Sherri Childs, Geary County Treasurer, has announced that the 2024 tax statements will go out November 11th. Taxpayers that have their mortgage company escrow their tax will be sent a ‘copy’ of the bill for informational purposes.

The 1st half taxes are due December 20th, 2024. Taxpayers are encouraged to avoid waiting in line by mailing their taxes. If mailing your payment, they should be postmarked no later than the 20th. Anyone wishing to receive a receipt will need to indicate this by marking the appropriate box on the payment stub.

Once you receive your bill and you have questions regarding the assessment of the property, you can call the Appraiser’s office at 785 238 4407. The Treasurer’s office is responsible for the mailing and collection of the statements but, does not assess properties for valuation purposes.

Real Estate taxes may be paid in full or half by December 20th, 2024. Second half taxes are due by May 10, 2025. Postmark accepted on current payments.

Statutorily, at least half of the personal property tax is due December 20, 2024, if you fail to pay the first half, the full amount plus interest becomes due. Once you pay the first half, the 2nd half is due by May 10, 2025 the same as real estate. No motor vehicle transactions can be processed for persons having delinquent personal property taxes.

Participants in the Neighborhood RevitalizationPprogram must have their taxes paid in full before a rebate check will be issued.

If a taxpayer does not receive a tax bill, please call 238-8109. It is the responsibility of the taxpayer to ensure their taxes are paid. If you do not receive a tax bill or you have multiple properties please bring pertinent information that enables us to locate the property you are paying on. Owners can also pay online by going to the Kansas County Treasurers website at http://www.kansastreasurers.org/ or they can use the drop box located at the entrance of the south door to the building at 200 E 8th Street.

Taxpayers can use the following methods to pay for their taxes: Cash, Check, Money Order and Credit and Debit cards (those choosing to use this option are subject to a convenience fee charged by the company providing the service). Taxpayers will be given the opportunity to make monthly payments for future tax years. Interested persons should contact the office and ask for the “Payment Program.” This program helps ease the burden of the tax by spreading it over a period of months as opposed to either a half or full payment due late in December.

The office of the County Treasurer will be closed the following days:

Thursday, November 28th &amp; Friday, November 29th for Thanksgiving

Tuesday, December 24th &amp; Wednesday, December 25th for Christmas

Vehicle owners are reminded that they have until December 31st, 2024 to renew auto tags U,X,Y,Z. Large trucks (12,000+) and trailers will expire December 31st, but will be allowed a grace period until the last day of February, 2025. Large truck and trailer license plate renewals go on sale after January 1st 2025.

Sherri Childs, Geary County Treasurer, has announced that the 2024 tax statements will go out November 11th. Taxpayers that have their mortgage company escrow their tax will be sent a ‘copy’ of the bill for informational purposes.The 1st half taxes are due December 20th, 2024. Taxpayers are encouraged to avoid waiting in line by mailing their taxes. If mailing your payment, they should be postmarked no later than the 20th. Anyone wishing to receive a receipt will need to indicate this by marking the appropriate box on the payment stub.Once you receive your bill and you have questions regarding the assessment of the property, you can call the Appraiser’s office at 785 238 4407. The Treasurer’s office is responsible for the mailing and collection of the statements but, does not assess properties for valuation purposes.Real Estate taxes may be paid in full or half by December 20th, 2024. Second half taxes are due by May 10, 2025. Postmark accepted on current payments.Statutorily, at least half of the personal property tax is due December 20, 2024, if you fail to pay the first half, the full amount plus interest becomes due. Once you pay the first half, the 2nd half is due by May 10, 2025 the same as real estate. No motor vehicle transactions can be processed for persons having delinquent personal property taxes.Participants in the Neighborhood RevitalizationPprogram must have their taxes paid in full before a rebate check will be issued.If a taxpayer does not receive a tax bill, please call 238-8109. It is the responsibility of the taxpayer to ensure their taxes are paid. If you do not receive a tax bill or you have multiple properties please bring pertinent information that enables us to locate the property you are paying on. Owners can also pay online by going to the Kansas County Treasurers website at http://www.kansastreasurers.org/ or they can use the drop box located at the entrance of the south door to the building at 200 E 8th Street.Taxpayers can use the following methods to pay for their taxes: Cash, Check, Money Order and Credit and Debit cards (those choosing to use this option are subject to a convenience fee charged by the company providing the service). Taxpayers will be given the opportunity to make monthly payments for future tax years. Interested persons should contact the office and ask for the “Payment Program.” This program helps ease the burden of the tax by spreading it over a period of months as opposed to either a half or full payment due late in December.The office of the County Treasurer will be closed the following days:Monday, November 11th Veteran’s DayThursday, November 28th &amp; Friday, November 29th for ThanksgivingTuesday, December 24th &amp; Wednesday, December 25th for ChristmasVehicle owners are reminded that they have until December 31st, 2024 to renew auto tags U,X,Y,Z. Large trucks (12,000+) and trailers will expire December 31st, but will be allowed a grace period until the last day of February, 2025. Large truck and trailer license plate renewals go on sale after January 1st 2025.

Treasurer releases tax payment information 

TOPEKA –&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced Wednesday that she granted clemency to seven individuals by commuting the sentences of two incarcerated individuals and granting pardons to five individuals, all of whom show strong signs of rehabilitation, according to a statement from the governor's office.

The decision to grant the commutations and pardons was made following independent reviews by the Prison Review Board, the Kansas Department of Administration, and the Governor’s legal team.

“Granting commutations and pardons is not something I take lightly,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “By vetting numerous applications through a careful and thorough process, it was determined that these individuals have demonstrated their commitment to making amends and positively contributing to society. In cases where a disproportionally harsh sentence is imposed or a miscarriage of justice exists, commutation can be a tool to ensure reasonable action and a fairer sentence. In extraordinary cases where the criminal justice system failed to account for mitigating factors surrounding an individual’s alleged crime throughout the legal process, including sentencing, commutations can give a second chance to individuals experiencing incomprehensible circumstances at the time of their offense.”

Governor Kelly took into consideration numerous factors to determine if the commutations and pardons were warranted, including but not limited to: the nature of the offense, harsh sentences, impact of the crime on victims or survivors, demonstration of rehabilitation, criminal history, absence of disciplinary issues in prison, positive achievements and growth while incarcerated, and the ability to contribute to society following release.

