JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – Geary County Schools USD 475 is proud to announce that Junction City High School students&nbsp;D’Marion Swift, Alana Gaytan, Isabelle Thomas, Oliver Lucas, Sophia Mitchell and Nadia Anthony were recently honored for their artwork in the&nbsp;2025 Eastern Kansas Scholastic Art Awards presented by the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

More than 2,200 artworks were submitted across Eastern Kansas, with only 490 receiving honors. Overall, the Blue Jays earned one Gold Key honor, four Silver Key awards and had two honorable mention selections. Swift was not only awarded Gold Key for his drawing illustration title, The Light, but he also brought home Silver Key honors in painting. Other Silver Key honorees included&nbsp;Gaytan in editorial cartoon, Thomas in drawing illustration and Lucas in digital art. Finally, Mitchell and Anthony claimed honorable mention accolades in editorial cartoon and comic art, respectively.

All Gold and Silver Key art pieces&nbsp;will be on display and featured in the Mark Arts Youth Gallery&nbsp;and School of Creativity Gallery in Wichita from February 7 through March 29. The galleries are free and open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Students, families and community members are also invited to attend the 2025 Eastern Kansas Scholastic Opening Celebration to view the Art Awards Exhibition at Mark Arts in Wichita on Friday, Feb. 7, beginning at 4 p.m.

The Scholastic Art Awards is one of the oldest and most prestigious national art competitions for high school students across the nation. It is the largest and longest-running recognition program for young artists in the United States.&nbsp;The contest provides an opportunity for student artists to be recognized, exhibited, and awarded scholarships. It is considered a huge honor for students to receive recognition as each piece is reviewed by a panel of art professionals based on the originality, technical skill, and emergence of a personal vision in their work.

• D’Marion Swift: Drawing Illustration, The Light

•&nbsp;D’Marion Swift: Painting, Dissolve

• Alana Gaytan: Editorial Cartoon sponsored by The Herb Block Foundation, #MMIW

•&nbsp;Isabelle Thomas: Drawing Illustration, Just One More

Oliver Lucas: Digital Art, Completely Giving Up

• Sophia Mitchell: Editorial Cartoon sponsored by The Herb Block Foundation, Who am I

•&nbsp;Nadia Anthony: Comic Art, Growth

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738261160996.jpeg" alt="D’Marion Swift: Drawing Illustration, The Light" />
 <figcaption>D’Marion Swift: Drawing Illustration, The Light</figcaption>
 </figure>JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – Geary County Schools USD 475 is proud to announce that Junction City High School students&nbsp;D’Marion Swift, Alana Gaytan, Isabelle Thomas, Oliver Lucas, Sophia Mitchell and Nadia Anthony were recently honored for their artwork in the&nbsp;2025 Eastern Kansas Scholastic Art Awards presented by the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers.&nbsp;&nbsp;More than 2,200 artworks were submitted across Eastern Kansas, with only 490 receiving honors. Overall, the Blue Jays earned one Gold Key honor, four Silver Key awards and had two honorable mention selections. Swift was not only awarded Gold Key for his drawing illustration title, The Light, but he also brought home Silver Key honors in painting. Other Silver Key honorees included&nbsp;Gaytan in editorial cartoon, Thomas in drawing illustration and Lucas in digital art. Finally, Mitchell and Anthony claimed honorable mention accolades in editorial cartoon and comic art, respectively.All Gold and Silver Key art pieces&nbsp;will be on display and featured in the Mark Arts Youth Gallery&nbsp;and School of Creativity Gallery in Wichita from February 7 through March 29. The galleries are free and open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Students, families and community members are also invited to attend the 2025 Eastern Kansas Scholastic Opening Celebration to view the Art Awards Exhibition at Mark Arts in Wichita on Friday, Feb. 7, beginning at 4 p.m.The Scholastic Art Awards is one of the oldest and most prestigious national art competitions for high school students across the nation. It is the largest and longest-running recognition program for young artists in the United States.&nbsp;The contest provides an opportunity for student artists to be recognized, exhibited, and awarded scholarships. It is considered a huge honor for students to receive recognition as each piece is reviewed by a panel of art professionals based on the originality, technical skill, and emergence of a personal vision in their work.Gold Key Award• D’Marion Swift: Drawing Illustration, The LightSilver Key Award•&nbsp;D’Marion Swift: Painting, Dissolve• Alana Gaytan: Editorial Cartoon sponsored by The Herb Block Foundation, #MMIW•&nbsp;Isabelle Thomas: Drawing Illustration, Just One MoreOliver Lucas: Digital Art, Completely Giving UpHonorable Mention• Sophia Mitchell: Editorial Cartoon sponsored by The Herb Block Foundation, Who am I•&nbsp;Nadia Anthony: Comic Art, Growth

Junction City High School Students Earn Honors in Art

Geary County 4-H Club Day will be held Saturday, February 8th&nbsp;at the First Presbyterian Church in Junction City.&nbsp; Events will begin at 8:00am and are scheduled to be completed with an awards ceremony around 11:30am.&nbsp; 

4-H members will be presenting speeches, music numbers, drama programs, and parliamentary procedure demonstrations.&nbsp; Members will also be able to participate in photography and family and consumer sciences judging contests throughout the morning.

Everyone is welcome to attend this great event and show your support of the youth in Geary County 4-H.&nbsp; 

If you have questions, contact Kyler Langvardt at the Geary County K-State Research and Extension Office at 785-238-4161.

Geary County 4-H Club Day will be held Saturday, February 8th&nbsp;at the First Presbyterian Church in Junction City.&nbsp; Events will begin at 8:00am and are scheduled to be completed with an awards ceremony around 11:30am.&nbsp; 4-H members will be presenting speeches, music numbers, drama programs, and parliamentary procedure demonstrations.&nbsp; Members will also be able to participate in photography and family and consumer sciences judging contests throughout the morning.Everyone is welcome to attend this great event and show your support of the youth in Geary County 4-H.&nbsp; If you have questions, contact Kyler Langvardt at the Geary County K-State Research and Extension Office at 785-238-4161.

Geary County 4-H Club Day is Saturday, February 8th

RILEY COUNTY —A Riley County man was hospitalized and later arrested after a Wednesday afternoon crash.

