MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary at a fraternity house in Manhattan.

Just before 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, police listed Sunflower Bank as the victim when it was reported three unknown men broke into the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity house in the&nbsp;1600 block of McCain Lane in Manhattan and stole kitchen items. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $8,720. 

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.&nbsp;

MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary at a fraternity house in Manhattan.Just before 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, police listed Sunflower Bank as the victim when it was reported three unknown men broke into the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity house in the&nbsp;1600 block of McCain Lane in Manhattan and stole kitchen items. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $8,720. 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.&nbsp;

RCPD investigates burglary at fraternity house

Junction City leaders floated an idea this week for a new city transient guest tax and movement of the Convention and Visitor's Bureau under Chamber of Commerce control. The city could have a tax ranging from six and a half to eight percent, replacing the existing six percent Geary County tax that currently exists in Junction City. The county TGT would continue in effect in Grandview Plaza and Milford. The tax is paid by users of lodging facilities.

CVB Advisory Committee Chair Florence Whitebread said that panel is against the bed tax idea at this time and does not favor raising it. She referred to County Commission Chair Trish Giordano, who attended the committee's meeting on Tuesday. Whitebread stated, "She at this point is totally against it. So we want to do the best we can do with what we have and I know that there are lots of areas that are very jealous of our area because we do have the ( Milford ) lake. During the COVID time we were able to do events out there that we couldn't do anyplace else. At this time everybody wants to keep it with the county."

Junction City leaders floated an idea this week for a new city transient guest tax and movement of the Convention and Visitor's Bureau under Chamber of Commerce control. The city could have a tax ranging from six and a half to eight percent, replacing the existing six percent Geary County tax that currently exists in Junction City. The county TGT would continue in effect in Grandview Plaza and Milford. The tax is paid by users of lodging facilities.CVB Advisory Committee Chair Florence Whitebread said that panel is against the bed tax idea at this time and does not favor raising it. She referred to County Commission Chair Trish Giordano, who attended the committee's meeting on Tuesday. Whitebread stated, "She at this point is totally against it. So we want to do the best we can do with what we have and I know that there are lots of areas that are very jealous of our area because we do have the ( Milford ) lake. During the COVID time we were able to do events out there that we couldn't do anyplace else. At this time everybody wants to keep it with the county."

New transient guest tax idea draws opposition

Junction City Police Department Community Involvement Unit brings will show movie Wonder Woman 1984, this Friday at Heritage Park downtown. The movie will start at 9 p.m. Popcorn and water will be provided for free. 

The movie is sponsored by Sunflower Bank. If inclement weather is possible, Movies At the Park will be moved indoors to the Municipal Building, 700 N. Jefferson Street.

Junction City Police Department Community Involvement Unit brings will show movie Wonder Woman 1984, this Friday at Heritage Park downtown. The movie will start at 9 p.m. Popcorn and water will be provided for free. The movie is sponsored by Sunflower Bank. If inclement weather is possible, Movies At the Park will be moved indoors to the Municipal Building, 700 N. Jefferson Street.

Movie in the Park will be held Friday

Tava Gustafson had the grand champion market steer in the 4-H Beef Show at the Geary County Free Fair. "I'm happy that I did it but I'm really going to miss this steer. We spent a lot of time together. He's probably one of my favorite steers I've ever had." Tava estimated she spent about three hours per day working with the steer, named Hayden.

This is the third consecutive year that Gustafson has had the grand champion in the Beef Show.

Kaitlyn Butler had the reserve grand champion. This is her first year in the steer project. She noted that this is her final year in 4-H since she is 18. "So I really told my dad for my last year I wanted to take a steer. " Butler put in a lot of work with the steer, named Ricardo. "I have put in a lot of Sunday mornings going out to see the steer, to tie him up, wash him, feed him, blow him everything you could imagine. It just feels really good to know that my hard work has paid off."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626869083230.jpeg" alt="Tava Gustafson with her steer Hayden." />
 <figcaption>Tava Gustafson with her steer Hayden.</figcaption>
 </figure>Tava Gustafson had the grand champion market steer in the 4-H Beef Show at the Geary County Free Fair. "I'm happy that I did it but I'm really going to miss this steer. We spent a lot of time together. He's probably one of my favorite steers I've ever had." Tava estimated she spent about three hours per day working with the steer, named Hayden.This is the third consecutive year that Gustafson has had the grand champion in the Beef Show.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626869268041.jpeg" alt="Kaitlyn Butler with her reserve grand champion steer Ricardo." />
 <figcaption>Kaitlyn Butler with her reserve grand champion steer Ricardo.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kaitlyn Butler had the reserve grand champion. This is her first year in the steer project. She noted that this is her final year in 4-H since she is 18. "So I really told my dad for my last year I wanted to take a steer. " Butler put in a lot of work with the steer, named Ricardo. "I have put in a lot of Sunday mornings going out to see the steer, to tie him up, wash him, feed him, blow him everything you could imagine. It just feels really good to know that my hard work has paid off."

Gustafson and Butler take home top honors in the 4-H Beef Show

Geary County 4-H members are showing their projects and displaying their animals at the Free Fair this week. Highlights on Wednesday will include arrival of the open class food entries, 4-H poultry and rabbit judging, the 4-H Cat Show, and at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday the 4-H swine show.

Here some of the photos from this week at the fair.

Geary County 4-H members are showing their projects and displaying their animals at the Free Fair this week. Highlights on Wednesday will include arrival of the open class food entries, 4-H poultry and rabbit judging, the 4-H Cat Show, and at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday the 4-H swine show.Here some of the photos from this week at the fair.<figure>
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 </figure>The fair continues through Thursday.

Free Fair is in full swing

A full-scale exercise is scheduled for Wednesday at Fort Riley. According to the Army during the day, residents, employees and community members should be aware there may be an increase in emergency response vehicle activity and “Giant Voice” loudspeaker announcements. Tornado sirens will also be heard during the exercise.

Exercise planners do not expect traffic on post to be impacted by the activity, but drivers should be aware of increased emergency response activity.

Whitside Fitness Center will be closed from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to support the exercise. The full-scale exercise is a way to test and improve installation emergency preparedness. The annual exercise involves Fort Riley assets and community partners and helps test, synchronize and evaluate emergency response processes and procedures.

A full-scale exercise is scheduled for Wednesday at Fort Riley. According to the Army during the day, residents, employees and community members should be aware there may be an increase in emergency response vehicle activity and “Giant Voice” loudspeaker announcements. Tornado sirens will also be heard during the exercise.Exercise planners do not expect traffic on post to be impacted by the activity, but drivers should be aware of increased emergency response activity.Whitside Fitness Center will be closed from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to support the exercise. The full-scale exercise is a way to test and improve installation emergency preparedness. The annual exercise involves Fort Riley assets and community partners and helps test, synchronize and evaluate emergency response processes and procedures.