Article 1, Section 7 of the Kansas Constitution and K.S.A. § 22-3701 grants the Governor’s authority to grant clemency. Below is list of individuals receiving commutations and pardons:

Review of clemency applications by the Governor is ongoing, and there is no set timeline for review. By law, clemency applications in Kansas must be submitted to the Prisoner Review Board and notice of an individual’s application for clemency must be published in the county newspaper where the crime was committed. The Board reviews all applications before forwarding them for further review. Additional information about the process can be found at the Board’s website:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.doc.ks.gov%252Fprb%26data=05%257C02%257CAna.Nixon%2540ks.gov%257C54a18c945bc94c7cef9908dcccec3705%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C638610562106760595%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=TVFfLmVj0zBjEC2hlG41qZasLpFnoRvUlC0EsfsqVKM%253D%26reserved=0/1/01010193039881ea-45df8950-42c0-4dec-b909-0a69dd90e820-000000/EQD3pxK56IRd9nkMPcKCzxcRt8HakRbBbdI_y-W9EXs=378">https://www.doc.ks.gov/prb</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730986375858.png" alt="Holle was serving time after convictions for Murder in the 2nd Degree,&nbsp;Aggravated abandonment of a child and abuse of a child, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Holle was serving time after convictions for Murder in the 2nd Degree,&nbsp;Aggravated abandonment of a child and abuse of a child, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA –&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced Wednesday that she granted clemency to seven individuals by commuting the sentences of two incarcerated individuals and granting pardons to five individuals, all of whom show strong signs of rehabilitation, according to a statement from the governor's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730986943406.png" alt="Durham was serving time for possession with intent to distribute marijuana, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Durham was serving time for possession with intent to distribute marijuana, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>The decision to grant the commutations and pardons was made following independent reviews by the Prison Review Board, the Kansas Department of Administration, and the Governor’s legal team.“Granting commutations and pardons is not something I take lightly,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “By vetting numerous applications through a careful and thorough process, it was determined that these individuals have demonstrated their commitment to making amends and positively contributing to society. In cases where a disproportionally harsh sentence is imposed or a miscarriage of justice exists, commutation can be a tool to ensure reasonable action and a fairer sentence. In extraordinary cases where the criminal justice system failed to account for mitigating factors surrounding an individual’s alleged crime throughout the legal process, including sentencing, commutations can give a second chance to individuals experiencing incomprehensible circumstances at the time of their offense.”Governor Kelly took into consideration numerous factors to determine if the commutations and pardons were warranted, including but not limited to: the nature of the offense, harsh sentences, impact of the crime on victims or survivors, demonstration of rehabilitation, criminal history, absence of disciplinary issues in prison, positive achievements and growth while incarcerated, and the ability to contribute to society following release.Article 1, Section 7 of the Kansas Constitution and K.S.A. § 22-3701 grants the Governor’s authority to grant clemency. Below is list of individuals receiving commutations and pardons:Jose Arellano,&nbsp;pardonDeshaun Durham,&nbsp;commutationStephen Gontz,&nbsp;pardonJeffrey Gronewaller,&nbsp;pardonLauren Holle, commutation &nbsp;James Valentine,&nbsp;pardonScottie Way, pardonReview of clemency applications by the Governor is ongoing, and there is no set timeline for review. By law, clemency applications in Kansas must be submitted to the Prisoner Review Board and notice of an individual’s application for clemency must be published in the county newspaper where the crime was committed. The Board reviews all applications before forwarding them for further review. Additional information about the process can be found at the Board’s website:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.doc.ks.gov%252Fprb%26data=05%257C02%257CAna.Nixon%2540ks.gov%257C54a18c945bc94c7cef9908dcccec3705%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C638610562106760595%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=TVFfLmVj0zBjEC2hlG41qZasLpFnoRvUlC0EsfsqVKM%253D%26reserved=0/1/01010193039881ea-45df8950-42c0-4dec-b909-0a69dd90e820-000000/EQD3pxK56IRd9nkMPcKCzxcRt8HakRbBbdI_y-W9EXs=378">https://www.doc.ks.gov/prb</a>

Gov. commutes sentence of Manhattan man in prison on drug charge

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/11/04/advocates-of-imperiled-lesser-prairie-chicken-say-market-incentives-key-to-expanding-habitat/">Kansas Reflector</a>

Grassland bird listed as threatened in Kansas, endangered on southern Great Plains

TOPEKA — Entrepreneur and conservationist Wayne Walker says the business of saving the lesser prairie chicken in Kansas required wider commitment to paying market rates to landowners dedicated to improving grassland habitat for the vulnerable birds.

He said companies involved in energy production within regions favored by the prairie chicken often had good intentions in terms of addressing the need for biological diversity and addressing climate change concerns. But, he said, too many balked at paying the true cost of a landowner setting aside large tracts for benefit of the colorful, reclusive prairie chicken.

Walker, owner of Common Ground Capital and CEO of LPC Conservation, said on Kansas Reflector’s podcast that programs designed to aid the lesser prairie chicken tended to fall short because they didn’t pay farmers or ranchers enough to justify multigenerational shifts in land use.

“You can’t keep asking the ranchers to be good conservationists for free. That’s essentially what we’ve done to date&nbsp;and … is why we have lost so much prairie and this bird’s in trouble,” Walker said.

“Our financial system is designed to make a profit&nbsp;and conservation historically has been kept out of that model,” he said. “Until a rancher can make a profit conserving prairie because of the prairie chicken or some other ecosystem service —&nbsp;just like he can make money selling his wind rights or his solar rights&nbsp;or his mineral rights or his development rights —&nbsp;it’s not going to turn around.”

In 2023, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service controversially<a href="https://www.fws.gov/press-release/2022-11/lesser-prairie-chicken-listed-under-endangered-species-act" target="_blank">&nbsp;listed two distinct population segments of the lesser prairie chicken under the Endangered Species Act due to</a>&nbsp;habitat loss and fragmentation of grassland areas.

In the northern region, including western Kansas, southeastern Colorado, western Oklahoma and the northeast Texas panhandle, the lesser prairie-chicken was listed as threatened. The southern range of the lesser prairie-chicken in eastern New Mexico and the southwest Texas panhandle was listed as endangered due to the threat of extinction.

The decision of federal regulators enraged members of the Kansas congressional delegation who denounced the listing as an overreach damaging to the state’s agriculture and energy sectors.

U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann, a Republican serving the 1st District that includes much of the bird’s habitat in Kansas, said the listing amounted to a “proxy war on American agriculture and energy sectors that are vital to our economy.”

He said the federal government should get out of the way of farmers, ranchers and landowners, who he described as the “original conservationists.”

Years of brawling among energy companies, environmentalists, elected officials and federal regulators led to the listing and fueled the inevitable flurry of lawsuits.

Mike Smith, who works with LPC Conservation projects in five states, said the population of lesser prairie chicken had dropped to perhaps 25,000. In certain years, due to good rainfall, there might be a temporary surge in the population. Drought has the opposite impact on the birds.

The long-term spiral, despite a hodgepodge of voluntary programs and initiatives, justified intervention with the federal Endangered Species Act, Smith said.

He said mandates from the federal government could prompt greater environmental awareness to deterioration of bird habitat and raise the profile of approaches anchored to business principles.

“The Endangered Species Act provides a cudgel, and, you know, keeps everybody honest, but the outsourcing of conservation work to the states and then having state rangers or state wildlife managers in the land business has not worked,” Smith said. “They don’t know how to cobble together the last of the best properties&nbsp;in order to make … these easements, which is what Wayne (Walker) has done in his conservation banking business.”

Walker said collaboration could work if there was sufficient financial incentive for property owners to redirect land resources in a way that also benefitted the bird.

“The&nbsp;old conservation models&nbsp;have done some good things, but overall we’re losing, right?” Walker said. “It just became clear to me … we had to bring some business acumen to it.”