Just after 5p.m., Rontavius Banks, 28, Ogden, lost control of a vehicle&nbsp;due to unsafe speed for road conditions in the 700 block of Wildcat Creek Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;

EMS transported Banks to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Banks was later arrested for driving while suspended.&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY —A Riley County man was hospitalized and later arrested after a Wednesday afternoon crash.Just after 5p.m., Rontavius Banks, 28, Ogden, lost control of a vehicle&nbsp;due to unsafe speed for road conditions in the 700 block of Wildcat Creek Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;EMS transported Banks to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Banks was later arrested for driving while suspended.&nbsp;

Riley County man arrested after crash

Homecoming week was full of activities for the St. Francis Xavier school students! 

They participated in dress up days, held a pep rally, hosted a guest speaker, voted on the royal court, and ended the festivities with a dance.

Congratulations to the 2025 Homecoming king and queen Lathan Ngiraidong and Danika Ellis!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738192528652.jpeg" alt="Homecoming court photo courtesy of St. Francis Xavier School marketing communications class.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pictured from left to right: Joshua Welter, Madison Deacon, Lathan Ngiraidong, Danika Ellis, Miguel Weber, Dana Davis, and Elija Le'A. Not pictured:" />
 <figcaption>Homecoming court photo courtesy of St. Francis Xavier School marketing communications class.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pictured from left to right: Joshua Welter, Madison Deacon, Lathan Ngiraidong, Danika Ellis, Miguel Weber, Dana Davis, and Elija Le'A. Not pictured:</figcaption>
 </figure>By Kristel JahnkeOffice of Recruitment and MarketingHomecoming week was full of activities for the St. Francis Xavier school students! They participated in dress up days, held a pep rally, hosted a guest speaker, voted on the royal court, and ended the festivities with a dance.Congratulations to the 2025 Homecoming king and queen Lathan Ngiraidong and Danika Ellis!

Saint Francis Xavier School celebrates Homecoming

&nbsp;Riley County police say Clayson Joyce, 22, of Manhattan was arrested on Tuesday at approximately 8:25 PM in the 400 block of N Main Street in Riley, Kansas.

The arrest is connected to a shooting that occurred on December 1, 2024, at approximately 5:47 a.m. in the 1800 block of Claflin Road. During the incident, three people sustained gunshot injuries.

Riley County Police Department’s (RCPD) License Plate Reader (LPR) cameras played a critical role in identifying Joyce’s vehicle, which was linked to the shooting. Officers located and apprehended Joyce without incident during the arrest.

Joyce was arrested on the probable cause offenses of twelve (12) counts of attempted murder in the 1st degree, two (2) counts of criminal discharge of a firearm into an occupied dwelling, criminal damage to property, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in city limits.

Total bond was set at&nbsp;$2,000,000. Joyce is currently confined at the Riley County Jail.

This is an ongoing investigation and police said that they will release additional information when it becomes available. Anyone with information can contact the RCPD at (785) 537-2112 or Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

&nbsp;Riley County police say Clayson Joyce, 22, of Manhattan was arrested on Tuesday at approximately 8:25 PM in the 400 block of N Main Street in Riley, Kansas.The arrest is connected to a shooting that occurred on December 1, 2024, at approximately 5:47 a.m. in the 1800 block of Claflin Road. During the incident, three people sustained gunshot injuries.Riley County Police Department’s (RCPD) License Plate Reader (LPR) cameras played a critical role in identifying Joyce’s vehicle, which was linked to the shooting. Officers located and apprehended Joyce without incident during the arrest.Joyce was arrested on the probable cause offenses of twelve (12) counts of attempted murder in the 1st degree, two (2) counts of criminal discharge of a firearm into an occupied dwelling, criminal damage to property, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in city limits.Total bond was set at&nbsp;$2,000,000. Joyce is currently confined at the Riley County Jail.This is an ongoing investigation and police said that they will release additional information when it becomes available. Anyone with information can contact the RCPD at (785) 537-2112 or Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.<figure>
 <img src="https://ads.empowerlocal.co/adserve/;MID=181918;type=e959fb862;placementID=1919173;setID=524574;channelID=0;CID=0;BID=520802051;TAID=0;place=0;rnd=4539464328;psrtype=api;referrer=https%3A%2F%2Flittleapplepost.com%2Fposts%2Fc4ad3d9b-304f-414e-a64a-b74b70e6594a;mt=1738191945784106;hc=04ca937619d7b614fa33c415442a3e41b8d3d1eb" alt="" />
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RCPD reports an arrest in connection with a shooting 

Joe and Sheila Markley are retiring as the Co-Directors of the C.L. Hoover Opera House in Junction City.&nbsp;

The Opera House is having a farewell, retirement reception for the Markley's on Thursday, Jan. 30, from 3:00-5:00 p.m. in the Walker Lobby.&nbsp;

Joe and Sheila Markley are retiring as the Co-Directors of the C.L. Hoover Opera House in Junction City.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738187386665.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Opera House is having a farewell, retirement reception for the Markley's on Thursday, Jan. 30, from 3:00-5:00 p.m. in the Walker Lobby.&nbsp;

C.L. Hoover Opera House to host retirement party for Joe and Sheila Markley

Manhattan, Kan. – January 29, 2025 – INTRUST Bank has welcomed Tony Parker as Market President for Manhattan and Junction City. Parker brings more than 17 years of banking experience, with an extensive background in commercial and agricultural lending.

“I have great confidence in Tony’s leadership and ability to connect with our customers and continue the great work that has been established in Manhattan and Junction City by our team,” said Kurt Fischer, Regional Market President.&nbsp;

A longtime Manhattan resident, Parker is familiar with the unique financial needs of the individuals, families, and businesses across the area and is passionate about creating long-term relationships and connections within the community.

“I’m energized by helping others,” Parker said. “I treasure the relationships that I’m able to build with customers and other associates. My goal is to ensure we’re doing everything we can to support our customers through both easy and challenging times.&nbsp;

Parker is a Kansas State University graduate. He is a member of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, serves as a trustee for the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation and is on the Council of Education for Manhattan Catholic Schools.&nbsp;

Manhattan, Kan. – January 29, 2025 – INTRUST Bank has welcomed Tony Parker as Market President for Manhattan and Junction City. Parker brings more than 17 years of banking experience, with an extensive background in commercial and agricultural lending.“I have great confidence in Tony’s leadership and ability to connect with our customers and continue the great work that has been established in Manhattan and Junction City by our team,” said Kurt Fischer, Regional Market President.&nbsp;A longtime Manhattan resident, Parker is familiar with the unique financial needs of the individuals, families, and businesses across the area and is passionate about creating long-term relationships and connections within the community.“I’m energized by helping others,” Parker said. “I treasure the relationships that I’m able to build with customers and other associates. My goal is to ensure we’re doing everything we can to support our customers through both easy and challenging times.&nbsp;Parker is a Kansas State University graduate. He is a member of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, serves as a trustee for the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation and is on the Council of Education for Manhattan Catholic Schools.&nbsp;

Parker Joins INTRUST Bank as Market President

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.

