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.

Tatyana Jenkins, Failure to appear, arrested 08/14

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/2024/8/1723730887097.jpeg" alt="Kristen Moast, Failure to appear, arrested 08/14" />
 <figcaption>Kristen Moast, Failure to appear, arrested 08/14</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723730946165.jpeg" alt="Amanda Defulvio, Theft-All other, GCBP" />
 <figcaption>Amanda Defulvio, Theft-All other, GCBP</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723730980294.jpeg" alt="Joseph Bauler, Arrest by LEO, Warrant arrest, Failure to appear, Criminal damage to property without consent, Value $1,000 to $25,000, arrested 08/14" />
 <figcaption>Joseph Bauler, Arrest by LEO, Warrant arrest, Failure to appear, Criminal damage to property without consent, Value $1,000 to $25,000, arrested 08/14</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723731060010.jpeg" alt="Donte Roberts, Criminal deprivation of property, Violate offender registration act, arrested 08/14" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723731113006.jpeg" alt="Trunell Hunter, Probation violation, arrested 08/14" />
 <figcaption>Trunell Hunter, Probation violation, arrested 08/14</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Tatyana Jenkins, Failure to appear, arrested 08/14Recent 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 Aug. 15

...A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 815 PM CDT

FOR NORTHEASTERN OTTAWA...WESTERN CLAY AND SOUTHEASTERN CLOUD COUNTIES...

At 746 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Oak Hill, moving northeast at 35 mph.

IMPACT...Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees.

Clay Center, Miltonvale, Morganville, Oak Hill, and Idana.

&nbsp;The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...
  Northwestern Dickinson County in central Kansas...
  Eastern Ottawa County in north central Kansas...
  Western Clay County in north central Kansas...
  Southeastern Cloud County in north central Kansas...

* Until 815 PM CDT.



* At 731 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 6 miles northeast
  of Wells, moving northeast at 35 mph.

  HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts.

  SOURCE...Radar indicated.

  IMPACT...Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...
  Clay Center, Miltonvale, Morganville, Wells, Manchester, Longford,
  Oak Hill, and Idana.&nbsp;&nbsp;

UPDATE:...A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 815 PM CDTFOR NORTHEASTERN OTTAWA...WESTERN CLAY AND SOUTHEASTERN CLOUD COUNTIES...At 746 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Oak Hill, moving northeast at 35 mph.HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts.SOURCE...Radar indicated.IMPACT...Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees.Locations impacted include...Clay Center, Miltonvale, Morganville, Oak Hill, and Idana.---&nbsp;The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...
 Northwestern Dickinson County in central Kansas...
 Eastern Ottawa County in north central Kansas...
 Western Clay County in north central Kansas...
 Southeastern Cloud County in north central Kansas...

* Until 815 PM CDT.

* At 731 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 6 miles northeast
 of Wells, moving northeast at 35 mph.

 HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts.

 SOURCE...Radar indicated.

 IMPACT...Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...
 Clay Center, Miltonvale, Morganville, Wells, Manchester, Longford,
 Oak Hill, and Idana.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Severe Thunderstorm Warning information from Wednesday night

WalletHub has ranked Manhattan Area Technical College the #1 two-year college in the nation by WalletHub.

The WalletHub rankings are based on key performance indicators including educational outcomes, cost and financing, plus career outcomes.&nbsp;

"We are honored to receive this top ranking," said Manhattan Tech President Dr. Genandt. "This achievement is a testament to the hard work of our faculty, staff, and students, and it reflects our ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for success."

Manhattan Tech continues to offer programs that meet the needs of today's job market, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a prosperous career.

WalletHub has ranked Manhattan Area Technical College the #1 two-year college in the nation by WalletHub.The WalletHub rankings are based on key performance indicators including educational outcomes, cost and financing, plus career outcomes.&nbsp;"We are honored to receive this top ranking," said Manhattan Tech President Dr. Genandt. "This achievement is a testament to the hard work of our faculty, staff, and students, and it reflects our ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for success."Manhattan Tech continues to offer programs that meet the needs of today's job market, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a prosperous career.

WalletHub ranks Manhattan Area Technical College #1

The Geary County Convention and Visitor's Bureau is looking for volunteers for the CVB's State Fair Booth. 

The State Fair will be from Sept. 6-15 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds in Hutchinson.

Volunteers will serve a six-hour shift and help promote Geary County to guests who stop by the CVB booth. 

Interested volunteers can reach out to the CVB by calling (785) 238-2885 or send an email to paigem@gearycounty.org

By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Geary County Convention and Visitor's Bureau is looking for volunteers for the CVB's State Fair Booth. The State Fair will be from Sept. 6-15 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds in Hutchinson.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723658906880.jpeg" alt="Paige Mendoza, the Marketing and Sales Coordinator for the Geary County Convention and Visitor's Bureau promotes Geary County at the Kansas State Fair in 2023." />
 <figcaption>Paige Mendoza, the Marketing and Sales Coordinator for the Geary County Convention and Visitor's Bureau promotes Geary County at the Kansas State Fair in 2023.</figcaption>
 </figure>Volunteers will serve a six-hour shift and help promote Geary County to guests who stop by the CVB booth. Interested volunteers can reach out to the CVB by calling (785) 238-2885 or send an email to paigem@gearycounty.org

Geary County CVB seeks volunteers for State Fair Booth

&nbsp; I.C.A.R.E. has announced that they are partnering with JC South Kiwanis Club in their Coronado Park/Playground Equipment Upgrade by installing an outdoor fitness “Cardio Stepper” for adults of all ages. If funds permit, they will also purchase park accessories as needed.

I.C.A.R.E. has received donations of $3,500 from Stormont Vail Foundation and $3,000 from Greater Geary Community Foundation. The Cardio Stepper and accessories are priced at approximately $10,000. 