Fort Riley to hold full-scale exercise Wednesday

TOPEKA— A Kansas man is behind bars after weapons and drugs were found in his vehicle during a traffic stop&nbsp; Monday night, according to the Shawnee County Sheriff.&nbsp;Richard G. Primera, 31, of Council Grove is in custody and faces multiple charges, including criminal possession of a firearm and possession of methamphetamine after a traffic stop in an area of SW Topeka Blvd. on Monday night.

Just after 8:30 p.m., a deputy conducted a traffic top on a&nbsp; 2009 Saab in an area of SW Topeka Blvd. During the investigation, it said it was found that Primera had a felony warrant out of Lyon Co. He was then arrested.

Primera was booked into the Shawnee Co. Dept. of Corrections for his warrant and on requested charges of criminal possession of a firearm, criminal carrying of a weapon, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, interference with law enforcement and multiple traffic-related violations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626812271667.png" alt="Primera photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Primera photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA— A Kansas man is behind bars after weapons and drugs were found in his vehicle during a traffic stop&nbsp; Monday night, according to the Shawnee County Sheriff.&nbsp;Richard G. Primera, 31, of Council Grove is in custody and faces multiple charges, including criminal possession of a firearm and possession of methamphetamine after a traffic stop in an area of SW Topeka Blvd. on Monday night.Just after 8:30 p.m., a deputy conducted a traffic top on a&nbsp; 2009 Saab in an area of SW Topeka Blvd. During the investigation, it said it was found that Primera had a felony warrant out of Lyon Co. He was then arrested.Primera was booked into the Shawnee Co. Dept. of Corrections for his warrant and on requested charges of criminal possession of a firearm, criminal carrying of a weapon, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, interference with law enforcement and multiple traffic-related violations.

Council Grove man arrested after guns, drugs found during traffic stop

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Local organizations have been included in grants to reduce chronic disease risks.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment says its Community Health Promotion team has announced the recipients of the 2022 Chronic Disease Risk Reduction Community Grant. In total, it said there are 22 grantees that will cover 34 counties and over 2.9 million Kansans.

According to the KDHE, the CDRR Community Grant Program provides funding, training and technical support to communities in order to address chronic disease risk reduction through evidence-based strategies that impact tobacco use, physical activity and nutrition. It said strategies include reducing secondhand smoke exposure, preventing kids from using tobacco, promoting tobacco treatment and the Kansas Tobacco Quitline, increasing physical activity and improving community nutrition.

“We are proud that the CDRR grant allows communities to assess their health data, address local priorities through policy, promote health and wellness and often apply for other funding opportunities,” said Secretary Lee A. Norman, M.D., Kansas Department of Health and Environment.“We are proud that the CDRR grant allows communities to assess their health data, address local priorities through policy, promote health and wellness and often apply for other funding opportunities,” said Secretary Lee A. Norman, M.D., Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

For more information about the CDRR Community Grant Program, click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdheks.gov/tobacco/cdrr.htm?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

By WIBW's Sarah MotterTOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Local organizations have been included in grants to reduce chronic disease risks.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment says its Community Health Promotion team has announced the recipients of the 2022 Chronic Disease Risk Reduction Community Grant. In total, it said there are 22 grantees that will cover 34 counties and over 2.9 million Kansans.According to the KDHE, the CDRR Community Grant Program provides funding, training and technical support to communities in order to address chronic disease risk reduction through evidence-based strategies that impact tobacco use, physical activity and nutrition. It said strategies include reducing secondhand smoke exposure, preventing kids from using tobacco, promoting tobacco treatment and the Kansas Tobacco Quitline, increasing physical activity and improving community nutrition.“We are proud that the CDRR grant allows communities to assess their health data, address local priorities through policy, promote health and wellness and often apply for other funding opportunities,” said Secretary Lee A. Norman, M.D., Kansas Department of Health and Environment.“We are proud that the CDRR grant allows communities to assess their health data, address local priorities through policy, promote health and wellness and often apply for other funding opportunities,” said Secretary Lee A. Norman, M.D., Kansas Department of Health and Environment.The KDHE said grantees are as follows:<ul>
 <li>Thrive Allen County, Inc. (Allen County)</li><li>Barton County Health Department (Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford Counties)</li><li>Health and Wellness Advocates of Cherokee County (Cherokee County)</li><li>Crawford County Health Department (Crawford County)</li><li>Quality of Life Coalition (Dickinson County)</li><li>Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department (Douglas County)</li><li>Edwards County Economic Development Corporation (Edwards and Hodgeman Counties)</li><li>LiveWell Finney County Health Coalition (Finney, Stanton and Scott Counties)</li><li>Grant County Community Foundation Office (Grant County)</li><li>Harvey County Health Department (Harvey County)</li><li>Johnson County Department of Health and Environment (Johnson County)</li><li>Crosswinds Counseling &amp; Wellness (Lyon County)</li><li>Miami County Health Department (Miami County)</li><li>North Central- Mitchell County Medical Foundation (Mitchell, Ellsworth, Jewell, Lincoln, Ottawa, Republic and Smith Counties)</li><li>Montgomery County Health Department (Montgomery County)</li><li>Reno County Health Department (Reno County)</li><li>Riley County Health Department (Riley County)</li><li>Central Kansas Foundation (Saline County)</li><li>Medical Society of Sedgwick County (Sedgwick County)</li><li>Shawnee County Health Agency (Shawnee County)</li><li>Wilson Medical Center (Wilson County)</li><li>Unified Government Public Health Department (Wyandotte County)</li>
 </ul>For more information about the CDRR Community Grant Program, click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdheks.gov/tobacco/cdrr.htm?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

KDHE awards grant to reduce chronic disease risks to local organizations

TOPEKA—Governor Laura Kelly announced Tuesday 36 cities in Kansas will get a combined total of $23 million to improve highways and intersections as part of the Kansas Department of Transportation’s City Connecting Link Improvement Program, according to a media release from her office.

“Through our bipartisan transportation plan, we are committed to preserving and improving Kansas’s highways by investing transportation dollars in the projects they were intended for,” Governor Kelly said. “By working with local leaders to address transportation challenges and strengthen our state’s roadway system, we will create jobs and business opportunities now and for future generations.”

According to Gov. Kelly, Highway Infrastructure Program funds headed to Kansas enable this round of CCLIP funds to increase from $18 million to $23 million for use in 2022-2024. She said a City Connecting Link is any route of the State Highway System located in the corporate limits of a city.

The Kansas Governor said demand for CCLIP funding was high with cities that have dealt with the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. She said KDOT received 61 applications requesting $37 million in funding towards $47 million in total construction.

“The CCLIP program is another way KDOT partners with communities to provide more options and help solve transportation problems,” said Secretary Julie Lorenz. “CCLIP projects help cities improve safety and contribute to economic growth and vitality.”

