MANHATTAN, Kansas&nbsp;–&nbsp;K-State Athletics and Boot Hill Distillery have partnered to launch Wabash Reserve, the Wildcats’ officially licensed whiskey, which will be available for purchase beginning September 1. Distilled by K-State alumni at Boot Hill Distillery in Dodge City, Kansas, Wabash Reserve is made from grain grown on Boot Hill Distillery’s farm and is an agricultural link that dates back to 1863 when K-State was founded as the nation’s first land grant university. “We are thrilled to work with fellow K-Stater Hayes Kelman (Owner/CEO) and his entire Boot Hill Distillery staff on this unique and exciting project, which we know will be popular with our fans,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “There are very few universities with officially branded whiskey partnerships, and we are appreciative of the work of our staff, our partners at Learfield, Affinity licensing, the great people at Boot Hill and all of the statewide businesses who will carry this premium beverage.” Poured over a cube of ice, served neat, or in a favorite cocktail, Wabash Reserve is the perfect way to celebrate the Wildcats and the legacy of Kansas State University. Each bottle purchased helps support K-State and an alumni-owned Kansas company. A high-wheat Kansas Bourbon, the Wabash Reserve will have a pot-still mash bill of 55% corn, 35% wheat and 10% unmalted&nbsp;barley. Bottled at 90-proof and aged two years, it includes notes of leather, dried fruit and allspice on the nose and roasted sweet corn, orange peel and caramel on the palate. “Our goal with this project is to bring people together,” Kelman said. “Whiskey brings people together and K-State is a place that brings people together, so what better way to do this than for all K-Staters to be able to gather and enjoy a high-quality glass of whiskey.” Fans are encouraged to visit their local liquor stores throughout the state of Kansas&nbsp;beginning September 1&nbsp;to purchase Wabash Reserve. The product, distributed by Standard Beverage, will also be available in restaurants and bars across the state.

For more information on this special release and to see a&nbsp;continually updated list of carriers, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.boothilldistillery.com/wabashreserve" target="_blank">https://www.boothilldistillery.com/wabashreserve</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630088219156.jpeg" alt="K-State Launches Whiskey Partnership with Boot Hill Distillery" />
 <figcaption>K-State Launches Whiskey Partnership with Boot Hill Distillery</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kansas&nbsp;–&nbsp;K-State Athletics and Boot Hill Distillery have partnered to launch Wabash Reserve, the Wildcats’ officially licensed whiskey, which will be available for purchase beginning September 1. Distilled by K-State alumni at Boot Hill Distillery in Dodge City, Kansas, Wabash Reserve is made from grain grown on Boot Hill Distillery’s farm and is an agricultural link that dates back to 1863 when K-State was founded as the nation’s first land grant university. “We are thrilled to work with fellow K-Stater Hayes Kelman (Owner/CEO) and his entire Boot Hill Distillery staff on this unique and exciting project, which we know will be popular with our fans,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “There are very few universities with officially branded whiskey partnerships, and we are appreciative of the work of our staff, our partners at Learfield, Affinity licensing, the great people at Boot Hill and all of the statewide businesses who will carry this premium beverage.” Poured over a cube of ice, served neat, or in a favorite cocktail, Wabash Reserve is the perfect way to celebrate the Wildcats and the legacy of Kansas State University. Each bottle purchased helps support K-State and an alumni-owned Kansas company. A high-wheat Kansas Bourbon, the Wabash Reserve will have a pot-still mash bill of 55% corn, 35% wheat and 10% unmalted&nbsp;barley. Bottled at 90-proof and aged two years, it includes notes of leather, dried fruit and allspice on the nose and roasted sweet corn, orange peel and caramel on the palate. “Our goal with this project is to bring people together,” Kelman said. “Whiskey brings people together and K-State is a place that brings people together, so what better way to do this than for all K-Staters to be able to gather and enjoy a high-quality glass of whiskey.” Fans are encouraged to visit their local liquor stores throughout the state of Kansas&nbsp;beginning September 1&nbsp;to purchase Wabash Reserve. The product, distributed by Standard Beverage, will also be available in restaurants and bars across the state.For more information on this special release and to see a&nbsp;continually updated list of carriers, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.boothilldistillery.com/wabashreserve" target="_blank">https://www.boothilldistillery.com/wabashreserve</a>

K-State Launches Whiskey Partnership with Boot Hill Distillery

Board of Directors of the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program has named the members of the next class of participants for the 2021-22 program year, according to Chair Chris Bowman.

The announcement was made public at Ironclad Co-Working, Wamego, during a reception for the newest program participants. The event was underwritten by CivicPlus and a number of alumni. Opening the reception, Bowman stated that, “This new FHRLP Program year, our regions communities have never faced greater need for critical thinking, visionary, leadership. Generally, the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program seeks positive, strategic thinking emerging leaders that exhibit a broadened perspective. For the Class of 2021-22, we sought those willing to learn leadership skills to find a pathway through crisis.”

The regions premier leadership training program is designed to train and more-fully engage leaders in the area that includes Fort Riley, Geary, Riley and Pottawatomie Counties. e class of 20 includes:&nbsp;

The Board of Directors of the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program has named the members of the next class of participants for the 2021-22 program year according to Chair Chris Bowman.

The announcement was made public at Ironclad Co-Working, Wamego, during a reception for the newest program participants. The event was underwritten by CivicPlus and a number of alumni. Opening the reception, Bowman stated that, “This new FHRLP Program year, our regions communities have never faced greater need for critical thinking, visionary, leadership. Generally, the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program seeks positive, strategic thinking emerging leaders that exhibit a broadened perspective. For the Class of 2021-22, we sought those willing to learn leadership skills to find a pathway through crisis. We found people with the right stuff to lead by example… inherent servant leaders.”

The regions premier leadership training program is designed to train and more-fully engage leaders in the area that includes Fort Riley, Geary, Riley and Pottawatomie Counties. Class members will complete the seven session course over the next six months. The class of 20 includes:

Christine Benne Riley County Manhattan Regional Volunteer, inc. Chair, Manhattan Military Relations Committee, Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation Board; Friends of Fort Riley Museums Board; AUSA; Flint Hills Veterans Coalition

Casey Biesenthal Pottawatomie County Wamego Commercial Lending, Central National Bank

Christian Bishop Wabaunsee County Manhattan Protocol Specialist, First Infantry Division Headquarters, Fort Riley

Andrew Darrow Geary County Junction City IT Director, City of Manhattan

Cade Dover Pottawatomie County Saint George District Operations Manager, EVERGY

David Easterling Geary County Junction City Suicide Prevention Program Manager, Army Substance Abuse Program/DHR @ USAG Fort Riley

Josh Gering Riley County Manhattan Assistant Director, Riley County EMS

Travis Godfrey Geary County Junction City Outside Sales Manager, Godfrey's Indoor Ranges &amp; Tactical Supply

Becky Goff Riley County Keats WIBW-TV Regional News Reporter and Multimedia Journalist, Geary, Riley, Pottawatomie Counties

Vanessa Gray Geary County Junction City Director of the Junction City Animal Shelter

Marc Greene Geary County Fort Riley Deputy Garrison Safety Director, USAG Fort Riley

Shannon Horton Riley County Manhattan Director of Growing Nurturing Families, TFI Family Services

George Kandt Riley County Manhattan Business Retention &amp; Expansion Mgr., Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce

Matthew Lindquist Riley County Manhattan Administrator, Stonecreek Family Physicians

JeremyMcDiffett Wabaunsee County Alta Vista Information Technology Manager, K-State College of Veterinary Medicine

Vivienne Uccello Riley County Manhattan Public Information Officer, City of Manhattan

Devin Wendt Pottawatomie County Manhattan Lead Pastor, Crestview Christian Church

Wendy Winston Riley County Manhattan Division Chief, Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation @ USAG Ft Riley

Nancy Zenger-Beneda Riley County Manhattan Executive Director, Kansas Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom

Eric Zenk Pottawatomie County Manhattan Special Emphasis &amp; Disability Program Manager, Equal Employment Opportunity Office @ USAG Fort Riley

During the event, Jack Lindquist, Executive Director said, “The Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program is thrilled to embrace yet another class of forward-thinking leaders. Our innovative board of directors welcomes fresh faces every year, and although our diligent measures for safety have limited the overall class size to twenty, I cannot be more pleased by each individual’s experience, thoughtfulness, and thirst for growth.” Sessions get underway with Orientation at Rock Springs Ranch 4-H Center and the Junction City / Geary County Session in three weeks.