Christopher James, Cancelled/suspended/revoked drivers license, arrested 01/27

Allyssa Bailey, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Driving while suspended, Interference with LEO, Falsely report information intending to obstruct, Possession of depressant, Forgery, Making or altering a written instrument, Identity fraud, Replicate document with personal info with intent to deceive, Identity theft, Defraud to receive benefits &lt; $100,000, Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, arrested 01/27

Shampaine Muldrow, Outside warrant, arrested 01/28

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/2025/1/1738182571585.jpeg" alt="Marco Rocha, Outside warrant (Two counts), arrested 01/27" />
 <figcaption>Marco Rocha, Outside warrant (Two counts), arrested 01/27</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738182607314.jpeg" alt="Phillip White, Theft-all other, arrested 01/27" />
 <figcaption>Phillip White, Theft-all other, arrested 01/27</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738182641235.jpeg" alt="Christina Murphy, Aggravated assault, Use of a deadly weapon, Criminal threat, arrested 01/27" />
 <figcaption>Christina Murphy, Aggravated assault, Use of a deadly weapon, Criminal threat, arrested 01/27</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738182686182.jpeg" alt="June Meredith, Falsely reporting a crime, Violation of a protective order, arrested 01/28" />
 <figcaption>June Meredith, Falsely reporting a crime, Violation of a protective order, arrested 01/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738182896122.jpeg" alt="Miya Harlin, Traffic contraband into correctional facility, Possession of controlled substance, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, arrested 01/28" />
 <figcaption>Miya Harlin, Traffic contraband into correctional facility, Possession of controlled substance, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, arrested 01/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738182973375.jpeg" alt="Kasey Nations, Probation violation, arrested 01/28" />
 <figcaption>Kasey Nations, Probation violation, arrested 01/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738183008722.jpeg" alt="Marco Torres, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Traffic contraband into correctional facility, Identity theft, Misrepresent to cause economic or bodily harm &lt; $100,000, Criminal use of a financial card without consent of owner (less than $1,000), Theft &lt; $1,500 pocket picking, arrested 01/28&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Marco Torres, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Traffic contraband into correctional facility, Identity theft, Misrepresent to cause economic or bodily harm &lt; $100,000, Criminal use of a financial card without consent of owner (less than $1,000), Theft &lt; $1,500 pocket picking, arrested 01/28&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738183176123.jpeg" alt="Bard Ditto, Outside warrant, Probation violation, arrested 01/28" />
 <figcaption>Bard Ditto, Outside warrant, Probation violation, arrested 01/28</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Christopher James, Cancelled/suspended/revoked drivers license, arrested 01/27Allyssa Bailey, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Driving while suspended, Interference with LEO, Falsely report information intending to obstruct, Possession of depressant, Forgery, Making or altering a written instrument, Identity fraud, Replicate document with personal info with intent to deceive, Identity theft, Defraud to receive benefits &lt; $100,000, Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, arrested 01/27Shampaine Muldrow, Outside warrant, arrested 01/28Recent 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 Jan. 28-29

Fresh off citizen vitriol for rising property taxes during their 2024 campaigns, a fortified Republican super-majority Kansas Legislature began loading their prized horses into the starting gate of this year’s Property Tax Derby.

Kansas GOP leaders eye this as the final jewel in the coveted Tax Cut Triple Crown – sales, income, and property. In previous sessions, they successfully bet on both Governor Kelly’s food tax horse (Axe The Tax) and their income tax horse (Trickle Down) sired from the Brownback stud farm.

Elected jockeys have three levers at their disposal to determine the pace of property taxes in the derby. The State totally controls the first lever (assessments) and oversees county appraisals for the second lever (property values) which are really at the mercy of market forces. The most powerful lever (mill levy) is nearly all in the grip of local government.

Property taxes fund 60%-100% of local government budgets, but less than 1% of state government. Property tax revenue is the lifeblood for local services such as schools, police, roads, parks, transit, libraries, etc. with some hemorrhaging. Conversely, they mean virtually nothing to the State budget.

With that in mind, let’s handicap three GOP entrants while Democrats snooze in the barn.

· “Cap The Tax” (SCR 1603) – Senate Taxation Farms first entry is a Constitutional Amendment capping taxable property values at 3% annually thus artificially controlling property value – not the free market. This well-intentioned concept has all sorts of unintended consequences. Said cap is lifted for home sales and improvements causing vastly different taxable values on the same block while discouraging mobility and investment for an even tighter housing market. Local budgets get squeezed by inflation over 3% but still could effectively make themselves whole by pulling their prodigious mill levy lever. Ultimately, voters must approve if it gets that far. Given the House killed a 4% cap last year, this horse may get stuck on the rail again.

· “Building Biscuit” (SB 35) - Senate Taxation Farms’ second entry would repeal the State’s paltry 1.5 mill levy that goes towards deferred maintenance of state buildings. This is the most local government-friendly entry because it does not jeopardize local revenue. Building maintenance would shift to the State’s general fund made up of income and sales tax. Without a dedicated mill levy, universities are rightfully nervous their proverbial can could be kicked down the road. Homeowners would save a whopping $22 annually on a $200K house. This horse has the best legs for a stretch run but little return for wagers.

· “School Levy Sugar” (HB 2011) – The entry from House Taxation Stables has a similar profile to Building Biscuit. Instead of building maintenance, 1.5 mills are wiped from the State’s 20 mills for local schools. Relief for homeowners is just as paltry. Ostensibly, local schools would be made whole through the State’s sales and income taxes. But it puts their can on the line instead of universities. Without Supreme Court oversight for a school funding case, this horse is drifting a little wide at the turn.

If these don’t excite everybody, look for late entries like last year’s prized thoroughbred – exempting residential value from the State’s 20 mill school levy, expanding the homestead exemption, OR the ultimate horse trade – Medicaid expansion.

To paraphrase the State’s highest-paid employee (Bill Self), don’t worry about the mules, keep loading the wagon and don’t crash local services.

Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka.