Under the CCLIP, Gov. Kelly said a city is required to contribute up to 25% of the project cost based on its population, however, some cities contribute significantly more than others. She said cities with a population under 2,500 are not required to provide a match.

According to Gov. Kelly, CCLIP projects fit into one of three categories:

Gov. Kelly said funded projects are as follows:

To view a map of the CCLIP awards, click&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/KDOT-CCLIP-map-2023-24.jpg" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

TOPEKA—Governor Laura Kelly announced Tuesday 36 cities in Kansas will get a combined total of $23 million to improve highways and intersections as part of the Kansas Department of Transportation’s City Connecting Link Improvement Program, according to a media release from her office.“Through our bipartisan transportation plan, we are committed to preserving and improving Kansas’s highways by investing transportation dollars in the projects they were intended for,” Governor Kelly said. “By working with local leaders to address transportation challenges and strengthen our state’s roadway system, we will create jobs and business opportunities now and for future generations.”According to Gov. Kelly, Highway Infrastructure Program funds headed to Kansas enable this round of CCLIP funds to increase from $18 million to $23 million for use in 2022-2024. She said a City Connecting Link is any route of the State Highway System located in the corporate limits of a city.The Kansas Governor said demand for CCLIP funding was high with cities that have dealt with the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. She said KDOT received 61 applications requesting $37 million in funding towards $47 million in total construction.“The CCLIP program is another way KDOT partners with communities to provide more options and help solve transportation problems,” said Secretary Julie Lorenz. “CCLIP projects help cities improve safety and contribute to economic growth and vitality.”Under the CCLIP, Gov. Kelly said a city is required to contribute up to 25% of the project cost based on its population, however, some cities contribute significantly more than others. She said cities with a population under 2,500 are not required to provide a match.According to Gov. Kelly, CCLIP projects fit into one of three categories:<ul>
 <li>Surface Preservation - These projects involve maintenance work like resurfacing and are funded up to $300,000 per project.</li><li>Pavement Restoration - These projects are funded up to $1 million and usually involve full-depth pavement replacement without changes to the overall geometric characteristics and may also address drainage issues.</li><li>Geometric Improvement - These projects address geometric issues like adding turn lanes, improving intersections or modifying the lane configuration and are funded up to $1 million per project.</li>
 </ul>Gov. Kelly said funded projects are as follows:<ul>
 <li>Fairview -&nbsp;U.S. 36, Geometric Improvement, $2,000,000</li><li>Centralia -&nbsp;K-9, Geometric Improvement, $1,000,000</li><li>Emporia&nbsp;-&nbsp;U.S. 50, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>Horton -&nbsp;U.S. 73, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>St. Marys -&nbsp;K-63, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>Atchison -&nbsp;K-7, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>Manhattan -&nbsp;K-18, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>Cawker City -&nbsp;U.S. 24, Geometric Improvement, $1,000,000</li><li>Abilene -&nbsp;K-15, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>Clay Center -&nbsp;K-15, Surface Preservation, $600,000</li><li>Concordia -&nbsp;K-9, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>McPherson -&nbsp;U.S. 81B, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>Council Grove -&nbsp;U.S. 56, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>Ellsworth -&nbsp;K-14, Surface Preservation, $600,000</li><li>Colby -&nbsp;U.S. 24, Geometric Improvement, $1,000,000</li><li>Stockton -&nbsp;U.S. 24, Geometric Improvement, $1,000,000</li><li>Baxter Springs -&nbsp;U.S. 69A, Pavement Restoration, $1,000,000</li><li>Parsons -&nbsp;U.S. 59, Pavement Restoration, $1,000,000</li><li>Independence -&nbsp;U.S. 75, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>Independence -&nbsp;U.S. 75, Geometric Improvement, $1,000,000</li><li>Hoisington -&nbsp;K-4, Pavement Restoration, $1,000,000</li><li>Belle Plaine -&nbsp;K-55, Pavement Restoration, $2,000,000</li><li>Augusta -&nbsp;U.S. 54, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>Larned -&nbsp;K-19, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>Kingman -&nbsp;U.S. 54, Pavement Restoration, $1,000,000</li><li>Lyons -&nbsp;U.S. 56, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>El Dorado -&nbsp;U.S. 77, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>Hutchinson -&nbsp;K-61, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>Wellington -&nbsp;U.S. 160, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>Newton -&nbsp;K-15, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>Winfield -&nbsp;U.S. 77, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>Great Bend -&nbsp;K-96, Surface Preservation, $300,000</li><li>Garden City -&nbsp;K-156, Geometric Improvement, $1,000,000</li><li>Ness City -&nbsp;K-96, Pavement Restoration, $750,000</li><li>Cimarron -&nbsp;K-23, Surface Preservation, $600,000</li><li>Leoti -&nbsp;K-25, Pavement Restoration, $500,000</li>
 </ul>To view a map of the CCLIP awards, click&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/KDOT-CCLIP-map-2023-24.jpg" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

Gov. announces 36 cities to receive highway improvement project funds

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - The Big Red One Year of Honor will commemorate two more Medal of Honor recipients from the 1st Infantry Division.

Fort Riley says it and the 1st Infantry Division will host the next Big Red One Year of Honor event on Wednesday, July 21. It said the day’s theme will be “virtue.” It said it will honor two Medal of Honor recipients and the events will provide a chance to increase the ability of personnel to serve, lead and live honorably.

According to the military base, the day will begin at 10:15 a.m. with a Commemoration Ceremony at Victory Park to honor 2nd Lt. Samuel L. Parker and Pfc. Daniel R. Edwards, both of whom earned the Medal of Honor in July 1918 during World War I. It said Maj. Gen. D.A. Sims will speak at the ceremony and relate battlefield gallantry to today’s personnel.

In the afternoon, Ft. Riley said it will unveil new street signs in honor of Parker and Edwards at 4 p.m.

According to Ft. Riley, the Big Red One Year of Honor is a year-long observance of 37 service members that have earned the Medal of Honor while serving the division. By extension, it said the campaign will enhance esprit-de-corps, foster leader development and increase unit morale and cohesion through authentic examples of virtue, leadership and living a life of honor.