Board of Directors of the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program has named the members of the next class of participants for the 2021-22 program year, according to Chair Chris Bowman.The announcement was made public at Ironclad Co-Working, Wamego, during a reception for the newest program participants. The event was underwritten by CivicPlus and a number of alumni. Opening the reception, Bowman stated that, “This new FHRLP Program year, our regions communities have never faced greater need for critical thinking, visionary, leadership. Generally, the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program seeks positive, strategic thinking emerging leaders that exhibit a broadened perspective. For the Class of 2021-22, we sought those willing to learn leadership skills to find a pathway through crisis.”The regions premier leadership training program is designed to train and more-fully engage leaders in the area that includes Fort Riley, Geary, Riley and Pottawatomie Counties. e class of 20 includes:&nbsp;The Board of Directors of the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program has named the members of the next class of participants for the 2021-22 program year according to Chair Chris Bowman.The announcement was made public at Ironclad Co-Working, Wamego, during a reception for the newest program participants. The event was underwritten by CivicPlus and a number of alumni. Opening the reception, Bowman stated that, “This new FHRLP Program year, our regions communities have never faced greater need for critical thinking, visionary, leadership. Generally, the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program seeks positive, strategic thinking emerging leaders that exhibit a broadened perspective. For the Class of 2021-22, we sought those willing to learn leadership skills to find a pathway through crisis. We found people with the right stuff to lead by example… inherent servant leaders.”The regions premier leadership training program is designed to train and more-fully engage leaders in the area that includes Fort Riley, Geary, Riley and Pottawatomie Counties. Class members will complete the seven session course over the next six months. The class of 20 includes:Christine Benne Riley County Manhattan Regional Volunteer, inc. Chair, Manhattan Military Relations Committee, Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation Board; Friends of Fort Riley Museums Board; AUSA; Flint Hills Veterans CoalitionCasey Biesenthal Pottawatomie County Wamego Commercial Lending, Central National BankChristian Bishop Wabaunsee County Manhattan Protocol Specialist, First Infantry Division Headquarters, Fort RileyAndrew Darrow Geary County Junction City IT Director, City of ManhattanCade Dover Pottawatomie County Saint George District Operations Manager, EVERGYDavid Easterling Geary County Junction City Suicide Prevention Program Manager, Army Substance Abuse Program/DHR @ USAG Fort RileyJosh Gering Riley County Manhattan Assistant Director, Riley County EMSTravis Godfrey Geary County Junction City Outside Sales Manager, Godfrey's Indoor Ranges &amp; Tactical SupplyBecky Goff Riley County Keats WIBW-TV Regional News Reporter and Multimedia Journalist, Geary, Riley, Pottawatomie CountiesVanessa Gray Geary County Junction City Director of the Junction City Animal ShelterMarc Greene Geary County Fort Riley Deputy Garrison Safety Director, USAG Fort RileyShannon Horton Riley County Manhattan Director of Growing Nurturing Families, TFI Family ServicesGeorge Kandt Riley County Manhattan Business Retention &amp; Expansion Mgr., Manhattan Area Chamber of CommerceMatthew Lindquist Riley County Manhattan Administrator, Stonecreek Family PhysiciansJeremyMcDiffett Wabaunsee County Alta Vista Information Technology Manager, K-State College of Veterinary MedicineVivienne Uccello Riley County Manhattan Public Information Officer, City of ManhattanDevin Wendt Pottawatomie County Manhattan Lead Pastor, Crestview Christian ChurchWendy Winston Riley County Manhattan Division Chief, Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation @ USAG Ft RileyNancy Zenger-Beneda Riley County Manhattan Executive Director, Kansas Foundation for Agriculture in the ClassroomEric Zenk Pottawatomie County Manhattan Special Emphasis &amp; Disability Program Manager, Equal Employment Opportunity Office @ USAG Fort RileyDuring the event, Jack Lindquist, Executive Director said, “The Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program is thrilled to embrace yet another class of forward-thinking leaders. Our innovative board of directors welcomes fresh faces every year, and although our diligent measures for safety have limited the overall class size to twenty, I cannot be more pleased by each individual’s experience, thoughtfulness, and thirst for growth.” Sessions get underway with Orientation at Rock Springs Ranch 4-H Center and the Junction City / Geary County Session in three weeks.

Flint HIlls Regional Leadership Program announces newest class

Live Well Geary County is hosting a Fall Mum Sale. They have eight inch pots with flower colors ranging from red and yellow to orange and white. The cost is $10 each with proceeds being used to support Live Well Geary County and the Geary Community Farmer's Market.

Pre-order mums by Sept. 8th by emailing&nbsp;<a href="http://livewellgearycounty@gmail.com">livewellgearycounty@gmail.comhttp://</a>

Mums will be available for pick up on Sept. 16th at the Farmer' Market at 1025 South Washington in the JC Naz parking lot from 4-7 p.m.

Mums will also be available for purchase at the market on Sept. 16th but availability of colors is not guaranteed. The mums are provided by Neosho Gardens in Council Grove.

Live Well Geary County is hosting a Fall Mum Sale. They have eight inch pots with flower colors ranging from red and yellow to orange and white. The cost is $10 each with proceeds being used to support Live Well Geary County and the Geary Community Farmer's Market.Pre-order mums by Sept. 8th by emailing&nbsp;<a href="http://livewellgearycounty@gmail.com">livewellgearycounty@gmail.comhttp://</a>Mums will be available for pick up on Sept. 16th at the Farmer' Market at 1025 South Washington in the JC Naz parking lot from 4-7 p.m.Mums will also be available for purchase at the market on Sept. 16th but availability of colors is not guaranteed. The mums are provided by Neosho Gardens in Council Grove.

Live Well Geary County will conduct a fundraiser

Pros and cons of requiring Geary Community Hospital employees to get COVID-19 vaccinations were discussed at this week's Board of Trustees meeting.&nbsp;

One Trustee, retired Dr. John Kovac, strongly supported a vaccine mandate for employees, but Dr. Anwar Khoury disagreed and expressed concern about the possible loss of employees. He noted that masking is just as important.

Hospital Board Chair Cecil Aska said it something where he could go both ways. "What I would like is just that we really look at the information and then come up with a policy that's going to work for us. " Aska added that they would look at the issue, gather some information and hopefully reach a decision on what's best for the hospital and Geary County.

Pros and cons of requiring Geary Community Hospital employees to get COVID-19 vaccinations were discussed at this week's Board of Trustees meeting.&nbsp;One Trustee, retired Dr. John Kovac, strongly supported a vaccine mandate for employees, but Dr. Anwar Khoury disagreed and expressed concern about the possible loss of employees. He noted that masking is just as important.Hospital Board Chair Cecil Aska said it something where he could go both ways. "What I would like is just that we really look at the information and then come up with a policy that's going to work for us. " Aska added that they would look at the issue, gather some information and hopefully reach a decision on what's best for the hospital and Geary County.

Hospital leaders will talk about a possible mandatory employee COVID-19 vaccination 

State Treasurer Lynn Roger has presented a check for $25,695.25 in unclaimed property funds to Geary County. "This is money that has been turned back for various vendors that should have gone to Geary County originally. It's refunds, or I think in this case some dividends for businesses and they got diverted." Rogers added that after a period of time it gets turned back into the state, and the Treasurer's Office is responsible to return it to people in the best way that they can.

Geary County Treasurer Kathy Tremont said right now the money will be put into the county's general fund. "It's not necessarily extra money but that's where it will be placed. I don't know if it will be redistributed to the units that it came to. Some of them were really small."