Fresh off citizen vitriol for rising property taxes during their 2024 campaigns, a fortified Republican super-majority Kansas Legislature began loading their prized horses into the starting gate of this year’s Property Tax Derby.Kansas GOP leaders eye this as the final jewel in the coveted Tax Cut Triple Crown – sales, income, and property. In previous sessions, they successfully bet on both Governor Kelly’s food tax horse (Axe The Tax) and their income tax horse (Trickle Down) sired from the Brownback stud farm.Elected jockeys have three levers at their disposal to determine the pace of property taxes in the derby. The State totally controls the first lever (assessments) and oversees county appraisals for the second lever (property values) which are really at the mercy of market forces. The most powerful lever (mill levy) is nearly all in the grip of local government.Property taxes fund 60%-100% of local government budgets, but less than 1% of state government. Property tax revenue is the lifeblood for local services such as schools, police, roads, parks, transit, libraries, etc. with some hemorrhaging. Conversely, they mean virtually nothing to the State budget.With that in mind, let’s handicap three GOP entrants while Democrats snooze in the barn.· “Cap The Tax” (SCR 1603) – Senate Taxation Farms first entry is a Constitutional Amendment capping taxable property values at 3% annually thus artificially controlling property value – not the free market. This well-intentioned concept has all sorts of unintended consequences. Said cap is lifted for home sales and improvements causing vastly different taxable values on the same block while discouraging mobility and investment for an even tighter housing market. Local budgets get squeezed by inflation over 3% but still could effectively make themselves whole by pulling their prodigious mill levy lever. Ultimately, voters must approve if it gets that far. Given the House killed a 4% cap last year, this horse may get stuck on the rail again.· “Building Biscuit” (SB 35) - Senate Taxation Farms’ second entry would repeal the State’s paltry 1.5 mill levy that goes towards deferred maintenance of state buildings. This is the most local government-friendly entry because it does not jeopardize local revenue. Building maintenance would shift to the State’s general fund made up of income and sales tax. Without a dedicated mill levy, universities are rightfully nervous their proverbial can could be kicked down the road. Homeowners would save a whopping $22 annually on a $200K house. This horse has the best legs for a stretch run but little return for wagers.· “School Levy Sugar” (HB 2011) – The entry from House Taxation Stables has a similar profile to Building Biscuit. Instead of building maintenance, 1.5 mills are wiped from the State’s 20 mills for local schools. Relief for homeowners is just as paltry. Ostensibly, local schools would be made whole through the State’s sales and income taxes. But it puts their can on the line instead of universities. Without Supreme Court oversight for a school funding case, this horse is drifting a little wide at the turn.If these don’t excite everybody, look for late entries like last year’s prized thoroughbred – exempting residential value from the State’s 20 mill school levy, expanding the homestead exemption, OR the ultimate horse trade – Medicaid expansion.To paraphrase the State’s highest-paid employee (Bill Self), don’t worry about the mules, keep loading the wagon and don’t crash local services.---Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka.

Handicapping the Kansas Property Tax Derby

The need for a major upgrade or new detention center was one focus of the Geary County Commission and the County Public Building Commission this week.

New Sheriff Nate Boeckman said, "I do believe this is definitely a huge priority moving forward. It is my belief that the jail needs a lot of work."

For some time officials have focused on the project. In April of 202 4 some possible options were mentioned for financing a project. They included general obligation bonds that might have to go to an election, G.O. bonds which could be retired by sales tax revenues, OR having the Public Building Commission handle the project. No decisions have been made on funding.

This week during discussion there was support for providing tours of the jail for the public which could show the need. The current jail has 189 beds but many of those cannot be used. The average daily census is between 90 and 100 inmates.

The need for a major upgrade or new detention center was one focus of the Geary County Commission and the County Public Building Commission this week.New Sheriff Nate Boeckman said, "I do believe this is definitely a huge priority moving forward. It is my belief that the jail needs a lot of work."For some time officials have focused on the project. In April of 202 4 some possible options were mentioned for financing a project. They included general obligation bonds that might have to go to an election, G.O. bonds which could be retired by sales tax revenues, OR having the Public Building Commission handle the project. No decisions have been made on funding.This week during discussion there was support for providing tours of the jail for the public which could show the need. The current jail has 189 beds but many of those cannot be used. The average daily census is between 90 and 100 inmates.

Jail receives attention of public offficials

MANHATTAN — Get ready for some unique family fun with The Aluminum Show, the next event in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">McCain Performance Series</a>, at 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2. &nbsp;This showbrings the material, the music and the artists together on stage in a creation combining visual theater, dance and humor into a multisensory experience.

This is the story of one man's journey to a parallel universe — a futuristic planet made entirely of aluminum. Aluminum pipes come to life before the audience's eyes, transforming into imaginary, mysterious and playful characters. The new show was written and directed by Lior Kalfo, the creator of the internationally successful productions "Vocal People," "Fantasy" and "Glow." 

.Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">mccain.k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or at the ticket office in the McCain lobby from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays. Tickets are also available by phone at 785-532-6428 during the same hours. Tickets for youth 17 and younger are half price for this show. Discounted tickets to this show are also available for K-State faculty and staff, individuals 62 and older, and members of the military. Original IDs will be required to obtain discounts — third-party, photocopied or web-based IDs are not accepted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

MANHATTAN — Get ready for some unique family fun with The Aluminum Show, the next event in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">McCain Performance Series</a>, at 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2. &nbsp;This showbrings the material, the music and the artists together on stage in a creation combining visual theater, dance and humor into a multisensory experience. This is the story of one man's journey to a parallel universe — a futuristic planet made entirely of aluminum. Aluminum pipes come to life before the audience's eyes, transforming into imaginary, mysterious and playful characters. The new show was written and directed by Lior Kalfo, the creator of the internationally successful productions "Vocal People," "Fantasy" and "Glow." .Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">mccain.k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or at the ticket office in the McCain lobby from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays. Tickets are also available by phone at 785-532-6428 during the same hours. Tickets for youth 17 and younger are half price for this show. Discounted tickets to this show are also available for K-State faculty and staff, individuals 62 and older, and members of the military. Original IDs will be required to obtain discounts — third-party, photocopied or web-based IDs are not accepted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

See The Aluminum Show at McCain Auditorium

Nicholas Throckmorton was recognized Wednesday in Jim Clark's Chevrolet showroom as the JC Breakfast Optimist Club's Junction City High School Student of the Month.&nbsp; Nicholas is a senior at JCHS, who takes pictures of athletic events for the PowWow Yearbook. He has a social media page titled Dream, Laugh, Imagine (DLI). 