Common Ground Capital works to identify landowners with property that possessed ecological and biological features that could be restored and preserved through a system of conservation banking. Property owners enter into long term protective land easements that serve interests of prairie chickens in exchange for a prescribed revenue stream. It would be ideal to build strongholds for the kesser prairie chicken with 25,000 to 50,000 acres each, Walker said.

When the varied interests come together, companies with a large imprint on the environment — energy companies, for example — purchase conservation credits to position themselves as more clean and green. Wind and solar industries have taken to conservation banking more than oil and gas interests.

“We approach it like a developer would approach building a housing development. You know, location, location.&nbsp;Where are the birds? Where are there ranchers there that are willing to talk to us about this arrangement. And then, of course, with the Fish and Wildlife Service, there are standards we have to meet,” Walker said.

Listing of the bird as threatened and endangered ought to build momentum for conservation banking. Common Ground Capital, and companies like it, would profit by bringing the diverse interests together.

“I really don’t want to be apologizing for that. I mean, people have&nbsp;accused me&nbsp;of trying to get rich off the prairie chicken,” Walker said. “Look, if it’s a get-rich-quick scheme, it is the worst one in history&nbsp;because we do this for 12 years, and we still aren’t quite in the black yet.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675290627669.png" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/11/04/advocates-of-imperiled-lesser-prairie-chicken-say-market-incentives-key-to-expanding-habitat/">Kansas Reflector</a><h2>Grassland bird listed as threatened in Kansas, endangered on southern Great Plains</h2>TOPEKA — Entrepreneur and conservationist Wayne Walker says the business of saving the lesser prairie chicken in Kansas required wider commitment to paying market rates to landowners dedicated to improving grassland habitat for the vulnerable birds.He said companies involved in energy production within regions favored by the prairie chicken often had good intentions in terms of addressing the need for biological diversity and addressing climate change concerns. But, he said, too many balked at paying the true cost of a landowner setting aside large tracts for benefit of the colorful, reclusive prairie chicken.Walker, owner of Common Ground Capital and CEO of LPC Conservation, said on Kansas Reflector’s podcast that programs designed to aid the lesser prairie chicken tended to fall short because they didn’t pay farmers or ranchers enough to justify multigenerational shifts in land use.“You can’t keep asking the ranchers to be good conservationists for free. That’s essentially what we’ve done to date&nbsp;and … is why we have lost so much prairie and this bird’s in trouble,” Walker said.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1948272083&color=ff5500"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/kansas-reflector-podcast" title="Reflector Podcast" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Reflector Podcast</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/kansas-reflector-podcast/2024-11-04-podcast" title="Open-market forces could shape a better future for the lesser prairie chicken" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Open-market forces could shape a better future for the lesser prairie chicken</a></div></div>“Our financial system is designed to make a profit&nbsp;and conservation historically has been kept out of that model,” he said. “Until a rancher can make a profit conserving prairie because of the prairie chicken or some other ecosystem service —&nbsp;just like he can make money selling his wind rights or his solar rights&nbsp;or his mineral rights or his development rights —&nbsp;it’s not going to turn around.”In 2023, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service controversially<a href="https://www.fws.gov/press-release/2022-11/lesser-prairie-chicken-listed-under-endangered-species-act" target="_blank">&nbsp;listed two distinct population segments of the lesser prairie chicken under the Endangered Species Act due to</a>&nbsp;habitat loss and fragmentation of grassland areas.In the northern region, including western Kansas, southeastern Colorado, western Oklahoma and the northeast Texas panhandle, the lesser prairie-chicken was listed as threatened. The southern range of the lesser prairie-chicken in eastern New Mexico and the southwest Texas panhandle was listed as endangered due to the threat of extinction.The decision of federal regulators enraged members of the Kansas congressional delegation who denounced the listing as an overreach damaging to the state’s agriculture and energy sectors.U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann, a Republican serving the 1st District that includes much of the bird’s habitat in Kansas, said the listing amounted to a “proxy war on American agriculture and energy sectors that are vital to our economy.”He said the federal government should get out of the way of farmers, ranchers and landowners, who he described as the “original conservationists.”<h2>More than a cudgel</h2>Years of brawling among energy companies, environmentalists, elected officials and federal regulators led to the listing and fueled the inevitable flurry of lawsuits.Mike Smith, who works with LPC Conservation projects in five states, said the population of lesser prairie chicken had dropped to perhaps 25,000. In certain years, due to good rainfall, there might be a temporary surge in the population. Drought has the opposite impact on the birds.The long-term spiral, despite a hodgepodge of voluntary programs and initiatives, justified intervention with the federal Endangered Species Act, Smith said.He said mandates from the federal government could prompt greater environmental awareness to deterioration of bird habitat and raise the profile of approaches anchored to business principles.“The Endangered Species Act provides a cudgel, and, you know, keeps everybody honest, but the outsourcing of conservation work to the states and then having state rangers or state wildlife managers in the land business has not worked,” Smith said. “They don’t know how to cobble together the last of the best properties&nbsp;in order to make … these easements, which is what Wayne (Walker) has done in his conservation banking business.”Walker said collaboration could work if there was sufficient financial incentive for property owners to redirect land resources in a way that also benefitted the bird.“The&nbsp;old conservation models&nbsp;have done some good things, but overall we’re losing, right?” Walker said. “It just became clear to me … we had to bring some business acumen to it.”<h2>It’s a business</h2>Common Ground Capital works to identify landowners with property that possessed ecological and biological features that could be restored and preserved through a system of conservation banking. Property owners enter into long term protective land easements that serve interests of prairie chickens in exchange for a prescribed revenue stream. It would be ideal to build strongholds for the kesser prairie chicken with 25,000 to 50,000 acres each, Walker said.When the varied interests come together, companies with a large imprint on the environment — energy companies, for example — purchase conservation credits to position themselves as more clean and green. Wind and solar industries have taken to conservation banking more than oil and gas interests.“We approach it like a developer would approach building a housing development. You know, location, location.&nbsp;Where are the birds? Where are there ranchers there that are willing to talk to us about this arrangement. And then, of course, with the Fish and Wildlife Service, there are standards we have to meet,” Walker said.Listing of the bird as threatened and endangered ought to build momentum for conservation banking. Common Ground Capital, and companies like it, would profit by bringing the diverse interests together.“I really don’t want to be apologizing for that. I mean, people have&nbsp;accused me&nbsp;of trying to get rich off the prairie chicken,” Walker said. “Look, if it’s a get-rich-quick scheme, it is the worst one in history&nbsp;because we do this for 12 years, and we still aren’t quite in the black yet.”

Advocates of imperiled lesser prairie chicken say market incentives key to expanding habitat

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Wednesday in Riley County.

