MANHATTAN — During the month of March and the first week of April, the Kansas Department of Agriculture will offer a Specialty Crop Lunch and Learn Webinar Series for those interested in the specialty crop industry.

Topics of interest include production practices, specialized equipment, floriculture, diversifying and scaling your operation, turning your specialty crop operation into an agritourism destination, and specialty crop marketing plans and strategies.

The six-part webinar series will be held at noon every Tuesday from March 1 through April 5.

During the webinar series, KDA will feature successful specialty crop growers from across the country who can share their stories and lead discussion on topics specific to this unique sector of the agriculture industry.

March 1:&nbsp;How We Use the Lean System to Earn a Comfortable Living from a ½ Acre Farm — Ben Hartman, author of The Lean Farm.

March 8:&nbsp;Growing your Passion with Profit in the Floral Industry — Suzi Batdorff, Viavi Flower Farm.

March 15:&nbsp;Diversifying and Scaling Your Operation —&nbsp;Michael Kilpatrick, Growing Farmers.

March 22:&nbsp;Designing, Building and Implementing Tools and Systems on Your Own Farm —&nbsp;Josh Volk, Slow Hand Farm.

March 29:&nbsp;The Importance of Value-Added Products in our Farm Store —&nbsp;Olivia Telschow, Helene’s Hilltop Orchard.

April 5:&nbsp;Basics are Best: Must-Haves for Your Marketing Efforts —&nbsp;Ruth Inman, Agorapulse

Registration is now open and there is no cost to participate in the webinars. Participants will register for each of the six sessions separately. Find out more and register at:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjAyMDguNTMwNzUwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmFncmljdWx0dXJlLmtzLmdvdi9CdXNpbmVzc0RldmVsb3BtZW50P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.n1d-UKMyw7Ae8_BmSBA_xRucsbc41q42tw3__NNUQEY/s/1377891820/br/126294556506-l" target="_blank">www.agriculture.ks.gov/BusinessDevelopment</a>.&nbsp;

This program is made possible by a U.S. Department of Agriculture Specialty Crop Block Grant (SCBG). The SCBG makes funds available to state departments of agriculture solely to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops. According to USDA, specialty crops are defined as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture.”

This grant supports KDA’s mission to provide an environment that enhances and encourages economic growth of the agriculture industry and the Kansas economy.

Questions about the specialty crop webinar series should be directed to Sammy Gleason,&nbsp;From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;program coordinator, at 785-564-6755 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov" target="_blank">fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov</a>.

MANHATTAN — During the month of March and the first week of April, the Kansas Department of Agriculture will offer a Specialty Crop Lunch and Learn Webinar Series for those interested in the specialty crop industry.Topics of interest include production practices, specialized equipment, floriculture, diversifying and scaling your operation, turning your specialty crop operation into an agritourism destination, and specialty crop marketing plans and strategies.The six-part webinar series will be held at noon every Tuesday from March 1 through April 5.During the webinar series, KDA will feature successful specialty crop growers from across the country who can share their stories and lead discussion on topics specific to this unique sector of the agriculture industry.March 1:&nbsp;How We Use the Lean System to Earn a Comfortable Living from a ½ Acre Farm — Ben Hartman, author of The Lean Farm.March 8:&nbsp;Growing your Passion with Profit in the Floral Industry — Suzi Batdorff, Viavi Flower Farm.March 15:&nbsp;Diversifying and Scaling Your Operation —&nbsp;Michael Kilpatrick, Growing Farmers.March 22:&nbsp;Designing, Building and Implementing Tools and Systems on Your Own Farm —&nbsp;Josh Volk, Slow Hand Farm.March 29:&nbsp;The Importance of Value-Added Products in our Farm Store —&nbsp;Olivia Telschow, Helene’s Hilltop Orchard.April 5:&nbsp;Basics are Best: Must-Haves for Your Marketing Efforts —&nbsp;Ruth Inman, AgorapulseRegistration is now open and there is no cost to participate in the webinars. Participants will register for each of the six sessions separately. Find out more and register at:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjAyMDguNTMwNzUwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmFncmljdWx0dXJlLmtzLmdvdi9CdXNpbmVzc0RldmVsb3BtZW50P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.n1d-UKMyw7Ae8_BmSBA_xRucsbc41q42tw3__NNUQEY/s/1377891820/br/126294556506-l" target="_blank">www.agriculture.ks.gov/BusinessDevelopment</a>.&nbsp;This program is made possible by a U.S. Department of Agriculture Specialty Crop Block Grant (SCBG). The SCBG makes funds available to state departments of agriculture solely to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops. According to USDA, specialty crops are defined as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture.”This grant supports KDA’s mission to provide an environment that enhances and encourages economic growth of the agriculture industry and the Kansas economy.Questions about the specialty crop webinar series should be directed to Sammy Gleason,&nbsp;From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;program coordinator, at 785-564-6755 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov" target="_blank">fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov</a>.

KDA offers specialty crop webinar series

Valentines Day is this coming Monday and we're teaming up with Muddy Creek Floral and Gifts, 626 N. Washington downtown Junction City to make it special.  Be listening to call 785-238-1420 and enter your Valentine to win one of two Rose Floral Bouquets.  Valentines Day morning&nbsp; we'll draw to pick our two winners from Muddy  Creek Floral and Gifts and 107.9 FM/1420 KJCK.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644434909272.jpeg" alt="107.9 FM/1420 KJCK" />
 <figcaption>107.9 FM/1420 KJCK</figcaption>
 </figure>Valentines Day is this coming Monday and we're teaming up with Muddy Creek Floral and Gifts, 626 N. Washington downtown Junction City to make it special. Be listening to call 785-238-1420 and enter your Valentine to win one of two Rose Floral Bouquets. Valentines Day morning&nbsp; we'll draw to pick our two winners from Muddy Creek Floral and Gifts and 107.9 FM/1420 KJCK.

A Sweetheart  Special

Dates are set in February and the first weekend of March for the sale of Girl Scout cookies in Junction City and at Fort Riley. They will be sold on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout February and on March 4th and 5th.

Booth locations include the Wal-Mart Super Center, CVS, Prairie Dental, Px, Commissary and the 24-hour Shopette. Hours on Fridays will be 5-7 p.m. , Saturdays 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. Times can vary at different locations.

Thin Mints, Carmel Delites and Peanut Butter Patties will be among the different cookies for sale.

Dates are set in February and the first weekend of March for the sale of Girl Scout cookies in Junction City and at Fort Riley. They will be sold on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout February and on March 4th and 5th.Booth locations include the Wal-Mart Super Center, CVS, Prairie Dental, Px, Commissary and the 24-hour Shopette. Hours on Fridays will be 5-7 p.m. , Saturdays 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. Times can vary at different locations.Thin Mints, Carmel Delites and Peanut Butter Patties will be among the different cookies for sale.

Girl Scout cookies go on sale

Eagle Railcar Services, a provider of railcar repair services, has announced the purchase of the former Watco railcar repair shop in Junction City. With the addition of Junction City, Eagle Railcar Services is now comprised of eleven repair shops in Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas and Kansas. They employ more than 1,000 people.

In Junction City the EDC Director Mickey Fornaro-Dean noted that Watco sold their facility on Hoover Road on the north side of the city to the Texas based Eagle Railcar Services. "It's good for this community. Watco's a very good company, great relationship, but this was not the highest priority for their firm. Eagle Railcar, this is the highest priority for their firm. " Fornaro-Dean said that this a specialty for the company. "This is what they do and they are in a growth mode so they will be hiring and they're very excited to be here."