State Treasurer Lynn Roger has presented a check for $25,695.25 in unclaimed property funds to Geary County. "This is money that has been turned back for various vendors that should have gone to Geary County originally. It's refunds, or I think in this case some dividends for businesses and they got diverted." Rogers added that after a period of time it gets turned back into the state, and the Treasurer's Office is responsible to return it to people in the best way that they can.Geary County Treasurer Kathy Tremont said right now the money will be put into the county's general fund. "It's not necessarily extra money but that's where it will be placed. I don't know if it will be redistributed to the units that it came to. Some of them were really small."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630029605656.jpeg" alt="( L - R ) Keith Ascher, Lynn Rogers, Alex Tyson, Tiffany Cook, Kathy Tremont and Trish Giordano at the County Office Building on Thursday." />
 <figcaption>( L - R ) Keith Ascher, Lynn Rogers, Alex Tyson, Tiffany Cook, Kathy Tremont and Trish Giordano at the County Office Building on Thursday.</figcaption>
 </figure>

State Treasurer's Office returns funds to Geary County

This weekend is the second and final weekend of Junction City Little Theater’s production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella.&nbsp; Mica Stites direct and Jill Nelson conduct the music.&nbsp; Shows are Friday the 27th&nbsp;and Saturday the 28th&nbsp;at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday the 29th&nbsp;at 2 p.m. at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.

Tickets are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jclittletheater.org/" target="_blank">https://www.jclittletheater.org/</a>

This weekend is the second and final weekend of Junction City Little Theater’s production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella.&nbsp; Mica Stites direct and Jill Nelson conduct the music.&nbsp; Shows are Friday the 27th&nbsp;and Saturday the 28th&nbsp;at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday the 29th&nbsp;at 2 p.m. at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.Tickets are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jclittletheater.org/" target="_blank">https://www.jclittletheater.org/</a>

Little Theater performs Cinderella this weekend

The Department of Defense recently approved a request for assistance from the State Department to provide temporary housing, sustainment, and support inside the United States for vulnerable Afghans at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin; Fort Bliss, Texas; Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey; and Fort Lee, Virginia.

Approximately 500 service members from the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley will provide support to Fort McCoy, Fort Lee, and JBMDL to assist in these efforts as part of the task force located there.

The soldiers from Fort Riley will be joining service members from Fort Hood, Texas; Fort Bliss, Texas; Fort Carson, Colorado; and Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri as part of III Corps’ overall mission, which was announced earlier this week.

U.S. Northern Command is the Department of Defense's lead combatant command for this mission in the continental United States and is providing oversight in support of the Department of State. U.S. Army North, as U.S. Northern Command's Joint Force Land Component Command, is the lead operational command for this mission.

The task forces at Fort McCoy, Fort Lee and JBMDL will provide housing, medical, logistics, and transportation support.

“When our Nation calls, The Big Red One and Fort Riley always answer with action; our troops are highly trained and ready to respond to any mission, anytime and anywhere,” said Lt. Col. Alex Tignor, 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley spokesperson.

The Department of Defense recently approved a request for assistance from the State Department to provide temporary housing, sustainment, and support inside the United States for vulnerable Afghans at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin; Fort Bliss, Texas; Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey; and Fort Lee, Virginia.Approximately 500 service members from the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley will provide support to Fort McCoy, Fort Lee, and JBMDL to assist in these efforts as part of the task force located there.The soldiers from Fort Riley will be joining service members from Fort Hood, Texas; Fort Bliss, Texas; Fort Carson, Colorado; and Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri as part of III Corps’ overall mission, which was announced earlier this week.U.S. Northern Command is the Department of Defense's lead combatant command for this mission in the continental United States and is providing oversight in support of the Department of State. U.S. Army North, as U.S. Northern Command's Joint Force Land Component Command, is the lead operational command for this mission.The task forces at Fort McCoy, Fort Lee and JBMDL will provide housing, medical, logistics, and transportation support.“When our Nation calls, The Big Red One and Fort Riley always answer with action; our troops are highly trained and ready to respond to any mission, anytime and anywhere,” said Lt. Col. Alex Tignor, 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley spokesperson.l

Big Red One and Fort Riley troops deploy in support of Afghan evacuees

GERMANTOWN, Tenn. — McNeill Hotel Co. announced the opening of its newly developed Courtyard by Marriott in Manhattan. It is the 27th property in the company’s portfolio and its first in the State of Kansas. Tyler Stevens is the new hotel’s General Manager. McNeill CEO Phillip H. McNeill, Jr. made the announcement.

Located at 715 N. 12th St., the 127-room Courtyard Manhattan features an innovative lobby space as well as Courtyard’s latest contemporary room design, which offers hybrid zones for working, sleeping, relaxing, and getting ready, as well as mobile check-in and digital key. Amenities include a fitness center; guest laundry; 1,100 square feet of meeting space; the Bistro and Bistro Bar featuring American-style cuisine, Starbucks drinks and an array of cocktails, beer, and wine; and a terrace with outdoor fire pit and seating area.

In the heart of Aggieville and just a short walk to Kansas State University, dining and shopping, the Courtyard Manhattan is also convenient to Bill Snyder Family Stadium, Bramlage Coliseum, Flint Hills Discovery Center and Fort Riley.

“We have a valued partnership with the Marriott brand, and we are pleased to announce the Grand Opening of this ground-up new build for our growing hotel portfolio, which extends our capabilities in property development and our geographic footprint,” said McNeill CEO Phillip H. McNeill Jr.

President and COO Mark Ricketts states “Manhattan, Kansas is an outstanding community with strong demographics and employment base. The new property features multiple demand drivers, as it serves the local convention and university market, as well as leisure tourists.”

McNeill Hotel Company now owns or manages 27 Hilton, Marriott and Hyatt select service and extended stay properties across the Southeast, the Midwest, and Mountain West States, with several additional properties in the acquisition and development pipeline. Twenty-three of these properties are located in university towns.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630008438934.jpeg" alt="McNeill Hotel Company announces opening of Courtyard by Marriott in Manhattan" />
 <figcaption>McNeill Hotel Company announces opening of Courtyard by Marriott in Manhattan</figcaption>
 </figure>GERMANTOWN, Tenn. — McNeill Hotel Co. announced the opening of its newly developed Courtyard by Marriott in Manhattan. It is the 27th property in the company’s portfolio and its first in the State of Kansas. Tyler Stevens is the new hotel’s General Manager. McNeill CEO Phillip H. McNeill, Jr. made the announcement.Located at 715 N. 12th St., the 127-room Courtyard Manhattan features an innovative lobby space as well as Courtyard’s latest contemporary room design, which offers hybrid zones for working, sleeping, relaxing, and getting ready, as well as mobile check-in and digital key. Amenities include a fitness center; guest laundry; 1,100 square feet of meeting space; the Bistro and Bistro Bar featuring American-style cuisine, Starbucks drinks and an array of cocktails, beer, and wine; and a terrace with outdoor fire pit and seating area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630008549128.png" alt="Courtyard by Marriott Manhattan Terrace" />
 <figcaption>Courtyard by Marriott Manhattan Terrace</figcaption>
 </figure>In the heart of Aggieville and just a short walk to Kansas State University, dining and shopping, the Courtyard Manhattan is also convenient to Bill Snyder Family Stadium, Bramlage Coliseum, Flint Hills Discovery Center and Fort Riley.“We have a valued partnership with the Marriott brand, and we are pleased to announce the Grand Opening of this ground-up new build for our growing hotel portfolio, which extends our capabilities in property development and our geographic footprint,” said McNeill CEO Phillip H. McNeill Jr.President and COO Mark Ricketts states “Manhattan, Kansas is an outstanding community with strong demographics and employment base. The new property features multiple demand drivers, as it serves the local convention and university market, as well as leisure tourists.”McNeill Hotel Company now owns or manages 27 Hilton, Marriott and Hyatt select service and extended stay properties across the Southeast, the Midwest, and Mountain West States, with several additional properties in the acquisition and development pipeline. Twenty-three of these properties are located in university towns.

McNeill Hotel Co. announces Courtyard by Marriott in Manhattan

1st District Congressman Tracey Mann will host Town Hall meetings in Geary, Riley and Pottawatomie counties on Monday ( Aug. 30 ).

Mann will be at the Junction City Municipal Building from 8-9 a.m., Pottorf Hall-Clover Room at the Riley County Fairgrounds from 9:45 - 10:45 a.m. and at Iron Clad-Main Area, 427 Lincoln Ave. from 11:15 - 12:15 p.m. on Monday.

The Town Hall meetings are open to the public.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629987183570.jpeg" alt="1st District Congressman Tracey Mann" />
 <figcaption>1st District Congressman Tracey Mann</figcaption>
 </figure>1st District Congressman Tracey Mann will host Town Hall meetings in Geary, Riley and Pottawatomie counties on Monday ( Aug. 30 ).Mann will be at the Junction City Municipal Building from 8-9 a.m., Pottorf Hall-Clover Room at the Riley County Fairgrounds from 9:45 - 10:45 a.m. and at Iron Clad-Main Area, 427 Lincoln Ave. from 11:15 - 12:15 p.m. on Monday.The Town Hall meetings are open to the public.