A 2009 Honda Accord driven by Javier Rascon Ruiz, 30, of Manhattan, was eastbound in the 2200 Block of Fort Riley Boulevard, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The car suddenly veered left crossing traffic and struck a wall.&nbsp; EMS transported Ruiz&nbsp; to Ascension Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Wednesday in Riley County.A 2009 Honda Accord driven by Javier Rascon Ruiz, 30, of Manhattan, was eastbound in the 2200 Block of Fort Riley Boulevard, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The car suddenly veered left crossing traffic and struck a wall.&nbsp; EMS transported Ruiz&nbsp; to Ascension Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

Manhattan man injured after car strikes a wall

&nbsp; Sheridan Elementary School donated 1,038 pounds of food to the Food Pantry for local residents facing food insecurity.

&nbsp; Sheridan Elementary School donated 1,038 pounds of food to the Food Pantry for local residents facing food insecurity.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730941711257.jpeg" alt="( Photo - USD 475 )" />
 <figcaption>( Photo - USD 475 )</figcaption>
 </figure>

School effort provides help for the hungry

The Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce will host a ribbon cutting from noon to 1:00 p.m. Thursday for the newly remodeled Central National Bank outlet at Walmart 521 Chestnut. There will be remarks at 12:30.

The Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce will host a ribbon cutting from noon to 1:00 p.m. Thursday for the newly remodeled Central National Bank outlet at Walmart 521 Chestnut. There will be remarks at 12:30.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730941240103.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Ribbon cutting for Central National Bank outlet

Hutton Construction has completed work on a new shelter at the 5th Street Park.

The new shelter will provide space for families and community members to gather, have picnics, and participate in various outdoor activities. The project is spearheaded by Quality Play for All, with help from the following partners:

&nbsp;City of Junction City- Parks and Recreation and Public Works,&nbsp;Students from Kansas State University’s chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America, USD 475 Career and Technical Education Students,&nbsp; Kaw Valley Engineering, and Foley Equipment.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostHutton Construction has completed work on a new shelter at the 5th Street Park.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730940565368.jpeg" alt="&nbsp; Two Hutton employees and Students from the KSU Chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America who volunteered their skills to participate in the building process of the shelter.&nbsp; ( Photos by Angie Greenwood)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; Two Hutton employees and Students from the KSU Chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America who volunteered their skills to participate in the building process of the shelter.&nbsp; ( Photos by Angie Greenwood)</figcaption>
 </figure>The new shelter will provide space for families and community members to gather, have picnics, and participate in various outdoor activities. The project is spearheaded by Quality Play for All, with help from the following partners:&nbsp;City of Junction City- Parks and Recreation and Public Works,&nbsp;Students from Kansas State University’s chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America, USD 475 Career and Technical Education Students,&nbsp; Kaw Valley Engineering, and Foley Equipment.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730940244736.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730940270279.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Construction work completed on a new shelter at 5th Street Park

In observance of Veterans Day, the Geary County Public Works Department and Geary County Landfill will be closed on Monday,November 11, 2024.

The Geary County Transfer Station will remain open on November 11, 2024.

Geary County Public Works Department and Geary County Landfill will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, November 12, 202

In observance of Veterans Day, the Geary County Public Works Department and Geary County Landfill will be closed on Monday,November 11, 2024.The Geary County Transfer Station will remain open on November 11, 2024.Geary County Public Works Department and Geary County Landfill will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, November 12, 202

Veterans Day closures

FORT RILEY, Kansas - The 1st Infantry Division conducted a street renaming ceremony to commemorate the heroic actions of Capt. Larry L. Taylor, a veteran of the First Division awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in the Vietnam War, on Fort Riley, Nov. 1, 2024.

The ceremony to commemorate Taylor’s heroism during the Vietnam War took place at the corner where the formerly named Smoky Hill Road and Marshall Drive meet on post.

“This is a tremendous honor for a tremendous pilot,” said Sgt. (Ret.) Dave Hill, a veteran of the 1st Infantry Division, rescued by Taylor in the Vietnam War. “As long as we remember him in events like this, Larry is still here.”

The newly named Taylor Road is another reminder of the 1st Infantry Division’s dedication to honoring the legacy of Soldiers of the Big Red One.

On June 18, 1968, at approximately 9 p.m., a horn sounded, and the pilots raced to get their helicopters enroute to a rice paddy near a village south of Ap Go Cong, Bình Dương Province of the Republic of Vietnam. After learning that the coordinates led to a four-man long-range reconnaissance patrol team whom the enemy had outnumbered and surrounded, Taylor had to think fast. He told his co-pilot to fire his last bullets along the east side of the patrol group then go back to base. Taylor used the helicopter’s lights to conceal the patrol group as they fled for safety.

Flying into the enemy, in his helicopter designed for two, he rescued four additional people on its landing gear - a feat never attempted before.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730939532104.jpeg" alt="( Photos -Fort Riley )" />
 <figcaption>( Photos -Fort Riley )</figcaption>
 </figure>Fort Riley Public Affairs Office releaseFORT RILEY, Kansas - The 1st Infantry Division conducted a street renaming ceremony to commemorate the heroic actions of Capt. Larry L. Taylor, a veteran of the First Division awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in the Vietnam War, on Fort Riley, Nov. 1, 2024.The ceremony to commemorate Taylor’s heroism during the Vietnam War took place at the corner where the formerly named Smoky Hill Road and Marshall Drive meet on post.“This is a tremendous honor for a tremendous pilot,” said Sgt. (Ret.) Dave Hill, a veteran of the 1st Infantry Division, rescued by Taylor in the Vietnam War. “As long as we remember him in events like this, Larry is still here.”The newly named Taylor Road is another reminder of the 1st Infantry Division’s dedication to honoring the legacy of Soldiers of the Big Red One.On June 18, 1968, at approximately 9 p.m., a horn sounded, and the pilots raced to get their helicopters enroute to a rice paddy near a village south of Ap Go Cong, Bình Dương Province of the Republic of Vietnam. After learning that the coordinates led to a four-man long-range reconnaissance patrol team whom the enemy had outnumbered and surrounded, Taylor had to think fast. He told his co-pilot to fire his last bullets along the east side of the patrol group then go back to base. Taylor used the helicopter’s lights to conceal the patrol group as they fled for safety.Flying into the enemy, in his helicopter designed for two, he rescued four additional people on its landing gear - a feat never attempted before.

Taylor Road Commemorates Vietnam Veteran

GEARY COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating a death that occurred at the Northeast Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Center in Junction City, according to a media release from the agency.

The KBI was contacted on Tuesday to investigate the death of a 17-year-old boy from Dodge City. The teen had been at the detention facility since early August as a result of a child in need of care case. KBI agents responded to the facility to investigate.

By statute, the KBI investigates the deaths of prisoners in the custody of Kansas jails and prisons, and juveniles in state, county, or city custody, unless the person who dies is being regularly attended by a physician, or the death is ruled natural by autopsy.

The investigation indicates that personnel found the 17-year-old unresponsive around 6:50 a.m., and began life-saving measures. Geary County EMS responded and continued resuscitation efforts during transport to a local hospital. He was pronounced deceased by medical personnel around 7:40 a.m. An autopsy is scheduled. The investigation is ongoing.