Nicholas plans to attend Butler County Community College or Kansas State University upon graduation from JCHS and will&nbsp; focus on sports media. Sabrina Reiswig nominated Nicholas then the Junior Optimist Club at JCHS selected Nicholas for the recognition based on the statements in The Optimist Creed.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738167403842.jpeg" alt="Pictured left to right are Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President; Morgan Nabus, JCHS Junior Optimist International (JOI) Club President; Nicholas and Ricardo Gutierrez, JC Breakfast Optimist Club Facilitator for the JCHS JOI Club.&nbsp;Nicholas received a $25.00 gift certificate from JC's BBQ &amp; Grill and a framed certificate from the JC Breakfast Optimist Club.&nbsp; &nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Pictured left to right are Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President; Morgan Nabus, JCHS Junior Optimist International (JOI) Club President; Nicholas and Ricardo Gutierrez, JC Breakfast Optimist Club Facilitator for the JCHS JOI Club.&nbsp;Nicholas received a $25.00 gift certificate from JC's BBQ &amp; Grill and a framed certificate from the JC Breakfast Optimist Club.&nbsp; &nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dr. Ferrell MillerJC Breakfast ClubNicholas Throckmorton was recognized Wednesday in Jim Clark's Chevrolet showroom as the JC Breakfast Optimist Club's Junction City High School Student of the Month.&nbsp; Nicholas is a senior at JCHS, who takes pictures of athletic events for the PowWow Yearbook. He has a social media page titled Dream, Laugh, Imagine (DLI). Nicholas plans to attend Butler County Community College or Kansas State University upon graduation from JCHS and will&nbsp; focus on sports media. Sabrina Reiswig nominated Nicholas then the Junior Optimist Club at JCHS selected Nicholas for the recognition based on the statements in The Optimist Creed.&nbsp; &nbsp;

JC Breakfast Optimist Club JCHS Student of the Month

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) announced this week that the 2025 application period for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks is now open.&nbsp;

SUN&nbsp;Bucks, previously called Summer EBT in Kansas, is a federal program administered by DCF that provides a one-time benefit of $120 per year for each eligible school-aged child to help offset the cost of groceries over the summer.

“Children and teenagers need consistent access to healthy foods to grow and thrive, and summer is a time when many of them lose access to the healthy meals they receive at school,”&nbsp;said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.&nbsp;“SUN&nbsp;Bucks can help fill the gap by providing families a small boost with helping to put nutritious food on their tables.”

Many families will automatically get the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefit without needing to apply. Households with an eligible child who can be identified by DCF will receive a letter from DCF in January 2025 notifying them that their child is eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be added​&nbsp;to an existing household Kansas Benefits Card (also known as an EBT card) or loaded onto a Kansas Benefits Card and mailed to their home in April.&nbsp;

If a household&nbsp;​did not receive a letter from DCF in January regarding&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks eligibility, and they believe their child is eligible, they will need to apply.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks applications will be accepted from Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, through 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025. Families will need to use their existing DCF self-service account or create an account to apply through the DCF online self-service portal,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcfapp.kees.ks.gov%2Fapspssp%2FsspNonMed.portal/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/YW-N8YJ1xna10z8YLKVpcAmM6Ua4e1IlVx5FQ5v22bM=389">dcfapp.kees.ks.gov</a>. Benefits will be issued beginning in April 2025.

Eligibility:Children may be eligible for the program if:

Children in the custody of the DCF Secretary and enrolled in a Kansas school are eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks. Relatives, non-related kin, and foster homes will need to submit a&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks application for children in their care after April 1, 2025, to ensure the benefit is issued to the correct address. For any applications submitted after April 1,&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be issued once the child has been determined eligible.

In 2024, the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks program provided more than $15 million in benefits to 127,202 Kansas children. Learn more about&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2Fservices%2Fees%2FPages%2FFood%2Fsunbucks.aspx/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/tpaexBdscF91YmpD1rhbTlMwYsvLei-jTMl0w77dQlo=389">SUNBucks.dcf.ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738161277873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) announced this week that the 2025 application period for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks is now open.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks, previously called Summer EBT in Kansas, is a federal program administered by DCF that provides a one-time benefit of $120 per year for each eligible school-aged child to help offset the cost of groceries over the summer.“Children and teenagers need consistent access to healthy foods to grow and thrive, and summer is a time when many of them lose access to the healthy meals they receive at school,”&nbsp;said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.&nbsp;“SUN&nbsp;Bucks can help fill the gap by providing families a small boost with helping to put nutritious food on their tables.”Many families will automatically get the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefit without needing to apply. Households with an eligible child who can be identified by DCF will receive a letter from DCF in January 2025 notifying them that their child is eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be added​&nbsp;to an existing household Kansas Benefits Card (also known as an EBT card) or loaded onto a Kansas Benefits Card and mailed to their home in April.&nbsp;If a household&nbsp;​did not receive a letter from DCF in January regarding&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks eligibility, and they believe their child is eligible, they will need to apply.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks applications will be accepted from Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, through 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025. Families will need to use their existing DCF self-service account or create an account to apply through the DCF online self-service portal,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcfapp.kees.ks.gov%2Fapspssp%2FsspNonMed.portal/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/YW-N8YJ1xna10z8YLKVpcAmM6Ua4e1IlVx5FQ5v22bM=389">dcfapp.kees.ks.gov</a>. Benefits will be issued beginning in April 2025.Eligibility:Children may be eligible for the program if:<ul>
 <li>The child attends a Kansas school offering the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Program, and the household income meets the requirements for free or reduced-price school meals at any point since July 2024.</li>
 </ul>OR<ul>
 <li>The school-aged child (7-17 years old) lives in a household where someone has received Food Assistance (SNAP) or TANF Cash Assistance at any point since July 2024.</li>
 </ul>Children in the custody of the DCF Secretary and enrolled in a Kansas school are eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks. Relatives, non-related kin, and foster homes will need to submit a&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks application for children in their care after April 1, 2025, to ensure the benefit is issued to the correct address. For any applications submitted after April 1,&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be issued once the child has been determined eligible.In 2024, the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks program provided more than $15 million in benefits to 127,202 Kansas children. Learn more about&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2Fservices%2Fees%2FPages%2FFood%2Fsunbucks.aspx/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/tpaexBdscF91YmpD1rhbTlMwYsvLei-jTMl0w77dQlo=389">SUNBucks.dcf.ks.gov</a>.

DCF: 2025 SUN Bucks Application Period Now Open

The Junction City Blue Jays beat Blue Valley Northwest High School on Tuesday night in Overland Park 56-51.

The Huskies won the opening tip and scored the first basket of the game, but Junction City led by three, 15-12, at the end of the first quarter.