Congressman Mann will conduct Town Hall meetings in the region

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Wamego School District is quarantining kids in school, in modified classrooms.

Director of Instructional Services and Assistant Superintendent Scott Meitler said the modified rooms give students the same access they would remotely, in the classroom.

“We actually have a separate room for them that they can come, still get assignments, if we can get it set up where they can zoom into their teacher’s classroom we do that as well,” he said. “It’s a separate room, we have the safety measures in place, they’re 6 feet apart, as long as they’re not positive (for COVID-19) then they can keep coming to school each day like that.”

Students arrive at school later and leave earlier than other students through a different door. Desks are set at least six feet apart with barriers between them. They installed an air purifier in the room and students will use their own bathroom.

“All of our quarantine students at the high school are in one classroom and it doesn’t matter the grade and they each have their own laptop and teachers are pushing out work,” said Meitler. “Essentially like they would at home except at school in this classroom. They can zoom in and be in the instruction with the teacher.”&nbsp;

A new state law this year allows school districts no more than 40 hours of remote learning to students for state funding purposes. Meitler said the modified classrooms do not count towards those hours.

By WIBW TVTOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Wamego School District is quarantining kids in school, in modified classrooms.Director of Instructional Services and Assistant Superintendent Scott Meitler said the modified rooms give students the same access they would remotely, in the classroom.“We actually have a separate room for them that they can come, still get assignments, if we can get it set up where they can zoom into their teacher’s classroom we do that as well,” he said. “It’s a separate room, we have the safety measures in place, they’re 6 feet apart, as long as they’re not positive (for COVID-19) then they can keep coming to school each day like that.”Students arrive at school later and leave earlier than other students through a different door. Desks are set at least six feet apart with barriers between them. They installed an air purifier in the room and students will use their own bathroom.“All of our quarantine students at the high school are in one classroom and it doesn’t matter the grade and they each have their own laptop and teachers are pushing out work,” said Meitler. “Essentially like they would at home except at school in this classroom. They can zoom in and be in the instruction with the teacher.”&nbsp;A new state law this year allows school districts no more than 40 hours of remote learning to students for state funding purposes. Meitler said the modified classrooms do not count towards those hours.

Modified classrooms are being put into use in Wamego USD 320

Kansas Judicial Administration officials have released information that couples who need a marriage license in September should apply now. Marriage license processing will be delayed in September due to a database courts use being offline.

The database will be offline September 8-13. It is managed by the Office of Vital Statistics with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

If you apply for a marriage license by August 31, you will have your license by September 7. If you apply after August 31, your application will be processed after September 14, when the database comes back online.

Apply for your marriage license online at www.kscourts.org/marriage.

Kansas Judicial Administration officials have released information that couples who need a marriage license in September should apply now. Marriage license processing will be delayed in September due to a database courts use being offline.The database will be offline September 8-13. It is managed by the Office of Vital Statistics with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.If you apply for a marriage license by August 31, you will have your license by September 7. If you apply after August 31, your application will be processed after September 14, when the database comes back online.Apply for your marriage license online at www.kscourts.org/marriage.

Delay will occur in marriage license processing

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a theft scam.

Just after 3:30p.m. Wednesday, police filed a report for theft in the 2200 block of Prairie Glen Place in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department report.

A 39-year-old man reported an unknown suspect scammed him through a job offer that included payment for a vehicle. 

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $4560. 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.

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a theft scam.Just after 3:30p.m. Wednesday, police filed a report for theft in the 2200 block of Prairie Glen Place in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department report.A 39-year-old man reported an unknown suspect scammed him through a job offer that included payment for a vehicle. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $4560. Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD investigates alleged job offer scam

EDITOR's Note: The story has been updated after incorrect information from the Riley County Police department activity report.

MANHATTAN—A Manhattan man was injured in an accident just before 10a.m. Tuesday in Manhattan.

A 2001 GMC Sierra 2500 driven by Benjamin Ochoa, 32 of Manhattan t-boned a 2015 Acura RDX driven by Sushma Prankash, 66, of Manhattan at the intersection of Stonehenge Drive and Treesmill Drive in Manhattan.

EMS transported Prankash for treatment of minor injuries. Police also issued Prankash a citation for failure to yield right of way at a yield sign, according to the RCPD.

EDITOR's Note: The story has been updated after incorrect information from the Riley County Police department activity report.MANHATTAN—A Manhattan man was injured in an accident just before 10a.m. Tuesday in Manhattan.A 2001 GMC Sierra 2500 driven by Benjamin Ochoa, 32 of Manhattan t-boned a 2015 Acura RDX driven by Sushma Prankash, 66, of Manhattan at the intersection of Stonehenge Drive and Treesmill Drive in Manhattan.EMS transported Prankash for treatment of minor injuries. Police also issued Prankash a citation for failure to yield right of way at a yield sign, according to the RCPD.

Correction: Manhattan injured after 2-vehicle crash

Geary County Emergency Management has announced that there will not be any burning allowed in the county on Thursday. Winds are forecast at up to 25 miles per hour.

Geary County Emergency Management has announced that there will not be any burning allowed in the county on Thursday. Winds are forecast at up to 25 miles per hour.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629985204687.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Burning will not be allowed on Thursday

SALINA — With a focus on national expansion, meeting the demands of the aerospace industry and a recognition of the niche mission of the campus, Kansas State University's Polytechnic Campus is rebranding to be&nbsp;<a href="https://salina.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus</a>. "This change establishes the first&nbsp;aerospace and technology campus in Kansas and shows our Salina campus is ready to take on the accelerating needs of the aerospace and advanced manufacturing industries," said Richard Myers, K-State president. "The Aerospace and Technology Campus will be a national leader in advanced&nbsp;aviation and aerospace training, education and engineering through research, innovation and instruction." Since joining the Kansas State University system in 1991,&nbsp;the campus has&nbsp;housed the university's aviation and engineering technology programs. These are niche programs, separate from any programs offered on the other K-State campuses.&nbsp;The historical lineage of the campus — a two-year technical institution that merged with a public university — uniquely positions it to serve all career-entry points into the aerospace and advanced manufacturing industries. The Aerospace&nbsp;and Technology Campus will retain the College of Technology and Aviation, which includes three academic departments: aviation, integrated studies and unmanned aircraft systems.&nbsp;The campus offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs, as well as credit and non-credit technical and graduate-level certificates. It is also home to in-demand programs that assist employers with upskilling their current workforces. Alysia Starkey, CEO and dean of the campus, says the new&nbsp;name better represents what the campus offers for prospective students, donors and community and industry partners, and is a better representation of the education received by alumni.

Aligning the campus brand and name has been a goal since 2017 when the campus, with help from community partners in Salina, launched its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/research-training/global-aeronautics-initiative/" target="_blank">Global Aeronautics Initiative</a>&nbsp;with the vision to establish an aerospace and technology campus. Starkey said that the&nbsp;campus's focus on a&nbsp;hands-on&nbsp;and&nbsp;real-world&nbsp;approach to preparing students to be career-ready will remain the same.

SALINA — With a focus on national expansion, meeting the demands of the aerospace industry and a recognition of the niche mission of the campus, Kansas State University's Polytechnic Campus is rebranding to be&nbsp;<a href="https://salina.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus</a>. "This change establishes the first&nbsp;aerospace and technology campus in Kansas and shows our Salina campus is ready to take on the accelerating needs of the aerospace and advanced manufacturing industries," said Richard Myers, K-State president. "The Aerospace and Technology Campus will be a national leader in advanced&nbsp;aviation and aerospace training, education and engineering through research, innovation and instruction." Since joining the Kansas State University system in 1991,&nbsp;the campus has&nbsp;housed the university's aviation and engineering technology programs. These are niche programs, separate from any programs offered on the other K-State campuses.&nbsp;The historical lineage of the campus — a two-year technical institution that merged with a public university — uniquely positions it to serve all career-entry points into the aerospace and advanced manufacturing industries. The Aerospace&nbsp;and Technology Campus will retain the College of Technology and Aviation, which includes three academic departments: aviation, integrated studies and unmanned aircraft systems.&nbsp;The campus offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs, as well as credit and non-credit technical and graduate-level certificates. It is also home to in-demand programs that assist employers with upskilling their current workforces. Alysia Starkey, CEO and dean of the campus, says the new&nbsp;name better represents what the campus offers for prospective students, donors and community and industry partners, and is a better representation of the education received by alumni. Aligning the campus brand and name has been a goal since 2017 when the campus, with help from community partners in Salina, launched its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/research-training/global-aeronautics-initiative/" target="_blank">Global Aeronautics Initiative</a>&nbsp;with the vision to establish an aerospace and technology campus. Starkey said that the&nbsp;campus's focus on a&nbsp;hands-on&nbsp;and&nbsp;real-world&nbsp;approach to preparing students to be career-ready will remain the same.