Built in 1974, the Junction City shop originally fabricated new railcars. Located on 66 acres and with over three miles of track serviced by the Union Pacific Railroad, and 109,000 square feet of covered buildings, the facility boasts several amenities, including &nbsp;blast and paint booths, 18 mechanical repair spots, and a cleaning rack that can clean up to 4 cars simultaneously. &nbsp;It is a full-service freight car repair shop, M-1003,&nbsp;B25, and&nbsp;B26&nbsp;certified. &nbsp;

Junction City offers a full suite of Freight Car maintenance and repair services, including the maintenance, removal and reapplication of freight car exterior and interior coatings, cleaning of hazardous and non-hazardous material, removal and disposal of excess commodity, and Rule 88 B.2 inspection and repairs associated with freight cars. &nbsp;

The Junction City shop will also offer a range of Tank Car services, including&nbsp;AAR&nbsp;Field Manual Running/Interchange repairs, cleaning of hazardous and non-hazardous material, removal and disposal of excess commodity, valve tear-down, rebuild, and replacement, and exterior coatings. Junction City currently has a capacity of 200 cars with short and long-term storage available. &nbsp;This shop also offers full service mobile repairs (MRUs) on freight cars and running repairs on tank&nbsp;cars.&nbsp;

Plant Manager Eric Franco-Velez began his career at the Junction City facility in 2015 as the&nbsp;NACE&nbsp;Level&nbsp;III&nbsp;certified Coatings Department Supervisor. He has held positions of increasing responsibility, including the Wash Rack/PD&nbsp;Supervisor and Shop Superintendent prior to becoming the Plant&nbsp;Manager.&nbsp;

Eagle Railcar Services will be making significant improvements to their Junction City facility. Near-term expansion plans include an M-1002 certification, full-service cleaning rack, additional storage track, and enhanced coatings&nbsp;capabilities.&nbsp;

Eagle Railcar Services, a provider of railcar repair services, has announced the purchase of the former Watco railcar repair shop in Junction City. With the addition of Junction City, Eagle Railcar Services is now comprised of eleven repair shops in Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas and Kansas. They employ more than 1,000 people.In Junction City the EDC Director Mickey Fornaro-Dean noted that Watco sold their facility on Hoover Road on the north side of the city to the Texas based Eagle Railcar Services. "It's good for this community. Watco's a very good company, great relationship, but this was not the highest priority for their firm. Eagle Railcar, this is the highest priority for their firm. " Fornaro-Dean said that this a specialty for the company. "This is what they do and they are in a growth mode so they will be hiring and they're very excited to be here."Built in 1974, the Junction City shop originally fabricated new railcars. Located on 66 acres and with over three miles of track serviced by the Union Pacific Railroad, and 109,000 square feet of covered buildings, the facility boasts several amenities, including &nbsp;blast and paint booths, 18 mechanical repair spots, and a cleaning rack that can clean up to 4 cars simultaneously. &nbsp;It is a full-service freight car repair shop, M-1003,&nbsp;B25, and&nbsp;B26&nbsp;certified. &nbsp;Junction City offers a full suite of Freight Car maintenance and repair services, including the maintenance, removal and reapplication of freight car exterior and interior coatings, cleaning of hazardous and non-hazardous material, removal and disposal of excess commodity, and Rule 88 B.2 inspection and repairs associated with freight cars. &nbsp;The Junction City shop will also offer a range of Tank Car services, including&nbsp;AAR&nbsp;Field Manual Running/Interchange repairs, cleaning of hazardous and non-hazardous material, removal and disposal of excess commodity, valve tear-down, rebuild, and replacement, and exterior coatings. Junction City currently has a capacity of 200 cars with short and long-term storage available. &nbsp;This shop also offers full service mobile repairs (MRUs) on freight cars and running repairs on tank&nbsp;cars.&nbsp;Plant Manager Eric Franco-Velez began his career at the Junction City facility in 2015 as the&nbsp;NACE&nbsp;Level&nbsp;III&nbsp;certified Coatings Department Supervisor. He has held positions of increasing responsibility, including the Wash Rack/PD&nbsp;Supervisor and Shop Superintendent prior to becoming the Plant&nbsp;Manager.&nbsp;Eagle Railcar Services will be making significant improvements to their Junction City facility. Near-term expansion plans include an M-1002 certification, full-service cleaning rack, additional storage track, and enhanced coatings&nbsp;capabilities.&nbsp;

Eagle Railcar Services announces a Junction City purchase

WICHITA, Kan. – The Junction City High School Chamber Choir has been selected to perform in February at the Kansas Music Educators Association (KMEA) in-service workshop at the Century II Convention Center in Wichita.

This important annual event gathers speakers, performers, and vendors who represent the best of music education throughout the state of Kansas, according to Junction City High School Vocal Music Director Casey Guthals Hageman.

“The Junction City High School Chamber Choir was one of seven high school choirs in the state of Kansas selected to perform at the in-service workshop.

At the workshop, students will have the unique opportunity to perform for many Kansas educators, performers, and clinicians. In addition, they will have the advantage of being able to network with other performers, post-secondary personnel, and recruiters to explore their options following graduation.

The Chamber Choir students were given four weeks to assemble the “Beatitudes” by Hawes, an eight-movement piece that has been described as a “range from uncomplicated to militaristic.” Simultaneously, they were tasked to master “WIPIP!!” by Guillaume, a Haitian-Creole language song, with a theme that translates to “life is beautiful when you love one another.”

“We are incredibly proud of our students’ determination to not only learn, but skillfully perform high-quality music with precision and sensitivity,” Guthals Hageman said.

The Chamber Choir has previously received Superior ratings (I) for the past five years at the Large Group Contest. Fourteen members of the Chamber Choir will be representing the program in the KMEA All-State Ensemble, with four other students being selected as alternates.

The workshop will take place from Feb. 24 to Feb. 26. Parents and community members may watch the Chamber Choir’s performance on Friday, Feb. 25 at 2:45 p.m. in the Hyatt Eagle Ballroom D-H.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644455018147.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Lindley LundGeary USD 475WICHITA, Kan. – The Junction City High School Chamber Choir has been selected to perform in February at the Kansas Music Educators Association (KMEA) in-service workshop at the Century II Convention Center in Wichita.This important annual event gathers speakers, performers, and vendors who represent the best of music education throughout the state of Kansas, according to Junction City High School Vocal Music Director Casey Guthals Hageman.“The Junction City High School Chamber Choir was one of seven high school choirs in the state of Kansas selected to perform at the in-service workshop.At the workshop, students will have the unique opportunity to perform for many Kansas educators, performers, and clinicians. In addition, they will have the advantage of being able to network with other performers, post-secondary personnel, and recruiters to explore their options following graduation.The Chamber Choir students were given four weeks to assemble the “Beatitudes” by Hawes, an eight-movement piece that has been described as a “range from uncomplicated to militaristic.” Simultaneously, they were tasked to master “WIPIP!!” by Guillaume, a Haitian-Creole language song, with a theme that translates to “life is beautiful when you love one another.”“We are incredibly proud of our students’ determination to not only learn, but skillfully perform high-quality music with precision and sensitivity,” Guthals Hageman said.The Chamber Choir has previously received Superior ratings (I) for the past five years at the Large Group Contest. Fourteen members of the Chamber Choir will be representing the program in the KMEA All-State Ensemble, with four other students being selected as alternates.The workshop will take place from Feb. 24 to Feb. 26. Parents and community members may watch the Chamber Choir’s performance on Friday, Feb. 25 at 2:45 p.m. in the Hyatt Eagle Ballroom D-H.