The second quarter featured the Huskies going on a run and the Blue Jays trailing by four, 30-26 at halftime.

The third quarter saw the Huskies get their largest lead of the game, nine, but late in the third quarter, the Blue Jays went on an 8-0 run to tie the game at 36, before Blue Valley Northwest took a four-point lead 43-39 into the fourth quarter.

After trailing for the whole second and third quarters, the Blue Jays went on another run in the fourth quarter and eventually took a 50-47 lead over the Huskies and held on to win 56-51.

Junction City had three players in double-digits on the night. Senior Jackson Austin had 16, Junior Lovell Autry also had 16, and senior Larkin Turner added 10 points.

For the second straight year, the Blue Jays knock off Blue Valley Northwest. With the win, Junction City goes to 9-2 on the season.

Next up for the Blue Jays is a Centennial league matchup on Thursday at Washburn Rural.

By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Junction City Blue Jays beat Blue Valley Northwest High School on Tuesday night in Overland Park 56-51.The Huskies won the opening tip and scored the first basket of the game, but Junction City led by three, 15-12, at the end of the first quarter.The second quarter featured the Huskies going on a run and the Blue Jays trailing by four, 30-26 at halftime.The third quarter saw the Huskies get their largest lead of the game, nine, but late in the third quarter, the Blue Jays went on an 8-0 run to tie the game at 36, before Blue Valley Northwest took a four-point lead 43-39 into the fourth quarter.After trailing for the whole second and third quarters, the Blue Jays went on another run in the fourth quarter and eventually took a 50-47 lead over the Huskies and held on to win 56-51.Junction City had three players in double-digits on the night. Senior Jackson Austin had 16, Junior Lovell Autry also had 16, and senior Larkin Turner added 10 points.For the second straight year, the Blue Jays knock off Blue Valley Northwest. With the win, Junction City goes to 9-2 on the season.Next up for the Blue Jays is a Centennial league matchup on Thursday at Washburn Rural.

Blue Jays beat Blue Valley Northwest, improve to 9-2

January 31 ( Friday ) is the deadline for nonprofit agencies and organizations to apply for United Way allocation funding in Junction City and Geary County.

United Way Executive Director Nichole Mader said recently that 12-15 volunteers are being sought. There will be four panels with each panel interviewing agencies and making recommendations on funding.

Agencies can go to the United Way web site to apply.

United way is also gearing up for the VITA ( Volunteer Income Tax Assistance ) program.

January 31 ( Friday ) is the deadline for nonprofit agencies and organizations to apply for United Way allocation funding in Junction City and Geary County.United Way Executive Director Nichole Mader said recently that 12-15 volunteers are being sought. There will be four panels with each panel interviewing agencies and making recommendations on funding.Agencies can go to the United Way web site to apply.United way is also gearing up for the VITA ( Volunteer Income Tax Assistance ) program.

Deadline for United Way allocation funding requests is nearing

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran – chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – on Tuesday issued the following statement after receiving confirmation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that there are no VA programs impacted by the federal funding pause:

“After my inquiry today, VA has confirmed that no direct benefits or assistance provided through grant partners is impacted by OMB's pause on federal funding. Veterans and their families, as well as the organizations that serve them, will continue to have access to the benefits, services and resources provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs. I appreciate the VA quickly providing answers to my questions and continuing the important programs that serve our veterans and their families.”

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran – chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – on Tuesday issued the following statement after receiving confirmation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that there are no VA programs impacted by the federal funding pause:“After my inquiry today, VA has confirmed that no direct benefits or assistance provided through grant partners is impacted by OMB's pause on federal funding. Veterans and their families, as well as the organizations that serve them, will continue to have access to the benefits, services and resources provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs. I appreciate the VA quickly providing answers to my questions and continuing the important programs that serve our veterans and their families.”

Moran: VA will not be impacted by federal funding pause

The Junction City Blue Jay varsity basketball team was in Dodge City last week playing in the 82nd Tournament of Champions. While in Dodge City, the Blue Jays visited Beeson Elementary School and read to the students.&nbsp;

* Photos courtesy of Junction City Assistant basketball coach Allan McFarland.&nbsp;

Junction City placed fourth in the Dodge City TOC and is 8-2 on the season.&nbsp;

The Junction City Blue Jay varsity basketball team was in Dodge City last week playing in the 82nd Tournament of Champions. While in Dodge City, the Blue Jays visited Beeson Elementary School and read to the students.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738093309326.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738093330061.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738093340566.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>* Photos courtesy of Junction City Assistant basketball coach Allan McFarland.&nbsp;Junction City placed fourth in the Dodge City TOC and is 8-2 on the season.&nbsp;

Blue Jays visit schools while playing in Dodge City TOC

The Geary County Sheriff's Department reports that Deputies arrested Allyssa Bailey of Junction City, KS in the 300 Block of West 6th St, on a Geary County District Court Warrant for Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (felony), Identity Theft, Identity Fraud, Forgery, Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (misdemeanor), Interference with Law Enforcement, Driving While License Suspended, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Display of License Plate.

The Geary County Sheriff's Department reports that Deputies arrested Allyssa Bailey of Junction City, KS in the 300 Block of West 6th St, on a Geary County District Court Warrant for Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (felony), Identity Theft, Identity Fraud, Forgery, Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (misdemeanor), Interference with Law Enforcement, Driving While License Suspended, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Display of License Plate.The arrest occurred Monday.

Authorities make a District Court Warrant arrest

The way veterans sign in online to check on benefits, prescriptions, and appointments is changing this year.  

Communications Chief for the VA Eastern Kansas Healthcare system Brian Stephens says previously veterans were able to sign in through various websites, some less secure than others 

"All the VA is requiring veterans to go in and make accounts through either of the two options, and from there they're guaranteed a more secure connection to their information, either the login.gov option or the id.me option," Stephens tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. 

Stephens says to file, veterans must go online and fill out forms, and take a picture of the front and back of their photo ID.  

However, Stephens says with the photos of the ID is where some veterans run into a problem 

"What we're seeing is a lot of veterans are having problems, if you have a Kansas ID for example, there's a hologram that's designed to deter criminals from taking a picture and stealing your identity," Stephens explains. "Well, that same safety feature causes problems for veterans who are trying to verify their identity through this process." 

Stephens says this change is solely for security, and isn't impacting veterans receiving benefits 

"This is just access to electronic health records or communication methods or to check on their benefits or apply for benefits they would need this sign in, but it does not change their ability to receive those benefits," Stephens says. 