GEARY COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating a death that occurred at the Northeast Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Center in Junction City, according to a media release from the agency.The KBI was contacted on Tuesday to investigate the death of a 17-year-old boy from Dodge City. The teen had been at the detention facility since early August as a result of a child in need of care case. KBI agents responded to the facility to investigate.By statute, the KBI investigates the deaths of prisoners in the custody of Kansas jails and prisons, and juveniles in state, county, or city custody, unless the person who dies is being regularly attended by a physician, or the death is ruled natural by autopsy.The investigation indicates that personnel found the 17-year-old unresponsive around 6:50 a.m., and began life-saving measures. Geary County EMS responded and continued resuscitation efforts during transport to a local hospital. He was pronounced deceased by medical personnel around 7:40 a.m. An autopsy is scheduled. The investigation is ongoing.

KBI: Teen in custody of Regional Juvenile Detention Center dies

Following Tuesday's election there have been questions about what is a provisional ballot and the process involved with them. There are 706 provisional ballots that will have to be reviewed during the canvass of the votes on Nov. 15.

County Clerk Courtney Gilbert released an explanation on the process.

Following Tuesday's election there have been questions about what is a provisional ballot and the process involved with them. There are 706 provisional ballots that will have to be reviewed during the canvass of the votes on Nov. 15.County Clerk Courtney Gilbert released an explanation on the process.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730925626692.png" alt=" " />
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Provisional ballot process

The Geary County 4-H Foundation is hosting a soup supper and bingo night, Sunday, November 10, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the 4-H/Sr. Citizens Center, 1025 South Spring Valley Road in Junction City.&nbsp; 

The Foundation is a not for profit organization for the purpose of supporting and promoting the 4-H program in Geary County.&nbsp; Chili, chicken noodle soup, crackers, carrots, and cinnamon rolls will be available for a donation starting at 5:30pm.&nbsp; Bingo will start about 6:15pm with a nominal charge for bingo cards and prizes for the winners.&nbsp; 

For more information about this event or the Geary County 4-H Foundation, contact Ginger Kopfer at the Geary County Extension Office, 785-238-4161.

The Geary County 4-H Foundation is hosting a soup supper and bingo night, Sunday, November 10, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the 4-H/Sr. Citizens Center, 1025 South Spring Valley Road in Junction City.&nbsp; The Foundation is a not for profit organization for the purpose of supporting and promoting the 4-H program in Geary County.&nbsp; Chili, chicken noodle soup, crackers, carrots, and cinnamon rolls will be available for a donation starting at 5:30pm.&nbsp; Bingo will start about 6:15pm with a nominal charge for bingo cards and prizes for the winners.&nbsp; For more information about this event or the Geary County 4-H Foundation, contact Ginger Kopfer at the Geary County Extension Office, 785-238-4161.

Geary County 4-H Foundation Soup Supper and Bingo Night   

Fort Riley’s Hiring and Education Fair will take place Thursday, Nov. 7, at Riley’s Community Center, 446 Seitz Avenue, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event is free to attend and open to all active duty Soldiers, family members, veterans, retirees, Department of Defense civilians, and community members.

The event will feature schools from around the United States, regional and local employers, KANSASWORKS, education counselors, financial aid advisors, Transition Assistance Program counselors and many other organizations. More than 75 exhibitors will be on-site.

For more information contact Fort Riley Education Services at 785-239-6481 or the Transition Assistance Program at 785-239-2193.

Visitors to Fort Riley who don’t have a Department of Defense identification card can apply for a pass online. Go to home.army.mil/riley and click on the Accessing Fort Riley link. Visitors can also apply for a pass at the visitor control center near the Henry gate, Exit 301 off I-70. You can learn more about access to Fort Riley by calling 785-239-2982.

Fort Riley’s Hiring and Education Fair will take place Thursday, Nov. 7, at Riley’s Community Center, 446 Seitz Avenue, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event is free to attend and open to all active duty Soldiers, family members, veterans, retirees, Department of Defense civilians, and community members.The event will feature schools from around the United States, regional and local employers, KANSASWORKS, education counselors, financial aid advisors, Transition Assistance Program counselors and many other organizations. More than 75 exhibitors will be on-site.For more information contact Fort Riley Education Services at 785-239-6481 or the Transition Assistance Program at 785-239-2193.Visitors to Fort Riley who don’t have a Department of Defense identification card can apply for a pass online. Go to home.army.mil/riley and click on the Accessing Fort Riley link. Visitors can also apply for a pass at the visitor control center near the Henry gate, Exit 301 off I-70. You can learn more about access to Fort Riley by calling 785-239-2982.

Fort Riley will hold Hiring and Education Fair on Thursday

The Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) is moving closer to launching the Kansas Home Rebates Program, an initiative aimed at helping Kansas households lower energy costs and improve home comfort. With funding from the Inflation Reduction Act, this program will provide $105.6 million to support energy savings for low- to moderate-income households in Kansas.

The KCC has partnered with <a href="https://www.horne.com/">HORNE</a>, a nationally recognized professional services firm, to assist with program design, application development, and implementation. To ensure the Home Rebates Program meets the needs of Kansas residents, the KCC is scheduling engagement sessions with stakeholders, including Kansas utility companies, contractors, other state agencies, and the community.

To make rebates available, the program’s design and applications must be approved by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The KCC is working toward a submission deadline of January 31, 2025, with rebate funding expected to be accessible to Kansas households later in 2025, following DOE approval.

In the meantime, Kansans are encouraged to visit the <a href="https://kcc.ks.gov/">KCC website</a> for information on participating in engagement sessions, learning more about the Home Rebates Program, tracking program updates, and finding answers to frequently asked questions.

For additional details on how the Kansas Home Rebates Program can benefit you and your household, stay tuned to updates from the KCC.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578754176087.jpeg" alt=" " />
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 </figure>KCCThe Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) is moving closer to launching the Kansas Home Rebates Program, an initiative aimed at helping Kansas households lower energy costs and improve home comfort. With funding from the Inflation Reduction Act, this program will provide $105.6 million to support energy savings for low- to moderate-income households in Kansas.The KCC has partnered with <a href="https://www.horne.com/">HORNE</a>, a nationally recognized professional services firm, to assist with program design, application development, and implementation. To ensure the Home Rebates Program meets the needs of Kansas residents, the KCC is scheduling engagement sessions with stakeholders, including Kansas utility companies, contractors, other state agencies, and the community.To make rebates available, the program’s design and applications must be approved by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The KCC is working toward a submission deadline of January 31, 2025, with rebate funding expected to be accessible to Kansas households later in 2025, following DOE approval.In the meantime, Kansans are encouraged to visit the <a href="https://kcc.ks.gov/">KCC website</a> for information on participating in engagement sessions, learning more about the Home Rebates Program, tracking program updates, and finding answers to frequently asked questions.For additional details on how the Kansas Home Rebates Program can benefit you and your household, stay tuned to updates from the KCC.

KCC prepares for Home Rebates program launch in Kansas, seeks public input

MANHATTAN– Law enforcement are investigating deadly stabbing in Manhattan and have made an arrest.