JCHS Chamber Choir will perform at  the Kansas Music Educators Association

Dr. Reginald Eggleston, USD 475 Superintendent of Geary County Schools served as the guest speaker and was also officially inducted into the JC Breakfast Optimist Club by President, Don Manley at the Club's meeting on Wednesday.

As an inductee into the Optimist Club, Eggleston was asked to share information about himself during an activity titled “Getting To Know Our Optimist Club Members”. He shared that he supervises 18 schools and is responsible for the academic and social emotional learning for over 7,000 students. Prior to this position he served as Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) over state intervention for the Alabama State Department of Education. He has been a Special Education teacher, assistant principal, high school principal, Director of Special Education and Student Services and assistant superintendent over Federal and Special Programs and Schools.

The USD 475 Superintendent is also a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Reserves with 31 years of military experience. He has served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn. Dr. Eggleston currently serves as the Deputy Commanding Officer (DCO) for 1st “Frontier” Brigade (PD), 104th Training Division, Aurora, Colorado.

Dr. Eggleston also told the Optimist Club members that COVID has had an impact in education and with the military and he believes that “we have not seen the end of that impact.” Perhaps “something good that will come from all of this is that we will appreciate what we have; we will appreciate our life, our families and our friends more. USD 475 has great people.”

In reflecting on some of the proposed legislation, Dr. Eggleston said “We need to create our own report card on how we will be graded and not be told by legislators” the things on which schools should be evaluated. With all that goes on in social media, the news and social distancing, we need to be optimistic and be positive influences on our youth. We need to invest in our youth and be purposeful and positive with a focus on all that is good in our lives. Encourage others!”

In closing, Dr. Eggleston reminded Club members that “the teacher shortage is not new. This has been a concern for many years. We need to look at growing our own to respond to the Great Resignation.”

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club will have a fundraiser at JC’s BBQ &amp; Grill on Monday, February 14 from 11:00 AM until closing. Ten percent of purchases and donations will go to the JC Breakfast Optimist Club to support 17 different Geary County youth organizations.

By Dr. Ferrell MillerDr. Reginald Eggleston, USD 475 Superintendent of Geary County Schools served as the guest speaker and was also officially inducted into the JC Breakfast Optimist Club by President, Don Manley at the Club's meeting on Wednesday.As an inductee into the Optimist Club, Eggleston was asked to share information about himself during an activity titled “Getting To Know Our Optimist Club Members”. He shared that he supervises 18 schools and is responsible for the academic and social emotional learning for over 7,000 students. Prior to this position he served as Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) over state intervention for the Alabama State Department of Education. He has been a Special Education teacher, assistant principal, high school principal, Director of Special Education and Student Services and assistant superintendent over Federal and Special Programs and Schools.The USD 475 Superintendent is also a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Reserves with 31 years of military experience. He has served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn. Dr. Eggleston currently serves as the Deputy Commanding Officer (DCO) for 1st “Frontier” Brigade (PD), 104th Training Division, Aurora, Colorado.Dr. Eggleston also told the Optimist Club members that COVID has had an impact in education and with the military and he believes that “we have not seen the end of that impact.” Perhaps “something good that will come from all of this is that we will appreciate what we have; we will appreciate our life, our families and our friends more. USD 475 has great people.”In reflecting on some of the proposed legislation, Dr. Eggleston said “We need to create our own report card on how we will be graded and not be told by legislators” the things on which schools should be evaluated. With all that goes on in social media, the news and social distancing, we need to be optimistic and be positive influences on our youth. We need to invest in our youth and be purposeful and positive with a focus on all that is good in our lives. Encourage others!”In closing, Dr. Eggleston reminded Club members that “the teacher shortage is not new. This has been a concern for many years. We need to look at growing our own to respond to the Great Resignation.”The JC Breakfast Optimist Club will have a fundraiser at JC’s BBQ &amp; Grill on Monday, February 14 from 11:00 AM until closing. Ten percent of purchases and donations will go to the JC Breakfast Optimist Club to support 17 different Geary County youth organizations.

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club hears from Dr. Reginald Eggleston 

RILEY COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) on Wednesday shared additional information related to the homicide and officer-involved shooting that occurred Saturday, Feb. 5 in Manhattan.

Tremelle R. Montgomery, 19, of Fort Riley, was released from Stormont Vail hospital in Topeka on Wednesday, and then immediately transported to the Riley County Jail. He was booked into jail at around 3:40 p.m. for first-degree murder, and three counts of attempted first-degree murder related to the shooting where Joshua Wardi was killed.

Charges have not yet been determined related to the subsequent officer-involved shooting incident.

The investigation is ongoing. Once completed the findings will be presented to the Riley County Attorney for his determination of charges.

Nothing further will be released at this time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644236764866.png" alt="KBI on the scene of the investigation photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>KBI on the scene of the investigation photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) on Wednesday shared additional information related to the homicide and officer-involved shooting that occurred Saturday, Feb. 5 in Manhattan.Tremelle R. Montgomery, 19, of Fort Riley, was released from Stormont Vail hospital in Topeka on Wednesday, and then immediately transported to the Riley County Jail. He was booked into jail at around 3:40 p.m. for first-degree murder, and three counts of attempted first-degree murder related to the shooting where Joshua Wardi was killed.Charges have not yet been determined related to the subsequent officer-involved shooting incident.The investigation is ongoing. Once completed the findings will be presented to the Riley County Attorney for his determination of charges.Nothing further will be released at this time.

KBI updates officer-involved shooting, homicide in Manhattan

LINCOLN COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Wednesday in Lincoln County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Chevy Silverado driven by Heather Marie Schmidt, 38, Topeka, was westbound on Interstate 70 four miles east of Kansas 156.

The pickup rear-ended a 2016 Kia Optima driven by Kent G. Tadeo, 22, Fort Riley, who was slowing for traffic.&nbsp; The impact pushed the Kia off the highway and into the ditch.

EMS transported&nbsp;Tadeo and a passenger Joanna&nbsp;Rodriguez, 20, Fort Riley, to Salina Regional Health Center. Schmidt was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

LINCOLN COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Wednesday in Lincoln County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Chevy Silverado driven by Heather Marie Schmidt, 38, Topeka, was westbound on Interstate 70 four miles east of Kansas 156.The pickup rear-ended a 2016 Kia Optima driven by Kent G. Tadeo, 22, Fort Riley, who was slowing for traffic.&nbsp; The impact pushed the Kia off the highway and into the ditch.EMS transported&nbsp;Tadeo and a passenger Joanna&nbsp;Rodriguez, 20, Fort Riley, to Salina Regional Health Center. Schmidt was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

2 from Fort Riley hospitalized after I-70 rear-end crash

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – The Junction City High School VITA tax site is open to the public for its 23rd tax season, offering tax preparations to community members at no cost.

The services are provided by Junction City High School accounting students, led by teacher Roxanne Whaley. Each season, the students prepare 200 to 300 federal and state tax returns.