State gains first aerospace and technology campus with rebranding of Kansas State University's Salina campus

Army officials have announced that training noise from Fort&nbsp; Riley will be heard now through Aug. 29th.

Fort Riley and the 1st Infantry Division appreciate the sacrifices made by their neighbors as they train for the defense of our country. Among those sacrifices is the occasional disruption of daily life by the sometimes intrusive noise caused by on-post training.

The 1st Infantry Division and the other units that call Fort Riley and the Central Flint Hills Region home, train hard to be ready at a moment's notice to answer our nation's call. Sometimes this fast-paced training results in loud artillery, low-flying aircraft, weapons or demolition noise.

Please see below for the times during which scheduled training could yield significant noise from tank, artillery and mortar certification fire:

Army officials have announced that training noise from Fort&nbsp; Riley will be heard now through Aug. 29th.Fort Riley and the 1st Infantry Division appreciate the sacrifices made by their neighbors as they train for the defense of our country. Among those sacrifices is the occasional disruption of daily life by the sometimes intrusive noise caused by on-post training.The 1st Infantry Division and the other units that call Fort Riley and the Central Flint Hills Region home, train hard to be ready at a moment's notice to answer our nation's call. Sometimes this fast-paced training results in loud artillery, low-flying aircraft, weapons or demolition noise.Please see below for the times during which scheduled training could yield significant noise from tank, artillery and mortar certification fire:<ul>
 <li>August 23 through August 29: There WILL be loud noise during all hours.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>

Training noise can be expected

MANHATTAN — Celebrate Kansas State University's fight against cancer with a&nbsp;<a href="http://cancer.k-state.edu/newsevents/FightingForACureShirt.html" target="_blank">Fighting for a Cure shirt</a>, and wear it to the home football game, or anywhere, Saturday, Oct. 16, for the eighth annual Fighting for a Cure Day. Join Bill Snyder, K-State's former head football coach; Chris Klieman, current head football coach; Eric Stonestreet, Emmy Award-winning actor and alumnus; Kevin Lockett, former K-State Wildcat and Kansas City Chiefs football player; and many others in celebrating K-State's fight against cancer with a Fighting for a Cure shirt, honoring the K-State family's cancer survivors and researchers. The Fighting for a Cure Day celebration will include a special tribute by the K-State Marching Band during halftime of the football game and a tailgate party in Cat Town at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Fighting for a Cure shirts raise funds and awareness for the&nbsp;<a href="http://cancer.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Johnson Cancer Research Center</a>&nbsp;at K-State. The center supports K-State's most promising cancer research programs and students. Since 2014, shirt sales have raised around $50,000. This year, several shirt styles and a baseball cap are available, some with pink and some without. Short-sleeve t-shirts are available in either purple or gray for $25. Three-quarter sleeve baseball shirts are available in gray with purple sleeves for $30. The sweatshirts and hats are purple and priced at $32 and $20, respectively. The graphic on all purple shirts is pink and white, and the graphic on all gray shirts and the hat is purple and white. All items feature a Powercat and the phrase "Fighting ever fighting for a cure," which is inspired by K-State's fight song, "Wildcat Victory." &nbsp;

Fighting for a Cure items can be purchased in Manhattan at G. Thomas Jewelers, 419 Poyntz Ave.; 1419 Mercantile, 3039 Anderson Ave.; Yee Haw Country Outfitters, 431 Poyntz Ave.; and the&nbsp;Johnson Cancer Research Center, 1711 Claflin Road. They are also available for purchase&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatefightscancer.com/collections/all" target="_blank">online</a>. Supporters are encouraged to join the social media campaign to publicize K-State Fighting for a Cure Day by posting photos of themselves and friends wearing the shirt, along with the hashtag #HelpKStateFightCancer. Photos from<a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?vanity=KStateCancerResearch&amp;set=a.10157893537347675" target="_blank">&nbsp;2020</a>&nbsp;and earlier campaigns are on the center's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KStateCancerResearch/" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>. The Johnson Cancer Research Center, in the College of Arts and Sciences, advances cancer research and education at K-State. Its programs are made possible by private donations. Information is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://cancer.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">cancer.k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;and by calling 785-532-6705.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629979325364.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> MANHATTAN — Celebrate Kansas State University's fight against cancer with a&nbsp;<a href="http://cancer.k-state.edu/newsevents/FightingForACureShirt.html" target="_blank">Fighting for a Cure shirt</a>, and wear it to the home football game, or anywhere, Saturday, Oct. 16, for the eighth annual Fighting for a Cure Day. Join Bill Snyder, K-State's former head football coach; Chris Klieman, current head football coach; Eric Stonestreet, Emmy Award-winning actor and alumnus; Kevin Lockett, former K-State Wildcat and Kansas City Chiefs football player; and many others in celebrating K-State's fight against cancer with a Fighting for a Cure shirt, honoring the K-State family's cancer survivors and researchers. The Fighting for a Cure Day celebration will include a special tribute by the K-State Marching Band during halftime of the football game and a tailgate party in Cat Town at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Fighting for a Cure shirts raise funds and awareness for the&nbsp;<a href="http://cancer.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Johnson Cancer Research Center</a>&nbsp;at K-State. The center supports K-State's most promising cancer research programs and students. Since 2014, shirt sales have raised around $50,000. This year, several shirt styles and a baseball cap are available, some with pink and some without. Short-sleeve t-shirts are available in either purple or gray for $25. Three-quarter sleeve baseball shirts are available in gray with purple sleeves for $30. The sweatshirts and hats are purple and priced at $32 and $20, respectively. The graphic on all purple shirts is pink and white, and the graphic on all gray shirts and the hat is purple and white. All items feature a Powercat and the phrase "Fighting ever fighting for a cure," which is inspired by K-State's fight song, "Wildcat Victory." &nbsp;Fighting for a Cure items can be purchased in Manhattan at G. Thomas Jewelers, 419 Poyntz Ave.; 1419 Mercantile, 3039 Anderson Ave.; Yee Haw Country Outfitters, 431 Poyntz Ave.; and the&nbsp;Johnson Cancer Research Center, 1711 Claflin Road. They are also available for purchase&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatefightscancer.com/collections/all" target="_blank">online</a>. Supporters are encouraged to join the social media campaign to publicize K-State Fighting for a Cure Day by posting photos of themselves and friends wearing the shirt, along with the hashtag #HelpKStateFightCancer. Photos from<a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?vanity=KStateCancerResearch&amp;set=a.10157893537347675" target="_blank">&nbsp;2020</a>&nbsp;and earlier campaigns are on the center's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KStateCancerResearch/" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>. The Johnson Cancer Research Center, in the College of Arts and Sciences, advances cancer research and education at K-State. Its programs are made possible by private donations. Information is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://cancer.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">cancer.k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;and by calling 785-532-6705.&nbsp;By Marcia Locke

Kansas State University's eighth annual Fighting for a Cure Day Oct. 16

There will be a signing ceremony for an intergovernmental support agreement at Garrison Headquarters, 500 Huebner Rd, Fort Riley on Friday at 3 p.m.

Col. Will McKannay, US Army Garrison Fort Riley commander,&nbsp; Dr. Reginald Eggleston, USD 475 Superintendent and Dr. Anwar Khoury, President, USD 475 Board of Education will participate in the ceremony. They will commemorate the signing of an intergovernmental support agreement between the U.S. Army Garrison (USAG), Fort Riley and USD 475 for building demolition.

USD 475 operates one middle school and four elementary schools on Fort Riley. In April 2021, the Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation (OLDCC) approved a matching grant for the District to build an additional new elementary school on Fort Riley in place of Jefferson Elementary School. 