Just after 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, police responded to a report of a stabbing in the 3000 block of Arbor Drive in Manhattan, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

Officers located Tabatha Deer, 24, of Mountain Home, Arkansas, who had sustained multiple stab wounds. EMS transported Deer to Ascension Via Christi Hospital for treatment. She was later airlifted to Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka, where she succumbed to her injuries.

The suspect, Hunter Smith, 24, of Manhattan, was apprehended at the scene yesterday and taken into custody before being transported to Stormont Vail Hospital for treatment of his injuries. On Wednesday, Smith was formally arrested on requested charges of first-degree murder, with bond set at $1 million.

MANHATTAN– Law enforcement are investigating deadly stabbing in Manhattan and have made an arrest.Just after 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, police responded to a report of a stabbing in the 3000 block of Arbor Drive in Manhattan, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.Officers located Tabatha Deer, 24, of Mountain Home, Arkansas, who had sustained multiple stab wounds. EMS transported Deer to Ascension Via Christi Hospital for treatment. She was later airlifted to Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka, where she succumbed to her injuries.The suspect, Hunter Smith, 24, of Manhattan, was apprehended at the scene yesterday and taken into custody before being transported to Stormont Vail Hospital for treatment of his injuries. On Wednesday, Smith was formally arrested on requested charges of first-degree murder, with bond set at $1 million.

RCPD: Woman injured in knife attack has died

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

Joshua Sample, Theft-All other, arrested 11/05

Brett Williams, Transporting an open container, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 11/05

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730904961449.jpeg" alt="Steven Pritchett, Domestic battery, arrested 11/05" />
 <figcaption>Steven Pritchett, Domestic battery, arrested 11/05</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730905001800.jpeg" alt="Richaun Faulks, Domestic battery, Unlawful damage to property, Criminal deprivation of property, arrested&nbsp; 11/05" />
 <figcaption>Richaun Faulks, Domestic battery, Unlawful damage to property, Criminal deprivation of property, arrested&nbsp; 11/05</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730905012010.jpeg" alt="Alquilia Faulks, Conspiracy, arrested 11/06" />
 <figcaption>Alquilia Faulks, Conspiracy, arrested 11/06</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730905001800.jpeg" alt="Richaun Faulks, Violaion of a protection order, arrested 11/06" />
 <figcaption>Richaun Faulks, Violaion of a protection order, arrested 11/06</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Joshua Sample, Theft-All other, arrested 11/05Brett Williams, Transporting an open container, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 11/05Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos Nov. 6

43.60% of the registered voters went to the polls in Geary County for the general election. Winners in some of the local races are undetermined at this point. The canvass of the votes will be held at 9.m. Nov. 15. There are 706 provisional ballots to be reviewed.

County Clerk Courtney Gilbert: "I believe the closer races, for example Commissioner District 2 and Sheriff, we really won’t know ‘for sure’ who the winner is until after the canvas."

In the Second District County Commission race Kathy Tremont has received 1,441 votes so far compared to 1,313 for Alex Tyson. In the race for Sheriff Nathan Boeckman has received 4,352 votes while Eric Coffman has received 3,998.

By Dewey TerrillJC Post43.60% of the registered voters went to the polls in Geary County for the general election. Winners in some of the local races are undetermined at this point. The canvass of the votes will be held at 9.m. Nov. 15. There are 706 provisional ballots to be reviewed.County Clerk Courtney Gilbert: "I believe the closer races, for example Commissioner District 2 and Sheriff, we really won’t know ‘for sure’ who the winner is until after the canvas."In the Second District County Commission race Kathy Tremont has received 1,441 votes so far compared to 1,313 for Alex Tyson. In the race for Sheriff Nathan Boeckman has received 4,352 votes while Eric Coffman has received 3,998.

General Election assessment for Geary County

Courtney Gilbert&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;5,332&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Eric Coffman&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3,998

Kathy Tremont&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1,441

Alex Tyson&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1,313

Keith Ascher&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1,781

17th District Kansas Senate - Geary, Morris, Lyon counties

Mike Argabright&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5,543, 1,985, 7,244 -- Total 14,772

Lillian Lingenfelter&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3,468, 710, 5,314 -- Total 9, 492

68th District Kansas House - Geary, Morris, Riley&nbsp; counties

Nathan Butler&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1,844 ,&nbsp; 1,877, 576 -- Total 4, 297

Michael Seymour&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 791, 838, 291 -- Total 1,920

65th District Kansas House - Geary County

Shawn Chauncey&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3, 408

Lorraine Ceniceros&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2,552

43.60% of the registered voters cast ballots. There are 706 provisional ballots, these will be canvassed on Friday, Nov. 15 at 9:00 a.m.&nbsp;

Geary County Clerk:Courtney Gilbert&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;5,332&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Kimberly Bradney&nbsp; &nbsp; 3, 216Geary County Sheriff:Eric Coffman&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3,998Nathan Boeckman&nbsp; &nbsp; 4,352Geary County Commission 2nd District:Kathy Tremont&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1,441Alex Tyson&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1,313Geary County Commission 3rd District:Keith Ascher&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1,781Geary County Attorney:Krista Blaisdell 7,018Geary County Register of Deeds:Jacqie Reisinger 7,100Geary County Treasurer:Sherri Childs 7,17417th District Kansas Senate - Geary, Morris, Lyon countiesMike Argabright&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5,543, 1,985, 7,244 -- Total 14,772Lillian Lingenfelter&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3,468, 710, 5,314 -- Total 9, 49268th District Kansas House - Geary, Morris, Riley&nbsp; countiesNathan Butler&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1,844 ,&nbsp; 1,877, 576 -- Total 4, 297Michael Seymour&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 791, 838, 291 -- Total 1,92065th District Kansas House - Geary CountyShawn Chauncey&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3, 408Lorraine Ceniceros&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2,55243.60% of the registered voters cast ballots. There are 706 provisional ballots, these will be canvassed on Friday, Nov. 15 at 9:00 a.m.&nbsp;

Unofficial Geary County General Election Results

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement&nbsp;are investigating a stabbing incident in the 3000 block of Arbor Drive in Manhattan, according to a social media report from the Riley County Police Department.

 One victim was transported to Via Christi for treatment of injuries. The suspect is in custody and also receiving treatment for his injuries. There is no current threat to public safety.

The RCPD released no additional details. Check the for more information as it becomes available.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement&nbsp;are investigating a stabbing incident in the 3000 block of Arbor Drive in Manhattan, according to a social media report from the Riley County Police Department. One victim was transported to Via Christi for treatment of injuries. The suspect is in custody and also receiving treatment for his injuries. There is no current threat to public safety.The RCPD released no additional details. Check the for more information as it becomes available.