"We’re excited to be a part of the JC South Kiwanis Club Coronado Park upgrade project," said Vickie Bobbitt, Executive Director, I.C.A.R.E.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723651074566.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; I.C.A.R.E. has announced that they are partnering with JC South Kiwanis Club in their Coronado Park/Playground Equipment Upgrade by installing an outdoor fitness “Cardio Stepper” for adults of all ages. If funds permit, they will also purchase park accessories as needed.I.C.A.R.E. has received donations of $3,500 from Stormont Vail Foundation and $3,000 from Greater Geary Community Foundation. The Cardio Stepper and accessories are priced at approximately $10,000. "We’re excited to be a part of the JC South Kiwanis Club Coronado Park upgrade project," said Vickie Bobbitt, Executive Director, I.C.A.R.E.&nbsp;&nbsp;

I.C.A.R.E. partners on Coronado Park /  Playground Equipment Upgrade

By Melissa Kirkwood, Marketing / Development Officer

(Manhattan, Kan. - Wednesday, August 14, 2024) -&nbsp;It’s a girl! Sunset Zoo announced that red panda parents, Loofah and Simone, gave birth to a cub on July 14th. Staff made the difficult decision to hand-rear the cub after Simone did not show proper maternal care. Now under the close monitoring of zookeeper staff, the cub is thriving.

“The first 30 days of a red panda cub's life are critical, and our staff are tending to the cub's needs around the clock to ensure the best care possible,” said Head Keeper, Caitlin Kenney. “The good news is, this little girl is a fighter. She has&nbsp;already overcome several obstacles and she continues to grow and flourish.”

“A huge thank you to our zookeeper staff and veterinary team for their exceptional dedication to nurturing our red panda cub, which we have named Sunisa, Suni for short” says Zoo Director Scott Shoemaker. “Suni reminds us of the important role Sunset Zoo plays in conservation. Protecting endangered species like the red panda is essential for maintaining biodiversity and educating our community about the importance of wildlife preservation.”

Zookeeper staff chose the name Suni as an ode to Olympic gymnast Sunisa Lee. In Cambodian, Sunisa means “freedom” and in Thai means “beautiful, or good night.” It’s particularly fitting with Simone as her mother’s name. Cub Suni also has a fun middle name, Floofah, to fit with her father Loofah and uncle Doofah.

Suni is currently behind the scenes and not viewable to the public at this time.

Red pandas, native to the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China, are classified as “endangered” by the IUCN Red List, meaning they are at significant risk for extinction in their native ranges in the near future. With wild populations decreasing and their native habitat facing increasing threats, including deforestation and climate change, the red pandas found at Sunset Zoo and at accredited institutions around the world serve as a genetic safety net against possible extinction in the wild.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723649658767.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Melissa Kirkwood, Marketing / Development OfficerSunset Zoo(Manhattan, Kan. - Wednesday, August 14, 2024) -&nbsp;It’s a girl! Sunset Zoo announced that red panda parents, Loofah and Simone, gave birth to a cub on July 14th. Staff made the difficult decision to hand-rear the cub after Simone did not show proper maternal care. Now under the close monitoring of zookeeper staff, the cub is thriving.“The first 30 days of a red panda cub's life are critical, and our staff are tending to the cub's needs around the clock to ensure the best care possible,” said Head Keeper, Caitlin Kenney. “The good news is, this little girl is a fighter. She has&nbsp;already overcome several obstacles and she continues to grow and flourish.”“A huge thank you to our zookeeper staff and veterinary team for their exceptional dedication to nurturing our red panda cub, which we have named Sunisa, Suni for short” says Zoo Director Scott Shoemaker. “Suni reminds us of the important role Sunset Zoo plays in conservation. Protecting endangered species like the red panda is essential for maintaining biodiversity and educating our community about the importance of wildlife preservation.”Zookeeper staff chose the name Suni as an ode to Olympic gymnast Sunisa Lee. In Cambodian, Sunisa means “freedom” and in Thai means “beautiful, or good night.” It’s particularly fitting with Simone as her mother’s name. Cub Suni also has a fun middle name, Floofah, to fit with her father Loofah and uncle Doofah.Suni is currently behind the scenes and not viewable to the public at this time.Red pandas, native to the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China, are classified as “endangered” by the IUCN Red List, meaning they are at significant risk for extinction in their native ranges in the near future. With wild populations decreasing and their native habitat facing increasing threats, including deforestation and climate change, the red pandas found at Sunset Zoo and at accredited institutions around the world serve as a genetic safety net against possible extinction in the wild.

Endangered Red Panda Cub Born at Sunset Zoo

The new school year began Wednesday at Saint Francis Xavier Catholic School.

The new school year began Wednesday at Saint Francis Xavier Catholic School.( Photos - Saint X )<figure>
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First day of classes at Saint Francis Xavier Catholic School

JC Breakfast Optimist Club&nbsp;Secretary/Programs Chairperson 

The Lawrence Long Memorial Scholarship was established to honor Lawrence Long, who was a long-time member of the JC Breakfast Optimist Club.

 This year's winner is Charly Goodwin. Charly is a 2024 graduate of Junction City High School  Charly will attend Manhattan Area Vo-Tech School with a focus on commercial and residential HVAC systems.  Charly is the daughter of Mike and Leslie Goodwin of Milford.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723648317752.jpeg" alt="Pictured:&nbsp; Charly Goodwin, (center); Leslie Goodwin (far left) and Mike Goodwin (far right.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Pictured:&nbsp; Charly Goodwin, (center); Leslie Goodwin (far left) and Mike Goodwin (far right.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dr. Ferrell MillerJC Breakfast Optimist Club&nbsp;Secretary/Programs Chairperson The Lawrence Long Memorial Scholarship was established to honor Lawrence Long, who was a long-time member of the JC Breakfast Optimist Club. This year's winner is Charly Goodwin. Charly is a 2024 graduate of Junction City High School Charly will attend Manhattan Area Vo-Tech School with a focus on commercial and residential HVAC systems. Charly is the daughter of Mike and Leslie Goodwin of Milford.&nbsp;

Lawrence Long Memorial Scholarship Winner

Kiera Rice, Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked, arrested 08/13

Alexis Villa, Failure to appear, arrested 08/13

Micah McCracken, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, arrested 08/13

Anthony Hayes, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, arrested 08/13