The Commemoration Ceremony will be livestreamed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BigRedOneYearOfHonor/posts/204841051646944" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

The Street Dedication Ceremony will be livestreamed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BigRedOneYearOfHonor/posts/202110768586639" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

By WIBW's Sarah MotterTOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - The Big Red One Year of Honor will commemorate two more Medal of Honor recipients from the 1st Infantry Division.Fort Riley says it and the 1st Infantry Division will host the next Big Red One Year of Honor event on Wednesday, July 21. It said the day’s theme will be “virtue.” It said it will honor two Medal of Honor recipients and the events will provide a chance to increase the ability of personnel to serve, lead and live honorably.According to the military base, the day will begin at 10:15 a.m. with a Commemoration Ceremony at Victory Park to honor 2nd Lt. Samuel L. Parker and Pfc. Daniel R. Edwards, both of whom earned the Medal of Honor in July 1918 during World War I. It said Maj. Gen. D.A. Sims will speak at the ceremony and relate battlefield gallantry to today’s personnel.In the afternoon, Ft. Riley said it will unveil new street signs in honor of Parker and Edwards at 4 p.m.According to Ft. Riley, the Big Red One Year of Honor is a year-long observance of 37 service members that have earned the Medal of Honor while serving the division. By extension, it said the campaign will enhance esprit-de-corps, foster leader development and increase unit morale and cohesion through authentic examples of virtue, leadership and living a life of honor.The Commemoration Ceremony will be livestreamed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BigRedOneYearOfHonor/posts/204841051646944" target="_blank">HERE</a>.The Street Dedication Ceremony will be livestreamed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BigRedOneYearOfHonor/posts/202110768586639" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

Big Red One Year of Honor to commemorate two more Medal of Honor recipients

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. - Construction of Junction City's new high school building has delayed the start of school by two weeks to August 25th, but although classes are delayed, the start of high school athletics will continue on time, but in alternate locations.

Junction City High School Athletic Director Matt Westerhaus said in an interview that initial practices will take place at the old high school building on Eisenhower Drive, to allow for construction to be safely completed.

In addition to practices taking place away from the new site, Westerhaus says that some of the initial contests of the year may be moved to alternate sites or delayed, including the&nbsp; first Blue Jay football game.

"We're making preparations to potentially delay some of our initial home events," he said. "One of those being our home football game on September 3rd. So, we have already made preparations to move that date with Topeka High, so that will be an away game and we'll play that on Thursday, September the 2nd."

The rescheduling means that Junction City will play its first three games of 2021 on the road. Week two, the Blue Jays will renew their rivalry with Manhattan at Bishop Stadium, and in week three Junction City will travel to Topeka to take on the Seaman Vikings for the final time as Centennial League foes.&nbsp;

The change also means that the following three weeks of the season will then be at home. As of now, Junction City's inaugural game at its new home will be set for Friday, September 24th against Washburn Rural.&nbsp;

"It's kind of nice that we have the flexibility to do that because we play Topeka High twice this year," said Westerhaus. "So, we can simply move the game week six to week one at their place, and week one to six at our place."

The revised Junction City High School football schedule is as follows:

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. - Construction of Junction City's new high school building has delayed the start of school by two weeks to August 25th, but although classes are delayed, the start of high school athletics will continue on time, but in alternate locations.Junction City High School Athletic Director Matt Westerhaus said in an interview that initial practices will take place at the old high school building on Eisenhower Drive, to allow for construction to be safely completed.In addition to practices taking place away from the new site, Westerhaus says that some of the initial contests of the year may be moved to alternate sites or delayed, including the&nbsp; first Blue Jay football game."We're making preparations to potentially delay some of our initial home events," he said. "One of those being our home football game on September 3rd. So, we have already made preparations to move that date with Topeka High, so that will be an away game and we'll play that on Thursday, September the 2nd."The rescheduling means that Junction City will play its first three games of 2021 on the road. Week two, the Blue Jays will renew their rivalry with Manhattan at Bishop Stadium, and in week three Junction City will travel to Topeka to take on the Seaman Vikings for the final time as Centennial League foes.&nbsp;The change also means that the following three weeks of the season will then be at home. As of now, Junction City's inaugural game at its new home will be set for Friday, September 24th against Washburn Rural.&nbsp;"It's kind of nice that we have the flexibility to do that because we play Topeka High twice this year," said Westerhaus. "So, we can simply move the game week six to week one at their place, and week one to six at our place."The revised Junction City High School football schedule is as follows:Week 1 - @ Topeka HighWeek 2 - @ ManhattanWeek 3 - @ Topeka SeamanWeek 4 - Home vs. Washburn RuralWeek 5 - Home vs. Topeka WestWeek 6 - Home vs. Topeka HighWeek 7 - @ EmporiaWeek 8 - Home vs. Highland ParkWeek 9 - TBD - Playoffs Round 1&nbsp;

JCHS postpones football home opener

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – Following approval of a phased opening plan by the City of Junction City, Geary County Schools USD 475 made the difficult decision on Friday to postpone the opening tours of the new Junction City High School.

The tours were originally scheduled for August 6 and 7, which included a VIP and Open House tour.

This postponement is due to multiple delays the district has faced in the construction of the new facility.

“Community members may recall a six-month delay in payment of Heavily Impacted Aid which resulted in a concurrent delay in special bond election from May to November of 2017,” said David Wild, chief operations officer for Geary County Schools USD 475. “After a successful bond campaign and during design development, the district experienced turbulence with a couple of key personnel. This brought SJCF Architecture’s design development to a crawl while the district worked through its internal challenges. Design delay proved to be the first obstacle to timely completion of the project.”

Following approval of design and construction documents from the Geary County Schools USD 475 Board of Education, the district experienced further delays, pushing the project approximately five months behind its timeline, according to Wild. However, a fall of 2021 opening remained hopeful in the minds of the district, architects, and constructors working the project.

The pandemic proved to be the next obstacle encountered by the construction partnership, impacting timely delivery of materials, and creating a shortage of workers. At the peak of construction, Hutton Construction had a maximum of 300 personnel on site, still 40 to 50 employees short.

Most recently, the district experienced further delays in June due to an approval of a graphics package and comprehensive furnishings.

Despite the cancellation, Geary County Schools USD 475 Chief Operations Officer David Wild said the ability to even open the school is remarkable. To thank for that, he said, is the hard work and success of the Hutton Construction team. The pristine levels of communication and integration efforts made by General Superintendent Cody Simon and Project Manager Curtis Calvert are entirely appreciated by the district.

“These two are unsung heroes of this massive undertaking,” Wild said. “There have been hundreds and thousands of decisions made to include the integration of well over 100 subcontractors and suppliers. Neither man ever spoke of the tireless hours and many sleepless nights.” 