“Students become certified by taking tests on Code of Conduct and Basic and Advanced Tax Preparation.

Students are learning basic tax terms and scenarios to assist in preparing the tax returns given to us by the community members,” Whaley said any community members interested in these services may call (785) 717-4261 to schedule an appointment or drop off their tax information at the Junction City High School, located at 1100 Blue Jay Way in Junction City, to have their return completed. 

By Lindley LundUSD 475JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – The Junction City High School VITA tax site is open to the public for its 23rd tax season, offering tax preparations to community members at no cost.The services are provided by Junction City High School accounting students, led by teacher Roxanne Whaley. Each season, the students prepare 200 to 300 federal and state tax returns.“Students become certified by taking tests on Code of Conduct and Basic and Advanced Tax Preparation.Students are learning basic tax terms and scenarios to assist in preparing the tax returns given to us by the community members,” Whaley said any community members interested in these services may call (785) 717-4261 to schedule an appointment or drop off their tax information at the Junction City High School, located at 1100 Blue Jay Way in Junction City, to have their return completed.

Junction City High School tax site provides services to hundreds

There have been two recent shooting incidents in the Aggieville district of Manhattan, including one last weekend where a Fort Riley man died and another Fort Riley man was transported to a Topeka hospital.&nbsp;

Speaking this week Dennis Cook, Executive Director of the Aggieville Business Association, said there have been discussions with the leadership including the commanding general of Fort Riley and the acting director of the Riley County Police Department. "I think the consensus so far is, number one, we don't look at this as a Fort Riley situation at all. They've got 15,000 soldiers and these are two incidents of somebody from Fort Riley, yes, but that's a pretty broad stroke to paint."

Cook said the Aggieville Business Association is supportive of Fort Riley and the service men and women who defend the country. He noted that the feedback he has received from them is that Aggieville wasn't the spark that caused the incidents. "This is a couple people who made some really poor decisions but that doesn't mean we don't take a look at what we can proactively do. " Cook added officials are still trying to figure that out.&nbsp;

Cook said there have been discussions about having a sit-down meeting&nbsp; with Aggieville business leaders, city and police, "to all talk about it together. The thing we hit on most is being more visible and being more open, and out there in a more protect and serve attitude so that people can feel safe down here."

Cook noted that they are talking about bringing back the courtesy patrol where there would be uniformed officers from Fort Riley in Aggieville. In the past with the courtesy patrol those officers would walk with Riley County police to be visible so soldiers knew that they were dealing with not just local officers, but military officers were nearby as well.

There have been two recent shooting incidents in the Aggieville district of Manhattan, including one last weekend where a Fort Riley man died and another Fort Riley man was transported to a Topeka hospital.&nbsp;Speaking this week Dennis Cook, Executive Director of the Aggieville Business Association, said there have been discussions with the leadership including the commanding general of Fort Riley and the acting director of the Riley County Police Department. "I think the consensus so far is, number one, we don't look at this as a Fort Riley situation at all. They've got 15,000 soldiers and these are two incidents of somebody from Fort Riley, yes, but that's a pretty broad stroke to paint."Cook said the Aggieville Business Association is supportive of Fort Riley and the service men and women who defend the country. He noted that the feedback he has received from them is that Aggieville wasn't the spark that caused the incidents. "This is a couple people who made some really poor decisions but that doesn't mean we don't take a look at what we can proactively do. " Cook added officials are still trying to figure that out.&nbsp;Cook said there have been discussions about having a sit-down meeting&nbsp; with Aggieville business leaders, city and police, "to all talk about it together. The thing we hit on most is being more visible and being more open, and out there in a more protect and serve attitude so that people can feel safe down here."Cook noted that they are talking about bringing back the courtesy patrol where there would be uniformed officers from Fort Riley in Aggieville. In the past with the courtesy patrol those officers would walk with Riley County police to be visible so soldiers knew that they were dealing with not just local officers, but military officers were nearby as well.

Aggieville Business Association works to address recent shootings

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary in Ogden.

Just after 11a.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for burglary near the intersection of Fourteenth Street and S. Oak Street in Ogden, according to the Riley County Police Department activity re port.

A 24-year-old woman reported an unknown suspect broke into her storage unit and stole a safe, $1,500 cash, a PlayStation 4, stuffed animals and antique jewelry. 

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $15,000. 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 a burglary in Ogden.Just after 11a.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for burglary near the intersection of Fourteenth Street and S. Oak Street in Ogden, according to the Riley County Police Department activity re port.A 24-year-old woman reported an unknown suspect broke into her storage unit and stole a safe, $1,500 cash, a PlayStation 4, stuffed animals and antique jewelry. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $15,000. Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000

RCPD: Suspect took safe, $1500 cash in burglary 

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Reginald Eggleston recognized seven students this week as recipients of the Superintendent 3R’s Award. This award recognizes students from every school who demonstrate the three r’s: respect, responsibility, and the ability to build positive relationships. 

• Maya Neal, First Grade Student at Eisenhower Elementary School

• Halyna Allen-Troop, Eighth Grade Student at Fort Riley Middle School

• Isabel Beard, Sixth Grade Student at Fort Riley Middle School

• Eddie Howell, Seventh Grade Student at Fort Riley Middle School

• Chloe Keene, Fifth Grade Student at Grandview Elementary School

• Savannah Moore, Fifth Grade Student at Seitz Elementary School

• Tyger Remengesau, Fifth Grade Student at Westwood Elementary School

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Reginald Eggleston recognized seven students this week as recipients of the Superintendent 3R’s Award. This award recognizes students from every school who demonstrate the three r’s: respect, responsibility, and the ability to build positive relationships. The students are:• Maya Neal, First Grade Student at Eisenhower Elementary School• Halyna Allen-Troop, Eighth Grade Student at Fort Riley Middle School• Isabel Beard, Sixth Grade Student at Fort Riley Middle School• Eddie Howell, Seventh Grade Student at Fort Riley Middle School• Chloe Keene, Fifth Grade Student at Grandview Elementary School• Savannah Moore, Fifth Grade Student at Seitz Elementary School• Tyger Remengesau, Fifth Grade Student at Westwood Elementary School

Students receive 3R's Award

MANHATTAN—A Manhattan woman was injured in a two-vehicle accident just after 11a.m. Tuesday.

&nbsp;A 2008 Ford Escape driven by Victoria Pickens, 25, of Manhattan, was southbound on Tuttle Creek Blvd. and struck a 2019 Freightliner truck driven by Mark Baker, 25, of Lawrence, who pulled out&nbsp; in front of the Ford while attempting to make a left turn from Meadowlark Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

EMS transported Pickens to Via Christi for treatment of a broken wrist and additional minor injuries. She was treated and released. Baker was issued a citation for failure to yield at a stop sign, according to the RCPD.

One southbound lane of Tuttle Creek Blvd. was temporarily blocked while first responders worked the crash.

MANHATTAN—A Manhattan woman was injured in a two-vehicle accident just after 11a.m. Tuesday.&nbsp;A 2008 Ford Escape driven by Victoria Pickens, 25, of Manhattan, was southbound on Tuttle Creek Blvd. and struck a 2019 Freightliner truck driven by Mark Baker, 25, of Lawrence, who pulled out&nbsp; in front of the Ford while attempting to make a left turn from Meadowlark Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.EMS transported Pickens to Via Christi for treatment of a broken wrist and additional minor injuries. She was treated and released. Baker was issued a citation for failure to yield at a stop sign, according to the RCPD.One southbound lane of Tuttle Creek Blvd. was temporarily blocked while first responders worked the crash.