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/2024/8/1723646066742.jpeg" alt="Williams Tubbs, Theft by deception, arrested 08/13" />
 <figcaption>Williams Tubbs, Theft by deception, arrested 08/13</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723646100902.jpeg" alt="Erica Lawson, Failure to appear, arrested 08/13" />
 <figcaption>Erica Lawson, Failure to appear, arrested 08/13</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723646144129.jpeg" alt="Davion Rhodes, Criminal threat, Cause terror, evacuation or disruption, Aggravated assault, arrested 08/13" />
 <figcaption>Davion Rhodes, Criminal threat, Cause terror, evacuation or disruption, Aggravated assault, arrested 08/13</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723646201836.jpeg" alt="Ingrid Gomez, Fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, Drivers license without valid DL, arrested 08/14" />
 <figcaption>Ingrid Gomez, Fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, Drivers license without valid DL, arrested 08/14</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Kiera Rice, Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked, arrested 08/13Alexis Villa, Failure to appear, arrested 08/13Micah McCracken, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, arrested 08/13Anthony Hayes, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, arrested 08/13Recent 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 Aug. 14

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating alleged fraud in Riley County.

Just before 7p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report of fraud in the 300 block of Stockdale Drive in Randolph, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The City of Randolph reported an unknown suspect posed as a consulting group and defrauded the City. 

Total loss associated with this report is $40,000. 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 alleged fraud in Riley County.Just before 7p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report of fraud in the 300 block of Stockdale Drive in Randolph, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The City of Randolph reported an unknown suspect posed as a consulting group and defrauded the City. Total loss associated with this report is $40,000. 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: City of Randolph lost $40,000 in alleged fraud scheme

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas says don't drive distracted, especially while kids are figuring out their new school routine.

"You need to have your your total focus on the road, obviously, with kids walking to school, biking to school, buses out and about," Steward said. "It's essential for drivers to stay focused on the road and be extra cautious. So put your phone down. Don't be looking at your phone while you're heading to take your kids to school or headed into the school zone."

On the way home is when kids really aren't paying attention.

"Nearly one fifth of traffic fatalities of children below the age of 15 or school age pedestrians are killed between the hours of three and four p.m. than any other time of day," Steward said. "So that just reiterates the importance of staying focused, not only that after school period, but also before school."

In addition, slow down in school zones, so that if something does happen, everyone is safer.

"Triple A Foundation for Traffic Safety conducted some research and found that a pedestrian struck by a vehicle traveling twenty five miles per hour is nearly two thirds less likely to be killed compared to a pedestrian struck by a vehicle going thirty five miles an hour," Steward said. "That 10 mile an hour reduction can can play a huge difference for somebody who happens to be struck by a vehicle."

Give yourself extra time to get where you are going for the first couple of weeks, so that new drivers and parents new to the school buildings can find their way.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723558396693.jpg" alt="" />
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 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas says don't drive distracted, especially while kids are figuring out their new school routine."You need to have your your total focus on the road, obviously, with kids walking to school, biking to school, buses out and about," Steward said. "It's essential for drivers to stay focused on the road and be extra cautious. So put your phone down. Don't be looking at your phone while you're heading to take your kids to school or headed into the school zone."On the way home is when kids really aren't paying attention."Nearly one fifth of traffic fatalities of children below the age of 15 or school age pedestrians are killed between the hours of three and four p.m. than any other time of day," Steward said. "So that just reiterates the importance of staying focused, not only that after school period, but also before school."In addition, slow down in school zones, so that if something does happen, everyone is safer."Triple A Foundation for Traffic Safety conducted some research and found that a pedestrian struck by a vehicle traveling twenty five miles per hour is nearly two thirds less likely to be killed compared to a pedestrian struck by a vehicle going thirty five miles an hour," Steward said. "That 10 mile an hour reduction can can play a huge difference for somebody who happens to be struck by a vehicle."Give yourself extra time to get where you are going for the first couple of weeks, so that new drivers and parents new to the school buildings can find their way.

Focus key while driving in school zones

&nbsp; MANHATTAN — Virologists in Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Veterinary Medicine</a>&nbsp;will lead a new round of pioneering research about Middle East respiratory syndrome, or MERS, and related bat coronaviruses with pandemic potential.

Kyeong-Ok "KC" Chang, professor of virology, and Yunjeong Kim, associate professor of diagnostic medicine and pathobiology, are continuing a research collaboration begun in 2018 with William C. Groutas, a medicinal chemist at Wichita State University, and Stanley Perlman, a virologist at the University of Iowa. Their project, "Small Molecule Protease Inhibitors against MERS-CoV and Coronaviruses of Pandemic Potential," has been approved for a five-year, $3.6 million grant from the National Institutes of Health-National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

"MERS coronavirus emerged suddenly in 2012 as the cause of severe respiratory illness in humans," Chang said. "Despite the high mortality rate and the significant potential for a public health emergency, there are no FDA-approved vaccines or antiviral drugs for MERS. Consequently, there is an urgent and unmet need for the development of small-molecule drugs to control MERS coronavirus infection."

Chang said their work has found a promising compound that can help serve as a launching pad for the development of orally bioavailable MERS-CoV-specific antivirals. The funding will also allow for the recruitment of personnel at K-State and Wichita State and help retain existing team members who were recruited with the original grant in 2018.

Division of Communications and Marketing&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723576496798.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>By Joe Montgomery&nbsp; MANHATTAN — Virologists in Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Veterinary Medicine</a>&nbsp;will lead a new round of pioneering research about Middle East respiratory syndrome, or MERS, and related bat coronaviruses with pandemic potential.Kyeong-Ok "KC" Chang, professor of virology, and Yunjeong Kim, associate professor of diagnostic medicine and pathobiology, are continuing a research collaboration begun in 2018 with William C. Groutas, a medicinal chemist at Wichita State University, and Stanley Perlman, a virologist at the University of Iowa. Their project, "Small Molecule Protease Inhibitors against MERS-CoV and Coronaviruses of Pandemic Potential," has been approved for a five-year, $3.6 million grant from the National Institutes of Health-National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases"MERS coronavirus emerged suddenly in 2012 as the cause of severe respiratory illness in humans," Chang said. "Despite the high mortality rate and the significant potential for a public health emergency, there are no FDA-approved vaccines or antiviral drugs for MERS. Consequently, there is an urgent and unmet need for the development of small-molecule drugs to control MERS coronavirus infection."Chang said their work has found a promising compound that can help serve as a launching pad for the development of orally bioavailable MERS-CoV-specific antivirals. The funding will also allow for the recruitment of personnel at K-State and Wichita State and help retain existing team members who were recruited with the original grant in 2018.Division of Communications and Marketing&nbsp;

K-State researchers continue battling MERS and related bat coronaviruses of pandemic potential

Pawnee Mental Health has added Lauri Goheen, LMSW, to their team as a new mental health therapist.