In place of the tours, the district will instead hold a formal ribbon cutting in the fall. Junction City High School students will have their first day in the new facility on August 25

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626794643938.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – Following approval of a phased opening plan by the City of Junction City, Geary County Schools USD 475 made the difficult decision on Friday to postpone the opening tours of the new Junction City High School.The tours were originally scheduled for August 6 and 7, which included a VIP and Open House tour.This postponement is due to multiple delays the district has faced in the construction of the new facility.“Community members may recall a six-month delay in payment of Heavily Impacted Aid which resulted in a concurrent delay in special bond election from May to November of 2017,” said David Wild, chief operations officer for Geary County Schools USD 475. “After a successful bond campaign and during design development, the district experienced turbulence with a couple of key personnel. This brought SJCF Architecture’s design development to a crawl while the district worked through its internal challenges. Design delay proved to be the first obstacle to timely completion of the project.”Following approval of design and construction documents from the Geary County Schools USD 475 Board of Education, the district experienced further delays, pushing the project approximately five months behind its timeline, according to Wild. However, a fall of 2021 opening remained hopeful in the minds of the district, architects, and constructors working the project.The pandemic proved to be the next obstacle encountered by the construction partnership, impacting timely delivery of materials, and creating a shortage of workers. At the peak of construction, Hutton Construction had a maximum of 300 personnel on site, still 40 to 50 employees short.Most recently, the district experienced further delays in June due to an approval of a graphics package and comprehensive furnishings.Despite the cancellation, Geary County Schools USD 475 Chief Operations Officer David Wild said the ability to even open the school is remarkable. To thank for that, he said, is the hard work and success of the Hutton Construction team. The pristine levels of communication and integration efforts made by General Superintendent Cody Simon and Project Manager Curtis Calvert are entirely appreciated by the district.“These two are unsung heroes of this massive undertaking,” Wild said. “There have been hundreds and thousands of decisions made to include the integration of well over 100 subcontractors and suppliers. Neither man ever spoke of the tireless hours and many sleepless nights.” In place of the tours, the district will instead hold a formal ribbon cutting in the fall. Junction City High School students will have their first day in the new facility on August 25

Junction City High School postpones opening tours of new facility

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary in Manhattan.

Just after 11:30p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for burglary in the 300 block of Fremont Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 31-year-old male reported a 24-year-old suspect broke into his residence and stole a Play Station 4 Pro, a 65 inch Samsung television and cash. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $2,099.

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary in Manhattan.Just after 11:30p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for burglary in the 300 block of Fremont Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 31-year-old male reported a 24-year-old suspect broke into his residence and stole a Play Station 4 Pro, a 65 inch Samsung television and cash. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $2,099.

RCPD: Suspect took 65 inch TV, cash from home

Official says upcoming hires will support youth in several interest areas&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas State University has given the green light to three positions that one official says will directly benefit the state’s 4-H program by enhancing college and career readiness opportunities for youth.&nbsp;

Aliah Mestrovich Seay, a 4-H youth development specialist for community vitality, said each of the specialist positions lines up with content provided by academic programs at K-State, giving 4-H members an added boost as they prepare for college and career.&nbsp;

“We are always seeking to align 4-H programs with skills that are going to be needed as youth go on and pursue these types of interests – not just K-12 students, but even beyond that,” said Mestrovich Seay, who will lead the search committees.&nbsp;

She said the groups she heads up have been given an aggressive timeline to put the three positions in place. Those positions include:&nbsp;

All three positions focus on preparing youth for college and future careers in their related areas.&nbsp;

“As the community vitality specialist for 4-H youth development, my goal is to help communities find resources to have healthy and thriving communities, particularly through how young people and community members exercise their leadership and citizenship skills,” Mestrovich Seay said.&nbsp;

“So it’s always a pleasure to interact with specialists with certain content level expertise because community vitality can be used to support STEM, healthy living, agricultural sciences and volunteer development in very similar ways even though the content is different.”&nbsp;

Mestrovich Seay added that youth will benefit from the new hires because they will have more opportunities to build such skills as citizenship, leadership and communication.&nbsp;

Applications for the three positions are open through July 28, or until the position is filled. More information is available online on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/hcs/careers" target="_blank">Kansas State University careers page</a>, or by contacting Mestrovich Seay by email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aliah@ksu.edu" target="_blank">aliah@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;

Official says upcoming hires will support youth in several interest areas&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas State University has given the green light to three positions that one official says will directly benefit the state’s 4-H program by enhancing college and career readiness opportunities for youth.&nbsp;Aliah Mestrovich Seay, a 4-H youth development specialist for community vitality, said each of the specialist positions lines up with content provided by academic programs at K-State, giving 4-H members an added boost as they prepare for college and career.&nbsp;“We are always seeking to align 4-H programs with skills that are going to be needed as youth go on and pursue these types of interests – not just K-12 students, but even beyond that,” said Mestrovich Seay, who will lead the search committees.&nbsp;She said the groups she heads up have been given an aggressive timeline to put the three positions in place. Those positions include:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>STEM and natural resources specialist, which will be located in the state office in Manhattan. The position includes advising shooting sports, as well as STEM lessons in agriculture, education, architecture, engineering and arts and sciences. &nbsp;</li><li>Healthy living specialist, located in the western part of Kansas. The position includes work in establishing healthy food systems, rural community health and youth wellness programs. &nbsp;</li><li>Agricultural sciences specialist, located in the northeast region of Kansas. The position includes work in agricultural literacy as well as lessons in agriculture, engineering, education and arts and sciences.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>All three positions focus on preparing youth for college and future careers in their related areas.&nbsp;“As the community vitality specialist for 4-H youth development, my goal is to help communities find resources to have healthy and thriving communities, particularly through how young people and community members exercise their leadership and citizenship skills,” Mestrovich Seay said.&nbsp;“So it’s always a pleasure to interact with specialists with certain content level expertise because community vitality can be used to support STEM, healthy living, agricultural sciences and volunteer development in very similar ways even though the content is different.”&nbsp;Mestrovich Seay added that youth will benefit from the new hires because they will have more opportunities to build such skills as citizenship, leadership and communication.&nbsp;Applications for the three positions are open through July 28, or until the position is filled. More information is available online on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/hcs/careers" target="_blank">Kansas State University careers page</a>, or by contacting Mestrovich Seay by email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aliah@ksu.edu" target="_blank">aliah@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;

Kansas 4-H eyes boost to college, career opportunities 

Junction City Mayor Jeff Underhill and City Manager Allen Dinkel Monday to outline an idea that would establish a City transient guest tax and leave the County with a bed tax only for Grandview Plaza and Milford. Under this plan the convention and visitor's bureau would also come under Chamber of Commerce auspices once again, instead of being a separate organization.

"What we talked about was them dissolving their transient guest tax and us being able to implement our own in the city that we would be able to utilize and we would operate the CVB at that point. I personally am a fan of consolidation so we would put that back under the Chamber of Commerce where it was successful, said Underhill. He noted that the County would be able to do their own bed tax for Grandview Plaza and Milford, and free up some of their levied taxes on citizens. That money could be used for support of organizations such as the economic development commission and military affairs council. Any new TGT for Junction City would not apply to Grandview Plaza or Milford.

The current Geary County transient guest tax rate is 6%. The suggestion outlined Monday would put the Junction City transient guest tax rate in the 6-and-a-half to 8-and-a-half percent range. Dinkel added now with the vacancy in the CVB director position there is time to look at options. 