RCPD: Stabbing victim hospitalized, suspect in custody

Zachary Olson,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 10/31

Samoht Thomas, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 10/31

Amanda Headlee,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 10/31

Marcus Jackson, Abuse of a child, Knowingly inflict cruel and inhuman corporal punishment, child &gt;6 years old &lt; 18 years old, arrested 11/01

Patricia Purcell, Interference with LEO, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 11/01

Anthony Henderson, Harass by telecom device, Phone call with intent to abuse/threaten/harass, Intimidation of a witness or victim, Prevent reporting of victimization, Criminal damage to property without consent (value &lt; $1,000), Criminal restraint, Domestic battery, rude physical contact with family member or dating relationship, arrested 11/01

Cassandra Shubert, Failure to appear, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 11/01

Manuel Villareal, DUI-Liquor or drugs, Transporting of alcoholic beverage, Driver's license without valid DL, arrested 11/01

Kodi Arnold, Failure to appear, arrested 11/01

Mark Hecker,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 11/01

Shannon Flynn, No driver's license in possession, Listening or talking on a wireless communication device while driving, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 11/02

Osvaldo Bigas Jr, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 11/02

Shanyia Everette, Domestic battery, arrested 11/02

Jamie Andrus, Cruelty to animals, Abandon without provisions for care, arrested 11/02

Jaisen Morris, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 11/03

Candelario Abimael, Failure to appear, arrested 11/03

Travis Golden Jr, Criminal damage to property without consent (value &lt;1,000), Aggravated domestic battery, choke in rude manner, family member/dating relationship, arrested 11/03

Santez White, Failure to appear, arrested 11/04

David Snider, Outside warrant, arrested 11/04

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730832840396.jpeg" alt="Ashley Demercurio, Failure to appear (Three counts), arrested 10/31" />
 <figcaption>Ashley Demercurio, Failure to appear (Three counts), arrested 10/31</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730832987417.jpeg" alt="Jacqualyn Brooks, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 11/01" />
 <figcaption>Jacqualyn Brooks, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 11/01</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730833024619.jpeg" alt="John Blunt, Criminal threat, cause terror, evacuation or disruption, Criminal damage to property without consent (value &lt;$1,000), Aggravated intimidation of a witness/victim, Threat of force/violence, Domestic battery, Knowing rude physical contact with family member or dating relationship, Aggravated domestic battery, Impede breathing/blocking nose/mouth of family/dating relationship, arrested 11/03" />
 <figcaption>John Blunt, Criminal threat, cause terror, evacuation or disruption, Criminal damage to property without consent (value &lt;$1,000), Aggravated intimidation of a witness/victim, Threat of force/violence, Domestic battery, Knowing rude physical contact with family member or dating relationship, Aggravated domestic battery, Impede breathing/blocking nose/mouth of family/dating relationship, arrested 11/03</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730833230519.jpeg" alt="Jackie Harold, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, Failure to appear, arrested 11/04" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Harold, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, Failure to appear, arrested 11/04</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730833289602.jpeg" alt="Rene Osborn, Theft-All other, arrested 11/05" />
 <figcaption>Rene Osborn, Theft-All other, arrested 11/05</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730833301211.jpeg" alt="Gregory Osborn,&nbsp;Theft-All other, arrested 11/05" />
 <figcaption>Gregory Osborn,&nbsp;Theft-All other, arrested 11/05</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Zachary Olson,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 10/31Samoht Thomas, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 10/31Amanda Headlee,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 10/31Marcus Jackson, Abuse of a child, Knowingly inflict cruel and inhuman corporal punishment, child &gt;6 years old &lt; 18 years old, arrested 11/01Patricia Purcell, Interference with LEO, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 11/01Anthony Henderson, Harass by telecom device, Phone call with intent to abuse/threaten/harass, Intimidation of a witness or victim, Prevent reporting of victimization, Criminal damage to property without consent (value &lt; $1,000), Criminal restraint, Domestic battery, rude physical contact with family member or dating relationship, arrested 11/01Cassandra Shubert, Failure to appear, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 11/01Manuel Villareal, DUI-Liquor or drugs, Transporting of alcoholic beverage, Driver's license without valid DL, arrested 11/01Kodi Arnold, Failure to appear, arrested 11/01Mark Hecker,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 11/01Shannon Flynn, No driver's license in possession, Listening or talking on a wireless communication device while driving, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 11/02Osvaldo Bigas Jr, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 11/02Shanyia Everette, Domestic battery, arrested 11/02Jamie Andrus, Cruelty to animals, Abandon without provisions for care, arrested 11/02Jaisen Morris, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 11/03Candelario Abimael, Failure to appear, arrested 11/03Travis Golden Jr, Criminal damage to property without consent (value &lt;1,000), Aggravated domestic battery, choke in rude manner, family member/dating relationship, arrested 11/03Santez White, Failure to appear, arrested 11/04David Snider, Outside warrant, arrested 11/04Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos Nov. 1-5

Geary County Emergency Management says find an alternate route and plan ahead.  

Attached is a map showing the portion of Eisenhower Drive that will be closed from November 11th – December 6th for underground utility tie-ins that are for the new Early Childhood Center.

Geary County Emergency Management says find an alternate route and plan ahead. Attached is a map showing the portion of Eisenhower Drive that will be closed from November 11th – December 6th for underground utility tie-ins that are for the new Early Childhood Center.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730823144474.jpeg" alt=" " />
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 </figure>

Portion of Eisenhower Drive will be temporarily closed

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a burglary in Manhattan.

Just after 8:30a.m. Monday, officers filed a report of burglary in the 500 block of Richards Drive, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 35-year-old woman reported her work van had been broken into and a Honda EU7000 generator had been taken by an unknown subject.

&nbsp;Total estimated loss associated with this report is approximately $5,000. &nbsp;Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a burglary in Manhattan.Just after 8:30a.m. Monday, officers filed a report of burglary in the 500 block of Richards Drive, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 35-year-old woman reported her work van had been broken into and a Honda EU7000 generator had been taken by an unknown subject. &nbsp;Total estimated loss associated with this report is approximately $5,000. &nbsp;Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: $5000 generator taken in burglary

On this election day polls are open until&nbsp; 7 p.m.

Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert said if you ae unsure of your polling place contact the Election Office at 785-238-3912.

On this election day polls are open until&nbsp; 7 p.m.Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert said if you ae unsure of your polling place contact the Election Office at 785-238-3912.

This is Election Day 

Kathy Tremont is running for election to the Second District seat on the Geary County Commission. She is challenging incumbent Alex Tyson for the seat.

Tremont wrote: To the Citizens of Geary County:

It is important to respond to and clarify some of the accusatory remarks made by my opponent regarding my handling of funds as the former County Treasurer. County financial responsibilities are set up within state statutes to provide checks and balances for county taxpayer dollars. As County Treasurer, I was in charge of tax collection, deposits, and distributions in addition to the Motor Vehicle Department. I was an agent for the State of Kansas. It would be helpful for others (including some current commissioners), to understand the duties of the Treasurer’s Office and the County Clerk’s Office, which are different in function. Voters deserve better than this current climate of nasty politics from those who should know better. Instead, I have to work to correct statements that Commissioners Giordano and Tyson made that are inaccurate, misleading, and unprofessional.