Stephens says if you run into a problem setting up your accounts you can go in person to the VA offices in Leavenworth.  You can also attend in person workshops around the region.  

The next closest workshop is on February 21st in Platte City.   

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738091933362.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The way veterans sign in online to check on benefits, prescriptions, and appointments is changing this year. Communications Chief for the VA Eastern Kansas Healthcare system Brian Stephens says previously veterans were able to sign in through various websites, some less secure than others "All the VA is requiring veterans to go in and make accounts through either of the two options, and from there they're guaranteed a more secure connection to their information, either the login.gov option or the id.me option," Stephens tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. Stephens says to file, veterans must go online and fill out forms, and take a picture of the front and back of their photo ID. However, Stephens says with the photos of the ID is where some veterans run into a problem "What we're seeing is a lot of veterans are having problems, if you have a Kansas ID for example, there's a hologram that's designed to deter criminals from taking a picture and stealing your identity," Stephens explains. "Well, that same safety feature causes problems for veterans who are trying to verify their identity through this process." Stephens says this change is solely for security, and isn't impacting veterans receiving benefits "This is just access to electronic health records or communication methods or to check on their benefits or apply for benefits they would need this sign in, but it does not change their ability to receive those benefits," Stephens says. Stephens says if you run into a problem setting up your accounts you can go in person to the VA offices in Leavenworth. You can also attend in person workshops around the region. The next closest workshop is on February 21st in Platte City. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

VA advises about online changes for benefits

MANHATTAN, KAN.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Riley County Police Department is renewing its appeal for information regarding a potential witness in connection with an aggravated battery that occurred on the afternoon of Thursday, May 31, 2018.

Just after 1p.m. that day, a 15-year-old girl was attacked and beaten in the head with an object resembling a bat or pipe.

During the initial investigation, Officer Deutsch interviewed a man near the intersection of the Linear Trail and Pecan Circle, in the vicinity of what was then a Schwan’s Food Service delivery center. The witness was described as taller, possibly in his late 50s or early 60s, and drove a silver passenger car. This individual reported seeing a white male wearing a white shirt and carrying a pipe. The suspect was also described as having visible tattoos, particularly around the neck area.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the witness, the suspect was walking northeast on the Linear Trail toward S. Manhattan Avenue before turning around and walking southwest back toward Pecan Circle. This sighting occurred approximately 10 minutes prior to when Officer Deutsch arrived at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Authorities believe this witness may hold critical information that could aid in solving this case. Anyone with information about the incident, the suspect, or the potential witness is urged to come forward.

If you have any information, no matter how small it may seem, please contact the Riley County Police Department at 785-537-2112. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777 or 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

MANHATTAN, KAN.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Riley County Police Department is renewing its appeal for information regarding a potential witness in connection with an aggravated battery that occurred on the afternoon of Thursday, May 31, 2018.Just after 1p.m. that day, a 15-year-old girl was attacked and beaten in the head with an object resembling a bat or pipe.During the initial investigation, Officer Deutsch interviewed a man near the intersection of the Linear Trail and Pecan Circle, in the vicinity of what was then a Schwan’s Food Service delivery center. The witness was described as taller, possibly in his late 50s or early 60s, and drove a silver passenger car. This individual reported seeing a white male wearing a white shirt and carrying a pipe. The suspect was also described as having visible tattoos, particularly around the neck area.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the witness, the suspect was walking northeast on the Linear Trail toward S. Manhattan Avenue before turning around and walking southwest back toward Pecan Circle. This sighting occurred approximately 10 minutes prior to when Officer Deutsch arrived at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;Authorities believe this witness may hold critical information that could aid in solving this case. Anyone with information about the incident, the suspect, or the potential witness is urged to come forward.If you have any information, no matter how small it may seem, please contact the Riley County Police Department at 785-537-2112. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777 or 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

RCPD: Search continues for witnesses in 2018 attack on 15-year-old

The Geary County Historical Society announced that If you have photos, items or stories related to Black history in Geary County, join the museum and The Black History Trail of Geary County on Saturday, February 1st for a donation event. 

Items can be donated or loaned for the upcoming Black history exhibit space. Photos can be donated or scanned. Stories can be recorded

The Geary County Historical Society announced that If you have photos, items or stories related to Black history in Geary County, join the museum and The Black History Trail of Geary County on Saturday, February 1st for a donation event. Items can be donated or loaned for the upcoming Black history exhibit space. Photos can be donated or scanned. Stories can be recorded

Black History donation event will be held Saturday

<a href="mailto:jbklaudt@ksu.edu">By Jacob Klaudt</a> K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Non-irrigated cropland prices in Kansas rose 3.8% last year, while pasture and hay ground increased by approximately 2.7%, according to information in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agmanager.info/land-leasing/land-buying-valuing/kansas-land-values-book-2024">2024 Kansas Agricultural Land Values and Trends publication</a>&nbsp;released earlier this year.

Kansas State University farm economist Robin Reid said these figures point to land prices tapering off after many years of rapid growth, as much as 24% per year in some areas. With some regions of the state seeing decreases compared to 2023, Reid notes that land values may lower even more considering tightening margins and decreasing farm income.

“If we look at the state level, we are up just a little bit,” she said. “You will see in the book there are regions that have come down, but overall, I would say the market is starting to flatten and that land values are stabilizing, not continuing to increase at the rapid, unsustainable pace that they have in recent years.”

The cause of this stabilization: a lower profitability environment in the farm economy. Apart from cattle, producers are seeing lower commodity prices after a period of really high ones.

“Add that to relatively high input costs, and specifically, when you're looking at financing and interest rates, we're just at a point where the difference between income and expenses are super tight, creating difficulty for our farmers,” Reid said.

Regarding non-irrigated crop ground, Reid said there is drastic variation in land value between different areas. In southwest Kansas, for example, prices jumped 11-12%, likely influenced by the dairies and feedyards located in that area. Yet, the north-central region of Kansas experienced a drop.

“That was due to a large increase last year,” Reid said. “The north central region had the largest increase in land value in 2023, and then turn around in 2024 and have dropped off the most. I would say that's more of a balancing.”

On the other hand, eastern Kansas continues to grow in land value both for non-irrigated crop ground and pastureland, which can be attributed to such factors as urbanization, hunting pressure and the quality of ground compared to the rest of the state, Reid said.

“The northeast region had a 16% increase,” she said. “The average per acre value for non-irrigated ground is at $7,479 – the highest average value and most rapidly increasing in the state.”