Manhattan woman injured after SUV, truck crash

Members of the USD 475 Board of Education have voted to sell the former Junction City High School site to the city for $1 after the demolition of structures at that location. The city has plans for a future sports complex there, and possibly for a new public library and aquatic facility. As part of the transfer of property there will be development of a memorandum of understanding between the City and USD 475 spelling out details of the project. An example could include possible school district access to facilities.

City Manager Allen Dinkel commented on the sports complex. "We're talking about baseball fields, soccer fields, or some other facilities again. I think we're early enough in the game that we can still planning for it now. We'll have control of the land."

It did not gain approval but there was a staff recommendation to put an early childhood center on the former high school site, and also leave the remainder of the ground to the city. That was supported by Board member Jim Schmidt. "But they're asking for a central location to build a facility on. We have the land that we possess, we've already agreed to working with the city and the city wholey, library separate because they're their own entity so we can surely figure out our way forward to where we can get an early childhood center, get a library, we can let the city have what remains and move forward."&nbsp;

Members of the USD 475 Board of Education have voted to sell the former Junction City High School site to the city for $1 after the demolition of structures at that location. The city has plans for a future sports complex there, and possibly for a new public library and aquatic facility. As part of the transfer of property there will be development of a memorandum of understanding between the City and USD 475 spelling out details of the project. An example could include possible school district access to facilities.City Manager Allen Dinkel commented on the sports complex. "We're talking about baseball fields, soccer fields, or some other facilities again. I think we're early enough in the game that we can still planning for it now. We'll have control of the land."It did not gain approval but there was a staff recommendation to put an early childhood center on the former high school site, and also leave the remainder of the ground to the city. That was supported by Board member Jim Schmidt. "But they're asking for a central location to build a facility on. We have the land that we possess, we've already agreed to working with the city and the city wholey, library separate because they're their own entity so we can surely figure out our way forward to where we can get an early childhood center, get a library, we can let the city have what remains and move forward."&nbsp;&nbsp;

School board agrees to sell the former JCHS site to the city

Extensive discussion at the Geary USD 475 Board of Education meeting Monday evening on possibly making face masks optional in district facilities resulted in no action. The school district is scheduled to keep the face mask requirement in place until April during the pandemic.

Board member Dr. Anwar Khoury felt it was time for the Board to make a decision. "The psychological aspects of wearing masks and the loss of learning, it's taken a toll on our students. And I think it's time for us to say off to the masks."

Board member Mark Hatcher pushed hard to make the masks optional. "I would push back on the fact that it's just taken for granted that masks keep everybody in school." Hatcher added that there is conflicting evidence.

Hatcher also noted that he also understood the complexity of the issue, but also pointed out that communities at Fort Leavenworth and Fort Leonard Wood had an optional requirement and seemed to be "navigating it just fine." He also commented that USD 475 could do it to if&nbsp; they chose to do so.

Board member Dr. Beth Hudson felt back in November the district set a goal of April and observed that trends are moving in the desired direction. "So why will we not wait those few weeks and see that we get there. That's what we were asking for, is April and that's not that far away. It's two months right, eight weeks." Hudson added the mask topic keeps coming up but the numbers for the district are heading in the right direction. "So we can see a light at the end of the tunnel."

After the discussion there was no motion to make face masks optional at this time.

Extensive discussion at the Geary USD 475 Board of Education meeting Monday evening on possibly making face masks optional in district facilities resulted in no action. The school district is scheduled to keep the face mask requirement in place until April during the pandemic.Board member Dr. Anwar Khoury felt it was time for the Board to make a decision. "The psychological aspects of wearing masks and the loss of learning, it's taken a toll on our students. And I think it's time for us to say off to the masks."Board member Mark Hatcher pushed hard to make the masks optional. "I would push back on the fact that it's just taken for granted that masks keep everybody in school." Hatcher added that there is conflicting evidence.Hatcher also noted that he also understood the complexity of the issue, but also pointed out that communities at Fort Leavenworth and Fort Leonard Wood had an optional requirement and seemed to be "navigating it just fine." He also commented that USD 475 could do it to if&nbsp; they chose to do so.Board member Dr. Beth Hudson felt back in November the district set a goal of April and observed that trends are moving in the desired direction. "So why will we not wait those few weeks and see that we get there. That's what we were asking for, is April and that's not that far away. It's two months right, eight weeks." Hudson added the mask topic keeps coming up but the numbers for the district are heading in the right direction. "So we can see a light at the end of the tunnel."After the discussion there was no motion to make face masks optional at this time.

USD 475 will continue with the face mask requirement

Lights, Camera, Action is the theme for Winter Spirit Week at Junction City High School. Each day this week students can dress up. For example on Monday they were able to dress in PJs, and on Tuesday in their favorite jersey.

On Wednesday they dress in pink. Thursday in their favorite western gear and on Friday in their House / Class Colors.&nbsp;

The king and queen will be crowned in between the girls and boys varsity games with Topeka West on Friday. There will be a school dance Friday after the boys varsity game from 9 - 11 p.m. in the Auxiliary Gym.

If you attend the basketball game admission&nbsp; to the dance is free. If you only come to the dance admission is $3 at the door.

Lights, Camera, Action is the theme for Winter Spirit Week at Junction City High School. Each day this week students can dress up. For example on Monday they were able to dress in PJs, and on Tuesday in their favorite jersey.On Wednesday they dress in pink. Thursday in their favorite western gear and on Friday in their House / Class Colors.&nbsp;The king and queen will be crowned in between the girls and boys varsity games with Topeka West on Friday. There will be a school dance Friday after the boys varsity game from 9 - 11 p.m. in the Auxiliary Gym.If you attend the basketball game admission&nbsp; to the dance is free. If you only come to the dance admission is $3 at the door.

JCHS observes Winter Spirit Week

JC'S BBQ &amp; Grill will be the site on Feb. 14th from 11 a.m. until closing of a JC Breakfast Optimist Club fundraiser for the 17 youth organizations supported by the club. Optimist Club member Dr. Ferrell Miller noted that JC'S BBQ &amp; Grill will donate 10% of purchases to the club. The club will also be accepting donations.

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club also receives contributions from other businesses including Central National Bank, Armed Forces Bank, Holm Auto Center in Abilene and Salina, Jim Clark Chevrolet, the Hampton Inn by Hilton, Cardinal Insurance - Brian Field agent, Coldwell Banker / Patriot Realty, NextHome Unlimited and Re/Max Signature Properties.

JC'S BBQ &amp; Grill will be the site on Feb. 14th from 11 a.m. until closing of a JC Breakfast Optimist Club fundraiser for the 17 youth organizations supported by the club. Optimist Club member Dr. Ferrell Miller noted that JC'S BBQ &amp; Grill will donate 10% of purchases to the club. The club will also be accepting donations.The JC Breakfast Optimist Club also receives contributions from other businesses including Central National Bank, Armed Forces Bank, Holm Auto Center in Abilene and Salina, Jim Clark Chevrolet, the Hampton Inn by Hilton, Cardinal Insurance - Brian Field agent, Coldwell Banker / Patriot Realty, NextHome Unlimited and Re/Max Signature Properties.