Mr. Tyson claims I “operated the budget with 24 outside accounts, with 18 of them not on any financial reports.” Statutorily, and MOST importantly, the Treasurer is not responsible for operating the County budget; I was responsible for my (Treasurer’s) budget and had no difficulties with it. These “outside accounts” had been audited through 2016 with no issues; a different firm audited from 2017 through 2020, and then yet another, in 2021. There was a period, 2017 through 2020, that they were not picked up for audit. I don’t know why they weren’t; auditors choose what they want to audit, and it is not the responsibility of the County Treasurer to tell them what to audit. An audit is a tool to communicate findings to the governing body and make recommendations that improve the county’s operation. It is their opinion, and 30 other auditors may not find the same thing or look at the same particular items. This is not to say the accounts don’t need to be accounted for; department heads were responsible for providing the information anytime they opened an account, as I was responsible for pledging the securities to protect our funds in the bank.

Commissioner Giordano references a paragraph from a management letter, presumably regarding the 2020 audit, which states: “The County Treasurer’s office does properly reconcile total cash daily, and then again monthly, with respect to the amount of cash in the funds compared to the total amounts in the bank accounts.” However, the County’s accounting system balances for individual banking deposit assets are not reconciled to the specific general ledger accounts intended to track each balance.” Please note that it says, “The County Treasurer’s office does properly reconcile....” The rest refers to the County’s accounting system, which is the office's responsibility for the operating budget, not the Treasurer’s Office. I do not profess to be perfect, but I am confident in my competence as the former Treasurer.

In closing, I will leave the voters to consider: Commissioners Tyson and Giordano stress the savings the finance director has made for Geary County. This position is currently the 3rd highest paid county employee at $131,000 a year---$1.3M over a ten year period, plus a $354,000 office budget. (This position/budget was created in 2022.) I do not know how we can continually sustain the budget increases. I apparently have missed the savings on my tax bill.

You have trusted me for over 40 years, and I hope you can trust me as we move forward. I decided to run for commissioner to represent the folks of Geary County, I did not sign up to be publicly humiliated. You can expect these things at the national level but not locally in a smaller community. How do we recover from broken friendships and distrust in these elections

I would appreciate the opportunity to serve as your County Commissioner; I will always do my best for Geary County. We need to GROW TOGETHER, NOT APART.

Kathy Tremont is running for election to the Second District seat on the Geary County Commission. She is challenging incumbent Alex Tyson for the seat.Tremont wrote: To the Citizens of Geary County:It is important to respond to and clarify some of the accusatory remarks made by my opponent regarding my handling of funds as the former County Treasurer. County financial responsibilities are set up within state statutes to provide checks and balances for county taxpayer dollars. As County Treasurer, I was in charge of tax collection, deposits, and distributions in addition to the Motor Vehicle Department. I was an agent for the State of Kansas. It would be helpful for others (including some current commissioners), to understand the duties of the Treasurer’s Office and the County Clerk’s Office, which are different in function. Voters deserve better than this current climate of nasty politics from those who should know better. Instead, I have to work to correct statements that Commissioners Giordano and Tyson made that are inaccurate, misleading, and unprofessional.Mr. Tyson claims I “operated the budget with 24 outside accounts, with 18 of them not on any financial reports.” Statutorily, and MOST importantly, the Treasurer is not responsible for operating the County budget; I was responsible for my (Treasurer’s) budget and had no difficulties with it. These “outside accounts” had been audited through 2016 with no issues; a different firm audited from 2017 through 2020, and then yet another, in 2021. There was a period, 2017 through 2020, that they were not picked up for audit. I don’t know why they weren’t; auditors choose what they want to audit, and it is not the responsibility of the County Treasurer to tell them what to audit. An audit is a tool to communicate findings to the governing body and make recommendations that improve the county’s operation. It is their opinion, and 30 other auditors may not find the same thing or look at the same particular items. This is not to say the accounts don’t need to be accounted for; department heads were responsible for providing the information anytime they opened an account, as I was responsible for pledging the securities to protect our funds in the bank.Commissioner Giordano references a paragraph from a management letter, presumably regarding the 2020 audit, which states: “The County Treasurer’s office does properly reconcile total cash daily, and then again monthly, with respect to the amount of cash in the funds compared to the total amounts in the bank accounts.” However, the County’s accounting system balances for individual banking deposit assets are not reconciled to the specific general ledger accounts intended to track each balance.” Please note that it says, “The County Treasurer’s office does properly reconcile....” The rest refers to the County’s accounting system, which is the office's responsibility for the operating budget, not the Treasurer’s Office. I do not profess to be perfect, but I am confident in my competence as the former Treasurer.In closing, I will leave the voters to consider: Commissioners Tyson and Giordano stress the savings the finance director has made for Geary County. This position is currently the 3rd highest paid county employee at $131,000 a year---$1.3M over a ten year period, plus a $354,000 office budget. (This position/budget was created in 2022.) I do not know how we can continually sustain the budget increases. I apparently have missed the savings on my tax bill.You have trusted me for over 40 years, and I hope you can trust me as we move forward. I decided to run for commissioner to represent the folks of Geary County, I did not sign up to be publicly humiliated. You can expect these things at the national level but not locally in a smaller community. How do we recover from broken friendships and distrust in these electionsI would appreciate the opportunity to serve as your County Commissioner; I will always do my best for Geary County. We need to GROW TOGETHER, NOT APART.The election is Tuesday.

County Commission Candidate Kathy Tremont

Alex Tyson is running for reelection to the Second District seat on the Geary County Commission. He is being challenged in the race by former County Treasurer Kathy Tremont

The Tyson family contacted JC Post on Monday.

Our previous treasurer, who resigned mid-term, continues to obscure the boundaries between operational and oversight roles. Historically, the clerk and treasurer's office supervised financial activities in the county. 

Mrs. Tremont consistently argued that introducing a finance director would duplicate existing services, emphasizing the clerk and treasurer's budget oversight. However, audits revealed significant deficiencies in reconciling taxpayer funds. It is crucial that voters recognize Mrs. Tremont's opposition to a finance director and her involvement in the county's financial practices. Instead of accountability, she shifts blame. While I cannot comment on her character, her actions and records are pertinent. 

With the election just one day away, the county's financial future hangs in the balance, and Mrs. Tremont's stance also threatens to hinder economic development progress. Our community can't afford a four year setback, we can't afford the old ways of thinking, WE CANNOT AFFORD TO GO BACKWARDS!

Alex Tyson is running for reelection to the Second District seat on the Geary County Commission. He is being challenged in the race by former County Treasurer Kathy TremontThe Tyson family contacted JC Post on Monday.Our previous treasurer, who resigned mid-term, continues to obscure the boundaries between operational and oversight roles. Historically, the clerk and treasurer's office supervised financial activities in the county. Mrs. Tremont consistently argued that introducing a finance director would duplicate existing services, emphasizing the clerk and treasurer's budget oversight. However, audits revealed significant deficiencies in reconciling taxpayer funds. It is crucial that voters recognize Mrs. Tremont's opposition to a finance director and her involvement in the county's financial practices. Instead of accountability, she shifts blame. While I cannot comment on her character, her actions and records are pertinent. With the election just one day away, the county's financial future hangs in the balance, and Mrs. Tremont's stance also threatens to hinder economic development progress. Our community can't afford a four year setback, we can't afford the old ways of thinking, WE CANNOT AFFORD TO GO BACKWARDS!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730760193454.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The election is Tuesday.

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