Goheen holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Kansas and was also part of the Integrated Health Scholars Program. She completed her internship at Salina Family Health Care as a behavioral intern, gaining experience in integrating mental and physical health care.

As a licensed master social worker, she is equipped to treat various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, grief, and childhood emotional and behavioral disorders.

<a></a>In her new role at Pawnee Mental Health, Goheen will provide therapy to individuals and families, develop treatment plans, and work closely with the Pawnee team to support the mental health needs of the community. She will also lead several new initiatives to expand outreach and support services.

Goheen is passionate about making a positive impact in the mental health field. Her dedication to continuous learning and client care makes her an excellent fit for Pawnee Mental Health. She is committed to providing empathetic and effective treatment to her clients.

We are thrilled to welcome Lauri to our team,” said Myra Pfeifer, Mental Health Supervisor. “Her passion for helping others and her dedication to continuous learning make her a valuable addition. We are confident that her expertise and compassionate approach will greatly benefit our clients.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723575689822.jpeg" alt="Lauri Goheen" />
 <figcaption>Lauri Goheen</figcaption>
 </figure>By Diane Hinrichs - ToburenPawnee Mental Health has added Lauri Goheen, LMSW, to their team as a new mental health therapist.Goheen holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Kansas and was also part of the Integrated Health Scholars Program. She completed her internship at Salina Family Health Care as a behavioral intern, gaining experience in integrating mental and physical health care.As a licensed master social worker, she is equipped to treat various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, grief, and childhood emotional and behavioral disorders.<a></a>In her new role at Pawnee Mental Health, Goheen will provide therapy to individuals and families, develop treatment plans, and work closely with the Pawnee team to support the mental health needs of the community. She will also lead several new initiatives to expand outreach and support services.Goheen is passionate about making a positive impact in the mental health field. Her dedication to continuous learning and client care makes her an excellent fit for Pawnee Mental Health. She is committed to providing empathetic and effective treatment to her clients.We are thrilled to welcome Lauri to our team,” said Myra Pfeifer, Mental Health Supervisor. “Her passion for helping others and her dedication to continuous learning make her a valuable addition. We are confident that her expertise and compassionate approach will greatly benefit our clients.”

Pawnee Mental Health Welcomes Lauri Goheen, Mental Health Therapist   

K-9 Barney is retiring from active duty with the Junction City Police Department.&nbsp; Barney came from Code 2 K-9 Services in Omaha, Nebraska, where he was born.&nbsp; Barney was born Oct. 3,2011 and has served the citizens of Junction City for approximately 11 years.&nbsp; He spent his entire career with his handler, Officer Nick Blake.&nbsp; Barney will turn 13 years of age on Halloween of this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police said that Barney has received multiple awards in his career from the Heart of America Police Dog Association which include numerous narcotics cases of the year awards, detector dog awards, and a patrol dog award.&nbsp; Barney has been deployed hundreds of times in his career for drug sniffs, tracks, search warrants, school sniffs, barricaded subjects, pursuits, public demonstrations, and school classroom visits.&nbsp; Barney is responsible for getting thousands of pounds of marijuana, hundreds of pounds of cocaine, hundreds of pounds of heroin, hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and millions of dollars of drug money off the streets.&nbsp; These seizures have resulted in many years of prison time for the offenders.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

One of our favorite memories is when Barney located a suspect hiding in a field as a backup K-9.&nbsp; Barney was waiting on the other side of a tree line while another K-9 unit started to track the suspect from his last known location.&nbsp; While waiting, Barney pulled his handler to a nearby thicket where the suspect was found hiding.&nbsp; The suspect was taken into custody without further incident.&nbsp;

Barney will now live the rest of his life at home with Officer Blake and his family.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There will be a retirement reception Sept. 6 from 2-3 p.m. at the Junction City Police Department Training Room.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723573686453.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>JCPD releaseK-9 Barney is retiring from active duty with the Junction City Police Department.&nbsp; Barney came from Code 2 K-9 Services in Omaha, Nebraska, where he was born.&nbsp; Barney was born Oct. 3,2011 and has served the citizens of Junction City for approximately 11 years.&nbsp; He spent his entire career with his handler, Officer Nick Blake.&nbsp; Barney will turn 13 years of age on Halloween of this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Police said that Barney has received multiple awards in his career from the Heart of America Police Dog Association which include numerous narcotics cases of the year awards, detector dog awards, and a patrol dog award.&nbsp; Barney has been deployed hundreds of times in his career for drug sniffs, tracks, search warrants, school sniffs, barricaded subjects, pursuits, public demonstrations, and school classroom visits.&nbsp; Barney is responsible for getting thousands of pounds of marijuana, hundreds of pounds of cocaine, hundreds of pounds of heroin, hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and millions of dollars of drug money off the streets.&nbsp; These seizures have resulted in many years of prison time for the offenders.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;One of our favorite memories is when Barney located a suspect hiding in a field as a backup K-9.&nbsp; Barney was waiting on the other side of a tree line while another K-9 unit started to track the suspect from his last known location.&nbsp; While waiting, Barney pulled his handler to a nearby thicket where the suspect was found hiding.&nbsp; The suspect was taken into custody without further incident.&nbsp;Barney will now live the rest of his life at home with Officer Blake and his family.&nbsp;&nbsp;There will be a retirement reception Sept. 6 from 2-3 p.m. at the Junction City Police Department Training Room.

K9 Barney is retiring

Tuesday a special audit board was hired to complete the audit of the 2024 August Primary Election in Geary County.