The contract USD 475 is utilizing for demolition of the old Jefferson Elementary School (Building 4720) will be modified to include demolition of the old Fort Riley Elementary School (Building 104). The result is an estimated cost savings to the Government of $194-thousand and a cost avoidance for USD 475 through use of the Fort Riley Construction and Debris Landfill.

There will be a signing ceremony for an intergovernmental support agreement at Garrison Headquarters, 500 Huebner Rd, Fort Riley on Friday at 3 p.m.Col. Will McKannay, US Army Garrison Fort Riley commander,&nbsp; Dr. Reginald Eggleston, USD 475 Superintendent and Dr. Anwar Khoury, President, USD 475 Board of Education will participate in the ceremony. They will commemorate the signing of an intergovernmental support agreement between the U.S. Army Garrison (USAG), Fort Riley and USD 475 for building demolition.USD 475 operates one middle school and four elementary schools on Fort Riley. In April 2021, the Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation (OLDCC) approved a matching grant for the District to build an additional new elementary school on Fort Riley in place of Jefferson Elementary School. The contract USD 475 is utilizing for demolition of the old Jefferson Elementary School (Building 4720) will be modified to include demolition of the old Fort Riley Elementary School (Building 104). The result is an estimated cost savings to the Government of $194-thousand and a cost avoidance for USD 475 through use of the Fort Riley Construction and Debris Landfill.

USD 475 and Fort Riley Garrison will enter into an agreement

Dedicated runners battled the heat Wednesday to carry the torch for the Law Enforcement Special Olympic Torch Run through Junction City from Grant Ave. to Heritage Park. The goal was to&nbsp; awareness and support Special Olympics.

Police Chief John Lamb noted that it was extremely hot but they worked together and got through it together. "The Torch Run is law enforcement's way of helping out special Olympics to raise money and awareness about Special Olympics so that they have funding to train and to also travel to the different venues to compete. "

There was representation from Junction City Police and Grandview Plaza Police Departments plus the Geary County Sheriff's Department plus other community members and leaders. "We had over about 30-35 runners. If I recall this was the highest number we have had in awhile.

The run started at 11:02 a.m. but included stops to thank children by Washington Elementary School and Junction City municipal workers who were cheering on the runners, before it ended about 11:40 a.m. Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629936696590.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dedicated runners battled the heat Wednesday to carry the torch for the Law Enforcement Special Olympic Torch Run through Junction City from Grant Ave. to Heritage Park. The goal was to&nbsp; awareness and support Special Olympics.Police Chief John Lamb noted that it was extremely hot but they worked together and got through it together. "The Torch Run is law enforcement's way of helping out special Olympics to raise money and awareness about Special Olympics so that they have funding to train and to also travel to the different venues to compete. "<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629937482088.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>There was representation from Junction City Police and Grandview Plaza Police Departments plus the Geary County Sheriff's Department plus other community members and leaders. "We had over about 30-35 runners. If I recall this was the highest number we have had in awhile.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629937519210.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The run started at 11:02 a.m. but included stops to thank children by Washington Elementary School and Junction City municipal workers who were cheering on the runners, before it ended about 11:40 a.m. Wednesday.

Torch Run supports Special Olympics

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club met at 6:50 AM on August 25 at the Hampton Inn Meeting Room.

Taylor and Gigi Booth were the guest speakers and Dr. Mary Devin was a guest of the club.

Taylor is one of the most recent recipients of the Geary Community Schools Foundation’s Supporting A Diverse Staff: Loans for Aspiring Educators scholarship. She is a graduate of Junction City High School and currently a junior at Fort Hays State University majoring in Elementary Education. Taylor shared she was influenced by Jodie Testa and Amy Rather at Lincoln. Her goal is to graduate with a degree in education; be a licensed teacher; get hired to teach in USD 475 and then pursue licensure as a school psychologist. “Dr. Betsy Crawford, who is now working at Fort Hays State and formerly worked as a school psychologist at Junction City Middle School, has given advice.”

Taylor’s mother, Gigi Booth, told the Optimist Club members she “came from a military background and remembers some of her teachers at Morris Hill Elementary School. Carolyn Kimbrel and Anita Rogge were two of those teachers.” She also attended Ware and Eisenhower Elementary Schools and remembers Wanda McRae and Karen Malec. Gigi graduated from Junction City High School in 1998 and has since worked as a para educator in USD 475; earned two Bachelor’s Degrees; two Master’s Degrees is a licensed teacher; licensed as a Library Media Specialist and school administrator; was the head coach of the JCHS volleyball program; and is currently the Principal at Washington Elementary School.

Both Taylor and Gigi stated that they “want to give back to the community that has meant so much to them.” Gigi added that her “father, a military man felt the same way.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629934397464.jpeg" alt="Picture: (left) Gigi Booth; (center) Taylor Booth; (right) Don Manley, President JC Breakfast Optimist Club" />
 <figcaption>Picture: (left) Gigi Booth; (center) Taylor Booth; (right) Don Manley, President JC Breakfast Optimist Club</figcaption>
 </figure>The JC Breakfast Optimist Club met at 6:50 AM on August 25 at the Hampton Inn Meeting Room.Taylor and Gigi Booth were the guest speakers and Dr. Mary Devin was a guest of the club.Taylor is one of the most recent recipients of the Geary Community Schools Foundation’s Supporting A Diverse Staff: Loans for Aspiring Educators scholarship. She is a graduate of Junction City High School and currently a junior at Fort Hays State University majoring in Elementary Education. Taylor shared she was influenced by Jodie Testa and Amy Rather at Lincoln. Her goal is to graduate with a degree in education; be a licensed teacher; get hired to teach in USD 475 and then pursue licensure as a school psychologist. “Dr. Betsy Crawford, who is now working at Fort Hays State and formerly worked as a school psychologist at Junction City Middle School, has given advice.”Taylor’s mother, Gigi Booth, told the Optimist Club members she “came from a military background and remembers some of her teachers at Morris Hill Elementary School. Carolyn Kimbrel and Anita Rogge were two of those teachers.” She also attended Ware and Eisenhower Elementary Schools and remembers Wanda McRae and Karen Malec. Gigi graduated from Junction City High School in 1998 and has since worked as a para educator in USD 475; earned two Bachelor’s Degrees; two Master’s Degrees is a licensed teacher; licensed as a Library Media Specialist and school administrator; was the head coach of the JCHS volleyball program; and is currently the Principal at Washington Elementary School.Both Taylor and Gigi stated that they “want to give back to the community that has meant so much to them.” Gigi added that her “father, a military man felt the same way.”

Taylor and Gigi Booth serve as guest speakers

The North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging (NC-FH AAA) has announced the group of speakers who will join them for our first Answers for Older Kansans (AOK) Sunflower Connections event. The first event that highlights practical information and includes fun for seniors and caregivers is slated, Wednesday, Sept. 1 at the Marion Community Center, 203 N. Third St in Marion, Kansas.

·Paul Shipp, managing attorney at Kansas Legal Services and a veteran elder law attorney: “Managing Your Legal Problems When Your Money Runs Out.”

·Erin Yelland, Interim Director of the Kansas State University Center on Aging and a specialist in adult development: “Positive Aging! Positive Attitude!”

·Denise Vann, Program Specialist for the Alzheimer’s Association of Central and Western Kansas who educates communities on Alzheimer’s and Dementia: “Talking With Your Doctor: Being Your Best Health Care Advocate.”

·Dr. Tina Mahal, Director of Prairie View’s Older Adult Services and an expert on services and programs for older adults: “Mental Health Tips and Overview of Older Adult Services at Prairie View”

Paul Shipp will also be available to meet with a limited number of registered attendees at the event. Those interested should contact the NC-FH AAA at 1-800-432-2703 or 785-776-9294 in advance to schedule appointments at the event.

Local musician Bob Delk and members of “Bob and the Boys” will be there to provide some great tunes during lunch!