Optimists will raise funds

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with &nbsp;Kansas housing Emergency Rental Assistance program executive director Ryan Vincent.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Kansas housing Emergency Rental Assistance program executive director Ryan Vincent" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9zvym-119e5dd-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with &nbsp;Kansas housing Emergency Rental Assistance program executive director Ryan Vincent.

🎤Forward Ever: Ryan Vincent, Kansas Housing Corp.

By
NICK GOSNELL<a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch
Post</a>


HUTCHINSON — 
A limited-government advocate says the Truth in Taxation law in Kansas is working.

"For
 years, people had complained loudly about being told by local officials
 that they were holding the line on property tax, only to get larger and
 larger tax bills," said Dave Trabert with the Kansas Policy Institute. 
"What this legislation does is reduce mill rates. Each year, when new 
valuations come in, the mill levy is automatically reduced, so that 
those valuations deliver the same dollar amount of property tax to the 
city or county. Then, if they want to take in more money, they have to 
tell taxpayers what they want to do and hold a public hearing and then 
vote on it."

Trabert pushes back against the idea that Truth in 
Taxation may lose some of its rhetorical force because governments can 
blame inflation for tax increases, since the law is about actual 
dollars.

"We will go in and work with any city or county or school
 district that says they have no choice," Trabert said. "We'll help them
 find the choice. Sure, there will be people who will hide behind 
inflation and say, we had no choice, but what they are saying is, look, 
citizens, you have inflation and we want to make it worse with a tax 
increase, because government always likes to have citizens adjust their 
budgets so the government officials don't have to do that."

The 
school finance law mandates 20 mills per district in their general fund,
 no matter, so a lot of districts believe they have to raise the overall
 budget to comply with that statute.

"That's only part of what 
schools take in," Trabert said. "They could still offset that increase 
in the 20 mills by reducing what they collect in local option budget, by
 reducing what they collect in capital outlay. Again, they have the 
options. In fact, most school districts have a lot of money sitting in 
the bank from aid they got the prior years and didn't spend."

The 
issue there is that general fund dollars are allowed to be spent on 
certain items and LOB can be spent on a different set of certain items 
and capital outlay can be spent on a third set of items, so even if you 
can make cuts in those other areas, it's tough for that to be 
sustainable. Nevertheless, more than half (52%) of governmental entities
 in Kansas were able to hold the line on actual dollars in the first 
year of the program.&nbsp;

A limited-government advocate says the Truth in Taxation law in Kansas is working.

The 
issue there is that general fund dollars are allowed to be spent on 
certain items and LOB can be spent on a different set of certain items 
and capital outlay can be spent on a third set of items, so even if you 
can make cuts in those other areas, it's tough for that to be 
sustainable. Nevertheless, more than half (52%) of governmental entities
 in Kansas were able to hold the line on actual dollars in the first 
year of the program.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.kansasopengov.org/kog/databank#report_id=94">The results are available at KansasOpenGov.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605883070462.jpeg" alt="Dave Trabert " />
 <figcaption>Dave Trabert </figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL<a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch
Post</a> 
HUTCHINSON — 
A limited-government advocate says the Truth in Taxation law in Kansas is working."For
 years, people had complained loudly about being told by local officials
 that they were holding the line on property tax, only to get larger and
 larger tax bills," said Dave Trabert with the Kansas Policy Institute. 
"What this legislation does is reduce mill rates. Each year, when new 
valuations come in, the mill levy is automatically reduced, so that 
those valuations deliver the same dollar amount of property tax to the 
city or county. Then, if they want to take in more money, they have to 
tell taxpayers what they want to do and hold a public hearing and then 
vote on it."Trabert pushes back against the idea that Truth in 
Taxation may lose some of its rhetorical force because governments can 
blame inflation for tax increases, since the law is about actual 
dollars."We will go in and work with any city or county or school
 district that says they have no choice," Trabert said. "We'll help them
 find the choice. Sure, there will be people who will hide behind 
inflation and say, we had no choice, but what they are saying is, look, 
citizens, you have inflation and we want to make it worse with a tax 
increase, because government always likes to have citizens adjust their 
budgets so the government officials don't have to do that."The 
school finance law mandates 20 mills per district in their general fund,
 no matter, so a lot of districts believe they have to raise the overall
 budget to comply with that statute."That's only part of what 
schools take in," Trabert said. "They could still offset that increase 
in the 20 mills by reducing what they collect in local option budget, by
 reducing what they collect in capital outlay. Again, they have the 
options. In fact, most school districts have a lot of money sitting in 
the bank from aid they got the prior years and didn't spend."The 
issue there is that general fund dollars are allowed to be spent on 
certain items and LOB can be spent on a different set of certain items 
and capital outlay can be spent on a third set of items, so even if you 
can make cuts in those other areas, it's tough for that to be 
sustainable. Nevertheless, more than half (52%) of governmental entities
 in Kansas were able to hold the line on actual dollars in the first 
year of the program.&nbsp;A limited-government advocate says the Truth in Taxation law in Kansas is working."For
 years, people had complained loudly about being told by local officials
 that they were holding the line on property tax, only to get larger and
 larger tax bills," said Dave Trabert with the Kansas Policy Institute. 
"What this legislation does is reduce mill rates. Each year, when new 
valuations come in, the mill levy is automatically reduced, so that 
those valuations deliver the same dollar amount of property tax to the 
city or county. Then, if they want to take in more money, they have to 
tell taxpayers what they want to do and hold a public hearing and then 
vote on it."Trabert pushes back against the idea that Truth in 
Taxation may lose some of its rhetorical force because governments can 
blame inflation for tax increases, since the law is about actual 
dollars."We will go in and work with any city or county or school
 district that says they have no choice," Trabert said. "We'll help them
 find the choice. Sure, there will be people who will hide behind 
inflation and say, we had no choice, but what they are saying is, look, 
citizens, you have inflation and we want to make it worse with a tax 
increase, because government always likes to have citizens adjust their 
budgets so the government officials don't have to do that."The 
school finance law mandates 20 mills per district in their general fund,
 no matter, so a lot of districts believe they have to raise the overall
 budget to comply with that statute."That's only part of what 
schools take in," Trabert said. "They could still offset that increase 
in the 20 mills by reducing what they collect in local option budget, by
 reducing what they collect in capital outlay. Again, they have the 
options. In fact, most school districts have a lot of money sitting in 
the bank from aid they got the prior years and didn't spend."The 
issue there is that general fund dollars are allowed to be spent on 
certain items and LOB can be spent on a different set of certain items 
and capital outlay can be spent on a third set of items, so even if you 
can make cuts in those other areas, it's tough for that to be 
sustainable. Nevertheless, more than half (52%) of governmental entities
 in Kansas were able to hold the line on actual dollars in the first 
year of the program.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.kansasopengov.org/kog/databank#report_id=94">The results are available at KansasOpenGov.org</a>.

 Trabert: Truth in Taxation working as intended in Kansas

There is a plan being formulated to help Geary Community Hospital deal with the financial challenges facing that facility. The new Interim CEO at GCH, Margaret Grismer, told the members of the Geary County Commission on Monday that her number one goal is to make the hospital survive and thrive. 

"There is a transition visioning group, that we have two more Wednesday's to be a part of, and that we hope to by the end of Feb. 16th, have a clear vision to move forward so that I can lead." Grismer added that they have to know what the vision is in order to lead in that direction.