County Clerk Courtney Gilbert reported that the audit board consisted of bi-partisan, trained election board workers. She announced that the following races were audited and the board found zero discrepancies.

--US Representative District 2, Ward 1 Precinct 5 H65&nbsp;

--House of Representatives District 65, Ward 1 Precinct 5&nbsp;H65

--Geary County Commissioner District 3 – Grandview Plaza

Tuesday a special audit board was hired to complete the audit of the 2024 August Primary Election in Geary County.County Clerk Courtney Gilbert reported that the audit board consisted of bi-partisan, trained election board workers. She announced that the following races were audited and the board found zero discrepancies.--US Representative District 2, Ward 1 Precinct 5 H65&nbsp;--House of Representatives District 65, Ward 1 Precinct 5&nbsp;H65--Geary County Commissioner District 3 – Grandview Plaza

Audit completed for August Primary Election

The Luck of the Irish Toy Show is scheduled during the 115th annual Chapman Labor Day Celebration on Monday Sept. 2 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.&nbsp;

The Toy Show will be held in the Chapman High School multi-purpose room.

The Luck of the Irish Toy Show is scheduled during the 115th annual Chapman Labor Day Celebration on Monday Sept. 2 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.&nbsp;The Toy Show will be held in the Chapman High School multi-purpose room.

Luck of the Irish Toy Show

<a>Beginning Monday, Aug. 19, the Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin a mill and overlay on about 15 miles of U.S. 77 in Geary, Morris, and Dickinson counties.</a>

Resurfacing on U.S. 77 will occur from the U.S. 77/K-209 junction and continue north to 1 mile south of the U.S. 77/I-70 junction. (See attached map.)

Work will also include a small section of shoulder widening on U.S. 77, just south of Lyons Creek bridge.

During construction, a pilot car will be used to direct one-lane of traffic through the work zone at a reduced speed. Drivers should be prepared for a delay of up to 15 minutes and plan extra time in their travel schedules.

<a>Beginning Monday, Aug. 19, the Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin a mill and overlay on about 15 miles of U.S. 77 in Geary, Morris, and Dickinson counties.</a>Resurfacing on U.S. 77 will occur from the U.S. 77/K-209 junction and continue north to 1 mile south of the U.S. 77/I-70 junction. (See attached map.)Work will also include a small section of shoulder widening on U.S. 77, just south of Lyons Creek bridge.During construction, a pilot car will be used to direct one-lane of traffic through the work zone at a reduced speed. Drivers should be prepared for a delay of up to 15 minutes and plan extra time in their travel schedules.

Resurfacing on U.S. 77 to begin Monday

With July historically being our hottest month of the year, the month brought an unexpected change in the trends with below normal temperatures, but unfortunately also below normal precipitation.&nbsp;The average daily high for July was 88.7, 1 degree below normal. The average overnight low was 67.7, 0.8 degree below normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 78.2, 0.9 degree below normal. 

The highest temperature for the month was the high of 101 on the 15th. This was the only temperature of 100 or above for the month. The lowest temperature for the month was the morning low of 61 on the 6th. The high of 73 on the 20th tied the record low high temperature for that date. The record was originally set in 1992. The overnight low of 81 on the morning of the 29th set a new record high low temperature for that date. The old record was 79 set in 1955. The monthly mean temperature of 78.2 is the coolest we’ve seen since 2019 and was a welcome change of pace. 

The coldest July on record is a tie between 1960 and 1967 when we had a monthly mean temperature of 73.8. The hottest July on record was the brutal summer of 1954 when we had a monthly mean temperature of 87 degrees. That July had 19 days of temperatures of 100 or above and three consecutive days with an afternoon high of 114! July of 2012 came close to that record with a monthly mean high of 86.1 and also 19 days of 100 or higher daily high temperatures. Fortunately, daily highs “only” hit 106 in 2012!

While July rainfall fell short of average precipitation it was spread out well enough across the month to keep the region from going into serious drought conditions. The July rainfall of 3.20 inches was short of the long-term average of 4.14 inches. Year to date we are still running ahead of average. Normal year to date through the end of July is 21.10 inches. We have received 22.25 inches for that seven-month span, although some parts of the county have seen significantly more! 

The driest July on record was in 1983 when a mere 0.04 inches was all that the rain gauges could collect. While many people feel that the wettest July was the flood year of 1951 the wettest July was in fact the year before, 1950, with a total of 13.65 inches of rain. July 1951 had 12.43 inches and is actually in third place with 1948 claiming second place at 12.99 inches. Rounding out the top five wettest Julys we have 1992 in fourth place at 12.32 inches and 1993, another flood year, with 11.53 inches. I find it interesting that the two big flood years, 1951 and 1993, were both preceded with wetter Julys in the previous year.

Days slowly start to get shorter in late June, following the summer solstice. Temperatures continue to rise until mid-July however and then start to slowly decline. August is reluctant to give much relief though with daily average highs starting the month at 89 and only dropping to 87 by the month’s end. Overnight lows are slowly dropping as well with expected low temperatures of 68 on the 1st and 65 on the 31st. The big decline in temperatures doesn’t really happen until September and October. 

Average rainfall for August is up slightly from July with long term average of 4.55 inches. May through August are our wettest months of the year with 56% of the annual total expected to occur in those four months. If you add in April you are up to almost two thirds (65%) of our annual expected rainfall.