The North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging (NC-FH AAA) has announced the group of speakers who will join them for our first Answers for Older Kansans (AOK) Sunflower Connections event. The first event that highlights practical information and includes fun for seniors and caregivers is slated, Wednesday, Sept. 1 at the Marion Community Center, 203 N. Third St in Marion, Kansas.Presenters for the event are:·Paul Shipp, managing attorney at Kansas Legal Services and a veteran elder law attorney: “Managing Your Legal Problems When Your Money Runs Out.”·Erin Yelland, Interim Director of the Kansas State University Center on Aging and a specialist in adult development: “Positive Aging! Positive Attitude!”·Denise Vann, Program Specialist for the Alzheimer’s Association of Central and Western Kansas who educates communities on Alzheimer’s and Dementia: “Talking With Your Doctor: Being Your Best Health Care Advocate.”·Dr. Tina Mahal, Director of Prairie View’s Older Adult Services and an expert on services and programs for older adults: “Mental Health Tips and Overview of Older Adult Services at Prairie View”Paul Shipp will also be available to meet with a limited number of registered attendees at the event. Those interested should contact the NC-FH AAA at 1-800-432-2703 or 785-776-9294 in advance to schedule appointments at the event.Local musician Bob Delk and members of “Bob and the Boys” will be there to provide some great tunes during lunch!

Speakers and Topics Announced for AOK Sunflower Connections in Marion

Having attended 27 of the first 28 Kansans Can Success Tour events over the past month – with 22 still to come – I’m sensing a lot of enthusiasm for the vision outlined by Commissioner of Education Randy Watson and Deputy Commissioner Brad Neuenswander. I’m also hearing a lot of questions from news reporters, educators and others about how to explain what Kansans Can is really all about. Here’s my attempt.&nbsp;

To begin with, these are the key “bullet points” or “elevator speech:”&nbsp;

First, Kansas needs to help students be better prepared to be successful adults, and that requires a broader definition of education than we have had in the past.&nbsp;

To be successful, students need not only academic knowledge, but the skills needed to be self-sufficient individuals, civically engaged and giving back to their communities, and successful in the workplace, which for most students will require some education beyond high school.&nbsp;

Second, to accomplish this goal, K-12 public education systems and related policies will need to continue to adapt.&nbsp;

Learning must become more relevant to each student’s needs and goals and focus on broader skills, by personalizing learning for each child and having them work in real world situations through project-based or work-based learning. Schools must expand early childhood programs, address a wider set of student needs, social and emotional as well as academic; and must be closely connected to families, businesses and communities.&nbsp;

Third, the State Board of Education is implementing a plan to help local schools implement&nbsp; these&nbsp;changes.&nbsp;

The State Board has adopted a set of outcomes for student success, a plan to help schools redesign, and an accreditation and recognition system based on these outcomes and redesign. Schools are also being supported by restoration of state funding along with time-limited federal pandemic relief aid. Kansas is already seeing progress, but much continued work to attain the aspirational goals remains to be done, including on-going challenges to recover from the COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;

In short, the goal is to help all students to be better prepared &nbsp;as &nbsp;engaged adults, who help support their communities, and succeed in the workplace and the Kansas economy.&nbsp;

Next, here are some common questions about Kansans Can with a short response. This is to provide more information about why changes in education are needed and how the state is working to guide and support those changes.&nbsp;

Question 1: Why do we need a broader definition of student success than academics alone?&nbsp;

The broader definition of success is based on input from Kansans through public meetings, focus groups and business meetings, as well as from national survey results and multiple regional, state and national studies. It is consistent with goals set by the Kansas Supreme Court and Legislature. It reflects state and national level economic, civic and social needs, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Question 2: Why are Kansas schools engaged in redesign?&nbsp;

The inherited structure of school was designed when most students did not need postsecondary education, when other social structures met more “non-academic needs”, and most jobs required different and often less complex skills. Schools were standardized by age, courses and time, rather than an “effectiveness approach” based on individual student needs.&nbsp;

Question 3: How is the Kansans Can system working to change schools and increase student success?&nbsp;

The State Board has set seven major outcomes to focus the redesign of schools and evaluate progress. Some important progress has been made. There are three quantitative measures: Academically prepared for postsecondary, High school graduation and Postsecondary success; and four qualitative measures: Social-emotional growth, Kindergarten readiness, Individual Plans of Study, and Civic Engagement.&nbsp;

Question 4: What challenges still exist?&nbsp;

While meaningful progress has been made in Kansas K-12 public schools over the past several decades, the new bar for post-high school readiness is significantly higher for all students, not just a few. Not every student &nbsp;completes high school or reaches the academic and other measures they need to prepare them for postsecondary education. Many students still cannot access programs to help them reach these goals due to lack of staff or funding (full restoration of state funding will not be implemented until 2023).&nbsp;

Questions 5: What is the State Board doing to support improvement?&nbsp;

The State Board is helping schools redesign to better support student success. The goal to address unique educational challenges through innovation and continuous improvement, around the core principles of what Kansans wanted from their K-12 schools: personalized learning, real world application, student success skills, and family/business/ community partnerships. The board is also moving to accredit schools on the Kansans Can outcomes; recognizing schools for success in each of the outcomes and has created a task force on graduation requirements.&nbsp;

Question 6: What resources are being provided to Kansas schools to support improvement?&nbsp;

Kansas schools are receiving financial support in two ways: a legislative plan approved by the Kansas Supreme Court to restore operating funds to inflation-adjusted 2009 levels, and federal aid to respond to and recover from the COVID pandemic.&nbsp;

If you have come this far, congratulations! You should have a good overview of Kansans Can. However, the responses to these questions may raise more questions. The second part of this report will run Thursday and include more detailed responses to each question.

Mark Tallman is the associate executive director for advocacy for the Kansas Association of School Boards.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582221969260.jpeg" alt="Mark Tallman. Photo courtesy Kansas Association of School Boards" />
 <figcaption>Mark Tallman. Photo courtesy Kansas Association of School Boards</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARK TALLMANHaving attended 27 of the first 28 Kansans Can Success Tour events over the past month – with 22 still to come – I’m sensing a lot of enthusiasm for the vision outlined by Commissioner of Education Randy Watson and Deputy Commissioner Brad Neuenswander. I’m also hearing a lot of questions from news reporters, educators and others about how to explain what Kansans Can is really all about. Here’s my attempt.&nbsp;To begin with, these are the key “bullet points” or “elevator speech:”&nbsp;First, Kansas needs to help students be better prepared to be successful adults, and that requires a broader definition of education than we have had in the past.&nbsp;To be successful, students need not only academic knowledge, but the skills needed to be self-sufficient individuals, civically engaged and giving back to their communities, and successful in the workplace, which for most students will require some education beyond high school.&nbsp;Second, to accomplish this goal, K-12 public education systems and related policies will need to continue to adapt.&nbsp;Learning must become more relevant to each student’s needs and goals and focus on broader skills, by personalizing learning for each child and having them work in real world situations through project-based or work-based learning. Schools must expand early childhood programs, address a wider set of student needs, social and emotional as well as academic; and must be closely connected to families, businesses and communities.&nbsp;Third, the State Board of Education is implementing a plan to help local schools implement&nbsp; these&nbsp;changes.&nbsp;The State Board has adopted a set of outcomes for student success, a plan to help schools redesign, and an accreditation and recognition system based on these outcomes and redesign. Schools are also being supported by restoration of state funding along with time-limited federal pandemic relief aid. Kansas is already seeing progress, but much continued work to attain the aspirational goals remains to be done, including on-going challenges to recover from the COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;In short, the goal is to help all students to be better prepared &nbsp;as &nbsp;engaged adults, who help support their communities, and succeed in the workplace and the Kansas economy.&nbsp;Next, here are some common questions about Kansans Can with a short response. This is to provide more information about why changes in education are needed and how the state is working to guide and support those changes.&nbsp;Question 1: Why do we need a broader definition of student success than academics alone?&nbsp;The broader definition of success is based on input from Kansans through public meetings, focus groups and business meetings, as well as from national survey results and multiple regional, state and national studies. It is consistent with goals set by the Kansas Supreme Court and Legislature. It reflects state and national level economic, civic and social needs, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;Question 2: Why are Kansas schools engaged in redesign?&nbsp;The inherited structure of school was designed when most students did not need postsecondary education, when other social structures met more “non-academic needs”, and most jobs required different and often less complex skills. Schools were standardized by age, courses and time, rather than an “effectiveness approach” based on individual student needs.&nbsp;Question 3: How is the Kansans Can system working to change schools and increase student success?&nbsp;The State Board has set seven major outcomes to focus the redesign of schools and evaluate progress. Some important progress has been made. There are three quantitative measures: Academically prepared for postsecondary, High school graduation and Postsecondary success; and four qualitative measures: Social-emotional growth, Kindergarten readiness, Individual Plans of Study, and Civic Engagement.&nbsp;Question 4: What challenges still exist?&nbsp;While meaningful progress has been made in Kansas K-12 public schools over the past several decades, the new bar for post-high school readiness is significantly higher for all students, not just a few. Not every student &nbsp;completes high school or reaches the academic and other measures they need to prepare them for postsecondary education. Many students still cannot access programs to help them reach these goals due to lack of staff or funding (full restoration of state funding will not be implemented until 2023).&nbsp;Questions 5: What is the State Board doing to support improvement?&nbsp;The State Board is helping schools redesign to better support student success. The goal to address unique educational challenges through innovation and continuous improvement, around the core principles of what Kansans wanted from their K-12 schools: personalized learning, real world application, student success skills, and family/business/ community partnerships. The board is also moving to accredit schools on the Kansans Can outcomes; recognizing schools for success in each of the outcomes and has created a task force on graduation requirements.&nbsp;Question 6: What resources are being provided to Kansas schools to support improvement?&nbsp;Kansas schools are receiving financial support in two ways: a legislative plan approved by the Kansas Supreme Court to restore operating funds to inflation-adjusted 2009 levels, and federal aid to respond to and recover from the COVID pandemic.&nbsp;If you have come this far, congratulations! You should have a good overview of Kansans Can. However, the responses to these questions may raise more questions. The second part of this report will run Thursday and include more detailed responses to each question.Mark Tallman is the associate executive director for advocacy for the Kansas Association of School Boards.