County Commissioners Trish Giordano and Keith Ascher were at first glance opposed to the new bed tax idea. "I definitely want to look at all the options but I am not in favor of that right at this moment. With the reorganization of the CVB we can all get on the same page and take care of the whole entire county, said Giordano. " Ascher noted that his fear is that if the percentage of transient guest tax is raised Geary County could lose out to other communities, and keeping it lower is most competitive. Dinkel disagreed noting that other cities in the area have a higher percentage but Ascher said he thought it would put Geary County at a disadvantage by raising it.

Junction City Mayor Jeff Underhill and City Manager Allen Dinkel Monday to outline an idea that would establish a City transient guest tax and leave the County with a bed tax only for Grandview Plaza and Milford. Under this plan the convention and visitor's bureau would also come under Chamber of Commerce auspices once again, instead of being a separate organization."What we talked about was them dissolving their transient guest tax and us being able to implement our own in the city that we would be able to utilize and we would operate the CVB at that point. I personally am a fan of consolidation so we would put that back under the Chamber of Commerce where it was successful, said Underhill. He noted that the County would be able to do their own bed tax for Grandview Plaza and Milford, and free up some of their levied taxes on citizens. That money could be used for support of organizations such as the economic development commission and military affairs council. Any new TGT for Junction City would not apply to Grandview Plaza or Milford.The current Geary County transient guest tax rate is 6%. The suggestion outlined Monday would put the Junction City transient guest tax rate in the 6-and-a-half to 8-and-a-half percent range. Dinkel added now with the vacancy in the CVB director position there is time to look at options. County Commissioners Trish Giordano and Keith Ascher were at first glance opposed to the new bed tax idea. "I definitely want to look at all the options but I am not in favor of that right at this moment. With the reorganization of the CVB we can all get on the same page and take care of the whole entire county, said Giordano. " Ascher noted that his fear is that if the percentage of transient guest tax is raised Geary County could lose out to other communities, and keeping it lower is most competitive. Dinkel disagreed noting that other cities in the area have a higher percentage but Ascher said he thought it would put Geary County at a disadvantage by raising it.No final action was taken Monday.

City bed tax idea goes to the County Commission

4-H Food Sale activities are a traditional highlight of opening day activities at the Geary County Free Fair.

Attendance was big at the fair Monday evening when the activities ranged from the 4-H Dairy/Goat/Sheep Show to all indoor 4-H exhibits in place.

The main parking lot at the 4-H Center was full of vehicles and there was a lot of overflow parking on the grass area just north of the center.

The 4-H Food Sale continues Tuesday all day. 4-H Bucket Calf Consultation Judging ( 5 p.m. ) and the 4-H Bucket Calf and Beef Show ( 7 p.m. ) are scheduled Tuesday evening.&nbsp;

4-H Food Sale activities are a traditional highlight of opening day activities at the Geary County Free Fair.Here some photos from Monday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626741855150.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626741869727.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626741884671.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Attendance was big at the fair Monday evening when the activities ranged from the 4-H Dairy/Goat/Sheep Show to all indoor 4-H exhibits in place.The main parking lot at the 4-H Center was full of vehicles and there was a lot of overflow parking on the grass area just north of the center.The 4-H Food Sale continues Tuesday all day. 4-H Bucket Calf Consultation Judging ( 5 p.m. ) and the 4-H Bucket Calf and Beef Show ( 7 p.m. ) are scheduled Tuesday evening.&nbsp;

4-H Food sale is a highlight for the opening day of the County Free Fair

After weeks of operating from the conference room at the Geary County Office Building the Convention &amp; Visitor's Bureau operations will return to the Montgomery Building at 222 West 6th Street. 

Trish Giordano, County Commission Chair, said after extensive testing of the air quality nothing of any significance was found at the West 6th Street location. "So we are going to have the CVB move back to the Montgomery Building. "

There is one employee at the present time and a search is under way for a new CVB director. The staff had moved out temporarily after complaining of nose, throat and mouth irritation. Testing was done for mold, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide plus potential chemicals from carpet stored in the building but no problems were found.

The CVB move back to the Montgomery Building could occur late this week.

After weeks of operating from the conference room at the Geary County Office Building the Convention &amp; Visitor's Bureau operations will return to the Montgomery Building at 222 West 6th Street. Trish Giordano, County Commission Chair, said after extensive testing of the air quality nothing of any significance was found at the West 6th Street location. "So we are going to have the CVB move back to the Montgomery Building. "There is one employee at the present time and a search is under way for a new CVB director. The staff had moved out temporarily after complaining of nose, throat and mouth irritation. Testing was done for mold, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide plus potential chemicals from carpet stored in the building but no problems were found.The CVB move back to the Montgomery Building could occur late this week.

County votes to return the CVB to the Montgomery Building

Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher Food insecurity, or the lack of consistent access to enough food, is not something that is top of my mind very often. It probably should be, but it just isn’t. I have enough food, actually more than enough, and given the frantic pace of my life I often neglect to give a second thought to those who are not blessed like I am. I also think many of us in rural America think it is a big city or urban problem. It is not. In fact, I think we would all be shocked to know how many of our neighbors are food insecure. Those of us who live in rural Kansas are proud people and often it is hard for us to ask for help. Your neighbors who may be food insecure are just like you. There is a certain stigma associated with not having enough food, especially in rural areas. Food insecurity happens for many reasons, and many are nothing to be ashamed of, but the reality of the situation is tough. A related aspect is something called a food desert, which also is something I had not really thought about before or the fact that many of us live in them. A food desert is an area that may lack places to buy good-quality or healthy, fresh food. We have seen many of our small, rural grocery stores disappear leaving those who struggle with transportation facing food insecurity simply because they cannot drive to a larger city to shop. I find all of this stunning. We live in the breadbasket of the United States, we grow a large part of the food for our population and yet we have hungry people in our midst. I have problems wrapping my head around it. But it all makes sense, food, especially healthy, fresh food is hard to come by in some of our towns. Couple that with the fact that eating healthy and staying away from packaged and premade food is expensive. Put it all together and we have a problem right here in our backyards. That is why we, the members of Kansas Farm Bureau, are the perfect people to help fight hunger in our communities. We did that last year, when we raised nearly $100,000 in the middle of the pandemic to help our neighbors with a campaign to End Hunger in Kansas. That money went to food banks and pantries across the state. Now we are rolling out Phase 2 and many counties will be partnering with their local Farm Bureau agents, continuing the effort to End Hunger. The Kansas Farm Bureau Foundation will be provide grants to assist county Farm Bureaus with projects to help their communities. Watch your local Farm Bureau for an announcement about how they’re planning to help and then jump in. We are incredibly blessed to live in the small communities most of us are part of, and we probably do not even know how much some of our neighbors are hurting. This is the perfect way to help. I do not know about fixing hunger worldwide, but I do know that if we each dig in, we can solve the problem right here at home. Together we can End Hunger in Kansas.