Chuck Otte cotte@ksu.eduCounty Extension Agent, RetiredWith July historically being our hottest month of the year, the month brought an unexpected change in the trends with below normal temperatures, but unfortunately also below normal precipitation.&nbsp;The average daily high for July was 88.7, 1 degree below normal. The average overnight low was 67.7, 0.8 degree below normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 78.2, 0.9 degree below normal. The highest temperature for the month was the high of 101 on the 15th. This was the only temperature of 100 or above for the month. The lowest temperature for the month was the morning low of 61 on the 6th. The high of 73 on the 20th tied the record low high temperature for that date. The record was originally set in 1992. The overnight low of 81 on the morning of the 29th set a new record high low temperature for that date. The old record was 79 set in 1955. The monthly mean temperature of 78.2 is the coolest we’ve seen since 2019 and was a welcome change of pace. The coldest July on record is a tie between 1960 and 1967 when we had a monthly mean temperature of 73.8. The hottest July on record was the brutal summer of 1954 when we had a monthly mean temperature of 87 degrees. That July had 19 days of temperatures of 100 or above and three consecutive days with an afternoon high of 114! July of 2012 came close to that record with a monthly mean high of 86.1 and also 19 days of 100 or higher daily high temperatures. Fortunately, daily highs “only” hit 106 in 2012!While July rainfall fell short of average precipitation it was spread out well enough across the month to keep the region from going into serious drought conditions. The July rainfall of 3.20 inches was short of the long-term average of 4.14 inches. Year to date we are still running ahead of average. Normal year to date through the end of July is 21.10 inches. We have received 22.25 inches for that seven-month span, although some parts of the county have seen significantly more! The driest July on record was in 1983 when a mere 0.04 inches was all that the rain gauges could collect. While many people feel that the wettest July was the flood year of 1951 the wettest July was in fact the year before, 1950, with a total of 13.65 inches of rain. July 1951 had 12.43 inches and is actually in third place with 1948 claiming second place at 12.99 inches. Rounding out the top five wettest Julys we have 1992 in fourth place at 12.32 inches and 1993, another flood year, with 11.53 inches. I find it interesting that the two big flood years, 1951 and 1993, were both preceded with wetter Julys in the previous year.Days slowly start to get shorter in late June, following the summer solstice. Temperatures continue to rise until mid-July however and then start to slowly decline. August is reluctant to give much relief though with daily average highs starting the month at 89 and only dropping to 87 by the month’s end. Overnight lows are slowly dropping as well with expected low temperatures of 68 on the 1st and 65 on the 31st. The big decline in temperatures doesn’t really happen until September and October. Average rainfall for August is up slightly from July with long term average of 4.55 inches. May through August are our wettest months of the year with 56% of the annual total expected to occur in those four months. If you add in April you are up to almost two thirds (65%) of our annual expected rainfall.

July 2024 Weather Summary

Jonathan Brown, Failure to appear, arrested 08/09

Christopher Beard, Criminal deprivation of property, Domestic battery, arrested 08/09

Mathew Burdine, Outside warrant, arrested 08/12

Cody Dodge, Arrest by LEO, Warrant arrest, arrested 08/12

Rogello Reyes-Feliciano, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 08/12

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/2024/8/1723557930150.jpeg" alt="Brandon Clark, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license; Theft &lt; $1,500, Pocket picking, arrested 08/08" />
 <figcaption>Brandon Clark, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license; Theft &lt; $1,500, Pocket picking, arrested 08/08</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723558001673.jpeg" alt="Chad Sharpe, Possession of marijuana, Possession of controlled substance, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body,&nbsp;Theft &lt; $1,500, Pocket picking, arrested 08/08" />
 <figcaption>Chad Sharpe, Possession of marijuana, Possession of controlled substance, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body,&nbsp;Theft &lt; $1,500, Pocket picking, arrested 08/08</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723558084909.jpeg" alt="Jose Bonilla, Domestic battery, arrested 08/08" />
 <figcaption>Jose Bonilla, Domestic battery, arrested 08/08</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723558113006.jpeg" alt="William Benner,&nbsp;Theft &lt; $1,500, Pocket picking, arrested 08/08" />
 <figcaption>William Benner,&nbsp;Theft &lt; $1,500, Pocket picking, arrested 08/08</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723558145681.jpeg" alt="Richard Gardenhire, Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Distribute or possess with intent to distribute drug paraphernalia for illegal use, Distribute substance in KSA 65-4105(H): 450 grams- &lt; 30 kilograms, arrested 08/09" />
 <figcaption>Richard Gardenhire, Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Distribute or possess with intent to distribute drug paraphernalia for illegal use, Distribute substance in KSA 65-4105(H): 450 grams- &lt; 30 kilograms, arrested 08/09</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723558273119.jpeg" alt="Eugene Hamilton,&nbsp;Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Distribute or possess with intent to distribute drug paraphernalia for illegal use, Distribute Marijuana: 450 grams- &lt; 30 kilograms, arrested 08/09" />
 <figcaption>Eugene Hamilton,&nbsp;Taxation; Drugs; No drug tax stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Distribute or possess with intent to distribute drug paraphernalia for illegal use, Distribute Marijuana: 450 grams- &lt; 30 kilograms, arrested 08/09</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723559340627.jpeg" alt="Sade Davis, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license; DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 08/10" />
 <figcaption>Sade Davis, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license; DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 08/10</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723559424145.jpeg" alt="Yasmin Barrera-Roman, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 08/10" />
 <figcaption>Yasmin Barrera-Roman, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 08/10</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723559474899.jpeg" alt="Justin Kendrick, Outside warrant, Duty of governor to arrest person charged who has fled from justice (Two counts), arrested 08/10" />
 <figcaption>Justin Kendrick, Outside warrant, Duty of governor to arrest person charged who has fled from justice (Two counts), arrested 08/10</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723559535407.jpeg" alt="Joshua Kile, Traffic contraband into correctional facility, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of marijuana (Two or more prior convictions), arrested 08/10" />
 <figcaption>Joshua Kile, Traffic contraband into correctional facility, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of marijuana (Two or more prior convictions), arrested 08/10</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723559651358.jpeg" alt="Patrick Washam, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 08/11" />
 <figcaption>Patrick Washam, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 08/11</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723559714088.jpeg" alt="Carissa Ernst, Domestic battery, arrested 08/11" />
 <figcaption>Carissa Ernst, Domestic battery, arrested 08/11</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723559756714.jpeg" alt="Tiaunna Goode, Failure to appear; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana,&nbsp;Traffic contraband into correctional facility, arrested 08/11" />
 <figcaption>Tiaunna Goode, Failure to appear; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana,&nbsp;Traffic contraband into correctional facility, arrested 08/11</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723559856625.jpeg" alt="Joel Fernandez, Failure to appear, arrested 08/12" />
 <figcaption>Joel Fernandez, Failure to appear, arrested 08/12</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723559902483.jpeg" alt="Shaun Felton, Criminal deprivation of property, Intimidation of a witness; Assault, Unlawful restraint, Domestic battery, arrested 08/12" />
 <figcaption>Shaun Felton, Criminal deprivation of property, Intimidation of a witness; Assault, Unlawful restraint, Domestic battery, arrested 08/12</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723559971856.jpeg" alt="Jesse Rausin, Criminal threat, Cause terror, evacuation or disruption, Criminal deprivation of property, Domestic battery, Knowing rude physical contact with family member or dating relationship, arrested 08/12" />
 <figcaption>Jesse Rausin, Criminal threat, Cause terror, evacuation or disruption, Criminal deprivation of property, Domestic battery, Knowing rude physical contact with family member or dating relationship, arrested 08/12</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723560084837.jpeg" alt="Ashley Hatcher, Outside warrant, arrested 08/12" />
 <figcaption>Ashley Hatcher, Outside warrant, arrested 08/12</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723560129055.jpeg" alt="Joseph Peralta, Criminal trespass, arrested 08/12" />
 <figcaption>Joseph Peralta, Criminal trespass, arrested 08/12</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Jonathan Brown, Failure to appear, arrested 08/09Christopher Beard, Criminal deprivation of property, Domestic battery, arrested 08/09Mathew Burdine, Outside warrant, arrested 08/12Cody Dodge, Arrest by LEO, Warrant arrest, arrested 08/12Rogello Reyes-Feliciano, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 08/12Recent 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 Aug. 8-13