Grismer stated that BKD has been engaged to do margin improvement assessment and work along with her for implementation.&nbsp; Referring to the organization chart for the hospital, Grismer noted that there is a middle manager group. "They are gone or leading, and so that's going to pose an additional challenge to this whole thing."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627338396596.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>There is a plan being formulated to help Geary Community Hospital deal with the financial challenges facing that facility. The new Interim CEO at GCH, Margaret Grismer, told the members of the Geary County Commission on Monday that her number one goal is to make the hospital survive and thrive. "There is a transition visioning group, that we have two more Wednesday's to be a part of, and that we hope to by the end of Feb. 16th, have a clear vision to move forward so that I can lead." Grismer added that they have to know what the vision is in order to lead in that direction.Grismer stated that BKD has been engaged to do margin improvement assessment and work along with her for implementation.&nbsp; Referring to the organization chart for the hospital, Grismer noted that there is a middle manager group. "They are gone or leading, and so that's going to pose an additional challenge to this whole thing."

Commissioners get an update from the Hospital Interim CEO

Dr. Steve and Colleen Hodes, Andover, Kansas, have given a gift to name the deanship in Kansas State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. This is the third named deanship at K-State and the fourth deanship named of all 33 American Veterinary Medical Association accredited Colleges of Veterinary Medicine.

The Hodeses’ gift to name the Hodes Family Deanship in the College of Veterinary Medicine is transformational for the college and future veterinarians. One key initiative it will support is to provide veterinary students with business education, investing in their success as veterinary practice owners.&nbsp;

“Dr. Steve Hodes is a roll-up-your-sleeves, can-do veterinarian with a boundless work ethic.&nbsp;He attained prominent success in business and demonstrates unmatched commitment to mentoring prospective veterinarians,” said Dr. Bonnie Rush, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine. “This gift advances our goals in business education/entrepreneurship and transforms our ability to produce practice-ready veterinarians. The College of Veterinary Medicine recognizes the tremendous responsibility to honor this gift in the image inspired by Dr. and Mrs. Hodes.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dr. Steve Hodes graduated from K-State’s College of Veterinary Medicine in 1979. Colleen Hodes earned her physical education degree from K-State in 1978. They both serve on the KSU Foundation Board of Trustees. Soon after graduating from K-State, Dr. Hodes established the Hodes Veterinary Group and Mobile Veterinary Service in Mine Hill, New Jersey, which grew into a practice with eight veterinarians serving both large and small animals. In 2005, Dr. Hodes received the Alumni Recognition Award from the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine. The award recognized his time and effort devoted to advancing veterinary medicine, and for being an exemplary role model for future veterinarians. The Hodeses have been generous donors to the college, creating a professorship in small animal medicine in 2014, investing in the Equine Performance Testing Center, and providing valuable mentoring to countless veterinary students.

“Kansas State University offered me the opportunity to be a veterinarian. This career has been and continues to be extraordinary. I truly have never gone to a ‘day of work,’” said Dr. Hodes. “Dr. Rush told me that business management will be offered to veterinary students. This is so important as we want those students, as their career evolves at taking care of animals, to simultaneously be providing a great life and future for their families and coworkers. My entire family has benefited from my career and participated in it, so as a family, we are happy to make this investment in K-State’s College of Veterinary Medicine.”

The Hodeses’ passion for K-State and the veterinary profession extended to their children. Two of their three children attended K-State. Their son, Dr. Brian Hodes, and daughter-in-law, Dr. Jessica (Harrison) Hodes, both received their veterinary degrees from K-State in 2011. The Hodes’ daughter, Alexa Hodes Hewitt, earned her journalism and mass communications degree from K-State in 2010. Alexa’s husband, Matthew Hewitt, graduated from K-State in 2009 with a degree in accounting. Their son, Tim Hodes, studied business at the University of Michigan, and his wife Kari Friedlander Hodes went to Indiana University.

The K-State College of Veterinary Medicine will host a dedication event to celebrate this tremendous gift on Wednesday, April 6, at the Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Auditorium located between the Veterinary Health Center in Mosier Hall and the College of Veterinary Medicine in Trotter Hall. The occasion will feature Dr. Steve and Colleen Hodes, the College of Veterinary Medicine Hodes Family Dean Dr. Bonnie Rush, and other campus leaders. The event will be open to the public. The specific time and details will be released at a later date. As Kansas State University’s strategic partner for philanthropy, the KSU Foundation inspires and guides philanthropy toward university priorities to boldly advance K-State family. Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://ksufoundation.org/">www.ksufoundation.org</a>&nbsp;for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644328413320.png" alt="Photo courtesy KSU" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KSU</figcaption>
 </figure>KSU&nbsp;College of Veterinary MedicineDr. Steve and Colleen Hodes, Andover, Kansas, have given a gift to name the deanship in Kansas State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. This is the third named deanship at K-State and the fourth deanship named of all 33 American Veterinary Medical Association accredited Colleges of Veterinary Medicine.The Hodeses’ gift to name the Hodes Family Deanship in the College of Veterinary Medicine is transformational for the college and future veterinarians. One key initiative it will support is to provide veterinary students with business education, investing in their success as veterinary practice owners.&nbsp;“Dr. Steve Hodes is a roll-up-your-sleeves, can-do veterinarian with a boundless work ethic.&nbsp;He attained prominent success in business and demonstrates unmatched commitment to mentoring prospective veterinarians,” said Dr. Bonnie Rush, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine. “This gift advances our goals in business education/entrepreneurship and transforms our ability to produce practice-ready veterinarians. The College of Veterinary Medicine recognizes the tremendous responsibility to honor this gift in the image inspired by Dr. and Mrs. Hodes.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Dr. Steve Hodes graduated from K-State’s College of Veterinary Medicine in 1979. Colleen Hodes earned her physical education degree from K-State in 1978. They both serve on the KSU Foundation Board of Trustees. Soon after graduating from K-State, Dr. Hodes established the Hodes Veterinary Group and Mobile Veterinary Service in Mine Hill, New Jersey, which grew into a practice with eight veterinarians serving both large and small animals. In 2005, Dr. Hodes received the Alumni Recognition Award from the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine. The award recognized his time and effort devoted to advancing veterinary medicine, and for being an exemplary role model for future veterinarians. The Hodeses have been generous donors to the college, creating a professorship in small animal medicine in 2014, investing in the Equine Performance Testing Center, and providing valuable mentoring to countless veterinary students.“Kansas State University offered me the opportunity to be a veterinarian. This career has been and continues to be extraordinary. I truly have never gone to a ‘day of work,’” said Dr. Hodes. “Dr. Rush told me that business management will be offered to veterinary students. This is so important as we want those students, as their career evolves at taking care of animals, to simultaneously be providing a great life and future for their families and coworkers. My entire family has benefited from my career and participated in it, so as a family, we are happy to make this investment in K-State’s College of Veterinary Medicine.”The Hodeses’ passion for K-State and the veterinary profession extended to their children. Two of their three children attended K-State. Their son, Dr. Brian Hodes, and daughter-in-law, Dr. Jessica (Harrison) Hodes, both received their veterinary degrees from K-State in 2011. The Hodes’ daughter, Alexa Hodes Hewitt, earned her journalism and mass communications degree from K-State in 2010. Alexa’s husband, Matthew Hewitt, graduated from K-State in 2009 with a degree in accounting. Their son, Tim Hodes, studied business at the University of Michigan, and his wife Kari Friedlander Hodes went to Indiana University.The K-State College of Veterinary Medicine will host a dedication event to celebrate this tremendous gift on Wednesday, April 6, at the Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Auditorium located between the Veterinary Health Center in Mosier Hall and the College of Veterinary Medicine in Trotter Hall. The occasion will feature Dr. Steve and Colleen Hodes, the College of Veterinary Medicine Hodes Family Dean Dr. Bonnie Rush, and other campus leaders. The event will be open to the public. The specific time and details will be released at a later date. As Kansas State University’s strategic partner for philanthropy, the KSU Foundation inspires and guides philanthropy toward university priorities to boldly advance K-State family. Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://ksufoundation.org/">www.ksufoundation.org</a>&nbsp;for more information.