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

Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher Food insecurity, or the lack of consistent access to enough food, is not something that is top of my mind very often. It probably should be, but it just isn’t. I have enough food, actually more than enough, and given the frantic pace of my life I often neglect to give a second thought to those who are not blessed like I am. I also think many of us in rural America think it is a big city or urban problem. It is not. In fact, I think we would all be shocked to know how many of our neighbors are food insecure. Those of us who live in rural Kansas are proud people and often it is hard for us to ask for help. Your neighbors who may be food insecure are just like you. There is a certain stigma associated with not having enough food, especially in rural areas. Food insecurity happens for many reasons, and many are nothing to be ashamed of, but the reality of the situation is tough. A related aspect is something called a food desert, which also is something I had not really thought about before or the fact that many of us live in them. A food desert is an area that may lack places to buy good-quality or healthy, fresh food. We have seen many of our small, rural grocery stores disappear leaving those who struggle with transportation facing food insecurity simply because they cannot drive to a larger city to shop. I find all of this stunning. We live in the breadbasket of the United States, we grow a large part of the food for our population and yet we have hungry people in our midst. I have problems wrapping my head around it. But it all makes sense, food, especially healthy, fresh food is hard to come by in some of our towns. Couple that with the fact that eating healthy and staying away from packaged and premade food is expensive. Put it all together and we have a problem right here in our backyards. That is why we, the members of Kansas Farm Bureau, are the perfect people to help fight hunger in our communities. We did that last year, when we raised nearly $100,000 in the middle of the pandemic to help our neighbors with a campaign to End Hunger in Kansas. That money went to food banks and pantries across the state. Now we are rolling out Phase 2 and many counties will be partnering with their local Farm Bureau agents, continuing the effort to End Hunger. The Kansas Farm Bureau Foundation will be provide grants to assist county Farm Bureaus with projects to help their communities. Watch your local Farm Bureau for an announcement about how they’re planning to help and then jump in. We are incredibly blessed to live in the small communities most of us are part of, and we probably do not even know how much some of our neighbors are hurting. This is the perfect way to help. I do not know about fixing hunger worldwide, but I do know that if we each dig in, we can solve the problem right here at home. Together we can End Hunger in Kansas."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Ending Hunger at Home

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged weekend altercation in Manhattan.

Just after 5:30p.m. Saturday, police filed a report for attempted aggravated battery, domestic battery and criminal threat in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 21-year-old, and 26-year-old man and a 32-year-old man&nbsp; reported a 32-year-old suspect shoved the 21-year-old, threw a closed beer can at the 26-year-old striking him and threatened the same victim with a knife. 

A 26-year-old suspect identified as a suspect. Police also arrested Sergio Antonio Estrada Moreno, 32, of Manhattan on requested charges of attempted aggravated battery, domestic battery and criminal threat. Moreno is confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $10,000.

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged weekend altercation in Manhattan.Just after 5:30p.m. Saturday, police filed a report for attempted aggravated battery, domestic battery and criminal threat in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 21-year-old, and 26-year-old man and a 32-year-old man&nbsp; reported a 32-year-old suspect shoved the 21-year-old, threw a closed beer can at the 26-year-old striking him and threatened the same victim with a knife. A 26-year-old suspect identified as a suspect. Police also arrested Sergio Antonio Estrada Moreno, 32, of Manhattan on requested charges of attempted aggravated battery, domestic battery and criminal threat. Moreno is confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $10,000.

Suspect arrested after weekend altercation in Manhattan

Three Junction City Pilot Club members attended the Pilot International Convention in Atlanta. This was the 100th year anniversary where they Honored the Past, Envisioning the Future.

One hundred years of friendship and service were celebrated.

Three Junction City Pilot Club members attended the Pilot International Convention in Atlanta. This was the 100th year anniversary where they Honored the Past, Envisioning the Future.One hundred years of friendship and service were celebrated.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626706557539.jpeg" alt="( L-R ) Pam Wallace, Ina Kane and Sue Penn" />
 <figcaption>( L-R ) Pam Wallace, Ina Kane and Sue Penn</figcaption>
 </figure>

Pilot Club members attend the Pilot International Convention

(Topeka, Kan.)&nbsp;- &nbsp;The Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR) has appointed 25 members to the committee that will assist and advise the Board in the search for the next president of Kansas State University (KSU). The search committee includes representation from university students, faculty, staff, alumni and the Manhattan community.

Last month the Board named Carl Ice as chair of the search committee. Ice is a K-State alumnus and retired CEO of BNSF Railway, and was recently appointed to the Board of Regents by Gov. Laura Kelly.

Mark Hutton is vice chair of the committee, He founded Hutton Construction in 1992. Other committee members include retired Air Force Lt. Colonel Glenn Campbell, K-State General Counsel Shari Crittendon, KSU Student Michael Dowd, President and CEO for the Board of Regents Blake Flanders, Distinguished Professor of Music Wayne Goins, English Professor Tanya Gonzalez, Marketing Professor Kevin Gwinner, CEO / general counsel for Kansas Farm Bureau Terry Holdren, KSU student Maria Izquierdo, CEO of PAI, Nabeeha Kazi Hutchins, Chairman of the Board of Meredith Corporation Steve Lacy, former K-State and pro football player and a partner at Fulcrum Global Capital Kevin Lockett, Chairman of Steel and Pipe Supply Dennis Mullin, President of the University Support Staff Senate Mary Oborny, Distinguished Professor of Kinesiology and Anatomy &amp; Physiology David C. Poole, Manhattan City Commissioner Usha Reddi, Management Trainee on the College Recruiting Team at BNSF Railway Darrell Reese Jr., University Distinguished Professor Charles Rice, former U.S. Senator Pat Roberts, KSU Vice President for Research David Rosowsky, the chief academic and administrative officer of K-State Polytechnic Dr. Alysia Starkey, KSU Athletic Director Gene Taylor, Vice Chair of the KSU Foundation Board of Directors Mary Vanier and an Associate Professor in the Carl and Melinda Helwig Department of Agricultural &amp; Biological Engineers Dr. Lisa Wilken.