<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/about/news/news-archive/rural-populations-medicaid-expansion.html">UMKC News Service</a>

KANSAS CITY — While some studies have found that Medicaid expansion reduces overall mortality rates in states where it has been adopted, a recent study published in the Journal of Rural Health looks more closely at mortality rates in specific populations. This study points to complex factors that may affect mortality differently depending on race, ethnicity, sex and geography.

Looking across the nation using data from states that have expanded Medicaid with federal money, the study indicates many different factors at play.

“The primary takeaway is that Medicaid expansion is unevenly impacting all-cause mortality nationwide,” said J. Tom Mueller, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Population Health at the University of Kansas Medical Center and primary author of the study. “Rural populations are seeing clear negative impacts, and urban populations are seeing only some benefits.”

Mueller is a rural sociologist and demographer focused on inequality, health and well-being in rural America. He focuses on issues of social policy and the environment, attempting to understand why some places have persistently lower health and well-being than others, and what can be done to change that for the better. He came to KU Medical Center from the University of Oklahoma in 2023.

The purpose of this study was to drill down into data to see how different groups fared when their state expanded Medicaid. Mueller noted that these impacts were uneven across ethnic and racial groups, with rural white populations seeing the clearest negative impacts and urban Black populations seeing the greatest evidence of health improvement.

The study showed that Medicaid expansion led to a reduction in all-cause age-adjusted mortality for urban Black populations, but not rural Black populations. Urban white populations experienced mixed effects depending on how many years had passed since Medicaid expansion. Latino populations saw no appreciable impact. While no effect was observed for rural Black and Latino populations, rural white all-cause age-adjusted mortality unexpectedly increased due to Medicaid expansion. These effects reduced rural- and urban-specific mortality disparities among Black and white populations but did not shrink the rural-urban mortality gap.

“To be clear, this does not mean expanding Medicaid is foolhardy or misguided — there is a lot of evidence that it has led to a great number of health improvements nationwide,” Mueller said. “What this means is that the rural health care system, which is already struggling and has long been facing issues of funding, resources and personnel, is not providing rural Americans on Medicaid with the safe and effective health care they need.”

Mueller and his research colleagues from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Florida State University were surprised by the outcome of the study, but Mueller believes it points toward a complex range of issues facing rural Americans.

“Opioid prescribing is higher in rural areas and among Medicaid patients, and chronic pain is far more common in these areas,” Mueller said. “Our ongoing follow-up research suggests that drug overdoses are driving the increase in all-cause mortality, so the picture is starting to come together, but we were neither hoping nor expecting to find this negative outcome for rural Americans.”

Mueller noted that additional research of the complex issues is underway by his team: “We are already studying the impact of Medicaid by cause of death and age group to identify what is driving the increase in all-cause mortality.” He pointed out that the increase in mortality seems largely due to drug overdoses, although there may be some correlations to diseases known to impact rural areas, such as chronic respiratory disease, heart disease and stroke. Another issue affecting rural mortality is the lack of access to health care providers, including a shortage of those who accept Medicaid. Mueller and his research colleagues already are studying these shortages.

“Rural areas have lost many health care services, and many doctors either don’t accept Medicaid at all, or are unwilling to accept new patients. In a rural area with few substitutes, if your local clinic won’t accept Medicaid, you could have a truly difficult time finding care,” Mueller said.