Tallman Education Report: Kansans Can -- What's the Plan? (Part 1)

MANHATTAN, Kan. — The Flint Hills Job Fair is attempting to help local businesses and organizations tackle the unemployment issue in the area. The event, held Wednesday until 5p.m., will see more than 30 prospective employers with both part-time and full-time job opportunities.&nbsp;

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the current unemployment rate in Riley County is 4.4% as of June 2021, up 1.7% from May.&nbsp;

With that number in mind, as well as a large class of students at Kansas State University flooding into Manhattan, there are a plethora of positions available for people at all stages of life. So, why are businesses struggling to fill open jobs?&nbsp;

"I think right now there's still a lot of insecurity and indecision about the pandemic," said Crystal Malchose, a representative for Geary County, Kansas, who is hiring for a variety of county jobs. "We are taking steps at Geary County to try to make sure we get our employees vaccinated. We're not requiring it, but we're trying to incentivize them to get the shot."

Certainly, COVID-19 plays a large role in unemployment, after its initial wave, unemployment in Riley County soared to its highest ever mark in March of 2020 at 7.2%, but now with the Delta variant rearing its ugly head, it seems to be creating more obstacles for employers in every field.&nbsp;

Manhattan-Ogden USD 383 says it's also struggling to fill a large amount of roles throughout the district, ranging from paraeducators to food service staff and transportation. Drew Montgomery, director of human resources with the district says he thinks more people need to be aware of just how important employees are to the community, and not just the employer.

"Our classified positions are so important to help support the students and their education," said Montgomery. "The service that they provide the district is invaluable."

The Flint Hills Job fair, orchestrated by Eagle Communications and the Manhattan Town Center provides an opportunity for prospective employees to put a face to the job opening, rather than just see a want ad on a website or in a newspaper.&nbsp;

"Right now they need to see us as an opportunity," said Malchose. "It's one thing to read about it or hear about it, but it's a whole other level if they can actually see the interest and see what we have to offer, and that we're people too, we're not just an organization and we see them as more than just a paycheck."

The organization of events like the Flint Hills Job Fair takes an immense amount of effort from the host and its participants, and Eagle Communication's Ross Snyder was at the forefront of it all. According to Snyder, it's crucial to businesses to be able get in front of prospective employees as well as customers, and the job fair, in addition to traditional advertising is one of the best ways to do it.&nbsp;

"It's just about getting that awareness," said Snyder. "Being here today will let people be aware of what's available and get jobs filled that need to be filled."&nbsp;

For any prospective employees, a full list of businesses and organizations that participated in the Flint Hills Job Fair and their contact information can be found in the "Job Fair" at the top of the page.

The Flint Hills Job Fair also has plans for an October addition of the event to continually provide support to Riley County and its surrounding areas with employment needs. For businesses to participate in the next job fair, contact Eagle Communications at 785-587-0103 or stop by their office at 301. S. 4th Street in Manhattan.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629908113220.jpeg" alt="Flint Hills Job Fair" />
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 </figure>By Jackson SchneiderMANHATTAN, Kan. — The Flint Hills Job Fair is attempting to help local businesses and organizations tackle the unemployment issue in the area. The event, held Wednesday until 5p.m., will see more than 30 prospective employers with both part-time and full-time job opportunities.&nbsp;According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the current unemployment rate in Riley County is 4.4% as of June 2021, up 1.7% from May.&nbsp;With that number in mind, as well as a large class of students at Kansas State University flooding into Manhattan, there are a plethora of positions available for people at all stages of life. So, why are businesses struggling to fill open jobs?&nbsp;"I think right now there's still a lot of insecurity and indecision about the pandemic," said Crystal Malchose, a representative for Geary County, Kansas, who is hiring for a variety of county jobs. "We are taking steps at Geary County to try to make sure we get our employees vaccinated. We're not requiring it, but we're trying to incentivize them to get the shot."Certainly, COVID-19 plays a large role in unemployment, after its initial wave, unemployment in Riley County soared to its highest ever mark in March of 2020 at 7.2%, but now with the Delta variant rearing its ugly head, it seems to be creating more obstacles for employers in every field.&nbsp;Manhattan-Ogden USD 383 says it's also struggling to fill a large amount of roles throughout the district, ranging from paraeducators to food service staff and transportation. Drew Montgomery, director of human resources with the district says he thinks more people need to be aware of just how important employees are to the community, and not just the employer."Our classified positions are so important to help support the students and their education," said Montgomery. "The service that they provide the district is invaluable."The Flint Hills Job fair, orchestrated by Eagle Communications and the Manhattan Town Center provides an opportunity for prospective employees to put a face to the job opening, rather than just see a want ad on a website or in a newspaper.&nbsp;"Right now they need to see us as an opportunity," said Malchose. "It's one thing to read about it or hear about it, but it's a whole other level if they can actually see the interest and see what we have to offer, and that we're people too, we're not just an organization and we see them as more than just a paycheck."The organization of events like the Flint Hills Job Fair takes an immense amount of effort from the host and its participants, and Eagle Communication's Ross Snyder was at the forefront of it all. According to Snyder, it's crucial to businesses to be able get in front of prospective employees as well as customers, and the job fair, in addition to traditional advertising is one of the best ways to do it.&nbsp;"It's just about getting that awareness," said Snyder. "Being here today will let people be aware of what's available and get jobs filled that need to be filled."&nbsp;For any prospective employees, a full list of businesses and organizations that participated in the Flint Hills Job Fair and their contact information can be found in the "Job Fair" at the top of the page.The Flint Hills Job Fair also has plans for an October addition of the event to continually provide support to Riley County and its surrounding areas with employment needs. For businesses to participate in the next job fair, contact Eagle Communications at 785-587-0103 or stop by their office at 301. S. 4th Street in Manhattan.&nbsp;

Flint Hills Job Fair tackling area employment challenges

There is a brand new Junction City High School. It opens this morning.

Approximately four years were spent planning and then building the new high school.

There is a brand new Junction City High School. It opens this morning.Photos by Jackson Schneider:<figure>
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 </figure>Approximately four years were spent planning and then building the new high school.

This is opening day at JCHS

Students report to the new JCHS for their first day of classes there on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Jackson Schneider, 107.9 FM / 1420 KJCK AM will be reporting from the new school beginning in the news at 7:20 a.m. to provide updates on opening day.&nbsp;

Some construction remains to be completed in areas of the school such as a multipurpose room and some coaches locker room areas.

Students report to the new JCHS for their first day of classes there on Wednesday.&nbsp;Jackson Schneider, 107.9 FM / 1420 KJCK AM will be reporting from the new school beginning in the news at 7:20 a.m. to provide updates on opening day.&nbsp;Some construction remains to be completed in areas of the school such as a multipurpose room and some coaches locker room areas.