Looking ahead, economic assistance will affect the land market in 2025, according to Reid. A continuing resolution passed through both sides of the U.S. legislature at the end of 2024 will afford producers $10 billion in direct payments, with additional payments possible in the name of disaster assistance in drought-impacted areas

“Those get based on planted acres that a farmer had in 2024, and farmers can look at anywhere from $30 to $40 an acre that is coming in the name of economic assistance,” Reid said. “Those will influence the land market and the cash rental rates in 2025. If we didn't have those support payments, I think we would see things coming down more than we probably will.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1561988751962.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:jbklaudt@ksu.edu">By Jacob Klaudt</a> K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. – Non-irrigated cropland prices in Kansas rose 3.8% last year, while pasture and hay ground increased by approximately 2.7%, according to information in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agmanager.info/land-leasing/land-buying-valuing/kansas-land-values-book-2024">2024 Kansas Agricultural Land Values and Trends publication</a>&nbsp;released earlier this year.Kansas State University farm economist Robin Reid said these figures point to land prices tapering off after many years of rapid growth, as much as 24% per year in some areas. With some regions of the state seeing decreases compared to 2023, Reid notes that land values may lower even more considering tightening margins and decreasing farm income.“If we look at the state level, we are up just a little bit,” she said. “You will see in the book there are regions that have come down, but overall, I would say the market is starting to flatten and that land values are stabilizing, not continuing to increase at the rapid, unsustainable pace that they have in recent years.”The cause of this stabilization: a lower profitability environment in the farm economy. Apart from cattle, producers are seeing lower commodity prices after a period of really high ones.“Add that to relatively high input costs, and specifically, when you're looking at financing and interest rates, we're just at a point where the difference between income and expenses are super tight, creating difficulty for our farmers,” Reid said.Regarding non-irrigated crop ground, Reid said there is drastic variation in land value between different areas. In southwest Kansas, for example, prices jumped 11-12%, likely influenced by the dairies and feedyards located in that area. Yet, the north-central region of Kansas experienced a drop.“That was due to a large increase last year,” Reid said. “The north central region had the largest increase in land value in 2023, and then turn around in 2024 and have dropped off the most. I would say that's more of a balancing.”On the other hand, eastern Kansas continues to grow in land value both for non-irrigated crop ground and pastureland, which can be attributed to such factors as urbanization, hunting pressure and the quality of ground compared to the rest of the state, Reid said.“The northeast region had a 16% increase,” she said. “The average per acre value for non-irrigated ground is at $7,479 – the highest average value and most rapidly increasing in the state.”Looking ahead, economic assistance will affect the land market in 2025, according to Reid. A continuing resolution passed through both sides of the U.S. legislature at the end of 2024 will afford producers $10 billion in direct payments, with additional payments possible in the name of disaster assistance in drought-impacted areas“Those get based on planted acres that a farmer had in 2024, and farmers can look at anywhere from $30 to $40 an acre that is coming in the name of economic assistance,” Reid said. “Those will influence the land market and the cash rental rates in 2025. If we didn't have those support payments, I think we would see things coming down more than we probably will.”

Land market starting to flatten, says K-State economist

The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasAssociationofCounties?__cft__[0]=AZWvp3vXteECf34AiWU_DoAGKiQNtSA9WjIYMlT73DKMcsJBbg3VhrPliifcfytGtoZHOh7ogSvsXPyMVo76VheK0U7jgWwFU_Yi1e69mjkfNybRAVWs3u2JysA3k1v6JA9X8MlRvlzRM4_kIMazPhvGbRLPfUzZsjFg8nlmMZ0XlrJd9P1y8nAt32FOijPzZfs&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas Association of Counties</a>&nbsp;have elected their 2025 Board of Directors. Geary County Director of Human Resources/Special Projects, Crystal Malchose (inside left), will serve as President; Rice County Commissioner, Terry David (right), will serve as Vice-President; Saline County Appraiser, Sean Robertson (outside left) will serve as Secretary; and Reno County Public Health Director, Karla Nichols (not pictured), will serve as Treasurer.

The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasAssociationofCounties?__cft__[0]=AZWvp3vXteECf34AiWU_DoAGKiQNtSA9WjIYMlT73DKMcsJBbg3VhrPliifcfytGtoZHOh7ogSvsXPyMVo76VheK0U7jgWwFU_Yi1e69mjkfNybRAVWs3u2JysA3k1v6JA9X8MlRvlzRM4_kIMazPhvGbRLPfUzZsjFg8nlmMZ0XlrJd9P1y8nAt32FOijPzZfs&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas Association of Counties</a>&nbsp;have elected their 2025 Board of Directors. Geary County Director of Human Resources/Special Projects, Crystal Malchose (inside left), will serve as President; Rice County Commissioner, Terry David (right), will serve as Vice-President; Saline County Appraiser, Sean Robertson (outside left) will serve as Secretary; and Reno County Public Health Director, Karla Nichols (not pictured), will serve as Treasurer.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738074670110.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Crystal Malchose elected KAC President

Geary County Commissioners will meet in executive session from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday. They will be interviewing candidates for the Convention and Visitors Bureau director position.

Geary County Commissioners will meet in executive session from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday. They will be interviewing candidates for the Convention and Visitors Bureau director position.

County will meet in executive session

Redoing the main electrical for the old portion of the hospital in Junction City is part of the plan at the Stormont Vail Flint Hills Campus. Geary County Public Building Commission members learned Monday changes are planned around the elevators by the electrical room. It will take 600 days to finish that $2.8 million project.

Redoing all the heating and cooling is under way in the facility, repairs are planned for the cooling tower and efforts are beginning to look at wastewater piping&nbsp; on the second and third floor of the Medical Arts building. It is not yet out for bid.

Initially $20 million was budgeted for the county for deferred maintenance at the hospital, but it is clear that will not be enough to meet needs. Beyond that total, costs would have to be considered by Stormont Vail.

Redoing the main electrical for the old portion of the hospital in Junction City is part of the plan at the Stormont Vail Flint Hills Campus. Geary County Public Building Commission members learned Monday changes are planned around the elevators by the electrical room. It will take 600 days to finish that $2.8 million project.Redoing all the heating and cooling is under way in the facility, repairs are planned for the cooling tower and efforts are beginning to look at wastewater piping&nbsp; on the second and third floor of the Medical Arts building. It is not yet out for bid.Initially $20 million was budgeted for the county for deferred maintenance at the hospital, but it is clear that will not be enough to meet needs. Beyond that total, costs would have to be considered by Stormont Vail.