“It is imperative that resources and attention be directed to rural areas to ensure that Medicaid expansion actually results in patients seeing doctors and receiving effective and safe care.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665405753233.png" alt="Pixabay photo" />
 <figcaption>Pixabay photo</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kumc.edu/about/news/news-archive/rural-populations-medicaid-expansion.html">UMKC News Service</a>KANSAS CITY — While some studies have found that Medicaid expansion reduces overall mortality rates in states where it has been adopted, a recent study published in the Journal of Rural Health looks more closely at mortality rates in specific populations. This study points to complex factors that may affect mortality differently depending on race, ethnicity, sex and geography.Looking across the nation using data from states that have expanded Medicaid with federal money, the study indicates many different factors at play.“The primary takeaway is that Medicaid expansion is unevenly impacting all-cause mortality nationwide,” said J. Tom Mueller, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Population Health at the University of Kansas Medical Center and primary author of the study. “Rural populations are seeing clear negative impacts, and urban populations are seeing only some benefits.”<figure>
 <img src="https://www.kumc.edu/images/news/mueller-tom-preferred.jpg" alt="J.&nbsp;Tom Mueller, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Population Health at KU Medical Center. Photo courtesy KU" />
 <figcaption>J.&nbsp;Tom Mueller, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Population Health at KU Medical Center. Photo courtesy KU</figcaption>
 </figure>Mueller is a rural sociologist and demographer focused on inequality, health and well-being in rural America. He focuses on issues of social policy and the environment, attempting to understand why some places have persistently lower health and well-being than others, and what can be done to change that for the better. He came to KU Medical Center from the University of Oklahoma in 2023.The purpose of this study was to drill down into data to see how different groups fared when their state expanded Medicaid. Mueller noted that these impacts were uneven across ethnic and racial groups, with rural white populations seeing the clearest negative impacts and urban Black populations seeing the greatest evidence of health improvement.The study showed that Medicaid expansion led to a reduction in all-cause age-adjusted mortality for urban Black populations, but not rural Black populations. Urban white populations experienced mixed effects depending on how many years had passed since Medicaid expansion. Latino populations saw no appreciable impact. While no effect was observed for rural Black and Latino populations, rural white all-cause age-adjusted mortality unexpectedly increased due to Medicaid expansion. These effects reduced rural- and urban-specific mortality disparities among Black and white populations but did not shrink the rural-urban mortality gap.“To be clear, this does not mean expanding Medicaid is foolhardy or misguided — there is a lot of evidence that it has led to a great number of health improvements nationwide,” Mueller said. “What this means is that the rural health care system, which is already struggling and has long been facing issues of funding, resources and personnel, is not providing rural Americans on Medicaid with the safe and effective health care they need.”Mueller and his research colleagues from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Florida State University were surprised by the outcome of the study, but Mueller believes it points toward a complex range of issues facing rural Americans.“Opioid prescribing is higher in rural areas and among Medicaid patients, and chronic pain is far more common in these areas,” Mueller said. “Our ongoing follow-up research suggests that drug overdoses are driving the increase in all-cause mortality, so the picture is starting to come together, but we were neither hoping nor expecting to find this negative outcome for rural Americans.”Mueller noted that additional research of the complex issues is underway by his team: “We are already studying the impact of Medicaid by cause of death and age group to identify what is driving the increase in all-cause mortality.” He pointed out that the increase in mortality seems largely due to drug overdoses, although there may be some correlations to diseases known to impact rural areas, such as chronic respiratory disease, heart disease and stroke. Another issue affecting rural mortality is the lack of access to health care providers, including a shortage of those who accept Medicaid. Mueller and his research colleagues already are studying these shortages.“Rural areas have lost many health care services, and many doctors either don’t accept Medicaid at all, or are unwilling to accept new patients. In a rural area with few substitutes, if your local clinic won’t accept Medicaid, you could have a truly difficult time finding care,” Mueller said.“It is imperative that resources and attention be directed to rural areas to ensure that Medicaid expansion actually results in patients seeing doctors and receiving effective and safe care.”

KU study: Rural populations may experience uneven effects of Medicaid expansion 

Many Geary students returned to the classroom Monday for a new school year. All students in 1st through 12th grade will attend classes for a full day on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Thursday Aug. 15th&nbsp;First Day of School for Early Childhood and Kindergarten students.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

( Photos provided by&nbsp; Geary USD 475 )

By Dewey TerrillJC PostMany Geary students returned to the classroom Monday for a new school year. All students in 1st through 12th grade will attend classes for a full day on Tuesday.&nbsp;Thursday Aug. 15th&nbsp;First Day of School for Early Childhood and Kindergarten students.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;( Photos provided by&nbsp; Geary USD 475 )<figure>
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New school year begins in Geary USD 475

Geary County Commissioners have agreed to sell an approximately three-acre piece of property just off of J-Hill Road for $12,000 to Calvin Conery.

The property, which consists of grass area,&nbsp; was sold at auction on Monday.

Geary County Commissioners have agreed to sell an approximately three-acre piece of property just off of J-Hill Road for $12,000 to Calvin Conery.The property, which consists of grass area,&nbsp; was sold at auction on Monday.

County agrees to sell a small piece of property

The Dorothy Bramlage Public Library's Annual Touch a Truck event is Saturday October 19th. If you have a special vehicle (truck) you would be willing to bring out, please call or email them. This is an opportunity for families to learn about and enjoy seeing all the different trucks in the community.

Participants need to arrive with vehicles at 9am for set up. Event will start at 10am. If you have a friend with a special vehicle who would also like to participate please have them reach out

The Dorothy Bramlage Public Library's Annual Touch a Truck event is Saturday October 19th. If you have a special vehicle (truck) you would be willing to bring out, please call or email them. This is an opportunity for families to learn about and enjoy seeing all the different trucks in the community.Participants need to arrive with vehicles at 9am for set up. Event will start at 10am. If you have a friend with a special vehicle who would also like to participate please have them reach out

You can participate in Touch a Truck

Classes for the 2024-2025 school year at Saint Xavier School in Junction City begin Wednesday. Classes for students are scheduled from 8:20 a.m. to 3:25 p.m.

Classes for the 2024-2025 school year at Saint Xavier School in Junction City begin Wednesday. Classes for students are scheduled from 8:20 a.m. to 3:25 p.m.

Saint Xavier will start a new school year

Fort Riley troop numbers are at full house strength right now but in&nbsp; the summer of 2026 there will be a lot of departures. That was a message from Geary County Commissioner Keith Ascher following a recent Military Advisory Committee meeting. Ascher said in the summer of 2026 one brigade of troops would probably be left a Fort Riley. "It's going to be pretty thin."

Ascher noted that National Guard training with different rotations through Fort Riley would probably help.

On another topic the Fort Riley Apple Day celebration and the Oktoberfest celebration in Junction City are currently scheduled on the same day, October 5.

There will also be a Junction City leadership tour of Fort Riley in September.

Fort Riley troop numbers are at full house strength right now but in&nbsp; the summer of 2026 there will be a lot of departures. That was a message from Geary County Commissioner Keith Ascher following a recent Military Advisory Committee meeting. Ascher said in the summer of 2026 one brigade of troops would probably be left a Fort Riley. "It's going to be pretty thin."Ascher noted that National Guard training with different rotations through Fort Riley would probably help.On another topic the Fort Riley Apple Day celebration and the Oktoberfest celebration in Junction City are currently scheduled on the same day, October 5.There will also be a Junction City leadership tour of Fort Riley in September.

Local