(Topeka, Kan.)&nbsp;- &nbsp;The Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR) has appointed 25 members to the committee that will assist and advise the Board in the search for the next president of Kansas State University (KSU). The search committee includes representation from university students, faculty, staff, alumni and the Manhattan community.Last month the Board named Carl Ice as chair of the search committee. Ice is a K-State alumnus and retired CEO of BNSF Railway, and was recently appointed to the Board of Regents by Gov. Laura Kelly.Mark Hutton is vice chair of the committee, He founded Hutton Construction in 1992. Other committee members include retired Air Force Lt. Colonel Glenn Campbell, K-State General Counsel Shari Crittendon, KSU Student Michael Dowd, President and CEO for the Board of Regents Blake Flanders, Distinguished Professor of Music Wayne Goins, English Professor Tanya Gonzalez, Marketing Professor Kevin Gwinner, CEO / general counsel for Kansas Farm Bureau Terry Holdren, KSU student Maria Izquierdo, CEO of PAI, Nabeeha Kazi Hutchins, Chairman of the Board of Meredith Corporation Steve Lacy, former K-State and pro football player and a partner at Fulcrum Global Capital Kevin Lockett, Chairman of Steel and Pipe Supply Dennis Mullin, President of the University Support Staff Senate Mary Oborny, Distinguished Professor of Kinesiology and Anatomy &amp; Physiology David C. Poole, Manhattan City Commissioner Usha Reddi, Management Trainee on the College Recruiting Team at BNSF Railway Darrell Reese Jr., University Distinguished Professor Charles Rice, former U.S. Senator Pat Roberts, KSU Vice President for Research David Rosowsky, the chief academic and administrative officer of K-State Polytechnic Dr. Alysia Starkey, KSU Athletic Director Gene Taylor, Vice Chair of the KSU Foundation Board of Directors Mary Vanier and an Associate Professor in the Carl and Melinda Helwig Department of Agricultural &amp; Biological Engineers Dr. Lisa Wilken.

Board of Regents appoints search committee for next KSU President

Geary County 4-H Fair activities are under way at the fairgrounds on the west side of Junction City. Youth participated in the Pedal Pull Sunday evening.

Extension Agent Deb Andres said participants, ages 7-13, competed in the event where weights are put on a trailer behind a pedal tractor. "And the kids have to pedal as far as they can as the weights get closer and closer to the tractor, causing it to be harder and harder to motivate."

The fair runs this week Monday through Thursday.

Geary County 4-H Fair activities are under way at the fairgrounds on the west side of Junction City. Youth participated in the Pedal Pull Sunday evening.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626697158612.jpeg" alt="Five year old Clara Collins won her age division in the Pedal Pull" />
 <figcaption>Five year old Clara Collins won her age division in the Pedal Pull</figcaption>
 </figure>Extension Agent Deb Andres said participants, ages 7-13, competed in the event where weights are put on a trailer behind a pedal tractor. "And the kids have to pedal as far as they can as the weights get closer and closer to the tractor, causing it to be harder and harder to motivate."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626697926071.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626697940489.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626697955377.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The fair runs this week Monday through Thursday.

Pedal Pull attracts Geary County youth

MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a report of shots fired Sunday morning in Manhattan.

Just after 2a.m. Sunday, police&nbsp;filed a report for criminal discharge of a firearm near the intersection of N. 12th Street and Fremont Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

It was reported an unknown suspect fired a weapon into the air from a vehicle. 

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 report of shots fired Sunday morning in Manhattan.Just after 2a.m. Sunday, police&nbsp;filed a report for criminal discharge of a firearm near the intersection of N. 12th Street and Fremont Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.It was reported an unknown suspect fired a weapon into the air from a vehicle. 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.

Police investigate shots fired early Sunday in Manhattan 

Geary County Commissioners are scheduled to meet with Junction City Mayor Jeff Underhill and City Manager Allen Dinkel Monday at 10:15 a.m. at the County Office Building. The topic will be a discussion about transient guest tax.

The Geary County Convention &amp; Visitor's Bureau operations are supported by a transient guest tax paid by users of lodging facilities. In recent months there has been some discussion by city officials about the possibility of also implementing their own bed tax, but no final action has been taken.&nbsp;

CVB Advisory Committee members have been critical of the idea of a city transient guest tax. One advantage cited for only having the current county transient guest tax is that it's lower than other area cities and counties, meaning it could be less expensive to stay in a lodging facility in Geary County than in other nearby counties.&nbsp;

City officials have discussed in the past perhaps having their own&nbsp; one, two or three percent tax, and how the funds could be used to promote tourism in a different way.

Geary County Commissioners are scheduled to meet with Junction City Mayor Jeff Underhill and City Manager Allen Dinkel Monday at 10:15 a.m. at the County Office Building. The topic will be a discussion about transient guest tax.The Geary County Convention &amp; Visitor's Bureau operations are supported by a transient guest tax paid by users of lodging facilities. In recent months there has been some discussion by city officials about the possibility of also implementing their own bed tax, but no final action has been taken.&nbsp;CVB Advisory Committee members have been critical of the idea of a city transient guest tax. One advantage cited for only having the current county transient guest tax is that it's lower than other area cities and counties, meaning it could be less expensive to stay in a lodging facility in Geary County than in other nearby counties.&nbsp;City officials have discussed in the past perhaps having their own&nbsp; one, two or three percent tax, and how the funds could be used to promote tourism in a different way.

Transient guest tax is on the county commission agenda

By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A group looking at Kansas graduation requirements is still relatively early in the process.

"Their goal is to have recommendations developed by the end of next spring, basically to take proposals to the State Board of Education next summer," said Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards.

The group will have to weigh several things when shaping requirement recommendations.

"What should every student who graduates have and know?", Tallman asked. "What's kind of the minimum that we want every student to have, balanced with how much flexibility or how much variation should be allowed based on different students interests? I think the dilemma is, both of those are important."

It's also hard because if you tailor graduation requirements to specific non college preparatory credentials, then if the student decides they want to go on to college, it may be difficult for them to do so, or conversely, if they thought they were interested in college, then they might have to take additional time to get a skills-based credential that they could have had straight out of high school if they had made different earlier choices.

"How can we make education seem more relevant?" Tallman asked. "How can we make it seem more personalized? How do we ensure that students have the skills that employers and parents and others are saying they want, that in many cases aren't related to academics?"

Agreement about what goals are, how they are measured and who is accountable will be the policy questions that the group hopes to answer as they make their recommendations.

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By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A group looking at Kansas graduation requirements is still relatively early in the process."Their goal is to have recommendations developed by the end of next spring, basically to take proposals to the State Board of Education next summer," said Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards.The group will have to weigh several things when shaping requirement recommendations."What should every student who graduates have and know?", Tallman asked. "What's kind of the minimum that we want every student to have, balanced with how much flexibility or how much variation should be allowed based on different students interests? I think the dilemma is, both of those are important."It's also hard because if you tailor graduation requirements to specific non college preparatory credentials, then if the student decides they want to go on to college, it may be difficult for them to do so, or conversely, if they thought they were interested in college, then they might have to take additional time to get a skills-based credential that they could have had straight out of high school if they had made different earlier choices."How can we make education seem more relevant?" Tallman asked. "How can we make it seem more personalized? How do we ensure that students have the skills that employers and parents and others are saying they want, that in many cases aren't related to academics?"Agreement about what goals are, how they are measured and who is accountable will be the policy questions that the group hopes to answer as they make their recommendations.