KSU alumni invest in naming the deanship of the College of Veterinary Medicine

Marshall-Nemaha-Brown-Riley-Pottawatomie-Jackson-Jefferson-Geary-Morris-Wabaunsee-Shawnee-Douglas-Lyon-Osage-Franklin-Coffey-Anderson-

This hazardous weather outlook is for east central...north central and northeast Kansas.

Very high fire danger is expected this afternoon.

Marshall-Nemaha-Brown-Riley-Pottawatomie-Jackson-Jefferson-Geary-Morris-Wabaunsee-Shawnee-Douglas-Lyon-Osage-Franklin-Coffey-Anderson-This hazardous weather outlook is for east central...north central and northeast Kansas.Very high fire danger is expected this afternoon.

High fire danger anticipated Tuesday afternoon

GEARY COUNTY, Kan. – When the pandemic initially struck Kansas in March of 2020, the Geary County Health Department and Geary County Schools began the years-long collaboration to fight COVID-19 within the community.

The initial response was immediate, with Geary County Schools becoming one of the first districts in the state to stop in-person learning, according to Geary County Health Department Interim Director Charles Martinez.

“The Kansas Department of Health and Environment [KDHE] has said this helped prevent the spread so quickly over here,” Martinez said. “That gave more time for the hospital to prepare to accept patients.”

Since the beginning, now almost two years ago, the health department and district have continued to work together, communicating on a regular basis to continue to find ways to combat COVID-19, including vaccination clinics. With these clinics, hundreds of district staff and students were able to receive vaccines.

“We are somewhat leading the charge in the state as far as how it should be done and how it’s been done,” Geary County Schools COVID-19 Response Coordinator Richard Rook said when referencing his conversations with KDHE representatives. “I think the district has done a great job with the help of the health department. I don’t think we’d be where we are without that collaboration.”

The health department and district plan to continue to work together to do whatever is necessary to protect the people of Geary County. Martinez and Rook encourage community members to wear masks, receive the COVID-19 vaccine and stay home if they are not feeling well.

“As long as it’s here we’ve got to keep working together,” Rook said. “The overall goal is to keep these doors open and these kids safe, and I think we’re doing a pretty good job of that.”


By Lindley LundUSD 475GEARY COUNTY, Kan. – When the pandemic initially struck Kansas in March of 2020, the Geary County Health Department and Geary County Schools began the years-long collaboration to fight COVID-19 within the community.The initial response was immediate, with Geary County Schools becoming one of the first districts in the state to stop in-person learning, according to Geary County Health Department Interim Director Charles Martinez.“The Kansas Department of Health and Environment [KDHE] has said this helped prevent the spread so quickly over here,” Martinez said. “That gave more time for the hospital to prepare to accept patients.”Since the beginning, now almost two years ago, the health department and district have continued to work together, communicating on a regular basis to continue to find ways to combat COVID-19, including vaccination clinics. With these clinics, hundreds of district staff and students were able to receive vaccines.“We are somewhat leading the charge in the state as far as how it should be done and how it’s been done,” Geary County Schools COVID-19 Response Coordinator Richard Rook said when referencing his conversations with KDHE representatives. “I think the district has done a great job with the help of the health department. I don’t think we’d be where we are without that collaboration.”The health department and district plan to continue to work together to do whatever is necessary to protect the people of Geary County. Martinez and Rook encourage community members to wear masks, receive the COVID-19 vaccine and stay home if they are not feeling well.“As long as it’s here we’ve got to keep working together,” Rook said. “The overall goal is to keep these doors open and these kids safe, and I think we’re doing a pretty good job of that.”

Geary County Schools and Health Department collaborate to combat COVID-19 in the community

As part of the Big Red One Year of Family campaign, Fort Riley Army Community Service (ACS) will host a Resilience Symposium Feb. 14 – 15 at Riley’s Community Center, from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. each day.

According to a release from Fort Riley participants will be able to choose from many sessions over the two-day event with titles like “PCS the RIGHT Way,” “Keys to Financial Success,” “Parenting Teens,” “Home Buying Basics,” “Self-healing through Yoga,” and “Zumba!” Other sessions will cover time management, stress management, nutrition, investing, and more.

There will also be a hiring fair Tuesday afternoon, from 1 – 4 p.m. The symposium is open to all Department of Defense ID cardholders.

To sign up for this free event and see all the available sessions, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0448A5A823AB9-resilience" target="_blank">https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0448A5A823AB9-resilience</a>. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/RileyACS" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/RileyACS</a>

The deadline to sign up is extended to 5 p.m., Feb. 10. For more information on the ACS Resilience Symposium, call 785-239-4675.

As part of the Big Red One Year of Family campaign, Fort Riley Army Community Service (ACS) will host a Resilience Symposium Feb. 14 – 15 at Riley’s Community Center, from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. each day.According to a release from Fort Riley participants will be able to choose from many sessions over the two-day event with titles like “PCS the RIGHT Way,” “Keys to Financial Success,” “Parenting Teens,” “Home Buying Basics,” “Self-healing through Yoga,” and “Zumba!” Other sessions will cover time management, stress management, nutrition, investing, and more.There will also be a hiring fair Tuesday afternoon, from 1 – 4 p.m. The symposium is open to all Department of Defense ID cardholders.To sign up for this free event and see all the available sessions, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0448A5A823AB9-resilience" target="_blank">https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0448A5A823AB9-resilience</a>. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/RileyACS" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/RileyACS</a>The deadline to sign up is extended to 5 p.m., Feb. 10. For more information on the ACS Resilience Symposium, call 785-239-4675.

Army Community Service will hold a resilience symposium

Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel noted this past week that the city's offer for the former JCHS site was for all 34 acres where it could be under City control. There is interest in possibly developing a future sports complex at that location. "I think there may be a counter put out there to keep some for different buildings for USD ( 475 ).

Dinkel said after conversations with city staff and with businessman Kendall Schoenrock who initially spearheaded the project, they do not believe that is a good move for the city, "and probably would not be in favor of that."

The school district currently controls the property but there have been talks with the city about the possible purchase of the site by the city for $1 once demolition work has been completed on some of the existing facilities at the site.

Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel noted this past week that the city's offer for the former JCHS site was for all 34 acres where it could be under City control. There is interest in possibly developing a future sports complex at that location. "I think there may be a counter put out there to keep some for different buildings for USD ( 475 ).Dinkel said after conversations with city staff and with businessman Kendall Schoenrock who initially spearheaded the project, they do not believe that is a good move for the city, "and probably would not be in favor of that."The school district currently controls the property but there have been talks with the city about the possible purchase of the site by the city for $1 once demolition work has been completed on some of the existing facilities at the site.

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