trajectory, and its community has a contagious passion, culture and connectivity. I'm energized to help K-State forward and build on this positive momentum.”Land-grant missions, food science, and agriculture&nbsp;&nbsp; Linton is strongly connected to land-grant institutions, which is one of the reasons why he applied to become the next president of K-State. He earned his bachelor's degree in biology, master's degree in food science and doctorate in food science from Virginia Tech. From 1994-2011, he was a food science faculty member, director — and founder — of the Center for Food Safety Engineering and associate director of agricultural research programs at Purdue University. He served as department chair of food science and technology at The Ohio State University from 2011-2012 before accepting his current position with NC State.&nbsp;&nbsp;--by KSU Communications

It's a date: Linton will take over on Valentine's Day

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/k-states-economic-development-plan-focuses-on-agriculture-biosecurity-innovation/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The economic development
 plan outlined by Kansas State University emphasizing innovation in 
agriculture, biosecurity and extension services is expected to create 
3,000 jobs and encourage investment of $3 billion in the state during 
the next decade, officials said.

The strategic initiative, referred to as the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/research/economic-prosperity/">Economic Prosperity Plan,</a>
 was made public Friday. It would leverage KSU’s strengths in food and 
agriculture systems; digital agriculture and advanced analytics; 
biosecurity and biodefense; and extension and outreach.

“This new initiative will allow K-State to truly demonstrate the 
value that universities provide to local, state and national economies 
through job growth and job creation, as well as retaining and attracting
 talent in the state,” said David Rosowsky, vice president for research 
at the university in Manhattan. “Our plan is bold, it is audacious, but 
it is achievable.”

The plan reflects a directive of the Kansas Board of Regents to 
engage public universities in support of the state’s economic growth. 
The initiative has potential for significant expansion of the Kansas 
economy, but would require building deeper public and private 
partnerships, said Kansas State president Richard Myers.

It would build upon the university’s academic strengths in crop, 
livestock and natural resource research. The plan is to attract outside 
investment and help Kansas become a global leader in digital agriculture
 and advanced analytics. The work would be designed to add value 
throughout the food chain.

K-State’s plan focused on using university strengths in biosecurity 
and biodefense to attract new companies and investments to the state.

Ernie Minton, dean of the College of Agriculture and director of 
K-State Research and Extension, said the strategy would deliver 
profitable and sustainable food and agriculture systems, emphasize new 
technologies and promote national security.

A piece of the plan known as “K-State 105: Every Town to Gown” makes 
use of the statewide extension presence to better support Kansas 
businesses and communities. In addition, the College of Veterinary 
Medicine is to commit to keeping more graduates in Kansas.

“Kansas veterinarians contribute about a half a billion dollars to 
the economic development of the state, so the more veterinarians we can 
keep in the state, the stronger the economic prosperity of producers,” 
said Bonnie Rush, dean of the veterinary college.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638675762751.png" alt="The new economic development plan crafted by Kansas State University emphasizes agriculture and biosecurity initiatives and could be expected to foster 3,000 jobs and $3 billion in investments into the state during the next decade. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The new economic development plan crafted by Kansas State University emphasizes agriculture and biosecurity initiatives and could be expected to foster 3,000 jobs and $3 billion in investments into the state during the next decade. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/k-states-economic-development-plan-focuses-on-agriculture-biosecurity-innovation/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The economic development
 plan outlined by Kansas State University emphasizing innovation in 
agriculture, biosecurity and extension services is expected to create 
3,000 jobs and encourage investment of $3 billion in the state during 
the next decade, officials said.The strategic initiative, referred to as the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/research/economic-prosperity/">Economic Prosperity Plan,</a>
 was made public Friday. It would leverage KSU’s strengths in food and 
agriculture systems; digital agriculture and advanced analytics; 
biosecurity and biodefense; and extension and outreach.“This new initiative will allow K-State to truly demonstrate the 
value that universities provide to local, state and national economies 
through job growth and job creation, as well as retaining and attracting
 talent in the state,” said David Rosowsky, vice president for research 
at the university in Manhattan. “Our plan is bold, it is audacious, but 
it is achievable.”The plan reflects a directive of the Kansas Board of Regents to 
engage public universities in support of the state’s economic growth. 
The initiative has potential for significant expansion of the Kansas 
economy, but would require building deeper public and private 
partnerships, said Kansas State president Richard Myers.It would build upon the university’s academic strengths in crop, 
livestock and natural resource research. The plan is to attract outside 
investment and help Kansas become a global leader in digital agriculture
 and advanced analytics. The work would be designed to add value 
throughout the food chain.K-State’s plan focused on using university strengths in biosecurity 
and biodefense to attract new companies and investments to the state.Ernie Minton, dean of the College of Agriculture and director of 
K-State Research and Extension, said the strategy would deliver 
profitable and sustainable food and agriculture systems, emphasize new 
technologies and promote national security.A piece of the plan known as “K-State 105: Every Town to Gown” makes 
use of the statewide extension presence to better support Kansas 
businesses and communities. In addition, the College of Veterinary 
Medicine is to commit to keeping more graduates in Kansas.“Kansas veterinarians contribute about a half a billion dollars to 
the economic development of the state, so the more veterinarians we can 
keep in the state, the stronger the economic prosperity of producers,” 
said Bonnie Rush, dean of the veterinary college.